By Cliff Williams Staff Writer
‘Cat ladies’ case no longer being prosecuted
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
The City of Wetumpka is no longer pursuing third-degree criminal trespass charges against Beverly Roberts, 85, and Mary Alston, 61.
The Wetumpka women were found guilty of third-degree criminal trespassing in December in municipal court and appealed the decision to circuit court.
According to court records, last Wednesday the City of Wetumpka through its prosecutor W. Kendrick James filed motions to have the charges against the women nolle prosse, meaning the city is no longer prosecuting the trespassing charges from June 2022 arrests. The motion was granted by 19th Circuit Court Judge Amanda Baxley Wednesday afternoon.
Holtville High School basketball coach
Chamber holds luncheon welcoming members
By Cliff Williams Staff Writer
James had recused himself from the original case because of a conflict of interest but filed a notice of appearance with court to file the nollee prosse motion, stating the appearance was only for the motion.
No reason was given for the City of
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.
“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 CHAMBER, Page A3
CLIFF WILLIAMS THE HERLAND
Elmore County Schools hosted its third annual ability games at the Wetumpka Sports Complex Friday. The event featured students from all of the Elmore County Schools taking part in a field day highlighted by a visit from Gov. Kay Ivey, Aubie and
‘Let
the Games begin!’
Elmore County Schools host third annual Ability Games
Members of the Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce attend the chamber’s “A Taste of Our Home Town” luncheon. CLIFF WILLIAMS/ THE HERALD
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Elmore County students competed basketball, balance beam, tic-tac-toe and more at the Wetumpka Sports Complex — all under the eyes of Gov. Kay Ivey.
By Jake Arthur Chief Videographer
4 DEAD, 32 WOUNDED IN DADEVILLE SHOOTING
on the See SHOOTING, Page A3
Holtville’s Futral Alabama principal of the year
Staff Report
The Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals
The Elmore County Schools third annual Ability Games highlighted the special needs students in a day of fun for all.
(AASSP) named Holtville High School principal Kyle Futral the 2022 Alabama High School Principal of the Year.
“It’s great to come together and put on such a wonderful day for these extraordinary and resilient young folks showcasing their talents while building their confidence and memories that will last a
REMEMBERING LIVES LOST
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.
4 left dead after mass shooting in Dadeville
“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
By HENRY ZIMMER Sports Writer
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
WILSON
Obituaries
WILLIAM (BILL)
THOMAS ALLEN
William (Bill) Thomas Allen, 80, a resident of Arab, Alabama, passed away Sunday, April 2, 2023. Bill is survived by daughter, Andrea Allen Weathington (Tom); son, Bryant Allen (Kristin); daughter, Lori Allen Tatom (Frank); six Grandchildren (William Weathington, Harrison Weathington, Riley Allen, Reese Allen, Benton Tatom and Maggie Tatom); brother, Johnny Allen; and sister, Sally Allen. He is preceded in death by his wife, Jane Allen; mother, Maggie Allen; father, Milton Allen; and 5 brothers and sisters. Bill and Jane lived in Elmore County from 1970 - 2008 (38 years). They were members of the Mt. Hebron Church
of Christ in Eclectic, AL, where Bill served as an elder. During this time, Bill taught drafting at the Elmore County Vocational School and later became the Technical Director for the Elmore County School System. While in Elmore County, he mostly enjoyed fishing in Lake Martin and planting very large gardens, providing vegetables to many friends and neighbors.
Pet of the Week – Diamond
Diamond is a one-two year old female Pit mix, about 55 lbs. This girl is a doll! She is great with all dogs, male and female, cats and children and is housetrained. She adores attention, loves to give hugs and cuddle. Playful but happy to chill and get petted or brushed.
Our adoption fees are $100 for dogs & $50 for cats under one-year-old; cats over one-year-old can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee completely covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, de-worming, microchip,
Elmore County Community Calendar
SATURDAY, APRIL 22
DOWNTOWN ART SHOW: Don Sawyer is hosting a Downtown Artists Art Show in downtown Wetumpka Saturday, April 22.
CRAWFISH BOIL: The rotary club will be hosting its first drive-thru crawfish boil from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 22. It is $25 for dinner, which includes fresh Cajun crawfish, potatoes, sausage and corn. You can preorder at www.Facebook.com/rotary and pick up at God’s Congregational Church fellowship hall in Tallassee. For more information, contact Stephanie Weldon at 334-306-1161.
ONGOING
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME: After more than a year long hiatus, Preschool Storytime has resumed at the Wetumpka Public Library. The first story time was held on Friday, May 14, and will take place every Friday at the library at 10 a.m.
ECLECTIC TOWN COUNCIL
MEETINGS: Eclectic Town Council
heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough, free health exam with your participating veterinarian. If you are interested in meeting Diamond or any of our pets, the first step is to complete our adoption application online. Once approved, someone will set up an appointment for you to meet & adopt. The shelter is located at 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, AL, 36092, our phone number is 334-567-3377 and our website is www.elmorehumane.org for more information.
meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at Town Hall. Council meetings begin at 7 p.m. with work sessions taking place prior to the meeting at 6 p.m. Meetings are held in the Dr. M. L. Fielder Municipal Building, 145 Main Street.
NAACP MEETINGS : The Elmore County Branch No. 5026 of the NAACP meets at 6:30 p.m. every third Tuesday (executive committee) and every fourth Tuesday (full membership) at the Martin Luther King Center at 200 North Lancaster St. in Wetumpka.
LIVING WORD: You belong here. You and your family are always welcome here. We are located at 1826 Kowaliga Road Eclectic, across from the Dollar General. Call 334-4920777 for more information.
OPEN MIC: The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts an open mic jam session from 7 to 9 p.m. every second Friday of the month at 560 Highway 9 in Equality. There is no charge but donations are welcome
as they keep the center running. Bring a snack or finger food to share during the intermission.
RED HILL COMMUNITY CLUB
MEETINGS: Red Hill Community Club Meetings are held every second Monday of the month. Join the Red Hill Historical Preservation Association in the auditorium of the Old Red Hill School, located off state Route 229 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss upcoming events.
MOUNT HEBRON CHURCH OF CHRIST: Come join us at 4530 Mt. Hebron Road in Eclectic. Our Sunday school begins at 9 a.m. followed by worship service at 10:30. There is also a Wednesday night Bible study at 7 p.m. For more information call Pastor Edwin Walker at 334-541-2025 LUNCH AND LEARN: Lunch and learn Tuesdays with Kelly are scheduled at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery at 124 Company Street in Wetumpka from noon to 1 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. For more information, visit www.thekelly.org.
Page A4 • April 19, 2023
Weddings, Engagements, Anniversaries, or Birth
Announcements: These significant family events or milestones are 35 cents per word and $25 for a photo and must be emailed to us at announcements@thewetumpkaherald.com. Include name and telephone number. The text for the announcement must be in the body of the email (not as an attachment) and photographs must be sent as a .jpeg attached to the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Herald or The Tribune.
The shoes and the night I will never forget
When I got a text at midnight Saturday saying there might have been a shooting in Dadeville, I never thought I’d be walking into the disaster I did.
I called our news reporter, Will Marlow, and told him I’d run up there and just to hang back, call Tallapoosa County Sheriff Jimmy Abbett or Dadeville Police Chief Jonathan Floyd. “Just see if you can get a quick update, ask them what’s up,” I said.
When I turned the corner off Highway 280 a mere 14 minutes later, I was shocked. Blue lights blinded me. From every direction, the lights spun in their circles across the black night. I still had no idea what was happening, but I felt like I couldn’t breathe.
I immediately spoke to an officer on scene at 12:05 a.m. Sunday, and he said he couldn’t tell me anything but a press conference was coming soon. (Who knew “soon” meant 10 ½ hours later? But that’s a column for another day.) So I walked around, I
LIZI GWIN Managing Editor
listened, I watched as people cried and screamed, begging for answers and for their children.
After about 30 minutes or so on scene, I found an officer who told me where the crime scene was and how to get closer. I walked down the alley next to Dadeville City Hall. There was almost no one there at this time; don’t forget. It wasn’t till hours later when the news media started arriving and people from around the area crowded in.
In that moment at 12:30 a.m. though, I was on my own, walking down a dark alley knowing I was coming up on a crime scene. Was this really my life? I couldn’t fully comprehend this was actually happening.
When I first saw the crime scene though, I knew. I texted my brother and said to him, “Friend, I think
we’ve had a mass shooting.”
My whole body felt deflated. I didn’t want it to be true. It couldn’t be true.
But as I saw the many pairs of abandoned shoes just outside the doorway of Mahogany Masterpiece, I knew. When I saw bullet holes in the windows, I knew. When I heard families in utter, raw, unfiltered grief, I knew.
I knew our town was never going to be the same again.
Then I sat, and I waited. For hours and hours, I sat next to American Tax just across Broadnax Street from the dance studio. I watched as the Crime Scene Unit truck got there. I watched as they brought out those haunting yellow evidence markers.
Those yellow markers were everywhere. I watched as investigators put the markers all around the shoes — around the parking lot between Mahogany and PNC, even in the roadway of Broadnax Street not 30 feet from where I was sitting. I saw photographers
enter, and later the coroner. I’ve watched enough true crime to know what was happening almost every step of the way.
I kept my focus on those shoes, though. Then all of sudden, the investigators were done and they started bagging everything up. In brown paper bags like you’d take to school for lunch, the little yellow markers were put away. The evidence was gathered.
The shoes were bagged, and something about that felt so final to me. I had been watching those shoes for hours. Knowing they were on the feet of teenagers. The bright oranges and neon greens stood out like a flash of life amongst a scene of heartache. Those shoes were just the right fit for a bunch of youngsters, dressed to the nines and having a blast.
Then they were gone. And I don’t know if we’ll ever be the same again.
Lizi Arbogast Gwin is the managing editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.
Our
national debt is unsustainable
As the first Regular Session of the Quadrennium evolves there are a myriad of complex issues arising. I am reminded of three simple truisms regarding the Alabama legislature and the governing of the state.
First of all, if anything significant or controversial or any major initiative is to be addressed then it is dealt with in the first year of the four-year quadrennium, giving legislators three years before their constituents vote again. The political pragmatism and expectation is voters will forget.
Secondly, there may seem to be an urge to deal with all the hundreds of bills thrown into the hopper and special interest groups or lobbyists are espousing a particular piece of legislation must be dealt with or it will be the downfall of the state.
This is not so. The only definitive legislation that has to be dealt with are the state budgets. That is the only constitutional mandate required of legislators in a session.
The third truism surrounds the second.
In regard to passage of the budget, our Constitution wisely has a sacrosanct conservative mandate that there must be a balanced budget. The Alabama Legislature cannot deficit spend or overspend the projected revenues for the year.
Our current super Republican majority legislature is so conservative, it not only adheres to the Constitutional prohibition against deficit spending, it does not even spend 100% of the year’s budget.
For the past decade the legislature has put state revenues away into a rainy day fund. It is truly budgeting conservatively.
If that were only true of our United States Congress. Our U.S. congressmen and senators are simply printing money in Washington. They are recklessly spending our nation into an abysmal hole — one that we may never be able to get out of.
This tremendous federal deficit is our nation’s most acute problem. The United States cannot survive and keep spending money we do not have. Our national debt is so high we are basically nothing more than a third world country. Communist China will not take us over militarily or by flying balloons over our country; it will take us over without firing one bullet. It will defeat us economically.
Again, it is a serious problem that must be addressed if we are to survive as a nation.
The national debt is so devastating that within the next year it will be higher than our Gross National Product (GNP).
In fiscal year 2022 alone, the deficit was $1.4 trillion. The total national deficit is so high it is difficult for the treasury or economic analysts to accurately assess. It is between $400 trillion to $528 trillion.
To put it closer to home, the federal debt per person for every man, woman, and child and yes, that includes you and your children and grandchildren, is $96,403 per person. That is what your federal government
legislators have done to you. It is simply unsustainable. The United States cannot continue down this path of spending ourselves into oblivion. We cannot keep spending like drunken sailors.
Our great conservative President Ronald Reagan made a legendary statement when facing a free spending Democratic Congress.
“You know people are saying that the Democratic Congress is spending money like drunken sailors,” he said. “That’s an insult to sailors; they don’t hold a candle to Congress.”
One of my wise readers wrote me this anecdote about the crisis. She said, “Democrats are determined to bankrupt the country. Just paying interest on the debt is going to wreck the economy and very soon. What they are doing would be analogous to my going out and buying a luxurious ocean liner, a castle in Spain, and a Lamborghini and charging it all to my grandchildren and great grandchildren.”
She is not the only one of my readers who are concerned with this crisis.
Our United States Federal deficit and debt is our nation’s No. 1 problem. Hopefully, one of the GOP presidential aspirants will make this his or her major political platform. They may be surprised at how many conservative Americans will follow them.
Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.
STEVE FLOWERS Columnist
Moore visits Ingram State Tech
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
It’s not often a sitting member of Congress spends close to two hours on a tour, much less behind the razor fence surrounding Staton and Draper Correctional facilities and Ingram State Technical College (ISTC). But Rep. Barry Moore did and sat in a chair in the college’s barbershop.
“Can you take a little off the top,” Moore said to instructor Connie Barnett. “My wife always cuts mine.”
Moore might have been joking about the haircut but the visit was serious. He wasn’t able to speak with Barnett’s students who were next door in math. But he did speak with ISTC ambassadors and staff to learn more about the school and its incarcerated students.
The school started in 1965 and is not new to Moore.
“I found out about J.F. Ingram when I was in the state legislature,” Moore said. “I love what they do. I talk about this place everywhere I go. The way they have a low recidivism rate and they train students in a way they come out and find jobs.”
One of the ambassadors Moore spoke with was Tyler Bynum. Bynum was a HVAC technician before he was incarcerated.
“This does give us an opportunity to have a positive future coming out of here,” Bynum said. “This will give
me the certifications I need.”
It’s a story ISTC President Annette Funderburk wants everyone to hear.
“Our mission is to put these individuals to work once they are released,” Funderburk said. “We don’t want them to return to us in khakis. We want them to return to us as successful taxpayers to Alabama.”
Alabama Department of Corrections Director of Education Stan Robinson retired from work in the federal penitentiary system five years ago.
“I don’t think this can be overstated,” Robinson said. “What I have seen at Ingram, as far as quality of education and the quality of edu-
cation rivals anything I have seen on the federal level.”
Ingram has programs in welding, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, masonry, carpentry and more. Its student population is 100% incarcerated. Tuesday’s visit was a first for ISTC and Funderburk.
“We have never had a sitting Congressman tour our facility,” Funderburk said. “This means more to us than you will ever know.”
While in Congress, Moore said he has had conversations with other members about prison issues and educating inmates but one thing is certain.
“I haven’t seen or heard of anything that
functions this well,” Moore said. “When you see this opportunity for people to come out and have a skill set, I haven’t heard of anything like this in the country.”
Moore said he likes giving ISTC attention, not only for the benefits of recidivism but for how the school helps make students productive citizens.
“They go back into communities, find good jobs and provide for their families,” Moore said. “I have always been a huge fan of the program. I brag about it all the time all across the country. It’s nice to see what we are doing in Alabama that is good and can share with the rest of the world.”
Commission honors state champions
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
The Elmore County Commission recognized three basketball teams and a wrestler for winning state championships recently. Some teams received cheers from high school seniors in the courtroom for Elmore County Government Day.
The commission honored the Prattville Christian girls team for winning the AHSAA Class 4A title and the boys and girls teams from Edgewood for sweeping the state championships in AISA 2A. Stanhope Elmore senior wrestler Conner Russo was also recognized for winning the Class 6A 170-pound championship.
IN OTHER ACTION THE ELMORE COUNTY COMMISSION:
• Approved a proposed plat of 12 lots for Allen Place Phase I
• Approved a cemetery application for New Hope Baptist Church on Lightwood Road.
• Approved minutes of the March 27 meeting.
ing Thursday.The
at the
• Approved memorandum warrants for the period of March 18 to March 31 in the amount of $2,184,249.42.
WHS Continued from A3
taking marketing classes at Wetumpka for years.
Milton was never really interested in theater until doing research to help with social media posts. She has taken a liking to the behind the scenes part of theater.
“It is probably way more than what you actually see,” Milton said.
“I never had interest in theater but now it’s kind of interesting because it is applying both of the things I have interests in and something they have interests in.”
Madison Corkran said the lab and its “realworld” experience can be a bit frightening.
• Approved a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Preventation Month.
• Approved a proclamation rec -
“It makes you nervous because you think it has to be perfect,” Corkran said.
Student Jamel Hamilton said the social media posts come easy for the students.
“It’s because we are so used to social media,” Hamilton said. “For this we are just bringing a little work into it is not that difficult.”
But the experience has opened Hamiton’s eyes to the world of theater.
“The outfits, I had to go in and watch them make them,” Hamilton said. “They go through and knit everything.I had never seen that before.”
There are more students too.
“The whole class is involved in marketing
ognizing Sexual Assault Awareness. The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday, April 24
Matilda,” Vittore said.
“Everyone is a part of making the social media posts we have been doing for them. We collaborated, created generally what we are doing for the character cards.”
A commercial is next.
Both Glass and Vittore said the collaboration is generating interest among students. Vittore said she is finding students for next year wanting to explore what can be done when they graduate from school.
“I have three people I have recruited into this class have never done anything with advertising or marketing,” Vittore said. “One wants to go into IT. One wants to be in the entertainment field. The other one is going,
‘Maybe I want to do this advertising thing.’ These are kids that previously never thought about marketing. We also now have kids in theater thinking about marketing.”
Glass is seeing the marketing students take an interest in theater and believes the collaboration is something the students will see the rest of their lives. In the end it benefits both the marketing and theater programs but more importantly creates better people.
“Bringing other people in is necessary,” Glass said. “In the end it’s what theater is all about. It’s about bringing people together. We have brought in the marketing kids and hopefully the community.”
CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE HERALD
Elmore County Commission Chair Bart Mercer presides over a commission meet-
commission honored recent state champions from Elmore County schools
meeting.
CLIFF WILLIAMS THE HERALD
Congressman Barry Moore, right, visited the Draper Instructional Service of Ingram State Technical College. Moore was greeted by President Annette Funderburk. Moore said he hasn’t heard of an institution like Ingram State in his time in Washington D.C.
Elmore seniors attend 20th annual government day
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
In April 2007 Elmore County
Commissioner Desirae Lewis-Jackson was sitting in the courtroom of the historic Elmore County Courthouse pondering life.
Lewis-Jackson was a student at Wetumpka High School taking part in the Elmore County Government Day — designed to help high school seniors understand what local government does.
“Sixteen years ago I sat in the same exact spot in the courthouse,”
Lewis-Jackson told students gathered in the courtroom. “I was a wide-eyed senior; graduation was next month. I got to see all that Elmore County offered.”
Now Lewis-Jackson serves on the Elmore County Commission.
She and other commissioners as well as Elmore County leaders encouraged students to go ahead and get involved.
“You can do what the five of us are doing here today,” Lewis-Jackson said. “I didn’t realize what all Elmore County offered, but you too can sit in the same seat — get involved in county government.”
Commissioner Dennis Hill is retired law enforcement and told the students he had a regret.
“I waited until I was 64 years old to get involved with government,” Hill said.
Hill was appointed as commissioner in November to finish the term of Troy Stubbs who was elected to the Alabama State of Representatives. Hill explained he was like so many others who viewed government and public officials from the outside, not realizing all the work that goes on.
“I could sit and complain about government all day but I never took an active interest in it until this
CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE HERALD
TOP: Area high school senior students were able to look over some the equipment used by the Elmore County Public Works Department at the historic Elmore County Courthouse for Elmore County Government Day. The annual event highlights various Elmore County agencies and the Elmore County Commission for the seniors.
ABOVE RIGHT: Area high school senior students got hands on equipment used by the Wetumpka Fire Department to enter wreck vehicles for Elmore County Government Day. The annual event highlights various Elmore County agencies and the Elmore County Commission for the seniors.
ABOVE LEFT: Area high school senior students got to experience a disaster scenario set up by the Elmore County EMA at the historic Elmore County Courthouse for Elmore County Government Day.
came up,” Hill said. “I looked at the nation and realized I needed to get involved.” Hill might be the freshman of the Elmore County Commission but
he now understands for the county, state and country to prosper, it will take the youth getting involved.
“I encourage everyone to get involved,” Hill said. “Nothing stops
lifetime. During my time as governor I have prioritized children to realize their full potential,” Ivey said before starting the day of fun. “People with disabilities have successfully performed at every level. It is imperative that we continue to promote the abilities of all.”
Ivey said the games highlight every child has potential.
“Contestants here today have so much to offer our state and I’m proud the Elmore County school system is making investing in them such a high priority,” Ivey said. “Resolve displayed by these boys and girls truly does inspire me. I’m so excited I get to see them compete.”
The day of fun hosted more than 200 students with as many or more volunteers to help make the games special.
you now from coming to a commission meeting, board of education meeting, city council meeting. You need to start educating yourself now about how government works.
Make up your mind now and get involved. You are the future. Without y’all there isn’t going to be a strong United States. I encourage you to get involved in government and make it work.”
Elmore County Commission Chairman Bart Mercer hopes the students understand it is no easy feat to make the government operate.
“It takes a large group of people and dedicated officials in Elmore County to make our county government function properly,” Mercer said. “We also have to make sure we have proper representation from Elmore County at a state level in the legislature.”
Mercer is proud of the relationship Elmore County officials have with state representatives and officials.
“I can tell you if you have been exposed to other government across the state and nation, they sometimes spend more time arguing than serving the citizens,” Mercer said. “We don’t have to deal with that in the county and are very proud of that.”
Students had the opportunity to visit elected officials and view demonstrations by the Wetumpka Fire Department, the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, the Elmore County Public Works Department and the Elmore County EMA. They also had a chance to register to vote if they were eligible.
“It is important for every citizen to know how their local government operates and what local government does for them,”Mercer said. “Along with learning more about local government, in the future I hope you remember and look back to today and ask what you can do to serve your fellow citizens by seeking opportunities throughout the county serving on various boards and committees.”
education personnel. It is a group effort.”
Morgan said the games have become special in Elmore County and is happy to see the Ability Games recognized by the governor.
“I think it highlights the importance of what this event means,” Morgan said. “We are thankful the governor took the time to be here today.”
“It is just an incredible opportunity for our special needs students to come out and have a fun-filled day of games with support from all of their peers,” Elmore County Board of Education president Michael Morgan said. “We have had anything from sendoffs at the local schools that was equivalent to athletes leaving for a state championship game. There are so many volunteers — students, community members and our sponsors we want to thank, board of
for their efforts.
Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis was happy to see all the smiles on the faces of the competing students and volunteers.
“I look forward to this event each year,” Willis said.
cats. On June 25, 2022, Alston was first seen on the property and told by officers with the Wetumpka Police Department to leave. About an hour later officers returned to find Alston had not left and was joined by
“It’s amazing to get to come out and be part of this with these young people.”
Morgan said the attention is great but it’s even better the students are getting recognized
Roberts. The two ladies were arrested. In a December trial, Wetumpka Municipal Court Judge Jeff Courtney found Alston and Roberts guilty of third-degree criminal trespass and sentenced them to two years of unsupervised probation and a 10-day suspended jail sentence. Following sentencing in December, Roberts took an opportunity to comment to the court.
“I’m not the first person in Wetumpka to feed cats,” Roberts said. “People were doing it long before me, probably before Wetumpka was here. I just got caught.”
Courtney said the charges were not
“It is a great day for education in Elmore County,” Morgan said. “It is a great day to be in Wetumpka for these games.”
for feeding cats.
“You weren’t convicted for feeding cats,” Courtney told Roberts. Roberts quickly responded.
“I know, because that’s not illegal,” Roberts said.
A GoFundMe campaign was established after the municipal court conviction for the purposes of raising money for legal expenses for appealing the case to circuit court. More than $87,000 was raised.
The statement on the GoFundMe campaign said unused funds from the campaign would be used for trap-neuter-return efforts in the area or donated to national animal organizations.
CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE HERALD Elmore County Schools hosted its third annual ability games at the Wetumpka Sports Complex Friday. The event featured students from all of the Elmore County Schools taking part in a field day highlighted by a visit from Gov. Kay Ivey, Aubie and Big Al.
Together, we can
the corner of Bridge and Bridge. It is a beautiful spring morning as I write this week’s column. I can’t remember the last time we actually had spring weather in springtime.
Lord’s Day gatherings here at First Presbyterian yesterday were dominated by a communal prayer request. Yes, our Lord’s Day gatherings are always rooted in prayer, but Sunday was a little different. People came to this particular house of God with heavy hearts and troubled souls.
News of another mass shooting, this time in our neighboring community of Dadeville, was at the top of people’s prayer list. Numerous members vocalized their deep concern for the entire Dadeville community as it begins processing Saturday night’s tragic
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
turn of events. Those concerns spawned numerous conversations on a range of topics. One area of consensus in those conversations emerged. Some folks were distraught while others were incensed. Some folks were both at the same time. Almost every conversation ended with “There must be something we can do!”
The good news is there is something we can do — all of us. It is nothing new in the earthly kingdom. It is nothing new in these United States, or our own state,
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, blankets,
News of another mass shooting, this time in our neighboring community of Dadeville, was at the top of people’s prayer list
county, city or even individual homes.
First, we can begin with sincere prayers for all people affected by senseless acts of violence. Every child of God should consistently lift up sisters and brothers processing the tragedies of the earthly kingdom in prayer. It is the first step in living as God intends.
Don’t get me wrong. I am one of many people who is fed up with people in positions of authority saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with (insert victims).”
This is not because thoughts and prayers are not warranted or welcomed. It is because they are not
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,
enough when it comes to righting the wrongs of the earthly kingdom.
The second response does not eclipse the first, but it is equally necessary. We as children of God living in the world community God created must live in community. That means more than praying for others. It means knowing, listening to and finding common ground with others.
This may seem nearly impossible in our current culture, but it is not. Sunday, for instance, people with widely varying views on how to address the growing number of incidents of gun violence shared
visit the church website at http://epiphanytallassee.org/
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
First Presbyterian Church, located at 514 Central Blvd. will host a Veteran’s Day Celebration on Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. for all veterans and first responders and their family members.
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
“We are OPEN and everyone is WELCOME! Come worship with us in
a common conviction. No one, regardless of personal philosophy or conviction, wants senseless acts of violence to continue.
This common conviction was shared by the most ardent supporters of the Second Amendment and those who find its present applications ludicrous. It was shared by Republicans, Democrats and Independents. It was shared by conservatives, moderates and liberals.
Our nation has a rich history of coming together around shared convictions and/or values. Throughout its history, citizens of these United States have rallied around common cause and faced adversity together. It can happen again.
Statistically, the number of people living in the earthly kingdom who truly do not value the lives of others is quite small. Doesn’t it make sense for the overwhelming majority of those who do to come together in the name of addressing adversity? Together, we can.
Rev. Jonathan Yarboro is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Wetumpka.
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.
Dalton MiDDleton SportS eDitor dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com
Wetumpka soccer programs win area titles
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
The Wetumpka boys and soccer teams both earned big wins over rival Stanhope Elmore on Friday night.
The Wetumpka boys team beat Stanhope, 7-2, while the girls team beat the Mustangs, 7-0. With the two wins, both Wetumpka soccer teams claimed the AHSAA Class 6A, Area 3 championship and will host Pike Road in the first round of the playoffs on April 27. Boys coach Stephen Horn claims this is the first area championship in
school history for his boy’s program.
“It’s hard to put into words, but I’ll say before the season started, we expected to win the area,” Horn said.
“We know how good of a team we are. We’ve had some ups and downs, but we expect to make a run in the playoffs.”
After seeing its first matchup in February go to penalty kicks, Wetumpka took control quickly and never looked back. The Indians scored three goals in the first 15 minutes and pushed its lead out to five goals before Stanhope Elmore found the back of
the net.
“To be honest, it was a close game for the first 15 or 20 minutes,” Horn said. “Once we got that second goal, Stanhope just laid down and we were able to execute a lot better.”
Austin Holley was the first Indian to score, and he added another goal in the second half. Brody Worrell, who drained the second goal of the game on a free kick, added two penalty kicks in the second half to complete his hat trick. Filipe Batistella added a goal and
THE ROAD TO OXFORD
County baseball teams begin playoff journeys
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
High school baseball teams across the county are gearing up for the start of the playoffs this week. All six schools in Elmore County have qualified for the playoffs in their respective class or organization, and all six will play this weekend on Friday, April 21 and Saturday, April 22 if needed.
Here’s a quick glance at each playoff matchup.
CHILTON COUNTY AT STANHOPE ELMORE
Game 1: Friday, 4:30 p.m.
Game 2: Friday, 7 p.m.
Game 3(if needed): Saturday, 12 p.m.
Stanhope Elmore, which is the No. 2-ranked Class 6A team by PBR this week, is the Area 3 champion for the second-consecutive season. The Mustangs are 23-5 and will host Chilton County (17-10) at Furlow Field. The Tigers of Chilton County are the Area 5 runner ups. The two teams have not faced each other this season, but Stanhope Elmore coach Kaleb Shuman knows the Tigers are talented.
Chilton County is headlined by catcher Cannon Miller, a Southern Union CC commit, and Aiden Bee, a pitcher and first baseman who is headed to Lawson State.
“Over the past few years, Chilton County has been a solid program with some good players,” Shuman said.
“They are always gritty and competitive. They play hard and I expect them to be that way this year as well. They will come ready to play and compete with us and we will
have to be ready to go from the first pitch.”
Stanhope enters the playoff matchup on quite the hot streak. The Mustangs have won 13 of their last 14 games and 17 of their last 19. They also have the experience of making a deep run last year.
The Mustangs reached the third round of the playoffs last season.
“I believe the experience from last year will help our guys a lot,” Shuman said.
“It’s always exciting playing in the playoffs and there can be a lot of nerves for young guys who haven’t been there before. Hopefully the playoff experience our lineup and pitching staff has gained the last two years will allow them to relax and play to their potential.”
WETUMPKA AT HELENA
Game 1: Friday, 4:30 p.m.
Game 2: Friday, 7 p.m.
Game 3 (if needed): Saturday, 1 p.m.
Wetumpka, which has been on the wrong end of the injury bug for most of this season, enters the Class 6A playoffs as the No. 2 seed out of Area 3. The Indians will make the trek up to Helena (11-13).
The two teams have faced each other once this season, with Wetumpka winning 9-6 on March 23. The Huskies, however, have found their stride since that loss and have won seven of their last nine games.
“They’re a very good team,” Wetumpka coach Michael Dismukes said.
“They have a deep lineup that competes at the plate with every pitcher. Their first five hitters are really good and it’s tough to pitch to them. They were tough outs every at-bat
the first time. They have two or three really good pitchers. We didn’t see their top two arms the first time, but we know those guys can pound the strike zone.”
Wetumpka looks to be without its top three starters on the mound this week.
South Alabama commit Jaxon Shineflew and Kurtis Schuyler, the Indians’ top two arms, have combined for only 26 innings this season.
The Indians will need some other guys, like Trent Harris, to step up and fill those roles if they look to advance deep in the playoffs.
Harris looked sharp in his last outing against Stanhope Elmore last week. Despite taking the loss, he pitched 5 ⅔ innings and allowed no earned runs and only five hits. Dismukes is looking for him to pitch well again.
“I hope I can get a repeat performance from him because if we can do that, I think we can come out on the winning side,” Dismukes said. “If he can pitch like he did last week and throw strikes, he’s going to give us a chance to win the game.”
BEAUREGARD AT ELMORE COUNTY
Game 1: Friday, 4:30 p.m.
Game 2: Friday, 7 p.m.
Game 3 (if needed): Saturday, 1 p.m.
Elmore County, which is hosting the first round of the playoffs for the first time since 2005, is entering the postseason on a hot streak. The Panthers are 20-8 this year and have won 11 of their last 13 games. After fighting through a tough early schedule and some key injuries, the
See BASEBALL, Page B2
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Wetumpka junior captain Brody Worrell set the tone in a big way last week.
In a 7-2 soccer win over rival Stanhope Elmore, Worrell scored a hat trick as the Indians clinched the AHSAA Class 6A, Area 3 championship. In the win, he scored his first goal and the team’s second goal on a free kick from the left side outside the box.
The shot was unblockable and wasn’t touched by another player before it found the back of the net. He followed that goal with two more in the second half, both off of penalty kicks. Worrell is the Elmore County Player of the Week.
Head coach Stephen Horn said he doesn’t usually score the majority of his goals off penalty kicks, but he knows Worrell will make it when given the opportunity.
“Brody knows how important he is to this team, and he would tell you that getting two penalty kicks is not the type of goals he likes to score,” Horn said.
“He likes to score on shots like the free kick he made. We have the utmost confidence in Brody when he steps up and takes a penalty kick.”
Worrell’s offensive showcase wasn’t just in last week’s rivalry win. Worrell
has been one of the team’s most important offensive players the entire season. In seventeen games this year, Worrell has scored 19 goals and added 11 assists, helping Wetumpka to a 14-3 record.
His offensive production has helped the Indians win the Area 3 championship after going undefeated in area play. The Indians will now host a playoff game against Pike Road on April 27.
While Horn says Worrell is one of the most athletically gifted players, he’s also the leader of the midfield and has technical proficiency that is second to none. That was on full display as he scored all three of his goals on set pieces.
“Besides being one of the most athletically gifted players, Brody brings us unquestionable leadership,” Horn said. “He is the most physical player on the team, wins the most headers in the midfield, and is the most vocal player. He is always telling his midfield what to watch for, where and when to move and how to play.”
DALTON MIDDLETON THE HERALD Wetumpka’s Austin Holley celebrates after scoring the first goal against Stanhope Elmore.
See SOCCER, Page B2
DALTON MIDDLETON | THE HERALD
Edgewood Academy’s Bradley Boone pitched six innings and earned the win in Game 1 against Lakeside last season in the first round.
Wetumpka’s Brody Worrell scores on a penalty kick against Stanhope Elmore.
Panthers look to be at full health this week. Austin Davis returned last week and picked up some big hits, and now Shea Darnell looks to be back in the lineup.
“We’re getting healthy for one thing,” ECHS coach Michael Byrd said. “We played a really hard schedule early and intentionally put them through some adversity. Now we come to the backside and we’ve learned each other’s personalities. Our legs are back under us now so we’re fresh and we’re healthy at the right time.”
Elmore County and Beauregard are familiar with each other. Originally scheduled for two regular season matchups, only one game was played due to rain.
Elmore County won that game, 8-5, on Feb. 20.
In that game, the Hornets scored five runs on a combined three pitchers for Elmore County, including Payton Hall. They also, however, struck out 12 times in the game.
Beauregard enters the matchup with a 9-14 overall record and was swept in three games by Valley last week.
at home is going to be a huge help.”
MOBILE CHRISTIAN AT HOLTVILLE
Game 1: Friday, 5 p.m.
Game 2: Friday, 7 p.m.
Game 3 (if needed): Saturday, 1 p.m.
Holtville, which finished as the AHSAA Class 5A runner-up a year ago, has one of the toughest paths to the finals and that begins this weekend in the first round. Mobile Christian has quickly made its way up the classifications and had success each time. They have won back-to-back Class 4A state titles before this season, and they’ve won five total state championships since 2015. The Leopards haven’t missed much of a beat this season as they enter the playoffs with a 15-11 overall record and runner-ups in Area 1.
“The playoff gauntlet will be much like the first half of our schedule,” Bulldog coach Scott Tubbs said. “It’s not going to be easy by any means. They’ve won a lot of state championships the last few years, but anything worth winning is going to be tough. We have to fight for it.”
Ramsay. That tough schedule has prepared them for the playoff run and the Bulldogs look to be hitting their stride at the right time as they’ve won seven of their last eight games.
“Anything can happen when you get to the playoffs,” Tubbs said. “Obviously I think we are good enough to make another run. We just have to get hot and do the little things right. If we can do that, it’ll be fine.”
While the Bulldogs look to be finding their footing, so does senior lefty Randy Davis. The southpaw has thrown back-to-back shutouts on the mound and has allowed only three earned runs in his last 18 innings.
LAKESIDE SCHOOL AT EDGEWOOD
ACADEMY
Game 1: Friday, 1 p.m.
Game 2: Friday, 3 p.m.
Game 3 (if needed): Saturday, 1 p.m.
Edgewood Academy is hosting Lakeside School in a first-round playoff game for the second-consecutive season. The Wildcats, which are 13-15 this season, are hoping to make a run for the finals.
have. “I don’t know much about them honestly,” Jones said. “I haven’t seen them play a single time this year. I know they have one pretty good arm. Honestly, if we can just play the way we’re capable of playing, we should be okay.”
Edgewood’s season has seen its fair share of ups-and-downs. The Wildcats had 11 of their 13 wins early in the season, but have slumped over the last month and a half.
Since March 7, Edgewood has lost nine of its last 11 games. During that span, Edgewood has lost three games to Autauga Academy but has split with Chambers.
The Wildcats faced off with Evangel Christian on Monday and Coosa Valley on Tuesday, and Jones is hoping his team can build some momentum going into the weekend series.
“Baseball is a lot about momentum,” Jones said. “Hopefully we can win the games early this week and ride that momentum into the playoffs. I think we have the team and the path to be able to do it, we just have to put it together.”
TALLASSEE AT VALLEY
Game 1: Friday, 4:30 p.m.
its way over to Valley to face Jackson Sanders in Game 1.
Sanders, an Auburn commit, is the No. 1-ranked player across the entire country in the Class of 2024. The left-handed pitcher has a 2.85 earned run average this year and sits around 90 miles per hour. He has struck out 27 batters in his last three games.
“Well they have the No. 1 pitcher around here in the Sanders kid,” Tallassee coach John Goodman said. “When you have him, you’re just about guaranteed one victory. Other than that, they have a great hitting ball team. They have several other pitchers to go with him. It’s going to be a tough series.”
Tallassee enters the playoffs with a 10-12 overall record, but the Tigers have been better than their record shows. In two games last week against Elmore county, Tallassee had a three-run lead in both games they lost. That’s been the case all season as Tallassee has lost six games after leading in the sixth or seventh innings. Goodman hopes his team can clean it up and be able to finish as playoffs begin.
“They’re very fundamentally sound,” Byrd said. “They’ll be a little different now since it’s so much later in the season, but we have played them and it takes a little edge off knowing them. We aren’t walking into the game knowing nothing about them. Having the game
““You take two innings away and we’re area champions,” Goodman said. “I wish I could put a finger on it. It seems to happen to us several times this year. It seems like every time we put together a great game, something happens late. So we have to get over that this weekend. Hopefully we can and make a series out of it.” BASEBALL
Holtville enters the playoffs with a 18-10 overall record, but that record is deceiving. The Bulldogs have played one of the toughest schedules in the state. Their schedule has featured multiple ranked teams across Alabama and Florida, including Stanhope Elmore, Opelika, James Clemens, Collierville, John Carroll and
Edgewood and Lakeside have not played this season, despite being scheduled for a match up earlier this year. The game was canceled and never rescheduled. Edgewood head coach Justin Jones said his team is mostly going into the game blind, but he’s been talking to coaches about what kind of matchup he is about to
Game 2: Friday, 6:30 p.m.
Game 3 (if needed): Saturday, 1 p.m.
Tallassee will have one of the toughest tasks across the entire state as the Tigers begin their playoff run. Competing in the playoffs for the first time since 2018, Tallassee makes
SOCCER
Angel Guerra scored once. For Stanhope Elmore, Graham Baker and Luis Hernandez each scored one goal.
GIRLS: WETUMPKA 7, STANHOPE ELMORE 0
In the early game, Wetumpka’s girls left no question as to who was the better team between the two rivals. The blowout win results in back-to-back area titles for the Lady Indians.
“We pressured them all game,” Wetumpka coach Jessica Holbert said. “I told them at the beginning of the game that Stanhope had gotten better since the first time we played them and that game was 4-1. That was too close. I told them that I didn’t want that out there today. They wanted to make sure they knew who the better team was tonight.”
The scoring started early and often for the Lady Indians. Wetumpka found the back of the net as early as the second minute of the game when Ainsley Harrison knocked in the first goal.
That was followed by a goal from Ally Tessier, assisted by Morgan Sims, before Sims scored her own shortly after. The scoring quieted down as Wetumpka led, 3-0, at halftime.
“Stanhope has gotten better, but we’ve gotten better throughout the season too,” Holbert said. “We were mentally prepared and ready to play tonight.”
Much like the first half, Harrison opened the scoring in the second half with her second goal from inside the box. Marlie Fuller added a goal shortly after, and Sims capped off the night with two consecutive goals to give herself a hat trick.
Sims finished with the most total points, scoring three goals and adding an assist to her night. She was moved to midfield after halftime but continued to control possession throughout the game while Stanhope had no answer for her speed and control.
“Morgan is one of those players where even if she isn’t on, she brings enough pressure to force the other team to attack her,” Holbert said. “That opens up the field for my other girls to have the opportunity to score too, which is good.”
Shamiyah Laney survives gunshot wound to jaw
By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN
Managing Editor
Shamiyah Laney was just having fun with her friends, dancing the night away.
The 17-year-old from Alexander City was attending the Sweet 16 birthday party of a friend in downtown Dadeville when disaster struck in the late hours of Saturday night. She left the party with a gunshot wound to the jaw.
“It was fun, dancing, just a regular sweet 16 birthday party you would not expect to get shot up (at),” Shamiyah said via Facebook messenger.
In mere seconds, everything went from fun to the unthinkable.
Amidst loud music, Shamiyah said someone yelled, “Gun!” and everyone started running to the front door of Mahogany Masterpiece, a oneroom dance studio on the 200 block of Broadnax Street in Dadeville.
“We was running because it stared (sic) shooting,” Shamiyah said. “That’s what folks do yell gun and run … I was just at the wrong place at the wrong time.”
Upon hearing gunshots, Shamiyah said she started running and tripped.
LIVES
Continued from A1
“As I tripped on the floor a bunch of people landed on me,” she said. “I ain’t even get to get out the door until the end. I didn’t know I was hit until I walked out the door tryna (sic) see what was going on. I was bleeding badly.”
According to Shamiyah, there is only a front entrance at Mahogany, so when the shooting started, everyone inside was running toward one door.
After exiting the building, Shamiyah made her way to the back of the building where her friend’s car was. She said she got into the vehicle with three other friends, two of whom had also been “hit twice, the other made it out completely safe” Shamiyah said.
From there, the group rushed in the friend’s vehicle to Lake Martin Community Hospital, where she was for more than two hours before being transferred to a hospital in Georgia for further treatment. On Sunday, Shamiyah was then transferred to the Grady Memorial Trauma Unit in Atlanta.
“Now I’m in a hospital in Atlanta with a fracture to one of my neck bones that connect (sic) to the spinal cord, a few missing teeth and the inside of my mouth fractured,” Shamiyah said. “These doctors in Atlanta
who were both seniors at Dadeville; Dadeville Class of 2018’s Corbin Holston; and Opelika High School’s Marsiah Collins, who graduated last year.
PHILSTAVIOUS “PHIL” DOWDELL
Dowdell was a three-sport athlete for the Tigers, who was committed to play Division I football for Jacksonville State. He was also a decorated track athlete, and was a two-time state champion. He was well on his way to competing for a third title.
His speed and athleticism will certainly never be forgotten when it comes to all-timers who wore a Dadeville jersey.
But outside of sports, Dowdell will be remembered for his wide smile, and upbeat personality. No player nor coach ever remembered him having a bad day.
“I never saw him have a bad day,” Dadeville football and basketball coach Jesse Foster said. “He always put other people before himself. He was always putting the team first, and that was also in life. Never saw him have a bad day.”
SHAUNKIVIA “KEKE” NICOLE SMITH:
Smith was another prominent athlete for the Tigers, who was set to be a marquee player for Chris Tolbert’s 2022 volleyball team.
An unfortunate injury took away most of her season, but she managed to come back by the end of the year to finish out her senior season.
She also was a manager for the basketball team, and much like Dowdell, will be remembered for the way she could turn a bad day into a happy one.
“Always smiling. Always upbeat,” Tolbert said.
“When you saw her — and she had a beautiful smile — it would just light up a room. You could be having a bad day, and she would be smiling, and that smile would just be infectious. She lit up every room. Looking at her smiling makes you feel that much better.”
She was headed to the University of Alabama upon graduation.
CORBIN HOLSTON:
Holston was too an athlete at his time at Dadeville, playing wide receiver and defensive back in his senior season in 2017.
Former Dadeville counselor Mona Howard Patterson remembered Holston as a once quiet kid, who broke out of his shell as the years went on.
He often frequented Patterson’s office, for not much more than a friend to talk to.
“He just had an overall good personality,” Patterson said. “He got along well with others. He was always well liked by others. He came from a really good family.”
Former Dadeville football coach Richard White echoed Patterson’s sentiment, and said Holston was a player he never had to worry about.
“Good, polite young man,” White said. “Worked hard in athletics, always trying to please his coaches. I never had an ounce of trouble from him when he was in school. Comes from a good family.”
MARSIAH COLLINS:
Collins was a graduate of Opelika High, and after taking a year off, had plans on attending LSU this coming fall.
He was a musician in his spare time, and was an athlete during his years at Opelika.
Opelika coach Erik Speakman said that outside of Collins being a steady contributor to the Bulldogs’ football team, he was a well rounded kid.
“Always a hard worker,” Speakman said. “Always showed up and did what he was supposed to do. He was your typical high school kid that loved playing high school football. He made good grades. You hate to see a life ended that short.”
are taking care of me. They have been (doing) everything they need to do, but emotionally I’m traumatized.” When the confusion ended
and Shamiyah released she had been shot, she didn’t worry first about her safety. The only concern was calling her loved ones — in case it would be her
last chance.
She first FaceTimed with her mom, granny then her aunt.
Shamiyah said she wanted to tell them, “I had been shot and if I ain’t tell them before I left with all my heart.”
“I am 17 and lucky to be alive,” Shamiyah said. “Thank God for another day.”
Her family and friends have been her biggest support system since the shooting. Shamiyah said she is physically hurting, she’s sleepy, and she feels in and out of it a lot. Her friends have visited her in the hospital, and she said through her trauma, every little nice thing counts right now.
“I just wanna thank everyone who has been by my Side this whole time from that one friend driving to the hospital and didn’t leave until she knew I was ok or the friends that took off my wig yesterday and gave me a bath,” Shamiyah said. “It just be (sic) the small things that count and to those who have lost a family member, stay strong and remember everything happens for a reason. Maybe that was our wake-up call.
“Stay strong my beautiful people and just remember the times y’all shared with them before they want to a better place.”
SHOOTING
Continued from A1
Officials have released very little information about the deceased, the other victims or the potential shooter or shooters. When asked at a press conference at 10:30 a.m. Sunday if there was a public safety concern, Burkett said the area was secured and there were no public safety concerns. However, as of 10 a.m. Tuesday, he has not provided any comment since on the shooter or public safety.
Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. has confirmed the deaths of Dadeville High School seniors Phil Dowdell and KeKe Smith, 2018 Dadeville graduate Corbin Holston and 2022 Opelika High School graduate Marsiah Collins.
According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, there were 32 other wounded in the shooting; injuries included anyone that had medical treatment. That could range from a small medical treatment all the way to a critical medical condition. Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. has also confirmed Cara Johns, a Pike Road student, is in a medically induced coma, fighting for her life.
Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. is working to identify all 36 victims of Saturday’s mass shooting. Lake Martin Community Hospital spokesperson Heidi Smith said the hospital had 15 teenage patients treated for gunshot wounds Saturday.
Smith said of those 15 patients, six were treated and discharged home. Nine victims were transferred to a higher level care at another hospital; of those nine, four were stable and five were in critical condition at the time of transfer. Smith said she does not have any information on those vic-
tims since their transfers.
According to Russell Medical marketing director Susan Foy, staff also received notification at approximately midnight Saturday that the hospital would need to provide care for several victims relating to the incident.
“At probably midnight, I was notified that we would be receiving patients into our hospital from an incident that occurred in Dadeville, and it would appear that we were going to have several patients coming. From what I understand, there were quite a few people involved,” she said.
Foy said she could not provide an exact number of victims at Russell Medical at this time but did confirm all victims have either been treated or discharged from RM or transferred to other hospitals for further treatment.
Dadeville Police Department chief Jonathan Floyd also spoke at the press conference and encouraged patience as the investigation into the shooting continues and requested the public keep his community in their prayers.
“The City of Dadeville is a
tight-knit community full of wonderful people. What we have dealt with is something no community should have to endure,” he said. When asked Monday afternoon, Floyd said he could not comment on the identity of any potential suspects.
Police from Dadeville, Tallapoosa County, Jacksons Gap, Alexander City, New Site, Auburn, Opelika, Lee County and more responded to the scene Saturday night and into Sunday morning. ALEA’s Fusion Center has partnered with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Mobile Office to provide a digital tip line for videos and photos related to the incident. Those files may be uploaded at https://tips.fbi.gov/digitalmedia/ 29fa2c127a79963.
If you have information for the 5th Circuit District Attorney’s Office concerning the incident or need to provide information to the individuals or families concerning victim services, please click https://5thcircuitda.org/dadeville For any information concerning this incident, please contact ALEA private tip line at 1-800 392-8011.
Shamiyah Laney
LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN THE HERALD
Jeremy Burkett, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) public affairs coordinator, held a press conference at 10:30 a.m. Sunday morning.
LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN THE HERALD Evidence markers litter the parking lot adjacent to Mahogany Masterpiece.
DADEVILLE STRONG
DALTON MIDDLETON | THE HERALD
The Dadeville community and surrounding areas continue to rally around being “Dadeville Strong” by hosting multiple community prayer vigils to honor victims of Saturday’s shooting.
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Dadeville holds a prayer vigil for shooting victims on Sunday, April 16.
Dadeville mayor Frank Goodman speaks at an afternoon prayer vigil for shooting victims on Sunday, April 16.
The First Baptist church holds a second prayer vigil for the community on Sunday, April 16.
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Public Notices by the real estate. This sale
Wetumpka Herald: 23-00594
PUBLIC NOTICE
MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE
SALE.
Public Notices
ers are on site and have been disassembled and moved fromed on the Bid and Construccheck or bid bond payable to in an amount
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Public Notices PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE.
Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Jesse L. Graves Jr. and Jackie Graves, husband and wife, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems Inc., acting solely as nominee for First Choice Loan Services, Inc., on November 26, 2012, said mortgage recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama,
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 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 iron pin at the intersection of the West line of the Northeast quarter of the Northwest quarter Alabama, and the South right of
seconds East, along said right
seconds East, along said right thence leaving said right of way, South 00 degrees 04 minutes
described property lies in the West quarter of the Northeast quarter of the Northwest quarter County, Alabama, and contains to ingress/egress easement. According to the survey of Ron
Rose Hill Road , Millbrook,
Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Brent P. Pope, husband and wife, Stephanie L. Pope, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., solely as nominee for Home Mortgage of America, Inc., on July 20, 2012, said mortgage Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in RLPY Book 2012 Page 36682; the undersigned Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., 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 May 25, 2023, 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: Lot No. 22, of the Broadmoor Estates Plat B Subdivision as shown by plat made by P.J. Jennings, Registered Land Surveyor, dated September 16, 1965, (Revision No. 1 dated April 6, 1966) and recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 5, at page 112.. Property street address for informational purposes: 4910 Peachtree St , Millbrook, AL 36054. 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 ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. 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 non-refundable deposit of Five 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. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., (“Transferee”) Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., 2501 20th Place South, Suite 300, Homewood, AL 35223 www.tblaw.com TB File Number: 23-40173
Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 12, 19 and 26, 2023 23-00694
PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
and statutory Labor and insurance in compliance with
may be obtained from the sharing access for a one time
deposit of per set
in good and reusable condition
is estimated to be the same To expedite distribution of bid documents, deposit check(s) should be faxed and mailed
must be submitted on proposal
bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed
show such evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by shall show such evidence by clearly displaying their current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which must also include their current after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for a period of A PRE-BID CONFERENCE will be held in the same location at 10:00 AM LOCAL TIME ON THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2023 the purpose of reviewing the Attendance at the Pre-Bid Conference is highly recommended for all General Contractor Bidders intending
comply with the requirements
The Contractor and the Owner will be required to apply for
The Contractor shall account for and requirements for General Contractor Bidders and separate Subcontractors and Manufacturers are indicated in the The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals andests of the Owner will thereby ELMORE COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION Mr. Richard Dennis, Superintendent GOODWYN MILLS CAWOOD, LLC
334-567-7353.
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THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. 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 non-refundable deposit of Five
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. 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
In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Pemberton, Inc., Contractor, has completed the Contract for Construction of Elmore County Child Development Center at Holtville, AL. for the State of Alabama and the County of Elmore, Owner(s), and settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify McKee and Associates, Inc. Pemberton, Inc 3075 Wetumpka Hwy Montgomery, AL 36110
Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 12, 19, 26 and May 3, 2023
COMPLETION
PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Sealed proposals will be received by the Elmore County Board of Education at their ofAT 2:00 PM CST ON MAY 11, 2023 which time and place they will for: REDLAND ROAD MIDDLE SCHOOL BLEACHER RELOCATION AND CONCRETE PAD FOR THE ELMORE COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION WETUMPKA, ALABAMA (Local Funds)
Bleachers are provided by
thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to appear, answer, demur or otherwise respond to the allegations contained in the Plaintiffs’ Complaint within thirty (30) days By the 12th day of June, 2023; or, in the event said Defendants fail to so appear and answer, a Default Judgment may be entered against them. Said lands which are more particular described in the Com-NESS my hand and seal, this 14th day of April, 2023.
/s/Michael Dozier Clerk of the Circuit Court of Elmore County, Alabama
Apr. 19, 26, May 3 and 10, 2023 CV-2023-900077 PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA LARRY DOZIER Plaintiff, v. Cheryl A. Hall, and if deceased, her heirs and assigns, and Fictitious Parties “A”, “B”, “C”, being any and/or all persons, or entities, which may hold or claim any right,title or interest in the herein describe real estate located in Elmore County, Alabama; and Begin at an iron pin marking the SW corner of Lot or parcel and being
Public Notices
pg North 201.31 feet and East 979.51 feet of a one inch open end pipe marking the SW corner of Section 6, Township 19N, Range 18E thence North 38 deg. 13’02” East along and with the Easterly margin of said road a distance of 120.69 feet to an open-end pipe; thence leaving said road South 82 deg. 06’43” East a distance of 222.69 feet; thence a chord bearing and distance of South 01 deg. 43’49” East 38.25 feet; thence South 84 deg. 58’45” West bounded by Bernard Sikes a distance of 297.54 feet to a point of beginning, containing 0.40 acres, more or less, in Elmore County, Alabama. Defendants. CASE NO. CV-2023-900079 NOTICE OF FILING OF COMPLAINT AND ORDER DIRECTING FILING OF APPEARANCE AND ANSWER OF DEFENDANTS
TO: Cheryl A. Hall, and if deceased, her heirs and assigns, and anyone else claiming an ownership interest in, is attempting to purchase, claims to hold a lien on, or claims to lease the subject property of this Action, YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 13th day of April, 2023, a Complaint Circuit Court of Elmore County, Alabama under Civil Action No. CV-2023-900079. All persons having an interest in the above described property, or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to appear, answer,, demur or otherwise respond to the allegations contained in the Plaintiff’s Complaint within thirty (30) days or, in the event said Defendants fail to so appear and answer, a Default Judgment may be entered against them. WITNESS my hand and seal this 13 day of April, 2023. /s/Michael Dozier Clerk of the Circuit Court of Elmore County, Alabama Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 19, 26, May 3 and 10, 2023 CV-2023-900079
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF WILLIAM HEPBURN BRASH, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-031 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of WILLIAM HEPBURN BRASH, deceased, having been granted to KATHERINE A. CARATZOLA on March 27, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
KATHERINE A. CARATZOLA PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM HEPBURN BRASH, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL, JR. LLC P O BOX 638
MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-9444
Jerry@GADanielLaw.com
Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 5, 12 and 19, 2023 EST/BRASH W. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JIMMY EARL GALLANDER, WHO IS ALSO KNOWN AS JIMMY LEE GALLANDER, DECEASED CASE NO: 2022-315 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RANDALL KYLE
HUDSON, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-082 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of Randall Kyle Hudson, deceased,, having been granted to VICKY HUDSON on March, 27, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
VICKY HUDSON ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF RANDALL KYLE HUDSON, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: NICOLAS A. GUITIERREZ ATTORNEY AT LAW 2131 MAGNOLIA AVENUE, SUITE 20 BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 35205 205-328-2200
Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 5, 12 and 19, 2023 EST/HUDSON, R.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CURTIS EDWARD MEEKS, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-084 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF THE ESTATE
Public Notices
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of LEMOYNE ROBINSON, deceased, having been granted to LAMAR ROBINSON on March 29, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred. LAMAR ROBINSON PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF LEMOYNE ROBINSON, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: RODERICK B. PERDUE ATTORNEY AT LAW 2033 HOLTVILLE ROAD WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-567-7373
Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 5, 12 and 19, 2023 EST/ROBINSON, L.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MALCOLM AUGUSTA SMITH, JR., DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-030 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Public Notices
EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF JACQUELINE O. SUMNERS, 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: Apr. 19, 26 and May 3, 2023
EST/SUMNERS, J.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EARL WINGARD, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-055 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of EARL WINGARD, deceased, having been granted to DANNY WINGARD on April 13, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
DANNY WINGARD PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF EARL WINGARD, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: D. JASON BRITT STONE, BRITT & WEBB, LLC ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS AT LAW 114 S MAIN ST PO BOX 967 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-517-6520
Letters of Administration with Will Annexed over the Estate of JIMMY EARL GALLANDER, who is also known as JIMMY LEE GALLANDER, deceased, having been granted to PAMELA S. LOFTON on the 11th day of April, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred. PAMELA S. LOFTON
ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF JIMMY EARL GALLANDER, who is also known as JIMMY LEE GALLANDER, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: D. JASON BRITT STONE, BRITT & WEBB, LLC
Letters of Administration over the Estate of CURTIS EDWARD MEEKS, deceased, have been granted to DONALD MEEKS on April 5, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
DONALD MEEKS
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of MALCOLM AUGUSTA SMITH, JR., deceased, having been granted to JESSIE SMITH McMILLION on March 29, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred. JESSIE SMITH McMILLION PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MALCOLM AUGUSTA SMITH, JR., DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: REGINA EDWARDS LAW OFFICES OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS. P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 5, 12 and 19, 2023 EST/SMITH, JR. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JACQUELINE O. SUMNERS, DECEASED CASE NO. 2023-058 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS AT LAW 114 S MAIN ST P O BOX 967 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-517-6520
Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 19, 26 and May 5, 2023 EST/GALLANDER, J.
ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF CURTIS EDWARD MEEKS, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: HANNAH CAMPBELL AND C. BURTON DUNN DUNN & ASSOCIATES P.O. BOX 13081 BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 35202 hannah@dunnprobate.com burton@dunnprobate.com 205-352-4455 Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 12, 19 and 26, 2023
EST/MEEKS, C.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LEMOYNE ROBINSON, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-090 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to SYLVIA COUNTS as Executrix on the 12th day of April, 2023, 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. SYLVIA COUNTS
Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 19, 26 and May 3, 2023 EST/WINGARD E. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PATSY JUANITA WINGARD, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-056 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of PATSY JUANITA WINGARD, deceased, having been granted to DANNY WINGARD on April, 13, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
DANNY WINGARD PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF PATSY JUANITA WINGARD, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: D. JASON BRITT STONE, BRITT & WEBB, LLC ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS AT LAW 114 S MAIN ST PO BOX 967 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-517-6520
Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 19, 26 and May 3, 2023 EST/WINGARD, P. PUBLIC NOTICE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations for Elmore County, Alabama and Incorporated Areas The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency has issued a preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), and where applicable, Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report, hazard determinations within Elmore County, Alabama and Incorporated Areas. These may include the addition or Special Flood Hazard Area boundaries or zone designaway. Technical information or comments are solicited on determinations shown on the preliminary FIRM and/or FIS report for Elmore County, Alabama and Incorporatedterminations are the basis for measures that your community is required to
Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 12 and 19, 2023 FIRM
Elmore County promotes Nathan Taylor to lead varsity boys
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
The Elmore County boys basketball team will have a new face leading its program next season.
Nathan Taylor, who has been coaching the middle school programs, was promoted to head coach of the varsity boys next season. He will replace Rodney Taylor, who has been leading the girls and boys programs since 2018.
The varsity girls job is still open.
“Nathan has been involved with our middle school program for six years,” ECHS athletic director Kyle Caldwell said of the hire. “He has coached these kids and is familiar with their strengths and weaknesses. We also don’t have many teaching openings so it was a best-case scenario to promote from within our own program. He will bring a new energy and attitude back to our program.”
Taylor, who played at and graduated from Elmore County, is excited to join the varsity program. He has coached all of the kids currently on the team, and he has found plenty of success at the middle school level.
Just last season, Eclectic’s middle school girls team finished 11-1 and swept Wetumpka, Millbrook, Tallassee and
Holtville in two-game series. The boys team was right there as well, finishing 7-5 on the year.
“I’m excited to get back together with some of the guys that I’ve had at the middle school,”
Taylor said. “The seniors that I’ll have are actually the first group that I had for two years at the middle school. I’m excited to get back to work with them.”
Taylor will be inheriting the exact same situation he did when he took over the middle school.
After his first year at the middle school, Payton Stephenson, Garrett Allen and the rest of the 2023 graduating class moved on to high school.
Now as he takes over the varsity team, the same group of kids is leaving. Both Stephenson and Allen were All-County players each of the last two seasons, and Stephenson was the 2021-2022 Elmore County Player of the Year.
Despite both no longer being on the team, Taylor is confident he can replicate the same success he did when those same guys left the middle school program years ago.
“I talked to some of the guys and we’ve been in this situation before,”
Taylor said. “When those guys left, everyone asked what we would do without those guys. It’s really about having something
to prove. Payton and Garrett are great basketball players and they will be missed, but we will have enough to compete. I’m excited to get to work with these guys.”
Taylor doesn’t believe there will be much of a dropoff next season. He considers himself as a relationship coach, and he said the kids don’t
care about what you know as a coach if you don’t care about them.
So even after the kids have left the middle school program, he has had those players come back to open gyms and worked with the current teams.
He always knew if he worked hard enough and kept improving himself,
the relationships he has built would pay off.
When the opportunity finally came, he was more than excited to take the job.
“In coaching, it’s relationship based and even though I haven’t coached them the last few years, they’ve always been around the program,” Taylor said.
“Anytime we had an open gym at the middle school, a lot of those guys came around. So even though I wasn’t their coach anymore, I was still coaching them. The kids are going to know that I care about them and will do anything for them, but I’m going to hold them to a standard.”
Elmore County’s Byrd reaches 100 career wins
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Elmore County baseball
coach Michael Byrd reached a career milestone last week.
Byrd, who has led the Panthers since 2018, earned his 100th career win as head coach at Elmore County. The win came in the Game 2 victory over rival Tallassee, a win that also clinched the area championship for the Panthers (17-8) for the first time since 2005.
“For me, the biggest thing is that we won the area championship with this win,” Byrd said. “It means a lot and it shows what we’ve done as a program, but it’s not about me. Ultimately, the kids win all these games.”
Despite being in coaching for over 25 years, Byrd has been a head coach only since he was promoted at Elmore County in the fall of 2017.
Byrd’s baseball journey began when he graduated from Robert E. Lee in Montgomery in 1991. He spent two years playing college baseball at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College before transferring to Warner Southern College. After graduating, Byrd immediately began his coaching career as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator.
He returned to LBWCC and coached from 1996-2000 before taking an assistant job at Auburn University in Montgomery from 2001-2003. After taking a small break to earn his master’s degree, he returned to baseball.
He coached at Brewbaker Tech, Robert E. Lee, Hoover Academy and Wetumpka
MIDDLETON | THE OBSERVER
Elmore County’s Michael Byrd earned his 100th win as a head coach this week. The win also clinched the area championship for the first time since 2005.
before taking an assistant role at Elmore County for a single season. His one-year stint as an assistant turned into his first head coaching job. Once he took over the Elmore County job, there was an instant turnaround in the baseball program in Eclectic. The season before Byrd was hired, the Panthers went 3-21 and missed the playoffs for the fifth consecutive year. His first year in 2018, the Panthers went 13-14. That was the only season since his hiring they’ve had a losing record. Outside of the COVID-shortened season in 2020, Elmore County has had 19 or more wins each season since then and currently sits at
17 this year. “If you look back historically and see the records, it’s a pretty big turnaround to now,” Byrd said. “We’re proud of the turnaround and the consistency has been the biggest thing. We won three games the year before I got the job and we’re averaging around 20 wins a year since.”
Elmore County has just a few more regular season games before the Panthers turn their sights toward the playoffs. The Panthers will host Beauregard in the first round; the doubleheader is set for 4:30 and 7 p.m. Friday. A Game 3, if needed, will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at ECHS.
SUBMITTED THE OBSERVER
New Elmore County varsity boys coach Nathan Taylor, left, with head football coach and athletic director Kyle Caldwell.