Wetumpka Herald Jan. 17 2024

SPORTS: Wetumpka falls in first round of duals tourney

Elmore County deputies take gunfire in Montgomery

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

By Cliff Williams Staff Writer

It all started with an attempted traffic stop for an expired tag near state prisons on Highway 143 in Elmore County and ended with gunshots off the Northern Boulevard in Montgomery. A vehicle fails to stop in the early morning hours of Aug. 21, 2022. Elmore County

deputy sheriff’s start a chase that ends in northern Montgomery and law enforcement taking fire. An arrest comes 14 months later. Parts of the story were described in a preliminary hearing for Antonia Crumpton, 34, of Montgomery who is

Dennis.

“We had a report,” Dennis said. “We had a preliminary

facing trafficking methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance, first-degree possession of marijuana and attempting to elude charges.

investigation and handed it off to the appropriate authorities. He was also placed on administrative leave at that time.”

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

The chase ended at a church parking lot with deputies engaging in a foot chase with Crumpton and a passenger from the car. The foot chase soon ended as the deputies heard gunfire.

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

Franklin said investigators with the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office have the alleged vic

“We had not yet been assisted by the Montgomery Police Department or the Montgomery Sheriff’s Office,” Elmore County deputy sheriff Tyler Smith testified. “The only people out were three Elmore County deputies not in our jurisdiction. We were actively getting shot at. We made the decision to retreat back to the car.”

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

The deputies believe the gunshots were coming from nearby residences. A brief search revealed marijuana residue and Crumpton’s drivers license in the console of the car. The deputies impounded the car to the Elmore County Sheriff’s Department. At the sheriff’s department a backpack was found in the trunk. Inside, investigators

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

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

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

Chamber holds luncheon welcoming members

THE DREAM

business in Wetumpka.

“We haven’t been able to do this for the last couple years,” chairperson Clay McConnell said. “Your attendance is an indication people want to get back together and have these opportunities to see each

IS REMEMBERED IN WETUMPKA

See CHAMBER, Page A3

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The Elmore County Civic Improvement League celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King Day with a dinner Sunday.

Award winner

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Members of the Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce attend the chamber’s “A Taste of Our Home Town” luncheon.

CLIFF WILLIAMS/ THE HERALD

Police continue investigation, man no longer suspected

ed me at the White House for two years. They had never had a Black reporter at the White House. It was a wonderful experience.”

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.

Staff Report

The Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals (AASSP) named Holtville High School principal Kyle Futral the 2022 Alabama High School Principal of the Year.

The organization recognized those who have helped pave the way since the Civil Rights movement such as the 1979 and 1980 Wetumpka High School basketball teams which won state championships. Attendees heard from Elmore County native and 1981 Mack Paschal who became the first Black reporter for the Daily Report for Executives in Washington D.C. Paschal worked in the White House reporting on the issues but credited those who helped raise him in Eclectic, Tallassee and Wetumpka.

“They swooped me up and started taking me to different places,” Paschal said. “That is how I was able to get the base knowledge. The base was made here in Elmore County.” He encouraged others to do the same, showing young people how to do things and how to approach challenges.

“It will come back to you 10-fold,” Paschal said. “I promise it will.”

Paschal went to D.C. almost immediately after graduating from Wetumpka. He attended Howard University and Shiloh Baptist Church where he is still a member today. Paschal said an editor approached him in the office one day about a different position.

Paschal took the assignment and found camaraderie among the journalists assigned to the White House. Paschal said a lot of his accomplishments were the result of the knowledge gained in Elmore County classrooms. Many from the Class of 1981 were at the dinner to support Paschal. He said it was not an uncommon move for his classmates.

“This was not random, not a random act,” said Benton. “We believe the victim and the perpetrator knew each other.”

This is the first homicide in Wetumpka in over three years. The last homicide in the city took place in 2018.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

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

Benton didn’t want to speculate on the

See SHOOTING, Page A3

Holtville’s Futral Alabama principal of the year

The High School Principal of the Year award was presented to Futral on Friday, Jan. 28 during a schoolwide assembly at Holtville High School. Elmore County Superintendent Richard Dennis was in attendance for the presentation.

“He wanted to move the White House reporter to the Department of Justice,” Paschal said. “He said he need -

CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI

“We have always been so supportive of one another,” Paschal said.

It is a message Wetumpka First Presbyterian pastor Jonathan Yarboro shared with the crowd at the Wetumpka Civic Center.

See DREAM, Page A7

Wetumpka First Presbyterian Pastor Jonathon Yarboro speaks Sunday at the Elmore County Civic Improvement League program.Yarboro challenged everyone to be more neighborly.

“Kyle Futral is an exceptional principal and is very proactive and innovative in his thinking and approaches to managing his school,” Dennis said, As principal of Holtville High School, Futral has transformed the school culture from that of a school struggling with low morale, achievement and attendance to a school that strives for excellence. By collaborating with staff, many of the school’s issues were identified and addressed. Futral’s leadership style of listening, encouraging, supporting, organizing and challenging the staff and students, caused the school culture to

shift in a positive direction. The school experienced a 62 percent decrease in discipline referrals, 50 percent decrease in chronic absenteeism, 7 percent increase in the graduation rate, 33 percent increase in CCR rate and a 20 per cent increase in ACT proficiency in the last five years.

See PRINCIPAL, Page A3

WILSON

CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI

Idell Gill, left, hugs Desirae Lewis-Jackson, after giving Lewis-Jackson the Percy Gill Visionary Award at Sunday’s Living the Dream Program.

Obituaries

MARGARET PEDDY SKINNER

Margaret Peddy Skinner, 91, a long-time resident of Montgomery, AL passed away unexpectedly Monday, December 4, 2023.

Margaret was born and raised in Elmore, AL. She graduated from Wetumpka High School in May of 1950.

Following high school she worked at the Montgomery Advertiser in the classified department for many years. Later she was employed by Alabama National Bank. Her last employment was City Drug in Montgomery, AL until she retired.

She was a member of Reformation Presbyterian Church in Pike Road. Her Christ-like personality and inviting spirit made her very involved in her church, in bible study, and the weekly special occasion card ministry. She was a member of the Retired

Police Reports

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

• JAN. 8

• Forgery was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

JAN. 7

• Domestic violence was reported on Lee Street. JAN. 6

• Theft was reported on U.S. Highway 231. JAN. 5

• Theft was reported on U.S. Highway 231. JAN. 4

• Reckless endangerment and discharging weapons inside the city limits was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

• Criminal trespass and disorderly conduct was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

JAN. 14

• A fight was reported on North Ann Avenue.

• A suspicious person was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Washington Boulevard.

• A suspicious person was reported on Herren Street.

• A white male was arrested during a traffic stop on Thelma Drive.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Wall Street.

• A domestic dispute was reported on McNeal Street.

• A private property motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Joy Street.

• A welfare check was conducted on Ashurst Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Main Street.

• A civil disturbance was reported on Laurel Street.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Ice Plant Road.

Officers Club. She loved to read and was extremely family-oriented. She will be dearly missed. The funeral was held December 8, 2023 at Mt. Hebron West Baptist Church, Elmore, AL. It was conducted by Rev. Don Johnson and Rev. Eric Sutton. Graveside services followed in Mt. Hebron West Cemetery. A reception was held in the fellowship following the graveside service. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, James Jr. and Jessie Perkins Peddy, her brothers, James Hester Peddy and Harmon Glenn Peddy, her sister-in-law Mary Lovett Peddy, her niece, Margaret Peddy Beck, and her husband, Lt. Col. William Edward Skinner, Sr. She is survived by her sister, Doris Peddy Beatty, her niece, Carolyn Peddy Bryan, and great nieces and nephew Blake Bryan, Katherine Berry, Mary Margaret Beck Dorow, and Elizabeth Beck Vandiver. Families she is also survived by include Elizabeth Skinner Parsons and husband Dee of Riverside, AL, Mary Skinner of Nashville, TN, Bill Skinner, Jr. and wife Nancy of Savannah, GA, and Margaret Skinner Nichols of Jacksonville, FL, a host of grandkids and great-grandkids and her caretaker of 6 years, Lorna McElrath-Allen. Serving as Pallbearers were Richard Beck, Bill Bryan, Jake Dorow, Johnnie Vandiver, Jeff Perkins, John Perkins, Seaton Parsons, Dr. W. A. Smith, Stan White, Bobby Joe Swindall, and Vann Watkins. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Margaret’s memory to New Home Baptist Church, 5130 Elmore Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 or Reformation Presbyterian Church, 9299 Vaughn Road, Pike Road, AL 36064.

JAN. 13

• Assistance was given to another agency on Lower River Road.

• An intoxicated person was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Highway 229.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on E.B. Payne Sr. Drive.

• A disorderly subject was reported on Delta Road.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Herren Hill Road.

• An intoxicated person was reported on Lee Street.

• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

JAN. 12

• A fight was reported on Hickory Street.

• Panhandling was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Riverhills Drive.

• An animal complaint was reported on Washington Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Riverhills Drive.

• An animal bite was reported on Friendship Road.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Notasulga Road.

Jan. 11

• Panhandling was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A domestic incident was reported on Stroud Street.

• A welfare check was conducted on Macedonia Road.

• A welfare check was conducted on Seventh Street.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Central

Boulevard.

• Reckless driving was reported on Poplar Street.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• A Black male was arrested on U.S. Highway 231.

• An animal complaint was reported on Little John Drive.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Riverhills Drive.

JAN. 10

• A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Little John Drive.

• Theft was reported on Adams Street.

• Harassment was reported on Highway 229.

• A Black male was arrested during a traffic stop on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to another agency on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Truman Street.

JAN. 9

• A domestic incident was reported on Third Street.

• Gunfire was reported on Oak Heights Road.

• A suspicious person was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A white male was arrested on U.S. Highway 231.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Preer Street.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on First Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on James Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Indian Trail.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Stroud Street.

• Animal control was requested on Kelly Place.

• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Ashurst Bar Road.

• A runaway juvenile was reported on E.B. Payne Sr. Drive.

• Trees in the roadway was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road. JAN. 8

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Hillcrest Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Jordan Avenue.

• A hit and run motor vehicle accident was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Friendship Road.

• A child custody dispute was reported on Davidson Street.

• Assistance was given during a medical call on Notasulga Road.

• Property damage was reported on Friendship Road.

• Criminal mischief was reported on North McKenzie Street.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Barnett Boulevard.

• An animal complaint was reported on Third Avenue.

• A stolen vehicle was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

2 shooting suspects plead not guilty

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

Two of the six suspects in custody in connection with the April 15 shooting in Dadeville have officially pleaded not guilty — and that decision could still be coming from a third.

Late December, Wilson Lamar Hill Jr., 20, and Willie George Brown Jr., 20, both of Auburn, both entered pleas of not guilty, according to court documents, and waived their rights to an arraignment hearing.

As for Johnny Letron Brown, 20, of Tuskegee, he will soon appear in court for the third time in connection with the charges. Thursday, his court-appointed attorney, David Dawson, filed a motion to set an arraignment date. That date has not been set yet.

A fourth suspect, Sherman Peters III, 15, of Tuskegee, is also awaiting another court date; he has a youthful offender hearing scheduled Feb. 28.

Although the other two suspects are being tried as adults, their court records are sealed from the public until the verdict. Their names, TyReik McCullough, 17, and Travis McCullough, 16, both of Tuskegee, and their likeness were previously provided to media outlets by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency despite the two being juveniles when the crime was allegedly committed. Alabama law includes the Alabama Confidentiality Act, which states all juvenile suspects tried as adults remain anonymous unless and until they are convicted. The difference in

Peters’ case is due to his age, he was initially charged as a juvenile whereas the other two were immediately tried as adults. Since the initial arrests, Peters has been in front of a judge, who ruled his case eligible for the adult court system therefore his court proceedings are public record despite the Confidentiality Act.

Because of this, Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. no longer has access to information about or photos of TyReik or Travis. The only known information is all six suspects are being held in custody with no bond available to them.

HILL J. BROWN PETERS W. BROWN

Humane Society of Elmore County News

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

While we have had cold weather for a month now, this week is bringing dangerous low temperatures for both man and animal. Starting Tuesday and for many nights in the near forecast, we will have temps well below 20 degrees. Don’t disregard these temps as unsheltered animals can die in these kinds of temperatures. This means bring your pets inside! Animals that are outside must have access to shelter with thick straw/bedding so they are protected from cold, wind and rain.

Wind chill affects animals just like it does us humans. A dog/cat house (meaning solid sides, top and floor) needs to be located so the wind doesn’t blast straight into it and also sized for the pet so they can build up body heat inside to keep warm. DRY bedding is essential. Straw (not hay) works well but no matter what kind of bedding, check it often to make sure it isn’t wet, or even missing. A wet blanket, or moldy pile of hay, or hard piece of plastic does nothing to help your pet deal with the cold so just don’t think because your dog has a plastic igloo, he or she can ‘handle’ this weather.

If you think that, we suggest you try spending the night in that igloo yourself. These igloos have no insulation so are just basically plastic boxes meaning cold in the winter and hot in the summer.

Please also take your pet’s age and health into account as young, healthy animals can handle inclement weather a lot better

Pet of the Week - Ava

An older horse might need to be blanketed in cold weather and an older dog with arthritis may need much thicker bedding to cushion aching joints and tired muscles. More frequent brushing to remove dead hair and dirt will also help your pet/livestock stay warm as a clean coat will provide better insulation against the weather.

than older animals.

An older horse might need to be blanketed in cold weather and an older dog with arthritis may need much thicker bedding to cushion aching joints and tired muscles. More frequent brushing to remove dead hair and dirt will also help your pet/livestock stay warm as a clean coat will provide better insulation against the weather.

Yes, there are breeds more acclimated to cold weather and they might be loving this weather but far more of our southern pets are not used to this weather and need appropriate protection from the cold.

Sadly we know of far too many pit bulls living lives tied to trees. These dogs have NO undercoat and are not super dogs that can withstand freezing temperatures. Like any other dog they need to be brought inside or given adequate shelter with bedding.

Keeping fresh water for pets or livestock is essential but they certainly cannot drink it if it is frozen. A log or milk jug full of water floating might at least help the surface of the water from freezing in the short term.

Our best advice is to go to your local feed store, pet store or online where you can get in-tank water heaters/heated water buckets pretty inexpensively. They

do need to be plugged in (can run a long outdoor extension cord if need be but make sure it is safe and cannot be chewed on or pulled out by pets/livestock), work great and are quite safe. This can save your muscles from hauling water and your pets/livestock will have clear fresh water no matter how low the temps go.

Now the water source like the standpipe/faucet can freeze and there is heat tape or even heated hoses but here in our area, generally, if your pets/livestock have a large tank of water that is kept from freezing, the daytime higher temps and sun will thaw out the hose/pipe/faucet so it can refill. This can mean checking on your water before it gets dark to refill it for the next day.

Hay for livestock is one of the best ways to help them keep up their body heat as a tummy full of digesting hay is like a furnace inside. With that hay, of course, make sure they have access to unfrozen water.

If you are worried about an animal that does not have appropriate shelter, is not being cared for, or seems to be a stray, please contact the appropriate Animal Control Officer/Law Enforcement so they can investigate.

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

Ava is a female

Aussie/Spaniel looking mix. She is almost 3 years old and weighs 40 pounds. She is incredibly sweet and loving. She is best with male dogs, good with cats and loves everyone. She is playful and happy and loves attention and walks. Ava originally came to us as a stray with puppies who all found their homes, so now it is her turn. The Humane Society

of Elmore County’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old. Cats over 1 can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, deworming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam with your

participating veterinarian. If you are interested in meeting Cola or any of the pets at HSEC, the first step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, you will be contacted by someone from the humane society. HSEC is located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. The phone number is 334-567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Combs gives justice to a fantastic song

“Mas a .jpeg attached to the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Herald or The Tribune.

usic is a total constant. That’s why we have such a strong visceral connection to it, you know? Because a song can take you back instantly to a moment, or a place, or even a person. No matter what else has changed in your or the world, that one song says the same, just like that moment.”

This quote from Just Listen by Sarah Dessen perfectly explains why music is so important in my life. There are songs that immediately take me back to a certain place or time, no matter what’s happening in my life.

Glad You Exist by Dan + Shay was the song I sang to my husband at our wedding, and I can’t help but grin from ear to ear when that song comes on the radio.

For whatever reason, Dirt Road Anthem by Jason Aldean takes me back to a late car ride home from a playoff basketball game. I vividly remember jamming out while my co-worker Shawn was asleep in the passenger seat — until all of a sudden he comes out of the deepest sleep directly into the words of the tune.

Why Don’t We Just Dance by Josh Turner will always be the song I was listening to when I

LIZI GWIN Managing Editor

found out my newest nephew was a boy. There are so many more of these examples, and I’ve also given careful consideration to that age-old question, “If you were on a deserted island with only five songs on repeat, what would they be?” For me, one of them would be “Fast Car,” and until recently, I would’ve easily told you that’s by Tracy Chapman — and it is. But the recent Luke Combs rendition is nothing short of spectacular, and it’s a fitting one to discuss this week. When Combs released his cover, it became the first song with a Black woman as the sole writer to top the Billboard country chart.

“What an awesome way to end the ride for ‘Fast Car’,” Combs tells Billboard. “It has been so cool to see everyone enjoying this song over the past few months, whether it was people who were hearing the song for the first time or people [for whom] it brought back memories of Tracy’s timeless recording.

I’m just glad this song got another life because it deserves to be around forever; it will always be one of my favorites. I’m glad we got to park Tracy’s song at the top of the Hot Country Songs chart, where it should be.”

What I loved most about Combs’ remake wasn’t the way his voice carried Chapman’s words or how the strum of the guitar was slightly slower than the original. It wasn’t the addition of drums or how passionate he sounded.

What I loved most about the remake was it gave justice to such an amazing song, and how he kept it so authentically what Chapman wanted it to be.

“You still ain’t got a job, so I work in the market as a checkout girl.”

Combs sang those words exactly, and he could’ve so easily changed it to “checkout boy.” But Combs’ remake wasn’t about him. Combs set out to create something equally as beautiful as the original, and he couldn’t have done a better job.

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

The sun will rise tomorrow

t’s funny how everyone is in mourning over Nick Saban’s retirement. Even a memorial has been created around his statue at Bryant-Denny Stadium as if he has passed away.

I’m a college football fan. I have been on the field for countless games across the SEC and country. I have shaken hands with many coaches. Many of my favorite memories surround college sports.

I was there when Auburn great Pat Nix hugged his son Bo after defeating Alabama at Jordan-Hare. I was there as Cadillac Williams, while still a player, split open an orange at Bryant-Denny hoping the Tigers would be selected for the BCS Championship. They weren’t.

But the sun still rose the next day and a few weeks later I photographed the same team taking over the ESPN Gameday set on the sidelines of the Sugar Bowl. I have seen my fair share of handshakes between Saban and many other coaches. I’ve photographed countless games in Jordan-Hare and Bryant-Denny.

But how important is Saban and college football to our daily lives?

While I respect the importance of high level coaches,

many need to take a closer look at who they put so much stock in. What stands out about my memories surrounding college sports is not the coaches. It’s not the athletes. It’s what they have done to cement relationships in life. Many of my friends are photographers across the country. Many of those I have met on the sidelines of football, basketball, track and gymnastics events. There were many low country boils and barbecues shared in parking lots across the country, many conversations held among photographers missing the shot or, in the case of my mentor Dave Martin, getting the shot.

CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

New roof approved for old Wetumpka Junior High

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

After nearly 6 inches of rain last week Elmore County Schools realized it had been doing a pretty important thing replacing roofs. Over the last few years older roofs have been approved for replacement as funds were available.

Elmore County Schools superintendent Richard Dennis said he received a call Tuesday morning from the Eclectic Middle School principal after the rains thanking him for a recently installed roof. But on the way to the office in Wetumpka Dennis stopped at Holtville High School and realized the system had more work to do.

COMING HOME

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

While Tiers of Sweetness is a new business, owners Denice Pittman and Cherryl Knighten are no strangers to Wetumpka.

The two sisters have been operating their bakery out of Pittman’s home in Montgomery as a cottage food business. For the past 10 years, it’s been a dream to open a storefront.

The sisters are bringing the business to the Wetumpka area where their father, who is now 88, grew up. Pittman said they have always heard stories about their dad going to downtown Wetumpka along Company Street and Bridge Street. With $1, he could see a movie, get a hamburger and buy a Coke.

Sharing their business in the place where their dad grew up is something near and dear to their hearts. Pittman said family is important to the both of them, although they originally didn’t start Tiers of Sweetness together.

Pittman first got into

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Millbrook Mayor Al Kelley is breathing a little easier after storms passed through the area last week.

baking when she took a cake decorating class in 2008 to make birthday cakes for her dogs. Pittman was a hairdresser at the time and said she never would have guessed she

“We had a principal carrying a Shop Vac out the back of the school full of water Tuesday morning,” Dennis said. The Elmore County Board of Education has roof repairs planned at Holtville High School. At its Friday meeting it already had a $189,000 bid to reroof the old Wetumpka Junior High School on the agenda. It approved the measure. Dennis said the facility once housed the career tech program’s culinary arts classes and since they have moved to the Elmore County Technical Center, the facility will be used for professional development of employees and testing of students on an as-needed basis. The board approved personnel actions and Dennis said special called meetings are needed this time of year to meet February deadlines for employee health insurance.

would be making food for people.

However, her passion grew from there and she started Tiers of Sweetness.

“God actually gave me the dream and the vision

Limited damage after storms in Millbrook

Just across the Autauga County line, homes were flooded in the Candlestick Park area, but Kelley said Millbrook was flooded but spared any severe damage.

“We had a lot of

water,” Kelley said. “Village Green was under water. Kids Kingdom Park had water running through it. Main Street had water all down it.”

Kelley said there were few trees down across Millbrook with

RISE

Continued from A4

of football, basketball, track and gymnastics events. There were many low country boils and barbecues shared in parking lots across the country, many conversations held among photographers missing the shot or, in the case of my mentor Dave Martin, getting the shot. But my favorite memories in college sports involve close family and friends.

The next meeting of the Elmore County Board of Education is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23.

Sisters to open bakery on Company Street

for having a storefront, which was nothing that I was really looking for and it’s been a dream ever since then to have a storefront — where people can come here and have a place of community, hang out, relax and just have a good time,” Pittman said.

Knighten came on board to help her sister full time after her retirement. From doing dishes to baking cakes, she wanted to help her sister with the business in any way she could.

“My goal was to do all the things I could do so that Denice could do what her vision, what her talent was that God had given her,” Knighten said. “Very quickly I loved it as well and now my car tag says, ‘Mighty Baker.’”

With the storefront going up, the sisters are managing current orders together while prepping to open on Company Street. Meanwhile, those in Wetumpka can spot the future Tiers of Sweetness with its bright pink door.

Inside the future bakery, there will be seating with

some minor damage to property at apartments near the Pines Golf Course.

Kelley gave the news of the weather after a Tuesday morning council meeting that had a limited agenda.

The council is updating its Floodplain Development and Damage Prevention ordinances, allowing flood

I remember my father getting tickets to an Auburn-Georgia football game in the 1980s. It happened to be the same game Georgia fans stormed the field after the Dawgs won at Jordan-Hare. The water was turned on and I remember a fan chanting, “Nothing stinks like a wet Dawg.”

It is an inside joke with my dad every time we see a wet pet or smell that smell.

I remember my grandfather taking me to countless games, too. My grandmother was often knitting in the stands as she didn’t care too much about the game. I still have some of those projects.

I remember seeing Shaq at Beard-Eaves Memorial Coliseum. My grandfather took my sister and myself to see the giant on the court in Auburn. Granddad enjoyed being with his grandchildren as much, or more, than the games we went to.

I remember the first Iron Bowl in Jor-

board games for people to play while they have their treats. With two floors, there will also be space for cake decorating classes and parties to be hosted.

The main color of the store is pink with an accent of lime green. The store will also have black and white damask print curtains to add a softness to the space.

Tiers of Sweetness will have a grab and go area with cake slices, cupcakes and its signature sandwich cookies. Through the back entrance the bakery will be wheelchair accessible, where the sisters will provide to-go and custom orders.

“We just love what we get to do and we're so excited,” Pittman said.

Not long after Tiers of Sweetness opens, the sisters are going to bring their parents down from Prattville for their dad to see the space and tell them more tales of growing up in Wetumpka.

Tiers of Sweetness will open at 112 Company St. within about a month.

insurance programs and FEMA to operate in the event of a flood. Other municipalities and governments are doing similar currently.

The council also approved a slight language change in documents for the land swap between the city and Grandview YMCA in the 17 Springs project and approved a repair for a vehicle for the parks and recreation department.

dan-Hare. I sat next to my sister.

So my favorite memories around college sports aren’t about the coach or the athlete. Those were just gateways to memories with family and friends.

In some cases, we idolize the wrong things. Don’t get me wrong, Saban has done great things on the field. To me, he has used the position to do even better things off the field through Nick’s Kids and more. I’m sure the foundation will last for years to come and continue to do great things.

Saban’s retirement now gives him a chance to make memories with his children and grandchildren. Those moments many fans seem to forget are more important than any coach or athletic endeavor.

The last few years I’ve created memories with my family, and especially my son, away from high level athletics.

I like sitting at the

A site plan for The Rex was approved.

Kelley said a kitchen container was planned to allow food service. Currently, food trucks sometimes come.

The next meeting of the Millbrook City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 23.

shed with my dad at the smoker for a BBQ. I like helping my mom in the kitchen. I like watching my son play soccer. I know little of the sport but love seeing him enjoy the game. I like watching my son’s eyes light up eating hotdogs at Chris’ in Montgomery and Gus’s in Birmingham. I love debating him on who has the better menu and food. Yes, Saban is legendary and likely irreplaceable. It is hard to say as an Auburn fan. I certainly hope his retirement helps create more memories with his family like I have with mine. For those fans either sulking in Saban’s retirement, cheering a transfer of power or contemplating other life issues, just remember what is truly important. The sun will still rise tomorrow.

Cliff Williams is the news editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.’s Elmore County newspapers.

SUBMITTED | TPI

Tiers of Sweetness is getting ready to open in downtown Wetumpka. This bakery is will have cakes, cupcakes and cookie sandwiches.

Donation

of Elmore County.

But instead of the children treating trash pick up like a punishment, the kids quickly flipped the script.

“I thought I was going to show them something mean by picking up litter and what some of the roads are like in the county,” Henson said.

“Instead, they started to like it. They liked to pick up trash. I started to make it a thing.”

It started with Jug Factory Road. The next time was Redland Road. That was more than a year ago. Henson,

AWARD

Continued from A1

hosted by the Elmore County Civic Improvement League. It was Percy B. Gill Visionary Award by Gill’s mother Idell Gill, who said it always goes to someone who has a vision for the betterment of the community.

“If you spoke to him at any time, he probably spoke to you about a vision,” Idell Gill said. “He always had an interest in our young people. He wanted to make sure they had something to do.” The Wetumpka Splash Pad was named in his memory in November. It was a project he spearheaded years ago. Gill also helped with the Boys and Girls Clubs in Elmore County.

“His vision was always for the kids,” Gill said of her son. “It wasn’t so much what he talked about, but what he walked out in

GUNFIRE

Continued from A1

his daughter Kayla, 11, and son Christopher, 15, kept going and going. Almost every other Saturday the trio can be found on the roads of Elmore County picking up trash.

“I think they learned a little bit of a lesson,” Henson said. “I haven’t seen any more trash along the driveway.”

Henson created the Elmore County Community Trash Pickup page on Facebook with the idea to find roads to clean up and post events challenging others to join in the effort.

Last weekend, they picked up 15 bags of litter in the Redland community and posted to social media

his life.”

Gill said Lewis-Jackson is an exceptional individual and embodies the qualities of her son.

“She encourages unity and hope,” Gill said. “She is a visionary and inspiration to all of us. She has broken barriers and paved the way for future generations.”

Lewis-Jackson received a text from Gill to prepare her for receiving the award and to make a few remarks. At Sunday’s ceremony Lewis-Jackson said she was still in shock.

“To be honored with an award named after Percy is everything,” Lewis-Jackson said.

A graduate of Wetumpka, Lewis-Jackson attended the University of Alabama. While in law school Lewis-Jackson said Percy contacted her. It was a story that hadn’t been shared with the Gill family.

“He encouraged me to get out and vote and

found marijuana, an unknown white rock substance, methamphetamine, an unknown brown wax substance, multiple cigarette lighters, four containers of alcohol, a large amount of brown cigars, multiple prepaid AT&T cellphones, a large number of needles and an unknown white substance. There were also 11 one dollar bills.

Two deputies testisted they saw Crumpton at the wheel of a car found to be registered to Crumpton’s then girlfriend.

Crumpton’s defense attorney Michael Kidd asked the deputies if there was a chance during the foot

Yarboro moved to Alabama in 1969 settling in Birmingham with his parents.

“It was the tail end of the ugliness there but it was far from over,” Yarboro said.

Yarboro went to Ramsey High School. He said at the time the freshman class was set up to be racially balanced at 50-50.

“I consider that a blessing in my education,” Yarboro said.

Yarboro said he has studied King’s works, writing, speeches and sermons for years. He said King fought against racism but without rebuking individuals.

about. The post took off.

“I wanted to get the community’s attention,” Henson said.

“Everybody is always on the phone. Everybody is always on Facebook. I was like, ‘Instead of running my mouth, let me put it out there where everybody is at.’”

Henson realized Elmore County doesn’t have the manpower alone through public works to pick up litter.

“They are working on the roads and more,” Henson said. “It is time for the community to step up. Everybody wants to talk badly about it, but nobody wants to solve the problem.”

Henson said it has

get into politics,” Lewis-Jackson said. “He is one of the reasons why got involved and ran for county commission.”

Lewis-Jackson said Gill believed in community and unity and worked hard for it in Elmore County and beyond.

“I got chills when my campaign and promise to the district was based on the same principles,” Lewis-Jackson said.

The young commissioner who graduated from the University of Alabama in 2011 said she is proud of the path Elmore County has taken to make things better for everyone, but she is not solely responsible.

“We have brought the community together. We have gotten so much done,” Lewis-Jackson said. “I say we because it is a team. There is no me or I. We can not be successful if we are not all together. We are going to continue

pursuit someone could have planted the evidence in the car. Deputies testified there was not enough time for that to occur.

Kidd also argued the case was in the wrong jurisdiction. But Elmore County District Court Judge Glen Goggans said the preliminary hearing was not an evidence suppression hearing. Goggans said the initial traffic stop then pursuit gave reason for the charges to be levied in Elmore County. Goggans bound the case over to an Elmore County Grand Jury for a possible indictment.

Crumpton also asked for a reduction in bond from $1.5 million to $75,000 with him wearing an ankle monitor. Goggans denied the request.

of the most critical voices speaking Gospel truth in the time he lived, but he did not demonize anyone,” Yarboro said. “He did not demonize any of those who arrested him. He also did not keep quiet about demonlike behavior.”

Yarboro continues to study King and his work. He said King believed the work against racism was also at home and in the neighborhoods, not just in fighting laws.

“I hear him say, ‘That is not neighborly,’” Yarboro said. “We still live in a time where people are consumed with the question of who is my neighbor. The bottom line is most people respond with the wrong answer.”

“So many of you have made contributions to this community,” Willis said. “It has allowed us to be the best we can possibly be. We have come a long way. We are not the Wetumpka we used to be. We are a new Wetumpka.” DREAM Continued from A1

The Elmore Coun -

ty Civic Improvement League promotes the awareness of social and civic relations with Elmore County. It partnered with the City of Wetumpka several years back to work towards that goal.

Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis welcomed everyone to the event noting work has been done over the years with more to be done. Willis said many in attendance had been part of conversations over the years.

“He was perhaps one

been enlightening to see the comments on his Facebook page. Some people have named roads for the Hensons to clean up next.

Henson hopes to move around the county, picking a different road to tackle each time from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month.

“The other day my kids and I picked up for three hours and picked up 15 bags,” Henson said. “If three people can pick up 15 bags in that time, imagine what 20-30 people can do. It will go by so much quicker. There is trash everywhere. If I see my two kids having a

the vision Percy has passed to me.”

good time and learning a lesson from it,

maybe others will get the same inspiration.”

SUBMITTED TPI

COUNTRY Financial Representative Dustin Booth presents a donation of $750 to Disabled America Veterans Chapter. The funds will be used for local disabled vets that need assistance in our community. The aid goes toward transportation costs back and to the VA hospital, food, clothing and other necessities.

Choose carefully when packing your bag

I’ve been waiting for Jesus to lead the way for this article and I sure hope it helps you as much as His message has helped me in the past. One Sunday morning in January of 2020, The Holy Spirit gave me a visual message that was so helpful for me as I was getting dressed for church. It was regarding what I needed to leave behind from the previous year and what I needed to carry with me into the new one. Before Sunday School began, I drew the visual

BETHLEHEM

Bethlehem

a.m.

at 11 a.m. in the

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.

MELINDA BLAIR Columnist

message on the board with illustrations and took a photo of it for use on my Facebook ministry. I had no idea that our teacher for the day was going to be absent, but God certainly did and He prepared the way for me. He also gave me the bravery I needed to volunteer to lead the class.

Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. the church offers Children’s Gospel Project, Youth Bible Study and Adult Prayer Meeting. Regular office hours are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

EAST TALLASSEE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

ETUMC’s Rivers Edge Flea Market is now closed. The church will start a new project called Rivers Edge Food Pantry. ETUMC will provide canned food, water, dry beans and rice, blan-

Because of my kid spirit, I drew a cartoon style airplane with a smiley face, four puffy clouds, windows, a cross on the door, and the words “Flight Joy 2020” written on the side like an airline company name. Currently, I just insert 2024 and it works the same. I’d written one word inside each cloud and they were Joy, Peace, Hope, and Love, and below the plane I wrote 1. Carefully choose items to be packed in your carry-on bag. 2. Hopefully, all your unnecessary baggage will be

Church Briefs

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

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE EPIPHANY

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

lost. The cross on the door is because Jesus is the pilot and our pathway to victory. I spoke for a short while with the class about intimacy with Jesus and tears began to puddle in my eyes, because my message was like this, “I’ve allowed something brutally painful to bruise my spirit and cause nausea for a while, but I will NOT carry it into my new year!! We then had discussion time instead of a lesson and others shared some amazingly wonderful stories. We specifically pack our

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

HARMONY

carry-on bags because we want certain things close at all times, and let’s not carry anything from last year that will affect our journey on Flight Joy 2024. Lay the baggage down if it burdens you, and pack only those things that are positive, helpful, and inspirational. God tells us in Matthew 11:28 to come to Him when we are weary and heavily burdened and He will give us rest.

Melinda Blair is a regular religion columnist for Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.

person Sunday mornings at 8:50 a.m. (contemporary) or 11 a.m. (traditional). Sunday School for all ages is offered Sunday mornings at 10 a.m., and a nursery is available for infants. CHILDREN & YOUTH: meet Sunday evenings from 5-6:30 p.m. and Wednesday evenings from 6-7:15 p.m.; supper is included both days! For more information about our church or the programs we offer, visit our website: fumctallassee.com or call us: 334-283-2195. FUMC

Tallassee - 1 Jordan Avenue.”

OUR LIFE’S JOURNEY Airs every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. on 580 WACQ, FM 98.5 & 101.1, on your smart speaker, your TuneIn app, or on our website www.wacqradio. com. Please share on social media. This set of programs features Msgr. Charles Troncale, Fr. Mateusz Rudzik, Fr. James Dean, Fr. David Carucci, Fr. Patrick Driscoll, and Deacon Jim Labadie.

For God did not send his Son into the

Henry Zimmer SportS editor henry.zimmer@alexcityoutlook.com

Indians wrestling ends duals season in first round

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Wetumpka’s duals wrestling team saw its season come to a sudden and heartbreaking end Saturday afternoon.

Wrestling in the first round of the AHSAA Class 6A duals playoffs at Pike Road Elementary, Wetumpka fell to Saraland, 42-34, because of an injury forfeit in the final class of

the match.

The Indians were trailing by two points, 36-34, when Eli Walsh stepped up and was set to wrestle his opponent in the 106 class.

Walsh, who entered the match with a 19-6 overall record this year, was winning his match late in the first round when he had to take an injury timeout for his arm.

After deciding to continue wrestling, he maintained his 5-4 lead but

Wetumpka boys knock off rival Stanhope Elmore

By GRIFFIN PRITCHARD

For The Herald

The “No hope, Stanhope” chants from the Wetumpka High student section began as soon as the girls’ game ended. This game felt like a rivalry bout, with both sides giving voice to the on-court action.

And once the ball was tipped off, the action didn’t slow down as the Mustangs and Indians met for the second time this season following the Tribe’s Elmore County Tournament victory over the Mustangs.

Wetumpka took the floor and the fight to their cross-county rivals – racing out to a large first-quarter lead. That rally set the tempo for the rest of the night on the way to Wetumpka’s 77-67 victory.

“Whenever we play Stanhope Elmore, whenever we play a crosstown rival, we know these guys are buddies,” Wetumpka coach Steven Thomas said. “They grew up together and played together. Seeing them across the court in a different colored jersey gives you a little more juice.

(Even having the cheerleaders involved) gets you into it. You want to come out and play that much harder.”

Nate Rogers and Malik Owens led the Indians, scoring a combined 61 of the Indians' 77. Rogers finished the night with 37. Owens added 24.

Corion Gilder, who had a season-high 23 in the county tournament final, finished the night with 21 in Friday’s loss to Wetumpka.

“We worked on things that would help in this game,” Thomas said.

“Seeing this week of practice – coming out and doing the little things we talked about this week – was encouraged and showed that we could do what we wanted.”

The Indians tipped things off and raced to a 7-2 run, highlighted by Rogers converting an and-1.

Stanhope Elmore scored to break the run, but it didn’t slow the Indians' rally as Owens scored on back-to-back shots.

The Gilder-led Mustangs closed the gap to 11-7 and then quickly fell behind as the Indians were able to create chaos in transition and translate that into points.

When the horn sounded to signal the end of the first period, the Indians were on top 20-7.

The Rogers-Owens tandem continued to push the pace for Wetumpka in the second and third quarter thwarting Stanhope Elmore’s attempts to rally.

“Some games this year, we’ve come out sluggish and that dictates the rest of the game,” Thomas said. “But with our start tonight, holding them to seven points and all that work we put in, it’s great to see the confidence that we played with.”

The game became more competitive going into the fourth period, with Wetumpka leading 59-51.

Wetumpka reverted to their first-period dominance though and quickly outscored their rivals 10-4 to push ahead 69-55.

The Mustangs ultimately fell victim to turnovers as Wetumpka was able to take advantage and create points to keep on top completing the horn-to-horn run. The Indians never trailed on the way to the win.

was hurt again less than 30 seconds later. Despite his best efforts, Walsh was unable to continue and his match was forfeited even though he was winning at the time.

With Saraland already winning by two points, the lead grew to eight and the Spartans advanced to the quarterfinals while Wetumpka was sent home.

“It really hurt seeing that happen there,” head coach Josh Highland said. “That

really just shows how this season has gone. We could be up and then all of a sudden an injury happens. We’ve been plagued with injuries. I really hate it for Eli. He went out there and gave it everything he had and then went out with an injury. It sucks to see that.”

Wetumpka was already dealing with injuries before Saturday’s match, which led the Indians to being

DEFENDING CHAMPS

HIT THE FIELD FOR OPENING DAY OF PRACTICE

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

After a long offseason of celebrating, the Wetumpka softball team is back on the diamond.

Wetumpka, along with baseball, softball, soccer and golf teams from around the county, hit their respective fields for the first official day of practice on Monday.

The Lady Indians, which won the AHSAA Class 6A state championship last year, got started at practice at 11 a.m. and started fielding drills as soon as warm ups were over.

“It feels great to be back out here,” head coach Daryl Otwell said. “We’re excited about the group we have coming back out here

this spring. As a coaching staff, we were ready to see how they’d respond after the championship and come out flat, but the way they worked this summer and fall, we have been impressed with the girls.”

This year’s team feels

different for Wetumpka. Instead of starting over fresh, the Indians return the majority of their lineup back to the field this season. That includes five seniors who have already

See CHAMPS, Page B2

Stanhope Elmore’s Jackson transfers to West Virginia

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

One of the county’s best football players in recent history is transferring colleges.

T.J. Jackson, a 2019 Stanhope Elmore graduate and former Elmore County Defensive Player of the Year, announced this week he is transferring from Troy to West Virginia. The All-Sun Belt defensive lineman picked West Virginia over Texas A&M, See TRANSFERS, Page B2

DALTON MIDDLETON TPI

Wetumpka’s Noah Smith slams his opponent down. Saraland beat Wetumpka, 42-34, in the first round of the 6A duals playoffs.

WRESTLING, Page B2

Wetumpka’s Nate Rogers scored a game-high 37 points in the Indians’ win over Stanhope Elmore on Friday night.

DALTON MIDDLETON | TPI

ABOVE: Wetumpka shortstop Cassidy Bowers turns a double play in the Indians’ first practice on Monday.

TOP: Wetumpka second baseman Candler Brooks fields a ground ball during the Indians’ first practice of the spring.

Stanhope Elmore’s T.J. Jackson (94) tackles a player when he was in high school. Jackson, an All Sun Belt player the last two seasons at Troy, has transferred to West Virginia for his last two years of eligibility.

Houston, Indiana, Boston College and Jacksonville State.

He will have two seasons of eligibility left.

“He’s been the best defensive lineman in the Sun Belt the last two seasons and is going to be a great schematic fit for coach Jordan Lesley’s defense at WVU,” Stanhope Elmore coach Hunter Adams said.

In the last three seasons at Troy, Jackson recorded 94 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, four passes defended and one fumble recovery.

His best season was in 2022 when he was given All-Sun Belt First Team honors for his stellar campaign. That year, he recorded 55 tackles with a team-high 14.5 tackles for loss and eight sacks as well as two forced fumbles.

He was one of just 16 players nationally to record such a stat line. His eight sacks ranked third in the Sun Belt while his 14.5 tackles for loss ranked second in the conference.

During his junior season this past fall, he played in only 12 games but was still able to record 27 tackles, seven tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks.

“T.J. is an aggressive and explosive defender that can make plays from any position on the defensive front,” Adams said. “He can be disruptive at the nose, be a penetrating defensive tackle or 4i and he’s athletic enough to get pressure off the edge.”

Jackson has been dominant since he was at the high school level. While earning Elmore County Defensive Player of the Year honors his senior year, he recorded 72 tackles and forced five fumbles.

Even more impressive was ability to get into the backfield as he tallied an impressive 41 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks. He helped lead Stanhope Elmore to a 9-3 record and a second round playoff berth in 2019.

CHAMPS

Continued from B1

signed to their respective colleges and a junior who is committed to a Division I program.

There are more players with experience from last year’s team as only two starters from last year’s championship team did not return.

That allows Wetumpka to jump straight into practice and not have to harp on the small things that Otwell’s team already has down for the most part.

“The good thing about this year compared to year’s past is that this group returns so much,” Otwell said. “They already know all of the little things that we’ve worked on over the years. They know what we’re looking for and how practice is going to go. We still touch on the cornerstones, but they’ve been there and done it all.”

Wetumpka is coming off a 54-6 overall record and the second state championship in school history. The Indians return their top two pitchers in Mya Holt, who won last year’s Gatorade Player of the Year, and Ella Watson. When one is in the circle, the other is in center field.

There’s also Riley Dismukes in right field, a West Alabama signee.

In the infield is Mari Beth Parette and Cassidy Bowers, a Gadsden State and Pensacola State signee.

At first base is junior Lily Davenport, an Anderson University commit.

The five of them combined for 241 hits, 37 home runs and 219 runs batted in. In the circle, Holt and Watson combined for 52 of the team’s 54 wins and struck out 329 batters while both players had an earned run average under 1.5.

After dropping the first game of regionals last season, the Indians went on to win eight-straight games to clinch their state championship.

In the state tournament held in Oxford, Wetumpka went 4-0 with and walked off Athens in extra innings in the state championship game.

Now with practice starting back, the Tribe is looking to repeat.

“Everybody has the state tournament on their mind because we all know we have the potential to go back if we do what we need to do in the regular season,” Watson said. “With it being on everybody’s mind, that’s just a step we’re going to have to take.”

Continued from B1

without one of their top wrestlers.

Zach Crosthwait, who had a 25-1 record in the 190 class, has missed the last few matches for Wetumpka. But despite his absence, Wetumpka was able to scratch and claw its way to nearly winning on Saturday.

Mustangs run wild in win over Wetumpka

By GRIFFIN PRITCHARD For The Herald

The Stanhope Elmore Mustangs set the tone for Friday’s win in the first quarter, outscoring their cross-county rivals by nine points en route to the 60-38 win. Jada Mcleod led the wild horses offense with 18 points. Ariel Gilchrist pitched in 14 points as the Mustangs improved to 1-1 in the area.

“We were going to run a lot of man defense because they knew Wetumpka was going to run a lot of high screens to get the ball to (Aaliyah Humphrey) around the perimeter,” Stanhope Elmore coach Kelvin Stokes said. “So that’s how we were able to limit them to just three points.”

Humphrey – who finished the night with 13 pointshad the only basket of the first period, a jumper. Gabby Jackson hit a free throw in the opening frame to bring

the scoring to three points for the Indians.

In the second quarter, Wetumpka was able to take advantage of the Mustangs’ miscues and cut the lead to eight points, 22-14 at the break.

“In the second quarter we got lackadaisical,” Stokes said. “I was very disappointed in our second-quarter defense and our scoring efforts. After the half, we came out and began imposing our will defensively and scoring. That’s when things started crumbling for

Wetumpka.”

Things went south for the hometown Tribe in the second half.

The Mustangs scored on back-to-back trips down the floor and then Mcleod scored on a loose ball lay-up. Stanhope Elmore turned another turnover into points to push ahead 30-18 with 6:07 left to play in the period.

The Indians fought throughout the period but were ultimately outscored 16-10 as the Mustangs entered the fourth leading 38-24.

The hopes of a comeback eroded in the fourth as Stanhope Elmore pushed ahead 50-29 midway through the last period. Gilchrist scored on a short jumper and then drained a three-pointer with 2:12 left in the game forcing Wetumpka to call a timeout.

The Indians answered with a three of their own coming out of the conversation, but they still trailed 59-38 with less than 30 ticks left on the clock. Stanhope Elmore sank a late free throw to bring the game to the final mark 60-38.

“Wetumpka couldn’t find their groove because we got more active and physical on defense,” Stokes said. “It was winning time. They’ve got great shooters. They can spot up and hit threes and with the crowd here, we didn’t want that. We didn’t want a close game. In the second half we effectively started rebounding better and started getting the ball out in transition.”

Elmore County boys playing better ball in 2024

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The Elmore County boys basketball record doesn’t look great, but first-year coach Nathan Taylor knows his record isn’t indicative of the team the Panthers are putting on the court.

Elmore County currently has a 1-12 overall record and is 0-1 in AHSAA Class 5A, Area 6 play. As the season goes along, however, the Panthers are playing in closer and closer games.

The Panthers have five games that have been decided by three points or less, including this past Friday’s area matchup against Marbury.

The wins haven’t started adding up, but the losses are looking better than the 20and 30-point losses the team was suffering earlier this year.

“We’re finally starting to play better,” Taylor said. “Early this season, we couldn’t guard a parked car if we tried. It was just a lot of effort-based stuff. But right now, we’re starting to hit our stride at the right time with area play beginning.”

On Friday, Elmore County hit the road for the first area

THURSDAY, JAN. 18

HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING

4 Elmore County at Beauregard, TBD

4 Wetumpka at McAdory, TBD

4 Stanhope Elmore at St. James, TBD HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL

4 Marbury at Elmore County, 5 p.m.

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

4 Ellwood Christian at

The Indians found themselves down, 31-20, at the top of their weight classes. Christian Preston and Willie Cox, the two defending state champions, both came up and gave Wetumpka back-to-back pins and the lead at 32-31.

Directly after, Saraland earned a win via decision to take the lead before Walsh’s medical forfeit.

“I’m proud of the guys for fight-

matchup against Marbury. It was a rough shooting night for the Panthers despite only losing, 48-45. In the game, Elmore County shot 0 of 11 from 3-point range while also hitting only 40% from the free-throw line. While shooting woes plagued the Panthers, they added a cherry on top by missing six layups.

After all that was said done, Elmore County was cut a once 11-point deficit to two points late in the game before ultimately falling.

“We just let opportunities slip away in that one,” Taylor said. “That one was our game to take but we didn’t make enough plays down the stretch. We fought hard but

Tallassee, 6 p.m.

4 Wetumpka at Carver, 6 p.m.

FRIDAY, JAN. 19 HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL

4 Holtville at Elmore County, 4:30 p.m.

4 Edgewood Academy at Evangel, 4 p.m.

4 Tallassee at Barbour County, 6 p.m.

4 Stanhope Elmore at Sidney Lanier, 6 p.m.

we missed a couple of opportunities.”

Shooting woes have hurt Elmore County all season. In the close losses, the outcome could have been changed by just one or two 3-pointers hitting.

Instead, Taylor has seen his team’s shots bounce out of the rim over and over again this season.

Now, the Panthers are trying to run the offense more along the inside with Jabari Murphy who hit the game-winning layup in Elmore County’s only win of the season up to this point.

“We haven’t shot the ball well, so we’re trying to get the ball inside more to

MONDAY, JAN. 22

HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL

4 Dadeville at Elmore County, 4:30 p.m.

4 Shelby County at Holtville, 4:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, JAN. 23

HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLING

4 Holtville/Reeltown at Elmore County, 5:30

ing,” Highland said. “We have a really young team and a lot of them haven’t been in this spotlight. Injuries aren’t helping us either, but we just have to find guys who want it. That’s it.”

As Wetumpka now turns its sights back to the traditional season and individual tournaments, Highland hopes his team can learn from the tough duals season and grow from it.

His team is young, as 33 wrestlers

Jabari,” Taylor said. “That has been working for us. We’re starting to figure it out on offense some. With that being said, we’re handling hard better. When things get hard, we’re finding ways to get out of it. We’ve been able to grit our teeths and get back in games.”

The 3-point loss to Marbury is just the beginning of a two-week stretch of area games for Elmore County.

On Thursday this week, Elmore County will host Marbury for their second matchup before hosting Holtville on Friday night.

Next Tuesday, Elmore County hits the road to Holtville to wrap up area play.

Marbury currently has a 2-0 record in area play while Holtville and Elmore County are each 0-1.

To have a chance to host the area tournament and automatically clinch a playoff berth, Taylor’s team must win all three games ahead of them.

“We want to send it to a coin flip now,” Taylor said. “We have to beat Marbury on Thursday and beat Holtville twice. Then we hope to win a coin flip so we can host the area tournament.”

at Edgewood Academy, 4 p.m. 4 Tallassee at Valley, 6 p.m. 4 Carver at Wetumpka, 6 p.m. 4 Sidney Lanier at Stanhope Elmore, 6 p.m.

who are sophomores or younger wrestled at the varsity level this season. Of his 14 regular starters in duals competition, five are freshmen or eighth graders.

“It’s been an up-and-down season,” Highland said. “We looked really good then turned around and took a bad loss. We’ll get there. These guys are going to figure it out and that’s part of wrestling.”

SPORTS CALENDAR

FILE TPI

In Friday night’s win over Wetumpka, Stanhope Elmore senior Jada McLeod scored a game-high 18 points.

FILE TPI

Elmore County’s Gage Davis (12) scored a team-high 21 points in Elmore County’s loss to Marbury last week.

Big Buck photo contest continues

TPI STAFF Staff Report

As Alabama deer hunters hit the woods to take full advantage of the rut, the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association wants to see your best buck photos.

The ALBBAA Big Buck Photo Contest runs through Friday, Feb. 16, providing hunters with plenty of time to submit a photo in this year’s contest. All entries and voting occurs online through the ALBBAA website.

“We are thankful for hunters who have already submitted photos, but we want to remind everyone that photos will be accepted through the end of deer season and online voting runs through Feb. 16,” ALBBAA director Pam Swanner said. “We encourage hunters to keep the photos coming.”

The contest is sponsored by the Central Alabama Farmers Cooperative in Selma. Photos of bucks harvested during the 202324 archery and firearms season are eligible.

To enter the contest, hunters must upload through the ALBBAA website a photo of a buck harvested from within the 23-county Black Belt region. The buck must be harvested during 20232024 whitetail deer season. It is important to have on orange if the photo you submit is taken while still in the woods. The winner of the contest is selected exclusively through online voting.

Voting is conducted on the same page where all entries must be submitted – https://alabamablackbeltadventures.org/newsmore/shoot-the-black-belt/ big-buck-photo-contest/ Visitors to the contest webpage may vote once per day, per entry, per IP address. In the case of any dispute, the decision of ALBBAA is final. Photo

contest winners from the previous two years are not eligible for entry.

ALBBAA reserves the right to approve or disapprove of the photo submitted. Cause for disqualification of photo can include, but is not limited to, the following: The photo content presents the subject in an unethical or disrespectful composition, the photo content is perceived to cast a negative perception of hunters and their contribution to the management of wildlife or voting violation which imposes an unfair advantage to others.

The contestant who receives the most online votes before voting ends Feb. 16 will receive two game cameras valued at approximately $350 courtesy of Central Alabama Farmers Cooperative.

The 2023-24 deer season ends Feb. 10, but voting will continue through midnight on Feb. 16 to allow additional voting time for photos submitted after the final weekend of hunting season.

“Alabama’s Black Belt is recognized for having bountiful deer hunting opportunities, and we hope hunters will continue to share their photos with our organization,” Swanner said.

ALBBAA reminds all sportsmen and sportswomen to wear orange and to purchase a hunting license online through the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources before heading afield. Additionally, successful hunters are also reminded to report their harvested deer through Game Check.

The Black Belt includes the following 23 counties: Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Crenshaw, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Pike, Russell, Sumter, Tuscaloosa and Wilcox.

Holtville’s Segarra wins PCA Panther Invitational

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Holtville wrestler Sam Segarra is starting to find his stride.

The Holtville senior, wrestling in the middle weights at 146 and 152, has had a stellar start to his 2024 half of the season.

Segarra has only lost once since coming back from Christmas break, and he had an undefeated week in his last three events.

In two tri-matches last week, he won matches against Reeltown, St. James and two against Brewbaker Tech. Three of his four wins came via pin, then he went on to win four more matches in the PCA Panther Invitational over the weekend.

After receiving a bye in the opening round, he went on to pin his next three opponents to claim the championship in the 150-pound class.

For his 8-0 week and his tournament championship, Segarra has been named the Elmore County Player of the Week.

“He’s gotten better and better as the year has gone on,” head coach David Lovering said. “He’s gotten really good and he’s not just barely beating kids. He’s beaten some really good, state qualified kids in a dominant way.”

Segarra currently has a 25-6 overall record for the Bulldogs, which ranks best on the team. Over half of his wins have come since the Christmas break where he has a 13-1 overall record. He placed third in the Julian McPhillips Invitational right after the break.

In that tournament, he lost his opening match to Conner Johnston of St. James. He took down Johnston twice in the match, but Johnston was able to turn it around and pin Segarra.

But Johnston’s victory was short-lived.

Segarra then pinned his next three opponents, all in the first period, to set up a rematch in the consolation semifinals with Johnston. Not to be outdone, he pinned Johnston at the 2:33 mark.

He then went on to pin his opponent from PCA in the championship.

“He’s only lost one match since Christmas and he turned around and pinned the

kid later that day,” Lovering said. “Most of the time he wrestles, he’s giving us six points because he pins the majority of his opponents. It doesn’t matter what weight class he’s in either. He’s going to win his match.”

It hasn’t always come this easy for Segarra. After starting wrestling in the eighth grade, he missed his ninth grade season because of COVID-19. But then he bounced back in the last two seasons and took his lumps, but kept on being what Lovering calls the hardest worker he’s ever coached. He’s done that while also playing soccer and running cross country, and the wins finally started coming last year and this year.

Last season, he just bare-

ly missed qualifying for the state tournament by one match.

This year, he’s been a top placer at multiple tournaments and is hoping to make a good run at state.

He took fourth place in Wetumpka’s Indians Invitational, then took third place in a tournament at Hewitt Trussville. He followed that up with third place at the Julian McPhillips tourney and now first place at PCA. “For some kids in wrestling, they put in the hard work and it takes a few years to really get going,” Lovering said. “But when that switch is flipped, it’s flipped. For Sam, it just flipped this year and he’s beaten some really good kids.”

Christmas Eve suspect identified

TPI STAFF Staff Report

The Millbrook Police Department has identified and arrested a suspect wanted for fraudulent use of a debit card investigation, according to a CrimeStoppers press release. Investigators originally requested public assistance Jan. 1 and were seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspect. Police say Stevette Lewis was identified as the suspect. Warrants were signed, and the suspect turned

herself over to the police a short time later.

On Christmas Eve, Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023, police responded to Hill Liquor and Wine located at 107 Kelley Boulevard in Millbrook in reference to a fraudulent use of a debit card investigation. Upon arrival, police determined the victim used their debit card to make a small purchase, the victim accidentally left the debit card in the card reader. The victim left the business when an unidentified female was behind the victim, observed that the card was left in the machine and

took the victim’s card to make a transaction.

Once the card was approved, the suspect made another large purchase using the same card. The suspect then traveled to another area business and used the card to make additional purchases.

According to the release, Millbrook Police investigators appreciate an anonymous tip, which helped identify the suspect. Investigators credit this tip with solving the case, the release said. A cash reward will be given by Central Alabama CrimeStoppers.

Two DOC employees arrested for using position for personal gain

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Alabama Department of Corrections employees are still being accused of smuggling contraband into state prisons.

Two Elmore Correctional Facility employees were arrested last Tuesday on charges of using their position for personal gain. Bunion Earl Thomas, 24, and Eli

New fire truck delivered to Emerald Mountain

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Homes in the Emerald Mountain area will soon be a little safer.

After months of waiting, the Emerald Mountain Volunteer Fire Department has a new quint fire truck. The quint version of a fire truck serves five functions as an aerial, pumper, water tank, fire hose and ladder truck. The real need on the truck in Emerald Mountain is the aerial.

“It gives us elevation for water on a lot of these bigger houses,” EMVFD chief Phillip Hethcox said. “We have a lot of two and three story homes.” With the growth of Emerald Mountain and the Redland area, the need for fire safety

became a top priority. There are also the Redland Middle and Redland Elementary schools the department has to respond to.

“We have big churches, too,” Hethcox said. “This will

Charlie Deramus, 32, both of Montgomery, were booked into the Elmore County Jail. Court documents state ADOC corrections officers conducted a search of an

arrive, if flames are coming through the roof, options are limited for an interior attack on a fire.

“This can be set up to knock that down quickly and be able to get inside without getting in too much trouble,” Hethcox said of the truck.

The truck will roll out of the station when the department is finished equipping it — hopefully sometime next month. Hethcox has gotten a grant to help purchase a firehose for the new truck. New battery-operated extrication equipment totaling $58,000 has been ordered.

help us a lot with that too. It will help a lot of the (fire safety ratings).”

Being a volunteer department, it might not have the response of large paid departments. Once firefighters

“There will be rope rescue equipment on it too,” Hethcox said.

Hethcox currently has 13 years of service as a fulltime firefighter in Wetumpka. He retired after 23 years at the Montgomery Fire Department

inmate and found a cell phone.

“Within the cell phone, multiple ADOC officers were shown to be in communication with the inmate,” the documents state. “[Deramus] showed to have received over $3,500 from the inmate through CashApp.”

Thomas received approximately $360.

Both officers admitted they smuggled contraband into Elmore Correctional Facility for the inmate. ADOC said in a statement both officers resigned their positions. The case is still under investigation and more charges are possible. Deramus and Thomas were both released on a $5,000 bond Wednesday. No future court date has been scheduled as of Thursday morning.

previously. Hethcox was a student when he first started volunteering for a fire department in the late 1970s. He depended on his decades of experience to aid in the development of the new truck.

The new truck has a 75-foot ladder, is capable of carrying 500 gallons of water and pumping 1,500 gallons of water per minute.

“It has the ability to run the aerial and supply water for lines at the same time,” Hethcox said.

The department’s old pumper has a 1,000 gallon water tank. The new truck had to give up some capacity to hold the equipment for the aerial.

The department didn’t receive a grant to purchase the truck.

“I tried for three years to get a grant to get this truck

and never got one,” Hethcox said.

Instead, the department has been saving its monies from Elmore County, donations through a yearly mail campaign and all sorts of fundraisers.

Hethcox said the department ordered the truck just in time. It used some of its savings and borrowed the rest to cover the $800,000 purchase price.

“It’s a good thing we did,” Hethcox said. “Today the truck is about $1.3 million. I don’t know if we could afford that.”

Hethcox said bigger and paid departments have trucks like this. He noted Pike Road, Montgomery and Wetumpka.

“I don’t know of a fully volunteer fire department that has this,” Hethcox said. “It is really needed though.”

DEARMUS THOMAS

Holtville wrestler Sam Segarra won the PCA Panther Invitational this weekend in the 150-pound class. Segarra went 8-0 on the week.

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SALE UNDER POWER FORECLOSURE NOTICE WHEREAS, default has occurred in the performance of the covenants, terms and conditions of a mortgage from LISA HUDGINS HARRIS, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS MORTGAGEE, AS NOMINEE FOR HOMECOMINGS FINANCIAL, LLC (F/K/A HOMECOMINGS FINANCIAL NETWORK, INC.), on the 5th

) day of March, 2007, said mortthe Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, on March 13, 2007, in Deed/Mortgage Book 2007, Page 16517, Elmore County, Alabama Records, said Mortgage having subsequently been transferred and assigned to NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing, by instrument recorded in the aforesaidby given that the undersigned NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing, 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 on the Front Steps of the Elmore County Courthouse, 100 East Conners Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092 in Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on February 15, 2024 during the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: LOT 2, BLOCK A, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OF GRAND OAKS PLAT NO. 1, AS THE SAME

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CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

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THE BELOW LAW FIRM MAY BE HELD TO BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, UNDER FEDERAL LAW. IF SO, ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PUR-

POSE. Rubin Lublin, LLC, Attorney for Mortgagee/Transferee 11 N. Water Street, Suite 10290, Mobile, AL 36602 Telephone Number: (877) 8130992 Case No. SHP-23-059351 rlselaw.com/property-listing

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 3, 10 and 17, 2024 223688

PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed on June 8, 2016 by Calvin A Lake, a married person, originally in favor of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and recorded in RLPY 2016 at Page 26788 the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. LOGS Legal Group LLP, as counsel for Mortgagee or Transferee and under and by virtue of power of sale contained in the said mortgage will, on February 29, 2024, sell at public outcry to the highest bidder at the main entrance of the Elmore County, Alabama, Courthouse in the City of Wetumpka, during the legal hours of sale, the following real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to wit: Commence at an iron pipe marking the NE corner of Section 6, TI8N, RI8E, Elmore County, Alabama; thence S 14°02’52”W, for 2760.04 feet to an iron pin on the South ROW of a county paved road and the point of beginning of the parcel described herein; thence S 6°54’W, 238.69 feet to an iron pin; thence S 00°17E, for 438.39 feet to an iron pin; thence S 89°50’E, for 407.86 feet to an iron pin; thence S 00°12’E, for 571.04 feet to an iron pin; thence along an old fence S 87°49’W, for 427.24 feet; thence N 00°17’W, for 1026.84 feet to an iron pin; thence N 6°54’E, 238.69 feet to an iron pin on the South ROW of said road; thence along South ROW, N 89°43’E, for 20.0 feet to an iron pin and the point of beginning. Said parcel lying and being in the NE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section 6, T18N, R18E, Elmore County, Alabama, and containing 6.00 acres, more or less. For informational purposes only, the property address is: 143 Wildberry Ln, Wetumpka, AL 36092. ANY PROPERTY ADDRESS PROVIDED IS NOT PART OF THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY SOLD HEREIN AND IN THE EVENT OF ANY DISCREPANCY, THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION REFERENCED HEREIN SHALL CONTROL. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. Furthermore, the property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the mortgagee, nor the employees, agents or authorized representative of the mortgagee make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition, including those suggested by Code of Ala. (1975) § 35-4-271, expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars and no/100 funds at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price must be paid inness on the next business day LOGS Legal Group LLP at the address indicated below. LOGS Legal Group LLP reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder, or to reschedule the sale, should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process.

Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and its successors and assigns

Mortgagee or Transferee LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP

10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107/ 23-023134 Attorneys for Mortgagee or Transferee Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 224097 PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made of the terms of the loan documents secured by that certain mortgage executed on May 25, 2004 by Tammi Y. Ellis, in favor of Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., and recorded on June 11, 2004, in Book No. 2004, at Page 42171 in the Of-

Public Notices

g Elmore County, Alabama, and secured indebtedness having been transferred or assigned to Barclays Mortgage Trust 2022-RPL1, Mortgage-Backed Securities, Series 2022-RPL1, by U.S. Bank National Association, as Indenture Trustee ased on April 11, 2023, in Book No. 2023, at Page 14781 of the Barclays Mortgage Trust 2022RPL1, Mortgage-Backed Securities, Series 2022-RPL1, by U.S. Bank National Association, as Indenture Trustee, 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 on February 20, 2024 the following property, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to wit: Lot 7, of the Sagewood Subdivision Plat No. 1, as recorded

Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 12, at Page 46. For informational purposes only, the property address is: 379 Foxdale Road, Millbrook, AL 36054-1555 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 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 amount 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. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. Barclays Mortgage Trust 2022RPL1, Mortgage-Backed Securities, Series 2022-RPL1, by U.S. Bank National Association, as Indenture Trustee Mortgagee/Transferee Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160, Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717

Attorneys for Mortgagee/Transferee 23570 - 37032

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024

224432

PUBLIC NOTICE

FORM OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that Covington Flooring Company, Inc., Contractor, has completed the Contract for Gym Floor Replacement at Holtville High School, 23-157 at 10425 Holtville Road Deatsville, AL 36022 for the State of Alabama and the Elmore County, Deatsville City, Owner(s), and have made reContract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify McKee & Associates, Inc. 631 S. Hull Street, Montgomery, AL 36104

Covington Flooring Company, Inc. 709 1st Ave. N Birmingham, AL 35203

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17, 24 and 31, 2024 COMPLETION PUBLIC NOTICE ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that, Beasley Construction Services, Inc., Contractor, has completed the Contract for Construction of Hohenberg Field. At 401 W. Osceola Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092 for the State of Alabama and the City of Wetumpka and the Elmore County Commission, Owner(s), settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Dalhoff Thomas Design Studio, 6465 Quail Hollow Road, Suite 401, Memphis, TN 38120 in writing.

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 17, 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 COMPLETION PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE.

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Gerald Watkins Jr, originally in favor of Bank of America, N.A., on April

Public Notices

p 30, 2021, said mortgage recordProbate of Elmore County, Alabama, in RLPY Book 2021 and Page 57294; the undersigned Bank of America, N.A., as Mortgagee/Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on February 7, 2024, during the legal hours of sale, all of its rights, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, towit: Lot 18 Block B, according to the plat of Crossgate Lake Plat Number 1, as recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 10, at Page 96 and 96A. Property street address for informational purposes: 138 Lake Bend Dr, Elmore, AL 36025. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) to Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price plus any deed recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law the address indicated below. Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. Bank of America, N.A., (“Transferee”) Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., 2501 20th Place South, Suite 300, Homewood, AL 35223 www.tblaw.com TB File Number: 23-07266

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 17, 24 and 31, 2024 24-00014 PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DAVID ALLEYN ANDERSON, DECEASED. CASE NO. 2023-323 NOTICE OF FILING OF WILL FOR PROBATE TO: DAVID JAMES ANDERSON and HEIDI LEE ANDERSON, WHOSE WHEREABOUTS ARE UNKNOWN AND WHO ARE POSSIBLE NON-RESIDENTS OF THE STATE OF ALABAMA AND WHO ARE NEXT OF KIN OF DAVID ALLEYN ANDERSON, DECEASED: AND TO: ANY OTHER UNKNOWN NEXT OF KIN OF DAVID ALLEYN ANDERSON, DECEASED; AND TO: ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTY YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on December 21, 2023, a certain paper in writing purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of DAVID ALLEYN ANin the Probate Court of Elmore County, Alabama by JOHN MICHAEL KOCH, Petitioner, requesting that such Last Will and Testament be admitted to Probate and Record and that the Petitioner be named as Personal Representative of such Estate. This notice of Filing of Will for Probate is given to you as a next-of-kin of DAVID ALLEYN ANDERSON or as an interested party.

Unless an objection to admission to Probate and Record of such Last Will and Testament is submitted by you in writing to this Court within ten (10) days oftice, the Court will proceed with considering such Petition without further notice to you. Name and Address of Attorney for Petitioner: JOSEPH K. BAMBURG

ATTORNEY AT LAW 4031 US HWY 231 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36093 334-839-5596

JOHN THORNTON JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 3, 10 and 17, 2024 EST/ANDERSON D. PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE.

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Krystle A. Jackson, a married woman, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for Guild Mortgage Company, a California Corporation, on January 17, 2019, said mortgage recorded in the

Public Notices

of Elmore County, Alabama, in the undersigned Guild Mortgage Company LLC, as Mortgagee/ Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on March 14, 2024, during the legal hours of sale, all of its rights, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 20,

dress for informational purpos-

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Public Notices

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

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 the address indicated below. Tifright to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. Guild Mortgage -

Jan. 17, 24 and 31, 2024 24-00045

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SHERRY ARDENE BRINKMAN, DECEASED CASE NO. 2023-330 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to CAROL ANN RATTAN as Executor on the 4th day of January, 2024 by the Honorable John Thornton, Judge of Probate of said County in said State, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are required to present same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

CAROL ANN RATTAN EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF SHERRY ARDENE BRINKMAN, DECEASED. Name and Address of Attorney: Regina B. Edwards, Esq. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, P.C. 109 E. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 EST/BRINKMAN S.

Do you have available jobs? Call 256.277.4219 to let others know about job opportunities at your business.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JANET ANN BROWN, CASE NO: 2024-003 DECEASED NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JANET ANN BROWN, deceased, having been granted to ERNEST L. BAGGETT on January 12, 2024 byJohn 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.

ERNEST L. BAGGETT PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JANET ANN BROWN, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL, JR. LLC PO BOX 638 MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334285-9444 Jerry@GADanielLaw. com

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 17, 24 and 31, 2024 EST/BROWN, J.

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage and security agreement executed by DAVID LEE VELTJES, JR. and ASHLEY WALKER VELTJES A/K/A ASHLEY PENDLEY, a married couple, on the 19th day of May 2020, to 21ST MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as recorded in RLPY Book 2020, Pagebate Judge of Elmore County, Alabama; 21ST MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as Mortgagee, by reason of such default having declared all of the indebtedness secured by said mortgage and security agreement due and payable and such default continuing, notice is hereby given that, acting under the power of sale contained in said mortgage and security agreement, and as authorized by Section 7-9A-604(a)(2) of the Code of Alabama of 1975 as amended, 21ST MORTGAGE CORPORATION, as Mortgagee, will sell at public outcry, for cash to the highest bidder, in front of the Courthouse door, in the City of Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, during the legal hours of sale on February 14, 2024, the following described real and personal property situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Commence at an iron pin at the NE corner of the W 1/2 of the NE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 of Section 21, T20N, R17E, Elmore County, Alabama; thence South 89 degrees 14 minutes 23 seconds West, along 1/2 section line, 1068.01 feet to an iron pin; thence South 12 degrees 13 minutes 10 seconds West 415.55 feet to an iron pin, said point being the point of beginning; thence South 08 degrees 34 minutes 01 seconds East 495.81 feet to an iron pin in the centerline of Tanner Lane, a county maintained gravel road; thence South 89 degrees 02 minutes 19 seconds West, along the centerline of said road (more or less), 210.40 feet to an iron pin; thence, leaving said road, North 01 degrees 08 minutes 01 seconds West 487.32 feet to an iron pin; thence North 87 degrees 25 minutes 09 seconds East 146.30 feet to the beginning. According to survey done November 4, 2015, by Ronald Burke, Alabama License No. 16670. The above-described property lies in the E 1/2 of the NW 1/4 of the SW 1/4 of Section 21, T20N, R17E, Elmore County, Alabama, and the South 30 feet is subject to ingress/egress & utility easement, Tanner Lane. INCLUDING a security interest in one (1) 2021 Deer Valley manufactured home, Serial No. DVAL12108878AB; together with the hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto attached to and used in connection with the premises herein described. This property will be sold on an “as is, where is” basis, subject to any easements, encum-ed in the mortgage and those contained in the records of the the county where the above-described property is situated. This property will be sold without warranty or recourse, expressed or implied as to title, use and/or enjoyment and will be sold subject to the right of redemption of all parties entitled thereto. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of Said sale will be made subject to any existing Federal Tax Lien, if any, and/or Special Assessments, if any, which might adversely affect the title to the subject property. Said sale will be made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by the above-described mortgage, and the proceeds thereof will be applied as provided by the terms of the said mortgage. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation; contact Margery Oglesby at the phone number shown below prior to attending the sale.

Kristofor D. Sodergren Attorney for 21st Mortgage Corporation ROSEN HARWOOD, P.A. 2200 Jack Warner Pkwy Ste 200 P.O. Box 2727 Tuscaloosa, AL 3540 (205) 344-5000 Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 17, 24 and 31, 2024 54619.821

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARION LEE HORNSBY, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-331 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Es-

tate of MARION LEE HORNSBY, deceased, having been granted to JENNIFER JENNINGS BENNETT on January 5th, 2024 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

JENNIFER JENNINGS BENNETT PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MARION LEE HORNSBY, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: ED PARISH, JR. THE PARISH LAW FIRM PO BOX 52 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36101-0052 323 ADAMS AVE MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36104 334-263-0003

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 EST/HORSBY, M. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LOUISE LONG JONES, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-325 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of LOUISE LONG JONES, deceased, having been granted to ROBERT W. JONES, III on January 9, 2024 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, novice 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. Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: KYLE C. SHIRLEY ROBERT W. JONES, III PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF LOUISE LONG JONES, DECEASED MCDOWELL, FAULK & SHIRLEY, LLC 145 WEST MAIN STREET PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36067 334-365-5924

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 17, 24 and 31, 2024 EST/JONES III PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM ERROL LAW, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-318 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of WILLIAM ERROL LAW, deceased, having been granted to TARVIS R. LAW on December 28, 2023 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred. TARVIS R. LAW PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM ERROL LAW, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: JIM L. DEBARDELABEN ATTORNEY AT LAW POBOX 1136 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-265-9206

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 EST/LAW, W. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BILLY JACK LINDSEY, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-326 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters Testamentary in the Estate of BILLY JACK LINDSEY, deceased, having been granted to BILLY WADE LINDSEY and STEVEN CRAIG LINDSEY on the 5 day of January 2024 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred. BILLY WADE LINDSEY and STEVEN CRAIG LINDSEY CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ESTATE OF BILLY JACK LINDSEY, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Co-Personal Representatives: MICHAEL S. HARPER ATTORNEY AT LAW 213 BARNETT BLVD PO BOX 780608 TALLASSEE, ALABAMA 36078 334-283-6855 Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 EST/LINDSEY B. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: 2021-242 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CAROL MAYRENE SCHRAM, DECEASED. NOTICE OF FILING OF PETITION TO DETERMINE HEIRSHIP

TO: RHONDA JEAN HOUCK BURNEY; MARTHA JEAN ROBERTS KAAPANA BARNES; JOSEPH BYRANT ROBERTS; ESTATE OF LOUISE C. ROBERTS MCDANDEL C/O GLEN A. DAVIS; ESTATE OF LOUISE C. ROBERTS MCDANDEL C/O TERESA CAROL; ESTATE OF LOUISE C. ROBERTS MCDANDEL C/O PAUL DAVIS; ESTATE OF LOUISE C. ROBERTS

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices

MCDANDEL C/O CHERYL DAVIS; ESTATE OF MARK SWEATT C/O LISA DOZIER; ESTATE OF MARK SWEATT C/O BLAKE SWEATT; JOYCE ANNETTE ROBERTS BROCK; WILLIAM TIMOTHY DUKE; TINA RENEE DUKE MONEY; JIM CHRISTOPHER MERCER; BRIAN L. FERNALD; TAWNI J. FERNALD MATCHETT; SUZANNE A. FERNALD; FRED LEON FERNALD JR.; AND, JAMES CALDERONE AND ANY OTHER UNKNOWN INDIVIDUALS OR INTERESTED PARTIES THAT MIGHT HAVE AN INTEREST IN THE ESTATE OF CAROL MAYRENE SCHRAM, DECEASED. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 2nd day of August, 2023, a Petition to Determine Heirship regarding the Estate of Carol Mayrene Schram was Petitioner, Garry S. McAnnally, requesting that a determination the heirs of the Estate of Caroling of the Petition to Determine Heirship is given to you as an interested party to the Estate of Carol Mayrene Schram. that said petition is set for hear-ary, 2024 at 10:00 o’clock a.m.

E. Commerce Street, Wetump-pose of hearing of said petition and the taking of testimony in support thereof. Any person interested in this matter should herein referenced date, time, and location.

JOHN THORNTON JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Name and Address of Attorney for Petitioner:

D. Jason Britt Stone & Britt, LLC

Attorneys & Counselors at Law

114 South Main Street

Wetumpka Herald: EST/SCHRAM, C.

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

Letters of Administration over the Estate of JEFFREY TODD STRINGER, deceased, having been granted to DANA FULLER STRINGER, on the 3rd day of January 2024 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said Estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

DANA FULLER STRINGER, ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF JEFFREY TODD STRINGER Regina B. Edwards, Esq.

The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, P.C.

Attorney for Administrator 109 E. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 514-1011 Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024 EST/STRINGER, J.

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS C. THORNELL, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024-002 NOTICE OF FILING OF WILL AND PETITION FOR PROBATE

TO: BEN SEAGROVES, PAUL LONNIE WILKERSON, AND ALL HEIRS AND NEXT OF KIN OF THOMAS C. THORNELL, DECEASED: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 9th day of January 2024, a certain paper in writing purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of THOMAS C. THORNELL, deceased, andbate Court of Elmore County, Alabama by Petitioner, ANGELIA WILSON, requesting that such Last Will and Testament be admitted to Probate and that the Petitioner be named as Personal Representative of such Estate. This Notice of Filing of Will for Probate is given to you as an heir at law and next of kin of THOMAS C. THORNELL. Unless an objection to admission to Probate of such Last Will and Testament is submitted by you in writing to this Court withincation of this notice, the Court will proceed with considering such Petition.

JOHN THORNTON

JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Name and Address of Attorney for Petitioner:

REGINA B. EDWARDS, ESQ. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, PC 109 East Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 17, 24 and 31, 2024 EST/THORNELL T.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SHARON MICHELLE TOWNE, DECEASED CASE NO. 2023-327 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to MASON CHRISTIAN TOWNE as Personal Representative on the 28 day of December 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. MASON CHRISTIAN TOWNE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF SHARON MICHELLE TOWNE, DECEASED. Name and Address of Attorney: Regina B. Edwards, Esq. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, P.C. 109 E. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 10, 17 and 24, 2024

EST/TOWNE S. PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain Mortgage executed by Anthony D. Haynes,a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), (solely as nominee for Lender, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, and Lender’s successors and assigns), dated the 14th day of October, 2016, which Mortgage was recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, having been transferred and assigned by Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), (solely as nominee for Lender, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, and Lender’s successors and assigns) to Alabama Housing Finance Authority by virtue of that certain Assignment of Mortgage

Alabama Housing Finance Authority as Assignee of said Mortgage will, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said Mortgage, sell at auction to the highest bidder for cash before the main entrance of the Elmore County Courthouse in during the legal hours of sale on February 21, 2024, the real property described in said Mortgage, which said description is hereby referred to and made a part hereof, said property being situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit:

No. 11, as said map appears of

Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumexist 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.pose of realizing the mortgage debt, together with all expenses of the sale, including a reasonable attorney’s fee.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain Mortgage executed by Tanya Renee Hooks in favor of First Community Bank of Central Alabama, on May 6, 2021, said mortgage recorded May 7, 2021, in the of Elmore County, Alabama, and, pursuant to the laws of the State of Alabama, the undersigned First Community Bank of Central Alabama, under and by virtue of the power of sale provision and other terms contained in said Mortgage, elects to declare the entire indebtedness secured by said Mortgage due and payable, and will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder, for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse of Elmore County, Alabama, at 100 E Commerce Street, Wethe legal hours of sale on February 7, 2024, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit:

2, as the same appears of re-

Said foreclosure sale and con-

veyance incident thereto are subject to the legal rights of any existing federal tax liens, mortgages, special assessments, easements, restrictions, and reservations appearing of re-

Public Notices

ppy

“as is, where is” basis, subject to any easements, encumbrances, reservations and exceptions or those contained in the reof Probate of the county where the above-described property is situated. This property will be sold without warranty or recourse, expressed or implied as 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. Said sale will be made for the purpose of paying said indebtedness and the expenses incident to this sale, including a reasonable attorney’s fee, and the other purposes set out in said mortgage. The sale will betion that the sale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcytion and audit of the status of the loan with the Mortgagee. Holder of said Mortgage Goodman G. Ledyard -

Attorneys for Mortgagee Mobile, Alabama 36616 (251) 338-1300

Wetumpka Herald:

FC/LACY

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF: AUSTIN COOMBS ROSEMARIE COOMBS CASE No. JU-2012-411.15

JU-2012-409.15 NOTICE OF PETITION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

TO: SCOTT MICHAEL COOMBS (Father) You are hereby given notice thatAUSTIN COOMBS, born on August 13, 2009, atROSEMARIE COOMBS, born on February 01, 2008, at Houstonins, Georgia. You are hereby given noticetitioner’s attorney, Jonathan S. -

January 31, 2024, at 9:00 A.M. at the Elmore County Judicial Complex in Wetumpka, Alabama.

JU-2012-411.15

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF RESOLUTION VACATING A PORTION OF AN UNNAMED ROAD IN ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Public Notices

g

Probate Elmore County, Alabama. In accordance with Alabama law, proponents and opponents to the proposed vacation were given the opportunity to speak on the issue.

Following the public hearing, the Elmore County Commission found that no entity or person would be cut off from access by the vacation of the subject portion of an unnamed road, but to the contrary, all other entities and persons already have reasonable and convenient access to their properties, and that it is in the best interest of the public that such portion of the subject real property be vacated. By unanimous consent of The Elmore County Commission on this the 8th day of January, 2024, a resolution was passed vacating the above-described portion of an unnamed Road located in Elmore County, Alabama.

Jeffrey J. Courtney Attorney for the Elmore County Commission Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 17, 2024 RESOLUTION PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice to Contractors Federal Aid Project No. STPAA-HSIP-0014(557) ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Sealed bids will be received by the Director of Transportation

FC/HAYNES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell for cash, at an ONLINE public auction on 9th of February, 2024, at 9:00am AT STORAGETREASURES.COM. Please note: THIS AUCTION IS NOT IN PERSON. PLEASE DO NOT SHOW UP TO OUR PHYSICAL LOCATION. ALL AUCTION PARTICIPANTS MUST SIGN UP AND BID ONLINE. Southeast Storage 8416 US-231 Wetumpka, AL 36092

3038: Amy Woodall: 2172 Al, HWY 169, Opelika, Al 36804

Contents: dressers, chairs, boxes, table, head board, home decor

2342: West Poulson: P.O BOX 240022, Eclectic, Al 36024

Contents: tools, couch, tool box,cor

2319: Terrence Alexander: 30 Woodhaven Trail, Wetumpka, AL 36092

Contents: Leather couch, leather love seat

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 17 and 24, 2024 STORAGE AUCTION

Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumexist that help persons avoid or An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said Mortgage, as well The successful bidder must tender a nonrefundable deposit of One Thousand Dollars made payable to Memory MemAccount at the time and place purchase price must be paid in of Memory Memory & Causby,

of Central Alabama reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tenCommunity Bank of Central Alabama 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 is subject to postponement or McDonough Street, Montgom-

First Community Bank of Central Alabama

Wetumpka Herald: FC/HOOKS PUBLIC NOTICE FORECLOSURE NOTICE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness described in and secured by that certain mortgage executed by MARY E. LACY, an unmarried woman, as Mortgagor(s) to Regions Bank, as Mortgagee, dated the 24th day of April, 2007, and recorded in RLPY Book 2007, Page 41212, et seq. of the records in the Court of Elmore County, Alabama; said default continuing, notice is hereby given that the undersigned will, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage sell at public outcry for cash to the highest bidder during legal hours of sale, on the 28th day of February, 2024, in the city of Wetumpka, at the front door of the Court House of Elmore County, Alabama, the following described real property situated in the County of Elmore, State of Alabama, to-wit: Lot 58 of The Crossing at

County, Alabama at Plat Book 16, Pages 47 and 48. Subject to that certain mortgage dated April 24, 2007 and recorded in RLPY Book 2007, Page 41193. This property will be sold on an

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage dated November 7, 2003, executed by Michael W. Scarbrough, a married man, joined by his wife Melissa L. Scarbrough (Michael W. Scarbrough and Michael Wayne is one and the same person), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., solely as nominee for MortgageAmerica, Inc., which mortgage was recorded on November 13, 2003, in RLPY Book 2003, Page 94547, of the mortgage records Probate of Elmore County, Alabama and which mortgage was duly transferred and assigned to MCLP Asset Company, Inc., notice is hereby given that pursuant to law and the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the undersigned will sell at public outcry, to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the North Door entrance to the Elmore County Courthouse at Wetumpka, Alabama, during the legal hours of sale on February 15, 2024, the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: LOT 14 OF REDLAND DOWNS SUBDIVISION NO. 1 AS RECORDED IN THE PROBATE OFFICE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA, IN PLAT BOOK ALL EASEMENTS, RESTRICTIONS, RESERVATIONS, PROVISIONS, COVENANTS, BUILDING SET-BACK LINES AND RIGHTS OF WAY OF RECORD. ALSO ATTACHED TO AND MADE A PART OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED REAL PROPERTY: MFG HOME: MAKE/MODEL FLEETWOOD/470B SERIAL NUMBER GAFL335AB88611 YEAR 2004

This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage as well as expenses of foreclosure. This property will be sold on an “as is, where is” basis, subject to any easements, encumbrances, and exceptions those contained in the records Probate of the County where the above-described property is situated. This property will be sold without warranty or recourse, expressed or implied as to condition, title, use and/or enjoyment and will be sold subject to the right of redemption of all parties entitled thereto. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. The successful bidder must tender full funds at the conclusion of the sale in the form of a or endorsed to Padgett Law Group. No personal checks will be accepted. To this end you outbid the lender and any other not be accepted. Amounts received in excess of the winning bid will be refunded. Padgett Law Group reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidders should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due.

MCLP Asset Company, Inc.

Transferee

Padgett Law Group 4245 Balmoral Drive SW, Suite 101 Huntsville, AL 35801 Attorney for Mortgagee Wetumpka Herald: FC/SCARBROUGH

Pursuant to a proposal by the Elmore County Commission, the said Commission conducted a public hearing on the 8th day of January, 2024 regarding whether or not to vacate a portion of an unnamed road, and is more particularly and accurately described as follows: Said parcel of land lying in NE 1/4 of Section 26, T-20-N, R17-E, Elmore County, Alabama A portion of an unnamed road (20’ R.O.W.) located in the Northeast portions of Lot 4 and Lot 5, Plat of Property of RH Harden, as recorded Plat Book the Judge of Probate Elmore County, Alabama A portion of an unnamed road (20’ R.O.W.) located in the Northeast portion of Lot 6, Plat of Property of RH Harden, as recorded Plat Book 2, at Page

Probate Elmore County, Alabama. A portion of an unnamed road (20’ R.O.W.) located in the Northeast portion of Lot 7, Plat of Property of RH Harden, as recorded Plat Book 2, at Page

Probate Elmore County, Alabama. In accordance with Alabama law, proponents and opponents to the proposed vacation were given the opportunity to speak on the issue.

Following the public hearing, the Elmore County Commission found that no entity or person would be cut off from access by the vacation of the subject portion of an unnamed road, but to the contrary, all other entities and persons already have reasonable and convenient access to their properties, and that it is in the best interest of the public that such portion of the subject real property be vacated. By unanimous consent of The Elmore County Commission on this the 8th day of January, 2024, a resolution was passed vacating the above-described portion of an unnamed Road located in Elmore County, Alabama.

Jeffrey J. Courtney Attorney for the Elmore County Commission

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 17, 2024

RESOLUTION PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF RESOLUTION VACATING A PORTION OF AN UNNAMED ROAD IN ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Pursuant to a proposal by the Elmore County Commission, the said Commission conducted a public hearing on the 8th day of January, 2024 regarding whether or not to vacate a portion of an unnamed road, and is more particularly and accurately described as follows: Said parcel of land lying in NE 1/4 of Section 26, T-20-N, R17-E, Elmore County, Alabama A portion of an unnamed road (20’ R.O.W.) located in the Northeast portions of Lot 4 and Lot 5, Plat of Property of RH Harden, as recorded Plat Book the Judge of Probate Elmore County, Alabama A portion of an unnamed road (20’ R.O.W.) located in the Northeast portion of Lot 6, Plat of Property of RH Harden, as recorded Plat Book 2, at Page Probate Elmore County, Alabama. A portion of an unnamed road (20’ R.O.W.) located in the Northeast portion of Lot 7, Plat of Property of RH Harden, as recorded Plat Book 2, at Page

Plans and Proposals are avail-

and are set forth in the adver-

ny each bid as evidence of good on the decision to award this

sponse to this invitation and will

Transportation Director STPAA-HSIP-0014(557)

ECLECTIC LEASES NEW POLICE VEHICLES

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Police vehicles get used — a lot.

They are almost constantly running, sometimes in pursuit of suspects. After a couple years maintenance costs increase; motor and transmission repairs can cost $5,000 or more.

In the past most small town police departments have financed police vehicles for three to five years.

But the Town of Eclectic has found a way to keep newer police vehicles and basically eliminate maintenance costs beyond oil changes and tires, saving money without ever owning the cars.

Eclectic Mayor Gary Davenport said town staff and police chief Robert Head had been researching various options for the last year, resulting in leasing four Chevrolet Tahoes and two Chevrolet pickups.

“It is a one-year lease program with an option to continue,” Davenport said.

“The overall expense works out to be a lot less. You don’t have any major maintenance. Everything is covered under warranty.”

After a year, the depart-

ment exchanges the vehicles for new ones. The town purchases and installs equipment for lights, radios and the cage in the back for transporting suspects. That equipment will be moved to new vehicles when it arrives.

The payments are $6,000 per truck and $6,500 per Tahoe, or a total lease of

Polar Plunge a chilly success

By HENRY ZIMMER Sports Reporter

Diving into Lake Martin when temperatures are in the 40s is likely no one’s idea of fun. When doing so supports a good cause, people seem to forget about the weather.

Saturday, the Lake Marin Young Professionals hosted their annual Polar Plunge at the beach by Kowaliga Restaurant. With over 60 signups and well over 100 people in attendance, the plunge was a resounding success in terms of raising money for Lake Martin Resource Association and overall attendance.

“We had better weather than we anticipated, which is always better for our plungers,” group president Liz Holland said. “The turnout was really good.”

As the clock struck noon Saturday, plungers dove into the frigid waters of Lake Martin to christen the new year.

Many believe it’s good luck if you go all the way under the water, many do it for the fun times that ensue afterwards.

Food trucks, s’mores vendors, drinks and food were plentiful on the restaurant lawn as plungers tried to warm up by fires.

The plunge featured two waves, as the first were allowed to jump in and jump out while the second wave competed for a cash prize for swimming to a buoy and back the fastest.

The first round of plungers were also encouraged to dress up in costumes. A group of women got together to dress as vintage beers, complete with decorated inner tubes.

One plunger wore a polar bear inspired outfit.

“We had a great amount of people participate in the costume contest as groups, and that is amazing,” Holland

said. “We had a lot of good costumes and groups.”

The winner of the costume contest was Steven Robinson and his family, who all dressed up as the members of Snow White’s Seven Dwarves.

Robinson and his son were the ringleaders of their five younger grandchildren, who even managed to get down the Whistle While We Work tune to stay focused.

“We had three generations,” Robinson said. “We have been planning this for months.”

Last year, Robinson and his son only had one grandchild in tow, and put together a Biblically inspired group costume. The crew was John the Baptist and David.

After winning the grand prize this year, which Robinson swifty donated back to the Young Professionals, the ideas began flowing for how to do even better next time around.

“We are already talking about what we can do next year,” Robinson said. “We want to engage as many people as possible.”

For hours at Kowaliga Restaurant, people draped in towels or their warmest winter jackets enjoyed the company of each other. Holland said yearly people have to be asked to leave when the live music and festivities are over.

Holland saw plenty of new faces on Saturday, which are always a welcome sight. As with Robinson’s family costumes, she is always thinking of how to make the Polar Plunge even bigger and better.

“We love every year that we see new people participating in both the event and plunge for the first time,” Holland said.

$38,000 per year, which is similar in cost to what the town was paying for a purchased vehicle. But the difference is this agreement provides new vehicles each year, eliminating many maintenance issues.

Davenport said the cost was between $10,000 and $20,000 per year on maintenance for police vehicles

beyond oil changes and tires.

“We are saving money all the way around, especially when you figure the maintenance in,” Davenport said.

“When they lease them, they get them with the police package.”

The police package includes extra coolers for the transmission and oil and

a larger radiator.

Last week the vehicles arrived at the Eclectic Police Department. Now, they’ll be fitted with department decals, security film on the windows and proper equipment.

“We can do more than 90% of the installation ourselves,” Davenport said.

“Everything is set up as a plug and play with adjustments. There are a few bolts and screws to back out and reattach.”

A few parts are still needed before the vehicles can be put into service. As for the older cars, they’ll likely be surplused. The current truck used by Head and one of the current Tahoes will be retained by the town. The Tahoe will likely be given to the Eclectic Fire Department.

Davenport said Eclectic is one of the first municipalities in the county to lease police vehicles but the idea of no longer owning them is growing.

“The company we are using has contracts with others in the area,” Davenport said. “I think a lot of law enforcement agencies that have smaller departments will go to this.”

BETSY ILER TPI

ABOVE: Jumpers run into Lake Martin during the annual Polar Plunge benefitting Lake Martin Resource Association.

BOTTOM: Alexander City resident Lola Popov enjoys the water during the Lake Martin Young Professionals Polar Plunge on Saturday.