Wetumpka Herald March 13 2024

Page 1


Davis wins big in Elmore County election, A7

School CHOOSE to help private schools

Holtville High School basketball coach arrested

Money will now follow some students as they leave public education and enroll in private schools.

A virtual teacher at Elmore County School’s Edge program has been arrested and charged with school employee distributing obscene material to a student.

Elmore County Sheriff Bill Franklin said Emmanuel Andre Wilson II, 32, of Montgomery turned himself into authorities Tuesday afternoon.

More than 12,000 Elmore County students are enrolled in public education in Tallassee City Schools and Elmore County Schools. About 235 students are enrolled at Edge-

Last week Gov. Kay Ivey signed the School CHOOSE Act allowing families of four who make less than $93,000 to create education savings accounts or ESAs. This will give students up to $7,000 per year in public tax money to enroll in a private school.

Wilson was the head basketball coach at Holtville High School and was placed on administrative leave Jan. 13 according to Elmore County Schools superintendent Richard Dennis.

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

wood Academy, a private school, whose headmaster Susan Barner believes the CHOOSE Act and its ESAs will increase enrollment at her school.

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

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

“We are looking forward to this opening the doors to Edgewood that might not otherwise be able to come,” Barner said.

“We are very excited for the

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

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

passage of this. We appreciate all the legislators that worked hard on it.”

Students would pay for the tuition through the ESA up to $7,000 per year. Anything above that would be covered by the students’ parents. It will also allow families who choose to home school to receive $2,000 per student per year

Chamber holds luncheon welcoming members

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.

WETUMPKA BRIDGE

capped at $4,000 per year.

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

What the plan will not allow is students to transfer among public schools.

“The students enrolled in public schools will still go to the school they are zoned for,” Elmore County Schools superintendent Richard Dennis said.

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

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

Meyers appointed to the Elmore County BOE

Bill Meyers heads up the Grandview YMCA in Millbrook. Now he is also a member of the Elmore County Board of Education after he was selected from a pool of five candidates to replace the retiring Col. Dale Bain.

NAMED ONE OF MOST ICONIC IN NATION

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

See CHAMBER, Page A3

national poll from car deal-

Aers has named the Bibb Graves Bridge in Wetumpka as the 31st most iconic bridge in the country.

The list includes the Admiral Clarey Bridge in Hawaii, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Florida, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Mackinac Bridge and the Chicago Skyway Bridge.

The bridge is first on the list in Alabama, with Selma’s Edmund Pettus Bridge second in the state.

Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce director Shellie Whitfield believes the bridge is more than its five arches spanning the Coosa River.

“I think the bridge is iconically Wetumpka,” Whitfield said. “I think the bridge represents everything we feel about this community — the history, the connec-

tivity, the river, the churches. The bridge represents everything that matters in Wetumpka.”

Some tour buses have to go around it and look back to the center of town from the Coosa River Parkway, but there is no wrong direction to cross it.

“Everyone comes to see downtown and thinks it is cute,” Whitfield said. “They also want to see the farmer’s market, the

See BRIDGE, Page A5

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

CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

The Bibb Graves Bridge crosses the Coosa River in Wetumpka. The bridge has been selected as the most iconic in Alabama for commuters and one of the most iconic in the country.

Police continue investigation, man no longer suspected

Meyers has two children who are either a product of the Millbrook schools or currently enrolled in Millbrook schools.

and this is a way to pay my civic rent.”

Meyers has a diversity of knowledge of education through his experiences with his sons.

“I think I know what makes a well rounded student or school because I have two kids that are different from one another,” Meyers said.

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

“I don’t think there is anybody more passionate about our school system than I am, especially the schools of Millbrook area,” Meyers said. “I believe you have to have a strong school system to have a strong community to make your community attractive to people, to keep your home values high, to make it a place with a high quality of life.”

One of Meyers’ sons excelled in AP classes and is currently at UAB. He was in the band and theater programs. The other son is a junior at Stanhope Elmore and is more athletically inclined.

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.

“I think I know what makes a well rounded student or school because I have two kids that are different from one another,” Meyers said.

“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.

Meyers has county schools in a variety of roles as his children grew up from the PTA to athletic and band booster clubs.

Meyers was questioned about his perception of public schools and what he would do differently to change the public perception.

“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

“I think this is the next natural step for me,” Meyers said.

Holtville’s Futral Alabama principal of the year

The Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals

School has returned to normal after banning cellphones at Stanhope Elmore High School.

Students haven’t had access to

cell phones during the school day for almost two full school years.

(AASSP) named Holtville High School principal Kyle Futral the 2022 Alabama High School Principal of the Year. The High School Principal of the Year award was presented to Futral on Friday, Jan. 28 during a schoolwide assembly at Holtville High School. Elmore County Superintendent Richard Dennis was in attendance for the presentation.

The distractions that provide some silence have been exchanged for higher test scores, less discipline issues and more socialization.

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

Cell phone policy leads to school of distinction

problem with distracted students two years ago and he wasn’t alone.

“There is no doubt about it, cell phones are a cancer in schools,” Fuller said. “Teachers came to me

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.

Meyers went to public schools in Vicksburg, Mississippi. His mother was a math teacher and his father was an engineer.

See PRINCIPAL, Page A3

“We do a lot of great things in our schools,” Meyers said. “I think we do a poor job of telling our story. I think if there is one thing we can do is to tell the good that comes out of our schools. It creates more momentum and creates a better perception of our schools in the community.”

Principal Ewell Fuller had a

“My parents taught me as long as you are breathing, you have to pay your civic rent,” Meyers said. “Civic rent is doing something other than your job that gives back to your community. Through church, scouting, civic organization. It is the way I’m raising my kids

Meyers was asked about how he would handle differing opinions if he was selected to serve on the board.

“You got to be able to compromise,” Meyers said. “You have to be able to have

WILSON

Elmore County man denied parole

A man convicted of sex crimes in Elmore County in 1999 will remain behind bars.

Herbert James Reeves, 57, has served 24 years and eight months of a 3-year prison sentence following a conviction for first-degree sexual abuse, first-degree sodomy

Police Reports

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

MARCH 5

• Unlawful breaking and entering and theft was reported on Georgia Road.

March 1

• Theft and forgery was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

• Domestic violence was reported on Highway 170. FEB. 26

• Criminal mischief was reported on Cherry Street.

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

MARCH 10

• Trespassing was reported on Hillcrest Street.

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

• A domestic dispute was reported on Friendship Road.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Zion Street.

• Harassment was reported on Seventh Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

MARCH 9

• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A white male was arrested during a theft call on Gilmer Avenue.

• A child custody dispute was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A civil disturbance was reported on Wall Street.

• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Gunfire was reported on Seventh Street.

• Trespassing was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Friendship Avenue.

and first-degree rape. According to court records, Reeves was originally arrested in 1998 and convicted the following year. According to Feb. 29 parole hearing minutes from the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and

• Shooting into an unoccupied vehicle was reported on Cherokee Trail.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Whiteoak Lane.

MARCH 8

• A Black female was arrested on Freeman Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Noble Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Notasulga Road.

• A Black male was arrested on Freeman Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A white female was arrested on Freeman Avenue during a disorderly conduct call.

• A motor vehicle accident with no injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Reckless driving was reported on Highway 229.

• A child custody dispute was reported on Power Aven ue.

• Suspicious activity was reported on West Butler Street.

• An arrest was made on Barnett Boulevard. MARCH 7

• Suspicious activity was r eported on Ashurst Bar Road.

• A juvenile complaint was reported on Evergreen Street.

• Gunfire was reported on Third Avenue.

• An arrest was made on Barnett Boulevard.

• An arrest was made during a theft call on Pemberton Road.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Thelma Drive.

• Assistance was given to another agency on East Patton Street.

• A white female was arrested on U.S.

Parole, two of Reeves’ family members spoke in favor of early release. A victim advocacy group spoke against Reeves’ release. Ultimately the board voted for Reeves to remain in state prison. His next chance for a parole hearing is in 2029. Reeves is currently incarcerated at Easterling Correctional Center.

Highway 231.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on North Ann Avenue.

• A suspicious person was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• An abandoned vehicle was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• A domestic dispute was reported on South Tallassee Drive. MARCH 6

• A noise complaint was reported on Third Avenue.

• A domestic incident was reported on Second Avenue.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Central Boulevard

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

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Eubanks Street.

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

• A welfare check was conducted on Third Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Rickey Lane. March 5

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Jordan Avenue.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Central Boulevard.

• Debris was reported in the roadway on Notasulga Road.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Greenwood Road.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Burglary was reported on Hunters Ridge.

• Trespassing was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• An animal complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

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

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

• A Black female was arrested during a traffic stop on First Avenue.

MARCH 4

• A suicidal subject was reported on Hillcrest Street.

• A fight was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A white female was arrested during a welfare check on Rifle Range Road.

• A welfare check was conducted on Rifle Range Road.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Zion Street.

• A motor vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Oak Heights Road.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Third Avenue.

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

• Theft was reported on Riverknolle Road.

• A white male was arrested on Washington Street.

• A white female was arrested on Gilmer Avenue.

• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Highway 229.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Clover Street.

• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.

• A noise complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Suspicious activity was reported Lower Tuskegee Road. Assistance was given to a motorist on Highway 229.

• A Black Female was arrested during a traffic stop on Highway 229.

Society of Elmore County News

Abandonment is a serious problem

Abandoned is a legal term defining a pet that has been left to fend for itself by its owner and is sadly something we deal with far too much at our shelter.

Think about it – last year the ‘owners’ of 2,270 dogs and cats in Elmore County actively left them to ‘make it on their own’ (or die), or for someone else to find and deal with.

Those 2270 are animals brought to us as strays or seized by animal control that no one ever came for. There is a reason this is a criminal act though sadly virtually never prosecuted.

Out of the 1,163

Adult Dogs (over six months old) we took in last year, 767 came to us as strays. Of these 767, 24% (185) were reclaimed by their owners happy to get their wayward pet back.

Sadly when we look at puppies (495 stray dogs under six months old), the reclaim rate dropped to less than 4% which indicates that there are people who take their unwanted litters of puppies and simply dump them to fend for themselves. How many more litters of puppies were abandoned only to die by starvation, dehydration, cars, wildlife…. simply heartbreaking to think about.

Where cats are concerned, the news is absolutely abysmal. Of the 383 ‘Adult Stray Cats’ brought to us in 2024 only 6 or 1.5% were reclaimed by their owner. And of the 833 “Stray Kittens” brought in, only ONE was reclaimed. That left 1,209 “Stray” cats & kittens for us to care for and try to find homes for, BESIDES the 753 cats & kittens turned into us by their owners. Now with cats, many of these are feral (mean -

Pet of the Week — Scrappy

ing no owner) and we understand that. Cats are also exceedingly challenging as they can be gone for weeks or months before returning home, so we get quite excited whenever we can get a cat back to its family!

And don’t forget that those strays are not the only pets we are dealing with as we took in over 1,486 dogs and cats surrendered by their owners! Pretty daunting numbers no matter how you look at this!

So while pets can and do run away or get lost, why is it that so very few are ever reclaimed by their owners? Good question.

Yes, we take in pets that are starved, filthy, sick and may very well deserve a better home than the one they had. But we also receive a lot of pets in perfect health, well groomed, clean, new collars (hardly ever any rabies/ ID tag or microchip),

Scrappy is a sixteen-month-old male Lab mix, 60 lbs, house and crate trained, great with children, dogs and cats. He was originally found as a stray, kept for a few months and then brought to us. He is active and playful but not super high energy and we were told he was more of a couch potato. Our adoption fees are $100 for dogs & $50 for cats under one-year-old; cats over one-year-old can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee completely covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, de-worming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs,

rabies vaccination if old enough, free health exam with your participating veterinarian. If you are interested in meeting Scrappy or any of our pets, our first step is our Adoption Application you can do here: https://elmorehumane.org/adoption-application-online-form2.html . Once approved, we will coordinate with you to set up an appointment to meet & adopt. We are located at 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, AL, 36092, our phone number is 334-567-3377 and our website is www.elmorehumane. org for more information

and yet no owner comes for far too many of these pets. That is extremely frustrating to those of us in Shelters everywhere.

Our dogs and cats depend on us for their care and well-being which is why abandoning a dog or cat is not only morally wrong, but punishable as a Class A Misdemeanor as Cruelty to Animals under the Alabama Code Section 13A-11-240(b). This code states: “the word “cruel” as used in this article shall mean: “Every act, omission, or neglect, including abandonment, where unnecessary or unjustifiable pain or suffering, including abandonment, is caused or where unnecessary pain or suffering is allowed to continue.”

No matter how upset we may be at the people who dump these pets or never seem to look for their own pet, we highly commend all the people

who take them in, pick them up off the side of road, take the sick and injured to veterinarians, try to find the owners and do all they can to help these scared and bewildered pets who wanted so little in return for their loyalty.

If you have any questions about surrendering a pet or if you have

found a stray or believe an animal to have been abandoned please call us at 334-567-3377 or email hselco@bellsouth. net for guidance. Our first wish for any lost pet is to find its way back home and we will always work diligently to help strayed pets go safely back home with their owner.

Kenneth Boone, Chairman

Tippy Hunter,

Page A4 • March 13, 2024

Support your local businesses

It’s time to step up and support small businesses. This weekend, Lake Martin Brewing in Alexander City put out a video on Facebook stating that the company has seen no momentum shift and has made zero profit in the seven months since it opened in 2023.

Owner Ed Durrett said in the video that they were struggling to even pay the bills. He asked the question “Why are we doing this?” and said the brewery is at “the lowest performing of all breweries probably in the entire United States.”

He then went on to say he was going to give the business 60 more days to see a major shift, and if it does not see a positive swing that he will be closing the doors for good.

It’s time to support small businesses.

We hear complaints all the time that there’s nothing to do in the towns we live in. But when something is built or opened like Lake Martin Brewing, people do not go out and support.

If you want things in your community, you have to go out and support them.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 20% of small businesses fail within the first year they’re open.

Even if the business is not for you, there should still be the support from the community. Everyone involved in the local shops that line Wetumpka and Alex City are normal people. These aren’t conglomerates that are taking over our cities. These are everyday folks who are just trying to make a living and bring a unique store, restaurant or brewery to town so there’s variety.

Nobody would be happy with just a McDonalds, Dollar General and a single gas station in town. So when we have somebody open a business near us, we need to support them. Us at Tallapoosa Publishers are going to try to do our best to help local businesses. We are going to eat lunch at the restaurants, we are going to have a drink or two at the local watering holes, and we’re going to go shopping at the mom and pop stores that line downtown.

If you want things in your community, you have to go out and support them.

What’s

your

Opinion?

We’d like to share your thoughts and opinions with the community for free. You may submit one letter to the editor per month (300 words or less) and/or a guest column (500 words or less). Include name, address and phone number. We reserve the right to refuse any submissions. Mail: Your View, The Wetumpka Herald 127 Company Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092 E-mail: editorelmore@thewetumpkaherald.com

Obituaries: 35 cents per word with a $25 charge for picture per paper (Herald, Observer, Tribune). Obituaries are only accepted via the funeral home in charge of arrangements. We do not accept obituaries from individuals.

Weddings, Engagements, Anniversaries, or Birth Announcements: These significant family events or milestones are 25 cents per word and $15 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

We reserve the right to refuse to print any advertisement, news story, photograph or any other material submitted to us for any reason or no reason at all.

The publisher reserves the right to change subscription rates during the term of subscription with a 30-day notice. The notice can be mailed to the subscriber, or by notice in the newspaper itself. To subscribe or if you missed your paper, call Erin Burton or Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.

The Wetumpka Herald is contract printed each Tuesday evening in Alexander City by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. 256-234-4281

I survived the ‘news’ outage of 2024

t’s a morning ritual for me.

Drink coffee and scroll. Some days I wonder why my right thumb doesn’t have a blister.

I use Facebook to keep up with friends, but more importantly I use it for work. I attempt to see what everyone is talking about, what the news of the day might be. Some days there are posts I have to look into and others are just entertaining.

It’s where I sometimes find if there was an arrest overnight, or it could be Johnny pitching a perfect game. It’s quick most of the time, unless I keep going. Oh, just a little more.

It’s convenient because it fits in my hand while on the couch. It’s always reliable — well at least at working because we all know not everything on the internet is true.

Like many, I panicked last Tuesday morning when I couldn’t log into Facebook.

Multiple attempts to log in didn’t work.

Maybe it was Joe Biden or Donald Trump who didn’t want me to see the news of the day?

Maybe I had been hacked, I thought. Was it my password? I tried all my favorites. But still, The Zuck didn’t let me log in.

I didn’t have time to deal with it. I had work to do. I had to be in a federal courtroom for a story and get ready to report on an election.

I made my calls. I talked to people.

I checked a time or two and was still locked out.

I kept working and finally realized something, I didn’t need Facebook or any other social media.

I was getting better, more reliable information. How? By talking to real, live people.

The last few years I have found myself on social media a lot. It is something I do more often than I care to admit. I track down so many things shared on social media that when I finally figure out what is going on, it is either down right wrong or so jaded.

When you see how wrong the information behind the post is, you wonder why it was shared to begin with.

I think I know why it gets shared. Often we only read the part of the post in social media and rarely the link shared with it. We see what friends share and soon we are sharing it as well.

Now Mr. Zuck sees a pattern and keeps feeding similar posts our direction. A little while later we are still down the rabbit hole and soon believ-

ing the posts.

After all, if it is shared by our friends and coming from five different sources it must be true. It’s on the internet. I use all the posts and comments as a starting point for further investigation in my work. We should question everything we see on social media. Let’s ask ourselves who has vetted the information? Are there other motives behind the post?

A day after the outage that everyone marked themselves safe from, I realized we should cherish the moment. We actually talked to each other once again during the outage. We found the muscles in our necks to lift our heads to speak with one another. We had friendly discussions about many things, including politics.

Hopefully we also discovered everything on social media and the internet is not true.

Maybe we start to question some of the posts and comments we see online.

At the end of the day, I hope we realized we can have great conversations on topics we can disagree on without hiding behind the keyboard and wall of glass that is social media.

Cliff Williams is the news editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.’s Elmore County newspapers. He can be reached at cliff.williams@thewetumpkaherald.com.

Book ‘em, Danno

t comes in waves, literally.

IThe advent of streaming television services makes it easy to either binge watch a series or dedicate time to watching as many episodes as one can.

Over the past year, I have revisited a police procedural that, in so many ways, set the template still used today for crime dramas on TV – “Hawaii Five-O.”

While there was a successful reboot that ran recently on CBS, the version I’ve been watching is the original that ran for twelve seasons on CBS from 1968-1980.

Probably 99% of the episodes take place in Hawaii – and remember, when the series began, Hawaii had only been a state for nine years. The authenticity and beauty of the scenery is often cited as the reason for the show’s success. However, viewers also thrilled to the interesting plots, intelligent writing, groundbreaking stories, and the character actors who populated the cast.

“Hawaii Five-O” also may have had the greatest theme music of all time. The theme by Morton Stevens was so well-known, the composer’s car tag read “A-A-C-E-D-A” – the first six notes of the theme song! The opening sequence by Reza Badiyi was so successful and memorable, it was updated and used again for the reboot series in a nearly shot-for-shot remake.

At the head of the cast was Steve McGarrett, played to perfection by noir-ish actor Jack Lord.

McGarrett led Five-O, a police unit named for Hawaii being the 50th state, that worked in collaboration with local authorities. Five-0 handled all kinds of felonies, murders, assassination attempts, foreign agents, organized crime, and more. Steve McGarrett *is* Hawaii Five-O. Without his chiseled looks, stone-cold demeanor, tailored suits, and perfect hair, this show just wouldn’t be the same!

McGarrett’s second-in-command was Danny Williams, called “Danno” by Steve. Other Five-O officers included Kam Fong as Chin Ho; Zulu as Kono; and Herman Wedemeyer as Duke.

Another appeal of this series are catching the guest stars, who were sometimes cast against type (usually as the bad guy) from their more wellknown roles. Some notables included Patty Duke; Ed Asner; Leslie Nielsen; Ricardo Montalban; Helen Hayes; Gavin MacLeod; Hume Cronyn; Robert Vaughn; and many more. Finally, Khigh Dheigh played the evil Wo Fat, who was a Red Chinese terrorist wanting to control the entire Pacific. Wo Fat was McGarrett’s nemesis all twelve seasons.

Over twelve seasons, obviously there will be peaks and valleys just like on Diamond Head. To be honest, with Jack Lord nearly in his fifties as the series began, it was somewhat believable to see him as a seasoned cop jumping off ledges and tussling with bad guys. By the time we get to the 12th season, Lord was a little long

in the tooth to be engaging in fight sequences with the perpetrators each week.

But that is a minor point. The dazzling part of this show that has been so attractive over the past year is the stellar storytelling. I have found myself enthralled with many of the episodes that kept me guessing how McGarrett would figure it all out before the end of the show! Somehow, he always does.

McGarrett works at the behest of the Governor. The Governor of Hawaii is often seen giving Steve special orders to bring down a particular criminal, or to provide police protection for a visiting dignitary (who often winds up being crooked or killed before it’s over). While those episodes are interesting, I have really enjoyed the episodes where an improbable killer plays cat-and-mouse with Steve and Danny. For Hawaii to be a paradise, there are some rotten folks living there!

If it’s been a while since you watched “Hawaii Five-O,” perhaps add it to your list of programs to view. You can watch it on Pluto TV, Paramount+, or the Heroes & Icons channel, but sometimes it will appear on other streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime. Book ‘em, Danno!

Michael Bird is the co-host of “The Saturday Morning Show” on 580 WACQ & FM 98.5.

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist

BRIDGE Continued from A1 POLICY Continued from A1

old houses and the Presbyterian Church.”

The bridge was constructed in 1927 and was the fourth bridge at the site since 1834. The first bridge was washed away in 1844. Horace King designed and supervised construction of the second bridge. It was washed away in 1886. An iron bridge was then built in 1887 but deterioration led to the construction of the current bridge. It is 140 feet long.

Whitfield believes more locals should take advantage of the bridge.

There are no bad views of it. Kayakers can paddle under it. Pedestrians can walk under it and take in the views from Gold Star Park. But Whitfield has her favorite spot and it’s not necessarily from the Big Fish House.

“When you stand on the patio of The Kelly with that sunset and river, it is an amazing view,” Whitfield said.

“Some people go their entire lives and never see something like that. We get to look at it every single day.”

and said we can either teach or we can monitor cell phones.”

The issue of cell phones

Stanhope instructional coach Leslie Caylor had seasoned and successful staff coming to her seeking ways to reach children who were distracted by cell phones.

“That is coming from your most dynamic teachers who have no trouble engaging kids,” Caylor said. “They are like, ‘I’m good but I can’t compete with Netflix.’ It is a constant battle.”

Stanhope coach and Elmore County secondary teacher of the year Johanna Angelo had issues with the phones.

“They were zombies,” Angelo said of her students. “They would tuck them in their Chromebooks.”

Many juniors in Angelo’s AP Literature class admitted to using cellphones in class.

school by placing their phone in a pouch. It is sealed by staff. Fuller said students tried to figure out how to get around the system.

“They were so addicted to them they were beating the pouches on the walls of dressing rooms and bathrooms trying to open them,” Fuller said.

Students and staff at Stanhope are now into the fourth semester with the cell phone pouches.

“The parents and students have complied,” Fuller said.

The school has been transparent about its policy. It is zero tolerance and the first instance of a student found to be with an unlocked cell phone carries a penalty of two days of in-school suspension, the second offense is four days and it goes up from there.

Heather Perdue said. “It was nice to see. At lunch some will play hand games and interact with each other.”

The no cell phone policy has changed how teachers teach.

“I thought I was good at classroom management in that nobody talked and everyone did OK,” Angelo said. “The students were angels. We took the phones away and I was like, ‘Uggh,’ for a moment. They were numbed by the electronics.”

Students now speak with each other instead of burying their eyes into electronic devices when they are finished with their work.

“I’m learning to be comfortable with noise again,” Angelo said. “You got to get used to it. It used to be when they finished they would get quiet. Now they talk to each other.”

it happened over the weekend. It’s not happening during the day.”

Teacher and public feedback

Fuller believes the cell phone policy is helping with teacher retention and burnout.

“I have had teachers come in my office from other states, numerous hires and from other schools, they say they won’t go to a school without the cell phone pouch,” Fuller said. “Teachers are looking for help with distractions like this because it interrupts their lessons.”

It was a topic of discussion as Stanhope staff were at a recent teacher recruitment event as well.

an open and honest discussion. You have to find common ground on any issue. If you can remember to put the students first, you will never lose. I think that is what the focus needs to be.”

The board also interviewed retired Air Force Maj. John ‘Jab’ Brown, Chris Tyler, Alabama State University health officer and nurse practitioner Joyce Loyd-Davis and ADEM environmental engineer Brian Espy. All of the candidates supplied the board with letters of interest and resumes. They were all asked the same questions in an open meeting.

Current board member Leisa Finley was impressed with all five who interviewed for the open seat left by Bain.

“We can’t go wrong with any of these,” Finley said. “Can we add a few more places on the board? I hope if you are not selected, you will somehow be involved.” MEYERS Continued from A1

“Most didn’t hide it,” Angelo said. “If you ever see kids giggling at their own crotch, it’s because there is a cell phone there.”

Fuller was having other problems with cell phones too. They were far more serious than enabling students to watch Netflix instead of the teacher. He realized he had to make a stand.

“Some issues were felonies,” Fuller said. “The choices we had to make are, ‘Do we want to deal with some type of cyberbullying or child pornography or the complaints about not having phones?’”

To start the 2023-2023 school year, Fuller chose to lock cell phones in pouches for students during the school day. He said he had the full support of the Elmore County Board of Education and superintendent Richard Dennis.

“We were the first school in the Southeastern United States to do full implementation,” Fuller said.

Students start their day at

“You have to be consistent from teachers to administrators when catching and punishing them,” Caylor said. “If it is your favorite kid and you don’t punish them, then it spreads like wildfire and it’s like a cancer again.”

Student improvements

It’s now been three and half semesters with no cell phones and the results are astounding. Test scores are up and Fuller believes there are fewer fights.

“It is keeping the chaos that comes with social media from interrupting the school day,” Fuller said.

Students have returned to habits before cell phones were prevalent among teenagers.

“The biggest thing we have seen and had to adapt to is the noise level,” Caylor said. “The students are actually talking to each other instead of sending messages. It is promoting socialization.”

The noise is evident in the hallways between classes and in the cafeteria. Students are not looking down at their phones. They are instead looking at friends and classmates talking.

“The other day there were a couple of kids playing a card game,” assistant principal

CommunityCalendar

Giddyup cowboys

Junior Annie Flanagan is in Angelo’s AP Literature class. She was once guilty of hiding her phone behind her school issued Chromebook to watch Netflix. The policy has been both good and bad for her.

“Sometimes there is a class with no one to talk to and it’s boring,” Flanagan said. “Then there are classes like this and you can talk to everybody. When we are done with work we have weird conversations — about pickles the other day. We had a pickle break a few days later.”

Angelo mentioned pickles because It has been the topic of discussion for the class for a couple of weeks now.

“It isn’t about the cellphones but it is about the conversations and getting to know each other,” Angelo said.

Perdue said discipline referrals are down as well, though there are still some for cell phones.

“It goes through spurts,” Perdue said. “For a little bit I feel like it’s everyday I’m getting one. Then word gets around. The most I deal with now is skipping and an occasional vape. There is no fighting. There is no online drama unless

The cell phone pouch was a spot of contention when it was first introduced. Fuller fielded numerous calls and messages voicing complaints. Some went so far as to say it was a Constitutional violation. Others stooped even further, messaging Fuller’s children about the matter. But Fuller stood firm.

The program has drawn attention. Instead of fielding calls from angry parents, Fuller is speaking with other principals and educational staff on the cell phone pouches.

“I have had numerous conversations, Zoom calls, visits from superintendents from other school systems,” Fuller said. “I have had Zoom meetings with full central office staff. I have had phone calls from North Carolina to Texas on what it’s like. I invite people to come see what it is like.”

Fuller’s biggest advice is once implementing the program is to stick with and have thick skin.

The program has also been recognized by the Council for Leaders of Alabama Schools (CLAS). The Stanhope cell phone pouch program has been recognized as one of 32 schools in the state with the CLAS School of Distinction.

Fuller and staff now wait until May 6 to see if Stanhope is one of eight schools selected as a CLAS Banner School.

MURPHY

Tuesday and

MARCH 14-16

DINNER THEATER: The Stanhope Elmore High School theater program, FCCLA and Family Consumer Science Program are hosting a dinner theater fundraiser at 6:30 p.m. March 14-16. Tickets are available by contacting Brady Walker at brady.walker@elmoreco.com.

THURSDAY, MARCH 14 AWARDS BANQUET: The Tallassee Chamber of Commerce will host its annual awards banquet at 7 p.m. March 14 at the Tallassee National Armory Guard. Tickets are $40 for an individual or $250 for a table of 6. For more information, contact the Chamber at 334-283-5151 or via email at chamber@tallasseechamber.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

LIVING HISTORY SATURDAY: Ft. Toulouse-Ft. Jackson is hosting demonstrations of how people lived in the area as settlers began to arrive on Saturday, March 16. ANNUAL CHAMBER MEETING: The Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 2024 Annual Meeting, ‘The Night A Star Fell,’ from 6 to 10 p.m. SHAM ROCKIN’ BASH: The

Tallassee Rec Center will be hosting a 55+ Sham Rockin’ Bash from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 16. There will be a DJ and dancing, refreshments and a photo booth. It is $15 for singles and $25 for couples with limited space. Reserve a spot by March 12. For more information, call 334283-4726.

MARCH 16 — MARCH 17

CIRCUS: Tallassee’s 1220 Cafe will be hosting the Lewis & Clark Circus on March 16 and 17. Tickets are $15.99 per adult plus one child, or $42.99 for a family pack of two adults and up to four children. This is a rain or shine event. Showtimes are 4:30 and 7 p.m. March and 2 and 4:30 p.m. March 17.

THURSDAY, MARCH 21

KELLY ROAD TRIP: The Kelly Fitzpatrick Center for the Arts is hosting another Kelly Road Trip March 21. This visit will go to the Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum in Montgomery. Those interested need to sign up at The Kelly and meet at 9:30 a.m. at The Kelly to carpool.

FRIDAY, MARCH 22

BINGO: Paintball 111 in Wetumpka will host a Ladies Only

Bingo Night from 6 to 9 p.m. March 22. Tickets are $20 and each bingo card is $1. Doors open at 6 p.m. and bingo begins at 7. Wine is complimentary for women ages 21 and older.

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

TEA PARTY: Annie Rae of Downtown Eclectic will be hosting a special tea party for girls ages 5 through 12 with delicious snacks and refreshments. Wear your favorite Easter attire and enjoy photos with the Easter bunny. The cost is $35 per person. Call 334-639-0086 for more information.

MONDAY, MARCH 25

GOLF TOURNAMENT: The Tallassee Chamber of Commerce will host its annual golf tournament at 12:30 p.m. March 25 at Wynlakes Country Club. There will be hole-inone, closest to the pin, longest drive and putting contests. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m.

SATURDAY, APRIL 6

PICKETT FEST: The Wilson Pickett Music and Arts Festival is April 6 at Cooters Pond in Prattville. The annual event features music and art vendors.

will be at Wetumpka’s Pecan Orchard on Wednesday. The train officially stops in the Montgomery area on Thursday.

Davis and others win easily in Elmore County

Brad Davis was a little surprised while waiting for numbers to come in on Super Tuesday.

Davis was running for the District 2 seat on the Elmore County Commission against Jennifer Bennett and Brent Langley. But Davis had an advantage. He campaigned for the same office in 2020 against incumbent Mack Daughtery and lost.

“We knew he had a strong following,” Davis said. “We also knew at some point you have to get in the race. We did that with the understanding it was going to be tough. We had a really good campaign four years ago. That is what solidified us coming back and running four years later.”

Davis is a Tallassee native and came back after serving in the Marine Corps. What he didn’t already know about the area, the 2020 campaign filled in the knowledge gaps about the district.

“We live in a phenomenal county,” Davis said. “It’s been a really good county for a long time.

We are a blue-collar community, a blue-collar county. We have conservative roots. We want to be left alone by big government.”

Davis doesn’t see any major flaws with how the county commission is operating. But also wants to reserve a final judgment on that until he gets more

first hand information.

“We want to get in there and understand what is working efficiently and working the way it should,” Davis said. “We will figure those things out.”

The mission is simple though: protect what is here, such as the recreational opportunities surrounding the river and lakes, and maintaining and expanding employment opportunities.

“We want to create a community where our families want to return when they get to choose a place to live,” Davis said. The method to success is simple — communication, being active and being present. Davis is already highly active. He is a church deacon, president of the Tallassee Community Development Corporation

and involved in schools with his three children and wife. In Tallassee, Davis has already been meeting with stakeholders for years, but wants to learn more about Eclectic, Kent and the rest of District 2.

“We will start having meetings with groups and municipalities,” Davis said. “Hopefully at least once a quarter go to places like Eclectic and meet with the various groups to see what they think the county is doing well. What are things we, I specifically, can do better?”

Davis believes communication is key moving forward for the best interests of everyone.

“We want to have an active presence where everyone feels comfortable giving you a call,” Davis said. “If people feel communication is not two-way, they

will stop calling. They will stop speaking with you. We don’t want that. We want to have an open line of communication.”

Elmore County residents will also see new representation in Congress. After redistricting in Alabama, Elmore County will be a part of the United States Representative 6th Congressional District Jan. 1. Gary Palmer is the incumbent and last week Elmore County voters got a chance to vote for him for the first time. County voters favored Palmer with 81.38% of the vote compared to Gerrick Wilkins 11.56% and Ken McFeeters 7.06%. It is similar to the rest of the district where Palmer led the group with 83.25% of the vote.

There is a new family court judge coming to the 19th Judicial Circuit. The position will start in January 2025. In Elmore County, Dee Dee Calhoun received 4,959 votes (41.79%), Jacquelyn Tomlinson 4,161 votes (35.06). Nicole Clark received 2,747 votes (23.15%).

Across the district including Elmore, Autagua and Chilton counties, Calhoun received 14,002 votes or 52.09%, Tomlinson 6,965 or 25.91% and Clark 5,914 22%.

Calhoon will take the bench on Jan. 1, 2025.

Elmore County voters selected Jason Britt to replace retiring probate judge John Thornton. Britt received 8,271 votes to Vicki Bonner Ward’s 4,259.

Former deputy pleads guilty to using excessive force

A former Elmore County deputy sheriff awaits sentencing after pleading guilty in federal court to depriving an arrestee of his civil rights under color of law.

Blake Hicks, 33, stood before federal magistrate Judge Jerusha Adams in Montgomery Tuesday and admitted he kicked and punched Tristen Quinn while he was handcuffed and on the ground in March 2022.

Adams asked Hicks a series of questions to determine if he was competent to enter a guilty plea. Hicks admitted to Adams he is being treated for mental illness.

“I have been since I got back from Afghanistan,” Hicks said.

Hicks said he was being treated at the VA and was currently taking medication for his mental illness. Hicks said he was not being treated for anything else and had no addictions.

Hicks' attorney Richard Keith asked him a series of questions about Hicks’ role in the arrest of Quinn. Hicks admitted to breaking Quinn’s cheek bone, giving him a concussion and lacerations as he kicked and punched the handcuffed defendant.

The incident stemmed from a Wetumpka Police Department traffic stop. Quinn was handcuffed and placed in the back of a Wetumpka patrol vehicle and escaped. A call for backup went to dispatch and Hicks responded. Two officers tased Quinn and video captured by security cameras at a nearby convenience store appears to show Quinn falling backwards.

The video shows an officer running then jumping onto Quinn. Kicks and punches follow.

As part of the plea agreement Hicks agreed to surrender his APOSTC certification and never seek employment as a corrections or law enforcement officer.

The U.S. Government, through Assistant United States Attorney Eric Counts for the Middle District of Alabama, agreed to seek a minimal sentence and not to pursue additional charges from the incident.

Adams said the federal district judge is not bound to sentence according to a plea agreement.

Hicks could be sentenced up to 10 years in a federal prison, levied a $250,000 fine and given a three year supervised probation upon release from prison.

Adams allowed Hicks to

SUBMITTED | TPI

Former Elmore County deputy sheriff Blake Hicks pleaded guilty in federal court last week to his part in injuries caused to Tristen Quinn in a March 5, 2022 traffic stop.

remain released until sentencing as Hicks has stayed in treatment for a mental illness, has full time employment and a young child. “Since his indictment he has complied with the requests

of the U.S. Probation Office,” Adams said. A pre-sentencing report must be completed before Hicks is sentenced. No date for a sentencing hearing has been set.

ASE celebrates 70 years in the River Region

Giving back and customer service have always been hallmarks at ASE Credit Union.

For 70 years the financial institution has been serving its members around Montgomery.

“Our mission is serving our communities,” ASE’s Marilyn Hawkins said. “We love being out with our friends and members. It is people helping people. We are here to serve our members.” Members stay with ASE, as some have been with the credit union more than 50

years. ASE got its start in 1954 in the basement of the Alabama Capital with 15 state employees joining with beginning shares at $265 each. By 2001, it was operating in Montgomery and eight surrounding counties. Membership was allowed for all who live, work, attend school or worship in those eight counties. Also all participants of the Employees Retirement Systems of Alabama were allowed membership. In 2003, the Wetumpka branch of ASE was opened. Today there are nine branches in Clanton, Selma, Greenville, Millbrook, Wetumpka, Prattville and the Montgomery

CHOOSE Continued from A1

“We have hardship waivers that will allow parents to apply for students to move schools.”

Under CHOOSE, planning for the future becomes difficult for public schools. They are tasked by law to educate students. It often takes three or more years to build new facilities at existing campuses, even when funding is available. But planning for future needs is more difficult for public schools when students leave easily.

Luckily for Elmore County Schools there are no major projects on the horizon. A new front entrance at Wetumpka Elementary School is in the works to make the school more secure. A new diesel instruction shop and classroom is planned at the Elmore County Technical Center. Both projects are facilitated by grants from the state.

Projects on the capital plan for county schools but not yet in the works include major renovations at Elmore County High School.

“Might as well call it a new school at Elmore County High School, but it would be done in two to three phases on the same site,” Dennis said.

A new Holtville High School is on the plan. The old Holtville High School is on the National Registry and can’t be torn down. Dennis said it would be reconfigured for middle school use.

Without transfers to private schools, Holtville already has a need for more class rooms.

“We have four portables there now,” Dennis said. “We have a little space at the other schools but are anticipating growth.”

Tallassee City Schools rebuilt about half of its high school. Superintendent Dr. Brock Nolin would like to rebuild the remainder of the school, some of which is 60 or more years old. But the system is waiting on funding.

Barner said Edgewood is currently looking at expanding its facilities, but not necessarily overnight with portable classrooms.

“Several of our classes are already full,” Barner said. “We have to be diligent about where we put students. We have placed them in portables in the past, but that is not our preference. If it is truly short term, that may be the only solution.”

Planning is also necessary to meet all the requirements for teachers in public schools.

Certifications must match up as well. Nolin said Tallassee will watch to see what happens over the next few months.

“We will make adjustments if needed,” Nolin said. “There’s always attrition, retirements and people moving. We’ll make those calls as they come.”

Ivey signed the bill on Thursday making Alabama the 14th state to adopt a school choice program.

“Our plan will not only work for Alabama families — it will work for the state and will be effective and sustainable for generations to come,” Ivey said. “With the CHOOSE Act, Alabama will now be a leader when it comes to school choice. I am hopeful that this will make a difference for Alabama families.”

area serving more than 43,000 members. “We have all the services customers have come to expect and more,” Hawkins said. “It is all with excellent, personable customer service.”

ASE has no plans going anywhere anytime soon. Hawkins said ASE will be around for another seven decades or more. “We hope to expand and grow,” Hawkins said. “We have completed renovations on our Interstate Branch at Perry Hill Road. We haven’t had the grand opening yet. It will be soon. We want to build out membership and give back to our community.”

Dennis is hopeful if students rebound back to public schools the funds quickly follow the student back. He is fearful of mid-school year transfers and the system being responsible for funds already paid out to private schools.

Some have said the plan will not help students in rural Alabama much if any because of the lack of private schools or transportation to get to them.

“Let me also be clear that my commitment to public education remains unrelenting,” Ivey said. “At the end of the day, we all want every Alabama student — no matter the zip code, no matter the school, to receive a quality education.”

CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI Campaign signs for Brad Davis were placed outside the polling location at Rushenville Baptist Church near Eclectic last week. Davis won the race for District 2 seat of the Elmore County Commission without a runoff.

Pledge your faith to God

Scripturally speaking, “pledge” is our response to God’s abundance in our lives. A pledge offers a statement of thanksgiving and an outward and visible sign of our commitment to follow the ways of Jesus, by giving as God gives to us. A pledge can help us to grow in faith and trust in God.

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.” As a citizen of the greatest country in the world, I outwardly project and inwardly honor the freedom “Old Glory” gives to each one of us.

mitment to Christian living. Not only is it getting to know God, but understanding how we should live our daily lives.

pillars followed one another around the rim, never breaking rank to go to the potted plant to eat. Conforming behavior is not confined to caterpillars!

In Vacation Bible School, not only did we pledge the flag of the United States of America, but we pledged the Bible. “I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God’s Holy Word, and I will make it a lamp unto my feet, a light unto my path, and will hide its words in my heart that I may not sin against God,” (Psalm 119).

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.

The pledge to the Bible is an integral part of one’s com -

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-

“I pledge allegiance to the Christian flag and to the Savior for whose kingdom it stands.” All of our loyalty goes to God alone and our actions today should be consistent with our beliefs.

A biologist once put a plant in a clay pot. He then encircled the rim of the pot with caterpillars, lined up one behind the other. He observed that each caterpillar followed the one immediately in front of it. Round and around they went! For a week the cater-

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

Many times we, too, find it difficult to go against the flow. However, as we look back to the Old Testament, we find that Mordecai was not such a person. The Persian king’s command was that all the royal officials honor Haman. Mordecai refused to kneel down before this man. It was definitely risky behavior, but Mordecai was more interested in honoring God than in conforming to

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

the conduct of those around him. “All the royal officials at the king’s gate knelt down and paid honor to Haman, for the king had commanded this concerning him. But Mordecai would not kneel down or pay him honor.” (Ester 3:1-6 NIV) If the pledges we mouth are from our heart, we can grow in our faith and trust in God and have great strength in crucial times if we are faithful during the ordinary times of our lives.

Jackie Wilbourn, member of Bethel Baptist Church, is a chaplain with Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief Team.

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

2024 Elmore County Boys Player of the Year

Nate Rogers’ talent level is not a secret.

The senior point guard is one of the best scorers across the entire state of Alabama, and he has showcased that ability over the last three seasons as a starter every year he’s

“This

2024 ALL-ELMORE COUNTY BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM

LAYER OF THE YEAR:

PNate Rogers, Wetumpka senior Wetumpka’s Rogers proved that he was in a class of his own when it came to scoring this season. The now back-to-back Elmore County Player of the Year averaged 25 points per game, six more than the next closest in-county player. To add to his scoring, he averaged five rebounds, three steals and three assists per game.

FIRST TEAM

Jaden Eason, Elmore County junior The Elmore County sharpshooter averaged 12.4 points per game this year, but he took another step when it came to area games. In the five most important games of the year – four area games and the playoff game – Eason averaged 16.3 points. To clinch a playoff berth, Eason knocked down four 3-point attempts against Holtville in the area tournament.

Corian Gilder, Stanhope Elmore senior Stanhope Elmore had a handful of seniors who all made an impact this season, but none bigger than Gilder. The point guard did it all as he averaged 13.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.7 steals per game. In a loss in the county tournament championship, he scored a team-best 23 points as the Mustangs came up just short of the win.

Johnny Groves, Edgewood Academy senior Groves was a first-year player for Edgewood this season, but the senior instantly made an impact on the court. He averaged a team-best 10.6 points and 3.2 steals per game while adding 2.2 assists and 4.7 rebounds. He helped lead

Edgewood to back-to-back Class AA state championships and scored 14 points in the championship game.

Malik Owens, Wetumpka senior

After earning All-County honors a year ago, Owens entered the 2024 seasons as one of the best forwards in the surrounding area. He proved to be that and more this season as part of Wetumpka’s dangerous 1-2 punch with Nate Rogers. Owens averaged 12 points, 7 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 block per game this season.

Rowen Thornton, Tallassee junior Thornton put the entire state on notice with an early season performance where he scored a career-best 50 points. He continued to score at a high level for Tallassee as he averaged 19.6 points and 4.7 rebounds per game as he led Tallassee to the Class 5A playoffs. He shot 92-of-130 at the free throw line and knocked down 52 3-pointers this year.

SECOND TEAM

Caleb Blackmon, Holtville senior Jamarion McCoy, Tallassee senior Jabari Murphy, Elmore County senior Brock Whitt, Edgewood Academy sophomore Tyrone Williams, Stanhope Elmore senior

HONORABLE MENTION Edgewood Academy: Brody Whitt, Sr., Prescott Bonner, Sr. Elmore County: Cam Brown, Sr., Gage Davis, So. Holtville: Elijah Headley, Jr., Caleb Sutton, Sr. Stanhope Elmore: Charles Johnson, Sr., Jaylon Young, Sr., Kaleb Sanders, Fr.

Tallassee: Roderius Glover, Sr., Jaiden Gordon, 8th. Wetumpka: Andrew Voyles, So.

From the outside, it seemed that Scott Phillips landed in a gold mine when he accepted the head coaching job at Edgewood Academy this past summer. The Wildcats were coming

off the AISA Class AA state championship and had 10 seniors returning for another run at it.

But it wasn’t that easy. Only two of those 10 returning players averaged over four points per game, while four of them averaged less than one point. All of them combined averaged just 23.1 points. Edgewood lost its top three scorers, and nearly all of its starters from its championship run including All-County player Austin Champion, a multi-year starter at point

Jaden Eason
Corian Gilder
Rowen Thornton
Johnny Groves
Malik Owens

guard.

It was tough to replace them, and that showed early in the season as Edgewood started the year 4-7 and was just 7-12 entering January. But then Edgewood hit area play and found its identity, and that carried into the postseason. After clinching the area title, Phillips and the Wildcats went on to claim the AISA Class AA state championship with a 14-16 overall record.

For his success, Phillips has been named the Elmore County Boys Basketball Coach of the Year.

“It wasn’t always as easy as just returning 10 players from a championship squad,” Phillips said.

“We knew we had to develop some guys. Guys who were the fourth or fifth option last year had to be the top option this year. We had to work through a lot of adversity early in the year learning roles.”

When it got to January, Phillips and his team knew the first 19 games of the season didn’t matter. The only games that mattered were the four area games in front of them – two against Hooper Academy and two against Autauga Academy.

The first matchup was a home game against Autauga, a rematch of the season prior’s state championship. In that game, Edgewood trailed by seven points with 1:10 left in the game and stormed back to tie it and send it to overtime.

In OT, Edgewood was able to pull out a 58-55 win and went to 1-0 in area play. Four days later, Edgewood beat Hooper by 15 points and controlled its own destiny. Needing only one win in its final two games to clinch the area, Edgewood did so in the third game, a matchup with Hooper.

Senior Brody Whitt hit a deep 3-pointer to tie the game and Johnny Groves hit the game-winning layup and Edgewood clinched the area championship.

“The only games that mattered were Hooper and Autauga,” Phillips said. “Our guys came out and were ready to play in those. We were able to put a lot of motivation and time into those games. Winning that Autauga game just spurred the whole season. I saw us start playing as a team right then.”

Coming from behind seemed to be the recipe for success for Edgewood’s team this year.

It started in the Autauga game, but it seemed to strike in nearly every win down the stretch.

In a 45-42 win over Evangel, Edgewood found itself down 10 points with three minutes left. The Wildcats came back to win.

In two games against Hooper, both wins, Edgewood was down three points in the final 15 seconds and then down 13 points in the second quarter of the state semifinals.

Even in the championship game against Abbeville, a team that beat Edgewood twice in the regular season, the Wildcats found themselves down in the first half before a barrage of 3-pointers in the third quarter secured the win and the state title.

“They just developed a never give up attitude,” Phillips said. “That Autauga game helped that. We were down, but we could always come back. I saw grit out of my guys and they never gave up.”

ROGERS Continued from B1

slowed down every season and I took advantage of that as well as just being aggressive and having confidence in myself.”

Wetumpka lost nearly 16 points per game in graduating D’Marcus Peake in 2023. Rogers knew he would have to make that up. So, he started taking a few more shots in games, and it quickly paid off for him.

In the Indians’ first game of the season, it was evident Rogers was going to have a special season. Against Cen-

Wetumpka’s Cox wins all-star wrestling match

If there was any question about who the best heavyweight wrestler is in the state of Alabama, Wetumpka senior Willie Cox quickly squashed any argument on Saturday afternoon.

Wrestling in the Alabama Wrestling Coaches Association’s second annual North/ South All-Star event held at Huntingdon College, Cox made quick work of his opponent on the North squad.

Cox defeated Hewitt-Trussville’s Zack Chatman via decision (15-5) in the finale of the tournament. Cox’s South team lost the duals match, but it wasn’t because of his dominant performance on the mats.

“This match was awesome,” Cox said. “I faced Zack early in the season and only won by a 1-0 decision, so to come out here and get a major win felt really good.”

Cox passed the 1-point

mark not even 10 seconds into the match. The Montevallo signee doesn’t wrestle like the usual heavyweight, as he will quickly grapple and get someone to the ground. That was the case on Saturday as he earned his first takedown just seven seconds into the match. He quickly

turned that into a nearfall, and was up 5-0 seemingly before anyone in the gym could even blink.

After two resets, Cox gave Chatman a free escape and quickly took down the big man shortly after. He led 5-1 after the first period and 10-3 after the second.

“I was able to get to my

offense and he couldn’t stop it,” Cox said. “I was just able to get to my offense.” Cox ended up capping his high school career with the 15-5 win, and it was as dominant as any match on the day. All five points that Chatman scored were free escapes that Cox gave his opponent, and which Cox quickly turned into takedowns.

Cox finished his senior season with a 47-1 overall record, going undefeated against wrestlers from Alabama. He has not lost to an in-state wrestler since his sophomore season and has won back-to-back state championships in Class 6A.

As much as he enjoyed capping his high school career off a few weeks ago at the championships in Huntsville, he wouldn’t have missed the All-Star event for anything.

“I loved it here,” Cox said. “I’d do it all over again any day.”

Wetumpka’s Campbell named Big 10 Freshman of the Week

Not even a calen -

dar year after leading Wetumpka to its second state title in program history, Ashlynn Campbell is making herself known in the college ranks.

Campbell, who has started every game at second base this season for Purdue, was named the Big 10’s Freshman of the Week for her efforts in five games against Marshall, Butler and Radford. She became the school’s first Freshman of the Week since 2018.

Over the five games, Campbell went 7-for-17 for a .412 batting average. She scored two runs in the process while driving in five RBIs and going a perfect 2-for-2 on stolen base attempts.

She was just as good in

the field as she was nearly perfect with a 22-for-23 week for a 96% fielding percentage.

She went a perfect 7-for-7 against Butler, a career high in putouts. Purdue went 2-3 on the weekend and currently has a 9-8 overall record this season.

Campbell herself is off to a stellar start to her college career. She currently ranks fourth on the Boilermakers in batting average with a .326 average in 15 starts. She has 15 hits on the year, including one double, and is second on the team with eight RBIs. She’s been walked five times, struck out only seven times and has a .392 on base percentage.

Campbell was a star for Wetumpka in her high school career. Not only did she help lead the Indians

to the state title her senior year, she also accumulated a .534 average with 102 hits, 11 home runs, 90 runs, 78 stolen bases and

Stanhope Elmore’s Jones named cross country all-star

One of the best cross country runners in Elmore County has been selected to run in the AHSAA NorthSouth All-Star Cross Country Race.

Stanhope Elmore’s Tristen Jones was one of 40 rising seniors selected to participate in the 8th annual race held at Gateway Park in Montgomery this summer. The AHSAA All-Star Week is scheduled for July 15-19, but specific events have not been scheduled yet. Jones is one of 10 runners selected for the South boys team, and is the only runner from the county to be selected this season. Jones had a stellar junior season this past fall and placed 50th in the state championship race with a personal-best time of 17:18.53.

tral-Hayneville, Wetumpka trailed 61-60 with under five seconds left when Rogers was inbounded the ball.

Instead of passing, he dribbled straight down the court past two defenders and laid in the basket as the buzzer sounded. Wetumpka won that game, 62-61, and Rogers was on top of the world to start the season.

“That shot was amazing and it really just gave me a lot more confidence in myself and it gave coach (Steven) Thomas more confidence in me,” Rogers said. “That helped me out a lot this year. It always helps you play better when you know everyone has confidence in you.”

Rogers went on to have multiple 30-point nights across the season, but none bigger than his two area games against rival Stanhope Elmore.

The two teams played three times, and Wetumpka won all three. Rogers dropped 18 points against the Mustangs in the county tournament, but then went off in the last two matchups.

At home, Rogers scored a season-high 37 points and led the Indians to a 77-67 win. On the road, he did even better.

He scored a career-best 40 points and led Wetumpka to a 75-58 win, clinching the No. 3 seed in the area tournament. Rogers’ goal was to score

In the South State race the week prior, he finished first overall with a time of 17:48.70, just beating twin brother Dominic Jones by .2 seconds. Wetumpka coach Jessica Holbert was also selected to participate as the girls coach of the South Team. The Wetumpka boys team that Holbert coaches finished 23rd in the state championship this fall.

50 points in a game this year, but doing what he did against Stanhope made up for not hitting the half-century mark.

“It felt so good doing that against my rival team,” Rogers said. “I didn’t reach my original goal of 50, but my two highest point totals of the year were both against Stanhope so it evened out a little bit.”

Fans of Stanhope Elmore are going to be happy to see Rogers in a UAB football jersey and no longer sporting the Wetumpka black and gold next season.

Rogers went 4-0 in games against the Mustangs this season, and dominated them in every outing. In football

season, he passed for a careerhigh 305 yards and three touchdowns while also rushing for 135 yards and two more scores. He finished his high school football career with a 3-0 record against Stanhope as a starter. Against the Mustangs in basketball this year, he also went 3-0 and averaged 32 points against them with the two big scoring outbursts.

“I just feel like in the big games, I like to show up a little more,” Rogers said.

“Everybody is watching and knows me around the area so I like to put on a show. I wanted to leave my mark on the rivalry.”

DALTON MIDDLETON TPI
Wetumpka senior Willie Cox, the back-to-back Class 6A state champion in the 285-pound weight class, defeated Hewitt-Trussville’s Zack Chatman 15-5 in the ALWCA North/South All-Star Duals Tournament on Saturday.
48 RBIs last season. She holds the single-season and career stolen base record at Wetumpka.
MEDIA RELATIONS | PURDUE ATHLETICS
Wetumpka’s Ashlynn Campbell has been named the Big Ten Freshman of the Week after hitting .412 with five RBIs over the weekend.

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Lake River & Classi eds

Administrative Assistant, Server, Beverage Cart, Cook, & Maintenance Crew Workers

We have a fun and friendly atmosphere and competitive pay!

If you are interested in applying, please do so at: The Links O’Tryon 11250 New Cut Road, Campobello, SC 29322 If you

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

State Classified

AlaScans

informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 866-605-5915

Public Notices

Public Notices

Public Notices

how easy it is to advertise statewide!

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 833-449-1307.

BECOME A PUBLISHED

AUTHOR! We edit, print and distribute your work internationally. We do the work… You reap the Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: 888-283-4780

LONG DISTANCE MOVING: Call today for a FREE QUOTE from America's Most Trusted Interstate Movers. Let us take the stress out of moving! Speak to a Relocation Specialist, call 844-925-3534

WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION: A small amount of water can lead to in your home. Our trusted professionals do complete repairs to protect your family and your home's value! Call 24/7: 1-877-727-2344 Have zip code of service location ready when you call!

EDUCATION

ATTENTION ACTIVE Duty & Military Veterans! Begin a new career and earn your Degree at CTI! Online Computer & Medical training available for Veterans & Families! To learn more, call 866-475-1014 (M-F 8am-6pm ET).

HEALTH/BEAUTY

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit. Call 844-322-9935.

ATTENTION: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - $99 + FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 866-505-0828. FOR SALE

DirecTV Satellite TV Service Starting at $59.99/month! Free Installation! 160+ channels available. Call Now to Get the Most Sports & Entertainment on TV! 844-594-7108

NEED NEW Flooring? Call Empire Today to schedule a Free in-home estimate on Carpeting and Flooring. Call Today! 1-888-381-0916.

UPDATE YOUR HOME with Beautiful New Blinds & Shades. FREE in-home estimates make it convenient to shop from home. Professional installation. Top quality - Made in the USA. Call for free consultation: 844-809-9165. Ask about our specials! Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-683-2005 Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-877-323-5516 today to schedule a free quote. power move.

Safe Step. North America's #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-844-871-6175 Wesley Financial Group, LLCTimeshare Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 866-816-1208

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, we're waiving all installation costs! to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 12/31/23 Call 1-877-205-0836

Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material - steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime!

Limited Time Offer - up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-833-955-3163

AUTOMOTIVE SUPPORT THE BLIND!

Donate a car to the American Council of the Blind. FAST FREE PICKUP. 24-hour response. Running or not. maximum tax deduction and no emission test required! Call 24/7: 844-601-1342.

AUTO INSURANCE from $29 month Free 2-minute Quote! We Compare all Insurance providers offers for you! Lowest Rates! Call Now 866-450-0943

WANTED 10 HOMES in your county needing Metal Roofs, Siding or Windows. March ONLY METAL ROOF $4,395 COMPLETELY INSTALLED. Payments $89/mo* SAVE$$$ Call800-664-4856 *for details

VEHICLE TITLE Problems? We have a solution! Call Jason Steward Enterprises, We’re Alabama’s #1 Vehicle Title Problem Experts! Free telephone consultation. North AL 1-256-850-0527, Central AL 1-205-267-5735, South AL 1-251-342-8538.

Public Notices

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF FLORA

JEAN HICKS, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-060 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of FLORA JEAN HICKS, deceased, having been granted to JAMES M. HICKS, III on March 6, 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.

JAMES M. HICKS, HI PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF FLORA JEAN HICKS, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: MONICA G. MANN

COURTNEY & MANN, L.L.P. PO BOX 100 1881 HOLTVILLE

ROAD WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-567-2545

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 20 and 27, 2024 2024-060

PUBLIC NOTICE

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Johns and Kirksey, Inc., has completed the Contract for, Holtville High School Roof Upgrades, Deatsville, Alabama, Elmore County Board of Education, Wetumpka, AL, Owner, and has made requesttract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials or otherwise in connection with this subject should immediately notify PH& J Architects, 807 S McDonough Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 in order to avoid Barring of Claims by Law.

JOHNS AND KIRKSEY, INC. 5424 Metro Park Drive Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35405

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 20, 27 and Apr. 3, 2024 COMPLETION PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER FORECLOSURE NOTICE

WHEREAS, default has occurred in the performance of the covenants, terms and conditions of a mortgage from WEAVER INVESTMENT PROPERTIES LLC to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS MORTGAGEE, AS NOMINEE, FOR LIMA ONE CAPITAL, LLC, on the 14th day of September, 2021, said mortgage recorded Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, on September 22, 2021, in Deed/Mortgage Book 2021, Page 80408, Elmore County,

gy Alabama Records, said Mortgage having subsequently been transferred and assigned to Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, not in its individual capacity, but solely as Owner Trustee of MFA 2022-RTL1 Trust, by instrument recorded notice is hereby given that the undersigned Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, not in its individual capacity, but solely as Owner Trustee of MFA 2022RTL1 Trust, 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 in Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on April 10, 2024, during the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: LOT NO. 551, BLOCK 50, ON PLAT NO. 2, ACCORDING TO MAP AND PLAT PREPARED BY WILLIAM R. SIZEMORE, SURVEYOR, OF PROPERTY KNOWN AS TALLASSEE MILLS, WEST TALLASSEE SUBDIVISION, DATED MARCH 31, 1951, AND RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OFMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN PLAT BOOK 3, PAGE 126. Said legal description being controlling, however the property is more commonly known as 105 GILMER AVENUE, TALLASSEE, AL 36078 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 property will be sold on an “as is, where is” basis, subject to any easements, encumbrances, and exceptions those contained in the records Probate in the county where the above-described property is situated. This property will be sold subject to the right of redemption of all parties entitled thereto and subject to any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, whether or not now due and payable). This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. 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. Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, not in its individual capacity, but solely as Owner Trustee of MFA 2022-RTL1 Trust, Mortgagee/Transferee THE BELOW LAW FIRM MAY BE HELD TO BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, UNDER FEDERAL LAW. IF SO, ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.

Rubin Lublin, LLC, Attorney for Mortgagee/Transferee 3145 Avalon Ridge Place, Suite 100, Peachtree Corners, GA 30071 Telephone Number: (877) 8130992 Case No. LMA-23-048233 Ad Run Dates: 03/13/2024, 03/20/2024, 03/27/2024 rlselaw.com/property-listing Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 20 and 27, 2024 228019

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS ITB NO. 2024-01

Elmore County Emergency Communications District 8917 U.S. Hwy 231 Wetumpka, AL 36092

Elmore County Emergency Communications District is issuing an Invitation to Bid (ITB) to for two (2) Radio Towers and Related Equipment in Elmore County, AL. A mandatory prebid conference will be held on March 27th, 2024 at 10:00 AM Local Time (CDT) at the Elmore County EOC located at the address above. Sealed proposals will be received on April 10th, 2024 until 2:00 PM Central Time at the above address, at which time there will be a public bid opening. Award will be made only to competent and responsible bidders as mandated by Title 39 of the Code of Alabama who have thetions as set forth in the bid docrequired. Proposal documents may be requested at the above address during regular business hours or by emailing your request to lee.moore@911consult.com.

Elmore County Emergency Communications District reserves the right to reject any/ or all proposals, waive any informality in the proposals received, and to accept any proposal which, in its opinion may be in the best interest of Elmore County Emergency Communications District. Chris Dozier, 911 Director – Elmore County Emergency Communications District Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 20 and 27, 2024 BIDS

PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Brandon Barnett, unmarried man, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Hamilton Mortgage Corporation, on March 19, 2021, said mortgage recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, in the undersigned Freedom Mortgage Corporation, as Mortgagee/Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the CourtCounty, Alabama, on March 28, sale, all of its rights, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot Number Two (2) indivision as the same appears of Elmore County, Alabama in informational purposes: 1780

WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, WITHOUT TO TITLE, USE AND/OR EN-

TIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price plus any deed recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law at the address indicated below. the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation.

Freedom Mortgage Corporation, (“Transferee”) Tiffany & South, Suite 300, Homewood, AL 35223 www.tblaw.com TB File Number: 23-05385

24-00379 PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA HORN STEPHEN W, Plaintiff, V. Case No.: DR-2023-900275.00 HORN NANCY LYNNE, Defendant.

Order on Service by Publication It is hereby ORDERED as follows:

1. That the Plaintiff shall have the below notice published for four (4) consecutive weeks in the Wetumpka Herald or a similarly situated publication of general circulation in Elmore County, Alabama.

2. That the Plaintiff shall be taxed with the cost of such publication.

3. That it is the responsibility of the Plaintiff to submit this Order of Publication to be run in the Wetumpka Herald or similarly situated publication of general circulation in Elmore County, Alabama.

4. That AFTER THE LAST PUBLICATION, the publisher or pub-

facts of publication with a certi-shall constitute proof of service. “NANCY LYNN HORN, whose whereabouts are unknown, is required to answer the Complaint for Divorce and/or other relief requested by STEPHEN W. HORN within THIRTY (30) DAYS, or thereafter default judgment may be rendered against NANCY LYNN HORN in case DR-2023-900275.00 Elmore County Circuit Court.

DONE this 9th day of February, 2024.

/s/ BILL W. LEWIS CIRCUIT JUDGE

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 21, 28, Mar. 6 and 13, 2024 DR-2023-900275.00 PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Iris C Ballard, a married person and Arthur D Ballard, a married person, originally in favor of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., on November 21, 2006, said mortgage record-

gg of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in RLPY Book 2006 Page 88959; the undersigned GITSIT Solutions 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,

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. GITSIT Solutions LLC, (“Transferee”) Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., 2501 20th Place South, Suite 300, Homewood, AL 35223 www.tblaw.com TB File Number: 24-01569-KO-AL Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 6, 13 and 20, 2024 24-00428 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 thirty (30) 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: Feb. 21, 28 and Mar. 6 and 13, 2024 DV-2023-900375.00

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS RESILIENT FLOORING BID FOR UP 60,000 SQUARE FEET FOR THE ELMORE COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION WETUMPKA, AL BID NO: 24-008

Sealed proposals shall be received for this project by Mr. Richard Dennis, Superinten-

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices

p dent, at the Elmore County Robison Drive, Wetumpka, Alabama, on Thursday, April

Time, then opened and read

aloud.

The project shall be bid excluding taxes. Sealed Bids must be submitted on Company letterhead. No bid may be withdrawn after scheduled closing for receipt of bids for a period reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owners judgment, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted.

payable to Elmore County School District in an amount of the amount of the bid, but in must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and statutory labor and material payment bonds will be required at the signing of the Contract.

All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Architect. All bidders shall show such evidence by clearly displaying current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered.

All RFIs regarding the bid documents shall be sent and addressed through emails only. of work in Project Manual. Suproper supervision of all work.

Superintendent, Elmore Countyson Drive, Wetumpka, Alabama

For questions and to obtain a bid package contact Mike Czerpak at 334-567-1420 or mike.czerpak@elmoreco. com.

BIDS PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice to Contractors

Debris, Removal, Reduction, and Disposal Following a Declared Disaster Alabama Department of Transportation Southeast Region –Montgomery Area Autauga, Bullock, Butler, Dallas, Elmore, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Montgomery, Russell Counties

Sealed bids will be received by the Alabama Department of Transportation until 10:00 am on Friday, April 12, 2024, and at that time publicly opened for a retainer contract for debris removal, reduction, and disposal following a declared disaster, in the Southeast Region, Montgomery Area. The bid opening will take place at the Alabama Department of Transportation, Southeast Region, Montgomery

holding a current Alabama State license are invited to bid. This contract is for the purpose of re-tractor whose services would be employed in the event of a hurricane or other declared disaster.

be inspected and/or obtained at the following locations: Alabama Department of Transportation Southeast Region – Montgomery Area Montgomery, AL 36110 Phone: (334) 241-8560

Digital copies can be found under the “Special Notice to https:// alletting.dot.state.al.us/

Sealed bids may be mailed or delivered directly to the Owner prior to the bid opening. Such sealed bids must be clearly and legibly marked “Debris Removal, Reduction, and Disposal Following a Declared Disaster – Montgomery Area” on the outside of the envelope.

responsible, and highest ranked bid will be accepted with key consideration based upon theer, the Alabama Department of Transportation reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any irregularity in the bids received, and to accept or reject any items of the bid for No conditional bids will be accepted.

No bid may be withdrawn for a period of thirty (30) days after the scheduled closing date and time for the receipt of bids.

Transportation Director

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 20 and 27, 2024

BIDS/DEBRIS REMOVAL

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA BOULDER BROOK, LLC, Plaintiff, v. A TRACT OF LAND: Lot No. 49 of the Kingswood Subdivision located in Section 4, Township 17 North, Range 17 East, situated and being in Elmore

Public Notices

g County, Alabama and, Fictitious Defendants A, B, C, D…through Z are individuals, corporations, companies, partnerships, and/or other legal entities claiming or that may claim any future, reversionary, remainder, or other interest therein, who may claim any future, reversionary, remainder, or other interest therein, who may claim any interest in the above described property, Defendants. CASE NO.: CV-2023-900148.00 ORDER OF NOTICE BY PUBLICATION

in the Circuit Court of Elmore County, Alabama, on or about June 20, 2023, averring that

unknown to the Plaintiff which

Public Notices

pp ing 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.

ARTHUR WOODROW FAULKNER, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF SHANA LEE FAULKNER, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: ROBERT J. MORRIS

ATTORNEY AT LAW 10365 HOLTVILLE ROAD DEATSVILLE,ALABAMA 36022

334-569-1820

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 28, Mar. 6 and 13, 2024

EST/FAULKNER, S.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KAREN M. HEALEY, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-052 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Public Notices

Public Notices

ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of DEAN A. MACK, deceased, having been granted to BEVERLY T. MACK on February 21, 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.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PATTI SUZANNE PHILLIPS, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-044 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Lot No. 49 of the Kingswood Subdivision as shown by plat made by Ralph H. Hays, Registered Land Surveyor, dated November 5, 1971, and Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama in Plat Book 7, Page 37.

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of KAREN M. HEALEY, deceased, having been granted to THOMAS L. HEALEY, JR. on Febraury 28, 2024 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereb 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.

THOMAS L. HEALEY, JR., PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF KAREN M. HEALEY, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: MARK EDWARD SMITH ATTORNEY AT LAW 631 SOUTH PERRY STREET MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36104 334-834-8100 mark@msmith.law

JOHN THORNTON JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL,

BEVERLY T. MACK PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF DEAN A. MACK, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: ED PARISH, JR. THE PARISH LAW FIRM P O BOX 52 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36101-0052 323 ADAMS AVE MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36104 334263-0003

Letters of Administration over the Estate of PATTI SUZANNE PHILLIPS, deceased, having been granted to NATHAN PHILLIPS on February 21, 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.

NATHAN PHILLIPS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF PATTI SUZANNE PHILLIPS, DECEASED

CV-2023-900148.00 PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CHARLES WILLIAM BENNETT, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-062 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of CHARLES WILLIAM BENNETT, deceased, having been granted to DANNY EARL BENNETT on March 7, 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.

DANNY EARL BENNETT PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF CHARLES WILLIAM BENNETT, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: TERRY P. WILSON WILSON & JACKSON, LLC 1785 TALIAFERRO TRAIL SUITE 6 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36117 334-260-9998 tpwlaw@protonmail.com

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 20 and 27, 2024 EST/BENNETT, C. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PAUL JEFFERSON BRANTLEY, CASE NO: 2024-056 DECEASED NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration with Will Annexed over the Estate of PAUL JEFFERSON BRANTLEY, deceased, having been granted to DANIEL J. BRANTLEY on the 29th day of February, 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.

DANIEL J. BRANTLEY ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF PAUL JEFFERSON BRANTLEY, DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL. JR. LLC POBOX 638 MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-9444 Jerry@GADanielLaw.com

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 6, 13 and 20, 2024 EST/BRANTLEY, P. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SHANA LEE FAULKNER, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-031 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of SHANA LEE FAULKNER, deceased, having been granted to ARTHUR WOODROW FAULKNER on February 21, 2024 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties hav-

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 6, 13 and 20, 2024 EST/HEALEY K.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JULIE HIGHT, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-059 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JULIE HIGHT, deceased, having been granted to EMILY LAMBERT and JOANNA SANDERS on the 4th day of March, 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.

EMILY LAMBERT and JOANNA SANDERS CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ESTATE OF JULIE HIGHT, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Co-Personal Representatives: MONICA G. MANN COURTNEY & MANN, L.L.P. PO BOX 100 1881 HOLTVILLE ROAD WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-567-2545

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 20 and 27, 2024 EST/HIGHT, J. PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH WAYNE HONN, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024-049 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to MICHAEL WAYNE HONN and VICKI LYNN CLARKSON as Joint Personal Representatives on the 28TH day of February 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.

MICHAEL WAYNE HONN VICKI LYNN CLARKSON JOINT PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH WAYNE HONN, 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: Mar. 6, 13 and 20, 2024 EST/HONN, K. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF TYRONE HUGHES, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024-055 NOTICE OF FILING OF PETITION FOR SUMMARY DISTRIBUTION OF ESTATE

TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES: CORDY MARIE SMITH HUGHES, PETITIONER, has -

EST/HUGHES, T. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MICHIKO K. JOHNSON, CASE NO: 2024-042 DECEASED NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of MICHIKO K. JOHNSON, deceased, having been granted to BILLY JOHNSON on February 22, 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 JOHNSON ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF MICHIKO K. JOHNSON, DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: DAVID B. HUGHES CAPELL & HOWARD. PC 150 SOUTH PERRY STREET MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36104 P O BOX 2069 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 361022069 334-241-8000

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 28, Mar. 6 and 13, 2024 EST/JOHNSON, M PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLAIM D. JONES, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-008 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of WILLIAM D. JONES, deceased, having been granted to TONY MILLER on March 1, 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.

TONY MILLER PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM D. JONES, DECEASED.

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: ROBERT H. PETTEY SAMFORD & DENSON, LLP 709 AVENUE A OPELIKA, ALABAMA 36801 PO BOX 2345 OPELIKA, ALABAMA 36803 334-745-3504

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 6, 13 and 20, 2024 EST/JONES, R. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RITA FINLAYSON JONES, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-025 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of RITA FINLAYSON JONES, deceased, having been granted to JARED FINLAYSON JONES on February 27, 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.

JARED FINLAYSON JONES PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF RITA FINLAYSON JONES, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: MICHAEL S. HARPER ATTORNEY AT LAW 213 BARNETT BLVD PO BOX 780608 TALLASSEE, ALABAMA 36078 334-283-6855

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 6, 13 and 20, 2024

EST/JONES, R.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DEAN A. MACK, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-028 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 28, Mar. 6 and 13, 2024 EST/MACK, D. PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF AUTAUGA COUNTY ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF CHERYL LYNN HUDSON MCMILLAN, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2023-010 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

TAKE NOTICE that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION having been granted to JAMES E. WILSON, JR., as Administrator of the ESTATE OF CHERYL LYNN HUDSON MCMILLAN, deceased, on the 17th day of January, 2023, by the Honorable Kimberly G. Kervin, Judge of Probate. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

James E. Wilson, Jr Administrator of the Estate of Cheryl Lynn Hudson McMillan

James E. Wilson, JR. Attorney 732 Carter Hill Rd. Post Of-

Wetumpka Herald: EST/MCMILLAN, C.

Looking for a home?

Look in our classifieds section and learn of great deals for you and your family.

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BRIDGETTE RENEE MITCHELL, CASE NO: 2024054 DECEASED NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of BRIDGETTE RENEE MITCHELL, deceased, having been granted to KARLA ANN WOODRING on February 29 th , 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.

KARLA ANN WOODRING ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF BRIDGETTE RENEE MITCHELL, 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 Herald: Mar. 6, 13 and 20, 2024 EST/MICHELL B.

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 TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of BARBARA J. NOBLES, deceased, having been granted to FARRAH D. SPIVEY on March 1, 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. FARRAH D. SPIVEY, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF BARBARA J. NOBLES, 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: Mar. 13, 20 and 27, 2024 EST/NOBLES, B.

Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: D. JASON BRITT STONE & BRITT, LLC ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS AT LAW 1145 Main Street PO BOX 967 Wetumpka, AL 36092 334-517-6520

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 28, Mar. 6 and 13, 2024 EST/PHILLIPS P. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE DOUGLAS VANSANDT, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-036 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of GEORGE DOUGLAS VANSANDT, deceased, having been granted to MARK D. VANSANDT on February, 21, 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.

MARK D. VANSANDT PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE DOUGLAS VANSANDT, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL, JR. LLC P O BOX 638 MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-9444 Jerrv@GADanielLaw.com

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 28, Mar. 6 and 13, 2024 EST/VANSANDT, G. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BRADYN STEVEN WHITE, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-045 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters of Administration in the Estate of BRADYN STEVEN WHITE, deceased, having been granted to JASMINE MERRITT on the March 5, 2024, by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

JASMINE MERRITT ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF BRADYN STEVEN WHITE, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator:

MICHAEL J. CROW BEASLEY, ALLEN, CROW, METHVIN, PORTIS & MILES, P.C. PO BOX 4160 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36103-4160 334-269-2343 Mike.crow@beasleyallen.com

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 20 and 27, 2024 EST/WHITE B. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JESSE HENRY WISENER, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-033 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JESSE HENRY WISENER, deceased, having been granted to STANLEY JEROME WISENER and MARVIN CARY WISENER on the 20th day February 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.

STANLEY JEROME WISENER and MARVIN CARY WISENER CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ESTATE OF JESSE HENRY WISENER, DECEASED Attorney of Record for

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices

y Co-Personal Representatives: JAMES R. BOWLES

ATTORNEY AT LAW 2 South Dobois Avenue PO BOX

780397 Tallassee, Alabama

36078 334-283-6548

Wetumpka Herald:

Feb. 28, Mar. 6, and 13, 2024

EST/WISENER, J. PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage dated April 14, 2023, executed by David D. Johnson Jr., a single man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., solely as nominee for Hope Federal Credit Union, which mortgage was recorded on April 19, 2023, in RLPY Book 2023, Page 15918, of the mortthe Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, and which mortgage was duly transferred and assigned to Hope Federal Credit Union, 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 Main entrance to the Elmore County Courthouse at Wetumpka, Alabama, during the legal hours of sale on April 10, 2024, the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 2, of the South Millbrook Subdivision as shown by Plat made by P.J. Jennings, Registered Land Surveyor of December 15, 1969, which said the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 4, at Page 82.

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. Hope Federal Credit Union

Transferee

Robert J. Wermuth/jmm

Padgett Law Group 4245 Balmoral Drive SW, Suite 101 Huntsville, AL 35801 Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 6, 13 and 20, 2024 FC/JOHNSON, D. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF:

ABIGAIL CALLIS CASE No. JU-2021-145.03 NOTICE OF PETITION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

TO: GARY SHANE CALLIS (Father) You are hereby given notice that

ABIGAIL CALLIS

You are hereby given notice

Public Notices

bate, Elmore County, Alabama, attached as Exhibit “A” under Consent Order entered in the Circuit Court CA# 29-CV-2020-

Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC under Consent Order in the Circuit Court CA# 29-CV-2020and recorded on 5/18/2021 in in Elmore County, Alabama and default having continued under the terms of said Mortgage, and by virtue of Alabama Code Secfollowing described real property will be sold at public outcry, for cash, to the highest bidder, in front of the Courthouse door of said County, during the legal

DIVISION AS RECORDED

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE ORDINANCE NO. 2024-1

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE SPEED LIMITS FOR NORTH BRIDGE STREET

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE City Council of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama, as follows:

Section 1. No person shall operate a motor vehicle at a speed miles per hour on North Bridge Street, from the southern end of the roadway at its intersection with West Bridge Street to the northern end of the roadway at its intersection with the Highway -

Section 2 above, Section 78-136 paragraph (1) is hereby deleted in its entirety and the following shall be added to Section 78of the City of Wetumpka, to wit: Insert the following paragraph

“(5) On North Bridge Street, from the southern end of the roadway at its intersection with West Bridge Street to the northern end of the roadway at its intersection with the Highway 14 Bypass (Coosa River Parkway).”

. Any former Ordi-sions of this Ordinance is hereby repealed.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE ORDINANCE NO. 2024-3

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE DEFINE USAGE OF CROMMELIN PARK

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE City Council of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama, as follows:

Section 1. Section 66-9 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Wetumpka adopted on October 6, 2014 by Ordinance number 2014-11, is hereby deleted, and the following substituted in its place;

Section 2. Crommelin Park, which is located in Meadowbrook Subdivision, shall be open daily to the public from dawn to dusk and during such extended hours as may be scheduled and approved through the Mayor’s

Section 3. Unless scheduled and approved through the Wetumpka, it shall be unlawful for any person to occupy or be present in either park during any time in which the park is not open to the public.

Section 4. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the park. No persons shall carry, possess, or drink any alcoholic beverage while in either park.

Public Notices

Public Notices

April 17, 2024, at 1:30

P.M. at the Elmore County Judicial Complex in Wetumpka, Alabama

CLERK

JU-2021-145.03 PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE NOTICE

Default having been made in the terms of that certain Mortgage, executed on 04/21/2006, by Gena L. Norris, an unmarried woman, and Mary F. Norris, an unmarried woman, as Mortgagors, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Countrywide Home Loans, Inc. as Mortgagee, which said Mortgage is recorded in -

GINNING.

Subject to all easements, restrictions and reservations appearing of record. Said sale will also be made subject to anycial Assessments of any nature, if any, which might adversely affect the title to the property. 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. is, where is”. Said property is sold without warranty or recourse, expressed or implied as to title, use or enjoyment.

pose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure.

ment or cancellation.

feree 126 Government Street

FC/NORRIS

PUBLIC NOTICE MONITORING NON-COMPLIANCE NOTICE

The Holtville Water System is required to monitor yourtaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring are an indicator of whether or not your drinking water meets health standards. During January March 2024, we did not monitor for disinfection byproducts (DBP) during the required time frame, and therefore cannot be sure of the quality of your drinking water during that time. Because DBPs from these quarters will be used in determining compliance with DBP MCLs in the quarters of April – June 2024, July-September 2024, and October December 2024, the Holtville Water System will incur monitoring violations for those quarters. Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.

This was result of a mixup in dates between Holtville Water System and the testing lab. The samples that were supposed to be taken on the second Wednesday of January were actually taken on the third Wednesday. The results of those samples were well within the perameter of safe drinking water. These samples are taken and tested every 3 months. It is Holtville Water System’s conclusion in this matter that there was no threat to customer safety. Should you have any questions concerning this non-compliance or monitoring requirements, please contact: Greg Welch, General Manager at 334-569-2105 or by mail at Holtville Water System, Inc. Attn. Greg Welch, 10048 Holtville Rd. Deatsville, AL 36022 Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 2024 NON-COMPLIANCE

Section 4. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. Should any section, sub-section, schedule, or provision of this Ordinance for any reason be declared void or invalid, such action shall have no effect on the remaining provisions of this Ordinance.

. This Ordinance shall become effective upon approval and publication as required by law.

on this, the 4th day of March, 2024.

Signed: Jerry Willis, Mayor Tiffany Robinson, City Clerk Wetumpka Herald:

ORD 2024-1 PUBLIC NOTICE ORDINANCE NO. 2024-2 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE SPEED LIMITS FOR PUBLIC PARKS AND SPORTS COMPLEXES

BE IT ORDAINED BY THE City Council of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama, as follows:

Section 1. No person shall operate a motor vehicle at a speed per hour at or within any of the City Parks or Sports Complex Areas, including, but not limited to, all entry and exit ways from such areas and any and all parking lot areas therein or adjacent thereto.

Section 2. Pursuant to the above, Section 78-131 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Wetumpka is hereby amended as follows:

Section 78-131 with the following: “(5) In a residence district and Insert the following paragraphtion 78-131:

Section 3. Any former Ordi-sions of this Ordinance is hereby repealed.

Section 4. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. Should any section, sub-section, schedule, or provision of this Ordinance for any reason be declared void or invalid, such action shall have no effect on the remaining provisions of this Ordinance.

. This Ordinance shall become effective upon approval and publication as required by law.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED on this, the 4th day of March, 2024.

Signed: Jerry Willis, Mayor

Tiffany Robinson, City Clerk Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 2024 ORD 2024-2

PUBLIC NOTICE

Auction: First Stop Auto is having a public auction. On March 26 2024, time 8:30am. Location: 45 Sarah Dr Wetumpka Al 36092.

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13 and 20, 2024 PUBLIC AUCTION

Section 5. A violation of this ordinance by any person in either park shall constitute a Trespass and the person so violating this ordinance shall be subject to being charged with a Violation and subject to issuance of a citation for trespass. If found guilty, such person shall be plus court costs and a sentence of up to 30 days in jail. Should any damage to City property be caused by such person during such trespass, such person may be also ordered to pay restitution.

Section 6. Appropriate Signage shall be erected in each park stating the park is open daily to the public from dawn to dusk and also appropriate signage shall be placed in each park totions 4 and 5 above.

Section 7. Any former Ordi-sions of this Ordinance is hereby repealed.

Section 8. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. Should any section, sub-section, schedule, or provision of this Ordinance for any reason be declared void or invalid, such action shall have no effect on the remaining provisions of this Ordinance.

Section 9. This Ordinance shall become effective upon approval and publication as required by law.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED on this, the 4th day of March, 2024.

Signed: Jerry Willis, Mayor Tiffany Robinson, City Clerk Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 2024 ORD 2024-3

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Wetumpka Self Storage, 4057 US Hwy 231, Wetumpka, AL 36093 334-567-5000, will sell or dispose of the misc household goods in the following units on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 beginning at 8:00 am located at: Wetumpka Self Storage: 935 Ft Toulouse Rd, Wetumpka, AL 36093 Unit 3066: Brittany James, 170A Cashion Avenue, Wetumpka AL 36092 To satisfy liens in accordance with the Self Storage Act of 1981 and lease agreement, tenant may pay off lien with CASH prior to auction to reclaim their goods.

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13 and 20, 2024 STORAGE AUCTION

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDINANCE 2024-4

AN ORDINANCE ANNEXING

194.30 +/- ACRES OF REAL

PROPERTY IN SECTION 5, T-18-N, R-19-E, AND SECTION 32 T-19-N, R-19-E INTO THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE CITY OF WETUMPKA, ALABAMA

WHEREAS, on the 25th day of January 2024, SHRUB HUB, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company, being the owner of all the real property hereinafter Clerk of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama a petition requesting that said tract of land be annexed to and become a part of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama; and WHEREAS, said petition did contain the signatures of all the owners of the described lands and provided a map of the property showing its relationship to the corporate limits of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama; and WHEREAS, the governing body did determine that it is in the public interest that said property be annexed to the City of Wetumpka, Alabama and it did further determine that all legal requirements for annexing said real property have been met pursuant to Sections 11-42-20 through 11-42-24, Code of Alabama 1975; NOW BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WETUMPKA, ALABAMA AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. The Council of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama,islative body of the City of Wetumpka that it is in the best interests of the citizens of the City of Wetumpka, and the citizens of the affected area, to bring the territory described in Section 2 of this ordinance into the City of Wetumpka’s corporate limits. Section 2. That the boundary lines of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama, be and the same are hereby altered or rearranged so as to include all of the territory heretobefore encompassed by the corporate limits of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama, and in addition thereto the following described territory, to wit: BEGIN AT THE 6” x 6” CONCRETE MONUMENT MARKING THE SW CORNER OF SECTION 32, T19N, R19E, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA; THENCE NORTH 02 DEG 32 MIN 17 SEC WEST ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION A DISTANCE OF 1699.32 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR CAPPED S.D. MARTIN, 11726 AT A FENCE CORNER; THENCE NORTH 87 DEG 26 MIN 04 SEC EAST A DISTANCE OF 1322.98 FEET TO A 3/4” CRIMP TOP; THENCE NORTH 88 DEG 03 MIN 30 SEC EAST A DISTANCE OF 1000.58 FEET TO A 1/2” CRIMP TOP; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEG 24 MIN 42 SEC EAST A DISTANCE OF 430.28 FEET TO A 1/2” CRIMP TOP; THENCE SOUTH 05 DEG 42 MIN 09 SEC EAST A DISTANCE OF 551.89 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR CAPPED MARTIN AT A FENCE CORNER; THENCE SOUTH 05 DEG 36 MIN 40 SEC EAST A DISTANCE OF 689.33 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR AT A FENCE CORNER; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEG 21 MIN 19 SEC EAST A DISTANCE OF 287.31 FEET TO A 5/8” REBAR MARKING THE NW CORNER OF CHEROKEE ESTATES REVISED SUBDIVISION AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 7, AT PAGE 114 IN THE PROBATE OFFICE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA; THENCE SOUTHERLY ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID CHEROKEE ESTATES REVISED SUBDIVISION THE FOLLOWING NINE (9) CALLS: (1) SOUTH 07 DEG 47 MIN 24 SEC EAST, 209.01 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (2) SOUTH 11 DEG 52 MIN 25 SEC EAST, 100.04 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (3) SOUTH 08 DEG 16 MIN 47 SEC EAST, 199.54 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (4) SOUTH 02 DEG 08 MIN 00 SEC EAST, 84.62 FEET; (5) SOUTH 07 DEG 28 MIN 43 SEC EAST, 130.00 FEET; (6) SOUTH 08 DEG 48 MIN 43 SEC EAST, 100.27 FEET TO A 5/8” REBAR; (7) SOUTH 09 DEG 34 MIN 45 SEC EAST, 100.46 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (8) SOUTH 08 DEG 14 MIN 00 SEC EAST, 502.59 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (9) SOUTH 08 DEG 25 MIN 37 SEC EAST, 261.90 FEET TO A 3/4” PIPE SAID PIPE MARKING THE NE CORNER OF AN UNDEVELOPED SUBDIVISION, CHEROKEE ESTATES-FIRST ADDITION AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 8, PAGE 30, IN THE PROBATE OFFICE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA; THENCE WESTERLY ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SUBDIVISION AND AN OLD FENCE LINE THE FOLLOWING TWENTY (20) CALLS: (1) SOUTH 77 DEG 27 MIN 14 SEC WEST, 50.05 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (2) SOUTH 82 DEG 12 MIN 05 SEC WEST, 128.48 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (3) SOUTH 87 DEG 15 MIN 48 SEC WEST, 106.51 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (4) SOUTH 87 DEG 21 MIN 41 SEC WEST, 116.20 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (5) SOUTH 86 DEG 49 MIN 56 SEC WEST, 109.71 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (6) SOUTH 86 DEG 06 MIN 26 SEC WEST, 109.34’ TO A 1/2” REBAR; (7) SOUTH 86 DEG 19 MIN 43 SEC WEST, 109.72 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (8) SOUTH 86 DEG 53 MIN 26 SEC WEST, 109.91 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (9) SOUTH 86 DEG 53 MIN 55 SEC WEST, 110.09 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (10) SOUTH 86 DEG 31 MIN 03 SEC WEST, 109.39 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (11) SOUTH 86 DEG 57 MIN 53 SEC WEST, 109.93 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (12) SOUTH 86 DEG 01 MIN 37 SEC WEST, 109.25 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (13) NORTH 88 DEG 34 MIN 43 SEC WEST, 111.08 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (14) NORTH 87 DEG 50 MIN 23 SEC WEST, 110.89 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (15) NORTH 87 DEG 51 MIN 30 SEC WEST, 110.65 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (16) NORTH 88 DEG 12 MIN 13 SEC WEST, 109.06 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (17) NORTH 88 DEG 31 MIN 08 SEC WEST, 219.44 FEET TO A 1/2” REBAR; (18) SOUTH 88 DEG 57 MIN 53 SEC WEST, 207.45 FEET; (19) NORTH 87 DEG 48 MIN 35 SEC WEST, 353.54 FEET; (20) NORTH 87 DEG 18 MIN 13 SEC WEST, 205.36 FEET TO A 3/4” CRIMP TOP ON THE WEST LINE OF SECTION 5, T18N, R19E; THENCE NORTH 07 DEG 03 MIN 39 SEC WEST ALONG THE SAID WEST LINE A DISTANCE OF 1612.28 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. SAID PARCEL CONTAINING 194.30 ACRES MORE OR LESS AND LYING IN AND BEING THE SW1/4 OF THE SW1/4, A PORTION OF THE NW1/4 OF THE SW1/4, A PORTION OF THE NE1/4 OF THE SW1/4, A PORTION OF THE SE1/4 OF THE SW1/4 ALL IN SECTION 32, T19N, R19E, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA AND NW1/4 OF THE NW1/4, THE NE1/4 OF THE NW1/4, A PORTION OF THE SW1/4 OF THE NW1/4, AND A PORTION OF THE SE1/4

OF THE NW1/4 ALL IN SECTION 5 T18N, R19E, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA.

Section 3. Such above-described territory shall be and is hereby zoned R-1 Low Density Residential District. Section 4. This ordinance shall be published as provided by copy of the petition of the propthe Probate Judge of Elmore County, Alabama. Section 5. The territory described in this ordinance shall become a part of the corporate limits of Wetumpka, Alabama upon publication of this ordinance as set forth in Section 4, above. ADOPTED THIS THE 4th DAY OF March, 2024. Signed: Jerry Willis, Mayor ATTEST: Tiffany Robinson, City Clerk Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 2024 ORD 2024-4 PUBLIC NOTICE Notice to Contractors Federal Aid Project No. STPAA-0143(505) ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA Sealed bids will be received by the Director of Transportation

and are set forth in the adver-

and

erty

the

City of Wetumpka, Alabama; and WHEREAS, the governing body did determine that it is in the public interest that said property be annexed to the City of Wetumpka, Alabama and it did further determine that all legal requirements for annexing said real property have been met pursuant to Sections 11-42-20 through 11-42-24, Code of Alabama 1975; NOW BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WETUMPKA, ALABAMA AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. The Council of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama,islative body of the City of Wetumpka that it is in the best interests of the citizens of the City of Wetumpka, and the citizens of the affected area, to bring the territory described in Section 2 of this ordinance into the City of Wetumpka’s corporate limits. Section 2. That the boundary lines of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama, be and the same are hereby altered or rearranged so as to include all of the territory heretobefore encompassed by the corporate limits of the City of Wetumpka, Alabama, and in addition thereto the following described territory, to wit: PARCEL 1 of 2 Commence at the Northeast corner of Section 11, T-18-N, R-18-E, Elmore County, Alabama; thence run S00°00’00” E, 539.04 feet to a point; thence run N90°00’00”W, 589.71 feet to a set 5/8” rebar, GMC Cap #CA00156 lying at the northeast corner of the Turner property as recorded

Probate, Elmore County, Alabama in Real Property Book 2001 at Page 03115, and the West right of way of Nolen Lane (40’ prescriptive ROW); thence run along said West right of way S00°36’05”E, 447.21 feet to a found 5/8” rebar; thence continue along said West right of way S02°32’51”E, 157.84 feet to a point, said point being the Point of Beginning; thence continue along said West right of way S02°32’51”E, 327.30 feet to a point; thence continue along said West right of way S09°55’47”E, 129.06 feet to a found 3/8”

Public Notices

rebar with Burke cap lying at the northwest corner of the Fuller property as recorded inbate, Elmore County, Alabama in Real Property Book 2003 at Page 54415; thence leaving said right of way, run along the west line of the Fuller property S01°23’51”E, 280.40 feet to a found 5/8” rebar lying at the Southwest corner of said Fuller Property and the Northwest corner of Alfa Properties, LLC as recorded

Probate, Elmore County, Alabama in Real Property Book 2004 at Page 58674; thence run along the West line of said Alfa Properties, LLC property S01°48’13”E, 30.74 feet to a point lying on the East line of the aforementioned Turner property; thence run along said boundary line of Turner property S88°17’38”W, 407.17 feet to a found 5/8” rebar; thence continue along said Turner boundary line N00°46’50”W, 766.33 feet to a found 5/8” rebar, GMC cap #CA00156; thence continue along said Turner boundary line N88°18’30”E, 372.98 feet to the Point of Beginning. Said described property lying and being situated in the Northeast quarter of Section 11, T-18-N, R-18-E, Elmore County, Alabama and containing 6.889 acres more or less. PARCEL 2 of 2 Commence at the Northeast corner of Section 11, T-18-N, R-18-E, Elmore County, Alabama; thence run S00°00’00”E, 539.04 feet to a point; thence run N90°00’00”W, 589.71 feet to a set 5/8” rebar, GMC cap #CA00156 lying at the Southeast corner of Pine View Perpetual Cemetery property as County, Alabama on Card 011811 and the West right of way of Nolen Lane (40’ prescriptive ROW), said point being the Point of Beginning; thence run along said West right of way S00°36’05”E, 447.21 feet to a found 5/8” rebar; thence continue along said west right of way S02°32’51”E, 157.84 feet to a point lying at the Northeast property as recorded in thebate, Elmore County, Alabama in Roll 23, Frame 159; thence leaving said West right of way run along the North property line of said Nolen property S88°18’30”W, 372.98 feet to a found 5/8” rebar, GMC Cap #CA00156 lying at the Northwest corner of said Nolen property; thence run along the West line of said Nolen property S00°46’50”E, 766.33 feet to a found 5/8” rebar lying at the

Public Notices

yg Southwest corner of said Nolen property; thence run along the South line of said Nolen property N88°17’38”E, 407.17 feet to a point lying at the Southeast corner of the Nolen property and the West line of the Alfa Properties, Inc. property as recordof Probate, Elmore County, Alabama in Real Property Book 2004 at Page 58674; thence run along said West Line S01°48’13”E, 721.79 feet to a bent axle lying at the Southwest corner of said Alfa Properties, Inc. and the Northeast corner of Cotton Lakes Plantation, LLC proper-

County, Alabama on Roll 181, Frame 3199; thence run along the North line of said Cotton Lakes Plantation property

S89°43’25”W, 400.93 feet to a found 3/8” rebar lying at the Northwest corner of said Cotton Lakes Plantation, LLC and the Northeast corner of Cotton Lakes Plantation, LLC property as recorded in the Elmore County, Alabama on Roll 180, Frame 2944; thence run along the North line of said Cotton Lakes Plantation, LLC S89°31’47W, 1421.71feet to a found 2’ iron lying at the Southeast corner of the Weed property as recorded Probate, Elmore County, Alabama on Roll 75, Frame 1169; thence leaving said North property line, run along the East line of said Weed property N01°26’06”W, 2092.90 feet to a found ½” lead pipe lying at the Southwest corner of aforementioned Pine View Perpetual Cemetery; thence leaving said East line of Weed property, run along the South line of said Pine View Perpetual Cemetery N89°35’29E, 1796.02 feet to the Point of Beginning. Said described property lying and being situated in the Northeast Quarter of Section 11, T-18-N, R-18-E, Elmore County, Alabama and contains 79.897 acres more or less. Section 3. Such above-described territory shall be and is hereby zoned R-3 Medium Density Residential District and shall be subject to the following restrictions: (1) All rear loaded lots shall have a minimum home size of 1,500 square feet of heated and cooled space; and (2) All traditional lots shall have a minimum home size of 1,800 square feet of heated and cooled space and shall have an attached two car garage. Section 4. This ordinance shall be published as provided by copy of the petition of the prop-

Public Notices

the Probate Judge of Elmore County, Alabama. Section 5. The territory described in this ordinance shall become a part of the corporate limits of Wetumpka, Alabama upon publication of this ordinance as set forth in Section 4, above.

ADOPTED THIS THE 4th DAY OF March, 2024.

Signed: Jerry Willis, Mayor

ATTEST: Tiffany Robinson, City Clerk

Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 13, 2024 ORD 2024-5 PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice to Contractors Federal Aid Project No. STPMN-2624(250) ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Sealed bids will be received by the Director of Transportation -

Public Notices

on the decision to award this contract.

Plans and Proposals are avail-

portation. Plans and Proposals

and are set forth in the adver-

lations.

ny each bid as evidence of good faith.

bids.

of Transportation.

Public Notices

-sponse to this invitation and willconsideration for an award. is reserved.

Transportation Director

STPMN-2624(250)

Raise your hand if you want your business to make LESS money next year.

We didn’t think you would. Do you need to successfully market on a tight budget? Tallapoosa and Elmore County Classifieds has customizable programs available to fit any budget. DON’T WAIT! Call TODAY 256.277.4219

Stanhope Elmore’s Anderson thriving in leadoff role

Hayden Anderson is taking a new role on Stanhope Elmore’s baseball team.

Only a sophomore, Anderson is in the midst of his second season starting at shortstop for the Mustangs. But instead of being a role player at the bottom of the lineup like he did as a freshman, he’s now the team’s leadoff and he’s excelling in that role.

He has led off in 12 of the 14 games Stanhope Elmore has played, and led off all five of the Mustangs’ games last week. In those five games, Anderson went 6-for-14 with seven walks, one hit-by-pitch and scored nine runs. He also had one double and one RBI.

For his performance in the leadoff spot, Anderson is this week’s Elmore County Player of the Week.

“He’s been doing a good job in the leadoff spot and playing shortstop this year,” Mustangs coach DK Shuman said. “I’m proud of the way he’s developed and I think he’s doing a good

Shawn Colvin’s senior wrestling season was cut short due to suffering a concussion, but he got one last chance to wrestle on Saturday.

Colvin suffered a concussion in the Super Sectionals Tournament early in February and was forced to miss the state tournament after qualifying in the 144-pound class. The Elmore County senior thought his career was over, but he got a call on Friday morning asking him to join the Alabama Wrestling Coaches Association’s second annual North/South AllStar duals tournament as a member of the South team.

He wrestled Saturday morning in the 150-pound class against Tallassee’s Ethan Jones, his best friend, and lost 12-2 via major decision.

“It really was an honor to be selected as an All-Star,” Colvin said. “It was fun to wrestle with all these great wrestlers. I also got to wrestle my best friend in my last high school match so that was really cool.”

Colvin took to the mat and matched Jones early on in a close match. The two went back-andforth, with Jones taking a 2-0 lead

job for a young kid being put into the role he’s in this year.”

Last season, Anderson mostly hit in the eight-hole in the lineup. He was the starting shortstop all season, but he was on a team filled with college-bound seniors who led the way for multiple years.

That included Troy’s Colton Walls, South Alabama’s Zach Stevens and Jacksonville State’s Colin Woodham among four other players now at the college level.

So with a large senior class bursting at the seams with talent, Anderson sat back and just enjoyed being part of the ride.

This year, however, he’s the most experienced player and

after the first period on a single takedown. In the second period, Jones earned another takedown but Colvin was able to get on the scoreboard with an escape.

That was as close as it got as Colvin’s endurance got to him in the third period. Not having wrestled in almost a month to the date, he wasn’t in wrestling shape and wasn’t able to get into wrestling shape after being asked to join.

He wrestled in the event just 24 hours after being asked to participate. He tried to get some conditioning in on Friday, but was unable to get back to his normal self.

“I took it on a day’s notice,” Colvin said. “I’m not in the best shape I could have been, but it was still a lot of fun. I did a little bit of conditioning on Friday, but it wasn’t enough. There just wasn’t enough time.”

Colvin was able to earn one final escape in the final seconds of the match, but Jones had already wrapped up the match by then.

Nonetheless, Colvin ended his senior campaign as an exclusive member of the All-Star team which featured just 28 boys from across the state of Alabama.

He ended his senior year with a 17-13 overall record.

he’s having to play like it.

He’s done exactly that through 14 games this year. He has a .325 batting average, good for second best on the team. He also has a .509 on base percentage with 13 hits, 12 walks and three hits-by-pitch.

“He’s had to take a lot of that leadership role even though he’s still a baby and just a sophomore,” Shuman said. “I try not to ask too much of him, but he’s done a good job of keeping it simple and not letting the weight of his role mess with his performance. I do think he still

has a few steps to take when it comes to vocal leadership.”

His performance makes up for the vocal leadership that is still a work in progress.

Of the normal starters, he has the team’s highest on-base percentage at .509. In 55 plate appearances, he has 13 hits –six doubles and a triple. He leads the way in walks and runs scored with 15, one of only two Mustangs in double digits.

In a win against Greenville on Thursday night, Anderson went 0-for-1 at the plate but walked twice and was hit by a

pitch once. He scored twice.

“He’s very disciplined at the plate,” Shuman said. “He’s not chasing a lot and he doesn’t swing at bad pitches. You always want to try and start every inning with a base runner, and him leading the team in OBP shows why he’s at the top of the lineup.”

Anderson doesn’t just get on base with singles, however. The slugger has seven of the team’s 16 extra-base hits, while no other player has more than two.

He has six doubles on the season, three more than the next closest player.

He also has one triple, one of only two players on the team to hit one.

So not only is he getting on base, but he’s getting into scoring position on half of his hits so far.

“When he does get a pitch in the zone, he does a good job of getting his bat on the ball and giving himself a chance,” Shuman said. “He’s a strong kid so when he barrels one up, it’s a hard hit ball. You always like your chances when you hit the ball hard.”

Blakely nabs dream job as Holtville wrestling coach

Connor Blakely has landed his dream job.

After four seasons as an assistant coach at three schools, Blakely has been hired as the head wrestling coach at Holtville, his alma mater.

Blakely graduated from Holtville in 2014, where he wrestled and played football for the Bulldogs. Out of college, he was a volunteer assistant coach at Prattville Christian for a season then at Benjamin Russell for a season.

Since 2022, he has been back home at Holtville.

“This is my dream job since I got into teaching and coaching,” Blakely said. “Being a wrestling guy from Holtville, it’s always been my goal to coach here. I’m super excited for the opportunity. This is home for me. Being from here, it means a little more to try and grow on what coach (David) Lovering has done with the program.”

Blakely has coached and played under some of the best minds in wrestling.

In high school, he was coached by both Hunter Adams and Jared Sellers. In his first coaching job, he volunteered under PCA coach Trent Staggs and Ben Russell’s Michael Ransaw, both of whom have brought their current programs tons of success.

Lastly, he coached under Lovering and is going to try and take every style he’s learned and turn Holtville’s

Saturday, March 16

Wetumpka at Dothan (DH),

program into his own.

“I’ve learned so much from a lot of really good coaches,” Blakely said. “I’ve learned how to wrestle and manage a program from them, and things like that will help me be successful moving forward.”

For Blakely’s style of coaching, he really wants two major things: for the kids to feel comfortable in his program and to fall in love with wrestling the way he did growing up.

Within those two things, he will bring intensity to the program and try to turn Holtville into a wrestling school. He knows it has the potential to do so, and it all starts with the culture

“You have to build up the idea and aura of wrestling in the school,” Blakely said. “You have to make it fun and cool.

Wrestling isn’t like the Big 3 sports you watch on the TV like baseball, football and basketball, but it’s a sport you can really get into once you watch it. You just have to change the misconceptions and highlight how good of a sport it is.”

Holtville has always had a

good wrestling program, and that’s still the case in 2024.

This past season, while young, Holtville turned in a good season. The Bulldogs had seven wrestlers qualify for the super sectionals tournament and senior Sam Segarra went on to qualify at the state tournament in Huntsville.

Five of the seven wrestlers who competed for Super Sectionals return next season. That group is led by rising senior Tyson Ratliff who had 30 wins this season. Sophomore Rutledge Rogers had 22, while sophomore Max Simpson, freshman Rhett Owens and eighth grader Hudson Mann all qualified for supers.

Blakely knows his team can build off that.

“We are going to work really hard this offseason,” Blakely said. “We are really young. We had 15 seventh graders and over 20 kids from seventh to ninth grade. That’s a good thing to build off. We have some guys with a lot of potential and I’m really excited about the direction we’re headed.”

DALTON MIDDLETON | TPI
Elmore sophomore Hayden Anderson scored nine runs in five games last week as he recorded six hits and walked seven times.
SPORTS CALENDAR
DALTON MIDDLETON TPI
Elmore County’s Shawn Colvin wrestled Tallassee’s Ethan Jones in the ALWCA North/South All-Star Duals Tournament held at Huntingdon College. Colvin finished his senior season 17-13 overall and was a state qualifier.
SUBMITTED | TPI
Holtville’s Connor Blakely coaches the junior varsity team at the county duals tournament this season. Blakely has been named the varsity’s head coach, replacing David Lovering.

Commission approves projects for Eclectic, Holtville and Tallassee

More quality of life projects are coming to Elmore County.

At its Monday meeting the Elmore County Commission committed $20 million and in kind services to projects in Eclectic, Holtville and Tallassee. The funds will install artificial turf on the football fields at Elmore County High School, Holtville High School and at Tallassee’s J.E. “Hot” O’Brien Stadium. It also includes artificial turf installations at the baseball and softball fields at Elmore County and Holtville high schools. Tallassee will see the construction of a new recreation center if the city can find a way to move the public works department.

“I think this is an excellent opportunity to work with our partners,” commissioner Mack Daughtery said. “We have a great education system, law enforcement and quality of life.”

The commission is partnering with the Elmore County Board of Education, the Town of Eclectic and the City of Tallassee on the projects.

The commission also approved agreements with Dalhoff Thomas and Seay, Seay Litchfield to design the projects. They are the same firms involved in the design of 17 Springs in Millbrook. Some of the projects could start this fall according to Elmore County chief operating officer Richie Beyer.

The commission recognized Wetumpka High School wrestlers Willie Cox, Christian Preston and Noah Smith and Elmore County High School wrestlers Myles Eyerly and Tyler Payton for winning AHSAA state championships.

The commission also recognized 25 Elmore County residents who completed CERT training just before the meeting.

The commission held a public hearing for comments for a consolidated waste management program with Autauga County. There were no verbal comments. Any comments from both counties, written or spoken, will be compiled and presented to the commissions of the two counties during consideration of the consolidated program.

IN OTHER ACTION THE

ELMORE COUNTY COMMISSION:

• Approved minutes of the Feb. 26 meeting.

• Approved a memorandum of warrants in the amount of $2,001,299.66 for Feb. 17 to March 1.

• Authorized an agreement with ALDOT for widening and resurfacing of Jackson Road, Old Ware Road and Peace Church Roade from Rifle Range Road to Redland Road.

• Approved the surplusing of sheriff’s department vehicles sale through GovDeals.com.

The next scheduled meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 5 p.m. March 25.

From Millbrook to the French Riviera

Cannes, Monaco and custom perfumes are within reach with the Millbrook Chamber of Commerce.

Colette Travels has partnered with the chamber to make a special trip to the French Riviera possible.

“One of the neatest things is the perfume market,” Millbrook Chamber of Commerce director Brenda Dennis said. “People pay a lot of money to walk away with their own signature perfume. I think it is pretty cool that it is included in the price of this trip.”

The trip starts Oct. 24 with flights starting in Montgomery. The next stop is Nice, France, and will be home base for more than a week.

There are trips to seaside villas, Saint-Honorat Island, Monaco and beyond. There is even an option to extend the trip in Paris to end the experience.

Colette has been working with chambers of commerce across the country for years. The Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce has now taken two trips with Collette. Dennis said she spoke with Shellie Whitfield about Wetumpka’s experience and did her own research.

“They are pros at this,” Dennis said. “You stay at the nicest hotels and they are really good at making sure you are well taken care of.”

Someone from the travel agency will be with the group the entire time on the trip. Collette’s trips are also even used on game shows such as Wheel of Fortune.

“They are a very established travel agency,” Dennis said. “They are family owned. They have been around a long time. They work with a lot of chambers and provide opportunities for us to offer these trips.”

Dennis’ research found a chamber in Arkansas that has been traveling with Collette for 20 or more years. They are now taking two and three trips per year.

“In the beginning when they started they had people sign up that didn’t know each other,” Dennis said. “Now 20 years later, they are calling each other up to see if the others are going. They were people on opposite sides of the country.”

Dennis said while those on the trip may not always be members of the chamber, the trip still fits the mission of a chamber of commerce.

“We bring people together,” Dennis said.

Keep safe over spring break

STAFF REPORTS

TPI Staff

With spring break coming up soon for local schools, many families will soon be heading to the beach.

Tallapoosa County

EMA director Jason Moran said the Baldwin County EMA has reached out to every EMA office across Alabama asking for us to share the importance of beach safety, especially with rip currents deaths being high in 2023.

The Orange Beach and Gulf Shores tourism has provided a few tips for families to stay safe this spring break and for future summer vacations.

Check weather and surf conditions daily Individuals can call 251-968-SURF for Gulf Shores, 251-981-SURF for Orange Beach or visit the VisitALBeaches.com/ safety website.

Know your limitations

Don’t overestimate your swimming abili-

ties and don’t rely on inner tubes, floats or other inflatable toys. Non-swimmers should stay out of the water. Use Coast Guard approved life jackets and never swim alone. Designate a water-watcher and supervise children closely.

Swim near a lifeguard Lifeguards are stationed seasonally at all public beaches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach March through September. Currently, no lifeguard protection is available in the Fort Morgan area

Sign up for daily beach conditions text alerts Text “ALBEACHES” to “888777” and text “STOP” to opt out of notifications upon your departure.

Know and heed the beach warning flags Yellow means moderate surf and/or currents. Purple is dangerous marine life. Red is high surf and/or strong currents and double red means water closed to the

Local author on Amazon Best Seller List

A local author is on Amazon’s Best Seller List.

It was 8-years ago when Randy Sewell and his nephew were riding through a small town, and they saw an old house that looked like something straight out of a horror story. That is when the two began to imagine twisted plotlines that could be set inside a house like the one they had passed. Sewell and his nephew started sharing the scary tales for fun and as a way to pass the time, but little did he know that it would set him on a path that would take him to Amazon’s Best Seller List.

“I wasn’t even thinking about writing a book, but it hit me like a brick wall, and I had to write it,” Sewell said. “This story. It just hit me, and I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I kept adding more to it. I couldn’t stop until I completed it. Now, I am six books in."

Sewell authored his first book, “Down the Dirt Road," in 2017 and has continued working on the series for the last seven years.

Sewell, who uses the pen name Livell James, escapes through his writings.

city of Shreveport.”

According to Sewell, he is always brimming with ideas for his book's storylines, and he often finds inspiration from the creativity of others.

"I've always had a flair for creativity, and it doesn't take much to set it off," he said. "I can spot something, and it would ignite my imagination. Observing other people's creativity also fuels my own. I enjoy being around other creative individuals as it motivates me to be imaginative."

This love for fellow creators led Sewell and his wife, Michelle, along with their friend and co-host Tammie Smith to organize the Capital City Author Event in 2019. It is a conference for authors of nearly every genre, held at the Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center in Montgomery each year.

Sewell has always been a storyteller, through various media, and it was looking through a viewfinder that led him to focus on writing and hosting the Capital City Author Event.

“I started as a photographer in the book world in 2014,” Sewell said.

Not long after, he began designing book covers.

grew,” Sewell said. There are over 80 authors lined up for this year’s event.

While Sewell specializes in writing paranormal shifter and vampire romance books, he is constantly seeking creative outlets.

“My mind is a creative place,” Sewell said. “I always have so much going on. I always have to have something to do. I have to find some way to express my creativity, and this lets me do that beyond anything that I have been able to do.”

Sewell, who lives in the Wetumpka/Millbrook area, is a Tallassee native.

“I was born in the old hospital, across the river,” he said with a chuckle.

For many years, Sewell and his family lived in the Red Hill area of Eclectic. When he isn’t writing or planning for the next Capital City Author Event, Sewell keeps his creative juices flowing through photography, and with his latest project, Hippie Dude Creations.

“I make tumblers and swag for other authors, keychains, bookmarks, t-shirts for kids, and more,” Sewell said.

public.

Learn how to escape a rip current

Rip currents are powerful currents of water moving away from shore. They can sweep even the strongest swimmer away from shore. If caught in a rip current, remain calm and escape the current by swimming parallel to the shoreline. When free of the current, swim at an angle — away from the current — toward shore. Float or tread water if unable to escape by swimming. If unable to reach shore, draw attention to yourself by facing the shore and calling or waving for help. Know what to do if someone else is in danger First, call 9-1-1. Then seek help from a lifeguard; if no lifeguard is present, yell instructions on how to escape the current. Throw the victim something that floats and don’t attempt to perform a rescue as you could also get caught in the current.

“It takes me away from the real world,” he said. “When I start writing, I lose myself in the story. I picture in my mind what I am writing as I write it. I don’t plot. I write as I go, and the story comes to me as I am writing it. I make up worlds. In my vampire series, I created the whole world. It’s set in Louisiana and there is an entire city below the

“We went to events all over the United States, book conferences,” Sewell said.

It was during these travels that the Sewell’s were inspired to host a similar conference in Alabama.

It didn’t take long and the Sewell’s were collaborating with other authors to host a local book conference.

“One thing led to another, and it just

Since being added to Amazon’s Best Seller List, Sewell said he is grateful for the dedicated readers of his publications.

“I am very thankful for all the support,” he said. “When I first wrote a book, I wasn’t expecting anyone to read it. Just one person wanting to read it made me feel good and inspired me to write more, and I appreciate it.”

A stroll down memory lane

Wetumpka seniors recreate kindergarten character walk

Another chapter has been written for sisters Pinkalicious and Purplicious.

Thirteen years ago they graced the halls of Wetumpka High School as Gracie Hankins and Josephine Yarboro. The ‘sisters’ returned last week and are a little older just like the series of books, now at 63 volumes. It was an easy choice of costume more than a decade ago.

“We were best friends and we fit the characters very well,” Hankins said.

The story is a little different for Yarboro.

“What she means is she told me I was going to be Purplicious because she claimed Pinkalicious,” Yarboro said.

Pinkalicious and Purplicious were created by sisters Victoria and Elizabeth Kann. The books are aimed at ages 4-8 and are based on Victoria's

two daughters and their love for the color pink. The stories center around Pinkalicious’ imagination. The halls of Wetumpka Elementary School were full of imagination Friday.

Many of the Wetumpka High School Theater Guild were there too — all dressed as Disney princes and princesses, but not the ‘sisters.’

“I put on Purplicious of nostalgia and not wanting to put on a felt dress,” Yarboro said. “I love the Snow White dress, but it is all felt and hot.”

The character parade was part of the school’s Read Across America Week.

The Pinkalicious and Purplicious sisters and Disney princesses and princes joined Harry Potter, Thing 1 and Thing 2, superheroes of all sorts and even Waldo.

Three Blind Mice were Hankins’ mother and principal Gigi Hankins and other administrators. They used their walking aides to clear the middle of the hallways to allow the hoop dresses of the Disney princesses.

“See how they run,” Hankins said.

CARMEN RODGERS | TPI
Randy Sewell, who uses the pen name Livell James, at the Prattville Library for a book signing.

Elmore County baseball goes 2-1 in FCA Tourney

The Elmore County baseball team had an impressive showing in Montgomery this week.

The Panthers played in the 31st annual Jason Armstrong Memorial Baseball Classic hosted by the Alabama Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Elmore County played three games– two at Paterson Field and one at Riverwalk Stadium – and went 2-1 with wins over Pike Road and LAMP and a loss to Trinity.

The Panthers defeated Pike Road, 4-3, on Monday then turned around and beat LAMP, 7-0, on Tuesday. They then suffered their first loss of the season to Trinity on Thursday, 6-5, on a walkoff bases-loaded walk.

“We played really well this week,” Panthers coach Michael Byrd said. “The first two games, we were clean defensively and everyone played well. We pitched well and made plays defensively. Today, we made errors on routine balls and walked too many guys. That was the difference.”

The Panthers have only played eight games this season, so Byrd wanted to make sure he got some pitchers some innings. Southpaw ace Brandon White pitched Game 1 against Pike Road, while Dalton Fuller and Ryals McNeely each came in and pitched in relief.

Jaden Eason pitched a complete game in Game 2, then ‘Johnny Wholestaff’ took the mound in Game 3.

Shelton Darnell started and went 3 ⅓ innings before Hayden Jones pitched 2 ⅓ innings. McNeely came in and pitched one full inning and suffered the loss

with the walkoff.

“We really wanted to get experience for our guys on the mound so we threw three guys who haven’t pitched much this year,” Byrd said. “Ryals has been closing for us, but he doesn’t have a lot of innings. We just wanted to approach this week to get some depth because we’re only two weeks away from starting area play.”

Byrd got some depth, but he also got exactly what he wanted out of White and Eason.

In the 4-3 win over Pike Road, White took to the mound and faced Prep Baseball Report’s No. 7-ranked team in Class 6A. White didn’t care about rankings as he went out and dominated the Patriots.

The lefty tossed six complete innings of no-hit baseball. He walked three Pike Road batters, but he struck out six as he held onto a 4-0 lead when he exited after 89 pitches.

In Game 2, Eason came in and pitched a complete game in a six-inning affair. He struck out seven batters and walked only one Tiger in the 7-0 win. He allowed just two hits and threw 53 of his 82 pitches for strikes.

White has four outings so far this season. He has allowed just one earned run in 17 innings and struck out 28 batters. Eason has taken to the mound three times and allowed just six hits in 11 innings and has yet to allow a run.

“Brandon and Jaden both have good stuff and they pound the zone,” Byrd said. “They’re going to challenge batters and not get behind in counts. People don’t take many good swings on them. When you have good stuff and work ahead like they do, you’ll have some good outings.”

LACK OF WATER ONLY TEMPORARY IN ECLECTIC

Some residents along

Highway 63 south of Eclectic are without water. Others are experiencing low pressure. But it is temporary.

The issue started Wednesday as Eclectic Water Works started work near a decommissioned water tank on Highway 63 to meet an ADEM regulation for drinking water systems.

“They have a requirement that if you are not using a tank, it has an air gap between the supply lines and the tank,” Eclectic Mayor Gary Davenport said. “We hadn’t done that. We had just turned it off. That is what started all this is we started putting in the air gap and found these other lines.”

As the tank was disconnected, a nearby leak was discovered. It was repaired Wednesday only to discover another nearby leak. It was repaired early Thursday morning but by

sunrise, water had flooded a nearby pasture.

“We think there was another line that we connected to that had a crack in it or either the repairs we did didn’t hold and we have to go back in and tighten everything,” Davenport said.

Crews were working through lunch Thursday. A section of 8-inch pipe was removed to allow inspection and reconnection of joining hardware.

In the meantime, those south of the tank are with little to no water. Davenport estimates about 25 different water meters

were impacted. Everyone is hopeful this set of repairs solves the issue. The long range repair is to bypass the issue all together. It is far more expensive and would require a bidding process. To do so also requires permitting from ALDOT to install the waterline along the roadway. It would be a necessary remedy if the Town of Eclectic does anything with the property. “This site could be used for something else,” Davenport said. “We might move a town department there. We might sell it to somebody.”

Eclectic Elementary celebrates Read Across America

DALTON MIDDLETON | TPI
ABOVE: Elmore County’s Shelton Darnell pitches against Trinity in the FCA Tournament held at Riverwalk Stadium in Montgomery.
BELOW: Elmore County shortstop Hayden Jones catches a pop up against Trinity at Riverwalk Stadium.
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI
Town of Eclectic crews are joined by private contractors to repair a leaking water main Thursday. The nearby water tank has been out of operation for at least 10 years.
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.