Millbrook rezoning
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Chamber holds luncheon welcoming members
By Cliff Williams Staff Writer
The Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce held its annual luncheon to install new officers and board members for the first time in a while Thursday.
The COVID-19 pandemic put a hamper on gatherings but the chamber celebrated the successes of business in Wetumpka.
CLIFF WILLIAMS
“We haven’t been able to do this for the last couple years,” chairperson Clay McConnell said. “Your attendance is an indication people want to get back together and have these opportunities to see each See CHAMBER, Page A3
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Holtville’s Futral Alabama principal of the year
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News
The Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals
(AASSP) named Holtville High School principal Kyle Futral the 2022 Alabama High School Principal of the Year. The High School Principal of the Year award was presented to Futral on Friday, Jan. 28 during a schoolwide assembly at Holtville High School. Elmore County Superintendent Richard Dennis was in attendance for the presentation.
“Kyle Futral is an exceptional principal and is very proactive and innovative in his thinking and approaches to managing his school,” Dennis said, As principal of Holtville High School, Futral has transformed
the school culture from that of a school struggling with low morale, achievement and attendance to a school that strives for excellence. By collaborating with staff, many of the school’s issues were identified and addressed. Futral’s leadership style of listening, encouraging, supporting, organizing and challenging the staff and students, caused the school culture to
shift in a positive direction. The school experienced a 62 percent decrease in discipline referrals, 50 percent decrease in chronic absenteeism, 7 percent increase in the graduation rate, 33 percent increase in CCR rate and a 20 percent increase in ACT proficiency in the last five years.
See PRINCIPAL, Page A3
Obituaries
THOMAS RICHARD OSWALT
Thomas Richard Oswalt, a lifelong resident of Wetumpka, Alabama passed away Thursday, August 8, 2024 at the age of 66.
Mr. Oswalt is survived by his children Emily Oswalt and wife Casey Walsh, Zachary Oswalt and wife Amanda Oswalt; his long
DAVID WESLEY JONES
David Wesley Jones, 68, of Montgomery, Alabama, passed away Monday, August 12, 2024.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Henry and Grace Jones and Lloyd and Naida Crossman; his parents, Cary Wesley and
time partner Lakita Carter; siblings Larry Bryson, James “Jim” Bryson, Bobby Oswalt, and Joe Oswalt; 3 grandchildren Brianna, Parrish, and Joel; and wife Tamra Oswalt. Mr. Oswalt was well known as the “Dancing Man” at the Wetumpka Casino. He loved to sing and dance as often as he
Joyce Crossman Jones; his son, O’Neal Till, and many aunts and uncles. He is survived by his sister, Brenda Jones Turner (Jerry); his nephew Chad Turner (April); his niece, Kelly McLain (Clint); his great-nephews, Campbell Turn-
could. He had a great sense of humor and loved to make people laugh. His other favorite hobbies were fishing on the Coosa River and feeding and watching the birds. He will be dearly missed by his loved ones. There will be no services at the request of Mr. Oswalt himself.
er, Coleston Turner, and Jaxson McLain; and his great-nieces, Cari Beth and Anna Kate McLain. A memorial service for David will be held Saturday, August 24, 2024 at 12:00 PM at Leak Memory Chapel, 945 Lincoln Road, Montgomery, Alabama 36109.
Another arrest stemming from May smuggling attempt
TPI STAFF Staff Report
A Birmingham resident is in the Elmore County Jail after an arrest earlier this week.
Ja’Meria Snowden, 25, now faces two felony charges of criminal conspiracy to commit a controlled substance crime and conspiracy to traffic methamphetamines.
According to court records Snowden conspired with an inmate from the Elmore Correctional Facility and another defendant in the late evening hours of May 22 to introduce narcotics into the state prison.
“Ms. Snowden coordinated the transaction via cell phone and delivered approximately 111 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 27 grams of fentanyl to (Lawrence) Dudley,” a court documents state.
Dudley then got the drugs to an inmate inside Elmore Correctional Facility. He fled by vehicle after he was confronted.
“The suspect led law enforcement on a pursuit that ended with the defendant colliding into a privacy fence on Browns
Road in Millbrook,” an incident report states. Dudley, 45, of Birmingham was arrested May 23 and charged with two counts of reckless endangerment by the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office. According to court documents, deputies were asked to provide back up to officers with the Alabama Department of Corrections involved in a high speed chase in Elmore County.
“(ADOC) stated the offender had been observed dropping off suspected contraband at (Staton Correctional Facility),” court documents state.
When confronted Dudley got into a vehicle and fled the scene. An Elmore County deputy caught up to the pursuit on Highway 14 in Millbrook.
“The offender was traveling at speeds in excess of 100 MPH through town and also through residential neighborhoods,” the documents state.
Dudley forced law enforcement off the road and failed to stop for patrol vehicles with emergency lights on.
Dudley also backed into patrol vehicles
while evading. Dudley’s vehicle finally stopped after damaging a fence. Officers had to break the window and use tasers Dudley was taken to the Elmore County Jail and charged with two counts of reckless endangerment. ADOC charged Dudley with trafficking fentanyl, trafficking methamphetamine, felony attempting to elude, two counts of first-degree promoting prison contraband and trespassing on prison property Dudley has a $3,066,000 bond available to him.
Snowden has a $3,000,000 bond available to her
According to court records in April, Dudley was arrested by ADOC in Bibb County. He was charged with possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, three counts of possession of a controlled substance, second-degree possession of marijuana, two counts of promoting prison contraband and third-degree criminal trespass. He posted a $75,000 bond. Snowden was arrested in Jefferson County on March 18 and charged with second-degree assault. She posted a $15,000 bond and was released from the Jefferson County Jail.
Ariton man charged with multiple burglaries in Millbrook
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
The Millbrook Police Department made an arrest and connected a defendant to multiple business burglaries.
On Friday, Millbrook police arrested William Jefferies, 27, of Ariton who they identified just hours earlier as a person connected to three different burglaries reported earlier in the week.
“Detectives started an investigation
Police Reports
into these burglaries and quickly developing a suspect, who they had dealt with on an unrelated recent case,” Millbrook police chief P.K. Johnson said.
“Within an hour of having received information on the suspect, officers saw a vehicle, which they believed to be operated by Jefferies.”
Millbrook police conducted a traffic
WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT AUG. 11
• Assault was reported on Otter Track Road. • Theft was reported on U.S. Highway 231.
stop and investigators found items in the car related to the burglaries. Jefferies was charged with three counts of third-degree burglary, one count of third-degree theft, two counts of fourth-degree theft, two counts of fraudulent use of a credit or debit card and third-degree criminal mischief. He was taken to the Elmore County Jail and has a $100,000 bond available to him.
SNOWDEN
JEFFERIES
Kenneth Boone, Chairman
Tippy Hunter,
General Manager Lizi Arbogast Gwin, Managing Editor
Page A4 • August 21, 2024
Time to show our support
The 2024-2025 sports season is officially upon us. There are no more scrimmages, 7-on-7s or early morning workouts.
From here on out, our teams are playing games.
This fall, football, volleyball, swim, cross country and now flag football will all take the field and play sanctioned games. The teams have been practicing and getting ready all summer long, and now it’s our turn to show up and support these players.
They’ve been spending countless hours in the summer getting up at the crack of dawn to make early morning weightlifting sessions, or to drive across the state for a camp or a 7-on-7 event with the team. And for the last three weeks, they’ve been practicing in that Alabama heat, sometimes twice a day.
Fan support was on full display last week at various scrimmages such as Ben Russell, Wetumpka and Tallassee. Benjamin Russell coach Smitty Grider even commented on the attendance, saying it might have been the biggest crowd he’s ever had at a scrimmage.
Wetumpka fans also lined the stands for the scrimmage.
This Friday, as teams take the field for the first official games of the season, we need to show our support. The kids deserve the cheers, and they deserve for the stands to be packed.
Our reporters were out and about this summer in the heat a few times covering these events that the players were in. We saw what they were doing and stood in the heat they were doing it in. They did that nearly every day and never complained about it. They just tried to get better for when the season started.
So show up and show out in the stands. Let’s give these athletes the support they deserve.
What’s
your
Opinion?
We’d like to share your thoughts and opinions with the community for free. You may submit one letter to the editor per month (300 words or less) and/or a guest column (500 words or less). Include name, address and phone number. We reserve the right to refuse any submissions. Mail: Your View, The Wetumpka Herald 127 Company Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092 E-mail: editorelmore@thewetumpkaherald.com
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The Wetumpka Herald is contract printed each Tuesday evening in Alexander City by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. 256-234-4281
AFind
s journalists, we are trained to be unbiased. While doing our work, we aren’t supposed to have opinions or feelings. We are supposed to be the word of reason.
Of course there are opinion pages reserved for just those things — and of course we are human; we are going to have emotions.
But as journalists, we are trained to not get involved, stay out of the way, be in the background.
But community journalism isn’t really the same. We are covering where we live, work and play. We are covering issues that matter to us every day.
In national news media, it’s a bit easier to stay away from your sources and those you’re covering, but in smalltown journalism, you might run into those exact folks while you’re in your PJs at the Dollar General. These are your friends, your loved ones, your community. It’s hard to remain completely closed off.
That was especially apparent Sunday night, which marked
one year since the death of Benjamin Russell senior Kade Senn, who died in a car wreck in 2023. Community members gathered for a balloon release, and Kade’s parents and family were there in droves.
Just a few months before Kade died, a mass shooting occurred in Dadeville. It took the lives of four young people and injured countless others, physically and emotionally.
balloon release on Sunday, and as hard as I tried to remain on the outskirts, to not let my feel ings show, I couldn’t help but allow the tears to come.
Only a few months after, another student, Elmore County’s Masen Goggins, was taken from us in a car crash as well.
All of this sandwiched, as many of you know, by the death of my youngest brother, Dylan Gentry.
There were other deaths of young people, by suicide and car wrecks, during 2023, and to say the least, it was a tough year. All those young people came back to me during Kade’s
Kade was awarded his hon orary diploma by Central Ala bama Community College, and it was such a special moment to celebrate with a hundred of Kade’s closest family and friends. It was an honor I wish I could give to all the students and young people who were taken too soon in 2023, and any other year for that matter. a senior this year at Elmore County, and his name remains on the roster of the Panthers’ football squad — as it should. good moments when grief is overtaking you, but there is so much to celebrate, even in death. As a journalist, I’m proud to be a part of those moments with my community.
managing editor of Tallapoo sa Publishers Inc. She can be reached at 434-962-9420
Lord Voldemort drives a Toyota
Iknow, I know, it’s “He-WhoMust-Not-Be-Named.”
Before true Harry Potter fan Lizi Arbogast Gwin edits out the title of this week’s essay, I wanted to say that it is indeed true: Lord Voldemort, you-knowwho, drives a Toyota.
Maybe not the actor who plays him, Ralph Fiennes; in fact, according to a profile of the actor in GQ Magazine, he has a collection of vehicles that he doesn’t drive. I am talking about the guy sitting at the intersection of the Northern Bypass and Wares Ferry Road in Montgomery
There he was at the traffic light. A face pale as chalk, snake-like slits for a nose, overall looking more like a skull than anything else. His tiny, beady eyes looked menacingly over at me and I had to look away from the evil.
Plus, he was in a late-model Toyota Mirai, which has been named by automotive enthusiasts as the ugliest car Toyota has ever produced.
That light couldn’t change fast enough for me. Every time I looked over at Lord Voldemort –you know, Tom Riddle – he was already looking at me. I was so scared! Over the summer, as I began to transition to a new life working for Faulkner University, my
travels have taken me all over the River Region and beyond as we spread the word about our music scholarship program.
My new job is quite different from the world of serving as a choral director the past few years. It is more like a salesman-type job working for the admissions office and music department at the University
For example, I have contacted over 200 students who might have clicked on the band page of the Faulkner website and shown the slightest bit of interest in attending. I have dug deep into applications, ACT scores, children of alumni, you name it.
What we are offering is over 70% off tuition if you participate in the band or choir at Faulkner
That’s a $16,000 scholarship – right off the top. And you can stack it with other scholarships and grants. A student could attend our college completely free, just for being in music.
This amazing opportunity came along and when the University
approached me about it, after 28 years of teaching public school – most of that at Tallassee – it was an interesting offer. I know it won’t last forever but the opportunity to build something like this was exciting, so here we go! Along with contacting over 200 potential students, I’ve also visited nearly every band camp that was going on in the River Region and personally contacted 98 schools around the southeast. The school approved my design of a full-page advertisement and we purchased space in the state journal for music teachers. I’ve visited WSFA-TV 12 for interviews, spent countless hours writing press releases, and attended a dozen or so meetings with higher-ups at the college over the summer as we mapped out a strategy for building the band program.
In summary, while the pasty-looking Lord Voldemort is out driving his Toyota Mirai, I’m cruising through your town in a Ford Econoline spreading the good news about music scholarships. It may look like a church bus to you, but imagine a sign on the back that says, “Follow me to Faulkner.”
Michael Bird is an assistant professor of music at Faulkner University
Humane Society of Elmore County News
Gearing up for annual Bark in the Park
By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director
Starting at noon Sunday
Sept. 15 will be the 18th Annual Bark in the Park at Fort Toulouse in Wetumpka.
Let’s all have some fun with our dogs by bringing your dog out to Fort Toulouse to enjoy a nice afternoon in the park.
There will be plenty to do and see at Bark in the Park — vendors, food, demonstrations, Microchip Clinic, Blessing of the Pets, Pet Parade, Pet & Owner Contests, Bark in the Park T-Shirts, some great raffle baskets and more.
We have numerous vendors with pet products, groups and information, crafts, sweets, local businesses and more. Vendors will be set up under the trees and around the pavilion area and plenty of time for more vendors to join us – check our vendor app here: https://www.elmorehumane. org/bark-in-the-park-2024-
vendor-application.html or email us at the shelter at hselco@bellsouth.net.
Crepe Magic and Venice Gelato are onboard to tempt your taste buds and the Buffalo Rock Pepsi trailer will be stocked with a variety of sodas and water for sale.
Our Blessing of the Pets will happen at approximately 2:15 pm followed by our always popular Parade of Pets. After all, who doesn’t like showing off their beloved pet? During the Pet Parade, secret judges will be scouting out dogs for fun prizes — biggest, smallest, best costume, owner/pet look-a-like and more.
Instead of the silent auction, we will change it up this year with some super cool gift baskets to raffle. More information to come as the event approaches.
Microchips are critical to reuniting lost pets and to help keep more pets safe.
Pets can be microchipped at Fort Toulouse from 1:30-3:30 p.m. for only $25, which includes registration. The Tuskegee College of Veterinary Medicine will be microchipping pets. Make sure to stop near the pavilion at Fort Toulouse to purchase your 2024 Bark in the Park t-shirt for $15. The t-shirt will be bright and cheery lime green this year. We always have some delectable baked goodies as well. Admission to Bark in the Park is $5 per person for people aged 13 years old and older. All dogs coming to Bark in the Park must behave well in public, meaning good around children, adults and other dogs in a very busy situation and they must have a current rabies tag/proof of rabies vaccination to come to the Park.
In the event of rain, the event will be held Sunday, Sept. 22 at Fort Toulouse.
Pet of the Week — Luna
Luna is a female Dachshund mix who is 10 years old and weighs 16 pounds. When she came to us she was heartworm positive, needed spayed and was in bad need of a dental. She has been out in foster and in our office as she went through her many vet visits. She is now ready to find her forever home and she is a very sweet lady indeed. She is generally good with other dogs but can be very bossy and jealous of other dogs (especially over food/treats but not with us humans), so she would be best as an only dog getting all the attention or maybe with one bigger than her. We were told she is great with children. She is also good with cats, and she is housetrained. 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 Luna 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 334-567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.
3 inmates with connections to Elmore County denied parole
TPI STAFF Staff Report
Cameron Devon Bowman, Jarmell Antwon Elston and Alberto Garrido-Martinez will spend more time in state prisons after the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Parole denied their parole. Bowman, 21, of Wetumpka was sentenced in April to five years in prison for second-degree assault and third-degree burglary charges in
Elmore County Bowman has served one year and four months of the sentence. According to parole hearing minutes, the victim, a victim advocacy group and the
Alabama Attorney General’s Office spoke against his release.
Bowman is currently incarcerated at Bullock Correctional Facility. No new parole hearing has been set.
Elston, 35, Anniston is serving 25 years after a conviction in Elmore County for first-degree assault while he was
CommunityCalendar
second annual Smash Cancer Pickleball Tournament at 450 Gilmer Ave. Check in begins at 8 a.m. with the tournament starting at 8:15 a.m. All proceeds are to raise money for the American Cancer Society. The cost is $25 per person and $20 for an event t-shirt.
AUG. 31
19 to Oct. 5. Tickets are available at wetumpkadepotplayers.com.
SEPT. 28
incarcerated. Elston had been serving a 21-year sentence for three counts first-degree burglary, three counts of discharging a gun into an occupied building or vehicle, four counts of first-degree robbery and first-degree rape.
Elston has 13 years left to serve in prison. He is currently incarcerated at Staton Correc-
Oct. 30 at The Art Mill on Grandview Road in Millbrook.
OCT. 9
ART GUILD: The Elmore County Art Guild will meet Oct. 9 at The Art Mill on Grandview Road in Millbrook.
OCT. 10
BROOMSTICKS & BREWS: Main Street Wetumpka is hosting a spooktacular sip, shop and stroll event, Broomsticks & Brews, from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10. Downtown businesses will have themed merchandise, sips and more. Be sure to dress up.
tional Facility. No other parole hearings have been set.
Garrido-Martinez, 45, of Elmore has served two years and 10 months of an eight-year sentence for first-degree sex abuse conviction in Elmore County. He was sentenced in April 2023. There is no other parole hearing scheduled.
MUSIC ON THE PORCH DAY: The Talisi Historical Preservation Society is hosting Play Music on the Porch Day at the Patterson Log Cabin at 355 Sims Avenue in Tallassee from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31. Everyone is invited to bring an instrument and friends to join in the fun. Admission is free and there is a hot dog lunch.
SEPT. 5
LEADERSHIP SUMMIT: The Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting its Ignite Leadership Summit Sept. 5 at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Speakers include Jenna Keane, Jenny Stubbs, Don Erwin and Annette Funderburk.
SEPT. 8
HISTORY TALK: The Elmore County History Museum is hosting University of West Alabama’s Dr. Christopher D. Haveman at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept.
8. Haveman will present a program on “the Removal of the Creek Indians from Alabama and Georgia, 1827-1849.” The program is free.
SEPT. 11
ART GUILD: The Elmore County Art Guild is meeting at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11 at coaches Corner in downtown Wetumpka.
SEPT. 19 - OCT. 5
SILENT SKY: The Wetumpka Depot Players are producing Silent Sky Sept.
BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL: The 24th annual Titus Bluegrass Festival is 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 in Titus. Scheduled to perform are Blue Heart, Iron Horse Bluegrass and Ancient Tones. There will be concessions and arts and crafts. Bring a lawn chair to enjoy the shade. Tickets are $10 and children under 12 are admitted free of charge.
OKTOBERFEST: Main Street Wetumpka is hosting its annual Oktoberfest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 in downtown Wetumpka.
COPS and KIDS: The Millbrook Police Department and the City of Millbrook are hosting its annual Cops and Kids event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28 at Village Green Park.
OCT. 5
MACDOWN: The Family Sunshine Center is hosting the second annual Cookin’ on the Coosa MacDown: Mac & Cheese Cook-off from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday Oct. 5 at the Wetumpka Farmers Market.
OCT. 5 — OCT. 6
HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC: Heron Springs Farm in Eclectic will be hosting a two-day Robbie Potter Horsemanship Clinic, which will focus on furthering your horsemanship and your ability to build a solid relationship with your horse. For more information, contact Lee Ann Lutz at 336-926-5584 or via email at lalutz.ll@icloud.com.
OCT. 7 - 30
ART SHOW: The Elmore County Art Guild Fall Show will be from Oct. 7 to
OCT. 19
WILDLIFE ARTS FESTIVAL: The Kelly Fitzpatrick Center for the Arts is hosting the Wetumpka Wildlife Arts Festival in downtown Wetumpka Oct. 19.
OCT. 26
ART SHOW: The Downtown Artists are hosting the Don Sawyer Fall Art Show starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26 in downtown Wetumpka.
BOO FESTIVAL: The City of Millbrook is hosting the 15th Annual Boo Festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 26. There will be vendors and food trucks.
NOV. 7
GOLF TOURNAMENT: The Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Great Balls of Fire Golf Tournament at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Capitol Hill. Lunch will begin at 10:45 a.m. with a noon shotgun start. Contact the chamber at 334-567-4811 for more information.
NOV. 9
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE: Main Street Wetumpka is hosting the Downtown Wetumpka Holiday Open House Saturday, Nov. 9. There will be deals and seasonal specials at downtown businesses to kick off the holiday season.
DEC. 7
HOLIDAY MARKET: The City of Wetumpka Farmers Market is holding its annual holiday market from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the farmers market on Coosa Street.
BOWMAN ELSTON MARTINEZ
Coosada seeking franchise fee from Millbrook for sewage
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
The Town of Coosada wants to collect fran-
chise fees from utility companies including the City of Millbrook. Millbrook has sewage lines that run into
Coosada town limits to treat wastewater from Coosada Elementary and Airport Road Intermediate schools. Thanks to an early 2000s grant, a sewage line was installed on Upper and Lower Gibson Town roads to service up to 90 customers with the sewage being treated by Millbrook. It currently has approximately 50 customers.
Coosada Mayor Jim Houston informed the town council Tuesday night Millbrook had sent a letter to the town objecting to paying franchise fees. Houston said he was fine with not charging the fee for sewage from the schools but the franchise fee should be paid for other customers beyond the schools.
“It is helping our
kids that go to school there,” Houston said. “If they charge the Elmore County Board of Education the franchise fee, then it is taking money away from the kids. We reserve the right to the 3% on anything outside the two schools.”
The argument is other utilities are not currently paying Coosada a franchise fee.
“We will be going after other relevant utilities,” Houston said. “We don’t have franchise agreements with all the utilities but we are working towards that.”
The debate with neighboring Millbrook continues with annexation.
Long Cemetery between Coosada and Millbrook is now in Coosada. The council decided against tabling the issue to wait on an Alabama Attorney General’s Opinion on the process of using four annexations for one lot the City of Millbrook is using to annex a property on Chapman Road.
Houston said the town had received word the AG’s office wasn’t going to issue an opinion on Millbrook’s Rodger’s View Court annexation through local legislation.
The legal debate could take months or
even years, but it is not stopping the council and mayor from conducting other business of the town.
Town clerk Breyona McCall-Richardson informed the council of an Aug. 30 deadline for applying for an Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Community Development Block Grant for demolition. She asked councilmembers to forward structures they knew owners were willing to have taken down at no cost to the owner Police chief Leon Smith Jr. said the department helped certify between 15 and 20 teachers at Airport Road Intermediate School in CPR. The department is planning a session to train citizens in the life-
saving measure.
IN OTHER ACTION THE COOSADA TOWN COUNCIL:
• Approved minutes of the July 23 meeting.
• Approved a building permit for a lot on Pecan Grove Road at Lamb Drive.
• Approved a mobile home permit for a lot in the 5000 block of Coosada Road.
• Approved payment of annual dues to the Alabama League of Municipalities.
• Approved payment of annual dues to the National League of Cities.
• Approved a $175 budget for a plaque and finger foods for a town employee retirement program. The next meeting of the Coosada Town Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27.
Millbrook officially creates cultural arts department
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Arts and events are on the rise in Millbrook.
Two years ago the City of Millbrook hired Danae Morgan with hopes of growing the arts scene, and the efforts have worked. The Art Mill was created and has flourished. Events have grown as well including the Millbrook Farmers Market.
All the work was originally done under the city’s economic development department. At Tuesday’s Millbrook City Council meeting, the Cultural Arts and Specials Department was created with hopes it will grow even more.
“Everyone agrees, the cultural arts and special events have grown,” Millbrook city clerk Lori Davis told the council. “It is definitely a department now. It is time to make it official on paper, especially since there is the Art Mill and another employee there.”
The vote by the council will create a budget just for the new department.
“This just makes it clearer on paper,” Davis said.
Other improvements are coming in Millbrook after votes by the council. Some roads will be repaved over the next year thanks to a vote of the council. Portions of Prattville Junction Road, Linda Ann Drive, Springdale Road and Pineleaf Drive will be
resurfaced. It is thanks to $518,000 in funding through Rebuild Alabama. The council had to approve the plan and now the roads wait for the projects to go to bid.
The council tabled a vote on rezoning the Merritt property on Main Street at Graff Road to allow time for discussions between the developer and those with property and homes nearby The proposed rezoning would move the nearly four acres from low density residential to medium density residential.
IN OTHER ACTION THE MILLBROOK CITY COUNCIL:
• Annexed a portion of the Green Property on Chapman Road.
• Approved minutes of the July 23 meeting.
• Authorized $3,349.52 in funding for fuel tank maintenance.
• Authorized the purchase of supplies for the parks and recreation department totaling $5,102.07.
• Authorized $6,560 to improve and landscape around welcome signs on Highway 14 and Cobbs Ford Road.
• Authorized a retail beer and retail table wine license for Plantation House Restaurant and Catering.
• Issued a public assembly permit for a gender reveal party for Minnie Massey Park.
The next meeting of the Millbrook City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27.
CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI
Coosada Mayor Jim Houston, left, explains to the Coosada Town Council and residents its requests to the attorney general seeking clarification on annexation.
Pay increase considered for Wetumpka mayor, council
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
The
increase
At its Monday meeting an ordinance was introduced for a first
reading to raise the salary of the mayor to $50,000 per year and the salary of councilmembers to $12,000 per year.
The mayor is currently paid $25,000 per year and councilmembers $7,200. It was set by an ordinance in 2000.
Alabama law requires any change in the pay for mayor or council be set at least six months prior to municipal elections. The next municipal election is set for August 2025.
With the first reading complete, the council
could take the matter up at its next meeting.
The council is also going through the rezoning process for two pieces of property in the city limits.
At its Monday meeting, the council heard the first reading of ordinances changing the zoning of a parcel on Dozier street from R-2.6 (residential) to B-4 (business). It is property near the First Baptist Church of Wetumpka. The other parcel is 92.86 acres on Highway 14 across from the old Rus -
to be better prepared for the school day. Our program supports what they do in the classroom.”
Child Nutrition Pro -
gram director Cacyce Davis said. “It does not require parents or guardians to complete any paperwork or applications. They just show
Davis said the provided breakfast and lunch ensure a well-nourished student during the school day allowing teachers to better concentrate on their job.
sell plant. It is proposed to change the zoning from M-2 (manufacturing) to R-H (rural holding). Few structures are on the property currently
The council approved the advertising of the rezoning for both parcels to comply with state law The actual vote will occur after the appropriate advertising has occurred in approximately two meetings.
IN OTHE R ACTION THE WETUMPKA CITY COUNCIL:
• Approved minutes of
breakfast.
“All families of all incomes have issues getting kids to eat breakfast,” Davis said. “Many times kids don’t want to get up early enough to eat breakfast.”
the Aug. 5 meeting.
• Authorized a service agreement with Garaventa Lift for preventative maintenance for the lift at the stadium.
• Appointed Jason Mattox to the City of Wetumpka Water Works and Sewer board of directors.
• Approved technical service from Daktronics to repair the audio system at the football stadium.
The next meeting of the Wetumpka City Council is scheduled for noon, Tuesday, Sept. 3
a rural designation from the USDA. Communities in Montgomery didn’t receive it. In fact, Davis and the CNP program had to move the Wetumpka location away from the schools at first because they didn’t receive the designation.
The CEP status takes away the burden of parents filling out applications for free or reduced meals and administrators following up to make sure everything is done correctly. Instead, the Alabama State Department of Education looks at how children in a school district are on programs such as SNAP or Medicaid. If deemed high enough, every student in the school gets free meals, in Elmore County’s case, all 15 schools.
“Elmore County Schools support our kids and community,” Davis said. “If we get the opportunity to try to do great things for kids, that’s our goal, especially if it’s something that allows them
Under the CEP program, breakfast is served in the classroom. Students pick between a hot meal or a cereal the day before and teachers place the order. It is in the classroom when students arrive on campus in the morning. The procedure is proving to work as between 8,000 and 9,000 breakfasts are prepared every morning in Elmore County.
“Without breakfast in the classroom, participation is usually at its highest around 35%,” Davis said. “We have got schools at 70 to 90%. That is just a game changer in terms of nourishing kids.”
Davis believes there is a common connection between all students when it comes to
The lunch meal sees similar participation under CEP across the county. Davis and the CNP program work to give students four to five lunch options with at least two being hot meals. Other choices include fresh salads with Alabama grown hydroponic lettuce and grab-and-go meals similar to lunchables.
“It is very good participation at nearly 80%,” Davis said. “It can still grow.”
The participation l a st school year and what Davis has already seen in the first few days of school this year sandwich the summer feeding program where nearly 800,000 meals were distributed over the summer.
“We were a little disappointed because it felt like we served 1 million,” Davis said. “We were able to distribute them in a curbside program in everyone of our school communities.”
The summer feeding program came through
“We had to work through the state department of education, USDA,” Davis said. “Even had community supporters to help get Wetumpka Middle School identified as a rural pocket.” Davis said most of the students and bus routes fit the rural designation. She filed a petition in March to get the rural designation in Wetumpka. It didn’t come until mid-June.
The first two-weeks in Wetumpka used the Elmore County Public Works department as a distribution site. It then moved to Wetumpka Middle School.
In all cases across the county, volunteers turned out to help get the food in the cars.
“We had school staff, we had students, we had churches,” Davis said. “They all came to help and we are so thankful for it. It goes to show the great people that are in Elmore County.”
salaries for the mayor and council could
in the City of Wetumpka.
it will be deeded over to the county for maintenance. That also involves lot layout and drainage. If the developer meets those requirements, the commission is required by Alabama law to approve the plat. If it doesn’t, the county can be sued and held liable for attorney fees and more.
Nearby residents asked commissioners about traffic studies and making Redland Road four lanes to accommodate growth from the subdivision.
“The added traffic is a concern,” nearby resident William Piper said. “Adding an additional 1,500 vehicles on Redland Road will make
it a bigger problem and bigger backup.”
Beyer said improvements have been made to Redland Road from U.S. Highway 231 to Rifle Range Road in recent years. But improving Redland Road’s entrance to U.S. Highway 231 is beyond the control of the commission. Any work there is subject to the approval of the Alabama Department of Transportation.
Hill said he had spoken with the developers of the residential development. He was told all the homes will be between 2,100 and 3,000 square feet.
“(A home this size) won’t be low-income housing,” Hill said.
The idea of a development of the property near Willow Springs Road is
months Alabama Power has been trying to take their property to construct a new high voltage power line to power the gas plant just outside town limits. Hassey is concerned with how close the lines are to current residences.
“They will be in the mayor’s garage, within five feet of Goza’s front door,” Hassey said. “There are a couple of alternate routes that will not affect anybody on Jackson Bend Road. They could drop 100 yards to the south and affect nobody.”
Goza and Houston said Alabama Power has refused to meet with the residents as a group. Instead they are sending offers to purchase an easement to property.
“They want to steal my land,” Goza said. “They offered a few pennies to come across there. It is not enough. They still want me to pay the taxes on it.”
Representatives from Spire, Jason Mills and Eric Rigsby, met with town officials and residents last week to tell them of their plans for the facility. Mills has worked there for about 20 years and said the facility has been in its current location since 1972. Currently the LNG plant is down but not the storage competent of the facility
“We take in gas at times when gas is cheaper in the summer and we liquify it and store it in the tank,” Mills said. “It helps levelize pricing.”
The gas is chilled to cryogenic temperatures. The process makes gas
Continued from A1
one to two bedrooms.
Neighbors came to Millbrook City Council meeting voicing concerns over flooding, traffic, effects to property values and wildlife.
“It is not a flood zone per se but it is definitely flood prone,” Graf Road resident Kevin Lawrence said. “There is a lot of pressure on that creek and it happens at the confluence of Main Street and where the creek crosses.”
Millbrook councilmember Jimmy Harris said most of the concerns
nothing new. For decades it has been owned by ALFA. In the mid-2000s ALFA worked with a developer for a similar residential development. County officials said it didn’t happen because of the recession.
The commission could have considered zoning issues raised by citizens if it had limited home rule. It is something the commission had briefly from 2016 to 2018. A public referendum narrowly passed allowing the commission to deal with such matters. But in 2018 a petition with more than 4,000 signatures was brought to the commission to repeal the commission’s ability to home rule.
“It was repealed with 64% of the vote,” commission chairman Bart Mercer
600 times smaller. When needed, such as when gas prices rise or the supply is low, the gas is allowed to warm up and expand. It then feeds distribution lines to the Montgomery area. Recently the plant has accepted LNG from other plants to store as it had capacity and prices were down because its cooling system is out of operation.
Currently Spire is in the design phase of changing out the gas-powered air conditioning system used to chill the gas to an electric one. It is a system that needs a 4,500 horsepower motor to drive. Spire has already constructed a substation to supply it.
Some residents asked Mills and Rigsby about rumors of shipping the gas overseas or creating a power plant at the site.
“Gas from Coosada does not go down to Mobile,” Rigsby said. “Gas goes to Montgomery, not overseas. We are not running lines to Mobile. We can’t even supply to Mobile.”
The one consistent point the Coosada residents made with the Spire representatives was the gas company had the ability to influence Alabama Power, especially since the power company refused to meet with the residents as a group.
“Alabama Power is coming in here and acting like nobody matters,” Houston said.
The mayor thanked Mills and Rigsby for meeting with the officials and residents explaining about what is going on at the plant.
“We are here to speak with you,”Rigsby said. “We want to be members of the community. We
from citizens didn’t necessarily concern the rezoning.
“The major issue is the creek,” Harris said. “I didn’t realize how bad it floods through there.”
Merritt said the development will contain a retention pond on the property and should ease some flooding concerns.
“We are taking the runoff from four acres and slowly releasing it to the creek instead of it just running straight in especially during a heavy rain event,” Merritt said. “During heavy downpours, it will allow the creek to recover some instead of the runoff hitting all at once.”
said.
Mercer said he was part of the town of Elmore’s incorporation in 2005 and 2006. He said it was a long and difficult process but could be done. More recently Pike Road and Pine Level have incorporated.
Each of the municipalities can now pass zoning laws.
Hill sees the growth. He is a retired law enforcement officer and in the last 35 years has seen Elmore County grow from about 48,000 residents to nearly 100,000. With the growth Hill said some changes will have to happen but can’t always be initiated by the commission.
“The adjustments will have come from the citizens,” Hill said. “They will have to tell us and grant us the authority.”
are not just some big company that doesn’t care about anybody.”
They said the refurbished plant would be online in 2026 and plans for the plant and its future have been openly discussed with Spire executives. Rigsby said all conversations were the plant was just going through a change from gas to electric.
Many of the residents thanked Mills and Rigsby for speaking with them. But they also encouraged them to pressure Alabama Power to come to the table with residents as well.
Resident Jason Cole said he is thinking of challenging things through public awareness and possible lawsuits. He has researched numerous websites and even the EPA. His research shows an increased chance of cancer near the LNG plant and storage facility. He said those within one mile of the plant have a 97% higher chance of getting cancer from air toxins than anyone else in the nation. Those within 10 miles are 93% higher. Cole also said Alabama Power isn’t considering the environment in the placement of the new power lines and encouraged Spire to bring the power company to the table.
“Alabama Power has refused to mitigate the wetlands on my property,” Cole said. “I’m going the environmental route publicly. Does Spire want to get caught up in that?’”
As of Monday afternoon, representatives with Alabama Power were attempting to find the appropriate personnel to comment on the matter
Graf Road’s entrance to Main Street is controlled by the Alabama Department of Transportation as it is Highway 143. Graf Road will be moved to line up with Shady Drive if the rezoning is approved.
Merritt originally wanted a two-lane road until the edge of the property but has compromised keeping it one lane. Merritt has also comprised on the number of units on the property
The original plans for the development called for 12 units or 24 rentals.
Merritt is now proposing six units or 12 rentals but they aren’t aimed at everyone.
Merritt said the six units would look similar to 2,500 square foot homes with two rentals per ‘home.’
“We are going for the retired community, those seeking to downsize from larger homes with no maintenance,” Merritt said. “They are for independent senior citizens. It won’t be the cheapest rent by any means.”
Merritt has no plans to sell the proposed development after constructing it.
“It goes in our portfolio and we hold it,” Merritt said. “I’m the financier and builder of it. I’m there and don’t want it to look bad.”
GAS
Continued from A1
What does business mean to the church?
Greetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge Street. I do hope this edition of the Wetumpka Herald finds all of its readers in good spirits and doing well. We are beginning a week of cooler weather as I write. The highs are only supposed to be around 90 — better get my parka. There is a commonly known expression in the earthly kingdom I wish to explore in this week’s column. The expression has two parts. The first is everyone needs to know what their actual business is. Once that is determined, the most important question, regardless of individuals’ answers, is, “How’s business?”
I cannot remember when I first encountered this way of thinking. When I apply it to my present vocation, this is what it looks like. I am in
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.
REV. JONATHAN YARBORO Columnist
the church business. I am the spiritual, scriptural, pastoral guide for the decision makers and members of the church I serve. Our business is spreading the love of God exemplified by Jesus Christ. We do so in keeping with the structure of the Presbyterian Church (USA) denomination, but the church is not our business. Witnessing the gospel and good news in the example of Jesus Christ is.
At least once a year, the elders of the church and I spend some time asking the question, “How’s business?”
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-
We do not have to start those conversations by making sure we know what our business is. The Presbyterians in Wetumpka have been in agreement about that since 1836. What typically follows in this conversation is a listing of things that fit our agreed-upon business and occasionally things that do not. The simple truth is, no one can ever do too much in the name of witnessing gospel truth. There is always more that can be done.
As another election cycle ramps up, the business of politics has risen in importance in terms of the business of being a nation. A significant portion of the business of being a nation is participation in the processes of government, whatever that government may be.
In other words, the rising emphasis on the election process is warranted and neces -
Church Briefs
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
sary. As that takes place, political rhetoric ramps us as well. For the last couple of months, I have been writing about some of that rhetoric. I do so in the name of clarifying the business of our political structure. I ask myself and our nation as whole, what is the business of politics?
I don’t know about you, but I believe the answer varies depending upon who you ask.
That is to be expected, but I cannot help but wonder if we haven’t lost sight of that reality. It seems to me that many in our nation believe their definition of the business of politics is the only one that matters.
The business of politics is to provide occupants for the various seats of leadership.
The political process results in elections and appointments of
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!
local sheriffs, presidents and everything in between. Some interpret business as a series of contests to be won, and some of those believe further that victory must be secured at any cost.
When we ask the question
“How is the business of politics in the good ol’ USA?”, I am not sure anyone is truly pleased with the honest answer. The player with the most money wins. It doesn’t seem to matter where the money comes from or how it was made. The size of the war chest is apparently what makes the difference. Is that good business for our nation or any other? History certainly says it isn’t. History cannot be rewritten if corrections are not made.
Rev. Yarboro is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Wetumpka.
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.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
– John 3:17
– Proverbs 10:12
Dalton MiDDleton SportS eDitor dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com
Stanhope’s Anderson already filling his role
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
KamRan Anderson is ready to be the next man up.
As Stanhope Elmore begins its season at home Friday against Marbury at Foshee-Henderson Stadium, Anderson looks to become the next Stanhope defensive end to find his way to the college level. In the past five seasons,
Stanhope Elmore has sent five defensive linemen to play in college — T.J. Jackson, William Whitlow, Caleb Foster, JaQuize Buycks and Donnie Arnold. Anderson is not going to be left off that list.
“That’s just the standard we have at Stanhope Elmore,” Anderson said. “We have a standard and it’s what we have to meet as linemen. I’m just the next one up. I still am in talks
The
for a championship begins
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
BEAUREGARD (0-0) AT WETUMPKA (0-0) THE PLAYERS
WETUMPKA: WR Evan
Dillard had 13 catches for 150 yards, 3 TDs. … RB Jimmy King had 116 carries for 1,011 yards, 7 TDs with Sidney Lanier. … DE Ethan Bailey recorded 61 tackles, 13 tackles for a loss, 9 sacks and 3 forced fumbles.
BEAUREGARD: LB Z.J. Grady recorded 75 tackles, 2 sacks and 1 forced fumble; he also had 37 carries for 251 yards, 3 TDs. … WR KaJaden Holloway had 22 catches for 272 yards, 1 TD. … RB Tae Fore-
man had 54 carries for 344 yards, 4 TDs.
FOUR DOWNS
Wetumpka and Beauregard have never played before.
Beauregard finished the 2023 season with a 6-5 record; Wetumpka finished 5-6.
Beauregard coach Justin Jones is 20-13 in three years with a 2-1 record in season openers.
Wetumpka is 1-3 in its last four season openers and gave up 40 points in all three losses.
NEXT UP: Wetumpka at Chelsea; Beauregard at
The
a game last season.
home Friday against Trinity.
Holtville names new starting quarterback
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
There will be a new quarterback in Slapout.
Leading up to Holtville’s season opener against Trinity at home Friday, the Bulldogs have named their starting quarterback.
Junior Jacob Burgess, a transfer from Wetumpka, will be taking the starting snaps when Holtville kicks off at 7 p.m. After a twoweek long battle to begin fall camp, Burgess was named the starter.
“The biggest thing for Jacob is that he came in and caught up with the
offense so fast,” Holtville first-year coach Cory Lee said. “He has some leadership skills that I feel like will benefit us as a team with him at quarterback. I fully expect him to get stronger and better weekby-week.”
This will be Burgess’ first varsity start as the junior played back-up to Wetumpka quarterback Nate Rogers last season before transferring to Holtville.
The Holtville quarterback battle came as a shock to many as rising senior Keiland Baker was
with them and we still communicate. They help me with my moves and critique me.”
Churning out stellar defensive linemen is something that Stanhope Elmore puts a lot of pride into. Jackson was the first of the latest group to go to college, signing with Troy before moving to West Virginia. Whitlow signed with Memphis then
WETUMPKA HOSTS BEAUREGARD FOR SEASON OPENER
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Wetumpka doesn’t have to wait any longer.
The 2024 high school football season begins this week, and Wetumpka will host Class 5A Beauregard in its season opener at 7 p.m. Friday at the Wetumpka Sports Complex.
The Hornets are coming off a 2023 season where they went 6-5 and reached the first round of the Class 5A playoffs before losing to eventual state champion Gulf Shores. Beauregard is led by fourth-year coach Justin Jones, who has a 20-13 overall record and a 2-1 record in season openers. Wetumpka coach Bear Woods is entering his third year with the Indians. He has a 12-10 record and is
coming off a 5-6 season and playoff appearance.
“You can tell their staff has been together for a few years,” Woods said. “They play very sound and very physical football. With how they play, they’re going to be a very tough challenge for our home opener.”
Many of Beauregard’s players are returning starters. Included in that is sophomore quarterback
Cub Jones, who completed 60 of 102 passes for 638 yards, 7 touchdowns and 4 interceptions last year.
After a full offseason going into his second year of starting, Jones is a threat to throw the ball anywhere on the field.
“They have a young quarterback who is very good,” Woods said. “He has a good football IQ and throws a good deep ball. We saw them at 7-on-7
this summer and he looked good. The entire team looked good. They had good skill players who had a lot of speed.”
Joining Jones in the backfield is a plethora of running backs who are tough to tackle. At 5-foot9 and 207 pounds, Running back Tae Foreman rushed for 344 yards and 4 touchdowns on 54 carries, almost a 7 yards per carry average.
ZJ Grady, who is also one of the top linebackers in the entire state of Alabama, plays running back as well and rushed for 251 yards and 3 touchdowns, averaging 6.8 yards per carry.
“We have to tackle,” Woods said. “On film, you don’t see many guys running untouched for
Stanhope Elmore’s Kam Anderson, left, and Donnie Arnold (5) combine for a tackle against Eufaula.
Holtville football team runs onto the field during
Holtville opens the 2024 season at
DALTON MIDDLETON TPI
TOP: Wetumpka’s Justin Godwin (5) returns a kickoff back for a touchdown in Friday’s scrimmage. Godwin and the Indians host Beauregard at the Wetumpka Sports Complex on Friday.
ABOVE: Wetumpka quarterback Tyler Johnson throws a pass during the Indians’ scrimmage last Friday. Wetumpka hosts Beauregard in the season opener Friday.
DALTON MIDDLETON | TPI Holtville quarterback Jacob Burgess runs through drills during a practice. Burgess, a junior, has been named the Bulldogs’ starting quarterback in 2024.
The best names I found on football rosters this year
Iwas sitting in the office on Tuesday when I saw a post come across my X (Twitter) account from the Troy football account. The post stated “QB1” followed by three geese emojis.
The graphic on the post was a picture of Troy’s newly named starting quarterback – Goose Crowder. I laughed, and turned around and told Cliff Williams what his name was.
We both laughed, then I noticed the post was sort of going viral.
Not only was Troy’s account picking up steam, but other accounts were posting all about “Goose” and talking about the best names in college football.
Someone then posted about Troy’s home game against the University of Louisiana Monroe on Sept. 28. That game will feature a quarterback battle between Troy’s Goose Crowder and ULM’s General Booty.
No, I’m not kidding.
That is a name matchup that will go down in history.
During this time, I was also typing up the rosters for all six Elmore County football teams for our annual Gridiron Guide. So what did I do?
Well I started looking to see what kind of names I could find on our local rosters.
Here are the names I found that stood out to me, whether that be because it was cool, odd or just made me think of a tv show/movie. Some of these are going to be nicknames. I don’t care. I am going by what is listed on the official roster. Call my boss if you don’t like it. The first name that stuck out to me was from Slapout. Listed on the Holtville roster is sophomore defensive lineman wearing No. 72 –Camo Smith.
If I had to pick a name of the year, I think this one would win. If you were to stand in front of me and ask me what county school a kid named Camo would go to, I would definitely say Holtville. I don’t know why. It just makes sense.
I hope this kid gets a scoop and score or an interception returned for a touchdown. I want to write an article about anything he does this year. On Tallassee’s team, there is Tiny Green. Tiny is a junior linebacker who transferred in from Dadeville this offseason. At 5-foot8 and 190 pounds, he’s really not that tiny. I don’t know how the nickname came about, but that’s the name that stuck out on Tallassee’s team. Over in Eclectic, Jett Tucker is going to be starting on the Pan-
DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
thers’ offensive line. I don’t have much to say about this one. Jett is just a fun name.
Stanhope Elmore had the most names that stuck out to me. The first two were media related and completely stupid.
Arthur McQueen was the first name, and the only reason it stuck out to me is because he’s wearing red and his last name is McQueen. Last year, he rushed for 1,400 yards in seven games so we might as well call him Lightning McQueen.
If that’s already his nickname, just pretend you didn’t read this.
The other media-related name is Brandon Belcher. I hope he’s watched Bob’s Burgers before.
King Bell stuck out to me for obvious reasons. I think King is actually a shortened version of his real name, but I’d shorten it too. King is awesome.
The last name for Stanhope is just a fantastic name – Dedrick Slaughter. If I was a kid on an opposing team and saw Slaughter on the back of someone’s jersey, you can guarantee I’d be on the sidelines telling someone about it during my next water break.
The same goes for Wetumpka’s Zaiveon Youngblood.
I hope those two names go on for generations to come in these communities.
The last name on my list is Wetumpka running back Tudrius Hetherington.
I’ll be completely honest. This name really stuck out to me because I had trouble reading it then had trouble typing it then had trouble saying it.
But I was told by Wetumpka coach Bear Woods he’s a very talented running back, so it looks like I may have to learn how to type it over and over again.
These were the top names that stood out to me on this year ’s rosters. Camo is my favorite, but nothing stands up to last year’s winner which was Stanhope’s Bunny Jackson, the 6-foot, 300 pound defensive lineman. Not many names will beat that one.
Dalton Middleton is the sports editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.’s Elmore County newspapers. He can be reached at dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com.
Edgewood volleyball sweeps Meadowview
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Edgewood Academy defended its home court.
The five-time defending state champions hosted its home opener Monday night in a non-region matchup against Meadowview. Edgewood Academy swept the game, 3-0 (25-10, 25-10, 25-16) in a commanding effort.
The Wildcats improved to 2-0 on the season after beating Morgan Academy, 3-1, in the season opener on the road.
“I was pretty happy overall with how we played,” Edgewood coach Brad Starks said. “We had a few mental lapses where I thought we played a little off. We had a few girls in different positions but at the same time, we really want to focus on not making mental errors.”
The Wildcats made quick work of the first two sets. In the first set, Edgewood scored early, building a five-point lead in the first eight points and never looking back.
The same happened in Set 2.
The final set, Meadowview hung around for a little bit before Edgewood pulled away. Edgewood led, 11-9, midway through the set then went on a run to take a 20-12 lead. After a few bad serves and kill attempts hitting
TOP: Edgewood Academy’s Baylie Barrett hits the ball against Meadowview on Monday. The sophomore is one of Edgewood’s top hitters this season.
ABOVE: Edgewood Academy volleyball player Hayden Hudson dives for a dig against Meadowview on Monday afternoon.
the net, Edgewood refocused and closed out the game.
“Good teams don’t make those types of errors often,” Starks said. “Our energy was good for the most part. We were a little uncrisp at times, but we haven’t played in five days. I was happy with the effort.”
Edgewood lost multiple starters from last year’s 37-2 state championship team.
The talent is still there, especially up front, but there are lots of new faces on the roster having to pick up impact points.
In the team’s opener against Morgan Academy, some of those faces stepped up and delivered a win. Avery White, the team’s most experienced
player, had a stellar opener and recorded 18 kills to go with 28 assists and 9 aces.
Sophomore Baylie Barrett, who is expected to be the team’s next star, had 21 kills, 14 digs and 2 aces. Emerson Boddie rounded out the trio with a 12 kill, 18 assist and 3 ace performance.
“I would say that we’ve looked really good at times and we’ve looked really suspect at times over the first few games,” Starks said. “We are still learning where the ball needs to go. We are ironing out rotations and positions still, but I’ve been pretty pleased. We’ve had a couple moments where I haven’t been happy but we’re trying to focus on the good things.”
DALTON MIDDLETON | TPI
County approves $40 million operating budget, $89 million overall
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Elmore County has the lowest property tax rate in the state. As such the Elmore County Commission has to be careful how it allocates funds.
“Staff start in March working on the budget and bring the commission in beginning in May,” Elmore County Commission chair Bart Mercer said. “It’s a lot of money and I’m proud of the way we allocate the limited amount of money we have to work with.”
At last week’s meeting the commission passed the largest budget ever at $89 million for fiscal year 2025. About $49 million is one-time appropriations mainly for quality of life projects such as 17 Springs and the turf fields for county schools currently in the bid process.
The funds are carefully watched as the county grows. Mercer said between 2010 and 2020 Elmore County’s population increased by 72 people per month.
“That is growth we are having to manage the best we can with the powers we have to manage that growth,” Mercer said. “We have to work within the money we have.”
The single largest line item in the budget is the Elmore County Jail at. It includes a $155,000 increase for additional services for medical and mental health services. It means a 16% increase in medical staffing and a 600% percent increase in access to mental services in the jail.
“We understand a lot of the people in that jail don’t belong there,” commissioner Mack Daugherty said. “They belong in a mental health facility. Sadly our state has closed most of those over the years. The counties are left dealing with that.”
The county is also spending funds to come up with a plan to increase the number of beds available in the Elmore County Jail while figuring out how to increase the size of the judicial complex to accommodate
FILLING
two new circuit court judges.
Mercer said it's another sign pointing towards growth in Elmore County. Daugherty said the county must stay ahead when it comes to the jail, which is already overcrowded.
“We are always over capacity,” Daugherty said. “Crime is unpredictable and the jail population is unpredictable.”
Funds from the “internet sales tax” will continue to be shared with educators.
“A few years ago when we started to receive the funds from the internet tax, we decided to voluntarily allocate 25% to education in Elmore County,” Daugherty said.
Those funds are then split equitably on a per-student basis between Elmore County and Tallassee City schools to support school resource officers and capital projects.
The budget officially ratifies $2.5 million in spending for county roads through Rebuild Alabama and Federal Aid Exchange projects.
Other increases in the budget are aimed at retaining employees to avoid training new employees.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought premium pay and increases depended on exposure. Most of the increases were made permanent through last year’s budget. The 2025 budget returns pay raises to a merit system. The pay increases account for a 1.25% increase in the payroll.
Employees are also encouraged to stay county employees with a longevity pay incentive. Employees will receive $100 per year of employment with the county up to $1,000 in November 2024. Healthcare for retirees will also remain covered by the county, again to promote staying employed by the county longer.
Commissioners said the pay increase and incentives were much needed as they help save money in the long term in replacing employees.
The new budget goes into effect Oct. 1.
SPORTS CALENDAR
SATURDAY, AUG. 24
THURSDAY, AUG. 22
HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL
4 Reeltown vs. T.R. Miller at Cramton Bowl, 7 p.m.
HIGH SCHOOL FLAG FOOTBALL
4 Prattville at Tallassee, 5 p.m.
HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL
4 Stanhope Elmore, Ben Russell at Elmore County, 4:30 p.m.
4 Edgewood Academy at Chambers Academy, 5 p.m.
FRIDAY, AUG. 23
HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL
4 Tallassee at Montgomery Academy, 7 p.m.
4 Elmore County at Dadeville, 7 p.m.
4 Trinity at Holtville, 7 p.m.
4 Marbury at Stanhope Elmore, 7 p.m.
4 Beauregard at Wetumpka, 7 p.m.
SEASON
Continued from B1
or 8 yards. It’s mostly a missed tackle somewhere between 1 and 7 yards. We have to play sound defense. Our challenge is making tackles.”
Grady is a three-star linebacker who is currently one of the Top 50 players in the state of Alabama’s Class of 2025.
Last season, Grady recorded 75 tackles, 5 tackles for loss and 2 sacks. His linebacking counterpart, Caleb Piner, had 127 tack -
HOLTVILLE
Continued from B1
set to lead the Bulldogs for his third consecutive season as a starter. Instead, Baker decided not to play his senior season.
Burgess will have big shoes to fill in replacing Baker as the former All-State quarterback completed 114 of 201 passes for a
HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL
4 Elmore County, Wetumpka at PCA Tournament, TBD
4 Edgewood Academy at Fort Dale Tournament, TBD
MONDAY, AUG. 26
HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL
4 Lee-Scott Academy at Holtville, 6 p.m.
4 Wetumpka at Prattville, 6 p.m.
TUESDAY, AUG. 27
HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL
4 Holtville, Elmore County at St. James, 6 p.m.
4 Tallassee, Prattville at Stanhope Elmore, 6 p.m.
4 Bessemer Academy at Edgewood Academy, 5 p.m.
4 Wetumpka, Montgomery Catholic at Montgomery Academy, 6 p.m.
les, 9 tackles for loss and 2 more sacks.
“Grady can do anything on the field and will be a challenge for anyone who plays Beauregard this year,” Woods said. “We have to line up in formations that will neutralize those linebackers, but this is the first game of the season. You have to stick with who you are and what you worked on all spring and summer. The teams who are most fundamental and sound, the ones who don’t have drive killing penalties and make tackles win in Week 1. That’s what we’re focused on this week. We have to play well ourselves.”
county-high 1,708 passing yards and 13 touchdowns last year. He added 345 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. Burgess will have a strong supporting cast around him as Holtville returns two starting offensive linemen, its top two rushers from a year ago and a plethora of skill players in the receiving corps, including last year’s touchdown leader in 6-foot-5 Elijah Headley.
Foster signed with Butler Community College.
Buycks, who was committed to Liberty, is currently at Northwest Mississippi Community College. Last year’s Elmore County Player of the
CAPSULES
Continued from B1
Continued from B1 ton.
MARBURY (0-0) AT STANHOPE ELMORE (0-0) THE PLAYERS
Year Donnie Arnold is entering his first year at South Alabama. Now Anderson, at 6-foot2 and 245 pounds, is getting that same chance.
He is currently being recruited by Georgia Tech, Mississippi State, South Alabama, Kennesaw State, Southern Miss, Louisiana
STANHOPE ELMORE: RB Arthur McQueen rushed for 1,420 yards, 13 TDs; added 285 receiving yards. … WR Jamari Coleman had 17 catches for 438 yards, 6 TDs; added 312 yards in the return game. … DE KamRan Anderson recorded 71 tackles, 9 tackles for a loss, 5.5 sacks and 8 quarterback pressures.
MARBURY: RB Jeremyah Williams had 20 carries for 159 yards, 0 TDs. … WR Jeremy Baileynemard had 6 catches for 171 yards, 2 TDs. … DL/OL Micah Wagner will serve as one of the team’s top players in the trenches.
FOUR DOWNS
Stanhope Elmore is 2-0 against Marbury all-time, outscoring the Bulldogs 101-14.
Marbury has lost 11 of its last 13 games and given up at least 35 points in 10 of those losses.
Stanhope Elmore has won 5 of its last 6 season openers.
Despite a 3-7 record last year, Stanhope Elmore was only outscored by 22 total points.
NEXT UP: Stanhope Elmore hosts Prattville; Marbury hosts Bayside Academy.
ELMORE COUNTY (0-0) AT DADEVILLE (0-0) THE PLAYERS
ELMORE COUNTY: RB Parker Hobbs
Monroe, Alabama State, Georgia State and West Georgia.
“We take pride in being really good in the trenches,” Stanhope coach Hunter Adams said. “We put our heart and soul into those groups and we’ve got the guys to be really good with KamRan, Gabe Lewis and
had 34 carries for 226 yards, 1 TD. … LB Jackson Mann recorded 65 tackles, 12 tackles for a loss and 2 forced fumbles. … DE Luke Reinert recorded 42 tackles, 13 tackles for a loss and 7 sacks.
DADEVILLE: QB Cam Heard passed for 213 yards, 1 TD; he added 140 rushing yards, 2 TDs. … RB Brandez Eason rushed for 1,200 yards, 20 TDs. … LB Corde Jefferson recorded 98 tackles and 9 tackles for a loss; added 473 rushing yards, 5 TDs on offense.
FOUR DOWNS
Elmore County coach Kyle Caldwell graduated from Dadeville in 2011. Elmore County is 19-36 against Dadeville all-time, last losing 47-7 in 2021. Elmore County is coming off backto-back winning seasons for the first time since 2007-2008.
Dadeville went 4-5 last season while Elmore County went 8-3. Both teams lost in the first round. NEXT UP: Elmore County hosts Tallassee; Dadeville hosts Handley.
TALLASSEE (0-0) AT MONTGOMERY ACADEMY (0-0) THE PLAYERS
TALLASSEE: RB Josh Griffin had 165 carries for 1,824 yards, 25 TDs at Montgomery Catholic. … WR Jordan King had 60 catches for 1,090 yards, 10 TDs at Pike Road; he added 43 tackles, 3 INTs on defense. … QB Trent Morris started 7 games last year as a freshman. He led Tallassee to its six best offensive performances in the process.
MONTGOMERY ACADEMY: WR D.J. Vinson had 60 catches for 1,381 yards, 14 TDs. … WR Jarrett Friendly, at
Dezmond Barnes. I think we can really depend on those guys to take us to the postseason.”
Last season, Anderson recorded 71 tackles to go along with 9 tackles for a loss, 5.5 sacks and 8 quarterback hurries. He’s spent his final high school offseason training to get better and working on moves to get into the backfield more this season.
6-foot-6, had 3 TDs last season. … ATH David Whisenhunt had 3 INTs on defense; he looks to take the QB role on offense this year.
FOUR DOWNS
Tallassee and Montgomery Academy have never played before. Both teams are coming off program-worst seasons on defense; Montgomery Academy gave up 39.5 points per game while Tallassee gave up 39.7 points per game.
Montgomery Academy has moved down to Class 3A while Tallassee has moved down to 4A.
Tallassee has not had back-to-back losing seasons since 2002-2003. NEXT UP: Tallassee at Elmore County; Montgomery Academy hosts St. James.
TRINITY (0-0)
AT HOLTVILLE (0-0) THE PLAYERS
HOLTVILLE: RB Hunter Chavis had 135 carries for 614 yards, 4 TDs. … WR Elijah Headley had 18 catches for 254 yards, 5 TDs. … DE Anthony Chunn recorded 45 tackles, 9 tackles for a loss, 7.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hurries.
TRINITY: QB Thompson Mcnees completed 34 of 42 passes for 464 yards, 8 TDs, 1 INT. … WR Xavier Boswell had 33 catches for 485 yards, 6 TDs; added 57 tackles, 7 INTs on defense. … DB Luke Hall recorded 60 tackles, 8 tackles for a loss.
FOUR DOWNS
Trinity is 4-0 against Holtville alltime, last winning 42-0 in 1999. Trinity has won nine or more games in four-consecutive seasons.
When Stanhope Elmore hits the field Friday night against Marbury, Anderson plans to show just what he can do when rushing the passer.
“I’m faster than everybody,” Anderson said. “I have a lot of confidence and I have a lot of moves that work on people. I can go back inside and I’m flexible so I can move back inside. If someone can stop all that, I can just bullrush them. … I want to break records. I want to get my team to the region championship and try to get to the state championship.”
Holtville has won six-consecutive season openers dating back to 2018. This is Holtville coach Cory Lee’s first game as a head coach; This is Trinity coach Brian Seymore’s 205th.
NEXT UP: Holtville at Shelby County; Trinity hosts Reeltown.
REELTOWN (0-0)
VS. T.R. MILLER (0-0) THE PLAYERS
REELTOWN: WR/DB Tae Martin had 92 offensive touches for 1,374 yards, 20 TDs; added 120 tackles, 9 tackles for a loss and 6 INTs. … DE Baylor Clayton recorded 74 tackles, 18 tackles for a loss and 11.5 sacks. … RB Traylen Roberts had 67 carries for 616 yards, 8 TDs; T.R. MILLER: LB/DE Myles Johnson is a four-star pass rusher who is currently committed to play at the University of Florida. … QB Nathan Commander completed 100 of 159 passes for 1,187 yards, 16 TDs; added 2 rushing TDs.
… OL/DL John Robert Jernigan stands at 6-foot-4, 240 pounds and plays both sides of the ball.
FOUR DOWNS
Reeltown and T.R. Miller have never played before.
T.R. Miller, at 727 all-time wins, is tied for the most in AHSAA history with Oneonta.
Reeltown is coming off a Class 2A state title game appearance and a 13-1 record. The game is being held at Montgomery’s Cramton Bowl as part of the AHSAA Kickoff Classic on Thursday, Aug. 22. NEXT UP: Reeltown at Trinity; T.R. Miller hosts Straughn.
MILLBROOK
Continued from A2
The investigation started Aug. 9 as Millbrook police responded to a burglary of a Main Street Church. An unknown subject entered the building and stole a debit card belonging to the church. A suspect attempted to use the card at several nearby businesses in the moments after taking it from the church.
On Aug. 11 Millbrook officers responded to a business on Deatsville Highway where an unknown subject made forcible entry and took electronics. On Aug. 12 police were called to a business on Deatsville Highway where a forcible entry was made by an unknown subject who then took a cash box with an undetermined amount of cash.
“There is a very high likelihood of additional charges being filed against,” Johnson said.
“Our detectives were able to recover additional stolen property after completing their interview with him following his arrest.”
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T18N, R17E, thence North 27 degrees 30 minutes West, 698 feet to the South side of the North Elmore-Wetumpka paved road, thence South 86 degrees 15 minutes West, along the South side of said road 750 feet, thence South 17 degrees East, 737.5 feet for the Point of Beginning of the parcel of land to be described, thence continue South 17 degrees East, l00 feet, thence South 75 degrees 20 minutes West, 233.1 feet to the East side of Alabama Highway No. 143, thence North 17 degrees West, along the East side of said road 100 feet, thence North 75 degrees 20 minutes East, 233.1 feet, to the Point of Beginning, said parcel of land being a part of the 5 acre tract of land expected by I.E. Sarber and wife, Ida H. Sarber in thatner by said I.E. Sarber and wife, Ida H. Sarber on September 8, 1922, and recorded in Deed Record R-33 at page 373 of the OfElmore County, Alabama, which said 5 acre tract as thereafter by said I.E. Sarber to said Ida H. Sarber by deed recorded in Deed Record R-44 at Page 356 of said Elmore County Probate for informational purposes: 990 AL Highway 143 , Elmore, AL 36025. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR EN-
MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE
Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Christopher M. Reiff and Lynda S. Reiff, husband and wife, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., solely as nominee for Quicken Loans Inc., on February 25, 2011, said mortgage recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, in
the undersigned Rocket Mortgage, LLC f/k/a Quicken Loans, LLC f/k/a Quicken Loans Inc., as Mortgagee/Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on Sep-gal hours of sale, all of its rights, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Commence at the SW Corner of the SW ¼ of the NW ¼ of Section 26, Township continue thence N 00 degrees
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Business Data AnalystMontgomery, AL. Req’d: Bach’s deg. in Bus. Analytics, Statistics, or Mathematics. Mail resumes to: DAS North America, Inc., 840 Industrial Park Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36117
from $29 month Free 2-minute Quote! We Compare all Insurance providers offers for you! Lowest Rates! Call Now 866-450-0943 Public Notices Public Notices PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Melvin W. Sullivan, married and Brittany M. Sullivan, his wife, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as nominee for Guild Mortgage Company, a California Corporation, on August 28, 2020, said mortgage recordof Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Book 2020 Page recorded in RLPY Book 2024 Page 36625; the undersigned Guild Mortgage Company LLC, as Mortgagee/Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on September 12, 2024, during the legal hours of sale, all of its rights, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: A parcel of land described as follows: Commencing at the Southeast corner of the Southwest 1/4 of the Northeast 1/4, Section 12,
TIES 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. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) to Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price plus any deed recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law at the address indicated below. Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. 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. Guild Mortgage Company LLC, (“Transferee”) Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., 2501 20th Place South, Suite 300, Homewood, AL 35223 www.tblaw.com TB
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 14, 21 and 28, 2024 24-01356
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PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF DIVORCE ACTION PENNY S. BOWEN VS LONNIE W. BOWEN CASE NO. DR-2024-000077.00
Lonnie Wayne Bowen, whose where abouts is unknown, must answer Penny Spain Bowen;s petition for divorce within the 45 days of the publication of this notice, or there after, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Case No. DR-2024-000077.00 Circuit Court of Elmore County, Alabama. Contact Penny S. Bowen at (334)274-3813. Hon. J. Amanda Baxley Circuit Court Judge Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 21, 28, Sept. 4 and 11, 2024 DR-2024-000077.00
to the point on the North side ofthe North side of said Road,
Public Notices
gagee/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. Rocket Mortgage, LLC f/k/a Quicken Loans, LLC f/k/a Quicken Loans Inc.,
the
by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of
The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of
24-04143-QQ-AL PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE
time and place of the
balance of
plus any
recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law the address indicated below. Tifright to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. The Mort-
Default having been made of the terms of the loan documents secured by that certain mortgage executed by Desirae Ann Younger Single Woman to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC, its successors and assigns dated July 13, 2021; said mortgage being recorded on July 15, 2021, in Book 2021, Page 60212 in the of Elmore County, Alabama. Said Mortgage was last sold, assigned and transferred to CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC by assignment recorded in Deed Book 2024, Page 36821 Probate of Elmore County, ALABAMA. The undersigned, CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash before the main entrance of the Court House in Elmore County, Alabama during the legal hours of sale (between 11am and 4pm), on the 3rd day of September, 2024 the following property, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Commence at the SW corner of the SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 2, T18N, R17E, Elmore County, Alabama; thence North 312.74 to the SW R.O.W. of Highway No. 143, (80’ RightOf-Way); thence continue along said R.O.W., South 42 deg. 32 min. 00 sec. East, 502.5 feet to an iron pin and the Point of Beginning for the following described property; thence leaving said P.O.B. continue along said R-O-W, South 42 deg. 32 min. 00 sec. East, 89.95 feet to an iron pin; thence leaving said R-O-W South 44 deg. 52 min. 39 sec. West, 494.67 feet to an iron pin; thence North 78 deg. 01 min. 04 sec. West, 109.68 feet to an iron said pin; thence North 45 deg. 07 min. 04 sec. East, 558.30 feet to the Point of Beginning. Said parcel lying in the SE 1/4 of Section 2, T18N, R17E, Elmore County, Alabama, and containing 1.087 acres, more or less. Said property is commonly known as 2211 Al Highway 143, Elmore, AL 36025. the property address and the legal description the legal description will control. Said property will be sold subject to any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), the right of redemption of any taxing authority, all outstanding liens for public utilities which constitute liens upon the property, any matters which might be disclosed by an accurate survey and inspection of the property, any assessments, liens, encumbrances, easements, rights-of-way, zoning ordinances, restrictions, special assessments, covenants, the statutory right of redemption pursuant to Alabama law, and any matters of record including, but not limited to, those supeout above. Said property will be sold on an “as-is” basis without any representation, warranty or recourse against the abovenamed or the undersigned. The successful bidder must present the winning bid at the time and place of sale. 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 sale will be conducted subsale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) of the status of the loan with the holder of the Mortgage. CROSSCOUNTRY MORTGAGE, LLC as holder of said mortgage McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC 505 20th Street North, Suite 1775 Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 216-4238 FT21@mccalla.com File No. 24-05762AL www.foreclosurehotline.net Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 7, 14 and 21, 2024 24-05762AL PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE Default having been made of the terms of the loan documents secured by that certain mortgage executed by Michael S Wyatt to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for GMFS LLC, its successors
Public Notices
and assigns dated October 31, 2018; said mortgage being recorded on November 1, 2018, in Book 2018, Page 52087 inbate of Elmore County, Alabama. Said Mortgage was last sold, assigned and transferred to GMFS LLC by assignment recorded in Deed Book 2019, County, ALABAMA. The undersigned, GMFS LLC, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash before the main entrance of the Court House in Elmore County, Alabama during the legal hours of sale (between 11am and 4pm), on the 26th day of September, 2024 the following property, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 5, according to the Map of Dusty Meadows Subdivision Plat No. 1 nka Lake Breeze Subdivision Plat No. 1 by name charge recorded in Roll 170, Frame 1401, as the same apCounty, Alabama in Plat Book 11 at Page 93. Said property is commonly Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092. the property address and the legal description the legal description will control. Said property will be sold subject to any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), the right of redemption of any taxing authority, all outstanding liens for public utilities which constitute liens upon the property, any matters which might be disclosed by an accurate survey and inspection of the property, any assessments, liens, encumbrances, easements, rights-of-way, zoning ordinances, restrictions, special assessments, covenants, the statutory right of redemption pursuant to Alabama law, and any matters of record including, but not limited to, those supeout above. Said property will be sold on an “as-is” basis without any representation, warranty or recourse against the abovenamed or the undersigned. The successful bidder must present the winning bid at the time and place of sale. 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 sale will be conducted subsale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) of the status of the loan with the holder of the Mortgage. GMFS LLC as holder of said mortgage McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC 505 20th Street North, Suite 1775 Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 2164238 FT21@mccalla.com File No. 24-05789AL www.foreclosurehotline.net
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 14, 21 and 28, 2024 24-05789AL
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that application has been made to the Council of the City of Wetumpka for approval of a 020- Restaurant Retail Liquor (On Premises Only) Name of Applicant: WOW CATERING LLC Trade Name: WOW ON BRIDGE STREET Address: 121 E. BRIDGE STREET Wetumpka, AL 36092
Public Hearing on said application has been scheduled for September 3, 2024 at 12 Noon., before the Wetumpka City Council at the City Council meeting, City Admin Building 408 South Main St., Wetumpka, AL. Anyone desiring to be heard either for or against said application may appear at said time or may indicate their wishes in writing by communication addressed to the City Council, 408 South Main Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092. Persons with disabilities who may need special assistance should contact the City Clerk’s call (334) 567-1306 at least two business days in advance of the meeting. The meeting facilities are wheelchair accessible. Tiffany Robinson, City Clerk Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 21, 2024 APPLICATION
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Council of the City of Wetumpka will hold a public hearing during its regular meeting on Monday, September 16, 2024, concerning an ordinance to amend Ordinance 99-4, entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Wetumpka,” by rezoning property lying in the NE 4 of the SE 4 of Section 14, T-18 N, R-18E, Elmore County, Alabama and containing 5.92 acres, more or less. The property will be rezoned from B-2 - R-3. Public notice of this hearing text of the proposed ordinance on August 14, 2024, in the Wetumpka Herald. Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 21, 2024 HEARING SEPT. 16
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE
Default having been made of the terms of the loan documents secured by that certain mortgage executed by Lenora Davidson , Unmarried to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Bayshore Mortgage Funding, LLC, its successors and assigns dated December 29, 2022; said mortgage being recorded on January 4, 2023, in Book 2023,
out above. Said property will be sold on an “as-is” basis without any representation, warranty or recourse against the abovenamed or the undersigned. The successful bidder must present the winning bid at the time and place of sale. 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 sale will be conducted subsale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) of the status of the loan with the holder of the Mortgage. DATA MORTGAGE, INC. DBA ESSEX MORTGAGE as holder of said mortgage McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC 505 20th Street North, Suite 1775 Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 216-4238 FT21@mccalla.com File No. 24-05890AL www.foreclosurehotline.net
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 14, 21 and 28, 2024 24-05890AL PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA HARTFORD UNDERWRITERS INSURANCE COMPANY V. TRIMMER UP TREE SERVICE, LLC CASE NO. CV-2023-900117
This cause of action is a civil lawsuit against Trimmer Up statement of account, open account, and breach of conof account, open account, and breach of contract claim has caused $77,803.00 in damages to the Plaintiff, plus cmui costs. In this case, it is made to appear c01msel for Plaintiff stating that Defendant is avoiding service and has concealed themselves so that the summons and complaint cannot be served upon them, and further, that said Defendant is over the age of twenty one (21) years. It is, therefore, ordered that publication be made in The Wetumpka Herald, a newspaper published in the County of Elmore and State of Alabama, for four (4) consecutive weeks, and the said Defendant is hereby summons and complaint, and to be and appear if they think proper to defend this action at the present term of this Court, and within thirty days after this notice by publication is completed. Witness in my hands this 13th day of June, 2024 Wetumpka Herald: July 31, Aug. 7, 14 and 21, 2024 29-CV-23-900117
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Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE INVITATION FOR SEALED BIDS
The Elmore County Commission is seeking bids for site grading, drainage, excavation, concrete installation, and ath-tions. Information, construction plans and bid book are available from Elmore County Richie Beyer at wrbechd@ elmoreco.org. Sealed bids are to be received no later than 2:00 P.M. on WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2024. Enclose bids in a sealed envelope. The bids must be marked with the word “BID” on the outside of the bid package along with Bid Proposal for Inquiry 2024-PW9 Quality of Life Phase II Field Replacement Projects for Eclectic, Holtville, and Tallassee, the bid date, name of the work, name of bidder, and the Alabama General Contractor’s License Number. Prepare bid proposal on form bound in Project Manual or copy thereof. No additions or deductions to bid proposal will be accepted if written on outside of sealed bid. Furnish two original copies of bid proposal. check or bid bond payable to Elmore County Commission in ancent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00. Include one copy of General Contractor’s License Submit bid proposals to: Elmore County Chief Richie Beyer Elmore County Commission 100 E. Commerce Street, Suite 200 Wetumpka, AL 36092 Bidders must direct all inquiries concerning construction plans and bid book in writing to Elmore County Chief Beyer at wrbechd@elmoreco. org.
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 7, 14 and 21, 2024 BID PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARGARET ERICKSEN BARKER, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-191 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of MARGARET ERICKSEN BARKER, deceased, having been granted to CYN-
THIA B. BRIDGMAN and LISA
B. COLLEY on the 29th day of July, 2024 by D. Jason Britt, Special 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.
CYNTHIA B. BRIDGMAN and LISA B. COLLEY CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ESTATE OF MARGARET ERICKSEN BARKER, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for Co-Personal Representatives: ROBERT B. RENEAU LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 14, 21 and 28, 2024 EST/BARKER, M. PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE PROBATE JUDGE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE CASE NO: 2024-197 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LOYT ELWIN CALLOWAY, DECEASED
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of LOYT ELWIN CALLOWAY, deceased, having been granted to KIMBERLY WHIGHAM on the 1st day of August , 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.
KIMBERLY WHIGHAM PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF LOYT ELWIN CALLOWAY, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for such
Personal Representative:
JOSEPH K. BAMBURG ATTORNEY AT LAW 4031 US HWY 231 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36093 334-478-3196
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 7, 14 and 21, 2024 EST/CALLOWAY, L.
PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
WETUMPKA WATER WORKS & SEWER BOARD WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 2023 SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM REHABILITATIONS
Sealed bids for the 2023 CWSRF Sanitary Sewer System Rehabilitations CS01046006 CMGM230096(2) will be received at Wetumpka Water at 2909 Elmore Road, Building
Public Notices
g #2915, Wetumpka, AL 36092, until Thursday, September 26 at 2:30 p.m. local time at which time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud. The Project includes the following Work: The CCTV evaluation and CIPP installation of approximately 9,550 LF of various diameter gravity sewer main and approximately 50 manhole inspections. Information for the Project can be found at the following designated website: www. gmcnetwork.comding Documents is Goodwyn Mills Cawood, LLC, 11 N. Water St., Suite 19290, Mobile, AL 36602, ashley.morris@ gmcnetwork.com. Prospective Bidders may examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., and may obtain copies of the Bidding Docuas described below. Copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from the indicated above, upon payment of $20.00 for a one-time administrative fee for digital access/ each printed set. Said cost represents the cost of printing, reproduction, handling, and distribution, therefore no refund will be granted. Checks for Bidding Documents shall be payable to “GMC.” Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including Addenda if any, obtained from sources other than the Is-
Bid security shall be furnished in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. This project is being funded by and will require DBE documentation from the low, responsive, responsible bidder no later than 10 days after the bid opening. All participants must comply with all federal requirements applicable to the Loan (includAppropriations Act and related the Participant understands includes, among other, requirements that all of the iron and steel products used in the Project are to be produced in the United States (“American and those imposed by the Build requirements.
The Owner reserves the right to waive any informalities, or to reject any or all bids, and to award the contract to the lowest, responsive, and responsible bidder. All bidders shall submit, upon request, a list of projects “successfully completed” in the last 2 years, having the same scope of work and approximate in this project. All bidders must comply with requirements of the Contractor’s Licensing Law of the State of Alabama and be which the proposal is submitted. Each bidder must deposit with his bid, security in the amount, form and subject to the conditions provided in the Instructions to Bidders. All Bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions Alabama, 1975, and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Engineer; the Bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying the license number on the outside of the envelope in which the Proposal is delivered. No bidder may withdraw his bid within 60 days after the opening thereof.
Owner: Wetumpka Water Works & Sewer Board By: John Strickland Title: Chairman Wetumpka Herald: CMGM230096(2)
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBTATE COURT OF TALLAPOOSA COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PAULINE H. CARLISLE, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-0158
TAKE NOTICE that Letters Administration have been granted to Betty Carlisle Tapley, as Administratrix of the Estate of Pauline H. Carlisle, deceased, on the 11th day of August, 2023, by the Honorable Talmadge East, Probate Judge of Tallapoosa County. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Betty Carlisle Tapley, Administratrix of the Estate of Pauline H. Carlisle, Deceased /s/Betty Carlisle Tapley Betty Carlisle Tapley Administrator of the Estate of Pauline H. Carlisle, Deceased PREPARED BY: Kim Clark, Legal Assistant CORY WATSON, P.C. 2131 Magnolia Avenue, Suite 200 Birmingham, Alabama 35205 205-328-2200 Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 7, 14 and 21, 2024 EST/CARLISLE P.
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CHARLES T. COLE, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-202 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of CHARLES T. COLE, deceased, having been granted to KIMBERLY COLE MOSES on August 2nd, 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.
KIMBERLY COLE MOSES
PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF CHARLES T. COLE, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: D.
JASON BRITT STONE & BRITT, LLC
ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS AT LAW 114 S MAIN ST PO BOX 967 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-517-6520
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 7, 14 and 21, 2024 EST/COLE C.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GARY MICHAEL COOPER, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-206 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of GARY MICHAEL COOPER, deceased, having been granted to ROBERT LEAVELL on August 7th, 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.
ROBERT LEAVELL ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF GARY MICHAEL COOPER, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: STEVEN A. HARRIS THE HARRIS FIRM, LLC 4000 EAGLE POINT CORPORATE DRIVE SUITE 303 BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 35242 205-307-5956 stevenharris@theharrisfirmllc. com
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 14, 21 and 28, 2024 EST/COOPER, G. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CORA ANNETTE DEVAUGHN, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-127 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters of Administration over the Estate of CORA ANNETTE DEVAUGHN, deceased, having been granted to BARRY PHILLIP DEVAUGHN on August 5 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.
BARRY PHILLIP DEVAUGHN ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF CORA ANNETTE DEVAUGHN, DECEASED
Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: J. C. WEBB IV WEBB LAW, INC. 10380 HOLTVILLE ROAD DEATSVILLE, ALABAMA 36022 334-569-9149 Jc.webb@webblaw.com
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 14, 21 and 28, 2024 EST/DEVAUGHN. C. PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DOUGLAS BARRY FELKER, CASE NO: 2024-171 DECEASED NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of DOUGLAS BARRY FELKER, deceased, having been granted to CHAD BRANTLEY on August 15, 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.
CHAD BRANTLEY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF DOUGLAS BARRY FELKER, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative:
Public Notices p ROBERT B. RENEAU LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS. P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 21, 28, and Sept. 4, 2024 EST/FELKER, D. PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LEWIS E. GARRISON, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-181 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration with Will Annexed over the Estate of LEWIS E. GARRISON, deceased, having been granted to JOSEPH PAYNE GARRISON on the 15th day of August, 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.
JOSEPH PAYNE GARRISON ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF LEWIS E. GARRISON, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: ROBERT B. RENEAU LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-5141011
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 21, 28, and Sept. 4, 2024
EST/GARRISON L. PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ANN S. GRAY, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024- 205 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to AMANDA G. BRADLEY as Personal Representative on the 8th day of August 2024, by the Honorable JOHN THORNTON, Judge of Probate of said County in said State, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are required to present same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
AMANDA G. BRADLEY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF ANN S. GRAY, 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: Aug. 14, 21 and 28, 2024 EST/GRAY, A.
PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA PROBATE JUDGE ELMORE COUNTY, AL IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JIMMY R. HART, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024- 207 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to KRISTI M. BUSH as Executor on the day of August 8th day of August, 2024, by the Honorable John Thornton, Judge of Probate of said County in said State, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are required to present same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
KRISTI M. BUSH EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF JIMMY R. HART, 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: Aug. 14, 21 and 28, 2024
EST/HART J.
PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT DALE HILL, DECEASED. CASE NO. 2024-187 NOTICE OF FILING OF WILL FOR PROBATE TO: SHAUNA LEE CARLONE, A NON-RESIDENT OF THE STATE OF ALABAMA AND A NEXT OF KIN OF ROBERT DALE HILL; AND TO: ANY OTHER UNKNOWN NEXT OF KIN OF ROBERT DALE HILL, DECEASED; AND TO ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTY YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on July 17, 2024 a certain paper in writing purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of ROBERT DALE HILL, deCourt of Elmore County, Alabama by EDWARD FILLMORE HILL. 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 ROBERT DALE HILL.
Public Notices
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 oftice, the Court will proceed with considering such Petition without further notice to you.
JOHN THORNTON JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA Name and Address of Attorney for Petitioner: MICHAEL S. HARPER ATTORNEY AT LAW 213 BARNETT BLVD P O BOX 780608 TALLASSEE. ALABAMA 36078 334-283-6855
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 21, 28 and Sept. 4, 2024 EST/HILL, R. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CARL E. MCQUEENEY, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024-183 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to TRESSA W. JALLATH as Executrix on the 13th day of August 2024, by the Honorable John Thornton, Judge of Probate of said County in said State, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are required to present same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
TRESSA W. JALLATH EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTAET OF CARL E. MCQUEENEY, 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: Aug. 21, 28 and Sept. 4, 2024 EST/MCQUEENEY C. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RUTH BELLE WHITE DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-210 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of RUTH BELLE WHITE, deceased, having been granted to CATHY WHITE GIVAN on August 8, 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.
CATHY WHITE GIVAN ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF RUTH BELLE WHITE, DECEASED
Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: ROBERT H. PETTEY SAMFORD & DENSON. LLP P O BOX 2345 OPELIKA, ALABAMA 36803-2345 334-745-3504
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 14, 21, 28 and Sept. 4, 2024 EST/WHITE, R. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF VANDA MAUREEN WHITFIELD, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024- 201 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of VANDA MAUREEN WHITFIELD, deceased, having been granted to LOUIS BROUGHTON WHITFIELD, IV, on the 1st day of August 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.
LOUIS BROUGHTON WHITFIELD, IV, ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF VANDA MAUREEN WHITFIELD
Regina B. Edwards, Esq. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, P.C. Attorney for Administrator 109 E. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 7, 14 and 21, 2024 EST/WHITFIELD V. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY ANN WILLIAMS, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-203 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of DOROTHY ANN WILLIAMS, deceased, having been granted to MICHAEL E. WILLIAMS on August 12, 2024 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said es-
Public Notices
gg tate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
MICHAEL E. WILLIAMS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY ANN WILLIAMS, DECEASED
Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: KYLE MASSENGALE WILMER & LEE, P.A. PO BOX 1429 DECATUR, ALABAMA 35602 256-350-1109 kmassengale@wilmerlee.com
Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 21, 28 and Sept. 4, 2024 EST/WILLIAMS, D. PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS FEDERAL AID PROJECT NO. HSIP-0006(601) ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA
Sealed bids will be received by the Director of Transportation
Plans and Proposals are avail-
and are set forth in the adver-
Cashier’s check or bid bond
ny each bid as evidence of good The bracket range is shown
this bracket have any bearing on the decision to award this
The proposed work shall be
sponse to this invitation and will
Transportation Director HSIP-0006(601)
Raise your hand if you want your business to make LESS money next year.
We didn’t think you would. Do you need to successfully market on a tight budget? Tallapoosa and Elmore County Classifieds has customizable programs available to fit any budget. DON’T WAIT! Call TODAY 256.277.4219
Eclectic officials working through new budget
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
It’s a process every municipality goes through each year — a budget.
It helps guide councilmembers, mayor and other officials through revenues and expenditures for the next fiscal year. It’s done department by department. It is no different in Eclectic where the town council and staff are about two-thirds through the process.
Mayor Gary Davenport said the town is seeking some input and help as it works through its budget.
The town faces decisions concerning the recycling program and senior center.
“We have been crunching numbers,” Davenport said.
“We are losing about $3,000 to $5,000 per year having the recycle center open. We are wanting to gauge the interest of the residents about it.
What are their feelings about it if we had to close it?”
Based on market conditions over the past few years, Eclectic’s recycling center takes only aluminum, scrap and cardboard.
There is one employee who visits a few locations across town to collect cardboard.
“They call when they have cardboard stacked up,” Davenport said. “The school is one the biggest contributors of cardboard.”
At the center the cardboard is bundled to allow easier transport to recyclers. Paper and cans are also packaged for the same purpose.
“The issue is the efforts are not paying for themselves,” Davenport said. “It’s not just us either. Prices for recyclables are not there to
cover the funding.”
Davenport hopes the public will reach out to town officials with their thoughts on the recycling program.
He also hopes the public will encourage those eligible to enroll in programs at the Eclectic Senior Center.
It even includes a hot meal five days a week that is funded by the state. The center is currently averaging about 17 to 20 meals per day with about eight to 10 of those being delivered to homebound residents.
The town provides the staffing and the facility. Volunteers help and donations have added refrigerators, coolers and cooking utensils.
But some of the state funding is at risk and the town may be forced to help more. It is the reason town officials are delaying major discussions on the senior center.
“They cut us last year about five meals per day,”
Davenport said. “We are afraid they are going to cut us back again.”
Over the last couple of years the senior center has lost some members due to moving to long-term facilities or deaths.
“The funding for the meals is based on attendance,” Davenport said.
Town officials are hoping to get a better understanding of future attendance to also help with a decision about the center’s van.
“The current van is old and going to have to be replaced,” Davenport said.
“Because of the expenses and the number of seniors we will likely get a 15-passenger van instead of the big van we currently have. It will help us with the budget.”
CALDWELL FACES ALMA MATER TO OPEN
2024 SEASON
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Kyle Caldwell is headed home Friday night. The third-year Elmore County football coach is opening the 2024 football season by coaching against his alma mater for the first time in his football coaching career.
The Panthers hit the road to face Dadeville at 7 p.m. Friday. When they do, Caldwell will face his former squad, where familiar faces will be in the stands and on the Dadeville coaching staff. Caldwell, who also coaches girls basketball, faced Dadeville and his mom, Dadeville girls coach Brownie Caldwell, once last winter.
But this will be his first matchup on the gridiron.
“It’s been an interesting preseason leading up to it to say the least,” Caldwell said. “Of course my sister (Addie) still goes to school there and she’s a junior. There’s been some trash talk back and forth between us two, but at the end of the day I just want my kids to play really hard and do what they have to do to win the game. It doesn’t matter what team we are facing.”
The game was not on either team’s original schedule.
When schedules were announced in the spring, Dadeville was originally slated to travel to Georgia
in what was a brutal non-region schedule with Handley, Reeltown and Valley also on tap.
When Chad McKelvey took over the program this offseason from Roger McDonald, that game was nixed and Dadeville was looking for a new opponent.
Elmore County was originally slated to travel to Chelsea during Week 0. But when Dadeville came calling, it was a game Caldwell couldn’t pass up, especially when it comes to the financial benefits.
“Dadeville’s non-region schedule was just brutal,” Caldwell said. “Being geographically close, it makes perfect sense to play each other. The schools have played each other in the past, and it’s 30 minutes away so it should be great fan support both years.”
Caldwell is no stranger to this rivalry. As a four-year starter as Dadeville’s quarterback from 2007-2010, he played Elmore County twice — as a freshman and as a senior.
He went 1-1 against the Panthers, losing 41-14 as a freshman and winning 31-27 as a senior.
After an illustrious and record-setting career as a quarterback at West Alabama, Caldwell began his coaching career. During his second and third years in the coaching business, he was Dadeville’s offensive coordinator in 2016 and 2017.
Caldwell faced Elmore County both seasons he was the offensive coordinator. Dadeville won both games, 42-14 and 35-21. Since he has been at Elmore County, the teams have not met.
Caldwell is also not a stranger to the new Dadeville coach.
McKelvey was Caldwell’s offensive coordinator when he was in high school. Under McKelvey, Caldwell recorded a 33-14 overall record and three seasons with 10 wins or more.
“McKelvey was there for my entire high school career,” Caldwell said. “I think he transitioned out of that role two years after I graduated. I know he’s coming into the program again but he’s done a great job already of creating some buzz around the program.”
Dadeville is coming off a 4-5 record where the Tigers lost in the first round of the Class 3A playoffs to Thomasville, 28-0.
Elmore County, which went 0-10 the year before Caldwell was hired, was 8-3 last year with a first-round loss to Faith Academy in the Class 5A playoffs.
Caldwell and the Panthers are heading to Dadeville for a win, and he will leave celebrating with the family until after the game.
“There’s going to be a lot of family and friends there to watch,” Caldwell said. “It’s going to be a special night after the game.”
Lake Martin Reflections set to open Saturday
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Lake Martin is always relaxing.
The lake and its shorelines provide a chance to soak up the rays and let the stress of life melt away Those seeking to relax will have another way to relax at Lake Martin Reflections with its cosmetology, aestheticist and massage services.
“There is nothing like this in the area,” Lake Martin Reflections owner Amanda Hooks said. “We have a population of people who drive outside Eclectic for services.”
The new salon will have cosmetologists for hair cuts, styles and
coloring, estheticians for facials, waxing, permanent eyebrows and body polishes and a massage therapist for 30 minute and one hour massages.
“She will also have a massage chair or you can get just a foot and neck massage,” Hooks said. “I’m looking for a nail person to add to the list of services we provide.”
Hooks is no stranger to Eclectic or salons having worked in them in the area for the last 19 years.
“I have been at Cut N’ Up Salon in Kowaliga for the past 16 years,” Hooks said. I was in Eclectic three years prior to that.” Hooks’ experience leads her to believe Lake
Martin Reflections will be successful.
“We have the customers to support this,” Hooks said. “I think
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI
ABOVE: The Eclectic Recycle Center just behind the Eclec-
tic Fire Department takes aluminum cans, paper and cardboard.
BELOW: The Eclectic Town Council is seeking public comment about the town’s recycling center.The council is in the budgeting process and trying to determine if the extra costs associated with the center are worthwhile.
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI
Lake Martin Reflections Salon and Spa is holding a grand opening and ribbon cutting Saturday. Eclectic stylist Amanda Hooks is bringing in other stylists, a massage therapist and esthecians to the location on Highway 63 in Eclectic.
Elmore County Kyle Caldwell, a Dadeville native, returns home to coach against his alma mater for the first time as a football coach.