The Wetumpka Herald 08-24-22

Giving back through Operation Helping Heroes

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Holtville High School basketball coach arrested

By Cliff Williams Staff Writer

When Country Financial told agent Lani Hudgins it had a donation to help first responders in the Wetumpka area, she knew the right place to go.

community.”

Hudgins should know. Many in her family have and are involved in law enforcement across the Southeast.

Operation Helping Heroes is a program from Country Financial to provide funding for essential equipment, supplies and support for heroes in the community.

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

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

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

“My husband is a former police officer in Montgomery,” Hudgins said. “He went through the academy [in Montgomery] in 1995 and we went down to Florida. He was a deputy in Pinellas County. Now we are back in Alabama.”

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

is now dating a police officer in North Carolina. He just graduated from the academy.”

Wetumpka deputy police chief Ed Reeves thanked Hudgins for the support. “We greatly appreciate it,” Reeves said.

Franklin said investigators with the Elmore County Sher iff’s Office have the alleged vic tim’s phone. Authorities collect ed Wilson’s phone as well.

“They said, ‘We have this available and it’s for heroes,” Hudgins said. “The only heroes I think of really are police officers. I know what they do for the

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

Hudgins joked about the police department trying to cash the check she brought for pictures — the big cardboard one.

Now Hudgins’ husband is a volunteer firefighter in Elmore County but she still has current ties to law enforcement.

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

“My brother in law is a police officer in Florida,” Hudgins said. “My daughter

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

“I have a big check but have a real check as well,” Hudgins said. “It’s my honor to be able to help y’all. I want to be able to give back to the community.”

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

Chamber’s reIMAGINE Women’s Summit attracting attention

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Chamber holds luncheon welcoming members

By Cliff Williams Staff Writer

The Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce is hosting a conference to inspire women.

Chamber Executive Director Shellie Whitfield is hoping the reIMAGINE Women’s Summit will show women they are not stuck in being stereotyped.

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 idea is if we reimagine ourselves outside of the age-old narrative, then we in turn can imagine ourselves in business,” Whitfield said. “In turn imagine the impact we can have within our communities and beyond.”

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

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

The chamber has lined up seven women speakers from across the nation and no two are the same.

See CHAMBER, Page A3

“We are bringing in women of all

Chamber hosting summer luncheon

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Nautical but Nice is coming to the Wetumpka Civic Center thanks to the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce.

This year’s summer luncheon is meant to reintroduce chamber members and others to the outdoor opportunities available in the area.

SATURDAYS WITH SAWYER

in the driver seat of his vehicle.

DOWNTOWN ART EVENT TO SHOWCASE LOCAL ARTISTS

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Don Sawyer is bringing his artist friends back to downtown Wetumpka Saturday for the Downtown Artists Downtown Art Show.

Sawyer believes Wetumpka is an artist mecca with its downtown shops, galleries and artists in the streets.

According to Wetumpka police chief Greg Benton, this was not a random shooting.

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

This is the first homicide in Wetumpka in over three years. The last homicide in

“It’s not a good way to start out the new Benton didn’t want to speculate on the

“We wanted to focus on how amazing it is that we are surrounded by water and outdoor recreation,” Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Shellie Whitfield said. “There is so much to do. I am constantly amazed at how many people that live in this region that don’t know or either take advantage of that.”

Holtville’s Futral Alabama principal of the year

Staff Report

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

schoolwide assembly at Holtville High School. Elmore County Superintendent Richard Dennis was in attendance for the presentation.

“What we are doing is trying to show everyone Wetumpka is an art center,” Sawyer said. “We have all these artists in Wetumpka and nearby. They are as good as any across the country. We can compete with SOHO.”

Whitfield said the area is thriving on tourism efforts since HGTV highlighted the area and believes the public needs

The High School Principal of the Year award was presented to Futral on Friday, Jan. 28 during a

“Kyle Futral is an exceptional principal and is very proactive and innovative in his thinking and approaches to managing his school,” Dennis said,

Sawyer said some of the artists represented in the show have their work on display in the New York galleries.

As principal of Holtville High School, Futral has transformed

the school culture from that of a school struggling with low mo rale, achievement and attendance to a school that strives for excel lence. 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

years.

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

WILSON

increase in CCR rate and a 20 per cent increase in ACT proficiency in the last five

SUBMITTED THE HERALD Members of the Wetumpka Police Department accept a donation from Operation Helping Heroes.

CLIFF WILLIAMS | THE HERALD

Downtown Wetumpka artist Don Sawyer has started to invite a few of his artist friends for Saturdays with Sawyer.

Police Reports

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

AUG. 14

Theft was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

AUG. 13

Domestic violence was reported on Coosa River Parkway.

AUG. 10

Theft was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

AUG. 9

Harassing communications was reported on Chapel Lakes Lane.

Theft was reported on U.S. Highway 231. AUG. 7

Domestic violence was reported on Outhlacoochee Street.

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

AUG. 18

A suspicious vehicle was reported on East Roosevelt Street.

AUG. 17

Assistance was given to the Tallassee Fire Department on Gilmer Avenue.

A traffic accident with injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

A suspicious vehicle was reported on Friendship Road.

A domestic incident was reported on Third Avenue.

A private property traffic accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

LUNCHEON

Continued from A1

Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

Identity theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

Trespassing was reported on Riley Road.

Harassment was reported on Riley Road.

Assistance was given to a motorist on Highway 229.

Suspicious activity was reported on Main Street. AUG. 16

Debris was reported in the roadway on Highway 229.

A domestic incident was reported on Azalea Street.

A welfare check was conducted on Notasulga Road.

A suidice attempt was reported on Stewart Street.

A welfare check was conducted on Barnett Boulevard.

Suspicious activity was reported on Macedonia Road.

Domestic violence was reported on Adams Street. AUG. 15

A white male was arrested on Gilmer Avenue.

Animal control was requested on Rickey Lane.

A private property traffic accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

Animal control was requested on Kelly Place.

An animal complaint was reported on Paxton Drive.

Assistance was given to a motorist on the Fitzpatrick

information about activities just down the street.

“With continued focus on tourism, let’s do a luncheon based on water tourism and water recreation and all things to do around water,” Whitfield said. “It has evolved.”

The chamber has invited Alabama Power Company’s Lee Townsend to be the speaker.

“He is going to talk about all the hiking and biking trails around the water,” Whitfield said. “The fishing, the kayaking too.

REIMAGINE

Continued from A1

ages, races and different career fields,” Whitfield said. “They can speak to the fact they had reimagined themselves or their communities and done amazing things.”

The keynote speaker is Stephanie Bryan, Tribal Chair Poarch Creek Indians.

“She is the first female tribal leader for the Poarch Creek,” Whitfield said.

Farmington, New Mexico Chamber of Commerce CEO Jamie Church will speak about how her community has changed.

“Farmington has had to reimagine itself

Bridge.

Assistance was given during a medical call on Courtland Drive.

A suspicious vehicle was reported on Friendship Road. AUG. 14

A suspicious vehicle was reported on Industrial Parkway.

An animal complaint was reported on West James Street.

Reckless driving was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

A Black male was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

Gun shots were reported on Ashurst Bar Road. AUG. 13

A welfare check was conducted on King Street.

Harassment was reported on Freeman Avenue.

A juvenile complaint was filed on Rickey Lane. Harassment was reported on Wood Street.

Gun shots were reported on Third Avenue.

A suspicious vehicle was reported on Notasulga Road.

A suspicious vehicle was reported on Friendship Road.

Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

Theft was reported on Rickey Lane.

Theft was reported on Rickey Lane.

A vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road.

All of that.”

The water and outdoor theme even extends to the lunch menu. Lunch is sponsored by The Wharf.

“Noah Griggs and The Wharf are doing the most amazing menu,” Whitfield said.

The speaker is handled and so is lunch, but Whitfield is working on setting the scene.

“I was going to put boats on the table but why when you can do something with these fish,” Whitfield said. “I’m going to make centerpieces with them.”

Whitfield chose the theme of the luncheon — “Nautical but Nice” — to generate interest.

outside of oil and gas,” Whitfield said. “She is a great podcaster and really charismatic person.”

Lily Nizam is a former Mrs. Alabama who comes from a unique background having moved to Alabama from New York.

“Her parents were Chinese immigrants,” Whitfield said. “She is going to speak about daring to be yourself outside what your culture teaches you.”

Leslie Sanders is a vice president with Alabama Power Company.

“She is in a male dominated career field,” Whitfield said. “The first time I met I was like you go girl.”

Jo Pinto is an editor and author. Pinto was

A vehicle accident without injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

Assistance was given during a medical call on Wall Street. AUG. 12

A welfare check was conducted on East Patton Street.

A noise complaint was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

A domestic dispute was reported on Log Circle.

A white female was arrested during a domestic dispute on Lower Tuskegee Road.

Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

A white male was arrested on Freeman Avenue.

Assistance was given to a citizen on McNeal Street. AUG. 11

A white female was arrested during a traffic stop on Outer Drive.

Animal control was requested on Hickory Street.

A domestic dispute was reported on Highway 229.

Theft was reported on Benson Avenue.

A traffic accident without injuries was reported on Jordan Avenue.

A suspicious vehicle was reported on James Street.

A traffic accident without injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

A welfare check was requested at the Thurlow Dam.

“You want people to stop when they see the email and read it,” Whitfield said.

It’s all in effort to connect businesses and business owners with each other. Whitfield said that is when a chamber is successful.

“I really don’t do anything,” Whitfield said. “I’m just the conduit that puts things together.The job of the chamber is to provide opportunities for people to get together and connect. I try and create a really warm, relaxed atmosphere.”

The luncheon is Thursday at noon. Call the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce at 334567-4811 to register.

one of first blind students to integrate into public schools in the 1970s.

“Her parents never treated her any differently,” Whitfield said. “She walked to school, graduated from public schools. Was on the high School swim team, went to college, got married, had a child and just published her fourth book.”

Locals fill out the rest of the speaker lineup.

Rana Futral is the c hief financial officer and a bank president with First Community Bank of Central Alabama.

“She is one of two female bank presidents in the state of Alabama,” Whitfield said. “She is awesome.”

Dr. Darcy Blankenship is a family practitioner at River Oak Medical in Wetumpka.

“She focuses heavily on women’s health, a large portion of that is self care,” Whitfield said. “I have heard her speak before and was like, ‘You are all in.’”

There is also a business expo with about 15 to 20 women owned and led businesses. Whitfield said there will be women contractors, quilters, jewelry makers, artists, authors and more.

Whitfield said the chamber is partnering with the hospitality program at the Elmore County Technical Cen-

ter under the Elmore County Schools umbrella.

“They are helping register and bringing people in and serving lunch,” Whitfield said. “It will help teach them how to do an event and let them meet some really amazing powerful women that will inspire them.”

Whitfield said the students will be making a special cookie for the event as well.

The event is attracting the attention of people beyond Wetumpka and Elmore County. Whitfield said a from Farmington, New Mexico is coming to join Church and that two vans of people are coming from Elizabethton, Tennessee.

“We have leaderships from other chambers coming from all across the state coming too,” Whitfield said.

Whitfield hopes attendees to the women’s conference on Sept. 8 will stay a little longer after the conference and visit Wetumpka businesses to further connect with each other.

“It’s about cohesion over competition,” Whitfield said. “We want to love and inspire. It is hard to be a woman, be in business and be a mother and wife. It’s a difficult playing field. We just need to love each other through it.”

Cost of gasoline still on the decline

Average gasoline prices in Alabama have fallen 8.0 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.45 per gallon Monday, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 3,348 stations in Alabama. Prices in Alabama are 50.4 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 63.5 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has declined 6.3 cents in the last week and stands at $4.97 per gallon.

According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Alabama was priced at $2.89 per gallon Sunday while the most expensive was $4.39 per gallon, a difference of $1.50 per gallon.

The national average price of gasoline has fallen 5.1

cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.86 per gallon Monday. The national average is down 51.3 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 72.2 cents per gallon higher than a year ago, according to GasBuddy data compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering over 150,000 gas stations across the country.

Historical gasoline prices in Alabama and the national average going back ten years:

August 22, 2021: $2.81 per gallon (U.S. Average: $3.14 per gallon)

August 22, 2020: $1.87 per gallon (U.S. Average: $2.18 per gallon)

August 22, 2019: $2.24 per gallon (U.S. Average: $2.60 per gallon)

August 22, 2018: $2.52 per gallon (U.S. Average:

$2.82 per gallon)

August 22, 2017: $2.08 per gallon (U.S. Average: $2.34 per gallon)

August 22, 2016: $1.92 per gallon (U.S. Average: $2.17 per gallon)

August 22, 2015: $2.18 per gallon (U.S. Average: $2.62 per gallon)

August 22, 2014: $3.20 per gallon (U.S. Average: $3.43 per gallon)

August 22, 2013: $3.28 per gallon (U.S. Average: $3.52 per gallon)

August 22, 2012: $3.52 per gallon (U.S. Average: $3.71 per gallon)

Neighboring areas and their current gas prices: Birmingham- $3.45 per gallon, down 9.1 cents per gallon from last week’s $3.54 per gallon.

Montgomery- $3.43 per

gallon, down 9.1 cents per gallon from last week’s $3.52 per gallon.

“While some areas saw gas prices rise slightly last week, the national average saw yet another weekly decline, extending the streak to ten straight weeks. The pace of declines is certainly slowing down as oil prices have bounced up slightly, but the West Coast and Northeastern U.S. are areas that still may see gas prices decline, while the South and Midwest see the drop fade and potentially slight increases,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “In addition to falling gasoline prices, the average price of diesel has fallen below $5 per gallon for the first time since March, likely helping to cool off aggressive inflation

Millbrook police investigating felony theft

The Millbrook Police Department is investi -

gating a felony theft and seeks the public’s help in identifying the suspect.

Millbrook investigators released photos

of an unknown suspect wanted for a felony theft of property. On August 14, 2022, at approximately 8 p.m., an unknown male entered Walmart located at 145 Kelley Boulevard in Millbrook. Once inside, the suspect stole an iPhone 13 Max from a display in the electronics department and left the business. The iPhone was valued at $799. This subject is wanted for theft of property in the third degree.

If you have any information regarding the identity of this subject or his whereabouts, please immediately call the police or CrimeStoppers using the 24-hour tip line at 334215-STOP (7867) or 1-833-AL1-STOP (2517867) or download the P3-tips app. Make sure you receive a tip id and password in order to dialog with Investigators in case there is a follow-up question. Your tip may lead to a

Suspect wanted for fraudulent use of a credit card now in custody

The Prattville Police Department is no longer searching for a suspect involved in the fraudulent use of a credit card after Gregory Waites was taken into custody last week.

The Prattville Police Department was investigating the fraudulent use of a credit card and was seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspect. Investigators released photos of the then unknown suspect wanted for fraudulent use of a credit card Monday, Aug. 15.

On July 23, at approximately 5:26 p.m., one unknown male – now identified as Gregory Waites — was observed paying for a prepaid Visa card using a stolen credit card at the Millbrook Walmart.

This subject was wanted for his involvement in fraudulent use of credit card offenses in Prattville, Millbrook and Hoover.

Waites has been charged with fraudulent use of a credit card.

numbers. Thus far, Mother Nature has spared us from disruptions from hurricanes, but that remains a wildcard as we head into the peak of hurricane season.”

GasBuddy is a voice for

gas prices and a source for station-level data. GasBuddy’s survey updates 288 times every day from a diverse list of sources covering nearly 150,000 stations nationwide.

Staff report

TPI Staff

cash reward.

If you need to remain anonymous call CrimeStoppers.

Staff report TPI Staff

SUBMITTED THE HERALD

The unknown suspect, pictured, is wanted in relation to a felony theft case.

SUBMITTED THE HERALD

The suspect wanted for fraudulent use of a credit card, pictured above, was identified as Gregory Waites and arrested.

Publisher Kaitlin

Managing Editor

“Our liberty cannot be guarded but by the freedom of the press, nor that be limited without danger of losing it.” —Thomas Jefferson

Mission

The Herald strives to report the news honestly, fairly and with integrity, to take a leadership role and act as a positive influence in our community, to promote business, to provide for the welfare of our employees, to strive for excellence in everything we do and above all, to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves.

Our Directory Staff

Telephone: (334) 567-7811 | Fax: (334) 567-3284

Website: www.thewetumpkaherald.com

Management

Steve Baker Publisher, 256-414-3190 steve.baker@thewetumpkaherald.com

Kenneth Boone Chairman, 256-234-4284 kenneth.boone@thewetumpkaherald.com

Angela Mullins

Business & Digital Publishing Director, 256-414-3191 angela.mullins@thewetumpkaherald.com

Kaitlin Fleming Managing Editor, 256-234-3412 kaitlin.fleming@alexcityoutlook.com

Betsy Iler Magazine Editor in Chief, 256-234-4282 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com

Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, 256-414-3177 marketing@thewetumpkaherald.com

Audra Spears Art Director, 256-414-3189 audra.spears@thewetumpkaherald.com

Erin Burton Audience Development Director, 256-234-7779 erin.burton@thewetumpkaherald.com

Lee Champion Production Manager, 256-414-3017 lee.champion@thewetumpkaherald.com

Newsroom

Dalton Middleton Sports Editor, 334-350-3922 dalton.middleton@thewetumpkaherald.com

Advertising Sales

Marilyn Hawkins Regional Sales Manager, 334-350-3917 marilyn.hawkins@thewetumpkaherald.com

Sheryl Jennings Marketing Consultant, 334-452-6011 sheryl.jennings@thewetumpkaherald.com

Circulation

Linda Ewing Office Clerk, 256-414-3175 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com

Wetumpka

What’s your

Opinion?

Alabama is a big front porch

Under the title “Alabama is a Big Front Porch,” made famous by the legendary Alabama storyteller, Kathryn Tucker Wyndham, I will continue to share some personal political stories with you this week.

As many of you know, I have been friends with our iconic, senior U.S. Senator, Richard Shelby, for close to four decades. History will reveal Senator Shelby as Alabama’s greatest U.S. Senator and folks, that is saying a mouth full because we have had some great ones. We have had a cadre of great Senators including Lister Hill, John Sparkman, John Bankhead, and Howell Heflin along with Shelby. As Chairman of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Shelby has brought untold hundreds of millions of dollars home to Alabama. It would take a book or volumes of books to tell the story of Shelby’s prowess at bringing home the bacon to his beloved state. He is completing 36 years in the Senate this year.

Two of my favorite Alabamians and loyal friends are former Congressman and now University of South Alabama President, Jo Bonner and one of the finest ladies in the state, Dora James of Opelika. I visit with each of these two friends almost weekly. They graciously read the column and give me feedback.

Jo Bonner epitomizes the adage of being a true southern gentleman. He is admired and beloved all over the state, more than he can imagine.

Dora James epitomizes a true southern lady. She is admired and revered in Lee County. She is a true philanthropist and modest, kind and genuinely sweet person. About seven years ago, she hosted

STEVE FLOWERS Columnist

book signings for me at Auburn University and in Opelika that attracted several hundred folks at each, not because of me but because of her.

Speaking of memorable book signing events, the people of Jasper and Walker County hosted a large event at which Congressman Robert Aderholt was gracious enough to travel down from Washington to introduce me. Over the years, I have enjoyed a special closeness and connection to the folks in Jasper/Walker County, who read my column in The Daily Mountain Eagle. They have a rich political heritage with the Bankheads, Carl Elliott, Tom Bevill, and others.

To show how old I am getting and how long I have been writing this column, it seems that every state senator I know says, “Please do not write something bad about me because my mama reads your column religiously every week and has for decades.”

Speaking of books, I had the opportunity to meet and visit with the legendary author of To Kill A Mockingbird, Nelle Harper Lee. Folks in Monroeville, who knew her well from their generation, called her “Nelle.” Even though she had an apartment in New York that she purchased when her book came out in the 1960’s, Nelle Harper Lee lived her entire life in Monroeville. She lived with her sister, Alice, who was a good bit older than Nelle. I am told that Alice was the first

female lawyer in Alabama. She was one of the most prominent lawyers in Monroeville and lived to be over 100. Alice and Nelle were neither married.

Nelle Harper Lee’s novel, To Kill A Mockingbird, is one of the five most read and purchased books in history. I am told by Monroeville old timers that it is a total allegory. It is simply a story of Harper Lee growing up in Monroeville. All the characters are real, even Boo Radley.

One day a few years ago, Harper Lee sent word to me that she enjoyed and read my column, weekly, in the Monroe Journal and would like to meet me. I journeyed to Monroeville, and we exchanged greetings and she gave me a signed copy of her book. I thanked her and told her that it was bought and read by quite a few more people than mine. She was a person of very few words and renowned for her privacy and reclusiveness. The only thing she said to me, substantively, was, “You are taller than you look like in your picture.”

I thanked her for her time and the visit and book. When I got back into my car, I called my older daughter, who is a lawyer in Birmingham, and said, “I know when I die you are going to just pile up my books and throw them away, but there is one you might want to save.”

We will continue with more stories next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at: www. steveflowers.us.

The WeTumpka herald

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

Letter to the Editor

The decomposition of common sense

You know when something has been dead for so long, it begins to rot, smell, and decompose. Back in 1994, writer Philip K. Howard published a book entitled “The Death of Common Sense”. Well, today Common Sense has begun to rot, smell and decompose. In this book he laid out truths in 1994 but have begun to decompose in 2022. Other current writers, (to include myself) have begun to smell this rot.

Here are some of the commonsense items that I think are decomposing at a rapid rate. And really do smell after introduction.

*For the past several political administrations, the party in power suffered gigantic loses in the midterm elections. Possibly not in 2022. For the fear of one man, the republican party is satisfied to sit and rot/smell thinking that they will succeed in the mid-terms without drastically battling the “No common sense” Democrats.

*The US Army is in the worst/ serious decline since the 1970s. Current Army leaders thought that discharging thousands of trained troops for not receiving a very questionable vaccination would be a bump in the road. Surprisesomething smells in Washington. The recruiting command is in dire needs of troops to complete basic training to fill these slots. There are not enough volunteer soldiers to enlist, and when they do, they must undergo remedial training to even get ready for basic training. Even when they have been paid $50,000 enlistment bonuses. There are not enough Battalion commanders in the Reserve units, so the active Army must assign trained officers to Reserve slots to keep the Reserve operating. As many as 40,000 trans-gender troops cannot be deployed for lack of medical support in remote areas of the world.

Lack of common sense has now

decomposed to ignorant rot.

*Because of increasing lack of common sense to the point of asinine thinking, cities and counties are defunding their police, or even disbanding the police department altogether because they cannot fire rogue cops. To go along with these drastic actions, the President of the United States has called a crime summit, to try and discuss/ beg people to do better and help cut crime in the police missing streets of this nation. Completely decomposed!!

I very often say the following in today’s time, common sense has completely decomposed, and American Workmanship has dissolved. We see hiring posters all over our nation, but when you go into businesses, there are no customers – so why do they need employees??

Dale Bain Millbrook, AL.

Kenneth Boone, Chairman Steve Baker,

Fleming,

Opinions expressed in

columns and letters to the

do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the management of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

News from the Humane Society of Elmore County

By REA CORD Executive Director

by The Cloverdale Listening Room to benefit the Humane Society of Elmore County. Join us THIS Friday, 26 August, starting at 7 pm at Warehouse 231, 3496 Wetumpka Highway, Montgomery, AL 36110 as SEC football returns and OTI, Bama Sound w/Cameron DuBois & special guests perform to benefit our Shelter.

Pet of the Week – Archie

Archie is a five-year old male, about 30 lbs, looks like a possible Heeler/JRT mix. He was found as stray and brought to us but no one came looking. He is a very lowkey boy actually, good with other dogs & cats, bit more independent - happy to just do his own thing. Likes to explore.

Our adoption fees are $100 for dogs & $50 for cats under oneyear-old; cats over one-year-old can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee completely covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, de-worming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough, free health exam with your participating veterinarian.

If you are interested in meeting Archie or any of our pets, our first step is our Adoption Application you can do here: https:// elmorehumane.org/adoption-application-online-form2.html . Once approved, we will coordinate with you to set up an appointment to meet & adopt.

We are located at 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, AL, 36092, our phone number is 334567-3377 and our website is www. elmorehumane.org for more information.

Community Calendar

AUG. 25

FARMERS MARKET

- City of Wetumpka Farmers Market season will run every Thursday until August 25. The market will be open from 4 to 7 p.m. at 304 E. Coosa Street in Wetumpka. Visit the market to purchase homemade goods, homegrown produce and more. For more information, call 334567-5147.

SEPT. 24

TITUS BLUEGRASS

FESTIVAL - Titus Community Center, 5859 Titus Road from 10:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. Come join and enjoy bluegrass music featuring Homestead, Over The Mountain and Shannon Slaughter. Admission $10, children 12 and under free. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy a day of music, concessions and arts and crafts. Everyone is welcome.

ONGOING

PRESCHOOL

STORYTIME : After more than a year long hiatus, Preschool Storytime has resumed at the Wetumpka Public Library. The first story time was held on Friday, May 14, and will take place every Friday at the library at 10 a.m.

ECLECTIC TOWN

COUNCIL MEETIN GS: 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 mem -

Get your tickets here ($20): https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/2022-college-football-kickoff-concert-tickets-392887666587

Wear your favorite team apparel — Alabama Crimson Tide vs Auburn Tigers! Scoring will be done by counting the number of Alabama and Auburn logos (one logo per person) and our featured speakers will announce the results at “Half Time” between the bands’ sets.

For every “touchdown” (7 fans representing either Alabama or Auburn) the event will donate an 8 pound bag of dry pet food to our Shelter.

Tailgating? Absolutely! BYOB and

food! Tailgating/doors will commence/ open at 6:30 PM.

Featured Celebrity Speakers: Charlie Trotman was Auburn’s starting quarterback from 1977 to 1979 and later played a season with the USFL’s Birmingham Stallions.

Preston Gothard started at tight end for Alabama in 1983 and 1984 and went on to play four seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Doug Amos hosts “Max Roundtable” on 107.5 ESPN The Ticket sports radio and “The Score” on WCOV FOX20 television.

About the bands:

Outside The Inside (OTI) has been the River Region’s favorite rock band for many years. Lost My Soul, their first album of original songs, was released in 2021 and is available wherever you get your music. They begin work on their sophomore release in August.

Bama Sound is a musical cooperative featuring Cameron DuBois, an up-and-coming singer/songwriter with roots in R&B, pop, and country music. Their album Cloverdale is in the completion stages, with its first single “Breakaway” due for release soon.

Get in the game and let’s pack Warehouse 231 this Friday!

bership) at the Martin Luther King Center at 200 North Lancaster St. in Wetumpka.

LIVING WORD: You belong here. You and your family are always welcome here. We are located at 1826 Kowaliga Road Eclectic, across from the Dollar General. Call 334-4920777 for more information.

OPEN MIC: The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts an open mic jam session from 7 to 9 p.m. every second Friday of the month at 560 Highway 9 in Equality. There is no charge but donations are welcome as they keep the center running. Bring a snack or finger food to share during the intermission.

RED HIL L COMMUNITY CLUB MEETINGS: Red Hill Community Club Meetings are held every second Monday of the month. Join the Red Hill Historical Preservation Association in the auditorium of the Old Red Hill School, located off state Route 229 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss upcoming events.

MOUNT HEBRON CHURCH OF CHRIST: Come join us at 4530 Mt. Hebron Road in Eclectic. Our Sunday school begins at 9 a.m. followed by worship service at 10:30. There is also a Wednesday night Bible study at 7 p.m. For more information call Pastor Edwin Walker at 334-5412025

LUNCH AND LEARN: Lunch and learn Tuesdays with Kelly are scheduled at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery at 124 Company Street in Wetumpka from noon to 1 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. For more information, visit www.thekelly.org.

CDC confirms 34 cases of monkeypox in Alabama

report TPI Staff

Alabama has seen 34 confirmed cases since the most recent outbreak of monkeypox, one of the lowest numbers of cases in the nation.

According to the ADPH, the agency continues to respond to additional cases of monkeypox in the state and follow guidance from the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC). As of August 22, the ADPH reports 34 cases in Alabama. More cases are expected as testing increases.

The ADPH investigates each case to provide education regarding isolation and potential treatment, as well as identify contacts who might benefit from the vaccine. Not all cases of monkeypox require treatment, but cases do need to isolate and follow infection control to reduce transmission of the virus to other people. Direct contacts of cases may benefit from vaccines given within four to 14 days of contact.

Alabama has received 1,271 doses of Jynneos vaccine and expects to receive about 4,600 additional doses. More vaccine doses will be made available, but the ADPH does not have allocation numbers, at this time.

Due to limited vaccine doses, the CDC has provided information for those persons at greatest risk to contract monkeypox virus. The public does not need to take Jynneos vaccine unless they are contacted about cases or have other risk factors. Postexposure vaccine will be made available to those who have been exposed to a person with monkeypox within the previous 14 days or to those who are at higher risk of being exposed.

County health departments in Alabama will have vaccines for those determined to need vaccines. ADPH is identifying additional healthcare providers to administer vaccines to persons at highest risk.

Anyone can be infected with monkeypox. In this outbreak, male-to-male sexual contact has been a risk factor. Mon-

keypox is usually transmitted through close, intimate, skin-to-skin contact or through broken skin, respiratory droplets or mucous membranes. The CDC lists the following ways monkeypox is spread:

Direct contact with an infectious rash, scabs or body fluids

Respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling or sex Touching objects, fabrics (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the rash or body fluids of someone with monkeypox Being scratched or bitten by an infected animal

Monkeypox causes a rash that starts as flat spots, which then becomes raised, develop into vesicles, and finally appear pustular. In this outbreak, some people have only had a rash, but other symptoms, such as fever, chills, enlarged lymph nodes, muscle aches and headaches can occur with the rash. Monkey-

pox can spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed. This can take two to four weeks. Individuals with any symptoms of monkeypox should discuss them with their healthcare provider.

Persons being tested for monkeypox should follow isolation guidelines until diagnosed. Individuals who are identified as contacts to monkeypox cases should monitor themselves for signs and symptoms of disease.

Nationwide, case counts have now reached 14,115, with the highest number of cases being reported in California, Texas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois and New York. The highest case count has been reported by New York, at 2,744 cases. The lowest reported case count is from Wyoming with a total of zero cases reported or confirmed in the state.

Neighboring states are varied in their case counts. Mississippi has only 18 cases confirmed, while Georgia has 1,066. Tennessee has reached 107 cases and Florida is now at 1,372.

“We will have 29 artists lining both sides of Company Street,” Sawyer said. “We have folklore realist, photo realist, expressionist, handmade jewelry, wood carving and more.”

Sawyer said he recruited many of the artists that will be part of the show, but it’s not just a one time pop up shop for the artists.

“Many already have their art in the stores of Wetumpka,” Sawyer said. “Many of the boutiques already have art hanging and for sale. The show will bring the artists out all day.”

Sawyer said the Saturday show will start at 10 a.m. and go until 5 p.m.

“It will go into the night if the artists want to,” Sawyer said. “It’s entirely up to the artists. We will also have David Jones playing music much of the day.”

Sawyer said he considers this the first art show of this magnitude in Wetumpka.

“I reformed artwalk and added 10 to 15 more artists,” Sawyer said. “I spent hours looking for and convincing some of the artists to be a part of it.”

Sawyer hopes to turn the event into a twice a year show in October and April. But just because the artists aren’t on the street doesn’t mean the show is over.

“The same artists will be on display in the stores of Wetumpka,” Sawyer said.

Sawyer hopes the idea of Wetumpka being an artist conclave grows as he believes there are plenty more local artists to be discovered.

“There are a lot of artists in the closet,” Sawyer said. “They are giving their paintings and such to children and grandchildren. I want them to come be a part of the growing artist community here in Wetumpka.”

Staff

Beach Day SuDoku

Using the symbols shown complete the puzzle below. You are to have one of each symbol in each vertical and horizontal row, as well as only one of each symbol in each of the four bold box areas.

NatioNal Beach Day

August 30 is National Beach Day! This is a day, founded in 2014, set aside to celebrate the Country’s beaches and all that they have to offer. It is also a day to help promote the preservation of our beaches. Keeping them clean and protecting the wildlife is important so that we may enjoy them for years to come! There are many things to do at the beach. You can explore wildlife, swim, play sports, or even just relax and rest. It is a great place for families and friends to enjoy the beautiful summer weather. Some beaches allow people to ride horses up and down the coast. There are many different color beaches; there are pure-white, sandy beaches, black-sand beaches, and even yellow-and red-sand beaches. Many sports activities can be fun in the water. Jet skis, sailboats, speed boats, skiing, and parasailing are just a few of the fun things that are available to people who are looking to have a good time on the water. In addition to protecting the beaches, it is important to remember safety when you are at the beach. For any outdoor water activity, use waterproof sunscreen with a high sun protection factor, or SPF, and reapply it often. Your skin can start to burn before you feel it. Sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes are always a good idea, too. Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration and heat stroke. If you are swimming in the water, always check with local authorities and your parents to make sure it is safe. Never swim without at least one buddy and use the buddy system. Many beaches have a colored flag system which tells you if the water is calm, to swim with caution, or to stay out of the water. Pay attention to the flag system, and never enter the water under a red flag or dangerous currents warning! How will you celebrate National Beach Day this year?

Beach tic-tac-toe

If you visit the beach this Summer, you can play a game of tic-tac-toe with a friend or family member. Play the four rounds of tic-tac-toe.

coNNect-the-DotS

hiDDeN oBjectS

Circle the 10 hidden objects below.

Beach Safety!

Always remember to practice beach safety! Never go to the beach without an adult. Drink lots of water and use plenty of sunscreen. When getting into the water, always use a lifejacket. Follow these tips to have a safe and fun day at the beach!

How to recognize a preacher

The dental hygienist was a new employee whom I’d not met.

“Where do you preach?” she asked.

“Why do you think I’m a preacher?” I responded.

“I just know,” she said.

I’ve wondered what the signal flag was.

Maybe it was the coffee stains on my teeth. Pastors must drink coffee since people often invite us to do so — coffee and conversation.

My dad had ulcers and we didn’t grow up drinking coffee. Ruth Barnes one day said, “I

MICHAEL BROOKS Columnist

can’t believe our pastor doesn’t drink coffee! Come to my house.”

I drank coffee for the first time at her kitchen table. It tasted bitter to me. She then added sweetener and cream, and it tasted better. I was 30 years old when this happened and got hooked.

Bethlehem East Baptist Church

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

Carrville Baptist Church

Regular hours of service are Sundays- 9 a.m. Sunday School and 10 a.m. Morning Worship. Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. the church offers Children’s

I later used this as an illustration of how the devil makes sin appear sweet and attractive, and everyone, including Ruth, had a good laugh.

Maybe the hygienist didn’t see tobacco stains and this was a clue. Smoking has never been one of my chosen sins, though I’ve known a handful of pastors who smoked. I suppose they thought they could hide it, but not so much.

One of my mentors smoked a pipe in his office. When you knocked on his door you could hear the desk drawer open where he hid the burning pipe,

Gospel Project, Youth Bible Study and Adult Prayer Meeting.

Regular office hours are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

East Tallassee United Methodist Church ETUMC is holding services on Sunday at 11 a.m. and at 5 p.m.

The “River’s Edge Flea Market” is open every Saturday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. The flea market is sponsored by the East Tallassee UMC and is located at the side of the old East Tallassee Hospital, across from the library. We will offer various priced booths. To

and then hear him spray air freshener in the room. You walked into the aroma of fresh pine or whatever. I thought this was a lot of bother. He should’ve just told people he used a pipe.

Nor did I wear any particular preacher clothes to the dentist’s office.

One of my Judson College colleagues, an Episcopalian rector, often wore his clerical collar. We Baptists don’t have such identifying clothing, especially these days. I remember when pastors and staff at least wore a tie to work, if not a

Church Briefs

reserve a space call Joan Wood at 334-312-4913 or Melanie Baker at 334-415-8314. All proceeds raised by ETUMC will be used for church-sponsored programs.

Episcopal Church of the Epiphany

Please join us for Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. 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 church website at http://epiphanytallassee.org/

full suit or blazer. One of my associates talked about how expensive it was to be a church staff member due to this expectation. Fortunately, now we can dress professionally, but casually, during the week.

And the pulpit dress code has changed. My generation was taught to wear your “Sunday best” to church, and I still wear a suit on Sundays. But I think I could go “tie-less” one Sunday, and nobody would care. I hear that some younger preachers wear skinny jeans and tee-shirts

First United Methodist Church “We are OPEN and everyone is WELCOME! Come worship with us in person Sunday mornings at 8:50 a.m. (contemporary) or 11 a.m. (traditional). Sunday School for all ages is offered Sunday mornings at 10 a.m., and a nursery is available for infants. CHILDREN & YOUTH: meet 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

in the pulpit, so it’s even more true that clothes don’t identify a preacher.

So, the mystery continues as to how this young lady knew my secret identity.

The late John Bisagno said, “Live as so no one would suspect you’re a preacher but wouldn’t be surprised if you were.”

Not bad advice.

“Reflections” is a weekly faith column written by Michael J. Brooks, pastor of the Siluria Baptist Church, Alabaster, Alabama. The church’s website is siluriabaptist.com.

website: fumctallassee.com or call us: 334-283-2195. FUMC Tallassee - 1 Jordan Avenue.”

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

Edgewood Academy opens season against defending champions

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The Edgewood Academy football team faces a tough test in its season opener.

The Wildcats open up the season at home on Friday, Aug. 25, at 7 p.m. When they take the field, they’ll face the defending AISA AA state champions in Autauga Academy.

The Generals will look like a brand new team, however. Coach Bobby Carr left the program in the offseason, and Trey Dunbar has taken over as head coach.

The Generals lost a lot of talent to graduation last year, and they lost even more to kids transferring out of the program after Carr left.

So while the talent is still there, there are plenty of

Edgewood Academy: QB Austin Champion passed for 2,215 yards and 28 touchdowns last season. … DL Bryson Boone recorded 66 tackles and 9.5 sacks last season. …

WR/DB Gabe LeMaster had 16 catches for 264 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Autauga Academy: RB Landen Henry rushed for 285 yards and 1 touchdown last year. … WR Noah Ray had 7 catches for 117 yards and 4 touchdowns. … DE Nigel Rugby had 3 sacks last season.

FOUR DOWNS

Autauga Academy is the defending AISA AA state champions.

Autauga Academy beat Edgewood Academy, 48-9, last season.

Autauga Academy leads Edgewood, 27-12, all-time in the series.

Edgewood Academy’s last win in the series came in 2013.

NEXT UP: Edgewood Academy at Chambers Academy; Autauga Academy at Bessemer Academy.

(1-0)

ELMORE COUNTY

AT AUTAUGAVILLE (1-0)

THE PLAYERS

Elmore County: QB Payton Stephenson totaled 282 yards and four touchdowns. … WR Jabari Murphy had six catches for 108 yards and two touchdowns. … RB CJ Wilkes had 109 rushing yards and one touchdown.

FOUR DOWNS

Elmore County beat Marbury, 35-17, last week; Autaugaville beat R.C. Hatch, 24-18.

Elmore County beat Autagaville, 28-0, the last time they met in 1979.

Elmore County leads Autaugaville, 8-2, all-time in the series.

Elmore County’s 17 points allowed last week is the lowest they have allowed since 2020.

NEXT UP: Elmore County hosts Sylacauga; Autaugaville at Notasulga.

HOLTVILLE (1-0) AT ALMA BRYANT (0-0)

THE PLAYERS

Holtville: RB Shawn Brackett has rushed for 100 yards and 5 touchdowns. … QB Tanner Potts has passed for 145 yards and 0 touchdowns. … WR Erik Adkins has 85 receiving yards and one touchdown.

FOUR DOWNS

Holtville beat Fultondale, 558, last week; Alma Bryant did not play.

Holtville and Alma Bryant have never played each other before.

Alma Bryant went 2-8 last season.

Holtville’s 55 points last week is the most the Bulldogs have

scored since 2018.

NEXT UP: Holtville at Shelby County; Alma Bryant hosts Daphne.

STANHOPE ELMORE (0-1) AT EUFAULA (0-0)

THE PLAYERS

Stanhope Elmore: QB Jacob Bryant has passed for 305 yards and two touchdowns. … WR Jackson Thomas has 12 catches for 162 yards and two touchdowns. … RB Davion Thomas has 119 rushing yards on 16 carries.

FOUR DOWNS

Stanhope Elmore lost to Shades Valley, 20-13, last week; Eufaula did not play.

Stanhope Elmore beat Eufaula, 24-20, last season.

Stanhope Elmore leads Eufaula, 8-7, all-time in the series.

Despite losing last season, Eufaula has won three of the last four in the series.

NEXT UP: Stanhope Elmore hosts Russell County; Eufaula at Headland.

TALLASSEE (1-0) AT BOOKER T. WASHINGTON (0-1) THE PLAYERS

Tallassee: QB Tyler Ellis has scored three touchdowns this season. … QB/ATH Cade Everson leads the team in rushing and has two touchdowns. …

DB James Bender scored a 98yard defensive touchdown last week.

FOUR DOWNS

Tallassee beat Reeltown, 3713, last week; BookerT.Washington lost to Trinity, 34-16.

Tallassee beat Booker T. Washington, 42-6, the last time they met in 2013.

Tallassee leads Booker T. Washington, 9-3, all-time in the series.

Booker T. Washington’s last win in the series came in 2007.

NEXT UP: Tallassee hosts Central Clay County; B.T. Washington hosts Montgomery Catholic.

WETUMPKA (1-0) AT BAKER (0-1)

THE PLAYERS

Wetumpka: RB Mike Dillard has rushed for 77 yards and two touchdowns. … LB Justin Crumbaugh has recorded 16 tackles, one INT and one fumble recovery. … QB Nate Rogers has totaled 53 yards and one touchdown.

FOUR DOWNS

Wetumpka beat Jeff Davis, 27-10, last week; Baker lost to Theodore, 32-3.

Wetumpka and Baker have never played each other.

Baker has scored only six total points in its last two games dating back to last season.

Wetumpka’s defense allowed no points and forced five turnovers last week.

NEXT UP: Wetumpka at Pike Road; Baker at Davidson.

LOCAL SPORTS CALENDAR

THURSDAY, AUG. 25

High School Volleyball Montgomery Academy at Elmore County Stanhope Elmore at Elmore County Marbury at Tallassee Holtville at Thorsby Edgewood Academy at Lee-Scott Trinity at Wetumpka

FRIDAY, AUG. 26

High School Football

Elmore

High

SATURDAY, AUG. 27

unknowns about the Generals entering the opening matchup.

“I know they lost a couple of kids but they’ve picked up a couple of kids,” head coach Chad Michael said. “They picked up a really good defensive lineman and a really good receiver. They have some good kids returning. Noah Ray is their quarterback

CRUMBAUGH’S INTUITION PUTS HIM ONE STEP AHEAD

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

When Bear Woods took the Wetumpka Indians head coaching job in January, he had already heard about how good linebacker Justin Crumbaugh was.

Woods, being a professional linebacker for the last decade, was excited to see him play and gauge just how good Crumbaugh was.

So during the spring, he simplified the defensive playbook that he was installing, and he just wanted to see who could run and who understood the game. He wanted to see the angles each players took, and who understood the timing of the play.

Following the spring game, he knew Crumbaugh was every bit of a linebacker that he was told about and more.

“There was one play that Justin made in the spring scrimmage that when we were watching the film, I had to stop. I turned to coach (Tyler) Johnson and I just told him ‘That’s it. That’s exactly what I wanted to see. That boy can play some football.’”

Woods finally got to see what anyone who has followed Wetumpka football has seen the last few seasons. Crumbaugh is entering his third year starting for the Indians, and he’s impressed in each of the last two seasons.

Elmore

MONDAY, AUG. 29

High

TUESDAY, AUG. 30

High

JAKE ARTHUR | THE HERALD

Edgewood Academy quarterback Austin Champion attempts a pass against Chambers Academy last year. He has 13 career starts under his belt.

Autauga Academy at Edgewood Academy

County at Autaugaville Holtville at Alma Bryant Stanhope Elmore at Eufaula Tallassee at Booker T. Washington Wetumpka at Baker

School Volleyball Elmore County at Mayor’s Cup Wetumpka at Mayor’s Cup

High School Volleyball

County at Mayor’s Cup Wetumpka at Mayor’s Cup

School Volleyball Benjamin Russell at Elmore County Tallassee at Stanhope Elmore

School Volleyball Wetumpka at Stanhope Elmore Holtville at Billingsley Lakeside Academy at Edgewood Academy

AUTAUGA ACADEMY (0-0) AT EDGEWOOD ACADEMY (0-0)

THE PLAYERS

LARRY ROBINSON THE HERALD

Wetumpka linebacker Justin Crumbaugh recorded 16 tackles, 1 fumble recover, and 1 interception in Wetumpka’s win over Jeff Davis on Friday.

Aug. 18 – at ACA/St. James

Aug. 23 – at Beauregard

Aug. 25 – MARBURY

Aug. 29 – at Stanhope Elmore

Sept. 1 – ELMORE COUNTY

Sept. 6 – at Benjamin Russell

Sept. 8 – at Holtville

Sept. 10 – at St. James Tournament

Sept. 13 – HOLTVILLE

Sept. 15 – WETUMPKA

Sept. 17 – at Elmore County Block Party

Sept. 19 – MARBURY

Sept. 20 – at Elmore County Sept. 22 – BEAUREGARD

Oct. 3 – STANHOPE ELMORE

Oct. 11 – BENJAMIN RUSSELL

Oct. 17-18 – Area Tournament

Oct. 20-22 – Super Regionals

Oct. 26-27 – State Tournament

HOME GAMES IN ALL CAPS

Aug.

Aug. 26-28 –

Aug. 29 – BENJAMIN

Sept. 1 – at Tallassee

Sept. 3 – at Mac Attack Tournament

Sept. 8 – at Marbury

Sept. 12 – BEAUREGARD/WETUMPKA

Sept. 13 – at Montgomery Academy

Sept. 15 – at Holtville

Sept. 17 – ECHS BLOCK PARTY IX TOURNAMENT

Sept. 19 – at Horseshoe Bend

Sept. 20 – TALLASSEE

Sept. 22 – HOLTVILLE

Sept. 26 – at Stanhope Elmore Sept. 27 – at Benjamin Russell

Sept. 29 – MARBURY

Oct. 1 – at Central Coosa Tournament

Oct. 3 – at ACA

Oct. 6 – at Beauregard/Opelika

Oct. 12-16 – Area Tournament

Oct. 21-23 – Super Regionals

Oct. 26-30 – State Tournament

INTUITION

Continued from B1

As a junior last year, Crumbaugh tallied 94 tackles, five tackles-for-loss, one sack, two quarterback hurries, and one interception.

He’s a run-stuffing linebacker first, like any linebacker should be, but he excels in the passing game as well. Already being good at it, Woods said he’s seen tremendous improvement in Crumbaugh’s ability to defend the pass both in man coverage and zone coverage.

“I find myself in the right place a the right time and I just make sure I wrap the guys up when I see them with the ball,” Crumbaugh said. “I try to get to the ball and secure any tackle I can. I want to be a beast on the field.”

Crumbaugh proved that in the Indians’ first game of the season last week. Against Jeff Davis, Crumbaugh tallied 16 tackles, one fumble recovery, one interception, and one defensive touchdown.

His name was called all night, and he was always in the right place at the right time. For that reason, he was named Wetumpka’s Player of the Week as the Indians’ defense allowed zero points and forced five turnovers. He had two of the five turnovers.

Being in the right place at the right time is something a coach can’t teach a player, says Woods. And while Crumbaugh, at 6-foot-1 and 225 pounds, has the perfect size, speed and strength to scare any opposing offensive coordinator, it’s his intuition that pushes him past other talented linebackers.

His effort already puts Crumbaugh a step ahead, while the intuition allows him to know exactly what is going on nearly every single play. That’s why he’s able to rack up the tackles he does as he finds himself in the right spots.

“Intuitive is the best word that describes him,” Woods said. “He knows how to play the game and to be successful at linebacker, you have to want to get to the football. He wants to get to the football and you see that when he plays. He leads by example and that’s what separates him.”

Crumbaugh is one of the team’s leaders this season, and he leads by example. He has a reserved personality, and that’s the biggest thing that Woods is trying to change with him.

In the first team meeting Woods had with the team, he pulled Crumbaugh to the front first, because he wanted him to become more vocal.

He doesn’t care if Crumbaugh wants to break down the team in the pre-game huddle or not, but he wants Crumbaugh to feel comfortable communicating the plays and what he sees on the field to the other 10 teammates.

He’s seen improvement in that facet of Crumbaugh’s personality, and he’s hoping it carries over to the field on August 19 when Wetumpka opens the season against Jeff Davis.

If he can do that, Woods has high exceptions for his Indians.

“If I can get him to communicate what he sees to the other 10 guys on the field, we’r going to be lights out,” Woods said. “You have to line people up and vocalize what you’re seeing in any given play or formation.”

Elmore County volleyball returns plenty of experience

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The Elmore County volleyball team will try for its 13th consecutive area championships this year, and the Lady Panthers enter the 2022 season in a good position to achieve that goal.

Elmore County returns the bulk of its team from last season, including multiple All-Area players along with a large senior class that features 10 girls.

The Lady Panthers won 25 games last season and reached the Super Regionals, and they could make it even farther this season.

“I think we have a pretty good foundation to start this season with,” head coach Kim Moncrief said.

“There are some things we need to work on, but playing games will help with those. We’re excited to get started. Our experience is a great thing to have. We have some strong seniors and juniors who were all starters last year.”

The position group with the biggest losses from last season is the hitters. Senior Seanna O’Daniel graduated from last year, and All-Area player Ally Orr did not return for her sophomore season.

But the position group could

EDGEWOOD Continued from B1

be just as strong. They are led by Coranda Lozada, one of the most talented hitters across the entire state of Alabama. She recorded 212 kills last year.

She is joined by senior Lizzy Brown, who missed most of last year with an injury. She suffered a broken arm during the first weekend of the season and sat out. This year, she will play a massive role up front.

Strong setter Abbi Williams will also help there as she is left-handed and is a strong hitter on the right side of the court.

“Lizzy is going to be a force to be reckoned with,” Moncrief said. “Abbi does her job so well too. She’s only a junior, but we are expecting a lot from her as a setter and a hitter. We’re pretty happy with where we are up front.”

Williams isn’t the only talented setter on the team. Courtney Sides and Annabelle Orr are also both back this year. Sides was a starter and she is also doing some right side hitting, and Orr got significant playing time last season. All three setters will play heavy minutes.

On defense, Hailey O’Brien will be wearing the libero jersey again, but she isn’t the only talented defensive player on the court. Taylor Ann Eason will roam the back line with

and he’s a really good athlete. They’re going to be in every game they play in because of him. They’re going to be really good.”

Ray did not play much quarterback last year as the Generals had Robert Rose leading the offense, but he still made plenty of plays for the offense.

As a receiver, he had seven catches for 117 yards and scored four times.

The Wildcats also have a playmaker leading the offense. Austin Champion returns for his senior year after starting all of last season and some of his sophomore season. Last season, he passed for over 2,200 yards and 28 touchdowns.

Champion isn’t the only returning starter for the Wildcats. They return six offensive starters and five defensive starters from last year’s team, and other plays who played a lot of meaningful snaps.

With 11 total starters returning, Michael is hoping his

O’Brien and both have the ability to dig any kill hit at them.

“Both of them saw so many reps last year when they split the position” Moncrief said. “Hailey wears the libero jersey, but both of them play the same amount of time. A lot of times you won’t recognize Taylor Ann but she’s extremely good. Having both of them back helps so much because they’ve seen so much and can read other team’s offenses.”

One point of emphasis that Moncrief is hoping to see improvement in is blocking at the net.

The team as a whole tallied 55 blocks last season, but Moncrief believes this team could add a few more. Madison Byram looks to be the main shot blocker, and will take on that role when she gets back from a small injury. She led the team with 16 blocks last year.

Morgan Spear and Allye Justiss will also take be big contributors on the defensive side of the net.

“Morgan has really stepped up this summer,” Moncrief said. “She’s not as tall as Madison, but she has a really good eye to read the hitters. Allye has had a lot of blocks this summer. All three middles kind of bring something different to the table so it will be interesting to see how we use them each game.”

team can avoid the dreaded ‘first-game jitters’ and play a clean and solid game.

“We’re hoping that we’re prepared,” Michael said. “We hope we don’t see a lot of mistakes like you usually see in the first week. You want to cut down on mental mistakes. We have a good amount of kids returning, so hopefully we won’t see a lot of those mistakes and know what we’re doing.”

To find some success on offense, the Wildcats will need to find a new threat at wide receiver. Last year, Trevor Rodie served as that player for Edgewood as he pulled in 1,100 yards and 17 touchdowns.

The top returning receiver for Edgewood is Gabe LeMaster, and the senior had 16 catches for 264 yards and two touchdowns.

He looks to be a big play threat this season and will try to take over a larger scoring role.

“Gabe is the type of kid that we have to get touches. We have to get him 10 to 15 touches either through the air, handoffs, or screens. We have to get him the ball. He’s our dynamic guy on our team and we have to figure out ways to get him the ball in different situations.”

25 – MONTGOMERY ACADEMY/STANHOPE ELMORE

at Mayor’s Cup

RUSSELL

HOME GAMES IN ALL CAPS

TALLASSEE

ELMORE COUNTY VOLLEYBALL VARSITY SCHEDULE

JAKE ARTHUR THE HERALD

Elmore County’s Hailey O’Brien digs during the AHSAA South Super Regional Volleyball Tournament last season.

PUZZLES & HOROSCOPE

ARIES (March 21-April 19) Oh joy! Today you are full of marvelous, creative ideas! You’re keen to socialize and enjoy the company of everyone. Accept all invitations to party. Enjoy sports events and fun times with kids. You’re wearing your heart on your sleeve! Tonight: Party! TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

This is a great day to entertain at home and enjoy family gatherings. It’s also a lovely day to explore redecorating ideas or to shop for beautiful things for your home. Many of you will explore real estate ideas, either for speculation or personal use. Tonight: Entertain. GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

This is a wonderful, upbeat day! Today you have something to say, which is why you want to share your ideas. You’re full of positive energy, which makes conversations with others, especially siblings, relatives and neighbors, pleasant and invigorating! Tonight: Schmooze! CANCER (June 21-July 22) This is an excellent day for business and commerce. Look for ways to boost your income. If you’re negotiating a nancial deal, be condent that you can ask for a little more or expect the best, because you just might get it. If shopping, you’ll be pleased with your purchases. Tonight: Make money.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) This is a wonderful, powerful day for you, because the Moon is in your sign getting energy from Mars while it also dances with lucky Jupiter. (It doesn’t get much better than this.) Trust your good fortune. Rally your forces and set them marching! Tonight: You win! VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Two different inuences are at play for you today. One message urges you to seek solitude in beautiful surroundings and pamper yourself privately. The other message makes you want to go out and be seen and talk to everyone. Maybe you will do a bit of both. Tonight: Happy privacy. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) You are a social sign, and today is a

fabulous day to socialize with others. In particular, you will enjoy time spent with friends as well as any kind of participation in groups, clubs, classes or conferences. You have lots of energy to interact with others, and you have something to say. Tonight: Enjoy friendships. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) You make a great impression on everyone today, which is good because people notice you today. In fact, some are discussing personal details about your private life. Fortunately, you are condent about whatever happens. You look good in your job! Enjoy work-related travel. Tonight: Take a bow.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Grab every chance to get away and do something different today. If you can travel, by all means, get outta Dodge. You will also be stimulated by the adventure of learning something new and meeting different people from other cultures. Do whatever you can to expand your world! Tonight: Explore!

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) This is an excellent day for nancial discussions. It’s also a good time to deal with disputes about shared property, inheritances or insurance matters, because you will likely come out smelling like a rose. Good fortune is with you. Sometimes a favorable deal is all about timing. Tonight: Bonus time.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) This is a great day to work with others. You will enjoy talking to partners, close friends or members of the general public. You might attract someone who is energetic. It’s a great day to enjoy sports, the theater, luncheons, entertaining diversions and fun times with kids. Tonight: Be friendly. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) Relations with co-workers are excellent today. People are upbeat, warm and generous. Others will respond in a positive way to your positive energy by wanting to please you. (Certainly, they’ll listen.) You might see ways to boost your income or get a raise! Tonight: Travel.

AlaScans

Public Notices

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE STATE OF Alabama COUNTY OF ELMORE

Default having been made of the terms of the loan documents secured by that certain mortgage executed by Justin D Hood And Margarite L Hood Husband And Wife to Compass Bank dated November 12, 2015; said mortgage being recorded on November 13, 2015, in Book 2015, Page 53080

LONG

Public Notices

Public Notices

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ELIMINATE ROACHES

Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. The undersigned, PNC Bank, National Association, successor by merger to BBVA USA, formerly known as Compass Bank, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash before the main entrance of the Court House in Elmore County, Alabama during the legal hours of sale (between 11am and 4pm), on the 29th day of September, 2022 the following property, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 15 according to the Subdivision of Arbor Ridge Plat No. the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 15, Page 108. Said property is commonly known as 78 Flatwood Rd, Wetumpka, AL 36092. the property address and the legal description the legal description will control. Said property will be sold subject to any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), the right of redemption of any taxing authority, all outstanding liens for public utilities which constitute liens upon the property, any matters which might be disclosed by an accurate survey and inspection of the property, any assessments, liens, encumbrances, easements, rights-of-way, zoning ordinances, restrictions, special assessments, covenants, the statutory right of redemption pursuant to Alabama law, and any matters of record including, but not limited to, those supeout above. Said property will be sold on an ; basis without any representation, warranty or recourse against the abovenamed or the undersigned. The successful bidder must present of the winning bid at the time and place of sale. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. The sale will be conducted subject (1) to prohibited under the U.S. Bank-of the loan with the holder of the Mortgage.

PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO BBVA USA, FORMERLY KNOWN AS COMPASS BANK as holder of said mortgage McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC Two North Twentieth 2 20th Street North, Suite 1000 Birmingham, AL 35203 (800) 275-7171 FT21@mccalla.com File No. 22-03424AL www.foreclosurehotline.net

Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 24, 31 and Sept. 7, 2022 22-03424AL

PUBLIC NOTICE

The following vehicles will be auctioned off by J&J Towing 65 Pierce Rd on 9-13-22 2007 Ford Focus VIN # 1FAFP34N57W160269 2011 HYUNDAI SONATA VIN # 5NPEC4AC0BH251622

Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 17 and 24, 2022 AV/07 FORD

PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default

gy of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. solely as nominee for Hometown Lenders, LLC, on August 15, 2016, said mortgage recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, in the undersigned Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Co, 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 atabama, on September 7, 2022, during the legal hours of sale, all of its rights, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Commence at an iron pin at the SW North, Range 20 East, Elmore 86 degrees 55 minutes 02 seciron pin on the East margin ofporwill Road, Gravel, said point Thence Northeasterly along said margin of road the follow--

grees 28 minutes 27 seconds

Thence leaving said margin of

degrees 0 minutes 00 seconds of Beginning. The above described property lies in the SW Township 20 North, Range 20 East, Elmore County, Alabama.. -

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

TIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a

PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Michael T. Shire and Sarah M. Shire, for and during their joint lives and, upon the death of either of them, then to the survivor of them in fee simple, husband and wife, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for Freedom Mortgage Corporation, on November 20, 2020, said mortgage Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in RLPY Book 2020 Page 89895; 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 Courthouse at Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on September 29, 2022, during the legal hours of sale, all of its rights, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 42, Block B, according to the Plat of Millbrook Manor Plat No. 2 as the same appears of record Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, In Plat Book 5 at Page 61. . Property street address for informational purposes: 2621 Ellen Ln , Millbrook, AL 36054.

Classifieds

time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price plus any deed recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law the address indicated below. Tifright to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion-

22-03887

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given the L&K Contracting Co., Inc. has completed the Highway 231 North Water Main Improvements Project for the Wetumpka Water Works & Sewer Board. Any claims held against same shall be itemized and presented to the Owner, Wetumpka Water Works & Sewer Board, P.O. Box 69, Wetumpka, AL 36092 and L&K Contracting Co., Inc., 4506 Hartford Hwy, Taylor, AL 36305.

Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 24, 31, Sept 7 and 14, 2022 CMPLT/WATERMAIN

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT OF COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE

In accordance with Section 16, Title 50, Code of Alabama (1940), notice is hereby given that Construction One Inc. Contractor(s) has completed the Contract for the Storage Building for Elmore County or the owner, Elmore County Commission, and has made said contract.

Construction One Inc. 1702 Forest Avenue Montgomery, Al. 36106

Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 10, 17, 24 and 31, 2022

COMPLETION

THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) to Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price plus any deed recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law the address indicated below. Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. Freedom Mortgage Corporation, (“Transferee”) Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., 2311 Highland Avenue South, Suite 330, Birmingham, AL 35205 www.tblaw.com TB File Number: 22-05935 08/17/2022, 08/24/2022, 08/31/2022

Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 17, 24 and 31 2022 22-05935

PUBLIC

NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION PETITION OF ANTONE ROBINSON, JR. CASE NO.: A2022-017 CASE NO.: A2022-018 NOTICE

Notice To:

Jarred Kentrell Thomas, Whose Whereabouts and Whose Address is Unknown, the Alleged Father of B.L.G. and J.A.G, both minor children, And Notice To: Any Interested Persons or Unknown Father Take notice that a petition for adoption of the minor children, B.L.G. and J.A.G., who were both born to Ambry Robinson on or about the 24th day of said Court. Please be advised that if you intend to contest thisten response with the attorney for the petitioner named below and with the Probate Court of Elmore County, 100 East Commerce Street, Wetumpka, Alabama 36092 as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) days after the last day this notice is published.

Petitioners: Antone Robinson, Jr.

Attorney for Petitioner: Aaron E. Bern Anderson, Williams & Farrow, LLC 7515 Halcyon Pointe Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 John Thornton Judge of Probate Elmore County, Alabama Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 10, 17, 24 and 31, 2022 A2022-017

PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having being made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage dated March 5, 2007 executed by Lisa Hudgins Harris, an unmarried woman, in fa-

vor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. solely as nominee for Homecomings Financial, LLC ( f/k/a Homecomings Financial Network, Inc.), said Mortgage being recorded March 13, 2007, in RLPY Book 2007, Page 16517, in the OfElmore County, Alabama; assigned to NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing by instrument recorded in RLPY Book 2020, page 66908, in the of Elmore County, Alabama. Said default continues and notice is hereby given that the undersigned, NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash at the main entrance to the County Courthouse, Elmore County, Alabama on 07/07/2022, having been postponed to 08/18/2022, further postponed to 09/29/2022 during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 2, Block A, according to the Plat of Grand Oaks Plat No. 1, as the same appears of reof Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in the Plat Book 12, at page 78 For informational purposes only, the property address is: 4746 Camp Grandview Road, Millbrook, AL 36054. Any property address provided is not part of the legal description of the property sold herein and in the event of any discrepancy, the legal description referenced herein shall control.

THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS-IS, WHEREANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by mortgage as well as the expenses of foreclosure, including a reasonable attorney’s fees and other purposes set out in said mortgage.

NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing Paul K. Lavelle, Esq. Attorney for Mortgagee Spina, & Lavelle, P.C. One Perimeter Park SouthSuite 400N Birmingham, Alabama 35243 (205) 298-1800 30-FC-22-01130

Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 24, 2022 30-FC-22-01130

PUBLIC NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FILING OF PETITION FOR ADOPTION IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA AT CASE NUMBER: A2022-023 TO: BILLY ROYCE GALLOWAY, WHOSE ADDRESS AND WHEREABOUTS ARE UNKNOWN, THE FATHER OF A.E.G. AND NOTICE TO ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTY Take notice that a Petition for-a written response with the Proof this notice. The Probate Court consider such Petition without A2022-023

PUBLIC NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE TO ANY AND ALL PERSONS CLAIMING TO BE A DEPENDENT OF TERRENCE M. IVEY, DECEASED Any and all persons claiming to be a dependent of Terrence

p Marquise Ivey, deceased, are hereby given notice of a pending action in the Circuit Court of Elmore County, Alabama, CV2022-900076.00. If you claim to be a dependent of Terrence Marquise Ivey, or if you have information on the identity of any person claiming to be a dependent of Terrence Marquise Ivey, deceased, you are requested to respond on or before August 25, 2022, to the undersigned Guardian Ad Litem, Jeffrey J. Courtney, Esq., at the below address. Failure to make such contact will likely result in a waiver of any and all claims you may have pursuant to the said Elmore County Circuit Court case:

Jeffrey J. Courtney, Esq. Courtney & Mann, LLP. PO Box 100 1881 Holtville Rd. Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 567-2545

jeffcourtney@courtneymann. net

Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 3, 10, 17 and 24, 2022 CV-2022-900076.00

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM JACK ARMSTRONG, DECEASED CASE NO: 2022-244

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of WILLIAM JACK ARMSTRONG, deceased, having been granted to FLORA NELL ARMSTRONG on August, 10 , 2022 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

FLORA NELL ARMSTRONG PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM JACK ARMSTRONG, 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: Aug. 17, 24 and 31, 2022 EST/ARMSTRONG, W.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT EARL CRUCE, DECEASED CASE NO: 2022-243 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of ROBERT EARL CRUCE, deceased, having been granted to MALYNDA KELLY KAMM on August, 10, 2022 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

MALYNDA KELLY KAMM PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT EARL CRUCE, 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: Aug. 17, 24 and 31, 2022 EST/CRUCE, R.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN TYLER GIVENS, DECEASED CASE NO: 2022-233 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JOHN TYLER GIVENS, deceased, having been granted to MARY FINCH on August 3, 2022 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

MARY FINCH PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN TYLER GIVENS, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal

Representative: RODERICK B. PERDUE ATTORNEY AT LAW 2033 HOLTVILLE ROAD WETUMPKA. ALABAMA 36092 334-567-7373

Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 10, 17 and 24, 2022 EST/GIVENS J.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SHIRLEY B. LEE, DECEASED CASE NO. 2022-239 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices

OF ESTATE

Representative

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.

JOHN M. LEE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF SHIRLEY B. LEE, 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: Aug. 17, 24 and 31, 2022

EST/LEE, S.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF REUBEN EARNEST REDD, DECEASED CASE NO: 2022-238 JOHN THORNTON PROBATE JUDGE Elmore County, AL NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of REUBEN EARNEST REDD, deceased, having been granted to SHARON A. REDD on August 9, 20 2022 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

SHARON A. REDD ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF REUBEN EARNEST REDD, DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: REGINA EDWARDS LAW OFFICES OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011

Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 17, 24 and 31, 2022 EST/REDD, R.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF FRANK BURGE MITCHELL, JR., DECEASED. CASE NO. 2022-221 NOTICE OF FILING OF WILL FOR PROBATE

Public Notices

TO: THE UNKNOWN NEXTOF-KIN OF FRANK BURGE MITCHELL, JR., DECEASED, WHOSE IDENTITY AND WHEREABOUTS ARE UNKNOWN, AND TO: ANY OTHER UNKNOWN INTERESTED PARTY YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 14TH day of July, 2022, a certain paper in writing purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of FRANK BURGE MITCHELL, JR., deCourt of Elmore County, Alabama by RODERICK B. PERDUE, Petitioner, requesting that such Last Will and Testament be admitted to Probate and Record and that the Petitioner be named as Personal Representative of such Estate. This notice of Filing of Will for Probate is given to you as a next-of-kin of FRANK BURGE MITCHELL, JR.

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

JOHN THORNTON JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Name and Address of Petitioner: RODERICK B. PERDUE ATTORNEY AT LAW 2033 HOLTVILLE ROAD WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-567-7373

Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 10, 17 and 24, 2022 EST/MITCHELL, F.

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE The Elmore County Commission will hold a Public Hearing to consider a redistricting plan at the Monday, September 12, 2022, regularly scheduled County Commission meeting.

The meeting will begin at 5pm at the historic downtown County Courthouse, 100 E Commerce Street, Wetumpka, AL. A map of the redistricting plan is available for viewing at the Elmore Counat the address listed herein) and on the county website located at www.elmoreco.org. Should you have questions or comments on the redistricting plan, you may contact the Elmore County Beyer at: wrbechd@elmoreco.org.

Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 17, 24, 31 and Sept. 7, 2022 HEARING 9/12

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM WAYNE SMITH, DECEASED CASE NO: 2021-151 NOTICE TO ANY INTERESTED PERSON, PARTY AND/OR ENTITY A Petition for Final Settlement of the Estate of WILLIAM WAYNE SMITH, Deceased, has been BRIANNA R. SMITH, Personal a hearing to be held on the 27th JOHN THORNTON JUDGE OF PROBATE

GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. PO BOX 638

EST/SMITH, W. PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice: Roger Hayne Ward and Erika Ward, whose whereabouts are unknown, take notice that a Petition for Termination of Parental Rights hasbama (JU-2013-209.06). You to the Petition by the court date be granted.

JU-2013-206.06

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LONNIE WRIGHT, SR, DECEASED CASE NO. 2022-218 NOTICE OF FILING OF WILL FOR PROBATE

TO: TINA WRIGHT, WHOSE WHEREABOUTS ARE UNKNOWN A NEXT OF KIN OF LONNIE WRIGHT, SR.; AND TO: ANY OTHER UNKNOWN NEXT OF KIN OF LONNIE WRIGHT, SR., DECEASED YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 7TH day of July 2022, a certain paper in writing purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of LONNIE WRIGHT, SR., deceased, of Elmore County, Alabama by requesting that such Last Will and Testament be admitted tosonal Representative of such Estate. This notice of Filing of as a next-of-kin of LONNIE WRIGHT, SR. Unless an objection to admissuch Last Will and Testament is submitted by you in writing on or before September 23, 2022 the Court will proceed with consid-ther notice to you.

JOHN THORNTON ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Name and Address of Attorney NANCY M. KIRBY NANCY KIRBY LAW OFFICE 1809 STATION DRIVE, SUITE C

nancy@nancykirbylaw.com Wetumpka Herald: Aug. 3, 10, 17 and 24, 2022 EST/WRIGHT, L. PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice to Contractors Federal Aid Project No. STPMN-2620(258) ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA Sealed bids will be received by the Director of Transportation

Public Notices

Public Notices

Transportation Director

STPMN-2620(258)

and are set forth in the adver-

OWNER’s Project No.____ ENGINEER’s Project No. ____ Project Filter

ELMORE COUNTY’S LOZADA DOESN’T

LET HEIGHT DEFINE HER PLAY

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Elmore County senior Coranda Lozada may only stand at 5-foot3, but the star hitter plays as tall as anyone across the state of Alabama.

Lozada, who is entering her senior campaign for the Lady Panthers, is one of the top hitters in the area. She’s proved that over the last two seasons, and she really put herself on the map as a junior last season.

She recorded a team-high 2 12 kills while also adding 92 digs on defense as she was named to the All-County team.

“She’s such a hard worker,” Elmore County coach Kim Moncrief said. “To be 5-foot-3 and do what she does just proves that. She’s always looking to get better. She doesn’t believe she is too short to do anything. She gets up and she

does the job and its kills and blocks because of her vertical.”

Lozada hasn’t always been a dominant offensive player.

When she was in middle school, Lozada played as a libero and really only ever played defense. But when she wanted to start playing offense, she realized how important height was to that part of the game.

So she decided to work on her vertical jump.

She started lifting weights at a high level. She would hit the gym every chance she got. When she wasn’t lifting weights, she would wear ankle weights when she was just walking around. She did everything in her power to ensure she could jump higher than anyone else on the court.

Now she can.

“With how short I am, it’s a lot harder for me than other people,” Lozada said. “I have to work harder

than other hitters and people I play with. But I lift weights a lot, and I work on my vertical all the time. That helps, and my teammates help by giving me a lot of confidence at the net.”

While she excels at the net, her defense isn’t lacking by any means.

She used to play libero, so she knows what she has to do. She hasn’t played as much defense the last two years because the team has had some defensive specialists on the back row, but she will see increased reps on defense this year.

Her role isn’t changing much. She will still be one of the team’s leading hitters, but Moncrief knows she will likely have to be play back row at the college level if she chooses to go that route.

“She’s always been a fantastic defensive player,” Moncrief said. “We want to show that she can do that and compete with the best. Last

year, we tried to rest her more for the front row. But when people start keying in on her hitting this year, her defensive play is what is going to keep her out there on the court.”

As she plays more defense, Lozada will see her confidence grow at the position. She has all the confidence in the world hitting the ball on offense, but she just hasn’t played enough defense in recent years to have that same level of confidence.

But while she may not be as confident, defense is her favorite position on the court. She enjoys playing o the back row, and she would love to play all the way around the court even with Elmore County already having talented defensive players on the back row.

Lozada and the Lady Panthers open the season on Aug. 25 at home against Stanhope Elmore and Montgomery Academy.

JAKE ARTHUR | THE OBSERVER

Elmore County’s Coranda Lozada attacks the ball during the AHSAA South Super Regional Volleyball Tournament last season.