The Wetumpka Herald 01-10-24

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Holtville High School basketball coach arrested Wilson was the head basketball coach at Holtville High School and was A virtual teacher at Elmore placed on adCounty School’s Edge program ministrative has been arrested and charged leave Jan. 13 with school employee distrib- according to Eluting obscene material to a stu- more County dent.

Schools superElmore County Sheriff Bill DALTON intendent RichMIDDLETON | THE HERALD Franklin said Emmanuel Andre ard Dennis.

Edgewood Academy’s Lindsey Brown, pictured with head coach Wilson 32, of the Montgomery had aplayer re- to WILSON Brad Starks,II,became first Edgewood“We basketball turned himself into authorities port,” Dennis reach the 2,000 point mark.

Tuesday afternoon. said. “We had a preliminary

By Cliff Williams Staff Writer

Edgewood’s Brown scores record-breaking 2,000th point

investigation and handed it off to the appropriate authorities.

He was also placed on administrative leave at that time.”

Dennis said school officials follow the same procedure when administrators receive a report of allegations against school staff and employees.

“Once we hand it over, we know very little about what is going on,” Dennis said. “We cooperate with authorities if necessary.”

Franklin said investigators with the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office have the alleged victim’s phone. Authorities collected Wilson’s phone as well.

“You could see a conversation between the two,” Franklin said. “Mr. Wilson is going to contend someone had the security code to his phone and he was not responsible. There is other information we can’t disclose now but I don’t think it’s beneficial to Mr. Wilson.”

JANUARY HAS BEEN ROUGH FOR TORNADOES IN

ELMORE COUNTY

Chamber holds luncheon

welcoming members

coaches that have helped me get to this point. I couldn’t have done any of Lindsey Brown just it without them, so I give keeps adding to her them all the credit. I know

By Cliff Williams already impressive athletic I’ve had a great career, but Staff Writer resume. you can’t get anywhere in The Edgewood Acadelife without great teamThe Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce held its my senior already has nine mates and coaches.” annual luncheon to install new officers and board state championships 2,000th point members for across the first timeBrown’s in a while Thursday. three sports, multiple came almost exactly The COVID-19 pandemic put a hamper ontwo gathplayer oferings the year after she but honors the chamberyears celebrated the reached successes of and is anbusiness SEC signee in the 1,000 point milestone. in Wetumpka. volleyball,“We but haven’t she recently Shetoreached 1,000 points been able do this for the last courecordedple one of the most on Dec. 29, 2021 against years,” chairperson Clay McConnell said. “Your impressive accomplishLakeside Academy. attendance is an indication people want to get back ments oftogether her highand school a sophomore thateach have these As opportunities to see career. season, she averaged 19.5 See and CHAMBER, In a 59-49 win over points led the Page Wild-A3 Calvary Christian on Dec. cats to their first ever state 27, Brown scored the championship. Last year, 2,00th point of her high averaging 16.5 points as a school basketball career. junior, she led the team to She is the only Edgean undefeated record and wood Academy athlete, back-to-back titles. boy or girl, to ever reach Now as a senior, she’s the milestone as she is scoring at a level she’s now the highest scorer in never seen. school history.

Through 21 games, “It feels great to reach she’s averaging 25 points the milestone, but it’s not per game and scored 28 in a journey by myself,” an area-opening win over Brown said. “I’ve had so See BROWN, Page B4 many great teammates and

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Wilson was released on a $6,000 bond 90 minutes after turning himself in according to the Elmore County Jail website.

Dennis said Wilson also coached other sports at Holtville schools including being the head track coach and assistant football coach.

Dennis said other staff would fill in for the duties of Wilson at Holtville while he is on administrative leave.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

I

t’s been a year since two EF2 tornadoes ripped through northern Elmore County and five years since an EF2 tornado tore through Wetumpka.

Police continue investigation, man no longer suspected

The three tornadoes each left a track of destruction.

A year after the Jan. 3, 2023 tornado struck Elmore CountyMembers and approaching the anniversary of the of the Jan. 12, 2023 and Jan. 19, 2019 tornadoes, Wetumpka ElmoreChamber CountyofEMA director

Keith Barnett talked about the damage, recovery and being prepared for the next storm or tornado.

“Preparation is key,” Barnett said. “With it we can greatly

See TORNADOES, Page A2

Commerce attend the chamber’s “A THE HERALD TasteFILE of |Our One mobile home in the Lightwood community was rolled over and destroyed by the EF2 tornado.

Home Town”

By Jake Arthur luncheon.

CLIFF WILLIAMS/

Chief Videographer

THE HERALD

Preparing for the next storm event

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor In recent years, there have been a rash of tornadoes affecting the East Central Alabama region, and Merry See STORM, Page B4

Police are still investigating the fatal shooting in the Wetumpka Walmart parking lot on Jan. 20.

Police were dispatched to the parking lot around 10:45 p.m. for a “shots fired” call.

Once there, they found Centell Winston, 42 of Tallassee, dead of a gunshot wound in the driver seat of his vehicle.

According to Wetumpka police chief Greg Benton, this was not a random shooting.

“This was not random, not a random FILE | THE HERALD act,” said traveled Benton.an“We believe vicThe Jan. 12, 2023 tornado estimated 14the miles tim and the perpetrator knew each other.” in Elmore County just two miles north of a track from ThisEF2 is twister the firsttracked homicide in Wetumpka nine days earlier.The across the state in over three years.

The last homicide that day but there was only one minor injury reported in in the city took place in 2018.

Elmore County.

“It’s not a good way to start out the new year,” said Benton.

Benton didn’t want to speculate on the

Daughter follows mother’s footsteps to DYW See SHOOTING, Page A3

me some guidance because she has been grams for senior girls. through it before herself. It helps me a lot.”

“DYW inspires high school senior girls Gigi is now the principal at Wetumpka to develop their full, individual potential There is a little bit of deja vu for Gigi Elementary while her daughter is a senior through a fun experience that highlights Hankins as her daughter Gracieculture competes at the the doting mother isThetheir accomplishments,” Reese said.

Staff Report schoolwide assembly at Holtville the school from that of high a school. shift inBut a positive direction.

High School. Elmore County Su- Distinguished school struggling mo- in school a 62 percent She said the program encourages young in the Alabama Young with low stepping some —experienced if nothing else, creatThe Alabama Association of perintendent Richard Dennis was program. rale, achievement and attendance decrease in discipline referrals,women to develop self-confidence and Women (DYW) ing and sharing memories.

Secondary School Principals in attendance for the presentation. to a school that strives for excel50 percent decrease Gracie was selected as this year’s “It is exciting to be able to sharein thechronicabilities to interview effectively, speak in (AASSP) named Holtville High “Kyle Futral is an exceptionlence. By collaborating with staff, absenteeism, percent increasepublic, perform on stage and build interperElmore County representative over the experience with her,” Gigi 7said.

“It’s the School principal Kyle Futral the al principal and issummer very proacmany theaschool’s were graduation rate,I think 33 percentsonal relationships.

— an honor Gigiofwon few yearsissues same but it in hasthe changed so much.

2022 Alabama High School Prin- tive and innovativeearlier in hisasthinkidentified and addressed. Futral’s increase CCR rate and a 20 per- “They are looking for the most well a teenager.

The mother-daughter I’m more nervous forinher because I know CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE HERALD cipal of the Year. ing and approachesteam to managing leadership style from of listening, cent increase ACTtoproficiency are now living the experience whatenis coming, but she isin going love it.” rounded person,” Reese said.

Gracie secondPrincipal from right, herschool,” motherDennis Gigi, said, TheHankins, High School ofandhis supporting, organizing in the five years. different points of couraging, view.

Mel Reese, wholast is co-chair of the local Since the inception of Alabama DYW third arewas greeted at a sendoff Gracie. She the from Year right award presented to tea Asforprincipal of Holtville High and challenging the staff and stu“I don’t think I could do DYW without DYW committee, said the DYW program more than 50 years ago few changes was selected to be Elmore at the See PRINCIPAL, Page A3 Futral on Friday, Jan. 28 County’s during a representative School, Futral hasher,” transformed dents,iscaused the school culture to FUTURAL Gracie said.

“She there to give is one of America’s oldest scholarship proSee FOOTSTEPS, Page B2 Alabama Distinguished Young Women’s Program next week.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Holtville’s Futral Alabama principal of the year

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Page A2 • Wednesday, January 10, 2024

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

The Wetumpka Herald

Obituaries VERONICA J. (LABRECHE) DEBUSK

Veronica J. (LaBreche) DeBusk passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2024, in Lawton, Oklahoma surrounded by family.

She was born February

15, 1951, to James and Esme LaBreche in Butte, Montana. Veronica graduated from Troy University with a Bachelorette Degree in accounting. She successfully ran her own accounting business. She

also supported her family in many states and countries as she moved with the family and husband, Andrew DeBusk, during his Air Force career. She is survived by her brothers and sisters, Jayne, Ter-

rence, Kevin, and Robin LaBreche; two sons, Steve Stinson of Elgin, Oklahoma and Alan DeBusk of Colorado Springs, Colorado; two grandchildren, Connor and Breanna; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Andrew DeBusk. A memorial service for Veronica will take place in the late spring of 2024. Any donations can be made to the Wounded DEBUSK Warrior Foundation.

Police Reports WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT JAN. 1 • Domestic violence was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

DEC. 31 • Domestic violence was reported on Chapel Lakes Loop.

DEC. 28 • Theft was reported on Coosa River Parkway.

• Domestic violence was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

DEC. 26 • Criminal mischief was reported on First Street.

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT JAN. 7 • A fight was reported on Cotton Ridge Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Corner Lane.

• Harassment was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Noble Road.

• Animal control was requested on Whatley Drive.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• A noise complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Notasulga Road.

JAN. 6 • An animal bite was reported on Friendship Road.

• A domestic incident was reported on Poplar Street.

JAN. 5 • Gunfire was reported on First Avenue.

• Gunfire was reported on Truman Street.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• A suspicious person was reported on Gen. Chappy James Street.

• Harassing communications was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Redden Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Whatley Drive.

• A Black male was arrested on Cotton Ridge Road.

• A hit and run motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Hillcrest Street.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Highway 14.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on James Street.

JAN. 3 • Assistance was given to another agency on West Butler Street.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Gilmer Avenue.

JAN. 2 • Assistance was given to a citizen on Lower Tuskegee

Road.

• Harassing communications was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Gilmer Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Honeysuckle Lane.

• A fight was reported on Hickory Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Tallassee Highway.

• A noise complaint was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• Robbery was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• Theft by deception was reported on Langley Street.

• Leaving the scene of a vehicle accident was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Friendship Road.

• Suspicious subjects were reported on Dixie Circle.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Seventh Street.

• A welfare check was conducted on Honeysuckle Lane.

• An assault was reported on Friendship Road.

• Harassment was reported on Evergreen Street.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Barnett Boulevard.

Not yet high school graduates but working in IT — sort of

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor Teenagers are known as being fairly tech savvy, especially when it comes to phones, gaming and computers. But at Elmore County Technical Center, students are taking that one step further and actually installing computer equipment.

The program allows them to learn real IT skills and also get a grade for it.

“The entire school is a lab,” IT instructor Ken Spivey said. “We do a lot of things here on this campus. We work on the cameras, projectors. The students install cables and devices, terminate cables.

If you’re working for Elmore County Schools as a computer technician this is what they would be doing.”

Spivey’s program is meant to give students an idea of what a real job as an IT technician is like. The students even installed a computer lab, running wiring throughout.

Other projects aren’t quite as large-scale but still just as important.

First-year IT students joined Spivey installing power, HDMI cables and a phone cable in a classroom that is being

converted into a dual enrollment room.

It is all under the supervision of Spivey.

“Normally there is a technology department to do this,” Spivey said.

“I have been here for so long and used to work for technology for Elmore County Schools. They let me do it and use students.”

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE HERALD Holtville senior Hunter Owens, left, and Stanhope Elmore junior During the project, students were required to Daniel Robinson install mounting hardware on a projector beaccess the space over the fore it is mounted to the ceiling. suspended ceiling used to hide utilities and the look into IT. other stuff,” Robinson trusses of the building.

“He thought I might be said. “It has been fun. I An extendable stick was good and able to find a see it as a career, maybe.” used to push cabling from job in IT,” Robinson said.

Like most information where the students were “I like it. You get to learn needed for certifications, installing a projector to a lot of different things. It the testing is performed near where a desk would really pushes me towards online. soon be for a computer. the future. My favorite “They are trying to be part has been running the “I let them do it self too careful,” Spivey said. cables in the different paced,” Spivey said.

“That is a good thing.” buildings. I learned how “They can do it here, at One student, Holtville to mount a TV to the home. If they finish in senior Hunter Owens, wall. It was awesome.”

December, they take the installed mounting hardSpivey said it was certification test and start ware to the projector. important for students to something new. They are Owens got interested in learn information techrequired to pass the first the program from family nology can also mean one by May.” and former students who physical labor. However, Spivey said students are working in the field. students don’t just learn with certifications can “I was talking to the IT how to install equipment. easily get jobs almost guy at my father’s work,” They are also working anywhere. Students who Owens said. “I want to towards various certifica- stick around for a full take what I learn here and tions such as TestOut Pro three years can be even work there.”

PC, TestOut Network Pro more successful landing a Stanhope Elmore and Comptia IT Fundafirst job. junior Daniel Robinson mentals.

“I have had one stusaid his father noticed he “The TestOut program dent get seven certificawas good with electronics is teaching me how to tions,” Spivey said. “He and encouraged him to look at motherboards and is doing quite well now.”

TORNADOS Continued from A1

limit the injuries and deaths sometimes associated with storms and tornadoes.

The Jan. 3 tornado destroyed two homes, six had major damage, eight with minor damage. All told, it affected about 25 properties.”

Nine days later after the Jan. 3 tornado, another tornado started in western Alabama and tracked across the state. Selma was struck and six died in Autauga County. The twister then entered Elmore County about two miles north of the previous track.

It struck the Lightwood Community before crossing Lake Jordan on its way to Coosa and Tallapoosa counties and Alexander City.

According to Barnett, there were 16 homes destroyed in that storm, 34 with major damage and 24 with minor damage. There was also one minor injury.

Nearly five years ago, a tornado ripped through Wetumpka, destroying

large structures and homes.

First Baptist Church of Wetumpka lost its original sanctuary. The old stained glass windows were salvaged and used in the construction of a new welcome center for the church. It cut the ribbon on the facility four years to the day after the 2019 tornado.

The same tornado destroyed the First Presbyterian Church of Wetumpka. It was rebuilt using plans from the original church. Services returned to a new sanctuary on the same site in August 2020 in a church that looks much like it did before the tornado.

The tornado also took out homes and the old Wetumpka Police Department.

Now, there is damage noticeable to a small degree, but life has mostly returned to normal.

“A few are still rebuilding,” Barnett said.

In the immediate aftermath of all three tornadoes, the response was tremendous. Local and state agencies and volunteers responded in a big way.

Near Holtville after one of last year’s storm, standards were met to declare a

national emergency. The same was the case back in 2019, and Elmore County Commission chair Bart Mercer noted the partnerships developed in each of the events have continued and flourished. So much so, the help enable Elmore County to aid other counties with volunteers, equipment and even supply storage after the Jan. 12 tornado last year.

“Our team, from our volunteers to our various staff members, pulled together to assist our citizens and those residents in surrounding counties that were impacted,” Mercer said. “It is a great testament to the relationships that have been fostered every day amongst our federal state, county, municipal and volunteer organizations.”

Elmore County Commissioner Henry Hines’ district was struck by the two January 2023 tornadoes. He was impressed by the response each time.

“I appreciate the way our staff, volunteers and support agencies worked together to expedite the recovery efforts,” Hines said.

The Wetumpka Herald

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Wednesday, January 10, 2024 • Page A3

Pet of the Week - Dream

Take your dog for a walk today fessional trainer. Our dogs simply love making us happy so reward when they do what you want as January is Health Awareness they will quickly figure out what Month as well as National Train makes you happy. Some dogs are Your Dog and Walk Your Pet motivated by treats (use a treat they Month. After all the indulgences of do not get at any other time and Thanksgiving and Christmas, no small so they don’t stop to chew), wonder January focuses on health others are motivated by toys and and fitness and the same goes for others just by your praise. our pets.

Dogs understand clear, conMany dogs are surrendered cise commands and most owners to shelters because they are “too simply talk too much so the dog active.” This generally means they is confused and has no idea what are simply in need of more exeris being asked of it. This is why a cise than they are getting. professional trainer can take your Another common thread is dog from you and in five minutes some of those dogs were often likely have it responding to comnever taught decent leash manners, mands. A good trainer knows how so a walk becomes sort of a battle to clearly communicate with your between the owner and the dog dog. For your dog it is an “OH, leading to no walks and an increas- THAT is what you want me to do” ingly frustrated pet and owner. So moment. why not start the New Year off In reality, training a dog is about great for both yourself and your 75% training the owner as to how dog by doing some simple leash to effectively communicate with training and adding your dog into their own pet. your new exercise program? It’ll Of course, our dogs are as difbe good for you and good for your ferent as we are so some pick up dog. on lessons quickly while others With just a little work your dog take a bit longer. Knowing your can happily be your walking/hikdog’s attention span is very importing/jogging partner so you can both ant as one dog may work great for get in shape together. Bottom line 15 minutes before losing interest is a tired dog is a more well-man- and for another five minutes is all nered dog too, so it is a win-win they can give you before they simfor both of you. ply tune out.

Teaching your dog to walk or Some are quicker on the uptake run with you on a leash, to not than others and knowing what jump and just to have basic nice really makes your dog tick also manners is not rocket science. But makes a big difference. Does your if owning a dog is new to you, dog respond to treats? Or toys? Or then you might want to seek a pro- clicks or whistles? Every dog is

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

different so finding what gets their undivided attention can greatly improve the chance of training success.

One caution: Some folks think they can send their dog to a trainer and they will come back and be the perfect dog — not true. Remember, you, the owner, are a huge part of the training process and you have to also learn how to communicate what you want so your dog will understand.

You can send a dog to a trainer but part of that will also be you spending time with your dog and the trainer so the dog trainer can train you, the owner.

Training of any kind takes patience and perseverance on everyone’s part, and it never really ends. Refresher training should honestly take place throughout your dog’s life – for both of you!

A professional golfer isn’t successful playing golf only during tournaments. They practice, get coaches, research and practice more. True success entails dedication!

So get out those comfy walking or running shoes, teach your dog first how to walk nicely on a leash, and start out 2024 with daily nice long walks/runs with your dog.

The reward will be a tired and better behaved dog, and perhaps a more fit and more relaxed you as well.

Rea Cord is the executive director of the Humane Society of Elmore County.

Dream is 7 months old as of early January and weighs about 40 to 45 pounds. She is an extremely loving girl.

She is active so not a couch potato, and she is house-, leash- and crate-trained.

Dream is great with children, dogs and cats. She knows sit, shake, stand and lay. She has stayed in a fence but is not a huge fan of car rides.

The Humane Society of Elmore County’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old. Cats over 1 can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee

covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, deworming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam with your participating veterinarian.

If you are interested in meeting Cola or any of the pets at HSEC, the first step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, you will be contacted by someone from the humane society. HSEC is located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka.

The phone number is 334567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.

GOP outreach aims to bring allies into the party

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor Eclectic native Kenneth Paschal surprised a lot of voters in 2021 when he was the first Black Republican elected to the Alabama Legislature since the Reconstruction Era. Now a Pelham resident, Paschal is helping the Alabama Republican Party reach more voters through its Outreach Coalition. Paschal told members of the Elmore County Republican Party there are plenty of voters within reach of the party, and state party chair John Wahl tasked Paschal with reaching them.

At a recent meet and

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE HERALD

Alabama State Rep. Kenneth Paschal of Pelham and native of Eclectic speaks to the Elmore County Republican Party about the GOP’s Outreach Coalition he chairs. Paschal was the first Black Republican elected to the Alabama legislature since Reconstruction.

greet, attendees got a chance to meet local officials and representatives including Paschal.

“At the state and national level, our mission is to go to the Democratic communities and

convert them,” Paschal said. “We have always done that, but how is that working out?”

Paschal intends to reach out in those communities, but first wants Republicans to find those

among them who share similar values of “God and country,” who vote in Republican primaries or are not politically active.

“Let's go in our own backyard and find the people who look like me, Asians, Hispanics and the young generation,” Paschal said. “We want to reach out to those who are already voting (with) our values.”

Names of voters are readily available through voter lists, and Paschal's goal is to reach voters in the last three Republican primaries, then two of the last three followed by just one of the last three.

“We just want to invite them to a local meet and greet,” Paschal

Council gives final go ahead for Overlook Park

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor A small park overlooking the Coosa River will soon be under construction near The Kelly.

At its Tuesday meeting, the Wetumpka City Council approved spending up to $35,000. The rest of the park will be constructed

by Main Street Wetumpka.

“The city’s portion will be for stormwater,” Mayor Jerry Willis said.

City staff said a 60-inch storm drain runs under

Hill Street to the banks of the river. The city’s investment will ensure the drain is in good condition and protected as it drains a significant portion of downtown.

The park has been in the planning stage for about a year. It will feature a few benches and signage highlighting the fall line in the river that will be visible from the overlook.

Main Street Wetumpka director Haley Greene said the organization has been selling brick pavers

as a fundraiser to help fund the project. The pavers are similar to the ones in the Alleyway.

“We hope to get construction underway soon,” Greene said.

IN OTHER ACTION THE WETUMPKA CITY COUNCIL: • Approved minutes of the Dec. 18 meeting.

• Approved winter landscaping totaling $10,611.

• Approved the purchase of two Dodge Chargers for the Wetumpka Police Department.

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE HERALD

A small pocket park is being created next to The Kelly. It is meant to be a stopping point for visitors in downtown Wetumpka.

• Approved the purchase of maintenance and concession for Hohenberg Field.

• Approved seeking quotes for pickleball court striping at Crommelin Park.

• Gave permission for the use of Gold Star Park for the Order of Cimarron Mardi Gras Festival and Parade on Feb. 10.

The next meeting of the Wetumpka City Council is scheduled for noon Tuesday, Jan. 16.

said. “We have found they vote Republican but have never been invited.

We want them to have a chance to plug in, especially locally.”

The state party already has diverse groups such as Alabama Minority GOP, College Republican Federation of Alabama, Alabama Federation of Republican Women and the Young Republican Federation of Alabama.

Those voters Paschal hopes to reach might also be interested in such

groups.

As a Black Republican, Paschal has faced challenges but he said his journey also accomplishes part of the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “‘I look to the day when people will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the contents of their character,’” Paschal said, quoting King. He went on to say, “I’m honored to serve in the Republican Party. I’m living proof we are open to all.”

First Place in General Excellence Best small daily newspaper in Alabama

THE

West namedcontinues new Russell Marine Maincharity Street director annual donation

theTHE freedom of WEDNESDAY the press, nor that be without danger of it.”

Alex City residentlimited wanted in relation tolosing high-speed chase —Thomas Jefferson

Sportplex may be new BRHS location

Opinions expressed in guest columns and letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the management of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

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

SUBMITTED

by Sandlin Jr. for a traffic violation. Detective Division is investigating THE OUTLOOK Easterwood said the car chase the incident, and, in addition to This photo began at approximately 11 a.m. arrest warrants in other jurisdicdepicts Alan Police are still searching for a Saturday and continued along U.S. tions, future criminal charges are Sandlin Jr., man who led officers on a highHighway 280 headed into Coosa also expected. who has been identified as speed chase throughout Alexander County. While attempting to elude The vehicle accident stema suspect in City and Coosa County over the law enforcement, Sandlin Jr. caused ming from Sandlin Jr. fleeing law connection weekend. a wreck with another vehicle. enforcement is now under investiwith a highThe Alexander City Police Sandlin Jr. then proceeded to flee gation as well by the Alabama Law speed chase Department has identified Alan into a wooded area as his vehicle Enforcement Agency.

BY SIRI HEDREEN over the Sandlin of Alexander City, in came to a stop on Highway 280.

According to a statement, the MultimediaJr., Reporter weekend. Police connection with a high-speed police According to Easterwood, sever- Coosa County Sheriff's Office conare still seeking The Alexander City Board of Education is "very, very pursuit that occurred Saturday. al local law enforcement agencies tinued the pursuit upon receiving a information close" to securing a location Benjamin Russell According to Alexander City for a were then called in to assist Alexcall stating that Sandlin Jr. was seen on his High School campus at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex, Police Chief James Easterwood, ander City police units with the in a gas station. whereabouts. all but ensuring the abandonment of a new school on Sandlin Jr. of initially eluded police searchHighway for Sandlin As he left the gas station, the the corner U.S. Highway 280 and State 63. Jr., but he could after Alex CityCity policeSchools officers superintendent not be located.

Alexander Dr. Keith attempted to stop a vehicle driven Easterwood said the ACPD’s See CHASE, Page A6 Lankford broke the news Tuesday at the chamber of commerce's annual State of Education luncheon, stating he was in talks with Mayor Woody Baird and parks and recreation director Sonny Wilson on placing the school within the city property. Lankford said he hopes to break ground on the building project in March. going to present to the city council as well as BY"We're SIRI HEDREEN the countyReporter commission so we can get this thing kicked Multimedia off," Lankford said. "We are close to making Benjamin The Alexander Citythe Board Education "very, very Russell High School, newofschool at theis Sportplex, close"toto securing a location for a Benjamin Russell come fruition."

High Schoolnamed campustheat baseball the Charles E. Bailey Lankford fields as the Sportplex, proposed all but ensuring the abandonment of a new school At on location, with an entrance off Elkahatchee Road. the corner U.S. Highway and aState Highway 63. present, theofbaseball fields 280 border patch of forest Alexander Schools superintendent where Russell City Medical Center plans to buildDr. its Keith new Siri Hedreen / The Outlook Lankfordcenter. broke the news Tuesday at the chamber of geriatric commerce's annual State of Education luncheon, stating The Charles E. Bailey Sportplex baseball elds, where the Alexander City Board of Education now intends to build its new BenjaSee SPORTPLEX • Page A10 he was in talks with Mayor Woody Baird and parks and min Russell High School campus. recreation director Sonny Wilson on placing the school within the city property. Lankford said he hopes to break ground on the building project in March.

"We're going to present to the city council as well as the county commission so we can get this thing kicked off," Lankford said. "We are close to making Benjamin at the Lake Martin Event Birmingham was going to real sure? I’m like in the Russell High School, the new school at the Sportplex, BY CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer Center. The meeting of buy that club and make concrete here,’” Hosey come to fruition."

Lankford named the baseball fields as the proposed For two years Tina Lake Community Church it another club. Rudy got said. “God told me, ‘I’ve would grown you here and now location, with an entrance off Elkahatchee Road. At Hosey has felt the tug of and Hosey has the two on saved and said he ABIGAIL MURPHY | THE I’mOUTLOOK ready for you to do never make it a club again.” present, the baseball fields border a patch of forest the Lord leading her to a a new call for God. Alibi’s never became a ministry.’”

Hosey has left a place of TOP RIGHT: The pieceswasn’t/ The Outlook where Russell Medical Center plans to build its new new church.

Siri Hedreen Hosey sure God she was comfortable church but it didn’t return geriatric center.

For two years the Lake donated wereofnow multiple where thebuild calling asof Education a place at just a few weeks ago and to its The Charles E.Church Bailey Sportplex Cityroots Board intendsdifferent to its newwould Benjahas baseball elds, where the Alexander See SPORTPLEX • Page A10 Community lead.

Someone who has arrived at a new church entertainment. min Russell High School campus.

BY CLIFF WILLIAMS mediums from acrylic to watercolor. been looking for a permaHosey was comfort- been attending Lake venue at the Rodeo Club Staff Writer nent home.

LEFT: As aCommunity 501c nonprofit Church for the the congregation as it transforms to another able in TOP TPI Staff Their paths have now Sandra Fuller's efforts as Tallapoosa County last yeartohad area church —donations mission of community ser- of another organization, thebeen invitcrossed at the Rodeo Club tourism director have gotten the attention of Gov. ing Hosey. But it was at vice. It’s a transformation more than two decades.

A familiar face has returned to Tallapoosa where patrons have been Kay Ivey. funeral where Hosey “I prayed shelter real hardare thattaxadeductible. of an establishment servPublishers. pulling stools up to the bar Fuller has been leading the efforts of the Tallapoosa was setoftothe sing and talked else ing alcohol that Hosey has God had something Lizi Arbogast Gwin,towho previously servednatural BELOW: Members for but not for much at the Lake Martin Event planned real the sure?mother I’m like in the was going BY years, CLIFF WILLIAMS County Commission promote the area’s of Malia for me,” Hoseyto with seen before in Tallapoosa Birmingham as sports editor for The Alexander Out-now help longer. concrete here,’” Staff Writer buy “God thatanimal club andstirring make Center. — Theat meeting of said. resources and activities to tourists City and will shelter staff cut the who ribbon Stariha, helps Hosey lead started County Alibi’s on look, has beencourse namedofthe new Ivey managing editorFuller For five decades the Lake Community Church init my said.

“God told me, ‘I’ve another club.

Rudy got guide a state study. appointed the Praise Team at Lake soul again a couple For two itsyears Tina Highway 49. for the grand opening ceremony. club has seen fair share of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. grown you here and now saved and said he would and Hosey has the two on to the ‘Hospitality and Tourism Committee.’ The Community Church, when “God was trying to do years ago.”

Hosey has felt the tug toof of dancing and more A born and raised Virginian, she describes I’m ready for you to make again.” a new callthing for God. committee is part of the Alabama State Department Hosey feltit aa club calling to prayers were answered. do the same he is doing never the Lord leading her to a tunes played by the likes herself as a sports fanatic and an avid WashAlibi’s neverand became Hosey has left a place of Education course of study review for career and the pews movea ministry.’” here, there,” Hosey said.of leave new church. of Mickey Gilley, Billy God she was comfortable forward Hosey wasn’t sure church in buther it service didn’t return See CHURCH • Page A10 ington Capitals and Detroiteducation.

Lions fan. Gwin technical But Fuller’s with two years Lake “I sang there for like 10 to its roots RayForCyrus and the others. as a still placehadof where the calling would at just a few weeks ago and attended Virginiainput Commonwealth started moreUniversity than a year ago but Hosey Community Church has years. The gentleman who God, Hosey has even been one lead. Someone who has entertainment. arrivedit at new church

BY CLIFF WILLIAMS through committees on the matter owned justa passed away, questions.

See EDITOR, Page A6 of been looking for on a permaof the entertainers stage been attending Lake Hosey was comfortvenue at the Rodeo Club Staff Writer developing skills for the hospitality “I was like, ‘Are you Rudy Stewart. A man from nent home. as it transforms to another able in the congregation Community Church for the industry during formativeCounty years Their paths have now Sandra Fuller's efforts as the Tallapoosa mission of community ser- of another area church — last year had been invitof have education. crossed at the Rodeo Club tourism director gotten the attention of Gov. ing Hosey. But it was at vice. It’s a transformation more than two decades.

“I’ve been speaking with educawhere patrons have been Kay Ivey.

“I prayed real hard that a funeral where Hosey of an establishment servtion professionals area high pulling stools up to the bar Fuller has been leading the effortsatofour the Tallapoosa ing alcohol that Hosey has God had something else was set to sing and talked schools,toespecially witharea’s a hospitalfor years, but not for much Reported 11/30/21 of @ 5 Malia p.m.

Fuller County Commission promote the natural with theonmother planned for me,” Hosey seen before in Tallapoosa ity curriculum about they help are longer. resources and activities to tourists andwhat will now County — at Alibi’s on said. “God started stirring Stariha, who helps lead doing,” said. “I’ve also been conversations For five decades the guide aFuller state course of study.

Ivey in appointed Fuller in my soul again a couple the Praise Team at Lake Highway 49.

BY WILLIAM MARLOW with those in the hospitality industry about the skills club has seen its fair share to the ‘Hospitality and Tourism Committee.’ The Community Church, when “God was trying to do years ago.”

Multimedia they seek Reporter inisemployees.” of dancing and more to LACEY HOWELL committee part of the Alabama State Department answered.

Hosey felt a calling to prayers were the same thing he is doing previously worked the for Lake Martin 256.307.2443 tunes played by the likes ofFuller Education course of study at review career and here, there,” Hosey said. leave the pews and move laceyshowell@gmail.com Area Economic Development Alliance.

Fuller now of Mickey Gilley, Billy Federal agenciestechnical are currently assisting Tallapoosa See5295 CHURCH Page Highway 280,• Alex City,A10 AL education.

But Fuller’s “I sang there for like 10 forward in her service with Ray Cyrus and others. recruits touristsafter to issuing thestarted area and previously helped County residents a disaster declaration input more than a year ago years. The gentleman who God, but Hosey still had Hosey has even been one recruit industry to the area but said the are simfor the region last week. through committees ontwo the matter of owned it just passed away, questions. of the entertainers on stage ilarThe in Federal their needs.

Emergency Management Agency developing skills for the hospitality “I was like, ‘Are you Rudy Stewart. A man from “It’s all workforce development (FEMA) hasabout recognized Tallapoosa County as a regardless major years industry during the formative of whatarea segment will be working in,” Fuller disaster following a Jan. 12 long-track tornado ofthey education. said. that swept through the“I’ve countybeen and surrounding areas.educaspeaking with Mary of the governor’s FEMAKatherine representatives surveyed the county’s tionPittman professionals at ourstorm areaoffice high believes Fuller’s experience will bringa hospitalwisdom especially with damage thisschools, month, according to Tallapoosa Reported on 11/30/21 @ 5 p.m.

Fuller earlier developed through experience toabout thedirector committee. ity curriculum what they are County Emergency Management Agency High Low “Our goal in the “I’ve governor’sbeen office conversations is to recruit doing,” Fuller Jason Moran, andsaid. based on thealso assessmentindetermined individuals who can provideindustry insight about into bridging with those in the hospitality the skills Tallapoosa County qualified for both public and indiour education system to the workforce and we they seek in employees.” vidual assistance.

LACEY HOWELL believe [Fuller] can doworked just that,” said.

Fuller previously at Pittman the Lake Martin 256.307.2443 FEMA representatives began the county Fuller’s appointment is visiting as Alliance. a representative of laceyshowell@gmail.com MORE ONLINE Area Economic Fuller now beginning Jan. 27 inDevelopment an attempt to provide aid to 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL Alabama’s Third Congressional to area thehelped comCliff Williams / The Outlook To check out a video from the Coosa County animal shelter’s grand opening, 6 54708 90050 8 recruits tourists to the area andDistrict previously mittee a yeartolong term but withsaid multiple visitShikoski us online atpart www.alexcityoutlook.com takes in a Lake Community Church service Sunday at the Lake Martin Event USPS Permit # 013-080 recruitfor industry the area the twomeetings are sim- Marge See DISASTER, Page A6 inilar Montgomery each month.

Center and Rodeo Club. in their needs.

“It’s all about workforce development regardless of what segment they will be working in,” Fuller said.

Mary Katherine Pittman of the governor’s office and Your Loved Ones! believes Fuller’s experience will bring wisdom •Home-like Environment • Specialized Dementia Care Unit developed through experience to the committee.

Call or Low or High Reported on 01/31/23 @ 2 p.m.

•Physical,Call Occupational and Speech Therapy Services “Our goal in the governor’s office is to recruit go online go online individuals who can provide insight into bridging to browse, artin to browse, buy our education system to the workforce High buy orLow LLaakkee Mand we Livingsaid. sell! or sell! believe [Fuller] can do just that,” Pittman LACEY HOWELL Fuller’s appointment is as a representative of 256.307.2443 CLASSIFIEDS laceyshowell@gmail.com Alabama’s Third Congressional District to the comCliff Williams / The Outlook & Record The Outlook d Classifi l 90050 fieds d8 DAMS EALTH & EHAB 6 54708 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL Sharemeetings mittee for a year long term with multiple rden 1555 Htakes ILLABEE 329-0847 Marge Shikoski partSinTREET a Lake• (256) Community Church service Sunday at the Lake Martin Event USPS •Permit # 013-080 256.277.4219 the Ga WWW.ALEXCITYOUTLOOK.COM 256.277.4219 in Montgomery each month.

Center and Rodeo Club.

BY WILLIAM MARLOW Multimedia Reporter

Alex City Schools plan LOCAL, PAGEannounces 10

SPORTS, PAGE 11

Russell Marine continues Alabama escapes to abandon build on US 280, cityLighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892 Vol. 129, No. 96 www.alexcityoutlook.com $1.00 Auburn after 4 overtimes annual charity donation TheWetumpkaHerald.com officials still need to approveDecember plan 1, 2021

Page A4 • Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Our Mission

First Place in SPORTS, PAGE PAGE A7 11 General Excellence Lighting the way for Alexander Best small City daily Lighting the way for Alexander City&newspaper &Lake LakeMartin Martinsince since1892 1892but byAlabama Taylor, Turner “Our liberty cannot be guarded escapes in Alabama February 1,1,2023 December 2021 Vol. Vol.131, 129,No. No.1096 www.alexcityoutlook.com www.alexcityoutlook.com $1.00 $1.00 Auburn named after to all-star game 4 overtimes

LOCAL, PAGE10 A3 LOCAL, PAGE

Kenneth Boone, Chairman Tippy Hunter, General Manager Lizi Arbogast Gwin, Managing Editor

WEDNESDAY

Sportplex may be new BRHS location

Stop using Artificial Intelligence

A

rtificial Intelligence is all the rage right now.

Seemingly every time I’m on Facebook, I see a new AI photo from one of my friends or an advertisement for a new Artificial Intelligence app.

Of course there are some great things about AI. One of which is Otter AI, which transcribes interviews — a true thing of beauty for a journalist.

There’s the self-checkout lanes that make shopping easier.

But in a lot of ways, AI is a dangerous game.

I recently read an article about a service offering AI touch-ups for children’s yearbook photos. Let’s think about that for a second.

Kids struggle with self-esteem and identity more than ever now. Because of social media, children are competing with each other for the best looks, most money, and the greatest pictures at an even younger age.

Parents aren’t always helping the issue.

Alex City Schools announces plan to abandon build on US 280, city officials still need to approve plan

is a threat to their job security (and mine), but more importantLIZI ly, it’s a threat to decent writing.

You’ll notice some AI-written GWIN articles on news sites now, and Managing it’s almost like a red flag wavEditor Decades long honky-tonk transforms ing, showing you no one was into a church actually covering whatever it is welcomes But now to addTPI Artificial you’re reading about. You may familiar face as Intelligence to the recipe makes or may not be getting correct managing editor it even more difficult. information.

I mean, I get it. I have a solid Moreover, actors joined the Decades long honky-tonk transforms into a church four years of yearbook photos strike as AI can now use their CoosatoCounty opens a film withwith a bowl cut. If anyone need- likeness produce new animal shelter ed AI as an elementary school out them even in it most of the kid, it was me. time.

Martin But there’s something beauThese are just a couple exam- LakeLakeLevels tiful about those embarrassing ples of the dangers of Artificial Disaster recovery center to photos too. Kids these days Intelligence, and there are many 483.05 open in Tallapoosa County deserve to have that too. more. Make sure when you Artificial Intelligence is takupload that picture to Facebook ing over, but it’s also going to you don’t have an extra finger Lake Martin start taking over people’s jobs or two.

Today’s Lake Levels Weather — it already has.

483.05 The Writers Guild of AmeriLizi Arbogast is the managing 69 42 ca was recently on strike in the editor at Tallapoosa Publishfilm industry, and a big part of ers Inc. She can be reached via that was due to the use of AI email at lizi.gwin@alexcityoutToday’s in movies and TV shows.

The look.com or via phone at 434Lake Martin Lake Martin’s Best Source for Weather Recycle Your Stuff for Snap Up a Deal We Care About You Today’s Lake Levels News and Information. screenwriters know AI writing 962-9420. eds Weather in the Classieds Cash in the Classifi 69 42

County tourism director appointed to state committee

HELP ON THE WAY

County tourism director appointed to state committee

484ft

People,

events

and culture

in the

Lake

Region

A

er • Dr.

urself

from

an active

shoot

H

R

Wags March

2018

gazine.com martinmaMartin Living Lake www.lake

We Care About You and Your Loved Ones!

•Home-like Environment • Specialized Dementia Care Unit •Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Services

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Postal Information

USPS-681-260 ISSN: 1536-688 The Wetumpka Herald is published weekly on Wednesday, by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010.

Periodical postage paid at Wetumpka, Alabama.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Wetumpka Herald, P. O. Box 99, Wetumpka, AL 36092-0099.

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.

Corruption You Didn’t Read About!

S

tay calm. Nothing (that we know of) is happening, but without a local newspaper source providing public accountability, this may not always be the case.

DISCLAIMER: This is hypothetical and not a reflection of Tallapoosa, Elmore or Coosa counties.

Let’s pretend we live in a small town with no newspaper presence and a government that doesn’t conduct business properly. It has no transparency, can’t afford oversight authority and faces political corruption, fraud, bribery and a high crime rate. Public servants are the spenders and keepers of taxpayer money and owe a high duty of care to the role but because of lack of oversight, they operate their agenda and no longer work for the people.

Most citizens aren’t aware, and the ones that know don’t ask. Let’s face it, small communities have less pushback. Everyone knows everyone, which makes it difficult to question authority. In worst-case scenarios, those same close-knit relationships can amplify corruption as parties could be in partnership.

Also, in our hypothetical community with no local newspaper

56 49

sometimes have catastrophic consequences, intentional or not.

TIPPY Individual accountability is another area that newspapers HUNTER provide a level of security. With General the overall masses’ best interest Manager in mind, accountability for one’s actions outweighs the safety risk of source, with no one covering coun- no accountability. Crime is a public cil meetings and proposed plans, safety risk; therefore, keeping the it’s easier for municipalities to public informed is a civic responraise utility rates, award contracts sibility. It’s only in cases where to friends or slip last-minute agen- the public has a personal feeling da items into policy with citizens for the offender this touches a left in the dark. nerve. An ethical, unbiased paper, The same can be said for any however, will not pick and choose organization in our hypothetical coverage. If journalists are aware, community. If donated funds are they must investigate. Unknown earmarked for charity but are mis- criminal cases are not covered and handled, having no accountability I implore the public to understand may have exacerbated the problem. reporters simply cannot know It is an unfortunate fact small everything. If you are concerned communities can be more suscepabout a specific case, please call tible to corruption because they the TPI tip line or submit your tip have fewer employees and limited on our website. oversight. Through no fault of their Journalists promote own, they lack ethics commissions accountability on a fair, unbiased, and typical checks and balances. neutral platform. Knowledge is Smaller communities are more power and if you know certain likely to fly under the radar of state roads are under consideration for and U.S. authorities. Organizations paving with taxpayer money or and governments in small comutility rates may increase, you have munities operate with the majority a voice and can be a champion of power led by a few people.

See CORRUPTION, Page B4 Without accountability this can

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Wednesday, January 10, 2024 • Page A5

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The Wetumpka Herald

Resolutions

with God, and the Word was God, and REV. Whereas through the Word JONATHAN all things were made; there was nothing made without the YARBORO reetings from the participated in the presentaWord, and Columnist corner of Bridge and tion of a resolution? I am not Whereas the Word was life, Bridge! It is a beautitalking about the sharing of and that life was the light for ful, albeit slightly chilly, Mon- New Year’s resolutions. I am they err on the side of silly. In all of humankind, and the day morning as I write this speaking of the time-honored either case, the idea is that a darkness will never overcome week’s column. It is January practice of drafting a resoluseries of supporting statements it, and after all! tion in the name of honoring a are provided in the name of Whereas the Word became First and foremost, I pray person or situation. justifying a particular decflesh and made its dwelling that everyone reading this You know what I am talking laration. With that in mind, among us, so that all might week’s column had a meanabout. These documents are I would like to offer a New see the glory of God in perfecingful Christmas season. The also known as the “Whereas” Year’s resolution aimed at all tion and completeness, and holidays have the potential to documents. They typically of us.

Whereas the God who creprovide time for reconnecting include a litany of “whereWhereas in the beginning ated all things issued a call to with family and friends and as” statements followed by God formed the earthly kingthe whole of the earthly kingtaking a break from all that a “therefore” statement. We dom out of a formless void, dom to listen to the Word, and “regular” days in the earthly most often encounter them at with the winds of the Holy Whereas the Word of God kingdom deliver. I pray the retirement celebrations, build- Spirit blowing everything into is the guide for every child of blessings God makes possible ing or business dedications, place, and God, regardless of any distinthrough the incarnation were and the like.

Whereas the Word of God guishing characteristic of morrevealed in and through us all.

Sometimes these resoluwas present in the beginning tal identity, and When was the last time you tions are serious. Sometimes with God, and the Word was Whereas every child of

G

God, regardless of covenant relationship with God or even lack thereof, has the capacity to participate in the ongoing revelation of the Word of God, and Whereas every child of God is made in the image of God as a blessing to be shared with the whole of the earthly kingdom, and Whereas the word of God was sent in the flesh in order to redeem the earthly kingdom, not to condemn it, be it therefore resolved that: Every child of God should strive to follow God’s Word, the perfect and complete example for life in the earthly kingdom, in every time and place to the best of our ability.

Rev. Jonathan Yarboro is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Wetumpka

Church Briefs BETHLEHEM EAST BAPTIST CHURCH Bethlehem East Baptist Church will have all Sunday school classes beginning at 9:45 a.m. Sunday morning followed by regular service at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary. We will continue with Facebook Live Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and Worship Service at 11 a.m.

CARRVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH Regular hours of service are Sundays- 9 a.m. Sunday School and 10 a.m. Morning Worship.

Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. the church offers Children’s Gospel Project, Youth Bible Study and Adult Prayer Meeting.

Regular office hours are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

EAST TALLASSEE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH ETUMC’s Rivers Edge Flea Market is now closed.

The church will start a new project called Rivers Edge Food Pantry. ETUMC will provide canned food, water, dry beans and rice, blan-

kets, and jackets. If you want to donate or help with the cause, call Joan Wood at 334-312-4913.

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE EPIPHANY Please join us for Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. when the Rev. Lee Lowery will celebrate the Holy Eucharist. We are asking everyone please to wear a mask. The service will be live streamed on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ EpiphanyTallassee/ For more information, visit the

church website at http:// epiphanytallassee.org/ FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH First Presbyterian Church, located at 514 Central Blvd. will host a Veteran’s Day Celebration on Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. for all veterans and first responders and their family members.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH “We are OPEN and everyone is WELCOME! Come worship with us in

person Sunday mornings at 8:50 a.m. (contemporary) or 11 a.m. (traditional).

Sunday School for all ages is offered Sunday mornings at 10 a.m., and a nursery is available for infants. CHILDREN & YOUTH: meet Sunday evenings from 5-6:30 p.m. and Wednesday evenings from 6-7:15 p.m.; supper is included both days! For more information about our church or the programs we offer, visit our website: fumctallassee.com or call us: 334-283-2195. FUMC

Tallassee - 1 Jordan Avenue.”

OUR LIFE’S JOURNEY Airs every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. on 580 WACQ, FM 98.5 & 101.1, on your smart speaker, your TuneIn app, or on our website www.wacqradio. com. Please share on social media. This set of programs features Msgr.

Charles Troncale, Fr. Mateusz Rudzik, Fr. James Dean, Fr. David Carucci, Fr. Patrick Driscoll, and Deacon Jim Labadie.

Worship With Us Call 334.567.7811 to advertise your church’s services.

Advertising options that t your budget.

ARMONY H United Methodist Church 8000 Titus Road Titus, AL Sunday Services at 11a.m. ___ Minister Dr. John Brannon

10:15 am

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TheWetumpkaHerald.com

January 10, 2024 • Page B1

Wetumpka boys win second straight county title

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor For the second straight season, the Wetumpka boys basketball team is on top of the county.

Wetumpka beat rival Stanhope Elmore, 64-62, in a thrilling championship in the Elmore County tourna-

ment on Saturday. The Indians have now won back-to-back titles after beating Tallassee in the championship last season.

Both seasons, Wetumpka beat Tallassee and Stanhope Elmore on their respective home courts.

“This win means a lot See COUNTY, Page B2

STANHOPE ELMORE GIRLS TOP WETUMPKA IN

COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

DALTON MIDDLETON | THE HERALD

Wetumpka’s Julius Williams (24) hit the game-winning shot with 2.8 seconds left to lead Wetumpka past Stanhope Elmore in the Elmore County tournament championship.

Wetumpka’s Humphrey, Banks shine in first varsity game careers.

The two middle school superstars did not disappoint.

The future of the After a 44-38 win Wetumpka girls high over Elmore County school basketball team in the first win of the is bright.

Elmore County BasAs Wetumpka started ketball Tournament on the season with a 1-6 Thursday night, Humoverall record, and was phrey and Banks scored outscored 404-224, the a combined 26 points Indians decided to call to spark the comeback up some young talent victory. from the middle school.

Humphrey scored In Wetumpka’s first a team-high 14 points game of 2024, eighth while Banks added 12 graders Aaliyah Humpoints. Twenty-one of phrey and Logan Banks their 26 total points played in their first varsity game of their See VARSITY, Page B2

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

DALTON MIDDLETON | THE HERALD

Wetumpka’s Logan Banks (30) goes up for a layup against Elmore County. The eighth grader made five layups in her first career varsity game.

T

he Stanhope Elmore girls basketball team turned in a dominant performance from start to finish on Saturday.

Stanhope Elmore beat rival Wetumpka, 59-42, in the championship of the Elmore County Basketball Tournament. The Mustangs (11-4) led from start to finish in the win.

It is Stanhope’s second-straight win over Wetumpka dating back to last season’s area tournament when the Mustangs ended the Indians’ season with a postseason win.

“It’s always good to win,” Stanhope coach Kelvin Stokes said. “It’s a rivalry game and both teams always play hard. I’m very proud of our girls. With that win, we stay undefeated at home and that’s something our girls are hanging their hats on.”

Stanhope wasted no time taking an early lead in the first quarter, but it wasn’t until late in the second quarter when the Mustangs were able to pull away a bit. Up 19-15, the Mustangs went on a quick 6-0 run on three steals and lay ups. That was able to give them a 10-point lead, and they never allowed Wetumpka to get back within eight points the rest of the way.

Wetumpka eighth grader Aaliyah Humphrey was able to hit two free throws before the half to cut it to 25-17, but the damage from Stanhope’s stingy defense was already done.

“We switched defenses today,” Stokes said. “We’re usually a pressing and man defense, but we switched to mid zone and doubled the top. We made Wetumpka

DALTON MIDDLETON | THE HERALD

TOP: Stanhope Elmore’s Ariel Gilchrist (3) shoots over Wetumpka’s Emily Smith. Gilchrist scored a game-high 19 points in the championship win.

ABOVE: Wetumpka’s Gabby Jackson drives to the hoop against Stanhope Elmore in the Elmore County tournament championship.

make decisions high and it got them out of sync. With that, we got them on their heels and made them make some decisions.”

Coming out of halftime, Stanhope was quickly able to push its lead out to 15 points but had to withstand one final Wetumpka run.

Emily Smith knocked down a 3-pointer to cut the lead to 12, then Charlissia Gibbs knocked down a corner trey and was fouled. She made the free throw to complete the four-point play and cut the lead to eight points.

On the following possession, however, Ariel Gilchrist quickly pushed the lead back to 10 and the team took momentum right back.

“We are a very battle tested team and you saw that (Saturday),” Stokes said.

“When they made their run, we stayed the course and didn’t let it overcome us.

I’m proud of us for that.”

Gilchrist, much like she

usually does, took charge of the Stanhope offense as she finished the game with a game-high 19 points to go along with eight steals as she earned Tournament MVP honors.

She had plenty of help, as three Mustangs scored in double digits and four scored eight or more points.

Tamira Smalls had 12 points and an impressive 16 rebounds while Jada McLeod added 10 points and eight rebounds.

Sophomore Aniyah Burton added eight points to wrap up the balanced offensive attack.

“One great thing about Ariel is that she trusts her teammates and is not afraid to give her teammates a chance when she gets doubled,” Stokes said. “We are well balanced. We didn’t hit the shots early in the game, but knowing that we have four or five girls who can score and add depth makes you like where we are.”

Stanhope Elmore’s Gilder shines in county tournament

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor Whenever Stanhope Elmore needed a shot on Saturday, senior guard Corian Gilder came through in the clutch.

In Stanhope Elmore’s 64-62 loss to Wetumpka in the championship of the Elmore County Basketball Tournament, Gilder

scored a game-high 23 points to lead the Mustangs to their runner-up finish.

His big game came after only scoring seven points in the tournament’s 58-29 opening win over Elmore County on Friday night.

“Corian really brings so much to our team,” Stanhope Elmore coach David Cochran

said. “He’s one of our leaders and captains and we put a lot on his shoulders. You can tell everything is really clicking for him right now. He’s the engine that makes this thing run, and he’s understanding that.”

Wetumpka wasted no time See GILDER, Page B2

DALTON MIDDLETON | THE HERALD

Stanhope Elmore’s Corian Gilder scored a game-high 23 points in the loss to Wetumpka in the Elmore County Basketball Tournament.

Page B2 • Wednesday, January 10, 2024

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

VARSITY

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Continued from B1

were scored in the second half. Only five other points were scored by the other members of the Indians roster in the second half.

“They just really brought fresh legs and a different mindset,” head coach Harriet Winchester said. “Pulling them up helps build us depth on the bench and it relieves the stress from the high schoolers.”

Neither player had taken reps with the varsity before. Winchester wanted the two of them to enjoy their middle school games, but as soon as they were done, she quickly pulled them up to the varsity.

Banks’ impact was instantly felt on the court Thursday night.

Banks is taller than most and doesn’t look like the typical eighth grader, and she showed why in the paint. She scored four points in the first half, tied for the team lead, with two lay ups.

She had three more layups in the second half and finished with five field goals in the game. She was the only girl on the roster who made more than two baskets in the game.

Humphrey, on the other hand, complemented her well with outside shooting and getting to the free throw line.

Humphrey had only one point at halftime, but then quickly made an impact in the third quarter. In a quarter where Wetumpka only scored eight points, she scored half of them and knocked down a big 3-pointer early in the quarter to tie the game at 23-23.

She then attempted another 3-pointer from the right side of the perimeter, and was fouled on the attempt. She only made one of her free throw attempts, but it was enough to give Wetumpka its first lead of the night.

The Indians led, 26-24, and her shooting ability came up big in the final quarter.

She was able to consistently draw fouls in the fourth and found herself at the charity stripe eight times. She knocked down 7-of-8 free throws, then even added a mid-range jumper to cap off her nine-point quarter.

She finished 9-of-13 from the free throw line while the rest of the Wetumpka roster went a combined 8-of-21.

“Aaliyah’s vision for the court is better than most and getting this experience is really going to help us in the long run,” Winchester said. “It certainly helped us tonight. She did really well shooting her free throws. She relieved the pressure off of everyone, even the coaches.”

Wetumpka’s 44 points was the second-most points the Indians have scored this season, only worse than their season-opening win over Central-Hayneville.

Since that game, Wetumpka has only scored over 29 points twice and has scored 20 or less three times.

In the second half alone, Wetumpka’s two new eighth grade stars outscored those point totals.

“Their first game was a very good one,” Winchester said.

COUNTY

Continued from B1

in terms of playing Stanhope in an environment like this,” Wetumpka coach Steven Thomas said. “For a year now, we can say we’re the best in the county. For us, our mindset was wanting to be back-to-back county championships. Now we can carry this momentum into next week which will be big for our confidence.”

Stanhope Elmore led for much of the second half, but a late play by two of Wetumpka’s guards sealed the win for the Indians.

Leading 62-61, Stanhope Elmore

FOOTSTEPS Continued from A1

have been made. The girls selected as county representatives travel to and stay in Montgomery with host families prior to the weekend program. The biggest change has been technology. There are still opening numbers, group routines and more to learn. When Gigi participated, it was all learned in person.

Gracie is learning all of the routines at home thanks to 18 videos.

The Wetumpka Herald

Elmore County’s Myles Eyerly remains unbeaten with big weekend

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor Elmore County heavyweight wrestler Myles Eyerly started his 2024 off with an impressive week.

Wrestling in the AHSAA Class 5A, Region 2 duals and the Julian McPhillips Tournament held at St. James, Eyerly went 7-0 with seven dominant wins.

The 5A defending state champion earned three pins over opponents from Tallassee, Valley and Beauregard in the region tournament, then opened up the weekend tournament with a pin vs. Reeltown and Dothan.

In the final two matches, he took down two of the top heavyweights in the state back-to-back. He beat Holtville’s Tyson Ratliff, 8-0, then took down Class 1A-4A’s No. 1-ranked wrestler in PCA’s Aidan Cockrell, 1-0.

For his performance, Eyerly is the Elmore County Player of the Week.

“He had some really, really good performances in our region duals,” head coach Mason Thornton said. “Then he faced a few ranked wrestlers and pulled out two really great matches. It was a great showing on his part all the way around.”

In the win over Cockrell in the heavyweight championship, the two No. 1-ranked wrestlers went back-and-forth early. The score remained 0-0 after the first period with neither wrestler able to do much,

Vote for your Fans’ Choice Player of the Week now! but Eyerly took a 1-0 lead on an escape early in the second period.

After a reset, Eyerly started on top and held Cockrell down and didn’t allow an escape for the rest of the two minutes. The third period remained much of the same back-and-forth until the final quarter of the match. With around 25 seconds left, the two locked up and went flying off the map and crashed into the scorer’s table. Instead of the match being called, however, both wrestlers went back out and closed out the final 20 seconds and Eyerly finished with his 1-0 win.

“It’s a difficult task holding down a heavyweight for two minutes, but he stepped up and held Cockrell down,” Thornton said. “It worked out in our favor and was a very exciting finish.”

Eyerly likely doesn’t mind winning by decision, but he’s done the most of his work with pins this year. Out of his 21 wins, he has 16 wins by pins this season.

He did much of the same

GILDER

Continued from B1

taking a 17-7 lead over Stanhope Elmore in the first four minutes of the game, but Gilder made sure his team battled back.

He scored 10 points in the first quarter alone, hitting four free throws in the final minute after being fouled on back-to-back possessions to cut the lead down to one point, 17-16.

Wetumpka pushed its lead back out to four points, but Gilder and company went on another run.

Barring only a free throw from the Indians, the Mustangs hit four consecutive field goals and capped off a 9-1 run with a deep 3-pointer from Gilder to put

had the ball and tried to inbound to run the clock out. Instead, Nate Rogers intercepted a deep pass and gave the Indians one last chance with eight seconds left.

Instead of shooting the ball himself, he passed the ball to a wide open Julius Williams under the goal and Williams shot the ball off the top of the glass. An unlikely goaltending call was made against Stanhope, awarding Wetumpka the shot and a 63-62 lead with 2.8 seconds left.

“With Julius, he’s one where the confidence has continued to build up as a senior,” Thomas said. “On defense, he’s going to play well at any position and to see him make

“I have to memorize them,” Gracie said. “It’s a lot of pressure.”

One thing Gracie will experience her mother also did is lack of communication with friends and family until after the program at Frazer Church next week. There is no social media and no cell phones for the representatives during the week they prepare as a group for the program with rehearsals and community outings. Gracie’s mother said her daughter is on her phone a lot, always watching streaming services.

during his state championship run last year as he pinned six of his last seven matches in super sectionals and the state tournament.

“That shows his strength as a wrestler,” Thornton said. “His game has improved so much on top where he’s able to turn these guys and pin them.

It’s difficult turning a heavyweight and some of these guys he faces are heavier than he is, and that’s a testament to his strength and the work he’s put in.”

Eyerly entered the 20232024 season with a target on his back. He finished his junior campaign with the state title and a 40-6 record, but he wanted to be even better to finish out his high school career.

So far as a senior, he’s done exactly that as he is

the Mustangs up at halftime, 31-27.

He added a second 3-pointer in the third quarter, and it came at a massive moment. Wetumpka was on a 5-0 run and had just tied the game up before Gilder knocked down an easy nothing but net 3-pointer that pushed Stanhope’s lead back out as the two teams went into the final quarter.

“Corian’s always been the one that we have the full confidence in taking a shot like that,” Cochran said. “He wants the ball in moments like that. Tonight, more than ever, we saw him being another coach on the floor and I’m proud of how he played.”

His biggest shot of the game came with 38 seconds left. Down by one point, Gilder looked to drive to the basket but

that shot is just him getting rewarded for his defensive effort and the effort he gives us every day. It was a proud moment seeing that.”

While Williams hit the game-winner, it was the duo of Nate Rogers and Malik Owens that allowed Wetumpka to stay in the game.

The two started hot as they scored 15 of the team’s 17 first quarter points, but they both quickly got into foul trouble.

With both sitting, the Indians saw a 17-7 lead turn into a 26-22 deficit in the second quarter. Stanhope led, 31-27, at half, but Owens and Rogers took back over in the second half.

“That is going to be different,” Gigi said. “I think not being able to connect with her classmates and friends will be difficult. I think she will be all right because of how busy they will be.”

Luckily, Gracie will still be allowed to check her email each night.

She plans to use her Wetumpka theater experience in the talent portion of the show and will rely on a musical she learned during the Addams Family production.

“I’m a big theater girl,” Gracie said. “I want to do

SUBMITTED | THE HERALD

Elmore County’s Myles Eyerly, posing with the Panther Pin Belt, went 7-0 with five pins and two decisions over the course of the AHSAA Class 5, Region 2 duals tournament and the Julian McPhillips Invitational.

the lane was closed off by the Wetumpka defense. He then dribbled to the middle of the paint and knocked down a short jumper.

That shot put Stanhope Elmore up, 62-61, but that was Gilder’s final shot as he fouled out just a few seconds later.

With him watching from the bench, Wetumpka was able to take four straight offensive possessions and take the lead on a goaltending call with 2.8 seconds left.

Stanhope then got two chances at a play and turned the ball over both times.

“It was tough not having him in that moment, but we still had the opportunity to win the game down the stretch without him. We just have to execute a little better and that’s on me as the coach,” Cochran said.

Owens, who scored a team-high 21 points, netted 13 points in the second half while Rogers scored four points in the fourth quarter — arguably his biggest four of the game..

Down 60-58 with 1:30 left, Rogers caught a pass on the perimeter and quickly shot a deep 3-pointer.

The nothing but net 3-pointer was his only field goal of the second half but it gave Wetumpka its first lead, 61-60, since the second quarter.

“Nate and Malik work well together,” Thomas said. “They’ve been playing ball together ever since the middle school days and they have a comradery. Nate gives

musical theater. It’s fun. We stay super busy. Mr. (Jeff) Glass is my favorite teacher.”

Her mother said the theater program helped bring Gracie out of her shell. In ninth grade, Gracie had never sung in public before. Then she got the lead as Charlie in the school’s Willie Wonka production.

“I can remember my dad saying, ‘She can sing,’” Gigi said. “He had never heard her sing before.”

Gigi and Gracie are the third mother-daughter duo to be Elmore County’s DYW

unbeaten at 21-0.

Included in those wins are ranked wins like he got this weekend. He’s also taken down the No. 5-ranked wrestler in Class 5A, St. Clair’s Michael Gomer, with a first period pin.

With Elmore County not advancing in the duals postseason, Eyerly looks towards the individual state championship and is trying to repeat.

“He knows that these kids are out there trying to beat him,” Thornton said.

“He’s stepped up to the challenge. He just goes out there and takes care of business. He’s not a kid who goes out and thinks he’s so much better. He goes out there and fights and he wrestles well no matter who the opponent is.”

us such a threatening presence on the perimeter and Malik does the same down low. He can go up and get boards and put backs. We saw a little bit more of a two-man game here and it worked well (Saturday)” The two rivals meet again this week as both teams open Class 6A, Area 3 play. Stanhope will hit the road to Wetumpka on Friday for the first of their two area games.

It will be hard to live up to the hype this first game has set, but late wins are becoming the usual for Wetumpka over its rival. Dating back to last season, Wetumpka has won both of its last two games against Stanhope on a shot in the final seconds.

representative, joining Mandi Granger Barrett and mother Rita Griffith Granger and Melanie Taunton and mother Next week Gracie joins 42 other county representatives to compete to represent Alabama in the national program.

Sunday, Gracie was given a sendoff tea by DYW sponsors, the Phi Chapter of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society, which is comprised of current and retired educators in Elmore County.

Gracie said she has prepared for the program with

workshops for the interviews; that includes staying up to date on current news. Her schedule is full of rehearsals, two days of the program, lunches and dinners with host families and the Cattlemen’s Association meeting.

Gracie said she is looking forward to it all.

“I’m looking forward to going to the Governor’s Mansion and eating lunch with Gov. (Kay) Ivey,” Gracie said. “I’m also looking forward to making lifelong friends because they are all so sweet.”

The Wetumpka Herald

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Wednesday, January 10, 2024 • Page B3

Wetumpka wrestling finishes runner-up in regional duals

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor Postseason dreams are still alive for the Wetumpka wrestling team.

Wetumpka hit the road this weekend to Russell County for the AHSAA Class 6A, Region 2 duals tournament and walked away with a runner-up trophy after going 3-1 in the event.

The Indians beat Benjamin Russell, Park Crossing and Russell County in dominant fashion before falling to Pike Road, 36-33, in the championship match.

Despite the loss, both regional champion Pike Ross and runner-up Wetumpka advanced to the 6A quarterfinals. Wetumpka will make the short trek to Pike Road on Saturday and face Saraland at 12 p.m.

Pike Road will face Spanish Fort, with the winners of each match facing each other after the two initial matches.

“It was a good weekend,” Wetumpka coach Josh Highland said. “We had some good matches against Pike Road where we won the last time we faced them, but dropped them this time.

They were all tight matches. Our kids wrestled well but it's tough being in that spotlight for the first time for a lot of them. I think we will respond well this week in practice.”

Wetumpka was without one of its top four wrestlers with Zach Crosthwait, the Indians’ 190-pound wrestler, out with a back injury. But even with him sidelined, the senior trio of Noah Smith, Willie Cox and Christian Preston were all dominant in their four matches.

DALTON MIDDLETON | THE HERALD

Edgewood Academy’s Lindsey Brown scored 28 points to lead the Wildcats past rival Autauga Academy on Friday night.

SUBMITTED | THE HERALD

The Wetumpka wrestling team placed second in the AHSAA Class 6A, Region 2 wrestling tournament on Saturday.With the second place finish,Wetumpka advanced to the 6A quarterfinals in duals.

The trio went 4-0 as Smith had three pins and one technical fall by a score of 22-6, Cox pinned all four of his opponents he faced and Preston had three pins and one forfeit win.

The trio has been a mainstay in Wetumpka’s lineup. Both Cox and Preston are defending state champions, and they have a combined four losses between them this year. Smith had to miss last year’s state championship but could have placed and only has two losses this year.

All three wrestlers are University of Montevallo commits.

“Knowing that when they go out, they’re going to do their job really helps the younger guys we have in the lineup,” Highland said. “Those three guys are going to pick up where we left off and win big matches every time they go out there. They really help our team every match.”

While the team’s Big 3 dominated the mats, they weren’t the only ones.

Brantley Woodall and Tanner Adams also both went undefeated on the weekend. Brantley had three pins and one decision, a 9-8 win over Ben Russell’s Chantz Clark.

Adams also went 4-0 with three pins and one major decision, an 11-2 win over Russell County’s Isiah Kinsey.

The five undefeated wrestlers were impressive even in the team’s only loss. Against Pike Road, their five pins combined for 30 of Wetumpka’s 33 points. The other three points came via a 4-0 decision by Kaleb Bonasera.

“Both of those guys have been really good wrestlers for us this year,” Highland said of Woodall and Adams.

“They stepped up big time this weekend. Brantley even moved up a weight class a few times and did whatever I asked him to do and dominated. Tanner made the All-Region team and was huge for us too. They’re continuing to hit their stride at the right time for us.”

Edgewood boys win overtime thriller over Autauga

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor The Edgewood Academy boys never gave up Friday night.

Trailing by eight with less than two minutes to go, Edgewood put together a comeback for the ages as the Wildcats stunned Autauga Academy, 58-55, in overtime of the AISA Class AA, Region 1 opener.

Edgewood trailed 48-41 with 1:10 left on the clock when Johnny Groves hit two layups with an and-1 to cut the lead to two points.

After forcing a miss, Edgewood’s Drew Allison knocked in a game-tying jumper, then Autauga took the lead again, 50-48, with five seconds left.

The Wildcats then drove straight down the court and Brody Whitt was fouled trying to go for a layup. He made both free throws with one second left on the clock to send the game to overtime.

In overtime, Allison hit four free throws to go up by as many points and Groves earned a steal on the final possession to give Edgewood a 1-0 record in area play.

“For 36 minutes, they never stopped fighting,” Edgewood coach Scott Phillips said. “We didn't play well early but I knew if we could get to the second half and still be close, we’d have a chance.

We have some fighters. We could’ve given up down five in the final minute but they kept fighting. I’m proud of

DALTON MIDDLETON | THE HERALD

Edgewood Academy’s Johnny Groves scored a game-high 21 points to lead the Wildcats to an overtime win over rival Autauga Academy.

our guys.”

What has been one of Edgewood’s biggest issues turned out to be what won the Wildcats the game on Friday.

For the third-consecutive game, Edgewood has tallied 14 or more free throw misses.

In the first two games, Edgewood lost to ACA by one point after missing 18 free throws and then lost to Calvary Christian by two points after missing 14 free throws.

That was no different against Autauga. The Wildcats were only 23 of 41 from the charity stripe made them when it mattered most.

With two minutes left in regulation, Edgewood was 9 of 23 at the free throw line and just missed back-to-back shots to keep the lead at eight points.

But then Groves hit both of his free throw attempts on and-1s, then Allison hit 1 of 2 and Whitt’s two biggest

free throws of the night were both nothing but net with one second left.

In overtime, the Wildcats were 8 of 10 from the line.

Allison hit all four of his attempts, as did Brock Whitt.

Brody Whitt and Prescott Bonner each went 1 of 2.

“We’ve been working on free throws,” Phillips said. “It didn’t look like it early, but we have. We told the seniors it was time to step up and both Drew and Brody did.

Free throws are tough, but when it was time, they made the ones they needed to.”

Seven players scored for Edgewood in the game, and while Allison and Whitt’s free throws were the most influential points scored, the team wouldn’t have been there without Groves. He scored a game-high 21 points and couldn’t be stopped when he wanted to get to the paint and attempt a layup. He had 10 points going into the final

frame, and scored four early in the fourth quarter when the team was trying to keep the game close.

Grove’s two biggest shots came when Edgewood was down by eight. He drove straight to the basket, down the right side of the court and hit two layups and was fouled both times. He made both baskets.

“Johnny brings a lot to our team,” Phillips said. “He may not be the most skilled ball handler we have, but he will get after you in a second. He will scrap and get rebounds and get steals. The thing he can do is go past your defenders and hit layups. He gives us so much.”

Edgewood is now 8-12 on the year, but most importantly for the defending Class AA champions they are 1-0 in area play.

The title defense hasn’t been easy, and it won’t get any easier going forward.

On Tuesday, Edgewood hits the road to face former state champion coach Darryl Free and the Hooper Colts.

Nonetheless, Edgewood is on top for now and everyone is chasing them.

“Our season is now down to a 4-game season,” Phillips said. “This one was huge.

Now Edgewood is at the top and everyone is chasing us.

We have to keep it that way.

To start 1-0 when nobody really expected us to is big.

What was even bigger for us was how we won the game.

That was really important for us.”

Ribbon Cutting

Edgewood girls beat Autauga to open area play

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor The Edgewood Academy girls basketball team still isn’t at full strength, but that didn’t stop the Wildcats from cruising to an area-opening win over Autauga Academy on Friday night.

The two-time defending Class AA state champions beat Autauga, 57-22, without starter Avery White who was out with a sickness.

The Wildcats (18-3, 1-0) have barely played with all their starters at one time, but that hasn’t stopped them from winning 16 of their last 17 games.

“We wanted to come out with good energy and I think we did that,” Edgewood coach Brad Starks. “I think we did that. This being our first area game, we wanted to come out and make a statement and I think we did that. Especially with missing a starter, but some younger girls stepped up and filled in and did a good job in their roles.”

From the starting tip, the game was all Edgewood. The Wildcats scored on their opening possession and pushed that lead out to 8-0 as quickly as possible. Running a full court press defense, Edgewood recorded steal after steal and turned the defensive success into easy baskets on offense.

That was led mostly by Lindsey Brown and Lexie Smith, who combined for seven layups and 18 of the Wildcats’ 20 points in the first quarter.

The two slowed down in the second quarter, but Aubrey Newton scored five points and knocked down a big 3-pointer as Edgewood led 32-14 at the break.

“We want to force opposing teams to be uncomfortable,” Starks said. “Our defense isn’t about getting the ball out of their hands. It’s about making them make bad decisions that we can capitalize on. We do a good job of forcing bad passes and we can turn those into offensive points. We did a good job of that tonight.”

Brown and Smith did the majority of the scoring in the game, combining for 46 total points.

Brown, who is averaging over 25 points per game this season, led the entire game with 28. Smith added 18.

The only two other scorers were Madison Martin and Newton. Newton scored all five of her points in the second quarter while Martin hit four layups.Three of those came in the third quarter as Edgewood pushed its lead out nearly 30 points, 47-20.

Edgewood’s defense continued to be suffocating as Autauga scored only two points in the fourth quarter, their lowest of the game. Edgewood did not allow Autauga to score over eight points in the quarter all game.

It was the seventh time this season Edgewood has held an opponent to 22 points or less.

SPORTS CALENDAR THURSDAY, JAN. 11 HIGH SCHOOL BOWLING 4 Stanhope Elmore at Pike Road/Lanier, 4:30 p.m.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL 4 Jemison at Holtville, 4:30 p.m.

4 Edgewood Academy at Evangel-Alabaster, 4 p.m.

HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING 4 Wetumpka/Valley at Elmore County,TBD 4 Tallassee at Opelika, 5 p.m.

4 Pike Road at Stanhope Elmore, 5:30 p.m.

FRIDAY, JAN. 12 HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL 4 Elmore County at Marbury, 5 p.m.

4 Beauregard at Tallassee, 6 p.m.

4 Stanhope Elmore at Wetumpka, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY, JAN. 13 HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING 4 Holtville at PCA,TBD

SUBMITTED | THE HERALD

Over the holidays T-Mobile cut the ribbon on a new location at 4658 U.S. Highway 231. Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis joined T-Mobile employees and the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce to open the store offering cell phones, tablets and accessories.

TUESDAY, JAN. 16 HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING 4 St. James/Tallassee at Elmore County,TBD 4 Holtville at Stanhope Elmore,TBD 4 Montgomery Catholic/Beauregard/Ben Russell at Stanhope Elmore, 5:30 p.m.

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL 4 Edgewood Academy at Autauga Academy, 4 p.m.

4 Holtville at Isabella, 4:30 p.m.

4 Wetumpka at Sidney Lanier, 6 p.m.

4 Stanhope Elmore at Carver, 6 p.m.

Page B4 • Wednesday, January 10, 2024

STORM

Continued from A1

Hardy has taken this to heart. Through Lake Martin Storm Shelters, Hardy helps resident install their own storm shelters.

After an EF4 tornado ripped through the Beauregard community, killing 23 people in March 2019, the company installed 90 concrete shelters and steel safe rooms in the area — thankfully too as another tornado struck the same area last year.

“It is amazing how some of the tornados come back to the same areas,” Hardy said.

Lake Martin Storm Shelters installs Federal Emergency Management

Agency-approved shelters designed to withstand the largest tornadoes.

“FEMA used to say the safest place to be was underground,” Hardy said. “They have changed their stance on that. Now is the safest place to be is a compliant shelter where you can get into the quickest without having to go out into the weather.”

Lake Martin Storm Shelters manufactures all its above ground shelters in Alexander City.

The concrete shelters are designed to be installed outside, oftentimes adjacent to a home. The steel safe rooms are added in existing garages or during new construction. In all cases, the designs have been tested and approved

by FEMA.

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“Our safe room went through a 250 mph wind tunnel,” Hardy said. “It mimics an EF5 tornado.

Then there is a pressure test because there is so much pressure in a tornado. They put air in and suck it out. Nothing can come loose. It is very intense.”

Lake Martin Storm Shelters installs shelters across Alabama and most recently has been performing local installs in Tallassee. That’s because storm shelters are becoming more and more popular, Hardy said.

She said social media and storm trackers have increased curiosity and demand for shelters.

“I think they have become more popular because we know more about weather,” Hardy said. “We track weather more and better.”

Elmore County officials are constantly tweaking plans to respond to storms. But Elmore County Emergency Management Agency director Keith Barnett said it starts at home. He said residents need to do a few key things to be prepared for the majority of situations to face Elmore County.

On top of the list is a properly programmed weather radio.

“They are fairly inexpensive,” Barnett said.

“They can be purchased pretty much anywhere.

You need one at home and your business.”

Barnett said his agency can help with programming if needed, and having a secondary notification is also necessary.

Those could include ones from the Elmore County EMA apps or Baron SafT-Net.

The Wetumpka Herald

Barnett said outdoor sirens should not be depended on because of old technology and difficulty hearing them inside homes and during storms.

Having a small kit and storm plan is a necessity, and it should include where in the home to shelter and where to meet after an event. The kit should at least include some water and basic first measures.

“One of the most important things is something to wear on the head like a helmet and shoes,” Barnett said. “Most of the deaths in a storm come from being struck in the head. Many injuries happen to feet and legs as people try to leave the debris bath barefooted.”

Elmore County has a safer places to shelter program it activates as a tornado watch is issued.

Elmore County EMA has access to many public buildings and even private structures such as churches. Barnett said EMA checks with volunteers at private structures and publishes a list with addresses of available safer places to shelter on social media for each storm event.

After a storm Barnett said many think government agencies, especially FEMA, will come to the rescue. He said state and federal agencies do help when overall damage meets certain guidelines, but there are limits on the help.

“FEMA does not come in to make a property owner whole,” Barnett said. “If they meet all the requirements, they will help some. We encourage people not to depend on FEMA and have their own insurance.”

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Become an

BROWN

Continued from A1

Autauga Academy on Friday night.

She scored a career-high 40 points earlier in December, and has been held under 20 points only a handful of times.

“In your imagination, you always want to be someone big and you have to push yourself in real life to be that person,” Brown said.

“I feel like this accomplishment shows my determination and my drive to be where I am today. I got in the gym everyday and grinded and worked on my shot and different moves. I had a lot of help from mentors and I’ve just gotten better and better.”

Even for first-year coach Brad Starks, it’s no surprise Brown

more important to Brown is winning another state championship.

Edgewood is currently out to a 18-3 overall record this season and has won 16 of its last 17 games.

That’s with the team not playing a single game with its starting five.

Now getting close to full health, she is excited to get one final run at the postseason and is hoping to walk out of the Cramton Bowl next month with her 10th state championship ring.

“It’s been a great year so far,” Brown said. “You always want to go out your senior year with a bang and this year has been special. Averaging 25 points a game is not easy but it’s been a great ride so far. I really want to go out with another ring and win three in a row, and I feel like we can do it with this team we have.”

ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF

ADULT HUMAN RESOURCES CORRUPTION 1-800-458-7214 FOSTER dhr.alabama.gov/AFC CARE Continued from A4

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reached this milestone. Coaching her in volleyball and basketball so far, he knows she has the drive not many high school athletes have.

That’s shown as she’s scored 25 points per game in basketball, or had 290 kills and 181 aces in volleyball, or even hitting .441 with 47 stolen bases in softball.

“This is a mixture of her ability and her just being an unbelievably hard worker,” Starks said. “She doesn’t take days off. Even when she’s dealing with a small nagging injury, she can’t help herself. She has to go full speed. She has no off switch, and she gives it her all every single day in a game or in practice.”

The accomplishment is nice, and it puts into perspective just how hard Brown has worked in her career. But what would be even

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BEING JOBLESS IS DIFFICULT ENOUGH. Getting help to bridge the gap shouldn’t be.

Go to Labor.Alabama.gov to locate a center near you and bridge the gap of unemployment.

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for change by asking questions.

Local news is essential because no news is bad news. Citizens must know what’s going on around them. Bad things sometimes happen in quiet communities. The best way to make sure officials are working for you and your safety and well-being is to support your local newspaper.

Investigative journalists are your watchdogs and have the experience to closely examine what’s going on. Journalists do an outstanding job of upholding accountability.

Besides, people tend to act better when someone is watching, right?

There are other reasons to join the newspaper club and getting the accurate story is a

critical perk. In today’s social media society, people sometimes don’t realize when they share false information. Your local paper only reports accurate facts. When you reference your newspaper you don’t waste time following rabbit holes filled with what people “assume” they know.

You also prevent yourself from becoming part of the problem by sharing false narratives.

Equally as important, being an active reader means you have access to public and legal notices.

For example (only), if a landfill is being considered for your area, wouldn’t you want to know? If a bid for a project your business specialized in were coming available, wouldn’t you want the option to apply?

Local newspapers foster debate and connect the community. They

give citizens a voice and encourage civic engagement. Journalists are agents of change. If someone is passionate about an issue reported on by local media, the community feels the connection and inspiration to keep the dream alive.

Without coverage, there is no connection.

Subscribing to your local newspaper also allows you to know your community. It means following super-talented local athletes to the next level. It means you know who your local heroes are and how to celebrate them. It means you’re in the loop on progress. It means so much.

An informed community is a smart community. Similar to being a voter, everyone should be a reader. Don’t you need to know? Don’t you want to know?

Who wins in commu-

nities without a local newspaper? Those that operate in the dark.

Who loses in communities without a local newspaper? Everyone.

We can all agree we’d rather not lose so let’s come together and make sure we’re winners.

Thomas Jefferson once said he’d prefer to have “newspapers without government” to “government without newspapers.” We at TPI care about this community, and making it a better place is central to our mission. To continue our mission, we need people to subscribe and advertise.

Please call Sam at 256-234-4281 to subscribe today. You’ll be doing yourself a huge favor!

Tippy Hunter is the general manager of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.

The Wetumpka Herald

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Wednesday, January 10, 2024 • Page B5

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Visit our sister website: TallasseeTribune.com

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024 • Page B5

ClassiÄeds

Lake & River Phone (256) 277-4219 Fax (205) 669-4217 The Alexander City Outlook

Employment

classifieds@alexcityoutlook.com public.notices@alexcityoutlook.com

Reaching more than 22,000 households in Tallapoosa and Elmore counties

classifieds@thewetumpkaherald.com public.notices@thewetumpkaherald.com

The Dadeville Record

Job Opportunities

The Tallassee Tribune

General Notices

Job Opportunities

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 Angela Waites (334)252-0025 Ext. 101 Email: angela.waites@ learning-tree.org

Short Sales

Do you have available jobs?

Call 256.277.4219 to let others know about job opportunities at your business.

Rentals

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Apartments

CARETAKER NEEDED TO MAINTAIN MOBILE HOME COMMUNITY. SPANISH SPEAKING IS A PLUS. PLEASE SEND YOUR RESUME TO

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Bill Nichols State Veterans Home NOW-HIRING!!!

•RN/LPN Charge Nurse Full-Time 7pm-7am Sign-On Bonus Available!!

•CNA 3p-11p and 11p-7a

“Walk in Wednesday 10am-2pm to apply for any open position” Apply at:

hmrveteranservices.com Contact: Brandy Holman

256-329-0868

City of LaFayette Hiring Pick-up application at LaFayette City Hall Or contact (334)-864-7181 or 9LVLW FLW\RÀDID\HWWHDO FRP *The City of LaFayette is an Equal Opportunity Employer Mulder Church Seeks Full-time Director of Student Ministries for Spiritual Development of 7-12th Graders. Must love teens, have strong organization skills. Apply at info@mulderchurch.com

The Rockford Utilities Board is accepting applications for a skilled individual to work with the water, gas, and sewer system. Rockford Utility Boards office located at 9301 US Hwy 231 in Rockford.

256-935-4004.

•Receptionist Computer & other secretarial skills required.

•Assistant Tax Return Pro Computer skills & some tax knowledge required.

Positions in Tallassee.

334-201-0654 Need to find the right employee?

WE CAN HELP. Reach the Tallapoosa and Elmore County market for less using The Tallapoosa and Elmore County classifieds. Need a quick quote? Submit your ad online at www.tallasseetribune.com.

Community Events

Call 256.277.4219

Notices

Make a lifelong friend from abroad!

Karen at 1-800-473-0696(Toll Free) www.assehosts.com and www.asse.com/host or email us at: info@asse.com

General Notices Dadeville Housing Authority 845 Freeman Drive Dadeville, AL 36853 256-825-6004

Wind Creek Casino FOH/BOH Kitchen cleaning.

9pm-5am shift. $14-$18 hr. Full-time position w/40hrs guaranteed.

For immediate hire contact Creek Clean at (251)236-2609 or (559)862-5801

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PUZZLES & HOROSCOPE ARIES (March 21-April 19) You have a lot of ambitious drive today.

In addition to which, you have big ideas that could impact your earnings, your wealth or your possessions. Meanwhile, authority gures will listen to you, which means don’t hesitate to speak up. Think big and expect a miracle! Tonight: You’re noticed.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Some of you have ambitious ideas about travel plans. Others will use this same optimism and apply it to publishing, the media, medicine or the law. Whatever the case, you’re enthusiastic about what you want to implement, and you intend to do it! Tonight: Explore!

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Today you’ll be laughing all the way to the bank in discussions with others related to shared property, inheritances, insurance issues and debt. You will be decisive. You will also think big, and you won’t pull your punches. Expect the results you want.

Don’t hesitate to go after what you want.

Tonight: Check your nances.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) A partner or close friend, or perhaps someone you are introduced to, will be lively and impressive today. They might encourage you to interact with others, perhaps a group or an organization.

Whatever the case, they will be convincing. Be prepared for this. Tonight: Cooperate.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) This is an extremely productive day for you! You will impress bosses and VIPs. You also have lots of energy to make things happen. You might delegate to others as well. Teamwork and involvement with groups will get you the best results today. Tonight: Get organized.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Accept all invitations to party and schmooze with others today. You won’t regret it. Make time to enjoy sports events, social outings, plays, movies, the theater and fun activities with kids. It’s a great day to be on vacation. Romance might be hot and sexy! Tonight: Play!

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) You have ambitious ideas about how to make home improvements at this time.

Fortunately, you have the nancial or practical support from others that you will need to make this happen. You also might entertain or be involved with a group at your home. Exciting choices!

Tonight: Relax.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) This is a fast-paced day and a successful one for you because you’re optimistic and ready to share your ideas. You will impress others. And they will love your energy and enthusiasm. (Of course, enthusiasm is contagious.) Today you’re an example of the power of positive thinking!

Tonight: Conversations!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) This is an excellent day at work or with whatever you do, because ultimately, you will probably boost your earnings. Or you might reorganize and take better care of your possessions. Whatever the case, you’ll be happier at the end of the day because you did something and you’re better off for it. Congratulations! Tonight: Check your belongings.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Today the Moon is in your sign lined up with ery Mars in your sign, and they are both dancing with lucky Jupiter. This means you’re PowerPoint on steroids!

Whatever you do will make a positive impact because of your condence and enthusiasm. Think big! Tonight: You win!

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) You are effective in dealing with others today, especially people in group situations. This might arise with issues related to your family or your home. Or it could be your dealings with younger, creative people. Whatever the case, you will be successful as an inuencer. Tonight: Solitude.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) This is a wonderful day to socially schmooze with others by enjoying good times with friends or being involved in groups, clubs, conventions or conferences. Your communication skills are tops today! Not only that, you will be able to encourage and inspire others with your positive enthusiasm. Tonight: Friendships.

Page B6 • Wednesday, January 10, 2024

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CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Page B6 • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024

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Public Notices

Public Notices

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.

This property will be sold on an “as is, where is” basis, subject to any easements, encumbrances, and exceptions UHÀHFWHG LQ WKH PRUWJDJH DQG those contained in the records RI WKH 2I¿FH RI WKH -XGJH RI Probate in the county where the above-described property is situated. This property will be sold subject to the right of redemption of all parties entitled thereto and subject to any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, whether or not now due and payable). This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure.

The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation.

NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing, Mortgagee/Transferee THE BELOW LAW FIRM MAY BE HELD TO BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, UNDER FEDERAL LAW. IF SO, ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Rubin Lublin, LLC, Attorney for Mortgagee/Transferee 11 N. Water Street, Suite 10290, Mobile, AL 36602 Telephone Number: (877) 8130992 Case No. SHP-23-059351 rlselaw.com/property-listing

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Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 3, 10 and 17, 2024 223688 Put your ad here call 256.277.4219

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LQ WKH 2I¿FH RI WKH -XGJH RI 256-245-0707 or 36525 US Probate of Elmore County, AlaHighway 280 Sylacauga, AL ATTENTION: VIAGRA and bama, in Plat Book 12, at Page 35150 CIALIS USERS! A cheaper 46. alternative to high drugstore For informational purposes only, Or on FB @ Level One ELDT prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 the property address is: 379 + FREE Shipping! 100% Foxdale Road, Millbrook, AL PUBLIC NOTICE 36054-1555 SJA, INC. DADEVILLE, AL ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS 6KRXOG D FRQÀLFW DULVH EHWZHHQ NOTICE OF SALE UNDER the property address and the FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: POWER legal description the legal deFORECLOSURE NOTICE HR Manager [Full-Time, On-Site] scription will control. Said propReq’d: Bach’s Deg. Pref: Major in HR Mgmt. or Business WHEREAS, default has oc- erty will be sold subject to any Admin. curred in the performance outstanding ad valorem taxes Job Duties: Personnel Mgmt, Employee Compensation and of the covenants, terms and (including taxes which are a conditions of a mortgage from lien, but not yet due and payBenefits Mgmt. and other HR Role and Responsibilities.

LISA HUDGINS HARRIS, AN able), the right of redemption ---------------------------------------------------------UNMARRIED WOMAN to of any taxing authority, all outManufacturing Supervisor [Full-Time, On-Site] standing liens for public utilities MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC Pref: Min. of 3 yrs previous supervisory exp. in the REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, which constitute liens upon the Automotive or Mfg. industry.

INC., AS MORTGAGEE, AS property, any matters which NOMINEE FOR HOMECOM- might be disclosed by an acINGS FINANCIAL, LLC (F/K/A curate survey and inspection of Manufacturing Team Leader [Full-Time, On-Site] HOMECOMINGS FINANCIAL the property, any assessments, Pref: Min. of 2 yrs previous supervisory exp. in the NETWORK, INC.), on the 5th liens, encumbrances, easeAutomotive or Mfg. industry. day of March, 2007, said mort- ments, rights-of-way, zoning JDJH UHFRUGHG LQ WKH 2I¿FH RI ordinances, restrictions, special the Judge of Probate of Elmore assessments, covenants and Mail Resume to 274 Thweatt Industrial Blvd, County, Alabama, on March 13, any matters of record including, Dadeville, AL 36853 2007, in Deed/Mortgage Book but not limited to, those supeor email to sjahr@sejinamerica.com 2007, Page 16517, Elmore ULRU WR VDLG 0RUWJDJH ¿UVW VHW County, Alabama Records, said out above. Said property will be SJA, INC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Mortgage having subsequently sold on an “as-is” basis without been transferred and assigned any representation, warranty, to NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint or recourse against the aboveMortgage Servicing, by instru- named or the undersigned. ment recorded in the aforesaid The successful bidder must 3UREDWH 2I¿FH QRWLFH LV KHUH- SUHVHQW FHUWL¿HG IXQGV LQ WKH by given that the undersigned amount of the winning bid at NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint the time and place of sale. AlMortgage Servicing, as Mort- abama law gives some persons gagee/Transferee, under and who have an interest in property by virtue of the power of sale the right to redeem the propercontained in said mortgage, will ty under certain circumstances. sell at public outcry to the high- Programs may also exist that est bidder for cash on the Front help persons avoid or delay the Steps of the Elmore County foreclosure process. An attorCourthouse, 100 East Conners ney should be consulted to help Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092 in you understand these rights Wetumpka, Elmore County, Al- and programs as a part of the abama, on February 15, 2024, foreclosure process. during the legal hours of sale, This sale is subject to postponeall of its right, title, and interest ment or cancellation. in and to the following described Barclays Mortgage Trust 2022real estate, situated in Elmore RPL1, Mortgage-Backed Securities, Series 2022-RPL1, by County, Alabama, to-wit: LOT 2, BLOCK A, ACCORD- U.S. Bank National Association, ING TO THE PLAT OF GRAND as Indenture Trustee OAKS PLAT NO. 1, AS THE Mortgagee/Transferee SAME APPEARS OF RECORD Ingle Law Firm, PA IN THE OFFICE OF THE 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite JUDGE OF PROBATE OF EL- 160, Huntersville, NC 28078 MORE COUNTY, ALABAMA, IN (980) 771-0717 Attorneys for Mortgagee/TransPLAT BOOK 12, AT PAGE 78.

Said legal description being feree 23570 - 37032 controlling, however the property is more commonly known as Wetumpka Herald: 4746 CAMP GRANDVIEW RD, Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 224432 MILLBROOK, AL 36054.

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Instruction

Public Notices Public Notices

SUDOKU ANSWERS

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed on June 8, 2016

by Calvin A Lake, a married person, originally in favor of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and recorded in RLPY 2016 at Page 26788 RQ -XQH LQ WKH 2I¿FH RI the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. LOGS Legal Group LLP, as counsel for Mortgagee or Transferee and under and by virtue of power of sale contained in the said mortgage will, on February 29, 2024, sell at public outcry to the highest bidder at the main entrance of the Elmore County, Alabama, Courthouse in the City of Wetumpka, during the legal hours of sale, the following real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to wit: Commence at an iron pipe marking the NE corner of Section 6, TI8N, RI8E, Elmore County, Alabama; thence S 14°02’52”W, for 2760.04 feet to an iron pin on the South ROW of a county paved road and the point of beginning of the parcel described herein; thence S 6°54’W, 238.69 feet to an iron pin; thence S 00°17E, for 438.39 feet to an iron pin; thence S 89°50’E, for 407.86 feet to an iron pin; thence S 00°12’E, for 571.04 feet to an iron pin; thence along an old fence S 87°49’W, for 427.24 feet; thence N 00°17’W, for 1026.84 feet to an iron pin; thence N 6°54’E, 238.69 feet to an iron pin on the South ROW of said road; thence along South ROW, N 89°43’E, for 20.0 feet to an iron pin and the point of beginning. Said parcel lying and being in the NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section 6, T18N, R18E, Elmore County, Alabama, and containing 6.00 acres, more or less.

For informational purposes only, the property address is: 143 Wildberry Ln, Wetumpka, AL 36092.

ANY PROPERTY ADDRESS PROVIDED IS NOT PART OF THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY SOLD HEREIN AND IN THE EVENT OF ANY DISCREPANCY, THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION REFERENCED HEREIN SHALL CONTROL. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. Furthermore, the property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the mortgagee, nor the RI¿FHUV GLUHFWRUV DWWRUQH\V employees, agents or authorized representative of the mortgagee make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition, including those suggested by Code of Ala. (1975) § 35-4-271, expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars and no/100 LQ FHUWL¿HG RU FDVK funds at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price must be paid in FHUWL¿HG IXQGV E\ FORVH RI EXVLness on the next business day WKHUHDIWHU DW WKH /DZ 2I¿FH RI LOGS Legal Group LLP at the address indicated below. LOGS Legal Group LLP reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder, or to reschedule the sale, should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due.

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.

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and its successors and assigns Mortgagee or Transferee LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107/ 23-023134 Attorneys for Mortgagee or Transferee Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 224097 Do you have available jobs?

Call 256.277.4219 to let others know about job opportunities at your business.

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE 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: A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT Relating to Elmore County; to repeal Section 45-26-240, Code of Alabama 1975, relating to the board of equalization.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA: Section 1. Section 45-26-240, Code of Alabama 1975, relating

Public Notices

g to compensation of the members of the Elmore County Board of Equalization, is repealed.

Section 2. This act shall become effective immediately.

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 20, 27, 2023, Jan. 3 and 10, 2024 BILL PUBLIC NOTICE FORM OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that Covington Flooring Company, Inc., Contractor, has completed the Contract for Gym Floor Replacement at Holtville High School, 23-157 at 10425 Holtville Road Deatsville, AL 36022 for the State of Alabama and the Elmore County, Deatsville City, Owner(s), and have made reTXHVW IRU ¿QDO VHWWOHPHQW RI VDLG Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify McKee & Associates, Inc. 631 S. Hull Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Covington Flooring Company, Inc. 709 1st Ave. N Birmingham, AL 35203 Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17, 24 and 31, 2024 COMPLETION PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DAVID ALLEYN ANDERSON, DECEASED. CASE NO. 2023-323 NOTICE OF FILING OF WILL FOR PROBATE TO: DAVID JAMES ANDERSON and HEIDI LEE ANDERSON, WHOSE WHEREABOUTS ARE UNKNOWN AND WHO ARE POSSIBLE NON-RESIDENTS OF THE STATE OF ALABAMA AND WHO ARE NEXT OF KIN OF DAVID ALLEYN ANDERSON, DECEASED: AND TO: ANY OTHER UNKNOWN NEXT OF KIN OF DAVID ALLEYN ANDERSON, DECEASED; AND TO: ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTY YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on December 21, 2023, a certain paper in writing purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of DAVID ALLEYN AN'(5621 GHFHDVHG ZDV ¿OHG in the Probate Court of Elmore County, Alabama by JOHN MICHAEL KOCH, Petitioner, requesting that such Last Will and Testament be admitted to Probate and Record and that the Petitioner be named as Personal Representative of such Estate. This notice of Filing of Will for Probate is given to you as a next-of-kin of DAVID ALLEYN ANDERSON or as an interested party.

Unless an objection to admission to Probate and Record of such Last Will and Testament is submitted by you in writing to this Court within ten (10) days of WKH ¿QDO SXEOLFDWLRQ RI WKLV QRtice, the Court will proceed with considering such Petition without further notice to you.

Name and Address of Attorney for Petitioner: JOSEPH K. BAMBURG ATTORNEY AT LAW 4031 US HWY 231 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36093 334-839-5596 JOHN THORNTON JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 3, 10 and 17, 2024 EST/ANDERSON, D. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ALESHIA JA’KAIL BALL, CASE NO: 2023-316 DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters of Administration over the Estate of ALESHIA JA’KAIL BALL, deceased, having been granted to GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. on December 20, 2023

by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF ALESHIA JA’KAIL BALL, DECEASED Name and Address of Administrator: GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL, JR. LLC P O BOX 638 MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334285-9444 Jerry@GADanielLaw. com Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 27, 2023 Jan. 3 and 10, 2024 EST/BALL, A. PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE 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: A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT

The Wetumpka Herald

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

THE WETUMPKA HERALD

Public Notices Relating to Elmore County; to amend Sections 45-2681.01, 45-26-230.01, and 4526-242.01, Code of Alabama 1975; to further provide for the compensation of the judge of probate, sheriff, and revenue commissioner; and to repeal Section 45-26-81, Code of Alabama 1975, relating to the salary of the judge of probate.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA: Section 1. Sections 45-2681.01, 45-26-230.01, and 45-26-242.01, Code of Alabama 1975, are amended to read as follows: “§45-26-81.01 (a) Effective on July 1, 2020, the The base annual salary of the Judge of Probate of Elmore County shall be ninety-eight thousand dollars ($98,000) one hundred twenty thousand dollars ($120,000) per year, payable in equal monthly installments from the general fund the same manner and at the same time as other employees of the county. The salary provided by this section shall supersede any salary, expense allowance, or other compensation provided to the judge of probate prior to July 1, 2020. (b) Notwithstanding any other law, in addition to any other compensation provided to the judge of probate, the judge of probate shall continue after July 1, 2020, to receive any cost-ofliving or other salary increases granted to county employees RU HOHFWHG RI¿FLDOV LQ WKH FRXQW\ and as approved by the county commission or any salary increases as otherwise granted and approved by the county commission.” “§45-26-230.01 &RPPHQFLQJ RQ WKH ¿UVW GD\ RI WKH QH[W WHUP RI RI¿FH DIWHU $SULO 1, 2018, the Sheriff of Elmore County shall receive a salary in the amount of one hunGUHG ¿IWHHQ WKRXVDQG GROODUV ($115,000) per year. (a) The Sheriff of Elmore County shall receive a salary in the amount of one hundred twenty thousand dollars ($120,000) per year. (b) Any individual who has previously served one full term as Sheriff of Elmore County shall receive a salary in the amount of one hundred thirty thousand dollars ($130,000) per year. (c) Any individual who has previously served two full terms as Sheriff of Elmore County shall receive a salary in the amount of one hundred forty thousand dollars ($140,000) per year. (d) Any individual who has previously served three or more full terms as Sheriff of Elmore County shall receive a salary in WKH DPRXQW RI RQH KXQGUHG ¿IW\ thousand dollars ($150,000) per year. (e) The salary salaries provided by this section shall be in lieu of any other salary provided by general or local law and shall be paid in the same manner and at the same time as other county employees.” “§45-26-242.01 (a) Effective on July 1, 2020, the revenue commissioner shall receive an annual expense allowance of sixteen thousand dollars ($16,000) per year payable in equal monthly installments from the general fund of the county until September 30, 2021. The expense allowance shall be in addition to all other compensaWLRQ DQG EHQH¿WV JUDQWHG WKH revenue commissioner and may be treated as compensation for retirement purposes. Effective October 1, 2021, the expense allowance provided by this subsection shall be repealed. (b)(a) Effective on October 1, 2021, the The revenue commissioner shall receive a base annual salary of QLQHW\ ¿YH thousand dollars ($95,000) one hundred twenty thousand dollars ($120,000) per year payable in equal monthly installments as provided by law, plus any additional compensation provided by general law pursuant to subdivision (3) of Section 11-2A-3 the same manner and at the same time as other employees of the county. The salary provided by this subsection shall supersede any salary, expense allowance, or other compensation provided to the revenue commissioner prior to July 1, 2020. (c)(b) Notwithstanding any other law, in addition to any other compensation provided to the revenue commissioner, the revenue commissioner shall continue after July 1, 2020, to receive any cost-of-living or other salary increases granted to county HPSOR\HHV RU HOHFWHG RI¿FLDOV LQ the county and as approved by the county commission or any salary increases as otherwise granted and approved by the county commission.”

Section 2. Section 45-26-81, Code of Alabama 1975, relating to the salary of the judge of probate, is repealed.

Section 3. This act shall become effective on October 1, 2024.

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 20, 27, 2023, Jan. 3 and 10, 2024 BILL 2 PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SHERRY ARDENE BRINKMAN, DECEASED CASE NO. 2023-330 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to CAROL ANN RATTAN as Executor on the 4th day of January, 2024 by the Honorable John Thornton, Judge of Probate of said County in said State, notice is hereby given that all persons having

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Public Notices

g p g claims against said Estate are required to present same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

CAROL ANN RATTAN EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF SHERRY ARDENE BRINKMAN, DECEASED. Name and Address of Attorney: Regina B. Edwards, Esq. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, P.C. 109 E. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 EST/BRINKMAN, S. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT S. GRESHAM, JR., DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-313 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters Testamentary in the Estate of ROBERT S. GRESHAM, JR., deceased, having been granted to CAROL GRESHAM WILLIAMS and JILL JONES on the 21st day of December, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

CAROL GRESHAM WILLIAMS and JILL JONES CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT S. GRESHAM. JR., DECEASED Attorney of Record for Co-Personal Representatives: LINDA BENSON ATTORNEY AT LAW PO BOX 780818 TALLASSEE, ALABAMA 36078 334-283-5800 Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 27, 2023, Jan. 3 and 10, 2024 EST/GRESHAM, R. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARION LEE HORNSBY, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-331 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters Testamentary in the Estate of MARION LEE HORNSBY, deceased, having been granted to JENNIFER JENNINGS BENNETT on January 5th, 2024 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

JENNIFER JENNINGS BENNETT PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MARION LEE HORNSBY, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: ED PARISH, JR. THE PARISH LAW FIRM PO BOX 52 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36101-0052 323 ADAMS AVE MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36104 334-263-0003 Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 EST/HORSBY, M. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM ERROL LAW, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-318 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters Testamentary in the Estate of WILLIAM ERROL LAW, deceased, having been granted to TARVIS R. LAW on December 28, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

TARVIS R. LAW PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM ERROL LAW, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: JIM L. DEBARDELABEN ATTORNEY AT LAW POBOX 1136 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-265-9206 Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 EST/LAW, W. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BILLY JACK LINDSEY, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-326 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters Testamentary in the Estate of BILLY JACK LINDSEY, deceased, having been granted to BILLY WADE LINDSEY and STEVEN CRAIG LINDSEY on the 5 day of January 2024

by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the

Public Notices

y p same to the Court or the same will be barred.

BILLY WADE LINDSEY and STEVEN CRAIG LINDSEY CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ESTATE OF BILLY JACK LINDSEY, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Co-Personal Representatives: MICHAEL S. HARPER ATTORNEY AT LAW 213 BARNETT BLVD PO BOX 780608 TALLASSEE, ALABAMA 36078 334-283-6855

Wednesday, January 10, 2024 • Page B7

Public Notices PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JEFFREY TODD STRINGER, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024-312 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of JEFFREY TODD STRINGER, deceased, having been granted to DANA FULLER Wetumpka Herald: STRINGER, on the 3rd day of Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 January 2024 by John ThornEST/LINDSEY, B. ton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is herePUBLIC NOTICE by given that all persons and parties having claims against IN THE PROBATE COURT said Estate are required, within OF ELMORE COUNTY, the time allowed by law, to presALABAMA ent the same to the Court or the IN THE MATTER same will be barred.

OF THE ESTATE OF NELLIE DANA FULLER STRINGER, CAROL MARTIN, DECEASED ADMINISTRATOR OF THE CASE NO: 2024-001 ESTATE OF JEFFREY TODD NOTICE OF FILING STRINGER OF PETITION Regina B. Edwards, Esq. FOR SUMMARY The Law Firm of Edwards & EdDISTRIBUTION OF ESTATE wards, P.C. Attorney for Administrator TO ALL INTERESTED PAR- 109 E. Bridge Street TIES, Petitioner, ANTHONY Wetumpka, AL 36092 -$0(6 0$57,1 ¿OHG ZLWK WKH (334) 514-1011 3UREDWH &RXUW RI (OPRUH &RXQW\ $ODEDPD D 3HWLWLRQ IRU 6XP- Wetumpka Herald: PDU\ 'LVWULEXWLRQ RI WKH (VWDWH Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 of NELLIE CAROL MARTIN, EST/STRINGER, J. '(&($6(' SXUVXDQW WR &RGH PUBLIC NOTICE RI $ODEDPD 6HFWLRQ HW VHT DV DPHQGHG IN THE PROBATE COURT $OO SHUVRQV RU LQWHUHVWHG SDUWLHV OF ELMORE COUNTY, KDYLQJ DQ\ FODLP WR VXFK (VWDWH ALABAMA RU KDYLQJ DQ REMHFWLRQ WR WKH IN THE MATTER 6XPPDU\ 'LVWULEXWLRQ RI VXFK (VWDWH PXVW PDNH WKH VDPH OF THE ESTATE OF SHARON MICHELLE TOWNE, NQRZQ LQ ZULWLQJ LQ DQ LQVWUXDECEASED PHQW ¿OHG ZLWK WKLV FRXUW ZLWKLQ CASE NO. 2023-327 WKLUW\ GD\V RI WKH GDWH RI NOTICE TO CREDITORS WKLV 3XEOLFDWLRQ ,I QR FODLP RU OF ESTATE REMHFWLRQ LV ¿OHG ZLWK WKH &RXUW ZLWKLQ VXFK WKLUW\ GD\V WKH &RXUW PD\ HQWHU DQ 2UGHU DX- Letters Testamentary on the WKRUL]LQJ VXFK 6XPPDU\ 'LVWUL- Estate of said decedent having been granted to MASON EXWLRQ CHRISTIAN TOWNE as PerJOHN THORNTON sonal Representative on the 28 JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA day of December 2023 by the 1DPH DQG $GGUHVV RI $WWRUQH\ Honorable JOHN THORNTON, Judge of Probate of said Counfor Petitioner: ty in said State, notice is hereby 5(*,1$ % (':$5'6 (64 7KH /DZ )LUP RI (GZDUGV given that all persons having (GZDUGV 3& (DVW %ULGJH claims against said Estate are required to present same within Street the time allowed by law or the :HWXPSND $/ same will be barred.

MASON CHRISTIAN TOWNE PERSONAL REPRESENTA:HWXPSND +HUDOG TIVE OF THE ESTATE OF -DQ SHARON MICHELLE TOWNE, EST/MARTIN, N. DECEASED. Name and Address of Attorney: PUBLIC NOTICE Regina B. Edwards, Esq. The Law Firm of Edwards & EdIN THE PROBATE COURT wards, P.C. OF ELMORE COUNTY, 109 E. Bridge Street ALABAMA Wetumpka, AL 36092 CASE NO.: 2021-242 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CAROL Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 MAYRENE SCHRAM, EST/TOWNE, S. DECEASED. NOTICE OF FILING PUBLIC NOTICE OF PETITION TO DETERMINE HEIRSHIP IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, TO: RHONDA JEAN HOUCK ALABAMA BURNEY; MARTHA JEAN IN THE M ATTER ROBERTS KAAPANA OF THE ESTATE OF BARNES; JOSEPH BYRANT STEVEN C. ZEISER, ROBERTS; ESTATE OF LOUCASE NO: 2023-315 ISE C. ROBERTS MCDANDEL DECEASED C/O GLEN A. DAVIS; ESTATE NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF LOUISE C. ROBERTS OF ESTATE MCDANDEL C/O TERESA CAROL; ESTATE OF LOUISE Letters of Administration over C. ROBERTS MCDANDEL the Estate of STEVEN C. ZEISC/O PAUL DAVIS; ESTATE ER, deceased, having been OF LOUISE C. ROBERTS granted to GERALD A. DANMCDANDEL C/O CHERYL IEL, JR. on December 20, 2023 DAVIS; ESTATE OF MARK by John Thornton, Judge of SWEATT C/O LISA DOZIER; Probate of Elmore County, AlESTATE OF MARK SWEATT abama, notice is hereby given C/O BLAKE SWEATT; JOYCE that all persons and parties havANNETTE ROBERTS BROCK; ing claims against said estate WILLIAM TIMOTHY DUKE; are required, within the time TINA RENEE DUKE MONEY; allowed by law, to present the JIM CHRISTOPHER MERCER; same to the Court or the same BRIAN L. FERNALD; TAWNI will be barred.

J. FERNALD MATCHETT; SU- GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. ADZANNE A. FERNALD; FRED MINISTRATOR OF THE ESLEON FERNALD JR.; AND, TATE OF STEVEN C. ZEISER, JAMES CALDERONE AND DECEASED ANY OTHER UNKNOWN IN- Name and Address of AdminisDIVIDUALS OR INTERESTED trator: GERALD A. DANIEL. JR. PARTIES THAT MIGHT HAVE LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL, AN INTEREST IN THE ES- JR. LLC P O BOX 638 MILLTATE OF CAROL MAYRENE BROOK. ALABAMA 36054 SCHRAM, DECEASED. 334-285-9444 Jerry@ YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED GADanielLaw.com that on the 2nd day of August, 2023, a Petition to Determine Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 27 Heirship regarding the Estate 2023, Jan. 3 and 10, 2024 of Carol Mayrene Schram was EST/ZEISER, S. ¿OHG LQ WKH 3UREDWH &RXUW RI (OPRUH &RXQW\ $ODEDPD E\ PUBLIC NOTICE Petitioner, Garry S. McAnnally, requesting that a determination NOTICE OF MORTGAGE EH PDGH DV WR ZKRP VKRXOG EH FORECLOSURE SALE the heirs of the Estate of Carol 0D\UHQH 7KLV QRWLFH RI WKH ¿Oing of the Petition to Determine Default having been made in the Heirship is given to you as an payment of the indebtedness interested party to the Estate of secured by that certain Mortgage executed by Anthony D. Carol Mayrene Schram. ,W ZDV 25'(5(' E\ WKLV &RXUW Haynes,a single man, to Mortthat said petition is set for hear- gage Electronic Registration LQJ RQ WKH WK GD\ RI )HEUX- Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), (solely ary, 2024 at 10:00 o’clock a.m. as nominee for Lender, Fairway LQ WKH 3UREDWH &RXUW RI (OPRUH Independent Mortgage Corpo&RXQW\ $ODEDPD ORFDWHG DW ration, and Lender’s successors E. Commerce Street, Wetump- and assigns), dated the 14th ND $ODEDPD IRU WKH SXU- day of October, 2016, which pose of hearing of said petition Mortgage was recorded in the and the taking of testimony in 2I¿FH RI WKH -XGJH RI 3UREDWH support thereof. Any person of Elmore County, Alabama, interested in this matter should LQ 5HDO 3URSHUW\ %RRN DSSHDU EHIRUH WKLV &RXUW DW WKH DW 3DJH VDLG 0RUWJDJH herein referenced date, time, having been transferred and assigned by Mortgage Electronand location. ic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), (solely as nominee JOHN THORNTON for Lender, Fairway IndepenJUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA dent Mortgage Corporation, and Lender’s successors and asName and Address of Attorney signs) to Alabama Housing Finance Authority by virtue of that for Petitioner: certain Assignment of Mortgage D. Jason Britt GDWHG 'HFHPEHU DQG Stone & Britt, LLC Attorneys & Counselors at Law UHFRUGHG LQ VDLG 3UREDWH 2I¿FH LQ 5HDO 3URSHUW\ %RRN DW 114 South Main Street 3DJH 7KH XQGHUVLJQHG 3RVW 2I¿FH %R[ Alabama Housing Finance Au:HWXPSND $ODEDPD thority as Assignee of said Mort gage will, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in Wetumpka Herald: said Mortgage, sell at auction -DQ DQG to the highest bidder for cash EST/SCHRAM, C. before the main entrance of the Do you have available jobs? Elmore County Courthouse in WKH &LW\ RI :HWXPSND $ODEDPD Call 256.277.4219 to let others know during the legal hours of sale on February 21, 2024, the real about job opportunities property described in said Mortat your business. gage, which said description is

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2024 • Page B7

Public Notices

g g p hereby referred to and made a part hereof, said property being situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: /RW %ORFN % DFFRUGLQJ WR WKH PDS RI &RWWRQ /DNHV 3ODW No. 11, as said map appears of UHFRUG LQ WKH 2I¿FH RI WKH -XGJH RI 3UREDWH RI (OPRUH &RXQW\ $ODEDPD LQ 3ODW %RRN DW 3DJH Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumVWDQFHV 3URJUDPV PD\ DOVR 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.

7KLV VDOH LV PDGH IRU WKH SXUpose of realizing the mortgage debt, together with all expenses of the sale, including a reasonable attorney’s fee. &$3(// +2:$5' 3 & %RZG\ - %URZQ (VT 6RXWK 3HUU\ 6WUHHW 0RQWJRPHU\ $ODEDPD 2XU )LOH 1R $77251(<6 )25 $66,*1(( $/$%$0$ +286,1* ),1$1&( $87+25,7< $66,*1(( 7KH :HWXPSND +HUDOG -DQ DQG FC/HAYNES PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage dated November 7, 2003, executed by Michael W. Scarbrough, a married man, joined by his wife Melissa L. Scarbrough (Michael W. Scarbrough and Michael Wayne is one and the same person), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., solely as nominee for MortgageAmerica, Inc., which mortgage was recorded on November 13, 2003, in RLPY Book 2003, Page 94547, of the mortgage records LQ WKH 2I¿FH RI WKH -XGJH RI Probate of Elmore County, Alabama and which mortgage was duly transferred and assigned to MCLP Asset Company, Inc., notice is hereby given that pursuant to law and the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the undersigned will sell at public outcry, to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the North Door entrance to the Elmore County Courthouse at Wetumpka, Alabama, during the legal hours of sale on February 15, 2024, the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: LOT 14 OF REDLAND DOWNS SUBDIVISION NO. 1 AS RECORDED IN THE PROBATE OFFICE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA, IN PLAT BOOK 3$*( 68%-(&7 72 ALL EASEMENTS, RESTRICTIONS, RESERVATIONS, PROVISIONS, COVENANTS, BUILDING SET-BACK LINES AND RIGHTS OF WAY OF RECORD. ALSO ATTACHED TO AND MADE A PART OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED REAL PROPERTY: MFG HOME: MAKE/MODEL FLEETWOOD/470B SERIAL NUMBER GAFL335AB88611 YEAR 2004 This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage as well as expenses of foreclosure. This property will be sold on an “as is, where is” basis, subject to any easements, encumbrances, and exceptions UHÀHFWHG LQ WKH PRUWJDJH DQG those contained in the records RI WKH RI¿FH RI WKH -XGJH RI Probate of the County where the above-described property is situated. This property will be sold without warranty or recourse, expressed or implied as to condition, title, use and/or enjoyment and will be sold subject to the right of redemption of all parties entitled thereto.

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 successful bidder must tender full funds at the conclusion of the sale in the form of a FHUWL¿HG FKHFN PDGH SD\DEOH or endorsed to Padgett Law Group. No personal checks will be accepted. To this end you PXVW EULQJ VXI¿FLHQW IXQGV WR outbid the lender and any other ELGGHUV ,QVXI¿FLHQW IXQGV ZLOO not be accepted. Amounts received in excess of the winning bid will be refunded. Padgett Law Group reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidders should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due.

MCLP Asset Company, Inc. Transferee 5REHUW - :HUPXWK MPP Padgett Law Group 4245 Balmoral Drive SW, Suite 101 Huntsville, AL 35801 Attorney for Mortgagee Wetumpka Herald: -DQ DQG FC/SCARBROUGH PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF: AUSTIN COOMBS ROSEMARIE COOMBS CASE No. JU-2012-411.15 JU-2012-409.15 NOTICE OF PETITION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS TO: SCOTT MICHAEL COOMBS (Father) You are hereby given notice that

Public Notices

yg D SHWLWLRQ KDV EHHQ ¿OHG E\ WKH (OPRUH &RXQW\ 'HSDUWPHQW RI +XPDQ 5HVRXUFHV UHTXHVWLQJ WKDW \RXU SDUHQWDO ULJKWV EH WHUPLQDWHG WR AUSTIN COOMBS, born on August 13, 2009, at &DSH &DQDYHUDO +RVSLWDO LQ &RFRD %HDFK )ORULGD DQG ROSEMARIE COOMBS, born on February 01, 2008, at Houston 0HGLFDO &HQWHU LQ :DUQHU 5REins, Georgia.

You are hereby given notice WKDW \RX DUH UHTXLUHG WR ¿OH DQ $QVZHU ZLWK WKH &OHUN RI WKH -XYHQLOH &RXUW DQG ZLWK WKH 3Htitioner’s attorney, Jonathan S. 6FKOHQNHU $ODEDPD 6WDWH 'HSDUWPHQW RI +XPDQ 5HVRXUFHV /HJDO 2I¿FH 3 2 %R[ 0RQWJRPHU\ $ODEDPD ZLWKLQ IRXUWHHQ GD\V RI WKH GDWH RI WKH ODVW SXEOLFDWLRQ RI WKLV QRWLFH RU D GHIDXOW MXGJPHQW FDQ EH HQWHUHG DJDLQVW \RX $ ¿QDO KHDULQJ KDV EHHQ VHW IRU January 31, 2024, at 9:00 A.M. at the Elmore County Judicial Complex in Wetumpka, Alabama. <RX PD\ DSSHDU DQG FRQWHVW WKH VDPH LI \RX FKRRVH (/025( &2817< ',675,&7 &/(5. :HWXPSND +HUDOG -DQ DQG JU-2012-411.15 Sell your home in the classifieds call 256.277.4219

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice to Contractors Federal Aid Project No. STPAA-HSIP-0014(557) ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA Sealed bids will be received by the Director of Transportation DW WKH RI¿FH RI WKH $ODEDPD 'HSDUWPHQW RI 7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ 0RQWJRPHU\ $ODEDPD XQWLO $0 RQ -DQXDU\ DQG DW WKDW WLPH SXEOLFO\ RSHQHG IRU FRQVWUXFWLQJ WKH 5HVXUIDFLQJ 0LFUR 6XUIDFLQJ 6HDO &RDW 7\SH ,, DQG 7UDI¿F 6WULSH RQ 65 IURP WKH MXQFWLRQ RI 65 WR WKH MXQFWLRQ RI 65 LQ 7DOODVVHH WR LQFOXGH 7UDI¿F 6LJQ ,PSURYHPHQWV DW WKH LQWHUVHFWLRQ RI &5 &KHURNHH 7UDLO /HQJWK PL 7KH WRWDO DPRXQW RI XQFRPSOHWHG ZRUN XQGHU FRQWUDFW WR D FRQWUDFWRU PXVW QRW H[FHHG WKH DPRXQW RI KLV RU KHU TXDOL¿FDWLRQ FHUWL¿FDWH 7KH (QWLUH 3URMHFW 6KDOO %H &RPSOHWHG ,Q 7KLUW\ ¿YH :RUNLQJ 'D\V $ '%( &RQWUDFW 2EOLJDWLRQ ,V 5HTXLUHG $ %LGGLQJ 3URSRVDO PD\ EH SXUFKDVHG IRU 3ODQV PD\ EH SXUFKDVHG IRU SHU VHW Plans and Proposals are availDEOH DW WKH $ODEDPD 'HSDUWPHQW RI 7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ &ROLVHXP %RXOHYDUG 5RRP ( 0RQWJRPHU\ $/ &KHFNV VKRXOG EH PDGH SD\DEOH WR WKH $ODEDPD 'HSDUWPHQW RI 7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ 3ODQV DQG 3URSRVDOV ZLOO EH PDLOHG RQO\ XSRQ UHFHLSW RI UHPLWWDQFH 1R UHIXQGV ZLOO EH PDGH 0LQLPXP ZDJH UDWHV IRU WKLV SURMHFW KDYH EHHQ SUH GHWHUPLQHG E\ WKH 6HFUHWDU\ RI /DERU and are set forth in the adverWLVHG VSHFL¿FDWLRQV 7KLV SURMHFW LV VXEMHFW WR WKH FRQWUDFW ZRUN KRXUV DQG 6DIHW\ 6WDQGDUGV $FW DQG LWV LPSOHPHQWLQJ UHJXODWLRQV &DVKLHU¶V FKHFN RU ELG ERQG IRU RI ELG PD[LPXP PDGH SD\DEOH WR WKH $ODEDPD 'HSDUWPHQW RI 7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ PXVW DFFRPSDny each bid as evidence of good IDLWK 7KH EUDFNHW UDQJH LV VKRZQ RQO\ WR SURYLGH JHQHUDO ¿QDQFLDO LQIRUPDWLRQ WR FRQWUDFWRUV DQG ERQGLQJ FRPSDQLHV FRQFHUQLQJ WKH SURMHFW¶V FRPSOH[LW\ DQG VL]H 7KLV %UDFNHW VKRXOG QRW EH XVHG LQ SUHSDULQJ D ELG QRU ZLOO WKLV EUDFNHW KDYH DQ\ EHDULQJ on the decision to award this FRQWUDFW 7KH %UDFNHW (VWLPDWH 2Q 7KLV 3URMHFW ,V )URP 7R

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WEDNESDAY • JANUARY 10, 2024

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Vol. 33, No. 2

LMRA LOOKS TO ENHANCE ITS ORGANIZATION

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter With Jodie McGirt wrapping up her first year as Lake Martin Resource Association president, the organization has hit multiple accomplishments and has more in store.

INITIATIVES

McGirt explained LMRA has three strategic initiatives: boater safety, advocacy and environmentalism.

Boater safety includes the buoy management program, which takes up 60% of the budget. ALEA decides where the buoys go and LMRA’s volunteer team places the buoys out on the lake.

One of LMRA’s upcoming events with buoy management is Lake Martin Young Professionals’ Polar Plunge on Jan. 13. The proceeds from the Polar Plunge go toward Light Up the Lake, which is an effort to place lights on the lake’s buoys.

Another program is boater training. LMRA works with both Russell Marines and ALEA for the training. It not only helps people with getting boat licenses, but the training also provides hands-on experience.

McGirt said going into next year she would like to expand on the training and add even more hands-on experience.

LMRA also started working with Children’s Harbor to provide boater training for the camps.

The other initiative is advocacy. McGirt said that largely has to do with ensuring Lake Martin keeps its water quality. She said it’s one of the cleanest lakes in the state and LMRA wants to help maintain that.

The final initiative is envi-

FILE | THE OBSERVER

ABOVE: Don Clark, left, and Neal Butler remove a damaged buoy to install and repair some of the nearly 400 buoys on Lake Martin. Buoy management takes up 60% of LMRA’s budget.

BELOW: One of Lake Martin Resource Assoication’s biggest clean up initiatives is Renew Our Rivers. Although the organization has many more programs throughout the year to aid the lake.

ronmentalism. The main environmental efforts are the trash clean ups. LMRA aids with Alexander City’s second Saturday cleanups and the organization also hosts clean ups around Kowaliga and the Red Hill community.

The big clean is Renew Our Rivers, which is also a partnership with Alabama Power. This year’s LMRA had six to eight dumpsters around the lake, and McGirt said volunteers gathered a significant amount of trash.

Some of the other programs the organization participates in is the Tallapoosa County Water Festival, and LMRA will soon be collecting undecorated, real Christmas trees to create fish habitats out of.

MOVING FORWARD

McGirt said as people can see through the initiatives

LMRA’s partnerships from Russell Lands to Alabama Power to Children’s Harbor are vital for the organization.

Going into 2024, she said she wants to continue to enhance those relationships.

On top of that, LMRA recently moved to an electronic customer management system in order to streamline communication with members and potential members. McGirt said she wants to find ways to better organize volunteers around the lake.

With LMRA’s board of directors, the organization has three to four board members moving to emeritus status and there are six new board members coming on next year as well.

McGirt said her vision is to carry on the heritage and the mission of LMRA and then expand upon it.

“Our goal this year is really to get better community engagement all the way around the lake — enlisting fire departments, enlisting other organizations that serve the community and figure out how we can partner a little bit better,” she said. “Our board members are going to take the lead on a lot of the committees

and then we are going to enlist a lot of volunteers and better manage our volunteers through the customer management system as well.”

McGirt said she is continuing to work on tapping into key individuals around the lake, but overall, she is excited about what they have and what they have coming.

Elmore County football faces tough 2024 slate in 2024.

In this region, Holtville (7-4), Beauregard Elmore County coach (6-5), Elmore County Kyle Caldwell will face (8-3), Valley (7-4), his former team in 2024.

Central Clay (10-1) and The Panthers released Marbury (2-9) all made their 2024 football the postseason last seaschedule last week and son.

Elmore County opens the The only team to upcoming season on the miss the playoffs was road against Chelsea.

Sylacauga, which was Caldwell, who has eliminated on a 39-38 coached Elmore County loss to Beauregard.“It’s for the last two seasons, definitely a pretty tough was the offensive coordiregion,” Caldwell said. nator at Chelsea for four “I think every single seasons from 2018-2021. team lost key players This is the first-ever from their teams this meeting between Elmore year, even Clay Central, County and Chelsea. but they still have a “It’ll be a cool expelot of talent returning. rience for the kids,” Obviously they’re the Caldwell said. “That guys everybody in our FILE | THE OBSERVER Shelby County/Birming- Elmore County’s football team will be in a tough region as six of the seven teams made the playoffs last year. In non-region play, region is chasing. We ham-Metro area has have to have a great Elmore County will travel to Chelsea and Carroll-Ozark while hosting Chilton County and Tallassee. some really, really good offseason program to football. I’m trying to est region in football last year and was the No. 4 With about 370 stuneed each other. It’s put ourselves in a posiget our kids some more year, Chelsea went 2-8 seed in a tough region dents, Tallassee will good for the students tion to win the region. exposure to some difand missed the playoffs. before falling in the first move down to Class 4A and the alumni. These We have to work harder ferent areas around the The four teams that did round of playoffs. and will not be region kids grow up playing than everyone else.” state. I think it’ll be a make the playoffs out “Hopefully these opponents with the Pan- against each other and good experience. Coming of that region – Thompgames will prepare us thers anymore. since I’ve been here, 2024 FOOTBALL from 7A, they’ll have a son, Hewitt-Trussville, for the playoffs,” CaldDespite that, the it’s been a really good, SCHEDULE good game speed.”

Vestavia Hills and well said. “I feel like two teams have played clean rivalry. You Aug. 23 - at Chelsea Chelsea has moved Hoover – all advanced to we’re at the point after every season since always want to keep Aug. 30 - Tallassee down to Class 6A this at least the second round. two years where we 1971 and that was not those.”

Sept. 6 - at Carroll-Ozark year from 7A, but the Other non-region need to schedule a little going to change for this With Tallassee movSept. 13 - Holtville* school still has almost games for Elmore Coun- bit tougher of a schedupcoming season. ing out, Elmore County Sept. 20 - at Beauregard* 600 more students in its ty will be Chilton Coun- ule. We need to play “It’s an important welcomed in Marbury Sept. 27 - BYE daily enrollment than ty, which is coming off some tougher teams to game for both commuand Holtville to the Oct. 4 - Central Clay Elmore County. a 4-6 record and missed prepare ourselves for the nities,” Caldwell said. region, both of which County* Elmore County, at 385 the playoffs in Class 6A, playoffs.”

“Each community can’t the Panthers played Oct. 11 - at Valley* students, is the fourth Region 3, and against As for other games, really survive by them- regularly However, Oct. 18 - Marbury* smallest 5A school.

Class 5A teams Carkeeping Tallassee on the selves as much as both it means six reigning Oct. 25 - at Sylacauga* Playing in what could roll-Ozark and Tallassee. schedule was a must for communities want to playoff teams will be Nov. 1 - Chilton County be argued was the toughCarroll went 4-7 last Caldwell. say they could. They fighting for four spots * - region game

By DALTON MIDDLETON Spor ts Editor

First Place in General Excellence Best small daily newspaper in Alabama

THE

WEDNESDAY

First Place in SPORTS, PAGE PAGE A7 11 General Excellence Lighting Best small City daily Lightingthe theway wayfor forAlexander Alexander City&newspaper &Lake LakeMartin Martinsince since1892 1892 Taylor, Turner Alabama escapes in Alabama February 1,1,2023 December 2021 Vol. Vol.131, 129,No. No.1096 www.alexcityoutlook.com www.alexcityoutlook.com $1.00 $1.00 Auburn named after to all-star game 4 overtimes

LOCAL, PAGE10 A3 LOCAL, PAGE West namedcontinues new Russell Marine Maincharity Street director annual donation

Arts & Entertainment

THE WEDNESDAY Alex City resident wanted relation to high-speed chase Sportplex may beinnew BRHS location SUBMITTED

by Sandlin Jr. for a traffic violation. Detective Division is investigating THE OUTLOOK Easterwood said the car chase the incident, and, in addition to This photo began at approximately 11 a.m. arrest warrants in other jurisdicdepicts Alan Police are still searching for a Saturday and continued along U.S. tions, future criminal charges are Sandlin Jr., man who led officers on a highHighway 280 headed into Coosa also expected. who has been identified as speed chase throughout Alexander County. While attempting to elude The vehicle accident stema suspect in City and Coosa County over the law enforcement, Sandlin Jr. caused ming from Sandlin Jr. fleeing law connection weekend. a wreck with another vehicle. enforcement is now under investiwith a highThe Alexander City Police Sandlin Jr. then proceeded to flee gation as well by the Alabama Law speed chase Department has identified Alan into a wooded area as his vehicle Enforcement Agency.

BY SIRI HEDREEN over the Sandlin of Alexander City, in came to a stop on Highway 280.

According to a statement, the MultimediaJr., Reporter weekend. Police connection with a high-speed police According to Easterwood, sever- Coosa County Sheriff's Office conare still seeking The Alexander City Board of Education is "very, very pursuit that occurred Saturday. al local law enforcement agencies tinued the pursuit upon receiving a information close" to securing a location Benjamin Russell According to Alexander City for a were then called in to assist Alexcall stating that Sandlin Jr. was seen on his High School campus at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex, Police Chief James Easterwood, ander City police units with the in a gas station. whereabouts. all but ensuring the abandonment of a new school on Sandlin Jr. of initially eluded police searchHighway for Sandlin As he left the gas station, the the corner U.S. Highway 280 and State 63. Jr., but he could after Alex City police officers not be located.

Alexander City Schools superintendent Dr. Keith attempted to stop a vehicle driven Easterwood said the ACPD’s See CHASE, Page A6 Lankford broke the news Tuesday at the chamber of commerce's annual State of Education luncheon, stating he was in talks with Mayor Woody Baird and parks and recreation director Sonny Wilson on placing the school within the city property. Lankford said he hopes to break ground on the building project in March. going to present to the city council as well as BY"We're SIRI HEDREEN the countyReporter commission so we can get this thing kicked Multimedia off," Lankford said. "We are close to making Benjamin The Alexander Citythe Board Education "very, very Russell High School, newofschool at theis Sportplex, close"toto securing a location for a Benjamin Russell come fruition."

High Schoolnamed campustheat baseball the Charles E. Bailey Lankford fields as the Sportplex, proposed all but ensuring the abandonment of a new school At on location, with an entrance off Elkahatchee Road. the corner U.S. Highway and aState Highway 63. present, theofbaseball fields 280 border patch of forest Alexander Schools superintendent where Russell City Medical Center plans to buildDr. its Keith new Siri Hedreen / The Outlook Lankfordcenter. broke the news Tuesday at the chamber of geriatric commerce's annual State of Education luncheon, stating The Charles E. Bailey Sportplex baseball elds, where the Alexander City Board of Education now intends to build its new BenjaSee SPORTPLEX • Page A10 he was in talks with Mayor Woody Baird and parks and min Russell High School campus. recreation director Sonny Wilson on placing the school within the city property. Lankford said he hopes to break ground on the building project in March.

"We're going to present to the city council as well as the county commission so we can get this thing kicked off," Lankford said. "We are close to making Benjamin at the Lake Martin Event Birmingham was going to real sure? I’m like in the Russell High School, the new school at the Sportplex, BY CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer Center. The meeting of buy that club and make concrete here,’” Hosey come to fruition."

Lankford named the baseball fields as the proposed For two years Tina Lake Community Church it another club. Rudy got said. “God told me, ‘I’ve would grown you here and now location, with an entrance off Elkahatchee Road. At Hosey has felt the tug of and Hosey has the two on saved and said he ABIGAIL MURPHY | THE I’mOUTLOOK ready for you to do never make it a club again.” present, the baseball fields border a patch of forest the Lord leading her to a a new call for God. Alibi’s never became a ministry.’”

Hosey has left a place of TOP RIGHT: The pieceswasn’t/ The Outlook where Russell Medical Center plans to build its new new church.

Siri Hedreen Hosey sure God she was comfortable church but it didn’t return geriatric center.

For two years the Lake donated wereofnow multiple where thebuild calling as a place at just a few weeks ago and to its The Charles E.Church Bailey Sportplex Cityroots Board of Education intendsdifferent to its newwould Benjahas baseball elds, where the Alexander See SPORTPLEX • Page A10 Community lead.

Someone who has arrived at a new church entertainment. min Russell High School campus.

BY CLIFF WILLIAMS mediums from acrylic to watercolor. been looking for a permabeen attending Lake Hosey was comfortvenue at the Rodeo Club Staff Writer nent home.

LEFT: As aCommunity 501c nonprofit Church for the the congregation as it transforms to another able in TOP TPI Staff Their paths have now Sandra Fuller's efforts as Tallapoosa County last yeartohad area church —donations mission of community ser- of another organization, thebeen invitcrossed at the Rodeo Club tourism director have gotten the attention of Gov. ing Hosey. But it was at vice. It’s a transformation more than two decades.

A familiar face has returned to Tallapoosa where patrons have been Kay Ivey. funeral where Hosey “I prayed shelter real hardare thattaxadeductible. of an establishment servPublishers. pulling stools up to the bar Fuller has been leading the efforts of the Tallapoosa was setoftothe sing and talked else ing alcohol that Hosey has God had something Lizi Arbogast Gwin,towho previously servednatural BELOW: Members for but not for much at the Lake Martin Event planned real the sure?mother I’m like in the was going BY years, CLIFF WILLIAMS County Commission promote the area’s of Malia for me,” Hoseyto with seen before in Tallapoosa Birmingham as sports editor for The Alexander Out-now help longer. concrete here,’” Staff Writer buy that club and make Center.

The meeting of resources and activities to tourists City and will animal shelter staff cut the who ribbon Stariha, helps Hosey lead County — at Alibi’s on said. “God started stirring look, has beencourse namedofthe new Ivey managing editorFuller For five decades the Lake Community Church init my said.

“God told me, ‘I’ve another club.

Rudy got guide a state study. appointed the Praise Team at Lake soul again a couple For two itsyears Tina Highway 49. for the grand opening ceremony. club has seen fair share of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. grown you here and now saved and said he would and Hosey has the two on to the ‘Hospitality and Tourism Committee.’ The Community Church, when “God was trying to do years ago.”

Hosey has felt the tug of of dancing and more to A born and raised she State describes I’m ready you to do make again.” a new callthing for God. committee is part of Virginian, the Alabama Department werefor answered.

Hosey feltit aa club calling to prayers the same he is doing never the Lord leading her to a tunes played by the likes herself as a sports fanatic and an avid WashAlibi’s neverand became Hosey has left a place of Education course of study review for career and the pews movea ministry.’” here, there,” Hosey said.of leave new church. of Mickey Gilley, Billy God she was comfortable forward Hosey wasn’t sure church in buther it service didn’t return See CHURCH • Page A10 ington Capitals and Detroiteducation.

Lions fan. Gwin technical But Fuller’s with two years Lake “I sang there for like 10 to its roots RayForCyrus and the others. as a still placehadof where the calling would at just a few weeks ago and attended Virginiainput Commonwealth started moreUniversity than a year ago but Hosey Community Church has years. The gentleman who God, Hosey has even been one lead. Someone who has entertainment. arrivedit at new church

BY CLIFF WILLIAMS through committees on the matter owned justa passed away, questions.

See EDITOR, Page A6 of been looking for on a permaof the entertainers stage been attending Lake Hosey was comfortvenue at the Rodeo Club Staff Writer developing skills for the hospitality “I was like, ‘Are you Rudy Stewart. A man from nent home. as it transforms to another able in the congregation Community Church for the industry during formativeCounty years Their paths have now Sandra Fuller's efforts as the Tallapoosa mission of community ser- of another area church — last year had been invitof have education. crossed at the Rodeo Club tourism director gotten the attention of Gov. ing Hosey. But it was at vice. It’s a transformation more than two decades.

“I’ve been speaking with educawhere patrons have been Kay Ivey.

“I prayed real hard that a funeral where Hosey of an establishment servtion professionals area high pulling stools up to the bar Fuller has been leading the effortsatofour the Tallapoosa ing alcohol that Hosey has God had something else was set to sing and talked schools,toespecially witharea’s a hospitalfor years, but not for much Reported 11/30/21 of @ 5 Malia p.m.

Fuller County Commission promote the natural with theonmother planned for me,” Hosey seen before in Tallapoosa ity curriculum about they help are longer. resources and activities to tourists andwhat will now County — at Alibi’s on said. “God started stirring Stariha, who helps lead doing,” said. “I’ve also been conversations For five decades the guide aFuller state course of study.

Ivey in appointed Fuller in my soul again a couple the Praise Team at Lake Highway 49.

BY WILLIAM MARLOW with those in the hospitality industry about the skills club has seen its fair share to the ‘Hospitality and Tourism Committee.’ The Community Church, when “God was trying to do years ago.”

Multimedia they seek Reporter inisemployees.” of dancing and more to LACEY HOWELL committee part of the Alabama State Department answered.

Hosey felt a calling to prayers were the same thing he is doing previously worked the for Lake Martin 256.307.2443 tunes played by the likes ofFuller Education course of study at review career and here, there,” Hosey said. leave the pews and move laceyshowell@gmail.com Area Economic Development Alliance.

Fuller now of Mickey Gilley, Billy Federal agenciestechnical are currently assisting Tallapoosa See5295 CHURCH Page Highway 280,• Alex City,A10 AL education.

But Fuller’s forward in her service with “I sang there for like 10 Ray Cyrus and others. recruits touristsafter to the area and previously helped County residents issuing a disaster declaration input started more than a year ago years. The gentleman who God, but Hosey still had Hosey has even been one recruit industry to the area but said the are simfor the region last week. through committees ontwo the matter of owned it just passed away, questions. of the entertainers on stage ilarThe in Federal their needs.

Emergency Management Agency developing skills for the hospitality “I was like, ‘Are you Rudy Stewart. A man from “It’s all workforce development (FEMA) hasabout recognized Tallapoosa County as a regardless major years industry during the formative of whatarea segment will be working in,” Fuller disaster following a Jan. 12 long-track tornado ofthey education. said. that swept through the“I’ve countybeen and surrounding areas. speaking with educaMary of the governor’s FEMAKatherine representatives surveyed the county’s tionPittman professionals at ourstorm areaoffice high believes Fuller’s experience will bringa hospitalwisdom especially with damage thisschools, month, according to Tallapoosa Reported on 11/30/21 @ 5 p.m.

Fuller earlier developed through experience toabout thedirector committee. ity curriculum what they are County Emergency Management Agency High Low “Our goal in the “I’ve governor’sbeen office conversations is to recruit doing,” Fuller Jason Moran, andsaid. based on thealso assessmentindetermined individuals who can provide insight into bridging with thoseCounty in thequalified hospitality industry the skills Tallapoosa for both publicabout and indiour system to the workforce and we theyeducation seek in employees.” vidual assistance.

LACEY HOWELL believe [Fuller] can do just that,” Pittman said.

Fullerrepresentatives previously began worked at the Lake Martin 256.307.2443 FEMA the county Fuller’s appointment is visiting as Alliance. a representative of laceyshowell@gmail.com MORE ONLINE Area Economic Fuller now beginning Jan. 27 inDevelopment an attempt to provide aid to 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL Alabama’s Third Congressional to area thehelped comCliff Williams / The Outlook To check out a video from the Coosa County animal shelter’s grand opening, 6 54708 90050 8 recruits tourists to the area andDistrict previously mittee a yeartolong term but withsaid multiple visitShikoski us online atpart www.alexcityoutlook.com takes in a Lake Community Church service Sunday at the Lake Martin Event USPS Permit # 013-080 recruitfor industry the area the twomeetings are sim- Marge See DISASTER, Page A6 inilar Montgomery each month.

Center and Rodeo Club. in their needs.

“It’s all about workforce development regardless of what segment they will be working in,” Fuller said.

Mary Katherine Pittman of the governor’s office and Your Loved Ones! believes Fuller’s experience will bring wisdom •Home-like Environment • Specialized Dementia Care Unit developed through experience to the committee.

Call or Low or High Reported on 01/31/23 @ 2 p.m.

•Physical,Call Occupational and Speech Therapy Services “Our goal in the governor’s office is to recruit go online go online individuals who can provide insight into bridging to browse, artin e Mand to browse, buy our education system to the workforce we High buy orLow LLaaivikkeng L sell! or sell! believe [Fuller] can do just that,” Pittman said.

LACEY HOWELL Fuller’s appointment is as a representative of 256.307.2443 CLASSIFIEDS laceyshowell@gmail.com Alabama’s Third Congressional District to the comCliff Williams / The Outlook & Record The Outlook d Classifi l 90050 fieds d8 DAMS EALTH & EHAB 6 54708 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL Sharemeetings mittee for a year long term with multiple rden 1555 Htakes ILLABEE 329-0847 Marge Shikoski partSinTREET a Lake• (256) Community Church service Sunday at the Lake Martin Event USPS •Permit # 013-080 256.277.4219 the Ga WWW.ALEXCITYOUTLOOK.COM 256.277.4219 in Montgomery each month.

Center and Rodeo Club.

BY WILLIAM MARLOW Multimedia Reporter

Alex City Schools plan LOCAL, PAGEannounces 10

SPORTS, PAGE 11

Russell Marine continues Alabama escapes to abandon build on US 280, cityLighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892 annual charity donation officials still need to approveDecember plan 1, 2021 Vol. 129, No. 96 www.alexcityoutlook.com $1.00 Auburn after 4 overtimes

Page C1

LIZI GWIN

Managing Editor

Sportplex may be new BRHS location

Wednesday, January 10, 2024

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Alex City Schools announces plan to abandon build on US 280, city officials still need to approve plan

County tourism Decades long honky-tonk transforms into a church director appointed TPI welcomes face as to familiar state committee

HELP

Tallapoosa County tourism ON THE WAY Publishers is director appointed to state committee getting hip managing editor

Decades long honky-tonk transforms into a church Coosa County opens new animal shelter

I

Lake Martin

Lake Levels

483.05

Disaster recovery center to

’ve always considered myself kinda open in Tallapoosa County cool and kinda not.

I try to keep up with the trends of the times, and I’ve always been fairly tech savvy at work. But when it comes down to it, I’m really just a nerd at heart. And there’s nothing wrong with that. For the record, I also kinda hate technology — I didn’t even have Venmo until like six months ago.

As I get older, I feel even more of for Lake Martin’s Bestout Source NewsTallapoosa and Information. touch. With young guns like Publishers’ staff, I’ve got to keep with the changing times.

So what’s cool in the tri-county area Tallapoosa Publishers covers? Well, I’ll tell you: A lot.

When the brain child behind our new Arts & Entertainment section Samantha Himes, our audience development director, approached me about this, I had the most fleeting thought, “Would we have enough to cover?”

Boy, was I wrong about that. There is so much going on in Tallapoosa, Elmore and Coosa counties, and we never want anyone to have the excuse of saying, “There’s nothing to do in this town.” And that brings us to our Arts & Entertainment section.

From venue spotlights to artist features, from food and drink reviews to a full calendar of upcoming events, these pages are going to be filled with all there is to do in the arts and entertainment world of our tri-county area.

These pages are for one person and one person only, and that’s you: the reader. If you want to see something on these pages, let’s talk. I’m always wanting to talk about new venues, musicians who are doing big things, upcoming art shows, professional workshops. Whatever it is, I want to hear about it.

In just one short month, the staff has put together these pages and we’re excited to learn we’ll have no problem with having enough to cover. If anything, there’s too much to do around here. Plus, when you tack on the food and drink reviews, there are plenty of places around our counties you’re going to want to tour soon.

In another effort to “be cool,” as they say, Tallapoosa Publishers is always stepping up its game on social media. You may have noticed an uptick in our Instagram posts as we bring you daily updates from our staff, and we look forward to branching into the wide world of TikTok more in 2024.

This is all about a new Outlook for a new year, and it starts by bringing this community one place to go for all things live music, art shows, foodie news and events geared more toward adults. Our pages will still be filled with kid-friendly stories, and our calendar will still be chock full of community events — some may even overlap on these pages. But once a month, you can expect an Arts & Entertainment section to grace these pages and we want to know what you’re looking for.

Drop us a line.

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Recycle Your Stuff for Cash in the Classifieds Call or go online to browse, buy or sell!

The Outlook & Recordd Classifi l fieds d WWW.ALEXCITYOUTLOOK.COM • 256.277.4219

KOWALIGA IDOL

RETURNS THANKS TO NEW PARTNERSHIPS soul-searching and decided to continue,” Kennedy said.

Modeled after the national t almost didn’t happen.

American Idol competition, Kowaliga Idol was set to Kowaliga Idol starts with the end after its 15th year due to Golden Ticket rounds. Those are losing its main venue with the anywhere from 20 to 25 karaoke closing of the Rodeo Club in try-out nights. Judges then award Dadeville. the “Golden Ticket” to anyone However, thanks to a few they believe should advance. new partnerships and some very From there, there are differencouraging fans and particient rounds of karaoke and even pants, Kowaliga Idol is back for some original music opportuniNo. 16. ties. Some nights singers have to “In truth, we were thinking choose from a list of songs and last year would be the last year,” other rounds, they’ll have to sing said John Kennedy, owner of certain genres or bands.

Lake Broadcasting, which runs “The big thing that made it the contest. “To go a little deeper really cool last year was they had to the reason why was because to perform a track live to a band we didn’t have the Rodeo Club at Lil Bit of Texas,” Kennedy but we wanted to finish out and said. “They actually sang with do our 15th season. Going into the band in the finals and that it, we didn’t know how it would will continue this year. That was go. Coming out of it, there was a big difference because it can be so much success we had to do it a lot harder singing with a band again.” than to a (karaoke) track.”

Partnerships with Martin’s at So far, Kennedy said there are Lake Martin and Lil Bit of Texas 17 Golden Ticket nights booked in Wetumpka have been the key with the first ones beginning in to that success. mid-January. The competition is “Due to the high success over the course of several weeks. with those two partners and the Some of the Golden Tickets all-time participation rate with already booked include venues our most singers, we did some like JR’s Sports Bar and FermenBy LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

I

Lizi Arbogast is the managing editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. She can be reached via email at lizi.gwin@alexcityoutlook.com or via phone at 434-962-9420.

FILE | THE HERALD

Alexander City’s Baylie Kizziah was one of the past winners of Kowaliga Idol.

‘I play other people’s misery’ Stevens’ blood for years. As a teenager Stevens’ favorites were AC/DC Led Zeppelin and Pink Listening to music in Allan Floyd. A few decades later, the Stevens’ car can be quite the list has changed, but mainly adventure. through additions.

“If I put my iPhone on shuffle, “I still really like AC/DC, Led there is no telling what will come Zeppelin and Pink Floyd,” Steout,” Stevens said. “It could vens said. “The stuff you listen be something from the Muppet to when you are younger tends Movie. It might be Beethoven or to be the same stuff you listen to it could be some old EPMD from as you get older. But I broadened the 80s. Maybe old hip hop.” my horizons. I listen to a lot of Music has been in Allan Allman Brothers, love the GrateBy CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

ter’s on the Green in Alexander City, Copper’s Grill at Stillwaters, Martin’s in Dadeville and even Fermenter’s in Sylacauga.

“We’re looking forward to going to The Funky Goat and some other newer venues,” Kennedy said. “We’re adding Castellucio’s on the Lake and having a special night there.”

One of the things Kennedy prides himself and the competition on is the level and number of venues. The competition has expanded and due to the success of some past winners, Kowaliga Idol attracts singers from around East Central Alabama. Kennedy expects singers from Phenix City, Auburn, Lake Harding, Lake Martin, Wetumpka, Prattville and Montgomery in addition to the Tallapoosa County locals.

“The biggest part of Kowaliga Idol that makes it work is we give amateur singers to intermediate singers an opportunity to get on a bigger stage with better sound than they’d normally get, then challenge them to get outside their bubble,” Kennedy said.

“We want them to get outside of the regular songs they’d sing at a different karaoke.”

Millbrook musician has a love of all music

ful Dead, Men at Work from the 80s, Willie Nelson.”

There have been many concerts and live shows too. Stevens’ love of music turned into playing as a teenager. He first picked up the drums and fiddled with the guitar. Stevens settled in the River Region in the late 1990s and started playing music again while working as an X-Ray SUBMITTED | THE HERALD technician.

Allan Stevens is a Millbrook resident who has a love for music.

“You can’t play drums around He plays covers at all the local places but if you ride with him, See MUSICIAN, Page C2 there is no telling what might come from his playlist.

Page C2 • Wednesday, January 10, 2024

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

The Wetumpka Herald

MUSICIAN

Continued from C1

here and hope to make money,” Stevens said. “There are a couple of really good players. They are that good.”

Instead, Stevens picked up the guitar again and worked some on his vocals.

He got good enough to join up with a few other local musicians to form Wishbone more than a decade ago.

“I was a utility player,” Stevens said.

“I would play some drums from time to time —bass, guitar.

I quickly realized that I wasn’t going to make money playing the drums. I can sing OK and pass playing guitar.”

Stevens left Wishbone with another musician and is now on his own. He plays at the Coosa River Craft House, the Autauga Creek Craft House and Common Bond Brewers in Montgomery among other local venues.

“I love playing Rex in Millbrook because it is close to the house,” Stevens said.

“Basically I love to play anywhere nearby.”

Stevens hosts an open mic night at the Coosa River Craft House every other Monday.

But don’t ask him to play anything original; Stevens only plays covers.

“I’ve been asked if I write anything, the answer is always no,” Stevens said. “No good art comes from having a great life.

I have a great life, a wife of 27 years, children. I play other people’s misery. All good art comes from it.”

FILE | THE HERALD

Plungers will run into Lake Martin during a recent polar plunge in support of Lake Martin Resource Association.

Annual Polar Plunge to benefit LMRA

By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Writer The eighth annual Polar Plunge will be held Saturday at Kowaliga Restaurant.

Every year, Lake Martin Young Professionals hosts this event to raise money to support the Lake Martin Resource Association and its efforts to make regular improvements around the lake.

Tickets are on sale for $20 for plungers, and $25 for dockers who prefer to stay dry while they support the cause. Tickets include access to food trucks and live music, and will benefit LMRA. Doors will open at 10 a.m., and The Plunge will take place at noon Food trucks and live music from Jonathan Bloom will be available until 4 p.m. when the event ends.

After the initial plunge, another shotgun will go off to indicate the star t of the Dash for the Cash. In this contest, par ticipants will run back into the lake and swim around a designated buoy. There will be an item placed near the buoy, and the first person to grab it and return it to the shore will receive $100.

Big Mike’s, Chick-fil-A and LJ Concessions will have food trucks set up.

In addition to food trucks, Kowaliga’s bars will be open and ready to serve beverages.

To indicate the start of The Plunge, a shotgun will go off, and plungers will run into Lake Martin.

Those who choose to plunge in this event will arrive at Kowaliga restaurant in whatever attire they choose to wear. There will be a costume contest with a prize of $100, so attendees are encouraged to wear costumes for a chance to win.

Creating connections for artists

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor The inaugural River Region Art Summit is coming to The Kelly Fitzpatrick Center for the Arts.

It is a great chance for artists and organizations to come together to connect. The summit started small and grew exponentially.

“We talked to a couple of organizations and they wanted to meet with our artists,” The Kelly executive director Jennifer Eifert said.

“We would love to get our artists in touch with other organizations.

Then we got in touch with a few

more organizations and were like this is more than a meeting. We made it a summit.”

Eifert said The Kelly’s artist associate’s program is full at 50 with a waiting list. But the event is from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 27.

“We wanted to show all the artists in the area all the opportunities, not just through us, but other organizations too,” Eifert said. “We are bringing together the organizations and artists so they can meet each other, find out about all the opportunities.”

Eifert said The Kelly and other organizations are open to exhibits

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce vice president Liz Holland advises plungers to wear swimsuits during The Plunge before changing into any costumes.

“My pro tip for any plunger would be to plunge in a swimsuit, then have a bathrobe ready as soon as you get out,” Holland said.

Changing tents will be available for plungers to dry off and change as soon as they finish their plunge.

Towels will not be provided, so plungers must bring their own towels for this event.

After the initial plunge,

from artists not in their associate programs.

“The summit is a great way for everyone to connect,” she said.

The art summit is open to all artists young and old.

“It is for artists of all levels,” Eifert said. “We want to see artists, art organizations and people who want to become artists. There will be information on classes and things like that.”

The summit already has Alabama State Council of the Arts, Alabama Arts Alliance, Montgomery Art Center, King’s Canvas, The Millbrook Arts Center and the Wetumpka Crater and Visitor Center on board with many others planning to be there. Eifert said the arts coun-

another shotgun will go off to indicate the start of the Dash for the Cash. In this contest, participants will run back into the lake and swim around a designated buoy. There will be an item placed near the buoy, and the first person to grab it and return it to the shore will receive $100.

In the past years, Polar Plunge has been successful when raising money for LMRA. This year, Holland and the rest of the chamber hopes for another successful Polar Plunge.

“Every year, we strive to beat our goal. It’s all about supporting Lake Martin through LMRA,” Holland said. “Though it is a good time, and everyone is laughing and jumping in the water, it’s all about raising money for a good cause. It helps keep our lake safe and clean.”

cil will have a presentation in the morning and the arts alliance in the afternoon.

“Everyone else will have tables set up with information about their programs and their exhibits,” Eifert said. “It is really just an opportunity for artists and art programs to come together to see what everyone has to offer.”

The two presentations are the only things scheduled for the summit at The Kelly. The arts council presentation will center around its fellowship program and the benefits it can offer artists. Eifert said it is open to the public.

“People can come for half the day, the whole day,” Eifert said. “It is up to the attendee.”

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Wednesday, January 10, 2024 • Page C3

The Main Street Mule: A minty treat

By HENRY ZIMMER Sports Editor If you are ever thirsty and in the mood for some mint, head on down to The Local.

With a classic, traditional cocktail in mind The Main Street Mule might just be the

drink for you. This drink, set inside of a hefty size copper mug, is a delight in every sip.

The ingredients for a mule are simple: vodka, ginger beer and lime juice. With the size of the mug the Local serves the drink in, you get plenty of bang for your buck with a

price tag of only $10.

This libation can be served with your choice of vodkas, and I chose Opelika’s own John Emerald vodka. You can even spruce up your drink a bit by changing up the flavor to either blueberry or cran-apple.

The Local is also a relaxing place to enjoy live music or watch a sporting event with friends. Look around the bar and you will likely see many other patrons sipping on their own mules. It is hard to go wrong with this drink.

On a blisteringly hot or

chillingly cold day, the iciness of a mule in general is enough to soothe. But the Main Street Mule takes it up a notch with a solid price tag and sizable portion. Before you know it, you might be three or four deep and feeling like singing with the band yourself.

BRIEFS TPI STAFF Staff Report ELKS LODGE TO HOST CHILI COOKOFF The Alexander City Elks Lodge will host a chili cookoff on Feb. 10. The public is invited to attend and participate in the competition. Tickets are $20.

Those who would like to compete must pay a $25 entry fee. First-, secondand third-place awards will be trophies will be awarded as well as a people’s choice trophy. Registration to compete is due by Feb. 2.

The Elks Lodge hopes to recruit new members through this event. Proceeds will help the local Elks Lodge to raise money to disperse to local charities when needed.

POKER RUN COMING TO MAIN STREET Main Street Alexander City will be hosting a poker run on Wednesday throughout downtown. The poker run begins at 5 p.m.

Scorecards are $5, or five for $20, and can be purchased at the Jeep CruiseIn in the Court Square parking lot.

The rules are only one scorecard can be played at a time and must be presented before the playing card is drawn. Participants must draw an additional card if an identical card is drawn. The checkpoint personnel will write the card on the scorecard.

An additional card can be purchased for $5, and your best five cards can be played to win. Scorecards must be turned in by 6:30 p.m. at Lake Martin Brewery, where the winner will be announced at 6:45 p.m.

Payout is 50% of scorecard sales.

ABIGAIL MURPHY | THE HERALD

The Lake Martin Songwriters Festival hosts its last songwriters round at Copper’s Grill at Stillwaters from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. on July 29, 2023.

Songwriters Festival set to bring more music to the area

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter The Lake Martin Songwriters Festival will be back again in July, but first the festival board must sort through what artists will be featured in the lineup.

Since December, songwriters’ applications have been pouring in; the board has received roughly 65 applications as of Jan. 2.

Vice president Vivian Autry, who also owns The Mitchell House, said generally there are around 150 applications and she is expecting more over the next couple of weeks.

Submissions close Jan. 12 then the board will move on to the selection process. The board members listen to each of the artists then vote on their top favorites and decide

who is a good fit to create a well-rounded festival.

“The reason I love the festival so much is I love to hear the stories behind the songs — how they decided to write those songs and why,” Autry said.

By mid-February, the artist will know if he or she has made it into the lineup. Last year, the songwriter’s festival had 22 artists, which is the goal again this year.

The aim is to have a mix of returning and new artists.

Two special events from last year’s festival were the 20-and-under competition and the local’s stage. There are plans in the works to bring those events back.

Autry said the special thing about the Lake Martin Songwriters Festival is it is sponsor-funded, meaning attendees don’t have to pay

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for a ticket to any of the shows. Fellow board member Robert Gunn with Russell Lands added the free attendance is even more impressive considering the festival is in its fourth year.

Gunn has been involved in Lake Martin’s music scene since the early 2000s. When he first got started there were very few venues for live music.

“The talent pool in the area has really grown as have the outlets for the talent to perform,” Gunn said.

“Over the past several years, it's been a great impact for live music almost anywhere on the lake and off the lake.”

On top of that, the festival is getting attention beyond the Lake Martin region.

Autry said when she went to a music event in Nashville, artists told her their plans to

apply.

Autry said another appeal of the songwriters’ festival is it brings a certain level of hospitality for the artists that other music festivals might not. The artists get to spend time on the lake, are toured around the area and taken to different restaurants around Lake Martin.

“As the festival continues to grow, we bring in more artists, more venues are opened to allow these artists to come play and expose our community to some really talented people,” Gunn said. “I think it’s a win for everybody — for those of us who live here, for those who visit here and for those who come to play and sing.”

The Lake Martin Songwriters Festival will return in full swing July 24-28.

Page C4 • Wednesday, January 10, 2024

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

The Wetumpka Herald

ROCKIN’

NEW YEAR’S EVE PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA HIMES, MELODY RATHEL & LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN | THE HERALD

New Year’s Eve was a big hit around Elmore and Tallapoosa counties with several parties and celebrations throughout the area. Lake Martin Pizza hosted a trio of bands while Lil Bit of Texas partied with a champagne toast at midnight. Fermenter’s on the Green in Alexander City joined in on the fun, and Alabama Breeze hosted a Little Black Dress party. Warehouse 231 in Wetumpka also hosted live music, and Martin’s on Lake Martin in Dadeville celebrated a bit early with a New Year’s bash and steak dinner on Dec. 29.