By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Holtville High School basketball coach arrested
By Cliff Williams Staff Writer
A
Not only did FEMA send a team of 10 representatives to assist at the relief center at the Elmore County Courthouse, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the State of Alabama also have representatives ready and willing to help. Those seeking assistance can also fill out an application online or on the app or by calling 1-800-621-3362.
Preferably, those looking for assistance can now visit the courthouse to
talk directly to someone directly at a disaster relief center (DRC).
Wilson
FEMA external affairs specialist Darrell Habisch said some still prefer sitting across the table from someone. “It is so difficult in these situations because you are emotionally upset,” Habisch said. “Many people don’t like doing it online or on the phone. They much prefer to come in and sit down one on one to talk about their situation.”
ard Dennis.
Residents who have already started the application process can also check for status updates at the DRC.
“We had a report,” Dennis said. “We had a preliminary
Habisch said having the center at the courthouse has its advantages.
investigation and handed it off to the appropriate authorities. He was also placed on administrative leave at that time.”
“If you have lost your documentation you can find it here,” Habisch said.
Documentation that can be found at the courthouse can relate to property ownership. Residents will need an ID, Social Security number, insurance information and photographs of damage.
Dennis said school officials follow the same procedure when administrators receive a report of allegations against school staff and employees.
The initial FEMA application is for Individual Assistance (IA).
“We can help with immediate
“Once we hand it over, we know very little about what is going on,” Dennis said. “We cooperate with authorities if necessary.”
with the Elmore County Sher iff’s Office have the alleged vic tim’s phone. Authorities collect ed Wilson’s phone as well. tion between the two,” Frank lin said. “Mr. Wilson is going to contend someone had the security code to his phone and he was not responsible. There is other information we can’t disclose now but I don’t think it’s beneficial to Mr. Wilson.”
Chamber holds luncheon welcoming members
ple 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
A Delicious
Donation
Members of the Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce attend the chamber’s “A Taste of Our Home Town” luncheon. CLIFF WILLIAMS/ THE HERALD
Food pantry hosts year’s biggest fundraiser
Elmore County EMA offers CPR training
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
“The more, the better” — it’s a phrase normally used with money, friends, vacations or happiness.
Police continue investigation, man no longer suspected
But in the case of those needing a quick response to a medical emergency such as a heart attack, more is not better — unless it’s about the availability of someone to correctly respond to a medical emergency. Once a quarter the Elmore County EMA and partner Haynes Ambulance offers CPR/AED training and the classes are always full.
By Jake Arthur Chief Videographer
Police are still investigating the fatal shooting in the Wetumpka Walmart parking lot on Jan. 20.
Police were dispatched to the parking lot around 10:45 p.m. for a “shots fired” call. Once there, they found Centell Winston, 42 of Tallassee, dead of a gunshot wound in the driver seat of his vehicle. According to Wetumpka police chief Greg Benton, this was not a random shooting.
From ‘atrocious’
to best in state
“This was not random, not a random act,” said Benton. “We believe the victim and the perpetrator knew each other.”
Wetumpka junior wins top theater award in state
This is the first homicide in Wetumpka in over three years. The last homicide in the city took place in 2018.
“It’s not a good way to start out the new year,” said Benton.
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Benton didn’t want to speculate on the
See SHOOTING, Page A3
Wetumpka High School junior Monica Velma was shy when she first began walking the halls of the school as a freshman.
But there was something about Velma that Wetumpka theater director Jeff Glass saw. Glass convinced Velma to audition for the school’s theater program and at first, Glass was questioning if Velma would be able to do anything after the audition.
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.
“It was absolutely atrocious,” Glass said of Velma’s audition. “She was so nervous she broke down in tears. Finally, I was like, ‘Can you sing anything?’ She sang, ‘Watermelon Sugar’ by Harry Styles. It wasn’t good but there was something about her.”
Glass was still questioning himself about allowing Velma into the theater program but
See PRINCIPAL, Page A3
See AWARD, Page A2
WILSON
CLIFF WILLIAMS THE HERALD
FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center on the second floor of the Elmore County Historical Courthouse.
CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE HERALD
The Elmore County Food Pantry hosted its annual Taste of Elmore County Monday night. It’s the pantry’s largest fundraiser of the year and features Elmore County restaurants serving samples of favorites.
Obituaries
JUDY LAZENBY COLLEY
COLLEY, Judy Lazenby, a resident of Wetumpka, Alabama passed away Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at the age of 82.
The family will receive friends, Sunday, January 29, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. with the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. at Gassett Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Larry Gore and Rev. Denny Rogers officiating. Burial will be at Pleasant Hill Cemetery with Gassett Funeral Home in Wetumpka directing.
Judy is preceded in death by her son Allen Reese Colley III. She is survived by her husband Allen R. Colley, Jr.; sons Aaron (Mary Catherine) Colley, Anthony Colley; daughter-in-law Fran Colley; sib-
Police Reports
WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT
JAN. 25
• A death investigation was conducted on West Oscelola Street. JAN. 24
• Harassment was reported on Micanopy Street. JAN. 23
• An assault was reported on Coosa River Parkway.
• Sexual misconduct was reported on U.S. Highway 231. JAN. 21
• Fraudulent use of a credit or debit card was reported on U.S. Highway 231.
• A natural death was reported on Hollowood Lane.
JAN. 20
lings Patsy Spivey, Betty Markos; grandchildren Caroline, Maddie, Lucas, Reese, and Tupper Colley. Online Guest Book available at www.gassettfuneralhome.net
BRENDA JOYCE LOGAN
Miss Brenda Joyce Logan was born on August 2, 1943 and passed on from this earth to another plain of existence on January 17, 2023. She i s preceded in death by her parents Archie D. (Ted) Logan and Mabel Lee Rooks, and her brother Michael Ted Logan. She is survived by her sister Becky Logan (Roger) Murchison, nephew Michael Jeremiah Logan and great niece Isabella Marley Logan. Brenda graduated in 1961 from We -
citizen on Friendship Road.
• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Jacob Court.
• A domestic complaint was reported on Wall Street.
JAN. 25
• A Black male was arrested during a traffic stop on Gilmer Avenue.
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Macedonia Road.
• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Jordan Avenue.
• A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.
• A suspicious person was reported on James Street.
• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Notasulga Road.
tumpka High School and attended Huntington College. She taught at the Maria Montessori school in West Palm Beach, Florida for many years then moved back to her beloved hometown of Wetumpka. Brenda was a historian plus devoted many years researching and documenting her family genealogy. She was a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, Daughters of the American Revolution, the Colonial Dames of America, and many other organizations. Brenda studied religion extensively and loved God, his creation, and his creatures. There are no arrangements. A memorial service may be announced in the future.
• An arrest was made on North Harper Street.
• Two Black males were arrested during a traffic stop on Central Boulevard.
• A suspicious person was reported on Riverside Avenue.
• Reckless driving was reported on Sims Avenue.
• A domestic disturbance was reported on Central Boulevard.
• A suspicious person was reported on Central Boulevard.
• Criminal mischief was reported on Third Avenue.
• A suspicious person was reported on Main Street.
• A suspicious person was reported on Notasulga Road.
• Animal control was requested on Carr Circle.
• Theft was reported on Central Boulevard.
citizen on Barnett Boulevard.
• A white male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.
• A welfare check was conducted on Friendship Road.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Harris Street.
• A white male was arrested during a domestic dispute on Rickey Lane.
• A domestic dispute was reported on North Johnson Street.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Freeman Avenue.
JAN. 20
• A person with a gun was reported on Freeman Avenue.
• A Black male was arrested during a domestic dispute on Hickory Street.
• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Robbery, assault and discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling was reported on U.S. Highway 231.
• Interference with public safety communication was reported on Rivercrest Drive. JAN. 19
• Discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle was reported on Richard Street. Criminal mischief was reported on Coosa River Parkway. JAN. 12
• Animals running at large was reported on Camelia Drive.
TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT
JAN. 27
• A prowler was reported on Redden Avenue.
• A prowler was reported on Redden Avenue.
JAN. 26
• Trespassing was reported on Jacob Court.
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Rickey Lane.
• Harassment was reported on Hanil Drive.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Willow Street.
• A welfare check was conducted on Gammils Store Road.
• Assistance was given to a
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Barnett Boulevard
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Barnett Boulevard.
JAN. 24
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.
• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A Black female was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.
• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was provided during a utility complaint on Poplar Street.
• Two white females were arrested on Barnett Boulevard.
• Reckless driving was reported on North Ashurst Avenue.
• A utility complaint was reported on Rifle Range Road.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
• Breaking and entering a vehicle was reported on Central Boulevard.
• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to medics on a medical call on Ransom Drive.
JAN. 23
• Theft was reported on Carr Circle.
even the rest of the audition panel agreed with Glass — Velma deserved a chance.
“She left the room and I looked at the rest of the panel,” Glass said “I said, ‘I don’t know what it is but that girl is going to be a rockstar.’ They looked at me and said, ‘We don’t know what it is either but we think you’re right.’”
Two and half years later Velma performed in the state Trumbauer competition at the Alabama Conference of Theaters where she was awarded Best Performance in a Lead Role.
When they called her name, Velma said she was shocked.
Although it was the first time a Wetumpka student has won the award, Velma shouldn’t have been all that surprise. She was named to the all-star cast last year as a sophomore and again this year before the big award.
“I get to go home with a medal,” Velma said. “To be named Best Performance — I was shocked.”
Even in this year’s district competition leading into the states, she stood out and won the same award.
• Animal control was requested on Cemetery Circle.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Little Road.
• A white male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.
• A private property motor vehicle accident was reported on Quail Crossing.
JAN. 22
• Property damage was reported on South Ashurst Avenue.
• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Theft was reported on Friendship Road.
• A domestic incident was reported on Burt Mill Road.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A domestic dispute was reported on West Main Street.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Third Avenue.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Third Avenue.
• An animal bite was reported on Barnett Boulevard.
• A noise complaint was reported on Gladys Street.
JAN. 21
• The roadway was reported blocked on East Patton Street.
• Assistance was given to a
• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to the Tallassee Fire Department during a call on Ina Street.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Gilmer Avenue.
• Animal control was requested on Riverside Avenue.
• Animal control was requested on Grimes Street.
JAN. 19
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Freeman Avenue.
• A noise complaint was reported on Lee Street.
• Assistance was given to another agency on Ashurst Bar Road.
• A noise complaint was reported on Second Avenue.
• A fight in progress was reported on Washington Street.
• A white female was arrested on U.S. Highway 231.
• Animal control was requested on South Ann Avenue.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Ashurst Avenue.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Riley Road.
• Animal control was requested on Second Avenue.
• A white male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.
“Whatever ‘It’ is, that young lady has got it,” Glass said a judge at the district competition noted on the score sheet.
Glass said what makes Velma’s award even more impressive is its against all the schools with theater programs in the state.
“It is from schools from all across Alabama — some with 3,000, 4,000 students — and for her to win the top prize at the festival is awesome,” Glass said.
This year’s accolades have been as Velma played the role of Star in ‘John Lennon and Me.’
“My most fun role was definitely Violet from ‘Willy Wonka’ — it’s the blueberry girl,” Velma said.
The next step for Velma is the Southeastern Theater Conference where she will audition for college programs and where she hopes to garner a scholarship.
“I want to pursue musical theater for the rest of my life,” Velma said. “Regular theater, musicals, whatever it is — I really hope I get to do that.”
Glass started the theater program at Wetumpka High School 19 years ago. Glass said he has several students making a good living in professional theater even though the school doesn’t yet have a full stage to work it.
“Our resources here are not the same as other schools such as Opelika or Bob Jones but we go toe-to-toe with them,” Glass said.
With 2 ½ years of theater experience Velma said she has learned a few things about herself.
“(Acting) brings me out of my comfort zone,” Velma said. “I used to be really closed off, a shy person. When I touch the stage, it all goes away. I really like that. I have gotten more confident in performing in front of people because I know what I’m doing. Now I get to share it with other people.”
But before Velma goes on to college and a possible theater career, she has her eyes on a repeat performance as Best Performance in a Lead Role next year.
“I’m going to try to do it again,” Velma said. “I hope I can.” AWARD Continued from A2
“That is a good thing and a bad thing,” Elmore County EMA’s Julie Lawerence said. “Good in that we will have that many more people out there trained and ready to assist should the need arise.”
Those medical needs can come anywhere. At Thursday’s class were school teachers, corrections officers and first responders either learning how to properly perform CPR or get recertified. The classes are limited in size, with about 15 people, to allow more hands-on training with Haynes trainer Patti Brown.
“She likes to keep it about that size,” Lawrence said. “It allows one-on-one instruction as she needs to while showing actual compressions on test models of adults and children.”
Students learned the ratio of compressions to breaths for CPR and where and how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator).
Although classes are scheduled for April 27, July 27, and Oct. 26, there is a priority list for who is selected. But this is a great opportunity for the public to become certified.
“We have a waiting list already for the next class,” Lawrence said. “We send out notices of the class to our partner agencies. We try
to get our first responders, schools, nursing homes, places like that that might have new staff that need certification or existing staff that needs recertification. If we don’t fill spaces up with our partner agencies then we open it up to the public for them to come in.”
At many, if not all, public events and at schools, AEDs are placed for use in case of a medical emergency.
“You are finding those out in the public more, especially at schools and public events,” Lawrence said. “While the instructions with the AEDs are pretty clear, having the training on how to place the electrical pads and under what situations can be a great help.”
needs,” Habisch said. “If you need a roof over your head, we can help with a hotel. We can help with food.”
“The vast majority of money for recovery comes from SBA,” Habisch said. “They are authorized to issue low interest long term loans under the FEMA declaration.”
SBA Public Affairs Specialist Leroy Frazier said individuals must start the process with FEMA before being referred to SBA. Then the SBA can offer qualified applicants low-interest long-term loans. For homeowners, up to $200,000 is available as low as 2.323 percent for rebuilding homes. Current home loans can be above 5 percent. Homeowners and renters can also apply for up to a $40,000 loan to help replace personal property. Similar loans at different rates are available for businesses and non-profit organizations.
“There is zero interest for the first 12 months,” Frazier said. “They don’t have to
make their first payment until 12 months after receiving the funds.”
Businesses and nonprofits can apply for economic injury even without any physical damage. But it must be connected to the Jan. 12 tornado. The economic injury has to be due to loss revenue from the disaster. Frazier the loans are available for uninsured and uncompensated losses. Even if someone doesn’t want the loan Frazier said tornado victims should still fill out the applications.
“We encourage them to apply for the low-interest loan but they don’t have to accept that,” Frazier said. “For further reconsideration by FEMA beyond IA, they are required to apply for the SBA loan.”
FEMA’s team at the Elmore County Courthouse has come in from Texas, West Virginia, North Carolina and Washington D.C. The DRC will be open for the next 60 days from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week. FEMA also has field teams to help those residents from Dallas, Autauga, Coosa and Tallapoosa counties who
ECHOCARDIOGRAM - $125
Ultrasound generates 3D moving images of the heart to assess the functionality of chambers & valves
CALL (256) 329-7826 TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!
Indicate Heart Month Screening when calling. Payment options are available during scheduling. Appointments must be scheduled during February.
A copy of your test results will be sent to one of Russell Medical's Cardiologists & your primary care physician.
CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE HERALD
Patti Brown answers a question about the placement of pads for an AED during a class at the Elmore County EMA.
CLIFF WILLIAMS THE HERALD
Class participants practice CPR during a class at the Elmore County EMA.
Kenneth Boone, Chairman
Tippy Hunter, General Manager
Lizi Arbogast Gwin, Managing Editor
Opinions
Page A4 • February 1, 2023
Mission
The
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
E-mail: editorelmore@thewetumpkaherald.com
Obituaries: 25 cents per word with a $15 charge for picture per paper (Herald, Observer, Tribune). Obituaries are only accepted via the funeral home in charge of arrangements. We do not accept obituaries from individuals.
Weddings, Engagements, Anniversaries, or Birth
Announcements: These significant family events or milestones are 25 cents per word and $15
Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Herald or The Tribune.
Follow The Wetumpka Herald at www.thewetumpkaherald.com or on Facebook and Twitter.
We
The
TheWetumpkaHerald.com
Is It I, Or Is It AI? Could You Tell Who Wrote This Column?
From colleges to the comic strip Doonesbury to just about any area focusing on composition, the subject of artificial intelligence and enhanced writing tools possibly replacing human input is causing nervousness. Could you tell which part of this column were written by me, and which parts are computer-generated? The answer is at the end of this essay.
The concerns in academic are very obvious. A.I. could help students cheat on papers by providing them with pre-written or pre-generated content for their assignments. This content can be generated through natural language processing techniques, such as text summarization or text generation, which can create essays, research papers, or other written work that is similar in style and content to the student’s own writing.
But others see the potential for artificial intelligence to be helpful when it comes to student assignments. AI can assist students in writing by providing feedback on grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary. It can also assist in organizing and outlining a piece of writing, as well as providing suggestions for improving the overall quality of the writing.
Just as the technology might be used by students, it could also be adopted by professors as well. A.I. could be used to detect plagiarism by comparing a student’s work to
JOHN TURES Columnist
existing content on the internet. However, it is important to note that cheating is unethical and can have serious consequences for students. The concerns about the new directions of artificial intelligence go beyond colleges and universities. AI has the potential to automate certain writing tasks, such as generating news articles or creating social media posts. However, it is unlikely to fully replace human writers as it lacks the creativity and emotional intelligence that humans possess. Additionally, AI-generated content may not have the same level of nuance and personal perspective that a human writer can provide. It is more likely that AI will augment the work of human writers, helping them to be more efficient and productive, rather than replacing them entirely. What could be done about AI? Should it be banned? Would that even be legal? This is not so different from our history, where new technologies challenged the current role that humans played in the economy. After all, the steamboat replaced the men who worked the keel-boats, paddling
their way across the river. But goods and passengers could be transported faster across longer distances. The humans had to adapt to changes, as they always have had to do.
As for academics who are fearful that students may use a computer to write their essays, this is not a new problem. In the past, a friend or parent could write the paper for the student, who would turn it in with their own name on it. In recent years, the student could go on the Internet and purchase a paper written by a site that generates such papers for a price. Constant vigilance is needed by teachers, whether AI tools exist or not. The solution should be to craft assignments and tasks in a way that would identify and even highlight or somehow value that individual contribution by humans, so that AI is more of a complement than a replacement of humanbased writing, and even thoughts. In case you are curious about which parts of this were AI-generated, they came from paragraphs 2, 3, 4 and 5, after the first sentence prompt.
John A. Tures is a professor of political science at LaGrange College in LaGrange, Georgia. His views are his own. He can be reached at jtures@lagrange.edu. His Twitter account is JohnTures2.
Shelby’s last hurrah will benefit Alabamians for generations
Richard Shelby’s last week as our United States senator was poetically amazing.
The nation watched as he gave his farewell address to the Senate His speech was followed by a tribute from his longtime friend Sen. Patrick Leahey. Shelby and Leahey from Vermont are best friends and co-chaired the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee together for their final six-year terms, which ended January 3, 2023. They walked out together after a lasting three decade partnership.
The national media made note of the fact Leahey, a Democrat, and Shelby, a Republican, were the last vestiges of bipartisanship in Congress. They worked together congruently to get things done for the nation — primarily for the states they represented. Shelby, who served 36 years as our senator, retired at 88 last month.
To say he went out with a bang would be a dramatic understatement. As he was making his farewell speech, he and Leahey were crafting their final federal budget. The budget was passed the next day, two days before Christmas. When the experts discerned the 4,000 plus page document, it revealed Shelby had again played Santa Claus to the people of Alabama. He not only brought most of the money from Washington to Alabama, practically speaking he brought the entire North Pole and Rudolph and all of the reindeer to the Heart of Dixie as he was walking out the door of the U.S. Senate.
The national media dubbed Shelby the “Greatest King” of earmarked procured money for their state in history. Indeed, the amount of federal dollars Shelby brought home to our state as Chairman of the Senate
Appropriations Committee is historical. He probably surpassed the previous “King of Pork” for their state, the late Robert Byrd of West Virginia. In his last hurrah, Shelby appropriated a mind boggling $660 million of extra earmarked dollars to our state. Folks, that is quite an amazingly, unfathomable, incomprehensible Christmas gift for our state. As I was exchanging Christmas greetings with a state senator who is a close friend, I commented about Shelby’s departing $660 million Christmas gift to the state. He quietly commented, “Flowers, that is over 25 percent of our entire state General Fund Budget.” However, if you dig deeper into the federal budget that Shelby passed, his $660 million is also met with upgrades of funds Shelby allocated in previous years to amount to $4 billion. That is more than the entire State of Alabama’s annual budget. Every part of Alabama was showered with Shelby’s gifts, which will make generational changes to our state. In Huntsville alone, Shelby has played a pivotal role in shaping the Tennessee Valley area into the science, space, and technology capital of the south, if not the nation. In his final hurrah, the Huntsville Redstone area received funds for Army research weaponry, a space launch system, nuclear thermal propulsion for the Marshall Space Flight Center, construction of a new FBI Headquarters, which Shelby moved from Washington to the Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville,
and several other new buildings at the Redstone Arsenal. Shelby earmarked a great deal of federal money for his home area of Tuscaloosa including millions for new buildings and education centers for the University of Alabama, funds for a new bridge, and millions for the Tuscaloosa airport. He took care of the Montgomery/Wiregrass area, which is military laden for years to come. This area received multi-millions in new money for Ft. Rucker for flight training and Air Surface Missiles, along with millions for the Hellfire missiles made in Troy. There is over a billion dollars going to UAB for biomedical research and new buildings. Shelby has been instrumental in transforming UAB into one of the most pronounced medical research institutions in the nation. He took care of Mobile for generations to come. There are millions of earmarked funds going to the Port City. In addition, Shelby completed his mission of building Alabama a new deeper and wider Port with a $200 million dollar appropriation for the Alabama State Port Authority.
In my 2015 book, Of Goats and Governors: Six Decades of Alabama Political Stories, I have a chapter entitled “Alabama’s Three Greatest Senators, John Sparkman, Lister Hill and Richard Shelby.” If I were writing that book today, Shelby would be alone as Alabama’s greatest United States Senator by far. See you next week.
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
Pet of the Week — Delilah
Delilah is a 1-year-old female bulldog mix, who is about 55 pounds. She came to us as a stray and sadly no one came looking for her. She is a chunky, super sweet dog, who loves everyone and is great with other dogs and cats. She has a laid back personality but also is playful and loves toys.
Our adoption fees are $100 for dogs & $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 completely 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 Delilah or any of our pets, our first step is our Adoption Application
Humane Society of Elmore County News
By REA CORD Executive Director
February is Responsible Pet Ownership.
Below are guidelines from the American Veterinary Medical Association (www.avma.org).
Owning a pet is a privilege and should result in a mutually beneficial relationship. The benefits of pet ownership come with responsibilities, which include:
• Lifelong care of the pet. This means committing to the relationship for your pet’s entire life.
• Selecting a pet that is suited to your home and lifestyle and avoiding impulsive decisions.
you can fill out online at https:// elmorehumane.org/adoptionapplication-online-form2.html. Once approved, we will coordinate with you to set up an appointment to meet and adopt. We are located at 255 Central Plank Rd., Wetumpka, AL, 36092, our phone number is 334-5673377 and our website is www. elmorehumane.org for more information.
• Keeping only the type and number of pets for which you can provide an appropriate and safeenvironment. This includes appropriate food, water, shelter, healthcare and companionship.
• Animals that spend extended periods of time outside require habitats that protect their health, safety, and welfare. Outdoor confinement of an animal should include provisions to minimize distress or discomfort to the animal, and assure access to appropriate food, water, and shelter from extreme weather conditions.
• Recognizing that owning a pet(s) requires an investment of time and money.
• Ensuring pets are properly identified (i.e., tags, microchips, or tattoos) and their registration information in associated databases is kept up to date.
• Adhering to local ordinances, including licensing and leash requirements.
• Helping to manage overpopulation by controlling your pets’ reproduction through managed breeding, containment, or spay/neuter. Establishing and maintaining a veterinarian-client-patient relationship.
• Providing preventive (e.g., vaccinations, parasite control) and therapeutic healthcare for the life of your pet(s) in consultation with, and as recommended by, your veterinarian.
• Socialization and appropriate training for your pet(s) to facilitate their well-being and the well-being of other animals and people.
• Preventing your pet(s) from negatively impacting other people, animals and the environment. This includes proper waste disposal, noise control, and not allowing pet(s) to stray or become feral.
• Providing exercise and mental stimulation appropriate to your pets’ age, breed, and health status.
• Including your pets in your planning for an emergency or disaster, including assembling an evacuation kit.
• Making arrangements for the care of your pet when or if you are unable to do so.
• Recognizing declines in your pets’ quality of life and making decisions in consultation with your veterinarian regarding appropriate end-of-life care (e.g., palliative care, hospice, euthanasia).
Rea Cord is the executive director of the Humane Society of Elmore County.
Jesus provides travelers’ assurance
Children
As one grows
it becomes more
ask, “In what areas does your
I have
that I always
JACKIE
be on television, or be a Marine because they had pretty uniforms. I suppose none of those interested me as much as being a wife, mom, and nurse.
In my retirement years, Biblical studies has been a fascinating and blessed learning experience.
WILBOURN Columnist
a coach and surpass the late great Pat Summit’s records, be a meteorologist so I could
I have always enjoyed driving — from bicycles and motorcycles, to cars and boats, and yes even planes. Have you ever driven in a large city like Atlanta, Chicago, or perhaps, Los Angeles? As the younger
BETHLEHEM EAST BAPTIST CHURCH
Bethlehem East Baptist Church will have all Sunday school classes beginning at 9:45 a.m. Sunday morning followed by regular service at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary. We will continue with Facebook Live Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and Worship Service at 11 a.m.
CARRVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH
Regular hours of service are Sundays- 9 a.m. Sunday School and 10 a.m. Morning Worship. Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. the church offers Children’s Gospel Project, Youth Bible Study and Adult Prayer Meeting. Regular office hours are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
generation says, I get “a high” from driving in the fast lane. Mind you, when driving there are two rules that must be followed: Radio off, no talking! Recently, while in Los Angeles, we rented a car and I had to prove to myself I could drive in this traffic. I can assure you it was a dangerous adventure with lane changes, toll booths, and careless drivers. All of this is going on at the same time I am trying to read street signs and know which way to go! It is frustrating to realize you are heading back in the direction you just left.
I know everyone has heard you must have insurance on
Church Briefs
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, and jackets. If you want to donate or help with the cause, call Joan Wood at 334312-4913.
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 informa-
your vehicle and oftentimes you must also have travelers’ insurance.
But how about Travelers’ Assurance? Let me assure you this cannot be purchased with a credit card but has to be purchased by the blood of Jesus. Be assured wherever you may journey in life God already knows where you are headed. In the words found in Job, “But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold” (Job 23:10).
Not only does God know the place where you are headed, He knows the way you take! Whether it is where you live,
tion, visit the church website at http:// epiphanytallassee.org/
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
First Presbyterian Church, located at 514 Central Blvd. will host a Veteran’s Day Celebration on Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. for all veterans and first responders and their family members.
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
“We are OPEN and everyone is WELCOME! Come worship with us in person Sunday mornings at 8:50 a.m. (contemporary) or 11 a.m. (traditional). Sunday School for all ages is offered Sunday mornings at 10 a.m., and a nursery is available for infants.
CHILDREN & YOUTH: meet
the type of job you will have, the person you may marry, He won’t lose sight of you! Many times, on the highway of life, it is easy to get lost and wonder what to do next. How will I make my rent payment, car payment, insurance payment, on and on …. don’t fear – Someone has His sights fixed on you! Now that, my friend, is “TRUE” Traveler’s Assurance. Thank you Jesus for never slumbering but for caring about every detail of my life.
Jackie Wilbourn, member of Bethel Baptist Church, is a chaplain with Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief Team.
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
Herald Fans’ Choice Player of the Week: Dillon Barnes
Staff Report TPI Staff
The votes are in, and this week’s Herald Fans’ Choice Player of the Week is Stanhope Elmore basketball player Dillon Barnes. Barnes earned 731 out of 1,500
total votes. He beat out Edgewood Academy’s Madison Martin (192 votes) and Wetumpka’s Juliana Eldridge (577 votes).
Last week, Barnes exploded on the court for 37-points in his team’s overtime loss to Wetumpka. His scoring total was good for
Stanhope Elmore football hires Kevin Smith as offensive coordinator
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
The Stanhope Elmore football team added a seasoned veteran to its staff last Wednesday.
The school announced Kevin Smith had been hired as the team’s new offensive coordinator. Smith has been coaching since 1995 and spent 25 of his 27 years at Benjamin Russell.
After leaving Benjamin Russell in 2020, he took a year off for his kids to graduate from high school. Following both of his kids’ graduations, he spent the fall of 2021 at Smiths Station and spent 2022 at Pell City.
“Hiring a coordinator who has been an established 6A head football coach is a tremendous benefit to our program,” Stanhope Elmore athletic director and head coach Hunter Adams said. “Coach Smith is another field general that can effectively implement and control a high volume of things for us. I’ve seen him coordinate offenses for multiple Hall of Fame head coaches, and do it masterfully fitting their concepts within his system, as well as adjusting to available personnel. He’s one of the smartest and hard-working football coaches I’ve ever known, is a man of tremendous character, and was my absolute first choice of any addition that we could have made. I’m thrilled to have him at Stanhope Elmore.”
Smith has spent time coaching every position on the football field.
After being hired at Benjamin Russell in 1995, he spent his first year as an intern then was promoted to coach wide receivers and defensive backs on the ninthgrade team in 1996.
In 1997, he was moved to the high school staff and coached inside linebackers and served until 2004. During that span, he helped lead the Wildcats to three Class 6A finals appearances and won the 2001 6A championship. In 2004, he was promoted to defensive coordinator and served in that role until 2008, when he was moved to offensive coordinator until 2017 before finally being promoted to head coach.
He served three seasons as head coach at BRHS and led the Wildcats to a 13-17 overall record and one playoff appearance.
Following his three-year stint, he coached defensive backs at Smiths Station then moved back to offensive coordinator while at Pell City.
All that experience is helpful, and Smith knows he can use that knowledge to his advantage in Millbrook.
“We hope we can bring a lot of points to the team,” Smith said. “I do have a lot of experience and I was a defensive coordinator or on the defensive side of the ball for half that time. It’s really easy for me to see the game from both the offense and defense. Most of the time, if you understand what someone is trying to do to you, you can stress them in different ways and that’s what we’re going to try to do. We’re going to put pressure on the defense before the ball is even snapped.”
Smith is taking over a Stanhope Elmore offense that will see a lot of new faces on the field next season. The majority of the Mustangs’ skill players will graduate in the spring, but Stanhope Elmore is returning quarterback Jacob Bryant.
Bryant has started two seasons as the Mustangs quarterback and has found success. This year, he played in seven games and passed for 1,621 yards and 12 touchdowns. He missed three games due to a hand
See SMITH, Page B2
the highest total in the game, outscoring the next closest hooper by 18 points. His final scoring total was over half of his team’s total scoring output and was a huge catalyst for helping the Mustangs try to claw out of an 18-point deficit.
Elmore County baseball looks to return to playoffs
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
After barely missing the playoffs last season, Elmore County baseball coach Michael Byrd is confident his team will rebound in a big way in 2023.
Elmore County, which missed the 2022 postseason by only one game, returns the majority of both its position players and its pitching staff for the 2023 season.
The Panthers also move to a new area this year, and Byrd is hoping his team can claim the team’s first area championship since 2005.
“We are trying to win the area,” Byrd said. “We’re in a new area and I think we have a good shot to win the first area championship since 2005. That’s the goal. You want to get in the playoffs and make a run. We made the schedule as hard as possible to try and create some adversity. We want to throw the guys in the fire and have them fight through it and develop from there.”
The Panthers lost its ace in Sean Darnell, the county’s Player of the Year in 2021. He went 7-2 on the mound last year, but the Panthers return a lot to the rubber.
The pitching staff will be led by Cooper Rogers, who is expected to be the team’s ace. Rogers has primarily served as a relief pitcher the last few seasons but will be starting this year. The lefty went 2-0 with a 2.86 ERA and had two saves in 29 innings.
Payton Hall will also pitch a lot of innings and is one of the most experienced pitchers. He suffered only one loss on the mound last season as he finished the year with a 4-1 record.
“We’ve got three guys who have pitched a lot of games and we have some younger guys who we have to get developed early,” Byrd said. “The last couple of years, Cooper has been out of the bullpen and thrived on that. But he’ll be a starter now and he’s a guy who can get us five or six innings every time.”
In the field, the Panthers return the majority of
their starting lineup.
Hall batted .351 for the team last season. He was one of five Panthers who finished over .300 on the team last year.
Montevallo commit Payton Stephenson batted .414 with 10 doubles, 26 RBIs and 15 stolen bases. He will make the move to shortstop this season after playing all over the infield last year. Brock Herring, who started in the outfield, batted .358 with 20 runs scored in 27 games. Clark Wood, another outfielder, finished with a .343 batting average. with a .495 on base percentage.
Stanhope Elmore falls in semifinals of 6A/7A bowling championship
Staff Report
Staff
TPI
The Stanhope Elmore Mustangs girls bowling team finished its season in the semifinal round of the Class 6A/7A state bowling championship, losing to eventual champion American Christian 4-3.
The Mustangs defeated Hewitt-Trussville, 4-0, in the first round, with Stanhope collecting 670 pins to Hewitt-Trussville’s 580. In the semis, Stanhope collected a final pin total of 1,017 coming just short of American Christian’s total of 1,076. To get to the championship, Stanhope’s Alyssa Ward captured the top overall score, bowling a 692. Ward only got better as the games rolled on, starting with a 212 in her first game. She then turned up the heat, bowling a 234 and finally a 246 to finish things out. As a team, the Mustangs took the No. 1 overall seed into Friday, scoring a 2,395. Stanhope had two other girls in the top 10 on Thursday, including Peyton Warner securing a fifth-place finish and Samantha Wilson placing seventh.
FILE | THE HERALD
Stanhope Elmore’s Dillon Barnes weaves through defenders from Wetumpka on Jan. 21, 2023.
FILE | THE HERALD
Kevin Smith, who has 27 years of coaching experience in Alabama, has been hired as the Stanhope Elmore offensive coordinator.
MARVIN GENTRY AHSAA Alyssa Ward takes the top overall individual placement on Jan. 26, 2023 before the state bowling championships.
Tallassee boys hitting stride to end regular season
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
The Tallassee boys basketball team is peaking at the right time.
Tallassee, which has already secured the No. 2 seed in the AHSAA Class 5A Area 7 tournament next week, has lost only two games in January. During that time, the Tigers are 7-2 and 2-1 in area play.
They’ve won six of their last seven games and currently sit with an 11-9 (2-2) record.
“I think our guys have been a little more consistent,” Tallassee coach Keiven Mixson said. “We had a few problems early with some suspensions and some minor things, and we haven’t really played much with all of our guys. This second half of the season, though, we’ve basically had most of our guys so we’ve been more consistent as a whole and executing our defense better.”
The Tigers, despite having most of their roster for the first time this season, still don’t have everyone. Senior James Bender, the team’s top athlete and a three-sport star, suffered a season-ending leg injury earlier this month.
He underwent surgery on Jan. 14 and will not return this year. Bender was one of the team’s top scorers this season and has been missed since his injury.
Bender is one of eight seniors on the team, and the other seven have used his injury as a rallying point this year.
“When he went down that was a huge loss for us, but it’s kind of crazy how you play up and down when we had him, but now we’ve lost him and
we’re playing pretty good,” Mixson said. “I think our team has rallied behind him and it made our team closer. That was really the turning point where we started playing better. It would be
better with him out there, but we’ve been very competitive.”
Two players who have stepped up the most in Bender’s absence are seniors Tim Washington and Kayden Slay.
Washington is one of the team’s best shooters and served as a catch-andshoot specialist early in the year. Since Bender went down, however, Mixson has asked more of Washington, such as stepping up on defense and taking over some roles when it comes to controlling possession of the ball.
For Slay, he is one of the most inexperienced players on the team, but he’s had one of the biggest impacts. Slay hadn’t played much basketball until he was in t10th grade, and he actually impressed Mixson during PE class at school.
After getting him on the team, he’s shown out and used his height advantage and jumping ability to help the team. In a win over Elmore County earlier this month, he scored 24 points and set the school’s single-game record with 21 rebounds.
“Those are two of the guys who have been the most consistent for us this season,” Mixson said. “Kayden has grown as much as any player I’ve ever seen, and I’ve been around the game for 30 years. When it comes to Tim, we’ve asked him to step up. He’s always had all the skills, but we’re asking more of him now and need him to affect the game in more ways than just shooting.”
In the Class 5A Area 7 tournament, Tallassee will be fighting for a sub-regional spot. Tigers are the No. 2 seed in the area and will face No. 3 Beauregard in the first round.
The winner advances to the playoffs and the area championship, while the loser’s season comes to an end. Tallassee is 2-0 against Beauregard this year.
PLAYOFFS
Continued from B1
They’ll both be back as starters in the outfield, along with Garrett Allen, who returns after playing half of last season. In the infield, Shea Darnell returns after a solid freshman season in 2022, where he was .323 at the plate with 28 RBIs, 29 runs scored and 13 stolen bases.
The team is currently trying to work out the catcher position as Jackson Mann is set to miss at least part of the season, possibly the entire year, with an arm injury.
Elmore County begins its season Thursday, Feb. 16 with a home matchup with Beauregard.
Continued from B1
injury.
The Mustangs offense found success in spurts this year. The team went 4-6 overall and missed playoffs for the second straight year. Stanhope’s offense scored over 30 points only twice this year, and they scored 44 and 46 in those two games.
The team surpassed 21 points only twice the rest of the season when it scored 21 and 27 points in two wins at the end of the year. It was held under 17 points six times. Smith doesn’t have a specific scheme or offense he wants to run as it is dependent on the personnel Smith has on the team.
“Ideally, we want to run the offense that is going to move the chains with the guys we have on our roster,” Smith said. “I haven’t had in-depth meetings with the offensive guys, but there are some talented kids here. It looks like we lost some good guys from last year, but having the quarterback returning is always good. No matter what kind of offensive scheme we run, it’ll go through the quarterback.” SMITH
DALTON MIDDLETON | THE HERALD
Tallassee’s James Bender suffered a season-ending leg injury earlier this month. The Tallassee boys have rallied around his injury late in the season.
Elmore County Community Calendar
FEB. 2-18
HOLLYWOOD, NEBRASKA: The Wetumpka Depot Players will be premiering HollYwood, Nebraska by Kenneth Jones Feb. 2-18. FEB. 3
GALLENTINES: The businesses of downtown Eclectic are hosting Gallentines starting at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. The businesses will have discounts, a raffle and refreshments. FEB. 4
GALLENTINES: Main Street Wetumpka is hosting Gallentines in downtown Wetumpka from noon until 5 p.m. Feb. 4. FEB. 16
COFFEE MEETING: The Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce is holding a Rise and Shine Coffee and Conversation at CB&S Bank from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Feb. 16. FEB. 18
MARDI GRAS: The Order of Cimarron is hosting the 2023 Wetumpka Mardi Gras and Festival. Vendors will be in Goldstar Park starting at 9 a.m. and the parade starts at 1 p.m. FEB. 23
CRATER TOUR: Auburn University professor of geology Dr. David T. King will give a lecture on the Wetumpka Crater at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23 at the Wetumpka Civic Center.
FEB. 25
CRATER TOUR: Guided tours of the Wetumpka Meteor Crater are being hosted by the Wetumpka Impact Crater Commission Saturday, Feb. 25 at 8:25 a.m., 9:55 a.m., 11:45 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children over 10. Payments can be sent to 408 S. Main Street Wetumpka and checks made out to the Wetumpka Crater Commission. The tour starts at Trinity Episcopal Church.
MARCH 11
SPRING FESTIVAL: The Tallassee Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual spring festival March 11 on the grounds of Tallassee City Hall.
MARCH 20-25
BEAUTIFUL TABLE SETTINGS: May Eason is bringing back the Beautiful Table Settings Bash March 20-25 at the Wetumpka Civic Center in two different sessions.
APRIL 15
COOSAPALOOZA: Main Street Wetumpka is hosting the 2023 CoosaPalooza Brewfest from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 15.
APRIL 22
DOWNTOWN ART SHOW: Don Sawyer is hosting a Downtown Artists Art Show in downtown Wetumpka Saturday, April 22.
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 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 334-492-0777 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.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
GRACE POINT: Celebrate Recovery meets at Grace Point Community Church at 78223 Tallassee Highway in Wetumpka each Tuesday at
Wetumpka grad writes book on Saddam Hussien’s capture
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Retired Col. Desmond V. Bailey served in the Army for more than three decades. But when writing a book, the Elmore County resident and Wetumpka High School graduate focused on the months surrounding the capture of then-Iraq president Saddam Hussein.
But in writing the book “Recon 701,” Bailey didn’t focus solely on his view of the capture of Hussein; he also included the lessons learned.
“It is not a memoir of Des Bailey,” Bailey said at a meeting of the Elmore County Historical Society. “I wanted the book to be real comments and experiences from the soldiers from when we were training up to when we first learned we were going to deploy, the good times and the hard times. The capture of Saddam and what happened afterwards, to when we redeployed home dealing with PTSD.”
Bailey said he realized the group that captured Hussein was special and had a lesson for future soldiers.
“I tried to replicate the success of this unit not just because we caught Saddam but because there were a lot of things this unit did very well throughout the tour,” Bailey said. “As I commanded other organizations throughout my career I was trying to create the same kind of camaraderie, the perfectionism that this troup had and I couldn’t do it.”
Bailey said he had been thinking of writing a book for more than a decade but cemented the idea two years ago at a reunion of soldiers involved in the capture of Hussein.
“I stepped out there and said I was going to write a book,” Bailey said. “I said I would like to interview them for it.”
The retired colonel said there were 75 soldiers in his reconnaissance troupe in Iraq at the time of the capture of Hussien and 24 were interviewed for the book.
“Most were in the troupe from the time we deployed to the time we got home,” Bailey said.
“From a private’s perspective up to mine. I could articulate what the generals were thinking at the time.”
Bailey’s troupe was part of a larger brigade combat group with about 3,500 soldiers. In general Bailey’s mission was to find the enemy.
“Then bring in tanks or at least guide them in or call in air strikes,” Bailey said.
It was early in the war before armored Humvees were deployed.
“We took the doors off, there was no armor,” Bailey said. “We would sit on sand bags thinking they would protect us from IEDs but after a while we removed those.”
Oftentimes Bailey said the troupe would dismount and walk, searching for the enemy or occupying high ground for up to 96 hours at a time.
“We would also support special operations forces,” Bailey said.
It was those special operations forces — Delta Force — who accompanied Bailey’s troupe on many occasions searching for Hussein. There were 14 times over eight months the group conducted raids for information on the location of Hussein. But one night was different. Bailey said military leaders were confident in information they had received on the Iraq president’s location, but not without doubt from the soldiers carrying out the search.
“After 14 times people start to become disheartened, not believing the information we received was right,” Bailey said. “Delta Force didn’t want to do the raid. They did it because they had been helping us for so long. They said OK we will ride with you and see what happens. It just happened to be the raid where we got Saddam. The moral of the story is don’t ever give up. You keep doing raids and maintaining pressure.”
Bailey said the successful raid on houses along the Tigris River in Ad Dawr was near where Hussein had crossed the river escaping Iran during the Iraq and Iran War. It was a swim Hussein celebrated almost yearly. Nearby was the taxi and motorcycle Hussein was reported to be riding.
“The people running off were captured,” Bailey said. “One was the cook and the other was the driver.”
The informant thought Hussein might have gone down a pathway to the river but pointed to a prayer mat, something Bailey and others hadn’t touched in previous raids trying to be sensitive to the religion of Iraqis. But this night it was removed and an opening to an underground room was revealed. Hussein was ultimately found there.
The camouflage went even further.
“In the small house was a picture of Jesus,” Bailey said. “A line was running from the house to a pole near the hole was used to hang sausage from but also used to power a fan in the underground room to bring in fresh air.”
Bailey’s book “Recon 701” is available at the Wetumpka Public Library, through Deeds Publishing and other book outlets.
6:15 p.m. All are welcome to the meetings which provide a safe and loving environment for individuals seeking to conquer their hurts, habits and hangups. For more information, visit www.Gracepoint.info or contact Gwin Greathouse at gwingreathouse@gmail.com.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
SANTUCK: Celebrate Recovery meets each Thursday at 6:15 p.m. at Santuck Baptist Church at 7250 Central Plank Rd. This is a Christ-centered, 12-step program for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, and hangups. Call 334-5672364 for more information or contact jyates@santuckbaptist. org.
GAMBLERS
ANONYMOUS: Gamblers Anonymous meets Saturdays at 6 p.m. at Cedarwood Community Church at 10286 U.S. Highway 231 in Wallsboro/Wetumpka. Call 334567-0476 for more information.
AA MEETING: Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held Mondays at 7 p.m. located at 105 Tuskeena St. in Wetumpka. RED HILL SCHOOL: The Red Hill School on Highway 229 in the Red Hill Community in Tallassee is open Fridays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for local live music performances. No admission is charged but donations are welcomed to maintain the building and pay for refreshments.
Police seeking theft suspect in Prattville
Staff Report TPI Staff
The Prattville Police Department is investigating a felony theft of property and seeks the public’s help in identifying the suspect.
Investigators released a photo of an unknown subject wanted for theft of property.
“The offense occurred Friday, Jan. 13 at a retail business located in the 2700 block of Legends Parkway in Prattville,” CrimeStoppers said in a release. “Investigators say the pictured suspect, described as a black male, entered the business, took assorted tools and left the business without paying. The suspect entered a
silver 2011 Chevrolet Malibu and left in an unknown direction.”
Central Alabama CrimeStoppers is offering a cash reward for information that leads to the identification of the pictured suspect.
Anyone with information regarding the identity of this suspect or his whereabouts is asked to call police or CrimeStoppers using its 24-hour tip line at 215-STOP (7867) or 1-833-AL1-STOP or download the P3-tips app. If anyone gives a tip, they are asked to make sure they receive a tip ID and password in order to dialog with investigators in case there is a follow-up question. A tip may lead to a cash reward.
Tallassee man killed in Redland Road accident
Staff Report
TPI Staff
A Friday night two-vehicle accident left Reymundo Teyes Brindis, 32, of Tallassee, dead.
According to a release from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), Brindis was fatally injured when the 1997 Toyota Tacoma he was driving at about 10:03 p.m. Jan. 27 struck a 2022 Chrysler 300 driven by Caleb Ian Nathannael Langford, 41, of Mont-
gomery.
“As a result of the crash, the Tacoma driven by Brindis left the roadway and overturned,” an ALEA release said.. “Brindis, who was not using a seat belt at the time, was ejected and pronounced deceased at the scene.”
The crash occurred on Redland Road, approximately 15 miles west of Tallassee. Nothing further is available as Troopers with the ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate.
CLIFF WILLIAMS THE HERALD
Army Ret. Col. Desmond Bailey speaks to the Elmore County Historical Society about his book Recon 701 and how he led an operation two capture Saddam Hussein in 2003 in Tikrit, Iraq.
CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES
State Classified
Public Notices
Public Notices
Public Notices
Public Notices
SERVICES SELLING a RV, Tractor or Golf Cart? ADVERTISE STATEWIDE or by region in over 100 Newspapers, reaching over 1 million readers each week! Run your ad in our Classified Network for just $210 per week! Make one call to this newspaper (participating Ala-SCAN newspaper) or call 1-800-264-7043 to find out how easy it is to advertise statewide! BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 833-449-1307.
BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! We edit, print and distribute your work internationally. We do the work… You reap the Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: 888-283-4780 LONG DISTANCE MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America's Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Speak to a Relocation Specialist, call 844-925-3534
EDUCATION ATTENTION ACTIVE Duty & Military Veterans! Begin a new career and earn your Degree at CTI! Online Computer & Medical training available for Veterans & Families! To learn more, call 866-475-1014 (M-F 8am-6pm ET).
HEALTH/BEAUTY
ATTENTION OXYGEN
THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit. Call 844-322-9935.
ATTENTION: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 + FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 866-505-0828. FOR SALE
DirecTV Satellite TV Service Starting at $59.99/month! Free Installation! 160+ channels available. Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 844-594-7108
NEED NEW Flooring? Call Empire Today to schedule a Free in-home estimate on Carpeting and Flooring. Call Today! 1-888-381-0916.
UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top quality - Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 844-809-9165. Ask about our specials! Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-683-2005
GENERAC Standby
Generators provide backup power during utility power outages, so your home and family stay safe and comfortable. Prepare now. Free 7-year extended warranty ($695 value!). Request a free quote today! Call for additional terms and conditions. 1-877-323-5516 AUTOMOTIVE SUPPORT THE BLIND! Donate a car to the American Council of the Blind. FAST FREE PICKUP. 24-hour response. Running or not. maximum tax deduction and no emission test required! Call 24/7: 844-601-1342. AUTO INSURANCE from $29 month Free 2-minute Quote! We Compare all Insurance providers offers for you! Lowest Rates! Call Now 866-450-0943
p ing, 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 themore County, Alabama, on Febhours 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 18, River according to the map thereof re-for informational purposes: 182
IS” BASIS, WITHOUT WAR-
abama 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 Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) 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 by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. Everett Financial Inc. d/b/a Su-wood, AL 35223 www.tblaw.
22-07023 PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY STATE OF ALABAMA MIDFIRST BANK, A FEDERALLY CHARTERED SAVINGS ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, v. WILLIAM F. HALL, ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS OF CAROLE D. GRAY AKA CAROLE A. GRAY, PATRICIA JEAN PHILLIPHEINER, REAGAN PIERCE MCGEE (LOWE), AND THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, Defendants.
CASE NO.: 29-CV-2022-900161.00
To: ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS OF CAROL D. GRAY AKA CAROLE A. GRAY AMENDED NOTICE OF PUBLICATION
By Order for Service by Publication, dated the 9 th day of November, 2022, you are hereby MIDFIRST BANK, A FEDERALLY CHARTERED SAVINGS ASSOCIATION (“MidFirst” or Reformation and Declaratoryat 120 Meadow Ridge Drive,-
Deed and Mortgage to include the Mortgage is a valid, enbeing entered against you, you
Plaintiff’s attorneys, Amanda100, Peachtree Corners, Geordays from the date of the last
This the DAY day of MONTH /s/CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA
29-CV-2022-900161.00 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 Cedrick O Long An Unmarried Man to PNC Mortgage, a division of PNC Bank, National Association dated February 16, 2018; said mortgage being recorded on February 23, 2018, in Book
y the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. The undersigned, PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, 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 16th day of February, 2023 the following property, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, towit: ALL THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF ELMORE, STATE OF ALABAMA, BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS FOLLOWS: A PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 25, TOWNSHIP 18 NORTH, RANGE 17 EAST, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA; BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: FOR THE POINT OF BEGINNING COMMENCE AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 25, THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 05’26” EAST AND ON THE NORTH BOUNDARY OF SAID SECTION 25, 685.40 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 20 DEGREES 25’ 04” WEST, 425.42 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES 34’ 04” WEST 512.88 FEET TO A POINT ON THE EAST MARGIN OF GIBSONTOWN ROAD; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREE 04’ 33” WEST AND ON SAID MARGIN, 335.81 FEET; THENCE ON A CHORD BEARING OF NORTH 24 DEGREES 47’ 48”WEST AND ON SAID MARGIN, A CHORD DISTANCE OF 44.28 FEET TO A POINT ON THE WEST BOUNDARY OF SAID SECTION 25; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREE 08’40” EAST AND ON THE WEST BOUNDARY OF SAID SECTION 25, 49.46 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. SAID PARCEL CONTAINING 5.63 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, ACCORDING TO SURVEY OF REG. LAND SURVEY, OTIS R. ALLEN, ALA. REG. NO. 12771, DATED AUGUST 2, 1994. DEED REFERENCE: ROLL 153 FRAME 734, PROBATE OFFICE, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA. LESS AND EXCEPT THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PARCEL: A PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 25, TOWNSHIP 18 NORTH, RANGE 17 EAST, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA; BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: FOR A POINT OF BEGINNING COMMENCE AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 25; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 05’26” EAST AND ON THE NORTH BOUNDARY OF SAID SECTION 25, 226.06 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREES 04’ 33” EAST, 201.77 FEET; THENCE NORTH 88 DEGREES 05’ 26’ WEST 210.29 FEET TO A POINT ON THE EAST MARGIN OF GIBSONTOWN ROAD; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREE 04’ WEST AND ON SAID MARGIN, 112.64 FEET; THENCE ON A CHORD BEARING OF NORTH 24 DEGREES 47’ 48” WEST AND ON SAID MARGIN, A CHORD DISTANCE OF 44.28 FEET TO A POINT ON THE WEST BOUNDARY OF SAID SECTION 25; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREE 08’40” EAST AND ON THE WEST BOUNDARY OF SAID SECTION 25, 49.46 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. SAID PARCEL CONTAINING 1.0 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, ACCORDING TO SURVEY OF REG. LAND SURVEYOR, OTIS R. ALLEN, ALA. REG. NO. 12771, DATED AUGUST 26, 1994. DEED REFERENCE: ROLL 153 FRAME 2702, PROBATE OFFICE, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA. ALSO LESS AND EXCEPT THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PARCEL: COMMENCING AT AN OLD IRON PIN AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 25, TOWNSHIP 18 NORTH, RANGE 17 EAST, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA; THENCE ALONG THE NORTH SECTION LINE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 05’ 26” EAST 226.10 FEET TO AN OLD IRON PIN AT THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING SOUTH 88 DEGREES 05’26” EAST ALONG SAID LINE 139.81 FEET TO A SET IRON PIN; THENCE SOUTH 17 DEGREES 22’ 53” WEST 193.30
FEET TO A SET IRON PIN SOUTH OF A 12 FT. GRAVEL DRIVE; THENCE NORTH 70 DEGREES 13’ 25” WEST, 83.88 FEET TO AN OLD IRON PIN; THENCE NORTH 01 DEGREE 05’ 17” WEST 160.78 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. SAID DESCRIBED TRACT CONTAINING 0.444 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, AND LYING IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 25, TOWNSHIP 18 NORTH, RANGE 17 EAST, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA. TOGETHER WITH A 15 FOOT INGRESS/EGRESS EASEMENT FOR ACCESS AS RECORDED IN DEED BOOK 2002 AT PAGE 34373 IN THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA, AND THE SOUTH LINE DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCE AT AN IRON PIN AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 25, TOWNSHIP 18 NORTH, RANGE 17 EAST, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEGREES 05’ 26” EAST ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SECTION 25, 226.06 FEET TO A SET IRON PIN; THENCE SOUTH 01 DEGREE 04’ 33” EAST 160.72 FEET TO A SET IRON PIN, SAID PIN BEING THE POINT OF BEGIN-
NING; THENCE NORTH 63 DEGREES 15’ 46” WEST 168.80 FEET; THENCE NORTH 87 DEGREES 37’ 48” WEST 60.74 FEET TO A POINT ON THE EAST RIGHT OF WAY OF UPPER GIBSON TOWN ROAD. DEED REFERENCE: RLPY 2007 PAGE 20085, PROBATE OFFICE, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA. Said property is commonly known as 1490 Upper Gibson Town Rd, Coosada, arise between 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 of 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 subject (1) to prohibited under the U.S. Bank-of the loan with the holder of the Mortgage. PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION as holder of said mortgage McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC Two North Twentieth 2 20th Street North, Suite 1000 Birmingham, AL 35203 (800) 275-7171 FT21@mccalla.com File No. 22-04010AL www.foreclosurehotline.net
Wetumpka Herald Jan. 18, 25 and Feb. 1, 2023 22-04010AL
PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Duncan & Thompson Construction Services, L.L.C. (Contractor) has completed the Contract for Construction of Dining and Kitchen Renovations to Stanhope-Elmore High School, DCM (BC) Project #2021136 at 4300 Main Street, Millbrook, AL 36054 for the State of Alabama and the Elmore County Board of Education, Wetumpka, AL, Owner(s) and have made said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify the Architect, Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, Inc. or the Contractor, Duncan & Thompson Construction Services, L.L.C., 520 Mineral Trace Suite D, Birmingham, Alabama 35244.
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 25, Feb. 1, 8 and 15, 2023
COMPLETION PUBLIC NOTICE
MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE. PUBLICATION DATES: October 19, 2022, October 26, 2022, November 2, 2022, November 30, 2022, February 1, 2023. NEWSPAPER: Wetumpka Herald. Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Kristen E Autry, A Single Woman, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for SouthPoint Bank, on February 22, 2019, said mortgage recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, in RLPY Book 2019 Page 8095; the undersigned Freedom Mortgage Corporation, 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 Court-
house at Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on November 10, 2022, 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 48 of Redland Ridge Subdivision Plat No. 1, as reof Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 26, at Page 40.. Property street address for informational purposes: 94 Watkins Glen Dr , Wetumpka, AL 36093. 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 ENREDEMPTION OF ALL
Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., 2501 20th Place South, Suite 300, Homewood, AL 35223 www.tblaw.com TB File Number: 22-06704
Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 1, 2023 22-06704 PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE
Dubose Construction Co., LLC hereby gives notice of completion of contract with the State of Alabama for construction of Project No. HSIP-2616(250) in Elmore County. This notice will appear for four consecutive weeks beginning on 1/11/2023 and ending on 2/1/2023. All Box 117 Mt. Melgs, AL 36057 during this peroid. Dubose Construction Co., LLC
Shelby County Reporter: Jan. 11, 18, 25 and Feb. 1, 2023 COMPLETION PUBLIC NOTICE
MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE
SALE. Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Melody J Sharpton and Jon Sharpton, husband and wife, originally in favor of Compass Bank, on August 13, 2012, said mortgage recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, successor by merger to BBVA USA, formerly known as Compass Bank, 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 March 16, 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
CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES
Public Notices
County, Alabama, to-wit: Lots 4 and 5, Block A of Tilltop Acres, as the map thereof appears of
for informational purposes: 983
WHERE IS” BASIS, WITHOUTSUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF-
abama 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 Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00)
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 by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation.tion, successor by merger to BBVA USA, formerly known aswood, AL 35223 www.tblaw. Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 1, 8 and 15, 2023 22-00299 PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FILING OF PETITION FOR ADOPTION IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA AT CASE NUMBERS: A2022-052 and A2022-053
TO: THE UNKNOWN FATHER OF J.M.H AND TO THE UNKNOWN FATHER OF J.L.A., WHOSE IDENTITIES AND WHOSE WHEREABOUTS ARE UNKNOWN, AND NOTICE TO ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTY Take notice that a Petition for
BLES and AMY BREEDLOVE NOBLES, as Petitioners, for to CLARISSA SHAWN A ALEX-
NOBLES and AMY BREEDLOVE NOBLES, as Petitioners, for the adoption of J.L.A., was born to CLARISSA SHAWNA ALEXANDER on August 9, You have the right to contest either or both of these adoptions. contest either or both of theseten response with the Probate -
of this notice. The Probate Court
consider such Petitions without JOHN THORNTON
PROBATE JUDGE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA
ROBERT M. ECHOLS, JR 4 OFFICE PARK CIRCLE, BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
A2022-052/A2022-053
PUBLIC NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE ASPHALT CONTRACTORS, INC. HEREBY GIVES NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF CONTRACT WITH ELMORE COUNTY HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT FOR ELMORE COUNTY VARIOUS ROADS PROJECT 2022-PW2-1 AND 2022-PW23. ALL CLAIMS SHOULD BE FILED AT P.O. BOX 241447, MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
36124 DURING THIS PERIOD. ASPHALT CONTRACTORS, INC.
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 11, 18, 25 and Feb. 1, 2023 COMPLETION
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE
SALE Default having being made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage dated September 30, 2020 executed by Gayle H. Toth, a single woman, in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as a nominee for Caliber Home Loans, Inc., said Mortgage being recorded October 8, 2020, in RLPY Book of the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama; having later been assigned to NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing by instrument recorded in RLPY Book 2020, the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. Said default continues and notice is hereby given that the undersigned, NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash at the main entrance to the County Courthouse, Elmore County, Alabama on 03/02/2023, during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 4, according to the Plat ofProbate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 14 Page 28. For informational purposes only, the property address is: 110 Sunset Dr., Deatsville, AL 36022. Any property address provided is not part of the legal description of the property sold herein and in the event of any discrepancy, the legal description referenced herein shall control. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS-IS, WHEREIS” BASIS, SUBJECT TO ANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESS 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 mortgage as well as the expenses of foreclosure, including a reasonable attorney’s fees and other purposes set out in said mortgage. NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Paul K. Lavelle, Esq. Attorney for Mortgagee Spina, & Lavelle, P.C. One Perimeter Park South-Suite 400N Birmingham, Alabama 35243 (205) 298-1800 30-FC-23-01001
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 25, Feb. 1 and 8, 2023 30-FC-23-01001 PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JEWELENE BAZZELL, DECEASED CASE NO. 2023-008 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to CLAUDE O’NEAL BAZZELL as Personal Representative on the 18th day of January, 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.
CLAUDE O’NEAL BAZZELL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JEWELENE BAZZELL, DECEASED.
Name and Address of Attorney: Regina B. Edwards, Esq. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, P.C. 109 E. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 25, Feb. 1 and 8, 2023 EST/BAZZELL J. PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE FOR NEW GYM FLOOR BID for HOLTVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL #23-012
The ad-
dress for the project is 287 Whatley Road Deatsville, Al. 36022.
Public Notices
The bids must be submitted on company letterhead and the company name, bid number, and proof of insurance are to be posted on the outside of the bid envelope. **This is required for the bid to be accepted and opened** A sepBond
Public Notices
Public Notices
Tuesday, February 14 at 1:00PM.
ner at 334-391-3029 or , Please see the RFP projectcated on the ECBOE website under the “BIDS” tab. www. elmoreco.com
BID #23-012
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WENDEL THOMAS CHANDLER, JR., DECEASED CASE NO: 2022-379
NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters of Administration over the Estate of WENDEL THOMAS CHANDLER, JR., deceased, having been granted to ELAINE CHANDLER on January 24th, 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.
ELAINE CHANDLER ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF WENDEL THOMAS CHANDLER, JR., DECEASED Attorney: ROBERT B. RENEAU LAW OFFICES OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 WEST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 335-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 1, 8 and 15, 2023 EST/CHANDLER, W. PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
REROOFING PROJECTS AT ELMORE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE ELMORE COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION WETUMPKA, ALABAMA
PROJECT NO: 22-342
The sealed proposal shall be received by Mr. Richard Dennis, Superintendent, at the Elmore 100 H.H. Robison Drive, Wetumpka, Alabama until 2:00 PM Central Time, Thursday, February 16, 2023, then opened and read aloud for the above referenced project.
A Pre-Bid Walk through shall occur at 10:00 AM Central Time on Wednesday, February 8, 2023 of the school.
All Bidders shall have general liability and workman’s compensation insurance. The project shall be bid excluding taxes. Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Architect or copies thereof. No bid may be withdrawn after scheduled closing for receipt of bids for a period of ninety (90) days. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owners judgment the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted.
payable to Elmore County Public Schools in an amount of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00 must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and statutory labor and material payment bonds will be required at the signing of the Contract. All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Architect.
y All bidders shall show such evidence by clearly displaying current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered. PDFs of the project can be reviewed by going to the McKee website @ www.mckeeassoc. com and selecting “Project Bid List”. Also, if you are not receiving NOTIFICATIONS from us, please register on our website, “Project Bid List” by selecting manage your bid may be viewed on-line and printed by General Contractors, SubContractors, and Suppliers. Documents published through this procedure are the only documents endorsed by the Architect. The Architect is maintain other websites that provide documents. Addendums will be provided to entities that have CONFIRMED bidding for this particular project. The Architect retains ownership and copyrights of the documents. If bidders require printed sets, please submit request to the Architect at mckeeplans@ & last name, company name, address, phone number and the project name and number. Print sets are to be returned in reusable condition within ten days after bid opening. All RFIs and RFAs regarding the bid documents shall be sent and addressed through emails found on the RFI and RFA forms in the project manual. NOTE: ONLY THE RFI AND RFA FORMS IN THE PROJECT MANUAL WILL BE ACCEPTED. The Architect will not accept inquiries via telephone or fax. Completion Time: See Scope of Work in Project Manual. Supervision: Contractor to ensure proper supervision for all work.
Owner:
Mr. Richard Dennis, Superintendent, Elmore County Public Schools, 100 H.H. Robison Drive, Wetumpka, Alabama 36092 |
Architect: McKee and Associates, Architects Inc., 631 South Hull Street, Montgomery, Alabama 36104 | Phone: (334) 834-9933
Wetumpka Herald: BIDS 22-342 PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GARY ROLAND CLEAVER, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-016 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of GARY ROLAND CLEAVER, deceased, having been granted to JULIE ANN STULTZ on January 26th, 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.
JULIE ANN STULTZ PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF GARY ROLAND CLEAVER, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: ED PARISH, JR. THE PARISH LAW FIRM P.O. BOX 52 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36101-0052 323 ADAMS AVE MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36104 334-263-0003
Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 1, 8 and 15, 2023 EST/CLEAVER, G.
PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT\ OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DOUGLAS SELDEN GIBBONS, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-005 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of DOUGLAS SELDEN GIBBONS, deceased, having been granted to D. JASON BRITT on January 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.
D. JASON BRITT ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF DOUGLAS SELDEN GIBBONS, DECEASED
Name and Address of Administrator: 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: Jan. 18, 25 and Feb. 1, 2023
EST/GIBBONS, D. PUBLIC NOTICE
STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE
NOTICE is hereby given that a bill substantially as follows will be introduced in the 2023 Regular Session of the Legislature of Alabama and application for its passage and enactment will
be made: A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT
Relating to Elmore County; to amend Section 45-26-101, Code of Alabama 1975; to provide for the appointment of the county superintendent of education; and to repeal Act 258 of the 1931 Regular Session (Local Acts 1031, p. 117). BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA:
Section 1. Section 45-26-101 of the Code of Alabama 1975, is amended to read as follows: Ҥ45-26-101
(a) Commencing with the of the Elmore County Superintendent of Education holding the act amending this section, the Elmore County Board of Education shall appoint the Superintendent of Education of Elmore County pursuant to the general law of the state. The county superintendent of education shall possess all the county superintendent of education by the general law, shall possess all the powers granted by the general law, and shall perform and discharge all the duties of a county superintendent of education prescribed by the general law. The county Superintendent of Education of Elmore County shall devote his or her entire time to the public school business of the county and shall receive as compensation a per annum salary in an amount set by the county board of education. The board shall have discretion to grant expenses from time to time during the term of the superintendent. The compensation shall be payable from the public school funds of the county and shall be the total compensation.
(b) The Elmore County Superintendent of Education serving on the effective date of the act amending this section shall continue to serve as an appointed superintendent of education without following the posting and selection procedures required under Section 16-9-11 by entering into a contract with the board. The contract may be executed at any time duringed superintendent of education, but not later than September 1, 2023.” Section 2. Act 258 of the 1931 Regular Session (Local Acts 1931, p. 117), is repealed. Section 3. This act shall become effective immediately following its passage and approval by the Governor, or its otherwise becoming law.
Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2023
DRAFT BILL
PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF VALDIS VICTOR IESALNIEKS, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-011 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of VALDIS VICTOR IESALNIEKS, deceased, having been granted to JEFFREY J. COURTNEY on January 18, 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.
JEFFREY J. COURTNEY ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF VALDIS VICTOR IESALNIEKS, DECEASED
Address of Administrator: JEFFREY J. COURTNEY COURTNEY & MANN, LLP PO BOX 100 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-567-2545
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 25, Feb. 1 and 8, 2023
EST/IESALNIEKS V. PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE NOTICE is hereby given that a bill substantially as follows will be introduced in the 2023 Regular Session of the Legislature of Alabama and application for its passage and enactment will be made: A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT Relating to Elmore County; to levy a lodging tax and room fee and provide for the collection of the tax and the distribution of the proceeds from the tax; act is intended to be retroactive and curative; to provide that the levying and collecting of the taxes authorized by this act be August 1, 2020; to provide that the collection of taxes pursuant the extent any amount of taxes authorized by this act was paid by a person prior to the effective date of this act, such amount shall be deemed to be legally
Public Notices gy levied and paid and shall be deemed to be a credit against the amount of taxes levied pursuant
on the effective date of this act in the corporate limits of the City of Prattville. Section 2.(a) There are exempted from the provisions of the tax levied by this act and from the computation of the amount of the tax levied or payable both of the following: (1) Charges for property sold or services furnished which are required to be included in the tax levied by the state sales tax act. (2) Charges for the rental of rooms, lodgings, or accommodations to a person for a period of 30 continuous days or more pursuant to the exemption provision of Alabama’s Transient Occupancy Tax, Section 4026-1 of the Code of Alabama 1975. A subsequent amendment or change to the Alabama Transient Occupancy Tax shall also have the effect of similarly changing the exemption provision of this subdivision.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, the tax shall not apply to the rental of living accommodations which are intended primarily for rental to persons as their principal or permanent place of residence. Section 3.(a) The tax levied by this act, except as otherwise provided, shall be due and payable to Elmore County on or before the 20th day of the month next succeeding the month in which the tax accrues. On or before the 20th day of each month, every person on whom the tax is levied by this act shall render to the county on a form prescribed by
(4) The administration and enforcement of the state lodging tax statutes, which are not inconsistent with this act when applied to the levied tax.
(b) The county shall have and exercise the same powers, duties, and obligations with respect to the district taxes levied as imposed on the Commissioner of the Department of Revenue and the department, respectively, by the state lodging tax statutes. All provisions of the state lodging tax statutes that are made applicable to this act, to the taxes levied, and to the administration of this act are incorporated herein by reference and made a part as if fully set forth.
Section 5. The county may contract with an agent for collection of the tax and the agent may deduct from the proceeds of the tax levied an amount equal to the contracted amount for the collections, provided the percent of the total amount of tax collected. Following that deduction, the agent shall pay the remainder of the tax proceeds to the county.
Section 6. (a) Except as otherwise provided in this act, the balance of the proceeds from the tax levied by this act shall be deposited into the Elmore County Lodging Fund. The net proceeds from the tax collected outside of the municipalities shall be used by the county for economic development purposes. Sixty-seven percent of the remaining funds in the Lodging Fund shall be used by the county for economic development purposes. Thirty-three percent of the remaining funds in the Lodging Fund shall be distributed to the municipalities on an equal basis where the lodging tax was collected to be used by the municipality for economic development purposes pursuant to an agreement with Elmore County. Except as provided in subsection (b), if Elmore County and any municipality fail to agree on the use of the funds by the municipality, that portion shall revert to the Lodging Fund for appropriation by the county for economic development purposes. All of the net proceeds from any room fees shall be deposited in the Elmore County Lodging Fund to be used by the county for economic development purposes. All funds in the lodging fund shall be used for economic development purposes as determined by the Elmore County Commission. (b) Notwithstanding subsection (a), the portion to be distributed to the City of Prattville of the 33 percent of the net proceeds described in subsection (a) shall be remitted to the City of Prattville by the Elmore County Commission for economic development purposes no later than March 31, 2022. Section 7. It is the intent of the Legislature that this act be construed as retroactive and curative, and the levying and collection of taxes pursuant to Act 2020-178 are hereby ratiany amount of taxes authorized by this act was paid by a person and collected by the county prior to the effective date of this act, such amount shall be deemed to be legally levied and paid and shall be deemed to be a credit against the amount of taxes levied pursuant to this act. Section 8. Sections 45-26246 through 45-26-246.04 and 45-26-246.06, and Section 4526-246.05, Code of Alabama 1975, as last amended by Act 2022-49, authorizing the levy of a lodging tax in Elmore County, are repealed. Section 9. This act shall become effective immediately following its passage and approval by the Governor, or its otherwise becoming law.
Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2023
DRAFT BILL PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BETTY G. LUCKIE, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-012 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Public Notices
WILLIAM OTIS LUCKIE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF BETTY G. LUCKIE, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: D. JASON BRITT STONE, BRITT & WEBB, LLC ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS AT LAW 114 S MAIN ST P O BOX 967 WETUMPKA. ALABAMA 36092 334-517-6520
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 25, Feb. 1 and 8, 2023
EST/LUCKIE, B. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CRAIG A. MACON, DECEASED CASE NO. 2022-350 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Ancillary Administration over the Estate of CRAIG A. MACON, deceased, having been granted to EDWARD WAYNE MACON, on the 29th day of December 2022 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.
EDWARD WAYNE MACON, ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF CRAIG A. MACON
Justin D. Edwards, Esq. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, P.C. 109 E. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 18, 25 and Feb. 1, 2023
EST/MACON, C.
PUBLIC NOTICE DIVORCE NOTICE STATE OF ALABAMA ELMORE COUNTY Justin A. Vickers vs. Crystal Sauls
Said defendant Crystal Sauls will take notice that she has been served with divorce pa-vorce due to abandonment. The plaintiff has no way of locating notice of trying to get defendant to respond to papers. This will be ran for 6 weeks, after that it will be sent to the court to grant the plaintiff divorce from the defendant.
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 4, 11, 18. 25, Feb. 1 and 8, 2023
NOTICE/SAULS PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM H. PEAVY, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-003
NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Public Notices
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of WILLIAM H. PEAVY, deceased, having been granted to MARGIE PEAVY on January 18, 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.
MARGIE PEAVY
PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF WIL-
LIAM H. PEAVY, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for
Personal Representative: JAMES T. BAILEY
ATTORNEY AT LAW 721 7TH STREET SOUTH CLANTON, AL 35045
205-755-1427
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 25, Feb. 1 and 8, 2023
EST/PEAVY, W.
PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JANICE L. PLESSNER, DECEASED CASE NO. 2023- 006 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to ROBERTA L. POPPELL as Personal Representative on the 18 day of January 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.
ROBERTA L. POPPELL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JANICE L. PLESSNER, DECEASED.
Name and Address of Attorney:
Regina B. Edwards, Esq. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, P.C. 109 E. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 25, Feb. 1 and 8, 2023
EST/PLESSNER J. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF HELEN B. STRINGER, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-009 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of HELEN B. STRINGER, deceased, having been granted to BRENDA K. SHAW on January 20, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
BRENDA K. SHAW PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF HELEN B. STRINGER, DE-
Public Notices
CEASED
Attorney of Record for Personal
Representative: ROBERT B. RENEAU LAW OFFICES OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS. P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA. ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 25, Feb. 1 and 8, 2023
EST/STRINGER, H. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE CASE NO: 2022-372 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOAN M. WHITTEN, DECEASED
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JOAN M. WHITTEN, deceased, having been granted to ROBERT WHITTEN on the 23rd day of January, 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.
ROBERT WHITTEN
PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JOAN M. WHITTEN, DECEASED
Address of Personal Representative: 4375 Springdale Road Millbrook, Alabama 36054
334-235-4517
Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 1, 8 and 15, 2023
EST/WHITTEN J. PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE CASE NO: 2022-218 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LONNIE WRIGHT, SR., DECEASED
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of LONNIE WRIGHT, SR., deceased, having been granted to KRISTI S. KNOX on the 11th day of January, 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.
Public Notices
KRISTI S. KNOX PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF LONNIE WRIGHT, SR., DECEASED
Attorney of Record for such Per-
sonal Representative: NANCY M. KIRBY NANCY KIRBY LAW OFFICE 1809 STATION DRIVE, SUITE C PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36066 334-365-2782 nancy@nancykirbylaw.com
Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 18, 25 and Feb. 1, 2023
EST/WRIGHT, L. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF W.N.R. Case No.: JU-2022-000166.01
PUBLICATION ORDER IN THIS CAUSE it is made to appear to the Court by the Af-
ORDERED that The Wetumpka Herald
DONE this 3rd day of January, 2023. /s/ PATRICK D PINKSTON JUVENILE JUDGE
JU-2022-000166.01
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF RESOLUTION VACATING A PORTION OF LAKE REGION DRIVE Pursuant to a written petitionPublic
Notices
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of BETTY G. LUCKIE, deceased, having been granted to WILLIAM OTIS LUCKIE on January 19, 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.
Family pet shot by hunters on family property
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Brianna Smith is heartbroken because the family dog Buddy was shot, but she’s even more thankful he will live.
Buddy was shot with a gun Sunday afternoon and in surgery the next day to close wounds after the bullet entered him twice. That wasn’t Buddy’s only injury and Smith is trying to come up with money to pay the vet.
“They have given him antibiotics for his shattered knee,” Smith said. “They are not sure what will come of the shattered knee. There was nothing they could do about the knee.”
Smith said Buddy will live to spend the rest of his days with her husband and children.
“They said he is good to go,” Smith said. “His oxygen levels are good. His heart rate is good. He is ready to come home.”
Smith is hopeful of picking up Buddy before the weekend. The only question mark is what will happen to the leg with the severely damaged knee.
“We are certain he is going to live,” Smith said. “He might end up being a three legged dog. He might end up with a leg he can use. He might have a leg he never uses and doesn’t cause pain and have to get it amputated.”
Buddy was shot Sunday afternoon and soon spotted on Smith’s 10 acres in Claud. Family heard the gunshot then the family spotted Buddy.
“They saw him running, squealing and yapping,” Smith said. “They
started following him and tracking the blood. They found Buddy in the shed out back. He had been shot.”
There were only children at the shed when Buddy was found, according to Smith, so when the kids noticed trespassers, they didn’t do anything.
“We still don’t know exactly who, but the kids did see two people on our property wearing orange hats after Buddy had been shot,” Smith said.
“They didn’t approach them or anything.”
Smith said Buddy was taken to the vet Sunday evening and the decision to go ahead with surgery was easy despite the expense.
“This happened and I felt really moved not to give up on him because he is such a good dog,” Smith said.
It was a decision a year in the making. Buddy was a stray wandering
Smith’s property.
“He just kept showing up at our house,” Smith said. “He would run up to us every time we pulled up in our yard. I kind of felt bad for him. We started feeding him. My kids started calling him names. He has been called like six different names and now we are stuck on two. Some of us call him Buddy and some of us call him Big Boy. Buddy is the one we are leaning towards.”
Almost immediately, Smith said, everyone noticed Buddy was special.
“We noticed right away he wouldn’t eat human food,” Smith said. “He would look at it, lean his head sideways and wag his tail like he wanted some. We would sit on the ground to eat sometimes and he wouldn’t touch it unless we told him he could. You tell him no and he would just sit.”
A few months ago Buddy made the move into the house with Smith, her husband and children.
“He has moved off the floor and into the bed with the kids,” Smith said.
“I’m like wow, never thought I would let that size of dog in the house, much less in bed.”
Buddy pleaded his case with Smith Sunday as she was making the decision for surgery.
“He was wagging his tail while on a stretcher,” Smith said. “He is such a good dog. He grew on my heart. I felt moved not to give up on him especially since no organs were hit and he had a living chance.”
The family has set up a Gofundme at https://bit.ly/3XXXAn4 to help with the surgery expenses.
SUBMITTED THE OBSERVER
Brianna Smith’s dog Buddy was shot earlier this week. Buddy has undergone surgery and will survive.