Millbrook
$20 million to be spent on public projects in Elmore County
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Wetumpka man led police on chase to Montgomery and back
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
A 32-year-old Wetump-
ka man is still in jail after a January arrest for felony attempting to elude, reckless endangerment, driving under the influence, resisting arrest and possession of drug paraphernalia.
When he was finally stopped by spike stripes, the open can of beer in the console of James Dylan Renner’s vehicle was still cold. His case was before Elmore County District Court Judge
Glen Goggans for a preliminary and bond hearing Tuesday. The Wetumpka Police Department was running speed radar operations near Burger King on U.S.
he was not responsible. There is other information we can’t disclose now but I don’t think it’s beneficial to Mr. Wilson.”
Chamber holds luncheon welcoming members
Elmore County is growing. Businesses are opening. Schools are looking at needing additional space. The courts are adding two judges.
By Cliff Williams Staff Writer
Wilson was released on a $6,000 bond 90 minutes after turning himself in accord ing to the Elmore County Jail website.
Dennis said Wilson also coached other sports at Holt ville schools including being the head track coach and assis tant football coach.
Dennis said other staff would fill in for the duties of Wilson at Holtville while he is on administrative leave.
The growth has led to the construction of 17 Springs in Millbrook with the idea lodging taxes could sustain quality of life projects across the county. And things are looking good.
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.
Creating tomorrow’s first responders
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
“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
Elmore County High School junior Patrick Hart has known what he wants to do for a career for a long time.
As a child, Hart envisioned himself as a superhero he saw in cartoons and movies. But that changed.
“I was obsessed with superheroes,” Hart said.
“I thought I was going to become one. One day the Friendship Fire Department came flying past my
house with those big red trucks. I said they were real life superheroes.”
See CHAMBER, Page A3
A few years later he was volunteering at the department. He now pulls hose and controls nozzles from outside fires.
“I’m too young still to go inside a fire,” Hart said.
The story is much the same for Stanhope Elmore junior Zylan Foulks, though he wants to be a police officer. He followed a mentor and is volunteering on weekends and
of Our Home Town” luncheon. CLIFF WILLIAMS/ THE HERALD
By Jake Arthur Chief Videographer
CHAMBER HONORS LOCAL BUSINESSES
UNDER THE STARS
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
The stars came out Saturday as the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce honored exemplary local businesses.
For the first time in several years, the chamber brought back a formal banquet and businesses of the year. Shellie Whitfield has been the director of the chamber for five of its 35 years.
ty of our size,” Whitfield said. “They are more than members. They are involved.”
42 of Tallassee, dead of a gunshot wound in the driver seat of his vehicle.
Whitfield said the chamber held ribbon cuttings throughout the last year and each one was “awesome.”
According to Wetumpka police chief Greg Benton, this was not a random shooting.
“There is something special about standing next to someone who has invested in our community to make their dream of a business come true,” Whitfield said. “The businesses are amazing and they chose us.”
“It has been an honor and privilege to work with so many wonderful people here for the greater good,” Whitfield said. “We have seen incredible and positive change all across Elmore County.”
“This was not random, not a random act,” said Benton. “We believe the victim and the perpetrator knew each other.”
This is the first homicide in Wetumpka in over three years. The last homicide in the city took place in 2018.
“It’s not a good way to start out the new year,” said Benton.
Whitfield highlighted several of the programs and functions of the chamber including the Rise and Shine Coffee.
Holtville’s Futral Alabama principal of the year
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.
“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 chamber has 310 members and added 68 members in the last year.
“It is crazy for a communi-
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
“Just a couple years ago, we were lucky to have 10 people show up,” Whitfield said. “Now we have more than 50 people that show up. A lot of great relationships are created casually over a cup of coffee.”
shift in a positive direction. The school experienced a 62 percent decrease in discipline referrals, 50 percent decrease in chronic absenteeism, 7 percent increase in the graduation rate, 33 percent increase in CCR rate and a 20 percent increase in ACT proficiency in the last five years.
See PRINCIPAL, Page A3
Chamber director of membership and marketing Andrew Stieb announced 2024 Small Business Awards, which recognize exemplary leadership, unwavering community support, active chamber involvement and notable success in the business community. To keep the selection process from being a popularity contest an out-of-state group made the selections based on criteria established by Alabama Chambers, the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama.
Benton didn’t want to speculate on the
See SHOOTING, Page A3
Lil’ Farmhouse Market was selected as the emerging business having been open less than five years.
“This year’s award winner celebrates a remarkable journey, marked by resilience,
WILSON
Members of the Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce attend the chamber’s “A Taste
SUBMITTED TPI
Quality of life projects in Eclectic funded by the Elmore County Commission included a road south of Eclectic Elementary School.The road will surround athletic fields.The Town of Eclectic will seek grants to fund the construction of a walking trail the town owns near the fire department.
CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI
Lil’ Farmhouse Market’s Lana Hebert, center, poses with Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce’s Andrew Stieb after the business was named the 2024 Emerging Business.
RENNER See CHASE, Page A7
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI
Elmore County Technical Center public safety instructor Fitzgerald Sheppard gives students a review lesson on taking blood pressure last week. The programs goal is to introduce students to careers in firefighting and law enforcement.
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Millbrook child porn case goes to grand jury
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
A Millbrook man is facing two counts of production of obscene acts of a person under 17 years old, five counts of possession of child porngraphy and one count of sex abuse of a child under the age of 12. But after testimony in a preliminary hearing Monday, more charges could be coming.
The Millbrook Police Department started to investigate James C. Mengal, 55, after a tip from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Internet Crimes Against Children department. Millbrook investigators determined a phone belonging to Mengal uploaded images that were flagged as child pornography.
On Feb. 2, a search warrant was served on Mengal’s residence and electronic devices
Police Reports
WETUMPKA POLICE
DEPARTMENT
MARCH 12
• An animal bite was reported on Marshall Street.
MARCH 11
• Theft was reported on Cotton Lakes Boulevard.
TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT
MARCH 17
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Barnett Boulevard.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Highway 229,
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Highway 229.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Gilmer Avenue.
• A Black male was arrested during a domestic dispute call on Hillcrest Street.
were seized including two cell phones and a computer.
Mengal gave a statement to investigators. “He admitted to downloading child porngraphy,” investigator Zach Sumerlin said. “He had been doing it for about two years.”
Sumerlin said the current charges against Mengal were from images and videos on two phones. One was used at the time of Mengal’s arrest and the other was found in Mengal's night stand. Two videos were found of a young child approximately 7 years old. One was from May 2023 when Mengal assisted the young girl in putting on a bathing suit. The camera was aimed at the girl’s genitalia. The other video showed
Paxton Drive.
• An arrest was made during a domestic incident call on Grimes Street.
• A domestic incident was reported on Sims Avenue.
• A juvenile complaint was reported on Carr Street.
• A suspicious person was reported on North Ann Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Freeman Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.
• An arrest was made during a traffic stop on Gilmer Avenue.
MARCH 15
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Noble Road.
• An animal complaint was reported on Central Boulevard.
Mengal rubbing the girl’s buttocks and assisting in putting on underwear. He then touched the girl’s genitalia. Sumerlin said Mengal admitted to filming the girl to protect himself from being accused of doing anything.
“He also admitted to watching the videos over and over again,” Sumerlin testified.
Sumerlin said investigators were still going through the computer seized in the search.
“There were 100s of tabs open to porn sites,” Sumerlin said.
“There were a large number of files. Currently we have found 1,000 or images that could be considered as porngraphy and we are still going through it.”
Elmore County District Court Judge Glen Goggans bound the case over to an Elmore County Grand Jury for possible indictment. Goggans also left Mengal’s bond set at $255,000 cash.
accident with no injuries was reported on Tallassee Highway.
• A disabled vehicle was reported on Friendship Road.
• A hit and run accident was reported on Weldon Road.
• A Black male was arrested during a traffic stop on Little Road.
• A welfare check was conducted on Barnett Boulevard.
• Disorderly conduct was reported on Freeman Avenue.
MARCH 13
• An intoxicated person was reported on Highway 14.
• A fight was reported on James Street.
• A noise complaint was reported on Claire Street.
• Assistance was given to another agency on Highway 229.
• A domestic incident was reported on Carr Circle.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Benson Drive.
• A white male was arrested on Herd Street.
• A Black male was arrested during a domestic dispute call on Second Avenue.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Rickey Lane.
MARCH 11
• Harassment was reported on Sims Avenue.
• Theft was reported on Claire Street.
• A Black male was arrested on Central Boulevard.
• Assistance was given to another agency on Gilmer Avenue.
• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue.
• A white male was arrested during a traffic stop on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Central Boulevard.
• Assistance was given to the Tallassee Fire Department on Macedonia Road.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Jordan Avenue. MARCH 16
• Harassment was reported on West Patton Street.
• A noise complaint was reported on Herd Street.
• A domestic incident was reported on Washington Street.
• An animal complaint was reported on
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Rosemere Drive.
• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A motor vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Notasulga Road.
• Assistance was given to a citizen on Little Road.
MARCH 14
• Harassment was reported on Gladys Street.
• Panhandling was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• A welfare check was conducted on Friendship Road.
• A motor vehicle
• An animal bite was reported on Friendship Road.
• A welfare check was conducted on Third Street.
• A white male was arrested on Little Road.
• Harassment was reported on West Gantt Mill Road.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Gilmer Avenue.
• Assistance was given during a medical call on Hillcrest Street.
MARCH 12
• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue.
• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.
• Debris was reported in the roadway on Gilmer Avenue.
• A suspicious person was reported on Central Boulevard.
• A domestic dispute was reported on Honeysuckle Lane.
• Reckless driving was reported on Highway 229.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Comer Lane.
• Assistance was given with a gas leak that was reported on South Tallassee Drive. MARCH 10
• Assistance was given to a motorist on Patterson Street.
MENGAL
Humane Society of Elmore County News
Poison prevention important for pets too
By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director
This is National Poison Prevention Week and while we all certainly need to be knowledgeable to protect our families, our pets also need protection from accidental poisoning. The Pet Poison Helpline is a valuable resource and below are the most common poison risks to our pets (and also to our children):
1. Over-the-counter medications such as Ibuprofen, naproxen, cold medications and herbal supplements. Make sure to keep all medications out of paws’ reach and check
with a veterinarian before giving any new medication (prescription or not) to your pet.
2. Human prescription medications such as ADHD medications, antidepressants and heart medications are in many homes and need to be kept out of reach of pets..
3. Food items and ingredients such as xylitol, grapes, raisins, onions and garlic.
4. Chocolate! Keep candy and baked goods away from your pets.
5. Veterinary products mostly due to accidental or unintentional exposures. Many pet medications are flavored so pets may
mistake these for treats. Giving medicine meant for one pet, or for another species (dog topical flea products are deadly if put on cats), to another accidentally is also possible so make sure to know what you are giving your pet. And remember a “childproof container” does not mean it is pet-proof.
6. Household items including paint, glue and cleaning products are often too easily accessible.
7. Rodenticides & Insecticides. Remember that pets, along with rodents, find baits very tasty. Rat or mouse bait ingestion can be deadly for our pets and today’s prod-
ucts are even deadlier than those of years ago.
8. Insecticides include items such as ant baits, bug sprays and yard products. Make sure to read all labels and keep your pets out of the affected area when using any of these products.
9. Indoor and outdoor plants, as well as bouquets, can all be sources of potential problems for pets.
10. Garden products like fertilizers, herbicides and soil enhancements can prove irresistible to a playful pet so watch your pets when you are out working on the lawn or garden.
Elmore County resident denied parole
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
A Deatsville man who pleaded guilty to second-degree receiving stolen property will stay in prison.
The Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles held a hearing March 13 to decide if Robert Wayne Luster, 50, should be released on parole.
According to court records, in June 2021, the Elmore County Sheriff’s found Luster under the
LUSTER
influence and passed out on his bed. On the floor next to the bed was a single shot 12-gauge shotgun that had been reported stolen in Elmore County. Luster pleaded guilty in December 2022 to second-degree receiving stolen property and saw the charge of certain persons forbidden to carry a
Pet of the Week - Jackie
firearm dismissed. He was sentenced to 81 months just a year ago.
According to minutes of a parole hearing held by the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, a family member spoke in favor of Luster’s release.
The board denied parole.
Previously Luster served a 15-year sentence for a 2008 conviction of second-degree assault. In 1997 he had convictions for first-degree theft, burglary and escape. In 1992
Jackie is a female who is about 6 ½ months old. She weighs 40 pounds. She was found as an abandoned, skinny pup and brought to us. Jackie is super sweet, loves toys, great with other dogs and she just loves to cuddle.
The Humane Society of Elmore County’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old. Cats over 1 can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, deworming,
microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam with your participating veterinarian.
If you are interested in meeting Cola or any of the pets at HSEC, the first step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, you will be contacted by someone from the humane society. HSEC is located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. The phone number is 334-567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG OR CAT IS POISONED?
1. Remove your pet from the area.
2. Check to make sure your pet is safe: breathing and acting normally.
3. Collect a sample of the ingested item if possible.
4. Do NOT give any home antidotes.
he had convictions for robbery and possession of forged instrument. Luster is currently incarcerated at the Fountain Correctional Center and due to be released from prison in May 2025.
6. Call the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661.
If in doubt, contact &/ or take your pet to your veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic immediately.
Rea Cord is the executive director of the Humane Society of Elmore County.
5. Do NOT induce vomiting without consulting a vet or Pet Poison Helpline.
In February in Bullock County, his charges were bound over to a grand jury for possible indictment.
Case dismissed
Man accused of smuggling drugs into a prison freed
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
A Montgomery man arrested near the Elmore Correctional Facility in January is no longer facing multiple charges related to smuggling.
Glenn Norman, 36, was taken into custody by Alabama Department of Corrections officials after someone was noticed throwing duffel bags over the fence at the state prison. Prison officials found Norman nearby and charged him with trafficking methamphetamine, marijuana and synthetic drugs, three counts of promoting prison contraband and criminal trespass. He was being held on a $4,534,000 bond.
An Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) officer testified at Norman’s preliminary hearing he saw a person throwing things over the fence and notified his superiors. The officer said he didn’t know what was in the bags.
Court records state the bags contained 1,300 grams of methamphetamine, more than 2,888 grams of marijuana and 160 grams of flocka.
The officer said his superiors took the bags but he was unaware if or what types of drugs were in the bags. No other ADOC officers testified.
Elmore County District Court Judge Glen Goggans conducted the hearing. He said with no testimony in court about the drugs he had no option but to dismiss the case.
“If I heard about the drugs from a witness, I would likely have bound it over to the grand jury,” Goggans said.
The case was dismissed without prejudice meaning the district attorney’s office can still get an indictment but with a direct presentation to an Elmore County Grand Jury.
At the time of Norman’s arrest he was out on bond for a similar incident in Bullock County.
According to court documents, on. Dec. 28, Norman was arrested near Bullock Correctional Facility in Union Springs. There, ADOC officers observed a red Kia Soul that fled a traffic stop.
“After a short vehicle pursuit, the vehicle collided with a tree,” an incident report stated. “The subject fled on foot into a wooded area.”
The vehicle was determined to be stolen and ADOC K-9 units began to search and found Junquincy Thompson hiding in a shed. Thompson told law enforcement he had dropped off two others near the prison.
An ALEA Aviation Unit aided in finding Norman and Jamari Coleman.
The K-9 units found several packages wrapped in tape that contained 28 cellphones, 17 charging blocks, seven wireless earbuds, three wired earbuds, 40 USB cords, two footballs, three bottles containing alcohol, a deck of playing cards, a phone tool kit, a pair of Timberland boots, a pair of Nike shoes, 212 rolling paper packs, 104 Black and Mild cigars, two toboggans, a safety vest, a bottle of lemon juice, a pocket knife, 1,137 grams of green leafy substance, 122 grams of yellowish substance, 462 grams of white powder substance and 25 suboxone strips.
The three individuals were placed in the Bullock County Jail. Norman was charged with possession of a controlled substance, first-degree possession of marijuana and promoting prison contraband.
Norman posted an $8,000 bond and was released.
In February in Bullock County, his charges were bound over to a grand jury for possible indictment.
At the time of Norman’s arrest in Elmore County, officials motioned to have his bond revoked in Bullock County. As of press time, the status of the bond revocation is unknown.
Deck to be replaced in Gold Star Park
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
The observation deck on the Coosa River in Gold Star Park has been torn down.
The City of Wetumpka will replace the deck after the approval of the $68,680 project.
“Several of the deck boards had rotted,” Wetumpka Public Works director Chappell Brown said. “Even some of the structure underneath was rotting.” More issues were discovered in the process of demolition. The pilings were set on top of concrete instead of in it when they were installed.
“The deck was shifting because it was on top of the concrete,” Brown said.
The new deck will have the pilings set in the concrete. Materials will be on site soon for construction to begin.
“It should only take about a week once everything is here,” Brown said.
At the next council meeting
it will take up a measure to replace security cameras at the Wetumpka Civic Center at a cost of $8,200. The current cameras are 12 years old. The newer will be high definition and have the ability to view the footage online.
The council will also consider updating the 2015 building codes building inspectors currently use to 2021.
IN OTHER ACTION THE WETUMPKA CITY COUNCIL:
• Approved minutes of the
March 4 meeting.
• Approved the purchase of a Paratech Air Bag set for a firetruck.
• Approved the purchase of two Xmark mowers and the surplus of two Toro mowers.
The next meeting of the Wetumpka City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, April 1.
Mayor Jerry Willis was absent from the meeting. Mayor pro tem Kevin Robbins conducted the meeting.
Audit is ‘clean’ in Millbrook
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Auditors couldn’t find anything wrong with the financial for the City of Millbrook.
Jackson Thornton’s Craig Newswander delivered the news of the clean 2023 audit to the Millbrook City Council at its Tuesday meeting.
The accountant noted the city’s reserve especially.
“It’s $12.6 million,” Newswander said. “That is 64% of the annual expenses of the city. The city is not teetering on the edge. It is well-funded.”
Newswander said the city budgeted conservatively for fiscal year 2023 and did well. It had budgeted $17 million in revenue but actual revenue was $19 million. Expenses
CommunityCalendar
were budgeted for $13 million and actual expenses were $12 million. The city saw a $1 million increase in sales tax revenue over 2022. Some of the increase comes from taxes on items costing more, but also includes additional sales.
The city spent $2 million paying down debt and spent about $10 million from the sale of warrants.
The city made an $88,000 profit on The Pines Golf Course. New debt from warrants sold in October 2023 are not included in the warrant as the sale was after Sept. 30, 2023. The council created a crew leader position within the parks and recreation department. Currently all positions in the department report to the
parks and rec director. With growth and more employees it was decided a second leadership position was needed. It will also allow for some movement up for some employees.
A truck for the parks and recreation department was authorized by the council. It will be a 2024 Dodge 2500 with a flatbed and will be purchased under a state contract for $49,954.
The Millbrook City Council also approved minutes of the Feb. 27 meeting.
The next meeting of the Millbrook City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 26.
Councilmember Jacquelyn Thomas was absent from the meeting.
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
night is an opportunity to network and unlock potential for business growth. Tickets are $10 per person plus one silent auction item per business. Tickets are for adults only and reserved for small businesses in the area.
THURSDAY, APRIL 18
of Alabama national exhibition from June 1 to June 28. The juried watercolor competition will feature state and national artists.
SUNDAY, JULY 14
MEN’S CONFERENCE: Village Church of Wetumpka is hosting a men’s conference. The keynote speaker is Rick Burgess of Rick and Bubba.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 21
LIVING HISTORY SATURDAY:
Ft. Toulouse-Ft. Jackson is hosting demonstrations of how people lived in the area as settlers began to arrive on Saturday, Sept. 21.
SATURDAY, OCT. 19
LIVING HISTORY SATURDAY:
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
COFFEE & CONNECTIONS: The Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce will host its Rise & Shine Coffee & Connections event at ASE Credit Union. It will be held from 7:30 to 9 a.m. April 18 and is an opportunity for local professionals and community leaders to connect. Coffee will be provided.
SATURDAY, APRIL 20
Ft. Toulouse-Ft. Jackson is hosting demonstrations of how people lived in the area as settlers began to arrive on Saturday, Oct. 19.
NOV. 6-9
ALABAMA FRONTIER DAYS: Ft. Toulouse-Ft. Jackson is holding its annual frontier days with demonstrations for school children and parents about life in Alabama as the area was settled Nov. 6-9.
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.
COMMUNITY CLEANUP: The Reuben Thornton Memorial spring cleanup will be held April 6. Breakfast will be served from 7 to 8 a.m. at the Red Hill Community Center followed by the trash cleanup at 8 a.m. and lunch with live music at Lake Martin Mini Mall from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dumpsters will be located at the Red Hill Community Center and Lake Martin Mini Mall.
THURSDAY, APRIL 11
MIXER & SILENT AUCTION: Paintball 111 in Wetumpka will be hosting a small business mixer and silent auction from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 11. The proceeds will benefit a charitable organization, and the
WAR ENCAMPMENT: Ft. Toulouse-Ft. Jackson is holding its annual French and Indian War Encampment with demonstrations Saturday, April 20.
SATURDAY, MAY 11
SPRING MARKET: Poppy Layne
Farm Vintage will be hosting a Spring Barn Market starting at 10 a.m. May 11. Applications are currently available for interested vendors. Email poppylaynefarm@gmail. com for more information. Live music will be featured.
SATURDAY, MAY 18
LIVING HISTORY SATURDAY:
Ft. Toulouse-Ft. Jackson is hosting demonstrations of how people lived in the area as settlers began to arrive on Saturday, May 18.
ART SHOW: The Wetumpka Downtown Artists will host an art show on Company Street in downtown Wetumpka at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 18.
JUNE 1 - JUNE 28
NATIONAL EXHIBITION: The Kelly Fitzpatrick Center for the Arts in downtown Wetumpka is hosting the 83rd Annual Watercolor Society
ONGOING SUPPORT GROUP: The last Thursday of every month, Restoration 49 Coffee Shop plays host to a support group for parents who have lost a child. The meetings begin at 6 p.m. each month. For more information, please contact Heather Baker at hbakerjj@aol.com.
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME:
After more than a year long hiatus, Preschool Storytime has resumed at the Wetumpka Public Library. The first story time was held on Friday, May 14, and will take place every Friday at the library at 10 a.m.
ECLECTIC TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS: Eclectic Town Council meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at Town Hall. Council meetings begin at 7 p.m. with work sessions taking place prior to the meeting at 6 p.m. Meetings are held in the Dr. M. L. Fielder Municipal Building, 145 Main Street. NAACP MEETINGS: The Elmore County Branch No. 5026 of the NAACP meets at 6:30 p.m. every third Tuesday (executive committee) and every fourth Tuesday (full membership) at the Martin Luther King Center at 200 North Lancaster St. in Wetumpka.
CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI
A deck at Gold Star Park has been demolished by the City of Wetumpka. Parts of it had rotted and the city is preparing to replace it.
community spirit and unwavering dedication,” Stieb said. “They started with humble beginnings as an online venture, this quickly became a vital part of downtown with a focus on diverse, affordable fashion.”
Lana Hebert quickly offered her goods at the Main Street Wetumpka Community Market and last summer opened her shop on Company Street. Restoration Coffee was
selected as business of the year in the category of having one to 10 employees.
“This business is owned by a remarkable duo of Haley and Dylan Daniel,” Stieb said. “Their entrepreneurial spirit has had an impact on our city. It has provided a welcoming space for residents for gatherings and their dedicated staff are supportive of local initiatives and businesses.”
The small business recognized in the category of having 11 to 50 employees was HomeSouth Roofing.
breaks from school at the Waugh/Mt. Meigs Fire Department.
Although both have only been driving less than two years, they have seen so much as they respond to calls.
“I’m already used to seeing CPR and such on adults,” Foulks said. “But when it comes to kids, babies, infants, those are the ones that get you.”
Both students are also in the public safety program at the Elmore County Technical Center with instructor Fitzgerald Sheppard. He is an Autauga County native but was an Orange County Florida firefighter in Orlando for 27 years before retirement. Sheppard has been an instructor at ECTC for almost two years now.
“The benefits of having two volunteers in the class is tremendous,” Sheppard said. “They can put on the class if
PROJECTS
Continued from A1
Now the Elmore County Commission, the Town of Eclectic, City of Tallassee, Elmore County Board of Education, Tallassee City Schools and the Elmore County Economic Development Authority have announced the next round of projects across the county. The commission has authorized the financing with $20 million in cash and more in in-kind services for projects in Eclectic, Holtville and Tallassee.
“I think this is an excellent opportunity to work with our municipalities to make quality of life better,” Elmore County commissioner Mack Daughtery said. “We know people are moving to Elmore County by leaps and bounds. All we have to do is look at our census over the last few years.”
Daughtery is proud of the county’s education systems, law enforcement and quality of life. He wants to make sure progress continues in those areas.
“Those are some of the key factors people are looking for in a community when they are looking at moving,” Daughtery said. “I think this is a great step by the commission.”
In Tallassee the field and practice area at J.E. Hot O’Brien Stadium will get brand new turf as will the baseball, football and softball fields at Elmore County and Holtville high schools. Those projects will likely start first as the design phase is easier than the other projects identified. It will also allow a chance to get better pricing as one contractor will likely get the bid on all fields.
The commission
CHASE Continued from A1
“It exemplifies remarkable growth, unwavering dedication and a resound commitment to both quality workmanship and service,” Stieb said. “Over the past few years this business has experienced expansion becoming a beacon of excellence in local industry.”
Publications Plus was recognized in the 51-100 employee category.
“It is a printing powerhouse,” Stieb said. “They have become synonymous with excellence in the River Region. They have a diverse range of services
I need to. I ask them to help me all the time.”
The public safety lab has its own fire truck and turn out gear, though they don’t respond to calls. It is all used as training tools. The gear has aged out and can’t be used in fires and the fire truck has long been replaced by the Wetumpka Fire Department. The fire department has brought its 90-foot ladder truck to the school and allowed students to climb to the top. The department helps with other training in Sheppard’s classes as well.
The department is currently constructing a new fire station just outside the doors of ECTC. Sheppard hopes it opens the doors to more collaboration between the school and the department.
A couple of years ago, Sheppard knew it was time to retire from being an active firefighter but didn’t feel like he was done giving to the fire service.
“I said if I ever work again, I want to work with young people,” Sheppard
approved $10 million for projects in Tallassee. The commission has budgeted $2.5 million to the fields there. Any savings will be used to go along with an additional $7.5 million to construct a new recreation center. The City of Tallassee would need to come up with other funding if necessary. Estimates currently are at $10 million for the new rec center but could be trimmed some in the design phase that is upcoming.
It is estimated the new rec center would be completed in 24 to 36 months.
A splash pad near the new rec center is proposed but no funding has been allotted to it yet.
Future Tallassee projects include a track at Tallassee Elementary and walking trails behind the new rec center but no funding source has been announced yet.
The city would also have to move the public works shop behind the current rec center.
“We are looking at several options right now,” Tallassee Mayor Sarah Hill said. “We are hoping economies of scale will give some savings on the artificial turf that could be used on the rec center. We are also looking at trimming back a little on it if we are unable to secure all the necessary funding.”
The city isn’t at the $5 million debt limit yet put in place by state law. Hill said that would be the last resort for additional funding.
In Eclectic the commission has pledged up to $4.5 million to resurfacing athletic fields. The county has also pledged in-kind services to construct a loop road around property just south of Eclectic Elementary School. A special projects crew from Elmore County Public Works would
from banners to business cards, posters and magazines. They have solidified their position as the go to custom print provider.”
Winners will have a chance at state awards and recognitions.
Hawkins recognized the two full time staff at the chamber, Whitfield and Stieb.
“They have done a wonderful job,” Hawkins said.
Hawkins also recognized board members whose term has expired, Frank Bertarelli, Brian Blanks and Sarah Somerville.
said. “I want to impact their lives in a positive way.”
Sheppard already has graduates from the program who have completed firefighter training and starting careers with full time fire departments.
Hart has his sights set on similar goals as well. He plans on getting his Firefighter I and II certifications from the Alabama Fire College and working with a local fire department.
Foulks has his sights set on law enforcement, but won’t forget firefighting.
“I have always liked police cars,” Foulks said. “In the last five or six years, I have gotten into the fire service. But law enforcement is still my passion.”
He plans to enter the military to become a military police officer until he turns 21.
“You have to be that age to be a police officer,” Foulks said. “I might also go to Faulkner University for a criminal law degree.”
construct the road and do some possible grading to create several fields that could be used for soccer and other sports. The commission also pledged up to $500,000 in cash for the construction.
The Town of Eclectic would seek grant money to construct a walking trail in the pecan orchard near the fire department.
All of the work in Holtville is on Elmore County Board of Education property.
It will include moving the road on the east side of the football field to allow for the field to be widened. Space will be left at the southern end of the football field for a possible new field house. An estimated $4.5 million has been pledged for the resurfacing of the fields in Holtville.
An additional $500,000 has been pledged by the commission to help construct batting cages and a pavilion. Additional funding may be needed and will be determined during the design phase.
A 1 ¾ mile walking path around the current schools is proposed. No funding has been allotted to the project.
Elmore County’s Richie Beyer said the projects were identified through public input and surveys conducted by Dalhoff Thomas. It was a similar process used in Millbrook and Wetumpka to identify the scope of the 17 Springs and Hohenberg Field and tennis court projects in Wetumpka.
Expansions are being planned at the Elmore County Judicial Complex with the addition of two circuit court judges. The Elmore County Jail is in need of renovations as well.
“It is nearly 30 years old,” Beyer said. “We are above its capacity already.”
This round of projects
the driver to get out. The two front windows were then knocked out by officers and took Renner into custody. “In the center console cup holder a partially empty open cold beer was located that had condensation on the outside,”
will be funded through a bond issuance by the Elmore County Commission.
This is an addition to the more than $100 million being spent by the county and the City of Millbrook in the 17 Springs project in Millbrook where hotel lodging taxes will fund the work across the county. More funding will be acquired as sales of commercial lots in the Marketplace at 17 Springs begin. It will help the partners recover some of the costs of the 17 Springs project.
Beyer said there are other quality of life projects across the county as well. Cooters Pond on the Alabama River is getting improvements using the special sales tax in the area shared with the City of Prattville.
Improvements to the Kowaliga boat ramp on Lake Martin are in the works too.
“Those are smaller projects that are as big as the other quality of life projects,” Beyer said. “With that said, they are still very important.”
The idea of expanding parks and more for a better quality of life for citizens in Elmore County is not a new idea. Elmore County commission chair Bart Mercer and Daughtery have been part of discussions for years. The scope of the projects that were only a pipe dream were never scrapped. Instead, partnerships were sought and made quality of life projects on a scale never before seen in Elmore County.
“It is a milestone,” Mercer said. “We would not be able to get here if we didn’t have the relationships we have across the county with the municipalities and boards of education. We should all be proud of this.”
were
in the car. A glass pipe with narcotics residue was found inside the console. No field sobriety test was conducted and Renner refused to submit to a breathalyzer. Renner’s bond was set at $40,000 at the time of the arrest and Goggans left it unchanged as he bound the case over to an Elmore County Grand Jury for possible indictment.
The family Bible
Greetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge! Spring is springing all around on this beautiful Monday morning as I write. The rain knocked some of the pollen out of the air, so I am actually able to enjoy the beauty of the day without sneezing my head off! This morning, I had the privilege of offering a dedication prayer for the swearing in of Judge Bill Lewis to the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals. Judge Lewis has served as a Circuit Judge for the 19th District since 2018. Last month, Governor Kay Ivey appointed him to serve the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals. Retired Judge John Bush swore Judge Lewis in to the new position this Monday morning. Judge Lewis’ family and a
few friends were present. His mother stood between the two judges holding the family Bible. Judge Lewis placed his right hand on that Bible and swore to uphold the law of the land in his new appointment. Before the swearing in ceremony began, I took a moment to look at the Lewis family Bible. It is a relic of sorts; a large King James Version of the Bible featuring an ornate cover and elaborately decorated pages. It is an example of a family Bible that for decades adorned a special place in family homes across the country. The first section is the family section. There are several pages where the family tree is to be recorded. The Lewis family Bible used in this morning’s
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.
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.
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-
service goes back at least three generations. The name and birth information for each family member is recorded for posterity. Many of us might dismiss such a relic. It is large, heavy, and somewhat cumbersome. While we might be interested in the novelty of it and / or the genealogical information it contains, the family Bible is a thing of the past. Families do not have them prominently displayed on the coffee table in the “front room” anymore.
Does your family have one? If your family has been in the United States more than five or six decades, I am willing to bet it does. From the earliest days of colonization all the way through the 1950s, Bible salesmen presented the necessity of owning
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
one. The family Bible served as public record as much as the shared word of God. The concept is certainly not unique to the Americas. The recording of vital family statistics alongside the sacred documents of faith is as old as the practice of writing things down is. In short, for centuries people have known that there was a connection between cherished family information and the words of faith. Have we lost that tradition?
Some reading this column would answer no to that question. These folk come from families where ancestral heritage and faith tradition are deeply connected and lived out. Their family story is part of the story of the family of God.
church website at http:// epiphanytallassee.org/
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
First Presbyterian Church, located at 514 Central Blvd. will host a Veteran’s Day Celebration on Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. for all veterans and first responders and their family members.
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
“We are OPEN and everyone is WELCOME! Come worship with us in
Worship With Us
REV. JONATHAN YARBORO Columnist
Some reading this column would say yes to the question. Their family story does not link ancestral heritage and faith tradition in any way, shape, or form. Some folk might even say there should be no link at all. Their story is also part of God’s story. Families of God have always understood the value of ancestral heritage. Sometimes that value is derived from faithful living and embodiment of divine wisdom. Other times, the value is derived from observing what not to do. Either way, the recording is a celebration of the knowledge that God brings good out of all things.
Rev. Jonathan Yarboro is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Wetumpka.
person Sunday mornings at 8:50 a.m. (contemporary) or 11 a.m. (traditional). Sunday School for all ages is offered Sunday mornings at 10 a.m., and a nursery is available for infants. CHILDREN & YOUTH: meet Sunday evenings from 5-6:30 p.m. and Wednesday evenings from 6-7:15 p.m.; supper is included both days! For more information about our church or the programs we offer, visit our website: fumctallassee.com or call us: 334-283-2195. FUMC
Tallassee - 1 Jordan Avenue.”
OUR LIFE’S JOURNEY Airs every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. on 580 WACQ, FM 98.5 & 101.1, on your smart speaker, your TuneIn app, or on our website www.wacqradio. com. Please share on social media. This set of programs features Msgr. Charles Troncale, Fr. Mateusz Rudzik, Fr. James Dean, Fr. David Carucci, Fr. Patrick Driscoll, and Deacon
2024 ELMORE COUNTY WRESTLER OF THE YEAR
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Land Bell wasn’t content with just winning.
At the end of his sophomore season in 2023, Bell won the AHSAA Class 5A state championship in the 132-pound class and finished with a 43-3 record. Winning the title was all good and well, but Bell still felt like something was off for him on the mats.
He felt like he was weaker
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
than all of the opponents he wrestled in the postseason.
With that in mind, Bell set out on gaining weight over the summer before his junior year. He hit the weight room hard and started eating healthier. He ate as much protein as he could, and he started gaining weight and strength.
He found himself one day sitting at 155 pounds, 23 pounds heavier than he was when he won the state title.
He knew he had to stop because he passed the weight
he wanted to be at. So he then started cutting. He cut around nine pounds and found the sweet spot for him.
He was now wrestling in the 144-pound class, and he couldn’t have landed in a better spot if he tried 100 times over again. The junior dominated his weight class and went 57-0 this season, winning back-to-back state championships. He has now won 77-consecutive matches
2024 ALL-ELMORE COUNTY WRESTLING TEAM
WRESTLER OF THE YEAR:
Land Bell, Tallassee junior Bell wasted no time showing he was one of the best wrestlers across the state of Alabama, regardless of weight classes. Bell moved up two weight classes to 144, and went a perfect 57-0 en route to his second-consecutive state championship in Class 5A. Bell has now won 77 consecutive matches heading into his senior season.
FIRST TEAM
Avery Brantley, Tallassee sophomore Brantley had a stellar sophomore season where he finished in fourth place in Class 5A’s 138-pound weight class. Brantley finished the year with a 44-12 overall record and pulled off one of the year’s biggest upsets in the first round of the AHSAA state championships. Brantley finished third place in multiple tournaments including Super Sectionals, Julian McPhillips and the Swede Umbach.
Willie Cox, Wetumpka senior Cox proved he is the best heavyweight wrestler in the state time and time again as he went 47-1 and won the Class 6A state championship for the second-consecutive season. His one loss came from out of state and he has not lost to a wrestler
in Alabama in over two full seasons. After his title, he was named a senior All-Star and won his All-Star match with ease.
Zach Crosthwait, Wetumpka junior Crosthwait was one part of the three-headed monster that Wetumpka’s wrestling team sported in the three heaviest classes. Wrestling at 190 pounds, Crosthwait went 29-4 during his junior season and finished sixth in the weight class in Class 6A. He dealt with injuries throughout the year but still proved to be one of the top wrestlers in the state.
Juliana Eldridge, Wetumpka freshman A year after going undefeated and winning her first state title as an eighth grader, Eldridge found herself in the state title match once again, this time in the 114-pound weight class. She finished runner-up with an 18-3 overall record, and all three losses came to the state champion. She has a 43-3 record the last two seasons.
Myles Eyerly, Elmore County senior A year after claiming his first state title, the Elmore County heavyweight stormed back to Huntsville and won his second Class 5A state championship in a row. With only one loss to his name, Eyerly finished
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Josh Highland has high expectations for the future of his Wetumpka wrestling program.
The Indians lose their staple of championship wrestlers – senior state champs Willie Cox, Christian Preston and Noah Smith – but the rest of his squad is ready and primed for multiple more seasons under the 2023-24 All-Elmore County Wrestling Coach of the Year.
Wetumpka finished in the Top 8 of Class 6A in both the
duals and traditional tournament this wrestling season, and that was with one of the youngest teams in the entire state.
Wetumpka’s lineup was littered with freshman, eighth grade and seventh grade wrestlers. Twenty one wrestlers from seventh to ninth grade started and wrestled varsity matches for the Indians, while only 11 upperclassmen wrestled more than two varsity matches this year.
“We had our staple of seniors, but we also showed our younger guys how to wrestle and got them plen-
ty of matches this season,” Highland said. “We had the youth movement going on. In a normal year, we wouldn’t have that many young guys able to get the matches they did but this year we did. Those guys know what it takes to wrestle at the varsity level and now we’re going to have an experienced lineup for years to come.”
Wetumpka’s five best wrestlers were all seniors or juniors. The two juniors were Zach Crosthwait (190) and Brantley Woodall (157), and the two had a 48-5 combined record and both qualified for
Wetumpka coach Josh Highland, right, celebrates with wrestler Noah Smith after Smith’s state championship win. Highland led the Indians to an 8th-place finish in Class 6A with three individual state champions.
for the Tigers.
For his dominance at a new weight class, Bell is the 2024 Elmore County Wrestler of the Year.
“All my hard work in the offseason paid off for me,” Bell said. “It feels very rewarding and it’s another milestone for me. I still feel like everyone is strong, if not stronger than me at this weight, but I’m quick. Some of the bigger guys aren’t used to grabbing a small, quick wrestler who is agile. When I need it, I have the strength to compete but I’m very quick on my feet and that works out well for this weight class.”
Looking at his results, one wouldn’t expect Bell to consider himself to not have the same strength as his opponents. Bell is a force on the mats, and he showed that with the amount of pins he accumulated en route to his 57 wins.
Thirty four of his wins came via pin. Eight more came from technical pins, which means he beat his opponent by 15 or more points.
He doesn’t credit his pins to his strength, however, but instead his agility and his gas tank.
“Almost all of my pins came in the late second period or early third period,” Bell said. “I take pride in gassing my opponents out. I can go 100% every match and it’s super difficult for a stronger guy to go that hard for an entire six minutes. A lot of guys will gas out and I’ll catch them in a move and get them onto their backs and get the pin.”
Even with the dominance on the mat, Bell’s championship did not come easy.
Bell is a true believer in the term “playoff speed” and knows the entire game changes when it gets to postseason play.
Every wrestler he faces is stronger and faster than the ones he easily pinned in the regular season, and that was shown to him first hand in the Super Sectionals final against Gulf Shores’ Charles Knight.
Bell and Knight had already faced off and were familiar with each other. Bell, undefeated against Knight, didn’t shy away from the fact that he overlooked him in the sectionals tournament.
That was until Knight went up 5-0 on Bell and nearly pinned him just 35 seconds into the match. Bell then earned an escape, cut the lead to 5-3 by the end of the first period and stunned Knight in a last second reversal.
Knight led, 7-6, before Bell scored his final two points with two seconds left on the clock to win the sectional title. The two matched up again in the state semifinals in Huntsville, and Bell won 5-2.
“I let my guard down that match and he caught me,” Bell said. “Once he got up five points, it definitely fixed my mentality and I knew this match was different from the previous one against him. Then we wrestled again at state and I knew what I had to do. I was in control for the entire match.”
Bell went 3-0 in the state tournament with three convincing wins. The 5-2 win over Knight was his second match and it followed a 16-1 technical fall in the quarterfinals.
In the championship, he wrestled and defeated No. 2-ranked Josh Draskovic from Scottsboro, 8-2 via decision.
The ultimate goal for Bell was to win another state title, but the undefeated streak was always in the back of his mind. As he got closer and closer to the finish line, he got more nervous about remaining unbeaten.
“Being undefeated and the defending state champion, it puts a target on you and it’s a lot of pressure,” Bell said. “I knew I was going to get hard matches from every single wrestler, and having 77-consecutive wins puts a toll on you because you start thinking ‘Oh, I’m 55-0. I can’t lose now.’ It can be a lot but you have to push it to the back of your head and wrestle the way you know how to.”
Bell’s high school bucket list is almost complete. He has now won backto-back state championships and had an undefeated season. Heading into his senior year, he has a few things left he wants to accomplish.
In April, he will head to Virginia Beach and try to become a NHSCA All-American. After that, he will attempt to become a Fargo All-American in July. Then he wants to pick up his first collegiate offer, win a third straight title and become Tallassee’s all-time wins leader.
Bell currently has a 204-26 record, and he has only lost three combined matches during his sophomore and junior seasons. He needs 31 more wins to reach the school record.
“I’m super stoked about this summer and coming back next year,” Bell said. “I’ve been putting in the work since the season ended and I’m going to wrestle at the club and hitting the weight room hard. I can’t wait for it.”
Phelps’ hat trick leads Holtville soccer
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Hailey Phelps may only be an eighth grader, but she certainly doesn’t play like it on the pitch.
Playing out of the midfield, Phelps is Holtville’s leading goal scorer and is helping lead the Bulldogs to a winning record.
In a three-game set last week, Phelps scored five goals in wins over Elmore County, Childersburg and Demopolis.
She scored one goal in each game and turned in a hat trick in the 7-4 win over Childersburg.
For her performance during the team’s three-game win streak, Phelps is the Elmore County Player of the Week.
“Hailey understands the game so well and she’s only an eighth grader,” coach Luke Fussell said. “She’s been around soccer her entire life and she loves the sport. When she steps onto that field and the lights come on, she’s just locked in. She helps bring all of her teammates up and she has a lot of great ideas with the ball at her feet.”
To start the week, Holtville got its rematch with Elmore County. The Panthers beat Holtville, 3-2, Feb. 29 and Phelps scored one goal in the matchup.
TEAM Continued from B1
40-1 and is 80-7 over the last two seasons.
Ethan Jones, Tallassee senior Having to wrestle in a facemask due to a preseason injury, Jones didn’t let that get in his way of having a stellar senior campaign. The senior went 47-11 wrestling in Class 5A’s 150-pound class and was named an AllStar after the season. In the All-Star event, Jones won his match to help the North secure the duals victory.
Ramon Lozada, Tallassee senior Lozada quickly took advantage of his transfer from Wetumpka this winter. The senior and multi-year state qualifier went undefeated on the year with a 43-0 record with 21 wins by fall in Class 5A in the 120-pound class. He pinned his opponent in the state championship match in the second period.
Christian McCary, Tallassee senior McCary finished his career as one of the most decorated wrestlers in Central Alabama. The Tallassee superstar finished his senior season 49-3 with a third place finish in Class 5A’s 165-pound class. He is also Tallassee’s all-time pins
HIGHLAND
Continued from B1
the state tournament.
Vote for your Fans’ Choice Player of the Week now!
She scored only one goal against Elmore County as well on Monday, but her impact was far greater than her finding the net just once.
In the 4-3 Holtville win, Phelps pressured the Elmore County defensive line over and over again and forced the entire team to shift back to accommodate her skillset.
In doing so, that allowed Holtville’s midfield to shift up the field and take control of the middle of the field as Elmore County played defensively.
That resulted in four players scoring goals and Holtville earning a win over the team that the Bulldogs hadn’t beaten since 2022.
“She made their midfield play box to box because of the pressure she put on them,” Fussell said. “She drew them back and then turned around and dropped the ball to anoth-
leader and has won more than 200 matches in his career.
Tra’Mel McCoy, Tallassee sophomore McCoy had one of the best postseasons of any wrestler in the state. Not only did he finish his sophomore season with a 28-9 record, he claimed the Super Sectionals championship and a third place finish in Class 5A’s 157-pound weight class in the state tournament. McCoy won 13 of his last 14 matches to end the year.
Mason Nelson, Tallassee junior The Tallassee star junior wrestled at both 113 and 106 pounds this year, but he really dominated his way through the 106-pound class. He claimed the AHSAA state championship with a 49-5 overall record and won 15 of his 16 last matches. In the championships, he had one win via fall and two via technical falls.
Tyler Payton, Elmore County freshman Payton stormed onto the scene this year and proved he is one of the state’s best wrestlers despite being just a freshman. In the 150pound weight class, Payton claimed the Class 5A state championship with a 40-1 overall record. His only loss came to the Class 6A
Outside of those five, the rest of Wetumpka’s lineup was young. Freshmen Swayze Martin (31-10) and Troy Watson (31-10) both reached the state tournament, while Tanner Adams, Liam McKinney and Cameron Boling all ended up being regular starters and wrestling over 20 matches on the year.
For Highland, it wasn’t putting them in the starting lineup that was the difficult part. No matter what their ages were, they deserved the chance to wrestle.
The difficult part was making sure they were prepared.
“Those younger guys have never been in those situations before so
er midfielder and that opened up an array of plays for us.
She’s coachable, and she has natural instincts. You don’t see many players like her in the eighth grade.”
Phelps was an impactful player for Holtville as a seventh grader last season. She was a member of the All-County team after scoring nine goals and adding six assists.
She’s already passed that goal count by finding the back of the net 14 times.
She has scored multiple goals four times this season
champion before winning 26-straight matches to end the year.
Christian Preston, Wetumpka senior Preston added some dramatics, but the Wetumpka senior claimed his second-consecutive state championship last month with a 2-1 last-second takedown in the title match. Preston went 43-3 this year and won the 215-pound class in Class 6A. He went 79-7 the last two seasons with two championship wins.
Kristian Seals, Stanhope Elmore senior Seals capped off his senior season with an impressive showing in the state tournament. The Mustangs’ star went 21-9 and won two matches in Class 6A’s 157-pound tournament before forfeiting his last two matches to finish sixth. His only loss in the state tournament came to the eventual state champion.
Sam Segarra, Holtville senior Segarra jumped onto the scene and had the best season of any Holtville wrestler this year. Wrestling in a tough 150-pound division in Class 5A, Segarra finished his senior season with a 44-12 record and was a state qualifier. Segarra also won the PCA Panther Invitational during the season.
they’re wired a little differently,” Highland said. “They might be nervous and they have more questions about different situations they haven’t been in. So you really have to spend time preparing them.”
Almost all of Wetumpka’s experience on the team is in the heavyweight classes. Cox is at 285 pounds, Preston is at 215 pounds, Crosthwait is at 190, and Woodall is at 157.
The only experienced wrestler at the small weight classes that can help the young wrestlers is Smith, who is at 132. So while Smith helps the young wrestlers practice, so does Highland.
He doesn’t mind getting out on the mat and wrestling.
“I’ll get out there and wrestle with them and put them in uncomfortable situations that they’re sure to find themselves in a live match,” Highland
and has two hat tricks to her name. Her 14 goals scored ranks 22nd in Alabama.
That’s with the Bulldogs still having eight games left on the schedule and a potential playoff matchup if they advance to the postseason.
“She was good for us last year, but she has really matured so much from seventh to eighth grade,” Fussell said. “She has a lot of self determination and self motivation. She works a lot and she’s always asking questions. Whatever she does, she does it to the best of her ability.
Noah Smith, Wetumpka senior After missing the state tournament due to missing weight last season, Smith made a promise to his team that he would win the state championship his senior season. He did exactly that as he went 37-2 and claimed the Class 6A state title in the 132-pound class. Down 2-0 in the second period, he stormed back and won the championship match, 6-2.
SECOND TEAM Barrett Adams, Wetumpka eighth grader Nolan Addeo, Tallassee sophomore Dylan Andres, Elmore County freshman Aiden Bridgman, Tallassee sophomore Shawn Colvin, Elmore County senior Joseph Hooks, Tallassee junior Swayze Martin, Wetumpka freshman Thomas Patterson, Tallassee freshman Tyson Ratliff, Holtville junior Jude Rogers, Tallassee junior Dominic Sager, Stanhope Elmore freshman Alphonsa Washington, Stanhope Elmore senior Troy Watson, Wetumpka freshman Stran Webb, Elmore County freshman Brantley Woodall, Wetumpka junior
said. “I can get out there on the mat with them and get them used to those situations. They might not win the rep 100% of the time, but they’re going to be prepared and have the muscle memory in a live match.”
Looking ahead to next year, losing the three seniors is going to be a massive loss for the Indians both in duals and traditional match points. But eight wrestlers will return to the team that had 19 or more wins, and three more who had 10 more wins.
The youth movement is in full effect for Wetumpka, and Highland is going to enjoy it the next few seasons.
“Those guys have wrestled under the lights and they know what it takes going forward,” Highland said. “They shouldn’t have the nerves anymore. I know what’s to come with our roster and the younger guys are really, really competitive.”
BELL
SUBMITTED | CAROLINE JOY
Holtville’s Hailey Phelps (19) scored five goals in three games last week. Her week was highlighted by a hat trick against Childersburg.
Wetumpka girls claim area title despite loss
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Stanhope Elmore may have won the battle, but Wetumpka won the war.
The Mustangs defeated visiting Wetumpka, 2-1, at 17 Springs on Friday night, but it wasn’t enough to claim the AHSAA Class 6A, Area 3 girls soccer championship.
Due to goal differential between the twogame split, Wetumpka has won the area championship.
Wetumpka beat Stanhope in the first matchup, 3-1. Stanhope won the second, 2-1.
This is Wetumpka’s third-consecutive area championship.
“It’s good and it’s nice,” Indians coach Jessica Holbert said.
“It’s hard to think about right now because we lost, but it’s nice. We have two starters out so I’m proud of them winning the area again. It means a lot for the program and the future of our program.”
The Mustangs struck early and led from start to finish. Stanhope Elmore earned a breakaway and outraced the entire Wetumpka defense just two minutes into the game. A quick goal gave Stanhope the 1-0 lead.
That lead stayed until the halftime break and
10 minutes into the second half, Stanhope struck again. On another breakaway, Wetumpka defender Emily Smith tried to pass back to her goalkeeper but didn’t kick the ball hard enough.
The Stanhope forward beat the goalie to the ball and found the back
Area Champs
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
Stephen Horn’s Wetumpka soccer team was dead in the water Friday night.
Facing a must-win game against rival Stanhope Elmore, the Indians found themselves down by three goals and only 10 players after a red card just 29 minutes into the game.
But much like they’ve done all season, the Indians refused to lose.
Wetumpka stormed back and beat host Stanhope Elmore, 5-4, to claim the area championship for the second consecutive season. The Indians scored four unanswered goals, including three in the second half, to beat their rival for the second time this season.
“I genuinely don’t know what to say after that one,” Horn said. “It was a special game. As a coach, you never want to say your team is out of a game but it was 4-1 and we had a red card early. We were thinking, ‘How can we not make this as bad as it could be?’ But then we just started coming back. I genuinely don’t know what to say.”
The teams traded goals in the first seven minutes with Graham Baker scoring early for Stanhope and Austin Holley tying it up a few minutes later.
After that, Stanhope Elmore had a 22-minute stretch that
looked disastrous for the Indians. Alexis Cano scored on a deep shot Wetumpka’s goalkeeper thought was over the net but fell in behind him, then Thomas Richardson and Jay Myers each scored in a 10-minute span to go up 4-1.
At the same time, Wetumpka’s Angel Gabriel received a red card and was ejected from the game.
“We’ve been through so much this year,” Horn said. “Our top goal scorer from a year ago broke his leg before the season, and we barely beat this team in overtime at home. We’re barely healthy. We have starters out but we still came back after a rough start. We have that feisty mentality.”
Brody Worrell cut the lead in half with a free kick goal, and Stanhope led 4-2 at halftime. Coming out of the half, Holley earned a penalty kick but missed his shot, keeping Stanhope’s lead at two goals.
Two minutes later, however, Rhett Pinkston found himself with the ball at his feet off a deflected corner kick. He put a perfect touch on the ball and landed it directly past the outstretched hand of Stanhope’s goalkeeper.
With 20 minutes left, Holley and Worrell struck again and again. Holley smacked a corner kick that found Worrell perfectly, tying the game.
Five minutes later, Worrell
of the net for a 2-0 lead.
Four minutes later, Smith made up for her defensive mistake. She rocketed up with the offensive on a push and found the ball at her feet and knocked it straight past the Stanhope goalkeeper.
Smith’s goal set the area title back in
Wetumpka’s grasp, where it stayed the rest of the night.
“Emily is aggressive, and she’s an athlete,” Holbert said. “When she gets on the field and it’s game time, she gives everything she can. She said to us that she felt like she basically gave them their sec -
ond goal, so it means a lot for her to be the one to come back and score. She didn’t let it get in her head. She came back up and made up for it.”
The Wetumpka offense continued to try and even the score and get the win but couldn’t fight both the conditions and the deficit.
On a cold and rainy night, Wetumpka’s Morgan Sims took shot after shot, but Stanhope defenders like captain Emily Peterson held the Indians’ offense in check and pulled out the victory.
Despite the early deficit and a mistake that led to a 2-goal deficit, Holbert’s team never stopped fighting for 80 minutes.
“I’ve seen a lot of games this season where after the first goal, we go flat,” Holbert said. “But tonight, the seniors wanted this one and the other girls wanted to win the area as well. They fought back and fought hard.”
Short-handed Wetumpka stuns Stanhope Elmore with late rally
had another free kick and it bounced off the Stanhope keeper, landing directly in front of Holley. He missed his first kick attempt at the ball, but then landed his second in the back of the net and took the final lead, 5-4.
“That felt so amazing and then we celebrated in the
corner with the whole team,” Holley said. “That first whiff, I said to myself ‘Oh my gosh.’
Then it fell right back to me and I was able to finish.
Thank goodness.”
Holley scored the first and last goals of the game, while Worrell scored the second and fourth. Pinkston, also a senior,
Chilton County at Wetumpka, 1 p.m.
Elmore County at Park Crossing, 11 a.m.
netted the third goal that cut the lead to one.
Wetumpka has now clinched the area championship and will host the sub-regional games come April.
“Great players do their things,” Horn said. “No matter what, Brody and Austin are not going to let us lose.”
Jonathan Elder (Oh.) at Holtville, 5 p.m. High School Softball
4 Tallassee at Beauregard, 5 p.m.
School Soccer 4 Russell County at Tallassee, 4:30 p.m.
Continued from A4
shakes. Dairy Creem in Alex City is there too.
Lately I have been carrying the hot dog show back on the road again with my son. A few years ago it started with the classic hotdog stop in Montgomery — Chris’.
There’s also Grumpy Dog in Wetumpka and Tallassee. But he is reserving judgment.
He’s tried Grumpy’s Cheesy Dog but is waiting to try the basic chili dog.
“I think that is equal to Gus’ maybe No. 1,” he said. “But I want to try everyone’s classic hotdog to judge for sure.”
Anyone who has been to Chris’ knows it is all about the sauce. I’ve tried to buy the recipe but I don’t have the necessary $5 million. So we resort to going to Dexter Avenue whenever the chance arises. Chris’ now has stiff competition. We’ve tried Gus’ in Birmingham and recently made a stop at The Varsity in Atlanta — Gus’ is clearly at the top for my son. He likes the ground beef chili.
For me the list is Grumpy No. 1.
A tie for second between Gus’ and The Varsity and a close third is Chris’. My son’s final ranking is still up in the air. But it doesn’t matter to me.
For me the top of the list is creating memories around it all with my son. And we will keep going and debating who has the better hotdog.
So, if you see me out with a younger version of me don’t be shy. Stop by, say hi and engage us in the intricacies of hotdogs and life.
Cliff Williams is the news editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.’s Elmore County newspapers. He can be reached at cliff. williams@thewetumpkaherald. com.
Wetumpka senior Emily Smith scored the area-clinching goal against Stanhope Elmore on Friday. Smith and the Indians lost, 2-1, but won the area championship via goal differential.
FILE TPI
Wetumpka senior Brody Worrell scored two goals in Wetumpka’s 5-4 win over rival Stanhope Elmore to clinch the Class 6A, Area 3 title. The Indians were down, 4-1, and scored four unanswered goals to end the game.
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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.
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MORE COUNTY, ALABAMA, AND CONTAINS 0.99 ACRES, MORE OR LESS. ACCORDING TO THE SURVEY OF RONALD BURKE, ALA. REG. #16670 DATED FEBRUARY 20, 2001. Said legal description being controlling, however the property is more commonly known as 1003 JACKSON TRACE ROAD, WETUMPKA, AL 36092 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, sub-
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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 THE FOLLOWING WILL BE AUCTIONED OFF ON 4-26-24 BY J&J TOWING 3345581595 1999 DODGE DURANGO 1B4HR28Y9XF686669
2008 MERCEDES WDDNG71X88A195623
2017 HYUNDAI SANTA FE 5XYZU3LB8HG388174
Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 20 and 27, 2024 AV/99 DODGE PUBLIC NOTICE
INVITATION TO BID!!! P. F. Moon & Company, Inc. is currently accepting proposals from suppliers & subcontractors for the Camp Hill AL – 2022 CWSRF Lift Station No. 1 3 4 5 & 9 Rehabilitation project. P F Moon and Company, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage DBE/MBE/WBE participation. For more information regarding this and other projects P.F. Moon & Company is bidding, contact Jerry Eubanks 706.643.1524.
Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 20, 27 and Apr. 3, 2024 BIDS 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,
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 NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER FORECLOSURE NOTICE WHEREAS, default has occurred in the performance of the covenants, terms and conditions of a mortgage from 3 FIVES, LLC A DELAWARE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS MORTGAGEE, AS NOMINEE, FOR LIMA ONE CAPITAL, LLC, on the 17th day of May, 2021, said mortthe Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, on May 21, 2021, in Deed/Mortgage Book 2021, Page 43985, Elmore County, 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 24, 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: COMMENCE AT AN IRON PIN (1” CRIMP-TOP PIPE) AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 1, BLOCK 1, OF THE RESUBDIVISION OF RIVERVIEW ESTATES, AS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA, IN PLAT BOOK 7, AT PAGE 97, SAID POINT BEING ON THE SOUTH RIGHT OF WAY OF RIVER DRIVE (FORMERLY WATER WORKS ROAD): THENCE SOUTH 89 DEG. 53 MIN 36 SEC. EAST, ALONG SAID RIGHT OF WAY, 136.52 FEET TO AN IRON PIN (1/2”” REBAR) ON THE WEST RIGHT OF WAY OF JACKSON TRACE ROAD (FORMERLY U.S. HIGHWAY 231), 60 FOOT RIGHT OFERLY, ALONG SAID RIGHT OF WAY, CHORD BEING NORTH 04 DEG. 58 MIN 00 SEC. WEST, 714.62 FEET, AT A CALCULATED POINT IN ELMER BRANCH, SAID POINT BEING THENCE NORTH 87 DEG. 48 MIN. 42 SEC. WEST, ALONG SAID BRANCH, 210.00 FEET THENCE LEAVING SAID BRANCH, NORTH 09 DEG. 02 MIN. 28 SEC. WEST, 210.00 FEET TO AN IRON PIN (2 INCH DEG. 49 MIN. 41 SEC. EAST, 210.30 FEET TO AN IRON PIN (1 INCH OPEN-TOP PIPE) ON THE WEST RIGHT OF WAY THENCE SOUTH 08 DEG. 57 MIN. 26 SEC. EAST, ALONG SAID RIGHT OF WAY, 210.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY LIES IN THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 8, T18N, R19E, EL-
Sell your home in the classifieds call 256.277.4219
Box 210877, Montgomery, Alabama 36121 has completed all work on the contract ARPA Proj No 01051-061-221116-0015 Town of Eclectic Sanitary Sewer Pump Station & Force Main. All persons having any claim for labor, materials or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify the above contractor and the Engineer, Larry E, Speaks & Associates at 535 Herron St. Montgomery, AL 36104. Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 20, 27, Apr. 3 and 10, 2024 COMPLETION
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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. Al-
abama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances.
help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00)
time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price plus any deed recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law at the address indicated below. the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. Freedom Mortgage Corporation, (“Transferee”) Tiffany & South, Suite 300, Homewood, AL 35223 www.tblaw.com TB File Number: 23-05385
24-00379
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
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 recordof 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, on April 10, 2024, during the legal hours of sale, all of its rights, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, towit: PARCEL 1: Lot 1, Block 5, according to the Plat of Lakeside Subdivision, as said plat County, Alabama in Plat Book 5, at Page 120. This parcel is also described as Lot 1, Block 5 of the unrecorded Dickson Plat. PARCEL 2: Lot 2, Block 5, according to the Plat of Lakeside Subdivision, as said plat
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p
County, Alabama in Plat Book 5, at Page 120, which is also described as follows: Begin at the Southeast corner, Northwest 1/4 of Northwest 1/4, Section 2, Township 18, Range 21, thence North 89 degrees 57 minutes, West 1,321.48 feet, thence South 89 degrees 52 minutes, West 140.8 feet to a point (being the SE corner of Lot 6, Block 5 of Plat), thence in a Northwesterly direction 304 feet to a point (on the West bank of a dam), thence in a Southwesterly direction 96.3 feet to the point of beginning of the property to be described, thence in a Northwesterly direction 299.0 feet to a point, thence South 60 degrees, 27 minutes West 140.0 feet to a point, thence in a Southeasterly direction 280.8 feet to a point, thence in a Northeasterly direction 44.8 feet to a point; thence in a Northeasterly direction 101.6 feet to the point of beginning. The above described parcel is intended to be Lot 2, Block 5, of the unrecorded Dickson Plat.. Property street address for informational purposes: 364 Kent Road , Tallassee, AL 36078. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR ENREDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) to Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price plus any deed recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law the address indicated below. Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. 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 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 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
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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 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
ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PO Box 301463 (Zip 36130-1463) 1400 Coliseum Boulevard (Zip 36110-2059) Montgomery, Alabama 36130-1463 (334) 271-7700 PROPOSED ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER Account No. 330
Public Notices
py
$3,000.00. The order, if issued, would require City of Millbrook to comply with all applicable requirements of ADEM Administrative Code div. 335-3 immediately upon the effective date of this Order and continuing each and every day thereafter. Interested persons may submit written comments, including request for a hearing, within 30 days of the publication date of this notice, to: Alabama Department of Environmental Management Attention: Ronald W. Gore, Chief of the Air Division P.O. Box 301463 Montgomery, Alabama 36130-1463
The comment period shall end at the close of business 30 days from the publication date of this notice. A copy of the proposed order is available on the ADEM web page at http:// www.alabama.gov/compInfo/ adminOrders.cnt or may be obtained by written request to the above address. A nominal fee for copying may be charged. This notice is hereby given this 20th day of March, 2024, by authorization of the Alabama Department of Environmental Management.
LANCE R. LeFLEUR DIRECTOR
Nondiscrimination Statement:
The Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability in the administration of its programs.
Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 20, 2024 CITY OF MILLBROOK 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 PEGGIE ANN CLAYTON, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-034 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of PEGGIE ANN CLAYTON, deceased, having been granted to BILLY SETH CLAYTON, JR. on March 15, 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 SETH CLAYTON, JR. PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF PEGGIE ANN CLAYTON, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: REGINA EDWARDS THE LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 20, 27 and Apr. 3, 2024 EST.CLAYTON, P.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN JEROME GALLAGHER, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-065 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Public Notices
DANIEL, JR. LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL, JR. LLC POBOX 638 MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-9444 Jerry@GADanielLaw.com
Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 20, 27 and Apr. 3, 2024 EST/GALLAGHER, J. 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
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
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 THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GAIL BAXLEY HUGHES, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-066 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Public Notices
p KELLY LEE ATTORNEY AT LAW 164 WEST 5TH STREET PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36067 334-358-0685 kellylee@kellyleelaw.com
Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 20, 27 and Apr. 3, 2024 EST/HUGHES, G. 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 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. 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
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.
CV-2023-900148.00
Elmore County Pursuant to the provisions of the Alabama Environmental Management Act, Ala. Code §§22-22A-1 to 22-22A-16 (2006 Rplc. Vol.), the Alabama Department of Environmental Management is proposing to issue an Administrative Order to City of Millbrook, owner of property located in Millbrook, Elmore County, Alabama. The violations listed in the Order consist of: City of Millbrook operated in a manner that violated the state regulations in relation to open burning. The Department is proposing a civil penalty in the amount of
Letters of Administration over the Estate of JOHN JEROME GALLAGHER, deceased, having been granted to SHAWN P. FISCHER on March 14, 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. SHAWN P. FISCHER
ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN JEROME GALLAGHER, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: GERALD A.
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of GAIL BAXLEY HUGHES, deceased, having been granted to DEBRA A. BAXLEY on March 13, 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.
DEBRA A. BAXLEY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF GAIL BAXLEY HUGHES, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative:
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.
CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES
Public Notices
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.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MERLE L. ROLAN, DECEASED CASE NO: 2023-281 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration with Will Annexed over the Estate of MERLE L. ROLAN, deceased, having been granted to LARRY LEE MCENDARFER, Jr. on the 14thday 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.
LARRY LEE MCENDARFER, Jr. ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF MERLE L. ROLAN, DECEASED
Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: REGINA EDWARDS THE LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 20, 27 and Apr. 3, 2024 EST/ROLAN, M. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT DALE VANDERBILT, DECEASED CASE NO. 2024- 073 NOTICE OF FILING OF WILL AND PETITION FOR PROBATE TO: ROBERT STEVEN VANDERBILT AND ANY OTHER HEIRS AND NEXT OF KIN OF ROBERT DALE VANDERBILT, DECEASED: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 15th day of March; 2024, a certain paper in writing purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of ROBERT DALE VANDERBILT, deceased, Probate Court of Elmore County, Alabama by Petitioner, RUSSELL PARKER, requesting that such Last Will and Testament be admitted to Probate and that the Petitioner be named as Personal Representative of such Estate. This Notice of Filing of Will for Probate is given to you as an heir at law and next of kin of ROBERT DALE VANDERBILT Unless an objection to admission to Probate of such Last Will and Testament is submitted by you in writing to this Court publication of this notice, the Court will proceed with considering such Petition. JOHN THORNTON
JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA
REGINA B. EDWARDS, ESQ. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, PC 109 East Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 20, 27, Apr. 3, 2024 EST/VANDERBILT R. 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
Public Notices
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 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
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 Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
EARLY NOTICE AND PUBLIC REVIEW OF A PROPOSED ACTIVITY IN A 100 YEAR FLOODPLAIN & WETLAND
To: All interested Agencies, Groups and Individuals
This is to give notice that the City of Millbrook has determined that the following proposed action under ADECA’s CDBG Program Project No. LR-CE -PF-23-013 is located in the 100 Year Floodplain & Wetland, and the City of Millbrook will be identifying and evaluating practicable alternatives to locating the action in the 100 Year Floodplain & Wetland and the potential impacts on the 100 Year Floodplain & Wetland from the proposed action, as required by Executive Order(s) 11988 and 11990, in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands. The project is for demolition and/ or clearance of approximately 15 dilapidated, and abandoned structures throughout the City of Millbrook. The details of the structures have not yet been discovered that one or more of the structures are located in a City has ensured that every precautionary measure will be taken. Again, the proposed project is located throughout the City of Millbrook in Elmore County, Alabama. There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in the 100 Year Floodplain & Wetland and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Commenters are encouraged to offer alternative sites outside of the 100 Year Floodplain & Wetland, alternative methods to serve the same project purand mitigate impacts. Second, an adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information and request for public comment about the 100 Year Floodplain & Wetland can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the occupancycial areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in the 100 Year Floodplain & Wetland, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk. Written comments must be received by the City of Millbrook at the following address on or before 4/4/2024, which is 15 days from the date of the publication of this notice: City of Millbrook, 3160 Main Street and 334-2856428, Attention: Al Kelley, Mayor. A full description of the project may also be reviewed from 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM at the same address listed or you can check out the City’s website https:// cityofmillbrook.org/ . Comments may also be submitted via email to Lori Davis, City Clerk, at lori. davis@cityofmillbrook-al.gov . Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 20, 2024 FLOODPLAIN
PUBLIC NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
MILLBROOK, ALABAMA CITY COUNCIL
In accordance with the recompiled Constitution of the State of Alabama, Section 94.01, notice is hereby given of a public hearing of the Millbrook, Alabama City Council to be held at 3900 Grandview Road, Millbrook, Alabama 36054, at 6:00 o’clock pm on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. The purpose of the hearing is to receive public comments on a Resolution to Approve Section 94.01(a)(3) Distributions. The City of Millbrook proposes to make Section 94.01(a)(3) distributions to support economic and/or industrial development with the objective of promoting public health, safety, morals, security, prosperity, contentment, and the general welfare of the community. Said distributions are proposed to various entities and/or agencies, namely the following: Alabama Wildlife Federation, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ButterCenter, Central Alabama Crime Stoppers, Elmore County Economic Development Authority, Family Sunshine Center, Humane Society of Elmore County, Montgomery Area Mental Health Authority, American Red Cross, RSVP, The W.E.L.C.O.M.E. Center, Grandview YMCA, Community Improvement Association, Community Action Partnership, and the Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce. The City of Millbrook proposes to lend its credit or grant public funds or thing of value to each of the aforementioned entities and/or agencies for each to serve a public purpose.
City of Millbrook, Alabama c/o Brent Helms, City Attorney 3160 Main Street Millbrook, AL 36054
Wetumpka Herald: Mar. 20, 2024 HEARING
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE
Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain Mortgage executed by JOHN MICHAEL LANIER in favor of FIRST COMMUNITY BANK OF CENTRAL ALABAMA, on June 7, 2022, said mortgage recordof the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Real Property Book 2022 at Page 37422 (the “Mortgage”), and, pursuant to the laws of the State of Alabama, the undersigned FIRST COMMUNITY BANK OF CENTRAL ALABAMA, under and by virtue of the power of sale provision and other terms contained in said Mortgage, elects to declare the entire indebtedness secured by said Mortgage due and payable, and will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder, for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse of Elmore County, Alabama, at 100 E Commerce Street, Wetumpka, Alabama 36092, during the legal hours of sale on April 10, 2024, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: All that part of the NW 1/4 of the SW 1/4 of Section 14, T19N, R19E, Elmore County, Alabama, lying E of the present Alabama Highway No. 9, and Westerly of the Old Central Plank Road, and bounded on the southwesterly side by lot this date conveyed to Jerry A. Lanier. The above-described real estate containing approximately 9 1/2 acres, more or less. This conveyance is subject to all restrictions, reservations, easements and/or rights-of-way appearing of record which affect title to the avove described property.
Also includes on (1) 1997 28X74 Fleetwood Mobile Home, VIN: GAFLV34A254890K11. Less and Except: Commence at an iron pin (railroad rail) at the NW corner of the SE 1/4 of Section 14, T19N, R19E, Elmore County, Alabama; thence North 88 degrees 39 minutes 33 seconds East, 208.42 feet to an iron pin; thence North 86 degrees 44 minutes 12 seconds East, 658.27 feet to an iron pin on the west right of way of Alabama Highway No. 9, Central Plank Road, 100’ R.O.W.; thence leaving said right of way, South 48 degrees 52 minutes 18 seconds East, 100.00 feet to a point on the east right of way of said road; thence South 41 degrees 09 minutes 03 seconds West, along said right of way, 183.11 feet to an iron pin in centerline of branch, said point being the POINT OF BEGINNING; thence leaving said right of way, southeasterly, along centerline of said branch, more or less, the following six (6) chord calls: 1) South 21 degrees 40 minutes 53 seconds East, 10.08 feet; 2) South 03 degrees 52 minutes 48 seconds West, 57.78 feet; 3) South 03 degrees 28 minutes 06 seconds East, 64.62 feet; 4) South 09 degrees 31 minutes 45 seconds East, 70.69 feet; 5) South 42 degrees 39 minutes 36 seconds East, 127.69 feet; 6) South 71 degrees 00 minutes 02 seconds East, 62.46 feet to an iron pin; thence South 22 degrees 43 minutes 05 seconds West, 460.84 feet; thence South 84 degrees 20 minutes 08 seconds West, 272.15 feet to an iron pin; thence North 27 degrees 12 minutes 37 seconds West, 310.16 feet to an iron pin on the east right of way of the afore-mentioned road; thence North 41 degrees 09 minutes 03 seconds East, along said right of way, 652.85 feet to the point of beginning. The above-described property lies in the NW 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section 14, T19N, R19E, Elmore County, Alabama, and contains 5.51 acres, more or less. Said foreclosure sale and conveyance incident thereto are subject to the legal rights of any existing federal tax liens, mortgages, special assessments, easements, restrictions, and reservations appearing of record. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, SUBJECT TO ANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AS TO TITLE, USE OR ENJOYMENT, AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said Mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a nonrefundable deposit of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) to Memory Memory & Causby, LLP Client Trust Account at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price by noon the next business day
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DALTON MIDDLETON TPI
TOP: Edgewood Academy’s Ethan Evans pitches against Autauga Academy. Evans went 3-0 in area play with two wins over Hooper and one win over Autauga.
ABOVE: Edgewood Academy’s Landon Smith fields a throw down on an Autauga Academy stolen base attempt.
Clean Sweep
Edgewood baseball claims area title
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
The Edgewood Academy baseball team made quick work of its area opponents.
The Wildcats swept both Hooper and Autauga academies in three games each to claim the area championship for the first time in three seasons. Edgewood won four of the six area games by at least 10 runs and beat Autauga by one run in two games.
“This is exciting because it's the first time we’ve won our area in three years,” Wildcats coach Justin Jones said. “It’s always good to get the first round bye when the playoffs come next month.”
Edgewood started area play with a 3-0 series sweep over Hooper a week ago. In that series, Edgewood outscored Hooper by a combined 36-2 and recorded 36 hits in the process.
The series against Autauga this week featured slightly less scoring as Edgewood outscored the Generals 26-9 in three games but still managed to earn 30 hits across the three games.
The outlier for the six-game stretch was a 3-2 win over Autauga in Game 2 of the series, and the Wildcats scored eight or more in every other game.
“Offensively, we can either swing it or we’re athletic enough that we can bunt and play small ball to get on base,” Jones said. “That’s what makes it hard for our offense to be defended. This week, we had to scratch some runs across with bunts and small ball but when we’re swinging it, we’re as good as the best of them.”
Both of those styles of offense were on display in the series over Autauga. In Game 1, Edgewood hit three home runs – two from Brock
Area Champs
Edgewood softball claims title with two series wins
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
For the first time since 2021, the Edgewood Academy softball team has won the area championship. Edgewood swept Autauga Academy in a threegame series and took the series, 2-1, over Hooper Academy to finish 5-1 in area play.
The Wildcats have now earned a first round bye in the playoffs and will be a No. 1 seed in the regional tournament held in April.
“We’re super excited that we were able to achieve this,” Wildcat coach Kim Brown said. “We have goals every year and our first one was to win our big tournament we hosted. We came up short in that one but the next goal was to win the area championship and we’ve done that now. This helps with seeding and just getting those five wins is huge because we haven’t been able to do it in a few years.”
The path to the area championship didn’t come easy. To claim the title, Edgewood opened area play against Hooper Academy, the defending Class AA state champions. To make things even tougher, Edgewood had to play two of the three games at Hooper.
The first game of the series was at Edgewood, and the Wildcats took the opener, 2-1. The game was scoreless in the fifth inning before Edgewood took the lead in the bottom of the sixth and held off the Colts for the series-opening win.
Game 2 was much the same at Hooper. Edgewood took a 4-0 lead in the sixth inning before the Colts scored
two in the bottom of the seventh. Edgewood held on and clinched the series before falling in Game 3.
“Those were low-scoring games and it featured a lot of great pitching battles on both sides,” Brown said. “Those were tough games. When you win 2-1 or 4-2 like we did, they’re very exciting games and Hooper is always a tough opponent to beat.”
The Autauga three-game sweep was much higher scoring than the Hooper series. Edgewood started the series with a 10-3 win, then clinched the area championship with a 12-6 win in Game 2. It was tough as well. After leading 6-0, Autauga battled back to cut the lead to two runs before Edgewood eventually pulled away.
In Game 3, Edgewood trailed 4-0 but bounced back for a 10-8 win.
“Autauga was like a bug you couldn’t kill,” Brown said. “They had so much fight in them and kudos for that. It makes them hard to beat.”
Edgewood will now play the rest of its schedule and try to win a few more tournaments before the state tournament in April. The Wildcats hit the road this weekend for a tournament at Macon East, and will play in a tournament at Lagoon Park on April 19, just a few days before the regional and state tournament gets started at the same park.
“We still have a pretty tough schedule even without having more area games this year,” Brown said. “We have the Lagoon Tournament on April 19 and that’s a great setup for playoffs because it’s held at Lagoon and it will have that tournament atmosphere.”
Whitt and one from Drew Allison – along with two doubles as it had nearly as many extra-base hits as Autauga had singles.
In Game 2, the 3-2 win, the Wildcats had only two extra base hits and had to rely on small ball and quality pitching for the win.
Ethan Ellis started on the mound and allowed just one hit in six innings of work while striking out eight Generals. He left the mound up by three runs in the top of the seventh after issuing a leadoff walk, and Whitt closed the game. Evans has had back-to-back weeks where he was impressive on the mound. In the series against Hooper, he actually started both games of the away doubleheader. He pitched four innings and allowed two hits with six strikeouts on 51 pitches in Game 2, then pitched the first two innings of Game 3 and struck out four batters with one hit.
“Ethan has thrown well two weeks in a row,” Jones said. “He’s mixing all of his pitches really well and he’s throwing strikes with every single pitch. He’s keeping opposing batters off balanced and winning us games.”
With area play wrapped up and a first round bye on the horizon, Edgewood will not begin playoffs until April 25.
Until then, the Wildcats still have eight matchups left and a tournament at Macon East, but these will all be games to sharpen skills for the postseason.
“I love having all of our area games early in the season because now the rest of the regular season is just practice games,” Jones said. “I’m going to take my notebook and we will practice what I think we need to work on, and we’re going to try and fix the issues we’re struggling with before the postseason.”
DALTON MIDDLETON TPI
ABOVE: Edgewood
Academy’s Lindsey Brown throws across the diamond from shortstop. Brown and the Wildcats won the area title with five combined wins over Hooper and Autauga.
BELOW: Edgewood Academy’s Ashley Burgess catches a fly ball over head at second base.
Holtville soccer finding its rhythm
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
The Holtville girls soccer team is starting to hit its groove.
After starting the season with a losing record through eight games, the Bulldogs now have nearly double the amount of wins as they do losses.
Holtville is currently 9-5-1 and has won six of its last seven games including its first Class 5A, Area 4 win over Demopolis.
“We’re developing a lot of chemistry with one another,” coach Luke Fussell said. “They also continue to advance in the communication department. Those two things are clicking and everybody on the team has bought in. They’re playing for the love of the game and playing for each other, and there are no egos on our roster.”
Up front, the Bulldogs have a plethora of scorers ready to find the back of the net.
Eighth grader Hailey Phelps leads the team with 14 goals, good for ⅓ of the team’s total goals, but there are talented scorers alongside her.
Isabelle Searcy has seven goals, Kinslee Jackson has six, and Savannah Scott has five. Overall, 11 different players have goals for the Bulldogs.
“Isabelle and Madison Graham are two players who have all gas and no brakes up front,” Fussell said. “They attack the goal and put pressure on the back line. They make it to where we have consistent threats all game and not just one player for a defense to shut down.”
Kadie Stark, Jackson, Scott and Graycee Hatchett control the midfield for Holtville.
“Savannah can just launch the ball off her foot,” Fussell said. “She’s one of the best team players on the field.”
On defense, Carla Dickson plays in the goal and has racked up 35 saves this season with two penalty kick saves. The Bulldogs have had 29 goals scored against them, but 12 of those came in two games against Benjamin Rus -
sell and Sylacauga.
Outside of those, Dickson and her crew are allowing just 1.3 goals per game.
“Carla is an absolute gamer back there,” Fussell said. “She has a lot of athletic ability and she’s quick and not afraid to come out of the goal. She’s a great competitor.” In front of Dickson is Holtville’s two center backs, Joanna Pena and Anna
Stark, both of which Fussell says are “absolute dawgs.” They’re helping stop scorers enter the box from the middle, and the two outside defenders are doing their job as well.
Kennedy Rhodes is playing right back, while Grace White is the left back.
“Kennedy does everything she is supposed to do on the corner,” Fussell said. “She always turns the ball outside
instead of towards the middle and always finds a midfielder. Grace is in her second season and she’s coming along really well. We’ve had so many offensive opportunities this year because of those four girls on the back line pushing the ball up the field successfully.”
Fussell isn’t doing it all himself, however. John David Stark, who was coaching junior varsity soccer at
Benjamin Russell, has helped as an assistant coach. Both of his daughters, Kadie and Anna, are starters on the team while he helps from the sidelines.
“He’s been absolutely wonderful,” Fussell said. “He’s very knowledgeable about the game and he’s a great encouragement for our girls. He’s helped me out so much this year. He’s a coach who just gets it.”
SUBMITTED | CAROLINE JOY
Holtville’s Isabelle Searcy (2) has scored seven goals for Holtville this season. The Bulldogs are currently 9-5-1 and have won six of their last seven games.
ECHS TEACHER PIED ON PI DAY
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Natasha McMillan is thankful her classroom at Elmore County High School is a little unconvention -
al. The Family and Consumer Sciences classroom is located in a house next to the school, complete with a shower that was needed Thursday after a fun fundraiser.
McMillian had a little run-in with sophomore Asher Justice and walked away with whipped cream on her face and in her hair after getting pied.
But it was all in the name of fun and a good cause.
“We are raising money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and it is Pi day,” McMillian said Thursday.
The mathematical number 3.14 was celebrated at the school on March 14 as students and donors selected McMillian to get pied, with dollars serving as votes. McMillian was selected from a pool of school staff including coach Michael Byrd, Jerie Lewis, McMillian and coach Joseph Snelick.
McMillian didn’t mind being selected for the cause, but she isn’t sure the selection of Justice was fair. Votes were also
tallied for which student would get the honors.
“I have known him since he was little,” McMillian said.
“Somebody did an anonymous donation.”
Justice prevailed. He lined up the pie plate loaded with whipped cream and did more than just throw it at McMillian.
Justice’s hand stayed with the pie tin as it struck her face giving off a loud bang.
“I was afraid of breaking my nose,” McMillian said. “That is all I was worried about. It is OK. It was all fine. It wasn’t bad.”
Afterwards, students picked up an oatmeal cream pie from a laundry basket to celebrate Pi Day as well. McMillian stood there with a towel in hand wiping the whipped cream from her face.
She knew she was going to get pied but she also knew she had easy access to the shower near her classroom. McMillian came prepared.
“I brought shampoo and everything,” McMillian said. “I can get ready for the day now.”
The funds raised at the Pi Day Throwdown will be donated by the student council to Make-A-Wish at an upcoming conference.
Elmore County’s Wilkes commits to Huntingdon football
By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor
CJ Wilkes didn’t know if he was going to get the chance to play college football or not.
The Elmore County running back saw his senior football season come to an end without committing to the next level, then basketball ended and he was still without the offers he was searching for.
That was until Huntingdon came calling.
Wilkes committed to play college football at Huntingdon College on Friday, achieving a lifelong dream of his to represent his school and his family at the next level.
“This is a really special moment for me,” Wilkes said. “It took some time to come around, but I never stopped believing in myself. I trusted the process. When I went to visit, I liked everything I saw and coach (Mike) Turk and I talked ball. He knew a lot about Eclectic and did his research and that was one of the biggest reasons why I chose them.” Wilkes has been one of the best football players in the county the last few seasons.
As a junior in 2022, he was the county’s leading rusher with 1,308 yards and eight touchdowns as he averaged nearly eight yards per carry. This past fall, Wilkes fought some injuries and
played both ways, but was still able to rush for 677 yards and nine touchdowns. He was a First Team All-County running back both seasons. While he showed off his
offensive skills, Wilkes is headed to Huntingdon as a defensive back. Wilkes played defense this year and found success with 39 tackles and one sack. Now he will take that to the next level.
“They told me they watched me as a running back and I was great there, but they want me as a DB,” Wilkes said. “I’m happy with that. I like that. And they know what I can do with the ball in my hands so they said if they need me on that side, they can always call me up.”
Wilkes knows he has what it takes to make an impact on and off the field for Huntingdon. If he is asked to step on the field early, he will go out and make plays in the secondary. But if he is just needed for leadership early on, he doesn’t mind pushing his teammates in the right direction. His leadership is what made Wilkes one of the fan favorites on Elmore County’s football and basketball teams in his career, and now he hopes that community love follows him to Montgomery.
“Staying close to home was super important to me and now all of my people can come watch me play,” Wilkes said. “I’ll have a good chance at having my family, friends, coaches and the Eclectic community who can come watch me play.”
CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI
TOP: ECHS family and consumer sciences teacher Natasha McMillian wipes some of the whipped cream from her face after getting pied for a good cause.
ABOVE: McMillian allowed a student to pie her in the face in celebration of the mathematical Pi Day. BELOW: Students at Elmore County High School celebrated Pi Day last week. In addition to raising funds to pie a teacher, students walked away from the event with an oatmeal creme pie.
Elmore County’s CJ Wilkes has committed to play defensive back at Huntingdon College. The former running back scored 17 touchdowns and recorded 39 tackles the last two seasons.