Wetumpka Herald Jan. 24 2024

Elmore County

‘Black eye on public trust’

By Cliff Williams Staff Writer

High School basketball coach

Former Wetumpka firefighter pleads guilty to child sex abuse and porn

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

District Attorney C.J. Robinson hopes a guilty plea from John Cole Carter settles lots of questions in the public. The prosecutor hopes it is a relief to the 13- and 14-year old victims, their families and the general public as well.

The former City of Wetumpka firefighter,

Carter, 31, of Elmore, entered guilty pleas for five different criminal acts before 19th Circuit Court Judge Joy Booth Monday morning — transmitting

ed 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.”

Chamber holds luncheon welcoming members

By Cliff Williams Staff Writer

2 arrested after gunfire erupts in Millbrook

The Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce held its annual luncheon to install new officers and board members for the first time in a while Thursday.

The COVID-19 pandemic put a hamper on gatherings but the chamber celebrated the successes of business in Wetumpka.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Two vehicles were struck by gunfire and one motorist was injured Monday afternoon in Millbrook. Suspects were quickly identified and taken in custody a short time later.

KEY SKILL TO MOST EVERYTHING IS CUSTOMER SERVICE

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Interactions between people in the marketplace are an everyday occurrence.

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

Millbrook Police Chief

P.K Johnson believes luck played a role in the incident, after he took a look at the scene on

Highway 14 in the area of Old Prattville Road, not only in the quick apprehension of suspects but also because of the

Not again?

Customer service is most often talked about between servers, cashiers and their customers. But Elmore County Technical Center hospitality and tourism instructor Denise Young said it is a universal skill everyone needs.

“Anything you do is customer service based,” Young said. “Whether it is in the hospitality industry or nursing, you are going to interact with people

and need customer service skills. That is the basis for the program.”

cooking

Members of the Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce attend the chamber’s “A Taste of Our Home Town” luncheon. CLIFF WILLIAMS/ THE HERALD

Learning the ins and outs of customer service was one of the reasons Wetumpka High School junior Chania Hudson signed up for the course.

Defendant arrested for second time in month for smuggling drugs into prison

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Police continue investigation, man no longer suspected

“I want to open my own business someday,” Hudson said. “In hospitality we learn a lot about customer service. I think I can use it.”

and how to serve food in a banquet setting. The skills are useful for the hospitality and tourism students as they may work in the lodging industry where food is served.

By Jake Arthur Chief Videographer

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

Students in the hospitality program spend the first semester partnered with new students in culinary. It is spent in the kitchen and dining room where students learn appropriate

The second semester starts with studies in hospitality. Young gets them started quickly, working towards certifications in the hospitality industry. First up is hotel operations. “They will be certified in customer service/guest services,” Young said. “It is good for the hotel industry but anything in

Police were dispatched to the parking lot around 10:45 p.m. for a “shots fired” call. Once there, they found Centell Winston, 42 of Tallassee, dead of a gunshot wound in the driver seat of his vehicle. According to Wetumpka police chief Greg Benton, this was not a random shooting.

“This was not random, not a random 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.

“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

Planning for more classrooms

Staff Report

A Montgomery man was arrested near Elmore Correctional Facility Monday after attempting to smuggle in drugs and other contraband.

The Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals

Glenn Norman, 36, was discovered near the state prison after an Alabama Department of Corrections, after an

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

ADOC officer observed a subject throwing a backpack over the fence of a prison dorm, according to a release. Four backpacks were

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

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.

“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

Building new school facilities is expensive. Just ask Elmore County Schools superintendent Richard Dennis. Over the last couple of years, the Elmore County Board of Education spent $51 million constructing and renovating several facilities across the county. The new Redland Middle School was $23.5 million. There were

the school culture from that of a school struggling with low morale, achievement and attendance to a school that strives for excellence. By collaborating with staff, many of the school’s issues were identified and addressed. Futral’s leadership style of listening, encouraging, supporting, organizing and challenging the staff and students, caused the school culture to

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

See PRINCIPAL, Page A3

WILSON

CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI

Elmore County Schools have basic plans to construct a new Holtville High School.The old building would then be renovated to allow the middle school to move creating needed

Obituaries

BARBARA MYERS DREYER

Barbara Myers Dreyer from Elmore County and resident of Titus, Alabama passed away peacefully in her home on Friday, January 19, 2024. She was the daughter of Robert Lee Myers and Irene Sims Myers and had eight siblings: Bobbie Nell, Mary Jewell, Robert Lee Jr, Billy Ray, Thomas, Marie, Peggy Joyce, and James, all who preceded her in death. Barbara was a beloved “Mama” to two sons, Kenny Lanier and Rusty Lanier and a cherished “Granny” to her four grandchildren: Sarah, Keenan, Dustin and Cody. Sleepovers at Granny’s meant waking up to animal shaped pancakes for breakfast and long summer afternoons fishing on the dock. Granny never tired from being the official judge for endless swimming, diving, and holding your breath contests and filling every available bucket, cup, and plastic container with critters and turtles for closer inspection and amusement. Her decisions were never challenged; not for fear of punishment, but the

Police Reports

WETUMPKA

POLICE DEPARTMENT

JAN. 12

• Harassment was reported on Country Club Drive. JAN. 4

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

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

JAN. 21

• A welfare check was conducted on Freeman Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Little Road.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Panhandling was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

fear of disappointing her was unbearable. Her cheerful demeanor would quickly soothe away any heartache and her optimism was contagious. Barbara was known for her sweet buttery pound cake with the perfectly crusted top and canning preserves and salsa which she would generously share with her neighbors and friends. She took pride in her garden and knew the names and origins of the numerous plants and flowers she acquired throughout the years. Visiting friends and family members would often leave with a cutting or young rooted specimen that Barbara would trust to their care. She loved sitting on her dock and offered an enthusiastic greeting and warm smile to anyone who passed her way.

Barbara served as the founding president of the Lake Jordan Homeowners and Boating Association. She was recognized by Auburn University and Alabama Power Company for organizing several lake clean-up projects and rallying the lake community to participate in holiday events and

reported on Ashurst Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on Stewart Street.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• A missing person was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• Unauthorized use of a vehicle was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• The roadway was reported blocked on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on North Ann Avenue. JAN. 19

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Darnell Road.

• Trespassing was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue. JAN. 20

• Suspicious activity was reported on Barnett Boulevard.

• A noise complaint was reported on Noble Road.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on E.B. Payne Sr. Drive.

• A person with a gun was reported on Macedonia Road.

• A motor vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Central Boulevard.

• Harassment was

• Gunfire was reported on North Ashurst Avenue. JAN. 18

• A fight was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Friendship Road.

• Trespassing was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Loitering was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Loitering was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

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

• Harassment was reported on Second Avenue.

• Trespassing was reported on Ashurst Bar Road.

• Harassment was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A child custody dispute was reported on Wall Street.

• Assistance was given during a medical

Pet of the Week - Raven

boating parades. Barbara initiated the naming and signage of Lake Jordan slews to assist emergency response teams in locating and identifying places of residence. Even though this was a huge undertaking requiring great effort, her determination and persuasive kindness rallied the support needed to get the job done.

Barbara was a devoted wife and companion to her late husband, William “Ed” Dreyer and cherished their many years traveling together and playing golf with friends. She appreciated visits from Ed’s son, Dale Dreyer and stepson, Dennis Dillinger, especially during the recent years since his passing.

All who knew her, loved her, and were inspired by her remarkable southern grace and grit.

Visitation and memorial services will be on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Gassett Funeral Home in Wetumpka, beginning at 1:00 p.m. with Memorial service to follow at 2:00 p.m. Rev. Matt Nixon officiating.

call on Jordan Avenue.

• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Powers Avenue.

• Gunfire was reported on Second Avenue.

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

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

• Identity theft was reported on Dixie Circle.

• A Black female was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• Forgery was reported on South Dubois Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on James Street.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Herd Street. JAN. 16

• A domestic dispute was reported on Charles CC Blalock Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Friendship Road.

• Assistance was given to another agency Outer Drive.

• An animal complaint was reported on Eubanks Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Third Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Highway 229.

• A white female was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A Black female was arrested on South McKenzie Street.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Honeysuckle Lane.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Highway 229.

• An animal complaint was reported on

Seeking diva cat lovers!

Raven is a 2.5-year-old stunningly gorgeous long-haired Calico female cat that is a diva in every way as life is on Raven’s terms. She is rather cat selective but in a home with maybe only one other cat where they can each have their own space should be fine. Raven lets you know when she wants attention and can be very sweet then other times just wants to do her own thing. She is playful but tends to play with all claws and loves to run at you and grab around your leg so no children please.

The Humane Society of Elmore County’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old.

South Tallassee Drive.

• Trespassing was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.

• A welfare check was performed on South Tallassee Drive. JAN. 15

• Menacing was reported on Ashurst Bar Road.

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

• Loitering and panhandling was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• Harassment was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Notasulga Road.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.

• A stolen vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Caldwell Street.

• Trespassing was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Gen. Chappy James Street.

• Animal control was requested on Freeman Avenue.

• A Black female was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• Theft was reported on Freeman Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Outer Drive.

• An animal complaint was reported on Ashurst Bar Road.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Honeysuckle Lane.

• A disorderly subject was reported on John Street.

Cats over 1 can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, deworming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam with your participating veterinarian. If you are interested in meeting Cola or any of the pets at HSEC, the first step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, you will be contacted by someone from the humane society. HSEC is located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. The phone number is 334567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Where to take pets in need

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

Our shelter in Elmore County — the Humane Society of Elmore County — is an open-admission (meaning we take in pets that are friendly, scared, vicious, sick, healthy, old and litter after litter) animal shelter taking in pets from throughout Elmore County, AL.

We cannot take in pets that have bitten (or scratched depending on the situation) a human in the preceding ten days in accordance with Alabama Rabies Laws. We also take in small domestic pets, but not wildlife as we are not a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center. We take in livestock via only Animal Control Officers working abandonment or cruelty cases as we do not have the facilities to take in owner surrendered livestock.

What do we mean from “Elmore County?”

We take in animals found only in or residing in the cities/town and unincorporated areas of Elmore County which is why one of our first questions is where you live or where the animal was found.

Animals found or being surrendered simply have to go to their supporting area shelter.

Proof of residency such as a driver’s license or

document such as a lease/ power bill is required to bring an animal in; this is for legal and safety/health reasons. If someone is missing their pet, they are going to look at their area shelter for one reason. But there are areas that present some confusion. Prattville – animals from the area outside the city limits of Prattville but in Elmore County come to our shelter. Animals from within the city limits of Prattville, no matter if that is in Elmore County, go to the Prattville-Autauga Humane Society.

We accept animals from within the Tallassee City Limits even from the Tallapoosa side. But animals from Tallassee but outside of the city limits on the Tallapoosa or Macon County sides must be dealt with by Tallapoosa or Macon Counties. Deatsville and Marbury addresses morph over the three counties of Elmore, Autauga and Chilton so please know what county you actually live in. All shelters want to help animals but are simply overwhelmed by all the animals from within our own counties so have to have these restrictions for legal, contractual & humane reasons. We will help direct you to your supporting Shelter as needed. If you are in need of animal control assistance it is important that you

call the appropriate animal control officer as these are law enforcement matters. If the animal situation is within the city limits of any of the towns noted below you must call that city. If you are not in the city limits of Millbrook, Tallassee or Eclectic, then call the Elmore County Sheriff’s Dispatch.

Unincorporated County areas: 334-567-5227

Wetumpka: 334-5675227

Coosada: 334-567-5227

Elmore Township: 334567-5227

Millbrook: 334-2856832

Tallassee: 334-283-6586

Eclectic: 334-541-2149

All the animal control organizations noted above bring strays to our Shelter where we work to reunite them and, if not reclaimed after seven days, then work to find them new and responsible homes.

We also take owner surrendered pets from Elmore County residents by appointment – call us at 334-567-3377 to set up that appointment. There are limited times that we may tell an owner that we cannot take their pet immediately but can in a few days because we are simply packed. With the recent frigid temps, we needed to make sure we had room inside our buildings for any strays found and brought to us for

instance. Adoptions are by application (meaning there is an approval process) and appointment and work very well so we can better assist the public and care for our pets.

We do take many calls/ emails/Facebook posts from people wanting to report a situation but who just don’t want to call a law enforcement agency. We must caution that 2nd and 3rd hand reports greatly limit the investigative abilities of law enforcement. If you have witnessed cruelty, abuse or neglect the dispatchers will be keep your identification confidential and that will go a long way to getting faster help for the animal(s) in harm’s way. We can assist ACO’s with cruelty and neglect cases if they need us from the field site all the way through the court case hearings. If we are caring for animals seized under cruelty or neglect charges (or any others that come to us injured or sick) we ensure all necessary veterinary care for the animal’s well-being/recovery and document every facet of their intake & recovery for prosecution, to include all of the costs incurred.

If you do need to contact our shelter you can call us at 334-567-3377, email us at hselco@bellsouth.net or message on our Shelter Facebook page.

Pickleball coming to Crommelin Park

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Pickleball players will have more courts available to them soon in Wetumpka. The Wetumpka City Council approved at its Tuesday meeting the fencing and resurfacing of tennis courts at Crommelin Park to accommodate

pickleball. Work should begin almost immediately.

“The fencing company is just waiting for the approval to start,” Wetumpka Public Works director Chappell Brown said. “Hellas is doing the resurfacing. They are about two to three weeks out for scheduling. Weather will also play a factor. It needs to be somewhat

warm.”

The council meeting is normally scheduled for Mondays but was held Tuesday as Monday was a holiday.

IN OTHER ACTION THE WETUMPKA CITY COUNCIL:

• Approved minutes of the Jan. 2 meeting.

• Reappointed Theresa Crum to the Wetumpka

3 prisoners granted parole for Elmore County crimes

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Three prisoners convicted in Elmore County courts are getting parole. Two other prisoners convicted in Elmore County are not.

Tracy B. Jones, Matthew Truesdal McDonald and Lee McBryde were part of 14 prisoners granted parole during hearings on Jan. 16-17 with Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles. The parole board held hearings for 49 state prisoners. Charleston George will stay in prison for a first-degree rape conviction. Angela Riddle will remain in Tutwiler Prison for an Elmore County conviction for possession of a controlled substance.

Jones and McDonald were serving time in the Alabama Department of Corrections Pre-Therapeutic Community Program. Jones was approximately seven months into a 54-month prison sentence after a July 2023 guilty plea to third-degree theft in Elmore County.

McDonald was 11 months into a 60-month prison sentence after pleading guilty to distribution of a controlled substance in Elmore County. McBryde

was 11 months into a 54-month sentence for a 2023 Elmore County conviction for possession of a controlled substance.

According to the ADOC, the Pre-Therapeutic Community Program helps inmates with addiction issues. It uses a 12 step plan. The program also gives participants information about jobs and careers, communication and character development, health education, family reintegration and how encounters with law enforcement should happen.

Jones and McDonald were granted a conditional parole contingent they complete the Perry County Probation/Parole Reentry Education Program, according to minutes from the parole hearing.

ADOC noted Jones had a previous conviction for third-degree theft.

McDonald has previous convictions of possession of a controlled substance in 2019 and 2021, according to court records.

McBryde is currently housed at the Elmore Correctional Facility. According to minutes of his hearing, in addition to completing the Perry County program, the parole board is requiring McBryde to

wear a GPS ankle monitor and be a part of a Narcotics or Alcoholics Anonymous.

McBryde has previous convictions with prison sentences for obstruction of justice-false identity, second-degree receiving stolen property, possession of a controlled substance and second-degree theft.

Parolees are checked by agents from the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles. Parolees are required to meet their parole officer, pass drug tests and submit to random searches while on parole.

The board denied an early release of George, who is housed at the Elmore Correctional Facility and has served 21 years of a 25-year sentence for a 2003 conviction for first-degree rape. According to hearing minutes, George’s family spoke in favor of his release and the Alabama Attorney General’s Office against it.

Riddle is only six months into a 48-month prison sentence. She has previous convictions for possession of a controlled substance, first-degree possession of marijuana and third-degree burglary.

Public Library board.

• Approved new flooring for restrooms and concession stand at Hohenberg Field.

• Approved the purchase of life safety rope for the Wetumpka Fire Department.

The next meeting of the Wetumpka City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 5.

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

Kenneth

Page A4 • Wednesday, January 24, 2024

The Detroit Lions are one win away from going to the Super Bowl.

Well, that’s a sentence I never thought I’d find myself writing.

Y’all have stuck with me through some awful sports losses, so now I’m excited to celebrate with you what the Lions have done.

In case you’re not an NFL fan, let me give you a little history of the Detroit Lions. The Lions are one of just a handful of teams that have never made a Super Bowl, and the only one in the NFC. Until last week, they hadn’t won a playoff game in more than 30 years and they were the first, and for a long while the only, team to go winless in the league’s history.

Basically, they’re bad.

Like, really bad.

We’ve had spurts of successful players. The Matt Stafford and Calvin Johnson duo of the early 2010s felt so promising, but if you don’t know how that ended — in short, a future guaranteed Hall of Famer in Johnson retired early rather than playing for the Lions.

Obituaries:

(Herald, Observer, Tribune). Obituaries are only accepted via the funeral home in charge of arrangements. We do not accept obituaries from individuals.

Weddings, Engagements, Anniversaries, or Birth

Announcements: These significant family events or milestones are 35 cents per word and $25 for a photo and must be emailed to us at announcements@thewetumpkaherald.com. Include name and telephone number. The text for the announcement must be in the body of the email (not as an attachment) and photographs must be sent as a .jpeg attached to the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Herald or The Tribune.

The shelves go empty everytime there is a mention of snow or ice.

Madness ensues at the mere mention of a winter storm or ‘Bama Winter.

Everyone rushes to the grocery store to purchase bread, milk and maybe eggs. But why?

The results always piled up on the kitchen counter and in the refrigerator.

The shopping list is always the same — a few loaves of bread, a couple gallons of milk and eggs. So often the power is only out for a few hours at most. We return to our regular routines.

We rarely break into our extra inventory.

I for one bought into the frenzy of toilet paper during the COVID-19 pandemic. I just used my last roll of luxurious wiping material late last year from that purchasing spree.

With the most recent cold snap I was reminded yet again of the shopping list. Friends posted photos on social media of empty shelves. They look the same every single time.

Are they the same?

While I was thinking about it, I looked at my counter. I had a loaf of bread. I had creamer for my coffee. I had plenty of

So yeah, we’re like really, really bad.

There’s been times when we’ve been so close. I even have a Lions sweatshirt that says “We almost always almost win.” But that hump has been too high for these cats to climb.

Stafford, I figured most certainly our time was up.

unlikely of ways, the Lions man aged to win. It felt like we won the Super Bowl right then and there.

Until now, that is.

Let’s be honest, too. I was just hoping for one win.

I’m the ultimate sports cynic. When you root for the Washington Capitals, who have been notorious for first-round playoff busts and didn’t win a Stanley Cup until their 44th season, and the Detroit Lions, you know not to expect too much.

round, and all of a sudden the Lions bandwagon is so full, I can barely breathe. Even the announcers, who are notoriously against us, were picking us to win — one of them picked the Lions, 56-13. remember? It’s just the same ole Lions, right.

just like I did in Round 1, but they’ve proven they aren’t going down without a fight. They’ve proven much like the Caps, “It’s OK to believe.” Jump on the bandwagon while you still can; it’s a fun ride.

When the Lions were sitting at 10 wins, I still didn’t believe they’d make the playoffs, much less win. Then when we had to play against the Los Angeles Rams and the former Lion great

managing editor of Tallapoo sa Publishers Inc. She can be reached via email at lizi.gwin@ alexcityoutlook.com or via phone at 434-962-9420.

canned goods. I had enough inventory that if I were to stay in my house and not open the door, I could stay for a week or more and survive. This ‘Bama Winter I stayed away from the stores. I didn’t buy a thing in the frenzy. I noticed many of the reminders leave off sandwich meat and cereal. Milk and bread don’t go together too well. Many will soon forget they bought bread and milk, besides how often do you see them served together?

I’ve never seen a milk sandwich.

I might ask you if I can have a loaf of bread then as I will need some. The stores will have plenty, but why buy when your friends have too much and will share? Another week will go by and we will be wearing sandals and flip flops. In about a week or so, many will open the refrigerator to some awful smells and close it

again. The second ‘Bama Winter will come about Easter. It is then some realize they let their inventory from this week of milk and eggs waste. But they didn’t learn their lesson and will return to the milk frenzy again.

Sometimes I think the weather prognosticators drop hints about storms to add to their story. I sometimes wonder if they get bonuses from bakeries and dairies.

But I know better. They don’t. They, like everyone else, see an impending storm coming and start to prepare. They want us to prepare too.

It’s time we learn to prepare before the warning of a storm. We have folks at EMA who tell us to have water and supplies on hand for up to three days at all times.

It’s not hard. The items are likely in everyone’s homes already. We just need to invest a little time, create lists and be ready to execute a plan. I look forward to seeing everyone living out their lives again next week.

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

new roofs and new HVAC systems put in among other improvements.

“Our money went a long way,” Dennis said.

“That was all before COVID.”

Prices have now gone up dramatically. Between increased costs and lack of funding, staff at Elmore County Schools are trying to figure how to make the next round of big projects happen.

It all starts with a capital plan required by the Alabama State Department of Education. It lists major projects a school system wants to do, when and

potential funding sources. The list is approved by the board of education and begins the groundwork for new construction and major renovations — if and when the funding is found.

Two of the projects at the top of the current list are a new security entrance at Wetumpka Elementary School and a diesel shop at the Elmore County Technical Center. Both projects are receiving $1 million in grant funding from the state and local funds will be used to finish out the funding. It will cost Elmore County about $1.5 million for $3.5 million in projects.

“At the moment we are in a position to do that,”

Dennis said.

Other projects high on the list include a performing arts center at Wetumpka High School. Dennis current estimates place its cost between $5 and $10 million.

“Without a funding source, we can’t do it right now,” Dennis said. “To do it now we need a benefactor.”

Projects for Elmore County students have been funded by benefactors in recent years. The City of Wetumpka constructed the Wetumpka Sports Complex from city funds. Students are able to use the facility.

In Millbrook, 17

Springs is under construction thanks to funding from the City of Millbrook, the Elmore County Commission and property from Grandview YMCA.

The project allowed the creation of a tennis team at Stanhope Elmore and soon the football, softball and track teams will join soccer and tennis at the complex. Again, at no financial cost to the school board.

“It’s hard to say no in those instances,” Dennis said.

SMUGGLING

Continued from A1

The changing of lights at football fields at Holtville and Elmore County high schools and on baseball fields at all the county high schools to new LED lighting is already underway. The move should save the school system money on maintenance and utility bills.

Continued replacement of HVAC systems needs to be done to stay on a cycle of replacing units 10 years old or older. The process avoids costly repairs and puts more energy-efficient AC units in place.

The capital plan includes new athletic facilities at the high schools, additions to child development centers, additions to all the schools and a new bus shop for all county buses.

The biggest items on the list are new buildings for Elmore County and Holtville high schools.

In the case of Holtville, the old building will be preserved.

“It is on the historic register,” Dennis said.

Plans are to renovate it to accommodate a growing middle school student population in the Holtville

found by ADOC officials Monday morning containing a variety of controlled substances, cell phones, weapons, lock-picking and rekeying kits and assorted tobacco products.

area. In Eclectic, a new high school would be built in phases on the current campus as the oldest parts of the building are torn down.

The plan puts estimates for a new school in Eclectic and Holtville at $50 million each.

“The costs are hard to fathom,” Dennis said. “These estimates are likely to be under when you look at other new schools across the state under construction. The new high school in Alex City is something like $93 million.”

Dennis said while the amount collected for each mil of property tax is going up, it doesn’t amount to more funding for Elmore County Schools. The 10 mils collected is used to match funds from the state foundation plan. It is money Dennis said goes mostly to salaries, operating and recurring costs.

The superintendent gave an example of how the match with the state works.

“Let's say the state gives us $75 million to operate the system outside of facil-

a red Kia Soul that fled a traffic stop.

“After a short vehicle pursuit, the vehicle collided with a tree,” an incident report stated. “The subject fled on foot into a wooded area.”

ities,” Dennis said. “If we get $10 million in 10 mils of property tax collection, we get $65 million from the state. If we get $12 million, we get $63 million from the state.”

The system pinches pennies where it can. It uses technology to save on utilities. It consolidates operations when possible if it saves money. Dennis said the tech center is a great example of this and being able to offer far more programs than if each high school had their own career tech centers.

The funding issue means large projects such as new schools are hard to get started unless there is an increase in funding locally or appropriations from the state.

“We never see the increase in property tax unless it gets above 10 mils,” Dennis said. “If we are talking about projects like Holtville High School, Elmore County High School and a Redland Middle School addition, we are talking about additional funding or waiting until we pay down debt.”

Norman was transported to the Elmore County Jail where no bond has been established.

It is not Norman’s first arrest on similar charges. According to court documents, on. Dec. 28, Norman was arrested near Bullock Correctional Facility in Union Springs after a similar incident.

There, ADOC officers observed

ARRESTED

Continued from A1

large amounts of traffic at the time.

“We are extremely fortunate that no one else was injured or killed during this incident,” Johnson said. “There was a ridiculous amount of rounds fired during this incident, which would leave a reasonable person no doubt what the offenders intentions were.”

It all started when the Millbrook Police Department received calls of multiple shots fired.

“Officers discovered two vehicles which were reported to have been traveling west on Highway 14,” Johnson said. “They had been struck multiple times. One of

GUILTY

Continued from A1

The vehicle was determined to be stolen and ADOC K-9 units began to search and found Junquincy Thompson hiding in a shed. Thompson told law enforcement he had dropped off two others near the prison.

An ALEA Aviation Unit aided in finding Norman and Jamari Coleman. The K-9 units found several packages wrapped in tape that contained 28 cellphones, 17 charging blocks, seven wireless earbuds,

the occupants had been struck at least once by gunfire.”

Johnson said the victim was a Prattville resident and was shot in the lower abdomen area. The victim was transported to an area hospital for nonlife threatening injuries.

Witnesses provided law enforcement with descriptions of a suspect vehicle. Officers with the Prattville Police Department stopped the vehicle on Highway 14 and Interstate 65 a short time later. Korde’z T. Ervin, 24, and Latrell R. White, 22, both of Selma were taken into custody. They were later charged with discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle. More charges are possible. Johnson believes the incident wasn’t random.

“Apparently the

obscene material, possession of child porngraphy, second-degree

electronic solicitation of a

and enticing a child for immoral purposes.

“The misinformation on this case has been more so than we normally have,” Robinson said. “It is not all that uncommon when you have someone who works in public service, like a firefighter [charged with a crime]. There is a public trust there because those types of people are looking out for us.”

Charges of facilitating travel for child sex, transmitting obscene material to a child, one count of electronic solicitation of a child and a count of enticing a child were dropped as part of a plea agreement.

Assistant district attorney Brittney Pinon proffered what prosecutors expected evidence to show if the case went to trial this week.

three wired earbuds, 40 USB cords, two footballs, three bottles containing alcohol, a deck of playing cards, a phone tool kit, a pair of Timberland boots, a pair of Nike shoes, 212 rolling paper packs, 104 Black and Mild cigars, two toboggans, a safety vest, a bottle of lemon juice, a pocket knife, 1,137 grams of green leafy substance, 122 grams of yellowish substance, 462 grams of white powder substance and 25 suboxone strips. The three individuals were placed in the Bullock County Jail. Norman posted an $8,000 bond and was released. After Monday’s incident, a motion to revoke his bond in Bullock County has been filed.

offenders, the gunshot victim and the passenger in his vehicle, who was uninjured, are acquaintances,” Johnson said. “They are allegedly at odds with each other with regard to an ongoing dispute.”

One of the victims isn’t being cooperative with investigators according to Johnson.

“We have more than one victim and there is a lot of evidence to be processed moving forward,” Johnson said.

The investigation determined Ervin and White were observed around businesses in the area of Fairview Avenue and Old Farm Lane prior to being taken into custody.

Law enforcement searched the area and found several weapons

She said Carter was in contact with two victims for the first six months of 2023 via phone, text and video. One victim even traveled to a Wetumpka Fire Department station and a family business.

“They would grind upon one another and kiss,” Pinon told Booth.

This accounts for the second-degree sex abuse based on the victim’s age.

While the two victims were having a sleepover, Carter asked them to film sex acts in the shower.

“They would transmit those videos to him,” Pinon said. “There are videos of Mr. Carter in the shower video chatting with the 14-year-old where he is fully nude. He is masterbating on the phone with her for quite some time.”

Pinon said Carter asked about the victims fantasies to which one replied to have sex with a married man.

“Carter responded, ‘‘I can help check that off the list,’” Pinon said. Carter also encouraged the vic -

thrown into a dumpster. Johnson said those guns were impounded as possible evidence in the incident.

As of Tuesday morning Ervin and White were in the Elmore County Jail awaiting a judge to set bond.

Johnson credited the quick apprehension to a cooperative effort of neighboring law enforcement agencies including the Prattville Police Department and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and other motorists. One witness included an off duty law enforcement officer.

“[They] provided an accurate description of the offender’s vehicle and kept us updated on their direction of travel and location,” Johnson said.

tims to start planning a future together, messaging they would be a couple when they turned 18. Carter resigned as a Wetumpka firefighter at the time of his arrest. The investigation into Carter started when a victim’s father reported issues to the Wetumpka Police Department. Wetumpka police chief Greg Benton said the investigation started in June when the father of a child under 16 came and made a statement to investigators resulting in Carter’s June arrest. Benton said the investigation revealed Carter used Snapchat to send messages to a child under the age of 16. Robinson said he doesn’t expect the sentence to be at the maximum but does expect it to be more than the minimum 20 years. Either way it will be difficult.

“Sentencing will be a hard day,” Robinson said. “It will be a black eye on everybody. This is a black eye on public trust.”

Elmore County was a center for the arts

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Almost a century ago, a Wetumpka native helped bring the arts world to the Coosa River and Elmore County.

Kelly Fitzpatrick returned from World War I and founded the Dixie Art Colony (DAC) in 1933. He was wounded in the Aisne-Marne Offensive in 1918 and awarded the Presidential Wound Certificate, which later became the Purple Heart.

“He was one of the few survivors,” DAC founder and director Mark Harris said.

“He had injuries and sharpnel to his face, neck and chest. It changed his outlook on life.”

Harris spoke at the DAC Foundation Lunch and Learn event on Tuesday. He said Fitzpatrick, born in 1888, followed inspiration to become an artist that started when he was 4-years old with the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. His parents lost him twice in the crowds.

“Both times they found him in the art exhibit staring at the walls,” Harris said.

The interest in art continued as he studied at the Art Institute of Chicago in 1912 before enlisting in the military. Fitzpatrick later studied at the Academie Julian in Paris. Art studies continued in Europe as Fitzpatrick was in the Army. He received a pass to go to Paris for the weekend, but didn’t have appropriate attire for such an outing.

“He borrowed clothes from fellow soldiers,” Harris said. “They put together an outfit for him to wear so he could spend the weekend in Paris.” Fitzpatrick painted during his military service in Europe and returned home after the war.

Harris said little is known about the artist from his injury until he started to surface in the community in about 1930 when Fitzpatrick joined the efforts of the Morningview Painters to help form the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts.

“The DAC was an arm of the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and the associated Montgomery Museum School,” Harris said. “There were artists associated with the colony that were instructors at the school.”

The first DAC was held in 1933 at Camp Dixie at Cherokee Bluffs on Lake Martin. The location gave its name to the colony.

It moved around for a couple years before settling at

hospitality.”

Noble’s Ferry on the Deatsville side of Lake Jordan in 1937. It was a permanent location for the DAC with outings to Jasmine Hill.

“The colony consisted of a series of cabins and a lodge that was later converted into a private residence,” Harris said. “The kitchen was located in the lodge, a two-story frame structure perched on a hill overlooking the lake.”

Portions of the main lodge still exist today.

The last few years of the colony were held near Mobile and the Gulf Coast. But in nearly two decades, the colony was associated with many Southern artists, including Fitzpatrick, whose name is seen all around Wetumpka.

The artists associated with the colony are linked to the beginnings of art museums across the Southeast.

Fitzpatrick’s art can be seen in several places in Elmore County. The Kelly in Wetumpka has a small collection of Fitzpatrick’s.

Fitzpatrick’s paintings of the jug factory in the Redland community and other industries of the time were used by the federal government in the Work Progress Administration (WPA). Fitzpatrick’s artwork was used in post offices in Ozark and Phenix City.

Harris and the DAC Foundation have the largest collection with many of Harris’ works and memorabilia. The collection also includes works of other DAC artists such as Arthur Stewart. He was 18 when he started to study art with Fitzpatrick. Stewart completed murals commissioned by the Blount family in Tallassee after Fitzpatrick’s death in 1953. They were for the Bank of Tallassee. One was about 80% complete; the others were still in sketch form.

“Roberts Blount was a big philanthropist,” Harris said. “He loved art and supported the community. He founded the Bank of Tallassee.” Harris said given Fitzpatrick’s lineage to prior Alabama governor Benjamin Fitzpatrick and owning property around Elmore County, he had no interest in status.

“At the time of his death, he was working on the Tallassee murals,” Harris said. “His house was falling in around him. He just wanted to paint.”

The DAC Foundation holds regular lunch and learn meetings with more than 30 presentations on the colony ready. The next lunch and learn is planned for Feb. 15.

Students get the credential through the Alabama Community College System, the Innovation Center and Central Alabama Community College.

“They offer lots of courses, probably 20 or more,” Young said. “They have the hotel operations course that falls in line with our curriculum. We are able to use it and it’s free. It’s great to be able to piggyback on a free

Rookie NERDS do well at first competition

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Endless chatter, a little debate and small tools spell disaster in most classrooms. But in the Wetumpka High School science classroom of Dr. Virginia Vilardi, it is welcomed. The veteran teacher sits back and listens. A group of freshman and sophomores on the first-year VEX robotics team were evaluating the pros and cons of redesigning certain elements of its machine after a weekend competition.

“We are going to try to get the spinners to spin faster to launch the balls further,” freshman Jaxon Hutto said. “If that doesn’t work, we may have to cut a part or take it off. We may try different wheels to see if they work better.”

The NERDS most recent competition was at LAMP High School and they did much better than the team before them.

“They did amazing for a first year team, first go around,” Vilardi said. “They are brand new to all of it. This team made it to the quarterfinals the first time out.”

The team finished in the top 10 of 39 schools. It even scored 156 points in one game, tying for second highest point total of the day.

The goal now is to qualify for the state competition. To do so, the students are working on rebuilding parts of the robots, reprogramming them and working on game play.

“We figured out driving it on the field, our strategy isn’t as good as our

new strategy,” Hutto said.

“We decided to make a new strategy.”

One of the strategies is to score more. If the students can improve their robot’s program to run longer autonomously, they will get more points.

“You have to have a good code,” Hutto said.

“The robot has to drive itself. We made it so that it turns and pushes the balls in. Those are very good points.”

It’s time in Vilardi’s classroom that is most helpful. She sits back and lets the students figure out most of the issues. She interjects from time to time when the ideas get a little too far fetched.

“It’s good for them to think for themselves,” Vilardi said. “They are putting to practice what they learn in the classroom.”

Sophomore Nathan Dinh likes the way the team comes up with ideas. They put them on the board and debate what is better. But he said the team can’t stop one thing.

“Practice is the most

important thing for us,” Dinh said. “If we can get better at driving we can move the objects around better. We have to adapt to the competition.”

VEX robotics is an introduction to several of the STEM teams under the NERDS umbrella. There are BEST Robotics, the GreenPower USA battery powered race team, science fair and more. All of the teams and projects help cement lessons learned in the classroom. They also help build soft skills employers are looking for in job candidates.

Freshman Grayson Brown got involved with the NERDS because he sees a future in engineering the quality of life the career can provide. He is considering mechanical engineering and automation at the moment, but still has a few years to figure it out. Brown already sees some of the advantages of being involved in VEX Robotics.

“I like building random things,” Brown said. “I’m learning about working in a team.”

Caring for Dadeville distributes over

STAFF REPORTS

TPI Staff

The Community Foundation of East Alabama in coordination with the Caring for Dadeville Committee announced a successful collective effort to impact the lives of the victims of the mass shooting that occurred at a birthday party in Dadeville in April 2023.

The Caring for Dadeville Committee successfully raised and distributed a total of $221,326.99, thanks to generous donors in East Alabama and throughout the country.

Every cent of those donations have been directly distributed and delivered to the victims and their families. This triumph of compassion marks the successful completion of the Caring for Dadeville initiative.

The Caring for Dadeville Committee was made up of community leaders from Dadeville, members of the greater Tallapoosa County community, faith leaders from the First Baptist Church of Dadeville and

offer for the students.”

CACC staff will aid in some of the labs for the students this semester. In the past, students have worked with Russell Lands for labs. Young is pleased another local partner has come on board to help too.

“We are collaborating with management at Hampton Inn in Wetumpka,” Young said. “We are trying to incorporate things the students learn in the lab.”

Students will hone skills for the lodging industry, such as turning over rooms and front desk services.

the Community Foundation of East Alabama. The committee met diligently over the months that followed the tragic event to create a strategy for distributing the funds collected in a way that would profoundly impact the victims and their families.

The committee distributed $108,349.61 to cover various expenses, including medical bills, funeral costs and other associated financial burdens resulting from the violent incident. The committee collected claims from victims and distributed funds according to need.

The committee was able to meet many needs of the victims and their families, including the purchase of a handicap accessible van that was presented to a victim and their family. Following the committee’s work to address the victim claims, $112,977.35 remained in the fund.

After careful consideration, the remaining funds have been divided and disbursed to the victims

Young came to the tech center after 22 years in a third grade classroom. Her daughter was in the hospitality program. Young is also certified in Family and Consumer Sciences and switched to the tech center thinking she had a lot to offer students.

“Not every student is college bound,” Young said. “My child is in college but the skills she learned here have helped her in college and helped outside of the classroom. As your children get older and priorities change, you see benefits in things

$200,000

and their families. This resulted in a final lump sum check payment of $3,895.77, which has been provided to the 28 victims and their families, as well as the owner of the dance company where the tragic event occurred.

The Community Foundation of East Alabama is deeply grateful for all the donors and community members who contributed to the success of the Caring for Dadeville Fund and Committee.

As we bring the Caring for Dadeville Committee to a close, we remain committed to fostering a resilient and supportive community. The Community Foundation of East Alabama continues its mission to connect people who care with causes that matter and urges you to seek to serve the needs of our community with compassion and dedication.

For more information about the Community Foundation of East Alabama, please visit www.cfeastalabama. org.

you didn’t when you were younger.”

The program is growing adding to its curriculum sports recreation and entertainment management. The students will learn how to manage concessions and how to manage tournaments and events.

Young believes the students in the program are preparing for good things that are already here and growing.

“Hospitality and tourism is the No. 1 industry in Alabama,” Young said. “There are so many jobs in it that encompass everything.”

CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

Dixie Art Colony Foundation founder and director Mark Harris speaks at Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka. Harris said Kelly Fitzpatrick was part of the founding of several art museums in the Southeast.

CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

The VEX Robotics team at Wetumpka High School looks over one of their two robots after a weekend competition. The process allows for some redesign before their next competition.

Being the beloved community

Greetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge. I hope everyone reading this column is warm and well. We are not supposed to have this kind of cold in central Alabama. At least there is a chance the recent cold spell will diminish the mosquito population when things warm up!

I had the privilege of participating in the Elmore County Civic Improvement League’s celebration of the legacy and witness of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. recently.

The Herald featured a nice article about the event in last week’s paper.

As I shared in my comments that day, I have known about Dr. King most of my life and have studied his writings, teachings, and preaching for two decades. One of the people his Letter from a Bir-

BETHLEHEM

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

CARRVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH

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

REV. JONATHAN YARBORO Columnist

mingham Jail was addressed to was Rev. Dr. Ed Ramage, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Birmingham at that time.

A group of white pastors in the Birmingham area wrote to Dr. King encouraging him to abandon the practices of the Civil Rights Movement in favor of more respectful dialogue and negotiation.

King’s famous letter was written in response to that request. It was addressed, in part, to a white Pres-

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-

byterian Pastor in Birmingham.

What I continue to find in my attention to and studies of the message of Dr. King is empowering and frustrating at the same time. On the one hand, I find his capacity for speaking gospel truth inspiring. On the other, I find resistance to it debilitating.

While his letter was written for and delivered to a group of white clergymen, the message it contains has universal application. Every message Dr. King shared has universal application.

Dr. King spoke at length about God’s beloved community. Dr. King shared God’s intentions of diversity and interdependence at the time of creation and identified them as blessings. Dr. King consistently proclaimed those blessings as

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

intended for all people.

Why do we continue to struggle to be the beloved community God created us to be? I challenge anyone to provide justification for our failure to do so. The truth is that there is no excuse and we all know it.

The simple fact of the matter is that we sometimes do not want to. How do we know this? We need only to look at our own city as an example.

Five years ago, a tornado wreaked havoc on our beloved town. In the days and weeks that followed, our community came together to ensure that those affected received the help they needed. We were the epitome of God’s beloved community. So what happened?

Again, in the case of Wetumpka,

the aftermath and rebuilding following a visit from a tornado ultimately changed the city for the better. Much of the togetherness and interdependence that followed the storm remains. We were the epitome of God’s beloved community.

At the same time, the recent cold snap reminds us that we are not what we could be. We have no shelters for homeless people and rely solely on our churches to assist the poor with high utility bills while we complain about the cold. We hide behind cliches and lame excuses.

Dr. King did not pick on people of privilege. He challenged all children of God of every circumstance, including himself, to simply do better. We all can. We all should. No one can make us do better. We must be willing to do that ourselves.

Jonathan Yarboro

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

Worship With Us

HARMONY

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

Proverbs

Rev.

is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Wetumpka.

Dalton MiDDleton SportS eDitor dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com

Wetumpka boys soccer looks to continue success

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

After one of the best seasons in program history, the Wetumpka boys soccer team is looking to shake up the AHSAA Class 6A brackets.

In 2023, Wetumpka went 17-5 and reached the second round of the playoffs before falling to state runner-up Montgomery Academy.

Now with the majority

of their goal scorers returning up front, the Indians will try to advance past the second round for the first time in program history.

“Our expectation is always to advance to Huntsville and make it to state,” Wetumpka coach

Stephen Horn said. “This year, we stay in the same area so we have to beat Montgomery Academy and Pike Road to make

SOCCER, Page B2

Wetumpka senior Brody Worrell, the 2023 Elmore County Boys Player of the Year, returns after scoring 19 goals and 12 assists. The Indians will try to return back to the playoffs this season.

Wetumpka’s Eldridge falls short in state championship

By DALTON MIDDLETON

Sports Editor

Wetumpka wrestler

Juliana Eldridge saw her freshman season come to a heartbreaking end Friday afternoon.

Fighting a shoulder injury, Eldridge wrestled for the AHSAA Class 6A state championship in the 114-pound weight class at the Birmingham Crossplex. Eldridge, who found herself down 2-0 in the first minute, was defeated by Daphne’s Emily Smith via pin in the first period.

“I’m super proud of her,” Wetumpka coach

Josh Highland said. “To come out as a freshman and battle a shoulder injury all year long.

A lot of kids wouldn’t come back from her injury but she decided she wanted to come back and finish the state tournament. She gave every -

thing she had and I’m proud of her.”

Even as a freshman, Eldridge’s resume is already a mile long in the girls wrestling world of Alabama. As an eighth grader, she competed at 107 and went an impressive 25-0 while winning her first state championship.

This season, she moved up a weight class and finished the year with an 18-3 record and runner-up in her class.

All three of her losses came to Daphne’s Smith, who went 38-0 this season and transferred to Daphne from Nevada before the season.

“She’s a competitor,” Highland said. “She wants to win. Her only three losses come from the same girl and you have to give it to that girl. She’s really good. I was proud of Juliana for just battling back.”

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Led by its senior trio of All-State bowlers, the Stanhope Elmore girls bowling team is looking to make one more run at the state championship.

The Mustangs won their third straight regional championship Friday afternoon to earn another berth in the state championship Feb. 1-2 at Mobile’s Bowlero Bowling Center.

Each of the last two seasons, Stanhope Elmore went into the state championship as the No. 1 seed but came up just short in its championship pursuit. With the state’s top bowler in Alyssa Ward and first-team All-State bowlers Samantha Wilson and Peyton Warner all making one last run, Mustang coach Bridget Wilson is looking to end

this year by capturing that elusive championship.

“This is our three-peat on regionals and it means a lot to us because my daughter (Samantha) is a senior now,” Wilson said. “We’ve been to state every year that she’s been bowling but we’ve come up short on the blue map. We’re grinding for that. We’re after that blue map.”

After Thursday’s traditional rounds, Stanhope earned the No. 1 seed in the baker tournament and needed to win against only No. 8-seed McGill-Toolen to clinch its berth to state.

While it wasn’t the team’s best four matches, the Mustangs still pulled out a sweep and advanced to the semifinals. Stanhope bowled a score of only 138 in the first round, its lowest of the day, and narrowly won the first match. After

that, it got better each match and pulled out a total score win of 626-510. Baker, which scored a 734 in its four matches in the first round, awaited Stanhope in the semifinals. That was when the Mustangs returned to business and made quick work of the Hornets. The Mustangs scored 748, the second-most points of the day by a team, in a 4-0 sweep. The most points by a team in a four-game set was also Stanhope, but this time in the championship against Thompson.

Thompson earned its championship berth by taking down Dothan, 4-0, then beating Oak Mountain 4-2 after trailing 2-0 after the first two matches. That momentum didn’t matter as Stanhope Elmore

REGIONAL STRIKE

Stanhope Elmore boys bowling clinch championship berth

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

For the first time since 2020, the Stanhope Elmore boys bowling team is headed to the state championship.

Competing in the AHSAA Class 6A/7A South Regional hosted at Vestavia Bowl in Birmingham, Stanhope earned the No. 2 seed and clinched a berth in state Feb. 1-2 at Mobile’s Bowlero Bowling Center.

The Stanhope Elmore boys earned the No. 3 seed following Thursday’s traditional matches and faced No. 6 Auburn in the first round. The top four teams advance to the state tournament, so teams must win the first match to advance. Stanhope Elmore topped

Auburn, 4-3 (1,195-1,022), in a baker format.

“It’s a good feeling,” Mustangs coach Kenny Wilson said. “This group of boys started together after the pandemic, and

we’ve always come up short in the first matches. After last year’s loss, they said they were going to go undefeated and they

DALTON MIDDLETON | TPI

Wetumpka’s Juliana Eldridge, left, finished runner-up in the AHSAA Class 6A state championship in the 114-pound weight class.

Elmore’s Peyton Warner bowls in a tournament earlier this season. Warner is one of three seniors trying to win

Stanhope.

Stanhope Elmore freshman bowler Seth Wilson bowled a 648 in three combined traditional games this weekend. He helped lead the Mustangs to their first state championship appearance since 2020.

were going to make it to state. They’ve exceeded what they said they were going to do so hopefully we add to it when we head down to state.”

The game against Auburn almost did not go as planned for the Mustangs.

It was almost another disappointing finish as Auburn took the first three sets of the best-of-seven baker format. The first match was a close one as Auburn edged the Mustangs, 189-180. The next two just featured rough bowling for the Mustangs as they bowled a 130 and a 138 and went down, 3-0, and faced elimination.

Wilson said he was upset when the Mustangs went down 3-0 because he knew his team was better than that. Instantly, they proved him right.

In the fourth match, Stanhope won 194-133 and took the game. That led to a 161133 win in the fifth match then Stanhope scored 202 and 190 in the final two games to secure the reverse sweep.

“They never really got down on themselves like they have in the past,” Wilson said. “They stayed with it and it was just like ‘All right guys, we need to win one.’ After the first one, they came back and started making better shots. We got a few more breaks and they just stuck with it and we cruised.”

That led to a semifinals date with Dothan, and Stanhope Elmore dropped the first match once again — but then bounced back with four straight wins for the second straight match. Stanhope won the match, 4-1 with a total score of 941-849.

Playing for the regional championship against Spain Park, Wilson knew his team faced a tough opponent in the defending state champ and No. 1-ranked team in the state. Unlike the two previous matches, Stanhope won the first match, 180-172.

Spain Park then bounced back and took advantage of two low-scoring rounds for Stanhope (145 and 123) and took a 2-1 lead.

The teams then traded twogame win streaks. Stanhope took matches four and five then Spain Park won the last two to claim the regional championship.

“We went and took the No. 1 team in the state to seven games,” Wilson said. “They proved to themselves that they can bowl against anybody. Now we just have to see what happens next.”

It was a strong two-day tournament altogether for the Stanhope boys. Even in the traditional rounds Thursday, the Mustangs put up great numbers and secured a top seed in the bakers.

The top individual performer was freshman Seth Wilson, son of coaches Kenny and Bridget. In three games, he rolled a total score of 648, second-best of any bowler in the tournament. Ryan Best’s 600 earned him No. 6 in the individual scorers and the five-man team scored 2,771.

“They stayed in control of their emotions and never got down when they had bad breaks,” Wilson said. “They just kept right on going. They’ve embraced being a team.” BOYS

SOCCER Continued from B1

it. But our main focus every year is to beat Stanhope Elmore both times and win the area championship.”

Wetumpka’s Class 6A Area 3 consists of Stanhope Elmore and Sidney Lanier (boys only). Last year, the Indians swept their rival Mustangs with a 2-1 overtime victory and a 7-2 win at home. Their area once again matches up with Area 4, which is MA, Pike Road, Park Crossing and Russell County.

The top two teams from each area make the playoffs, and the winners of the first round play each other in the second round to try to secure a trip to the quarterfinals.

Elmore County’s Payton pins in a hurry

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Tyler Payton is making quick work of his opponents on the mat.

Payton, a freshman wrestler for Elmore County and the No. 1-ranked wrestler in Class 5A’s 150pound class, put together a dominant week on the mats for the Panthers last week.

Wrestling in a trimatch against Auburn and Beauregard then competing in the Bobcat Bash held at Beulah, Payton went 6-0 with six dominant performances.

He earned five pins and one 16-0 tech fall.

For his performance and tournament win, Payton is the Elmore County Player of the Week.

“Tyler had a pretty tough bracket and had to face two guys from Opelika that were some hammers, but he ended up pinning both of them,” coach Mason Thornton said. “He’s been wrestling very well this season. He finished fourth in state last year and has just taken his game to a new level this year.”

Not only did Payton go 6-0, but he did so as dominant and nearly as fast as possible.

In the tri-match, he started his day off with a match against Auburn’s Jordan Zimmerman. That was a quick fall for Payton as he pinned Zimmerman in just 49 seconds.

Up next was Carl Bell from Beauregard, and he was one of the longer matches of the week for Payton. Payton pinned Bell in the second period at the 2:21 mark.

Starting the Bobcat Bash, he pinned his opponent from Childersburg in 26 seconds. Following his technical fall win, he

pinned Opelika’s Trace Gaither, the No. 3 150pound wrestler in 7A, in just 40 seconds.

Three of his matches this weekend were less than 49 seconds, and he has 10 pins this season where his opponent didn’t make it out of the first period.

“Tyler’s speed is unlike anything I’ve seen since I’ve been a coach,” Thornton said. “He’s able to catch guys in bad situations before they even realize it and he can stick those guys pretty quick. His upper body strength is also insane so once he gets those guys trapped, it’s really hard for them to roll out of it.”

Payton is having one of the best seasons of any wrestler in Class 5A.

He is out to a 28-1 overall record and his one loss comes to the No. 1 wrestler in 6A, Cruz Rainwater from Mortimer Jordan. His stellar season comes as no surprise to anyone

who has seen him wrestle the last two seasons.

Payton was an All-County wrestler a year ago as an eighth grader as he racked up a 24-5 overall record and was a state qualifying wrestler.

In the state tournament, he fell in his first match but ended up rebounding by pinning a wrestler in 80 seconds then pulling out an 8-1 decision to reach the third place game. With revenge on his mind, he has come out in the 2023-2024 season with a chip on his shoulder.

That’s shown as 18 of his 28 wins have come via fall, while three more are from technical falls. He’s had only four matches get decided by decision, two of which he won by 10 or more points.

“We know that he’s able to be one of the best wrestlers, and not just in Class 5A,” Thornton said. “He’s seen and beaten a lot of the top guys in the state. We

believe he’s at that ability where he can beat anybody on any given day.”

With just a few weeks left in the season, Payton is looking to cap off his freshman year of high school with a state championship. In the latest Alabama Coaches polls, he is ranked No. 1 in the 150 weight class. He has only faced one other ranked wrestler in Class 5A in Tallassee’s Ethan Jones. In that match, Payton earned an 8-3 decision win.

Holtville hosts youth softball camp

The Holtville high school softball team will be holding a youth softball camp Feb. 3.

The camp will be an all-day event and will feature two sessions. The first session will be for grades K-3 and will go from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

GIRLS Continued from B1

dominated three of the four matches and won by 50 or more points each time. In the single close match, Stanhope trailed until the end but a turkey by Ward in the 10th frame gave the Mustangs the win and the sweep.

“Today, we didn’t lose a single baker,” Wilson said. “I hope that gives them some momentum mental -

“The thing that really needs to happen for us this year is finding an identity on defense,” Horn said. “We have to step up defensively. Our schedule this year is also a lot more difficult. I don’t envision us going 17-5 again, but that’s on purpose. We want to play tough teams and get into a rhythm for the playoffs and get tested.”

Wetumpka’s defense will see a complete makeover this season. The defense was the saving grace last year as the Indians allowed only 37 goals in 22 games and allowed more than two goals only five times.

Most of those players are gone, including multi-year starting goalkeeper Jerry Ingram and defender Ethan Ingram as well as Filipe Batistella who has moved back to Brazil. The defensive MVP Nate Ryan also graduated as

After an hour lunch break, grades 4-6 will camp from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The cost is $40 per camper and campers can register through google form at https://forms.gle/TaNVVChJez4cz4gg8.

The $40 camp fee includes defensive instruction, offensive instruction, a camp t-shirt and admission and recognition at the softball game

ly going forward. I think they saw what they could do today. I’m super proud of our team. We’ve bowled bakers many times and our team can be really good at them. They were dialed in tonight.”

It was an overall dominant weekend for the Mustangs. Starting Thursday, Stanhope Elmore took the No. 1 seed with a five-person score of 2,549. That was nearly 300 pins better than second-place Thompson, which rolled a 2,305.

did midfielder Mark Tessier.

While there are a lot of new faces that will be patrolling the defense, Brody Worrell returns at defensive center mid to help take the load off some of the inexperienced players. Joining Worrell on defense will be players such as Gerardo Ramirez, Emerson Ramirez, Landon Oswald and Rhett Pinkston. Emerson was an honorable mention selection on the All-County team last year.

“We’re still trying to figure out who is perfect for our defense this year,” Horn said. “We’ll have a lot of new players back there including our goalkeepers and we have to be able to fit in. Once we do that, everything else will come together pretty easily.”

Up front, the Indians lost their

versus Charles Henderson on April 12.

The camp will be staffed by Holtville softball players and coaches.

Participants are asked to wear a full softball uniform if possible as well as cleats or tennis shoes.

Along with the uniform, participants will need a glove, bat, helmet and facemask.

In the process, Stanhope’s senior trio were three of the top four individual scorers. Ward topped all bowlers as she rolled a score of 660 in three games, never scoring under 203.

Thompson’s Ella Walker also topped 600 with a score of 621, then Wilson and Warner took third and fourth place in the tournament. Wilson bowled 535, rolling 200 once in her three games while Warner scored 487.

leading scorer to an offseason injury. Junior Angel Martinez, who had 28 goals and 11 assists last year, will not play this year due to a broken leg. In his place is Austin Holley who netted 21 points and 9 assists. Worrell, who was the Elmore County Player of the Year after scoring 19 goals with 12 assists, will also help on the offense.

A few other players who played scoring roles last year return such as Nathan Johnson (4 goals) and Angel Gabriel (3).

“We didn’t really lose much up front, so I’m not really worried about scoring goals as much as I am about the new defensive faces,” Horn said. “I don’t think we’ll have a problem scoring. It’s going to be if we can control the pace of the game and if we can stop them from scoring.”

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Elmore County’s Tyler Payton, right, has a 28-1 overall record this wrestling season. The freshman phenom is the No. 1-ranked wrestler in the 150-pound class in 5A.

Vote for your Fans’ Choice Player of the Week now!

Holtville grad opens injury firm in Montgomery

STAFF REPORTS

TPI Staff

Montgomery has a new lawyer in town as Donnie Riggins, Attorney at Law, LLC, recently hosted his grand opening. Dedicated to serving the community with passion and experience, the firm officially opened its doors to provide legal representation for individuals facing personal injury challenges.

“This has been a dream for over a decade,” Riggins said.

“I spent years practicing for large injury firms in South Alabama and was blessed to move back home in 2019 to plant a flagship office. After falling back in love with the River Region, I knew when the time came that I would not want to start my business anywhere else.” Riggins is a Class of 2009 Holtville graduate and a

Weumpka native. He said representing cases from the River Region holds a special place in his heart.

“I represent people from Mobile to Huntsville, but cases around here definitely hit close to home,” Riggins said. “My entire staff and I are local, and knowing that we are working to make our community safer is something our entire staff takes pride in.”

Riggins and his team focus

on high-stakes litigation against insurance companies, corporations and individuals. While lawsuits are not something any average person is happy about, some are needed.

“It has generally been my experience in life, that if someone does something wrong and receives no punishment — they will just do it again,” Riggins said. “For example, I cannot count the

Elmore County showcases potential in win over Dadeville

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The Elmore County boys basketball season hasn’t gone quite as expected, but head coach Nathan Taylor thinks his team is finally starting to right the ship.

Elmore County beat visiting Dadeville, 68-50, for the Panthers’ Senior Night. The win improves Elmore County’s record to only 3-13, but it also marked the second consecutive win for the Panthers following Friday’s 44-33 defeat of Holtville.

“They’ve just stayed the course,” Taylor said. “Our expectation early in the year was to be this team we had on the floor (Monday). It took us a little longer to get there than expected, but we’re peaking at the right time.”

Taylor has seen his team go hotor-cold when it comes to shooting 3-pointers, but it was certainly on fire from deep Monday night.

The Panthers knocked down 10 total 3-pointers, nearly half of all the made field goals in the game. Those treys came from five different players. Sharpshooter Jaden Eason

hit four 3-pointers, while CJ Wilkes was right behind him with three, all in the fourth quarter.

Cam Brown, Jabari Murphy and Gage Davis all added one deep ball.

“We came into practice yesterday and got a lot of extra shots up,”

Taylor said. “I’ve told them this year to just stay the course and our shots will start falling. That’s exactly what they did.”

While it is always a good night when a team walks out of the gym with a win, Monday's win was even more special for Taylor and his team. It was Senior Night, and all five seniors – Murphy, Wilkes, Brown, Trevor Brown and Jonathan Thames – were honored before the game. Not all five are starters for the Panthers, but each of them got their time to shine in the win.

Every single senior scored at least one field goal in the game.

Murphy had 13 points, Brown had 11, Wilkes had 9 and Trevor Brown and Thames each scored 2 points.

Wilkes, Trevor and Thames’ points all came in the fourth quarter. Trevor had a mid-range jumper

from the right side go through the net while Thames came in and earned an offensive rebound and put back in the final minute for his two points.

“I was so excited for those guys,” Taylor said. “They’ve all worked so hard this year. Things weren’t going well early, but they stuck together and they’ve been rewarded today.”

Wilkes’ nine points came at one of the biggest moments of the game.

Elmore County maintained control the entire second half and never let the game get less than 12 points, and a big reason for that was Wilkes in the fourth quarter. After catching a full court pass in the corner, he shot his first attempt of the night and knocked down a deep 3-pointer.

The next possession, he found himself in the same spot and knocked down the shot again.

After a 3-pointer by Dadeville, he knocked down one final 3-pointer from the exact same spot to keep the lead around 15 points.

“I was fired up for CJ,” Taylor said. “You won’t find a better guy than CJ Wilkes. Nobody deserves that more than he does.”

County commission makes appointment to ECEDA board

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

In a short meeting, the Elmore County Commission took care of its business Monday night.

After a quick work session looking over the agenda for the commis-

sion meeting, it appointed Olivia Venable to the Elmore County Economic Development Authority without discussion. At its Feb. 26 meeting the commission will make two appointments to the Elmore County Department of Human Resources

board. The commission is still seeking applicants interested in serving on the board.

IN OTHER ACTION THE ELMORE COUNTY COMMISSION:

• Approved minutes of the Jan. 8 meeting.

• Approved memorandum of warrants in the amount of $9,117,436.05 for Dec. 23 through Jan.12.

The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 5.

Potential jurors exchange words at the start of Sneed’s trial

By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Reporter

After the death of Mitch Sneed in 2018, his family is now suing Honda for defective safety equipment.

The trial began Monday morning with a detailed jury selection. Attorneys from both sides presented questions to the potential jurors as a means to filter out anyone who might have conflicting interests with this case.

Roughly 50 to 60 potential jurors arrived at the Tallapoosa County Courthouse 9 a.m. Monday morning.

Parker Miller, a personal injury and product liability attorney at Beasly-Allen Law Firm, presented questions on behalf of the plaintiff. Miller’s main focus was eliminating anyone who may have biased feelings about various factors of the case. Because Sneed was involved in a motor vehicle acci-

dent that involved a Honda Accord, Miller asked if there was anyone who worked for Honda, or had other involvement with Honda. Miller also asked if there was anyone who had strong feelings about motor vehicle accidents, and if they felt like a defective safety feature could lead to an accident. This brought up a conversation amongst many potential jurors.

One potential juror said he thinks despite any safety features in the car, the driver of the car that caused the collision is at fault.

Sneed’s family filed a lawsuit against Honda due to an alleged malfunction of the Honda Accord’s Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS). Miller said this technology uses a sensor that is placed at the bottom of the car, and it uses a camera to detect its surroundings. If a car is approaching an object, this technology will first provide the driver with an auditory warning to begin applying brakes. Accord-

ing to Miller, if the car continues accelerating, the CMBS will then apply light braking to assist with slowing the vehicle. Eventually, if the driver does not apply brakes, the CMBS is supposed to stop the vehicle before it crashes into another object, Miller said.

In Sneed’s case, he was at a stop light in his Ford F-150 at the intersection of highways 280 and 63. According to defense attorney Lanier Brown, the driver of the Honda Accord approached Sneed’s stopped vehicle at 71 miles per hour when the CMBS failed, and ultimately resulted in a rear-end collision between the two vehicles.

Several potential jurors felt even if CMBS technology failed, the driver of the Honda Accord is still at fault.

After an analysis of the potential jury and their feelings toward some of the factors involved in this case, the court came to a final decision of who the jury would comprise.

number of drunk drivers I have sued, only to find out their alcohol-related rap sheet is a mile-long.”

Donnie and his team are currently accepting clients with the following type of cases: personal injury claims, car and truck accidents, lawsuits against drunk drivers, slip and fall cases, dog bites, wrongful insurance denial and bad faith claims, wrongful death and workplace injuries.

Millbrook man pleads guilty to manslaughter

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Family of Kendrick T. Williams watched as Thomas Killingsworth admitted Monday morning he was responsible for William's death.

Originally charged with murder in July 2020, Killingsworth, 23, pleaded guilty to manslaughter Monday in front of circuit court Judge Joy Booth. Chief assistant district attorney Mandy Johnson proffered what would be the state’s evidence.

“Mr. Killingsworth did recklessly kill Williams with a firearm,” Johnson said.

The plea agreement is for 15 years of confinement, but Williams’ defense attorney reserved until sentencing on Feb. 22 an argument to split the sentence. If granted, it means Williams will only serve a portion of the 15 years behind prison bars.

The case started on July 11, 2020 when the Millbrook Police Department responded to shots fired on Sharon Lane. Officers found Williams suffering from a gunshot wound and was transported to a Montgomery area hospital. Williams died on July 12, 2020.

Millbrook investigators developed Killingsworth as a suspect and was arrested later in the month.

Caring for Dadeville distributes over $200,000

STAFF REPORTS

TPI Staff

The Community Foundation of East Alabama in coordination with the Caring for Dadeville Committee announced a successful collective effort to impact the lives of the victims of the mass shooting that occurred at a birthday party in Dadeville in April 2023.

The Caring for Dadeville Committee successfully raised and distributed a total of $221,326.99, thanks to generous donors in East Alabama and throughout the country.

Every cent of those donations have been directly distributed and delivered to the victims and their families. This triumph of compassion marks the successful completion of the Caring for Dadeville initiative.

The Caring for Dadeville Committee was made up of community leaders from Dadeville, members of the greater Tallapoosa County community, faith leaders from the First Baptist Church of Dadeville and the Community Foundation of East Alabama. The committee met diligently over the months that followed the tragic event to create a strategy for distributing the funds collected in a way that would profoundly impact the victims and their families.

The committee distributed $108,349.61 to cover various expenses, including medical bills, funeral costs and other associated financial burdens resulting from the violent incident. The committee collected claims from victims and distributed funds according to need.

The committee was able to meet many needs of the victims and their families, including the purchase of a handicap accessible van that was presented to a victim and their family. Following the committee’s work to address the victim claims, $112,977.35 remained in the fund.

After careful consideration, the remaining funds have been divided and disbursed to the victims and their families. This resulted in a final lump sum check payment of $3,895.77, which has been provided to the 28 victims and their families, as well as the owner of the dance company where the tragic event occurred.

The Community Foundation of East Alabama is deeply grateful for all the donors and community members who contributed to the success of the Caring for Dadeville Fund and Committee.

As we bring the Caring for Dadeville Committee to a close, we remain committed to fostering a resilient and supportive community. The Community Foundation of East Alabama continues its mission to connect people who care with causes that matter and urges you to seek to serve the needs of our community with compassion and dedication.

For more information about the Community Foundation of East Alabama, please visit www. cfeastalabama.org.

DALTON MIDDLETON TPI

Elmore County senior Cam Brown drives to the basket against Dadeville. Brown and the Panthers have won back-to-back games for the first time this season.

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CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices

AlaScans

Notices Public Notices

FORECLOSURE

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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

2004, at Page 42171 in the OfElmore 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

The following vehicles will be auctioned off by J&J Towing 3345581595 on 3-1-24.

2013 Chry Town & Country2C4RC18G2DR619869

2008 GMC Sierra- 3GTEK13M68G119702

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 24 and 31, 2024 AV/13 CHRYSLER 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

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE.

Public Notices

gg 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

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 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 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Daniel L. Dean and Mary Hogan Dean, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as Mortgagee, as nominee for Statewide Mortgage, LLC its successors and assigns, on March 2, 2018, said mortgage the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, on March 5, 2018 at Book RLPY 2018, at Page 9507. Freedom Mortgage Corporation, the current holder, 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 Elmore County Courthouse, in Wetumpka, Alabama, on March 27, 2024, during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 26, Block C, according to the Map of Brownstone Plat No. 1, as the same is recorded of of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama in Plat Book 14 at Page 62. More commonly known as: 176 Brownstone Loop, Elmore, AL 36025 This Property will be sold on as “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 part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expense of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender Halliday, Watkins & Mann, P.C. form of a wire transfer, bank or credit union’s cashier’s check, Halliday, Watkins & Mann, P.C. Halliday, Watkins & Mann, P.C. reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. If sale is voided, Mortgagee/Transferee shall return the bid amount to the successful purchaser and the Mortgagee/ Transferee shall not be liable to the purchase for any damages. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the purchaser at the sale shall be only entitled to a return of the deposit and bid amount, if paid. The Mortgagee/ Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit is purchase price against the expenses of sale and indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation.

Freedom Mortgage Corporation (“Transferee”) Halliday, Watkins & Mann, P.C. 244 Inverness Center Drive Birmingham, AL 35242 Phone: (801) 355-2886

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 AL21566

Sell your home in the classifieds call 256.277.4219

PUBLIC NOTICE FORM OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

REQUESTS FOR BIDS WETUMPKA MUNICIPAL AIRPORT WETUMPKA, AL

Sealed bids will be received until 10:00AM on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at the Wetumpka Municipal Airport – Terminal Building located at 1241 AL-14, Elmore, AL 36025 and at said time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for furnishing all labor, materials and equipment and performing all work necessary for: Taxilane Sealcoat Pavement Maintenance at Wetumpka Municipal Airport. Major items of work include: Joint and Crack Repair, Sand Slurry

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.

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 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

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

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that ,Homesouth completed the Contract for RenMiddle School,at 655 Bulldog the State of Alabama and the County of Elmore Owner(s), settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Mckee and Associates, Architect / Engineer

Wetumpka Herald: COMPLETION

the Bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying the license number on the outside of the envelope in which the Proposal is delivered. “A contractor must have a Heavy and Railroad major license or a Heavy and Railroad specialty license to bid as prime for this project.” Bids may be held by the City of Wetumpka for a period not to exceed 90 days from the date of the bid opening for the purpose of evaluating bids prior to award of contract. Award of contract is subject to requirements in the contract documents including, but not limited to, the following Federal provisions:

ances The City of Wetumpka reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any informality or irregularity in the bids received. City of Wetumpka 408 South Main Street P. O. Box 1180 Wetumpka, AL 36092 Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 24, 2024 BIDS PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

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 agree-

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices

gg yg ment 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

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

ADVERTISEMENT AND NOTICE FOR BIDS The Marketplace at 17 Springs

Sealed bids will be received by the Elmore County Commission and City of Millbrook (“Owner”) at 100 E Commerce Street, Suite 200, Wetumpka, AL until 10 AM local time on Wednesday, February 14th for labor, equipment, materials, and any incidentals required to complete the work required under The Marketplace at 17 Springs, Bid Inquiry 2024-PW6 at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read. This bid is intended to comply with the

Public Notices

py Alabama Code Title 39, the Alabama Public Works Law. Bidders shall be required to comply with the provisions of Title 39 of the Alabama Code regardless if the requirement is explicitly detailed in the bid proposal or not.

A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to Elmore County Commission Alabama and City of Millbrook, Alabama in an percent of the amount of the bid, but in no more than $10,000, must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Payment Bonds and evidence of insurance required in the bid documents will be required at the signing of the Contract. Bid Documents may be obtained digitally by submitting the Bid Documentation Request Form to the Engineer. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Engineer. Neither Owner or Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including Addenda if any, obtained from sources other the Engineer. Bid Document Request Form can be acquired digitally by contacting the Engineer at rmedley@sain.com. All other questions related to this bid should be directed to this same email address. Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Engineer or copies thereof. All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code show such evidence by clearly displaying his or her current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered. The Owner reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owner’s judgement, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted. All bidders are advised to carefully read the Instructions to Bidders contained in the Contract Documents, which provisions and requirements are adopted herein by reference.

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 BIDS

PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: DV-2023-900375.00

WILLIAM HUNT VS. MELISSA HARROD, DEFENDANT. NOTICE OF SERVICE BY PUBLICATION TO: MELISSA HARROD, whose whereabouts are unknown; and, Take notice against you in the District Court of Elmore County, Alabama, in case styled, WILLIAM HUNT vs. MELISSA HARROD, Case No., DV-2023-900375.00. You mustplaint on or before fourteen (14) days from the date of the last publication of this Notice or a default judgment will be taken against you. Your answer

County Circuit Clerk, LaKeshia C. Parks, Esq., and Stewart E. Vance, Esq., Attorney for Plaintiffs, 7079 University Court, Montgomery, Alabama 36117. Dated this 17th day of January 2024. Michael Dozier, Circuit Court Clerk, Elmore County, AL Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 24, 31, Feb. 7 and 14, 2024 DV-2023-900375.00 PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EDWARD LEONARD BLAIR, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-011 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of EDWARD LEONARD BLAIR, deceased, having been granted to AARON SCOTT BLAIR on January 19, 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. AARON SCOTT BLAIR ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF EDWARD LEONARD BLAIR, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: D. JASON BRITT STONE & BRITT, LLC ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS AT LAW 114 S MAIN ST P O BOX 967 Wetumpka, Alabama 36092 334-517-6520

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 EST/BLAIR, E. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KATHY LYNN BRANTLEY, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-006 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of KATHY LYNN BRANTLEY, deceased, having been granted to DANIEL J. BRANTLEY on January 19, 2024 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the

Public Notices

yp same to the Court or the same will be barred.

DANIEL J. BRANTLEY

ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF KATHY LYNN BRANTLEY, DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator:

GERALD A. DANIEL. JR. LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL, JR LLC P O BOX 638 MILLBROOK. ALABAMA 36054 334-285-9444

Jerry@GADanielLaw.com

Wetumpka Hearald: Jan. 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024

EST/BRANTLEY, K.

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.

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.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY A. BRYANT, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024- 007 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to WILLIAM R. BRYANT as Executor on the 18 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.

WILLIAM R. BRYANT

EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY A. BRYANT, 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. 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024

EST/BRYANT D.

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JACKIE R. HAMMOCK, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-013 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JACKIE R. HAMMOCK, deceased, having been granted to JANICE HAMMOCK on January 18, 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.

JANICE HAMMOCK PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JACKIE R. HAMMOCK, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative:

Public Notices

p ROBERT B. RENEAU LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS. P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA. ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 EST/HAMMOCK, J.

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

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

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

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

EST/HORSBY M. PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OFCHARLOTTE JEAN IRVINE, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-292 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of CHARLOTTE JEAN IRVINE, deceased, having been granted to MARILYN SPEAKE on January 19, 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.

MARILYN SPEAKE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF CHARLOTTE JEAN IRVINE, DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: MICHAEL A. GRIGGS THE GRIGGS LAW FIRM, LLC P O BOX 780452 TALLASSEE. ALABAMA 36078-0452

334-283-2893

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 EST/IRVINE, C. 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 D. JONES, DECEASED. CASE NO. 2024-008 NOTICE OF FILING OF WILL FOR PROBATE TO: JENNIFER M. JONES, WHOSE WHEREABOUTS ARE UNKNOWN, A NEXT OF KIN OF WILLIAM D. JONES; AND TO: ANY OTHER UNKNOWN NEXT OF KIN OF WILLIAM D. JONES, DECEASED YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on January 16, 2024, a certain paper in writing purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of WILLIAM D. JONES,bate Court of Elmore County, Al-tioner, requesting that such Last Will and Testament be admittedsonal Representative of such Estate. This notice of Filing of as a next-of- kin of WILLIAM D. JONES.

Public Notices

Unless an objection to admissuch Last Will and Testament is submitted by you in writing to this Court within ten (10) days notice, the Court will proceed without further notice to you.

JOHN THORNTON JUDGE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA Name and Address of Attorney

709 AVENUE A

pettey@samfordlaw.com

Wetumpka Herald: EST/JONES, W. 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 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GREGORY WAYNE MOORE, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-289 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of GREGORY WAYNE MOORE, deceased, having been granted to CARMEN KIMBRELL on January 18, 2024 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notices hereby is 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.

CARMEN KIMBRELL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF GREGORY WAYNE MOORE, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for

Personal Representative: KYLE C. SHIRLEY MCDOWELL, FAULK & SHIRLEY, LLC 145 WEST MAIN STREET PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36067 334-365-5924

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 24, 31, Feb. 7, 2024 EST/MOORE G. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PHILLIP WAYNE NIXON, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024-005 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to ELIZABETH SUSAN NIXON BARNER as Personal Representative on the day of 18th day of January 2024, by the Honorable JOHN THORNTON, Judge of Probate

Public Notices

g 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. ELIZABETH SUSAN NIXON BARNER PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF PHILLIP WAYNE NIXON, 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. 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 EST/NIXON, P. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BARBARA J. NOBLES, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024-012 NOTICE OF FILING OF WILL FOR PROBATE TO: LINDA SELF and MARTHA GREENE, NEXT OF KIN OF BARBARA J. NOBLES, WHOSE WHEREABOUTS ARE UNKNOWN; AND TO: ANY OTHER UNKNOWN NEXT OF KIN OF BARBARA J. NOBLES, DECEASED AND TO: ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTY YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on January 17. 2024, a certain paper in writing purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of BARBARA J. NOBLES,bate Court of Elmore County, Alabama by FARRAH D. SPIVEY, 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 BARBARA J. NOBLES 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. JOHN THORNTON JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA Name and Address of Attorney for Petitioner: 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. 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 EST/NOBLES, B. 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 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. Do you have available jobs? Call 256.277.4219 to let others know about job opportunities at your business.

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices

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 LOU-

ISE 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 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 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 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,

Public Notices

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

y 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 conveyance 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

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage dated November 7, 2003, executed by Michael W. Scarbrough, a married man, joined by his wife Melissa L. Scarbrough (Michael W. Scarbrough and Michael Wayne is one and the same person), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., solely as nominee for MortgageAmerica, Inc., which mortgage was recorded on November 13, 2003, in RLPY Book 2003, Page 94547, of the mortgage records 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

Public Notices

Public Notices

FC/HAYNES 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 “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 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

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 Mem-

Account 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 IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF: AUSTIN COOMBS ROSEMARIE COOMBS CASE No. JU-2012-411.15 JU-2012-409.15 NOTICE OF PETITION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS TO: SCOTT MICHAEL COOMBS (Father) You are hereby given notice that

AUSTIN 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

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

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

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240022, Eclectic, Al 36024

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

Contents: Leather couch, leather love seat Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 17 and 24, 2024 STORAGE AUCTION

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ALABAMA ELMORE COUNTY FORECLOSURE NOTICE

WHEREAS, on January 25, 2011, Anrew Reid Smith, III, did execute and deliver to River Bank & Trust a mortgage on certain real estate hereinafter described, which mortgage apthe Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, at Real Property Book 2011, Page 6772, and,

WHEREAS, default has been made in the payment of said Mortgage as provided therein, which default continues at this date making said Mortgage subject to foreclosure. NOW, THEREFORE, three weeks notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell at public outcry for cash, to the highest bidder, in front of the courthouse doors, main entrance, in Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, during the legal hours of sale on February 27, 2024, the real estate being more particularly described as lying and being situated in Elmore County, State of Alabama, to-wit: Boundary survey of a 106.35 acre tract of land located mostly in the West ½ of the SW 1/4 of section 28 and partly in the SE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of section 29, all in T20N, R17E, Elmore County Alabama described as follows: Begin at a fence corner found near the SE corner of the West ½ of the SW 1/4 of said section 28; Thence S 88 deg. 54’ 17” W, 2665.41 Feet to a concrete monument found near the SW corner of the SE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of said section 29; Thence N 0 deg 44’ 10” E, 1339.86 feet to a pipe found at a fence corner; Thence N 1 deg 09’ 04” E, 982.80 feet to an iron pin found; Thence N 90 deg 00’ 00” W, 413.67 feet to an iron pin found on the West edge of a gravel road; Thence N 90 deg 00’ 00” E, 526.51 feet to an iron pin found; Thence S 0 deg 49’ 37” W, 1870.90 feet to the point of beginning. Also, having an access easement along an existing gravel drive beginning at the North line of the SW 1/4 of said section 28 and running along drive to said tract of land. According to survey done by Wayne C. Bates Alabama Reg. #12929, dated October 15, 1997. Also, a survey of a 5.0 acre parcel of land located in the West ½ of the SW 1/4 of section 28, T20N, R17E, Elmore County, Alabama being described as follows: Commence at an iron pin found at a fence corner near the NE corner of the W ½ of the SW 1/4 of said section 28, thence S 0 deg 00 minutes East, 420.00 feet to an iron pin set at the P.O.B.; thence south 0 deg 00 minutes 00 seconds east, 413.67 feet to an iron pin set; thence south 90 deg 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 526.51 feet to an iron pin set; thence North 0 deg 00 minutes 00 seconds West, 413.67 feet to an iron pin set; thence North 90 deg 00 minutes 00 seconds east, 526.51 feet to the P.O.B. Also, having and being subject to an access easement along an existing gravel drive beginning at the North line of the SW 1/4 of said section 28 and crossing said parcel. All according to survey of W.C. Bates, Al. Reg. No. 12929, dated August 13, 1995. This conveyance is made subject to all restrictions, reservations, easements and right-ofway of record affecting the title to the above described property. Said sale and conveyance will also be made subject to the legal rights of existing Federal Tax Liens, and/or Special Assessments, if any, which might adversely affect title to subject property. Such sale will be made as provided in said mortgage for the purpose of paying the debt secured by said mortgage with interest thereon, any amounts required to be paid for taxes, insurance or other charges provided in said mortgage, and the expenses of foreclosure, including a reasonable attorney’s fee. Said property will be sold on an “as is, where is” basis subject to any easements, encumbrances, and exceptions contained in said mortgage and those contained in the records of the where the above-described property is situated. Said 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 hereto. 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. RIVER BANK & TRUST PARNELL & PARNELL, P.A. BY: Charles N. Parnell, III Attorney for Mortgageegomery, Alabama 36102 334/832-4200 Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 FC/SMITH

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell for cash, at an ONLINE public auction on Thursday, February 15th, 2024, at 11:00am 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.

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Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 24 and 31, 2024 STORAGE AUCTION

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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

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

Please run this ad January 24h and January 31st 2024 editions of the Wetumpka Herald. Please let me know if I missed any deadlines or need to make any changes. Thank you.

Transportation Director

STPAA-HSIP-0014(557)

FAMILY BUSINESS

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Even though she thought about it, Brownie Caldwell isn’t going to write Kyle Caldwell out of her will.

The mother and son coached against each other on the basketball court for the first time in their careers Monday night. Kyle, coaching Elmore County, led his Panthers to a 51-17 win over Brownie’s Dadeville Tigers. Both coaches are in their first season of coaching their respective teams, and Monday marked the first time they’ve been on opposite sides of the court after Kyle spent much of his childhood playing for his mother’s teams.

“I’m not going to write him out of my will just because he beat me by 60 points, but I thought about it,” Brownie said with a laugh. “It’s all in good fun. It’s really a neat thing and it doesn’t happen often. I guess that’s what happens when I’m old as dirt and he’s still a young buck.”

When Kyle grew up in the Dadeville community, he was always coached by his mom when he was in youth sports. Brownie taught Kyle how to play basketball in the first place and is one of the reasons why he has been a referee turned basketball coach the last few years.

He remembers specifically how his mom would allow him to score 10 points each game, but once he reached that threshold it turned into a new game for him.

He was no longer allowed to score points, unless it was off a steal. Instead, it was his job to create opportunities for other players who haven’t scored yet and to teach other players on the court how to play the game.

SUBMITTED | TPI

Mother-son Caldwell duo face off for first time

lar season and a second round playoff berth.

Caldwell then led the team to a 10-2 record as a junior and 12-1 record as a senior with a third round playoff appearance. He went on to star at West Alabama where he set numerous records in the Gulf South Conference.

“I’m proud of him and what he’s done not just on the court but also on the football field here,” Brownie said.

He took that lesson to heart, and it’s something he’s instilled in his own players as he has developed in his coaching career.

Brownie even noticed that Monday night.

Elmore County took a hefty 22-0 lead early in the first quarter, and Kyle immediately took out the majority of his starting five and allowed his back ups to take the court and get playing time. Throughout the game, he would run one or two starters back on the court to help teach and lead the younger kids, and Brownie was certainly proud of her son for that.

“That’s a proud momma moment,” Brownie said. “You always want to see your kids be successful, but just being able to coach him and see how he’s instilling the things in his kids that I taught him when I was coaching him is

special. It’s just a really neat moment.”

For mother and son, it was a special moment. But it wasn’t the only family connection on the court. Addie Caldwell, Brownie’s daughter and Kyle’s sister, is on the Dadeville roster.

While she is not a starter, she played significant minutes and took two free-throw attempts in the second half of the game. When the game was over, she walked across the baseline and joked about Kyle being a jerk.

“That’s a different relationship with Addie,” Kyle said. “There’s going to be some smack talking there.”

Despite the lopsided loss, Brownie enjoyed coaching against her son for the first time. She doesn’t often get to see Kyle coach the basketball team because her Dadeville team plays on the same

nights, so seeing what his team was able to accomplish was special.

And it reminded her of the success his football teams have seen as well.

Kyle is also the head football coach and athletic director at Elmore County, and he has helped turn around a program that was dead in the water when he was hired.

Coming off an 0-10 season in 2021, Caldwell has led Elmore County to back-toback playoff seasons and a 15-7 record in two years.

That’s not a surprise to Brownie. She’s seen him turn two programs around now. When Kyle was playing quarterback as a freshman, his Dadeville team went 0-10 in 2007. It was one of the worst seasons in Dadeville history. But instead of giving up, Kyle came back the next year and led his Tigers to a 10-0 regu-

“From a coaching standpoint, he walked into a program and the morale was low so he knew what to do because he had been there. He got his kids to buy into a program, which is what he had to do as a player years ago.” What he’s done twice on the football field is also what he’s trying to do for the Elmore County girls. The program went 3-12 last season and missed the playoffs, and his team is currently 5-9 and has one last area game before postseason play begins.

The Panthers will try to make a push for the playoffs with a regular season game against Holtville and a potential first round matchup with Holtville in the area tournament. And because of what Brownie taught Kyle growing up, they both know his team has the capability to do exactly that.

“She definitely gave me her competitiveness,” Kyle said. “She gave me all of her drive but not only did she give me her will to win, but she just taught me how to play the game. This was a really cool moment and opportunity for us. It’s just pretty cool to have that moment with family out there. It’s something we’re always going to talk about at family gatherings.”

Real Island VFD comes together for covered dish nights

BY ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter

Nothing says community like people coming together bearing food for one another.

Real Island Volunteer Fire Department hosts covered dish socials that are open to the public and held on the third Friday of every month at 6:30 p.m., aside from December, which is held on the second Friday.

Vice president of RIVFD Board of Directors Candace Jones said the department has been doing the covered dish nights for well over 10 years.

“They started them as fundraisers and as a way to bring people together, to get to know each other in the community and to help support building this fire department,” she said.

The department first got started in the 1990s and the training room was added in 2000, which now doubles as a community center. The department receives some funds from the county, but it largely runs on donations as a 501c3 nonprofit.

So, the covered dish night used to have a $3 minimum donation at the door, but most people would donate more. Now the department simply leaves a donation box by the entrance. Jones said the department

couldn’t do what it does without the support of the community and volunteers.

While the covered dish nights still aid in bringing in donations, over the years the covered dish nights have become less of a fundraising effort and more of a fellowship opportunity.

This month’s covered dish night was the chili cook off with “silly prizes and a year of bragging rights” to be won, according to the Facebook post.

The chili cook off traditionally was held in February, but the board decided to hold it a month earlier so next month’s host could have a Mardi Gras themed night for February. Jones said that’s really what it is about — having fun and getting the community involved. While the board members are there to assist, anyone in the community can host one of the covered dish nights. The department has a signup sheet with the designated board member on it.

The board member will help the host get the lay of the land and may help set up and clean up after the event. The host is responsible for the theme, the decorations and the activities of the night.

“Sometimes we just have fellowship; sometimes we have

entertainment; sometimes we have trivia,” Jones said. “It just depends on what people are in the mood for.”

The department has had spring, tailgate and backto-school themes. Then for Christmas time, the board takes over as host for the community.

Jones said the covered dish nights are also a great way to

meet newcomers to the area.

“We have two sign boards, one is at Coosa County Road 2 and Little Steel Bridge Road and then one here in front, so everybody — no matter where they are coming from — can see what day the next covered dish is,” she said.

The department also has an email newsletter and a lot gets done through word of mouth as well. However, it’s not just for community members. Many who come are also the firefighters — sharing the night with their family.

“We miss people if they don’t come,” Jones said. “If we are used to seeing them here, we like to see them back and we try to keep up with them.” For more information, individuals can call 334-857-3233.

Elmore County coach Kyle Caldwell, left, poses with mom and Dadeville coach Brownie Caldwell before Monday’s matchup between the two teams.