The Wetumpka Herald 12-28-22

Water in short supply in southern Tallapoosa County, eastern Elmore County

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Holtville High School basketball coach arrested

again.”

By Cliff Williams Staff Writer

The winter weather has caused havoc on multiple water suppliers in the area, primarily in southern Tallapoosa County, eastern Elmore County and portions of Macon County.

While demand is high and leaks due to burst pipes abound,

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.

one system is completely out of water in its tanks resorting to bottled water. Other water authorities are cautious suggesting limiting usage.

“Unfortunately, Wall Street Water Authority (WSWA) has completely run out of water on our water system,” it said on its Facebook page. “Our tanks are completely empty and we are at

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.

WILSON

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

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

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

the mercy of the treatment plant to supply us water once their current system gets restored. We are hopeful [Monday] that we can start pumping water again but this will be a several day restoration process for WSWA to have water at a normal operating level. We are sorry for this inconvenience and will do our best to have everyone water

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

Franklin said investigators with the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office have the alleged victim’s phone. Authorities collected Wilson’s phone as well.

WSWA currently has bottled water at its office for its customers to have drinking water. WSWA services parts of Reeltown, East Tallassee and parts of Macon County.

Loachapoka Water Authority but it normally gets water from WSWA.

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

Notasulga has multiple leaks due to breaks caused by the weather. The small town is trying to fill its tanks from the

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

Tallassee Mayor Sarah Hill said Monday the city’s water filter plant has been manned and operating at full capacity for several days — even over the holiday. But even with that

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

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

No meteor for New Years in Wetumpka Publix coming to Wetumpka

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The country’s largest employee-owned company, Publix, will have a store in Wetumpka soon.

Montgomery developer The Trotman Company who has worked with Publix in several of its developments across the Southeast.

has been in the planning stages for the last two and half years and that officials with the City of Wetumpka have been great to work with bringing Publix to town.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

It’s a tradition started by Wetumpka’s Jack DeVenney more than three decades ago — a New Year’s celebration.

It was DeVenney who also started the meteor drop in Wetumpka in the early 2000s but the meteor drop will not happen this year but the celebration lives on.

Police continue investigation, man no longer suspected

By Jake Arthur Chief Videographer

“We are just doing fireworks this year,” City of Wetumpka’s Valencia Johnson said. “There are not going to be any extra activities for New Years like in years past. There will be no meteor drop or festival.”

Johnson said the city decided with all the events happening downtown the last couple of months, the city needed to take a small break from a larger celebration.

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

Police were dispatched to the parking lot around 10:45 p.m. for a “shots fired” call. Once there, they found Centell Winston, 42 of Tallassee, dead of a gunshot wound in the driver seat of his vehicle.

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

DeVenney’s meteor drop started with the Elmore County Technical Center with a “meteor” traveling 300 feet down a zipline over 14 seconds.

This year’s celebration will be at Goldstar Park with music over the already installed sound system. A countdown will begin at 11:59 p.m. Dec. 31 with fireworks at midnight.

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

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

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

Benton didn’t want to speculate on the

“Publix is coming to Wetumpka,” Charlie Trotman with The Trotman Company said. “We are hoping to start construction in late February, early March. From there it takes anywhere from 10 to 11 months to build.”

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.

The 48,387 square foot grocery store will be located on the northwest corner of the intersection of U.S. Highway 231 and Ft. Toulouse Road adjacent to the U.S. Post Office in Wetumpka. But there will be more to the development.

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,

“We have 7,000 feet of shops unattached to the Publix out front on an out parcel,” Trotman said. “There are also two other out parcels.”

As principal of Holtville High School, Futral has transformed

Trotman said the development

“They have helped us in a lot of ways,” Trotman said. “We couldn’t ask for anything better from the city. City officials have been very supportive of this development. Mayor Willis is excited to have Publix in Wetumpka. We are excited to bring Publix to Wetumpka.”

Publix was founded in 1930 by George W. Jenkins in Winter Haven, Florida. Publix is one of the 10 largest supermarket chains in the U.S. employing more than 240,000 people in 1,322 stores, 86 in Alabama. In 2021 Publix’s retail sales totaled $48 billion.

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

The nearest Publixs to Wetumpka are in Montgomery and Prattville. A Publix is set to open in March in Sylacauga.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

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

PRINCIPAL

See

The Wetumpka City Council will likely decide at its next meeting for the rezoning of property on the southwest side of Wetumpka.

The 15 acres owned by John Stanley is currently zoned for rural holding and the rezoning of the property along Highway 14 near

, Page A3

FUTURAL

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE HERALD

Construction of Publix in Wetumpka will soon start at the intersection of U.S. Highway 231 and Ft. Toulouse Road.

“We couldn’t ask for anything better from the city. City officials have been very supportive of this development.

Mayor Willis is excited to have Publix in Wetumpka. We are excited to bring Publix to Wetumpka.”

— Charlie Trotman

TEXTILE MILLS ASBESTOS CLAIMS

Police Reports

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

DEC. 17

• Domestic violence was reported on Barnes Court.

• Harassment was reported on Cotton Street.

• Domestic violence was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

DEC. 16

• Harassing communications was reported on Austin Street.

DEC. 15

• Domestic violence was reported on Jeanette Barrett Industrial Boulevard.

• Forgery and theft was reported on Wilson Street.

TALLASSEE POLICE DEPARTMENT

DEC. 21

• An assault was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• Reckless driving was reported on Peachwood Drive.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A white male was arrested during a traffic stop on Central Boulevard.

• An animal complaint was reported on North Ann Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Barnett Boulevard.

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

• An animal complaint was re-

ported on Upper River Road.

• Animal control was requested on Barnett Boulevard.

DEC. 20

• A white female was arrested during a traffic stop on Grant Street.

• Animal control was requested on Hillcrest Street.

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

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Softball Way.

DEC. 19

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• An intoxicated driver was reported on First Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Freeman Avenue.

• A Black male was arrested during a suspicious person call on Gilmer Avenue.

• A motor vehicle accident with injuries was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Thompson Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A white female was arrested during a harassing communications call on First Avenue.

• A white female was arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A white female and male were arrested on Barnett Boulevard.

• A motor vehicle accident was reported on Burt Mill Road.

• A domestic incident was reported on Redden Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Gilmer Avenue.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Eubanks Street.

DEC. 18

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• Trespassing was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• Gunshots were reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• An animal complaint was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• Assistance was given to the Tallassee Fire Department on Hunters Ridge.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Barnett Boulevard.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Gilmer Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on North Ann Avenue.

DEC. 17

• Suspicious activity was reported on Central Boulevard.

• A noise complaint was reported on South Tallassee Drive.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Katie Lane.

• A noise complaint was reported on Jordan Avenue.

• A noise complaint was reported on Second Avenue. Dec. 16

• Criminal mischief was reported on Magnolia Street.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported Ashurt Bar Road.

• Suspicious activity was reported on Notasulga Road.

• Menacing was reported on Lower Tuskegee Road.

• Assistance was given to the Tallassee Fire Department on South Tallassee Drive.

• Harassment was reported on Gilmer Avenue.

• An abandoned vehicle was reported on Roberts Street.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Sims Avenue.

• A suspicious person was reported on Sims Avenue.

• A suspicious person was reported on Sims Avenue.

DEC. 15

• A suspicious person was reported on Mott Lane.

• Reckless driving was reported on Notasulga Road.

• Assistance was given to a citizen on Hillcrest Street.

• A welfare check was conducted on Second Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Riverside Avenue.

• A welfare check was conducted on Gilmer Avenue.

• A domestic dispute was reported on Ashurst Avenue.

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

• Animal control was requested on Kent Road.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported on Ashurst Avenue.

• Animal control was requested on Alber Drive.

REZONING

Continued from A1

Gossum Switch Road would allow businesses and multifamily dwellings. The rezoning request is being asked for by Stanley who has worked with the City of Wetumpka on previous projects.

“He is the hero,” Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis said at a recent council meeting. “He

WATER

Continued from A1

it has limited who it can currently serve to those residents in Tallassee.

“Due to circumstances beyond our control, there is currently a shortage of available treated water in the City of Tallassee,” Hill said. “At this time, there are no plans to cut off water service to citizens of Tallassee. However, service to wholesale buyers has been temporarily shut off in order to help rebuild the City’s water supply.”

Hill said the city is working to identify what it can do to minimize further impact. The Tallassee mayor said Tallassee citizens shouldn’t overreact by filling bathtubs and other large receptacles.

“This will further strain

is the guy who put together the property where our Sports Complex is. He helped us buy that and get ownership of that property.”

The second reading and likely vote on the matter will come at the Wetumpka City Council’s Jan. 2 meeting.

The council approved the legal advertising of the zoning change if the change is approved.

the system,” Hill said.

Hill asked Tallassee citizens to minimize water usage as much as possible and with the warming weather to turn off all faucets and spigots. She also said everyone should look at their water meters to determine if they have a leak. If everything in a residence is off, the meter should not be showing usage.

Hill also suggested no outdoor fires to burn boxes, leaves or other refuse to reduce the possibility of fires.

“We have been proactive and made sure all of the tankers at the fire department are full and ready if needed,” Hill said.

The Town of Eclectic said it along with several of the Elmore County Water systems is experi-

In other action, the Wetumpka City Council:

• Approved minutes of the Dec. 5 council meeting.

• Tabled to the next meeting a contract with Prestige Lawn and Fencing for the company to create four murals at the splash pad to work out contract language.

The next scheduled meeting of the Wetumpka City Council is 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 2.

encing loss of water pressure and supply in some areas.

“At this time [Monday], Eclectic has repaired the major leaks that we are aware of on our system and should have those resolved by the end of today,” the town said on its Facebook page.

“But due to problems of the surrounding water authorities, the capacity of water and pressure will be limited for days to come. Thank you for your patience and understanding and please know that our staff has worked tirelessly the past few days and will continue to do so, even in these extreme temperatures.”

Central Elmore Water and Sewer Authority (CEW&SA) said Monday on its Facebook page its water supply is not in a

state of emergency.

“We are in a state of caution,” CEW&SA said. “At this time, CEW&SA residential customers should not worry about there being loss of drinking water due to no water in the tanks. We are monitoring wholesale customers.”

Walnut Hill Water Authority said Monday it has crews out trying to locate possible leaks

“Walnut Hill Water Authority (WHWA) tank levels are dropping,” WHWA said. “Please check your side of the water meter for leaks. Spread the word to your neighbors. Some of our neighboring systems are out of water.”

As of Tuesday morning, water was being pumped to Wall Street Water Authority again.

CLIFF WILLIAMS THE HERALD

Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis presides over a recent Wetumpka City Council meeting.

‘Stranger Things’

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Thanks to his father, John McDaniel knows his way around cars and motorcycles.

Since a child McDaniel has been tinkering with what some would call junkyard finds. But those finds and McDaniel are finding their way into roles in shows like “Stranger Things” and movies such as “Shaft.”

While McDaniel’s appearances on the scene are from the last six years, his tinkering goes back decades.

“This goes all the way back to the 70s when my dad decided to stop being a chemical engineer and start being a mechanical engineer when I was in middle school,” McDaniel said. “He is a brilliant guy and engineer. He bought a machine shop.”

McDaniel and childhood friend Ron Johnson would work in McDaniel’s father’s shop. Johnson would become a machinist and McDaniel would go into IT. But something besides electronics rubbed off on McDaniel.

“Growing up with him is why I am mechanically inclined even though most of my career was in tech and computers,” McDaniel said. ‘He made sure when it was time for me to get a car, that I bought one that wasn’t new and when it broke, I was the one who fixed it.”

Johnson was there too, taking apart cars and putting them back together.

McDaniel remembers learning to ride a motorcycle and wanted his son to have one too.

“I thought I could fix up a motorcycle,” McDaniel said. “There is not a whole lot to them. I called a friend of my sisters. He hooked me up with a 78 Honda CM 400. I restored it, got it running, taught my son how to ride a motorcycle and learned a little about painting and bodywork.

I’m not a good bodywork person but on a motorcycle all you really got is the gas tank. I was tickled that I did that on my own, really. It was before I got into the movies.”

McDaniel was living west of Atlanta near where he grew up and his sister was into theater and the movie scene in Atlanta. She had a 1980s Volkswagen bus being used in “Stranger Things” when she helped connect McDaniel and the motorcycle with casting of the hit TV show.

“She got me started into it as far as the movies,” McDaniel said.

“She made a phone call and next thing I know I’m on ‘Stranger Things’ with the motorcycle — the rest of season two filming.”

McDaniel would explore getting his motorcycle into other shows and movies but soon discovered there wasn’t much need for motorcycles. He also discovered he had an itch to stay in the business. McDaniel would search for another vehicle with hopes of getting in front of the camera again. It was October 2017 and McDaniel found a 1980s Toyota Celica on Craigslist. McDainel and Johnson went to work.

“It ran poorly,” McDaniel said. “Somebody had put a Holley four-barrel carburetor on it and it had closed off half of it.”

It would be selected to be in the background of a scene of “Shaft,” starring Samuel Jackson.

“It was an all night shoot,” McDaniel said. “It was so cool. There were like five of us parked on the street and we had to stay in our cars. This scene we weren’t driving, but every 15 minutes we had to move out of the lane for the MARTA bus. They rented a whole city block for the night to do this scene in the movie.

“I watched Samuel Jackson do this scene

all night long. I was just right across the street.”

Now McDaniel has a Triumph TR7 and a Dodge D-50.

The TR7 was on McDaniel’s radar for more than a year. The original asking price was too much but McDaniel left an offer to call when the seller was ready. The call came a year later.

“I’m in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean on a Mother’s Day Cruise with my mom,” McDaniel said. “The owner called and sold it to me. I bought it while on the cruise ship.”

But the wait was worth it.

“Dad had a TR8, it has the same body style,” McDaniel said. “My brother drove it in high school. I thought my father might like it.”

Johnson has helped along the way with rebuilding transmissions, suspensions, brakes and even some bodywork and pinstriping.

The collection now resides in Tallassee where McDaniel moved about 18 months ago from Georgia. The pair even built a shop to do their work.

There are two early 2000s Mercedes SLKs, a 2007 Cadalic and the next project is Johnson’s 1982 Volkswagen diesel Rabbit pickup that Johnson bought from his sister.

“I just put a new head on it,” Johnson said. “Just got it running for the first time in 13 years. I remember driving it. It gets 52 miles to the gallon. I’m going to drive it daily.”

But it’s not just the cars that Johnson and McDaniel get in front of the camera. They serve as extras too. McDaniel especially recalled extra roles in “Just Mercy” and “Richard Jewell” directed by Clint Eastwood.

“If you know in advance you can prepare for these things,” McDaniel said. “I went and got my haircut —

Hit TV show has connections to Tallassee

90s cop style. I wanted to be in this movie, not necessarily for the car but to be able to say I worked alongside Clint Eastwood and say ‘Hey, I was in a Clint Eastwood movie.’”

McDaniel was one of the law enforcement officers in the film.

The COVID-19 pandemic slowed McDaniel’s appearances in front of the camera but said things are scaling back up in production.

“About a month ago I did something,” McDaniel said. “I guess I will be doing movies and shows starting in early spring. It is pseudo retirement for me.”

SUBMITTED THE HERALD

John McDaniel’s Toyota Celcia was used in Season Four of “Stranger Things.”

SUBMITTED | THE HERALD

Vehicles owned by Tallassee’s John McDaniel have been used in movies and series such as “Stranger Things.”

SUBMITTED | THE HERALD John McDaniel’s 1978 Honda CM400 (motorcycle) started his journey into vehicles in movies and series.

Boone, Chairman Tippy Hunter, General Manager Kaitlin Fleming, Managing Editor

Opinions

Mission

The

“Our

TheWetumpkaHerald.com

Richard Shelby is coming home

Our iconic Senior United States Senator, Richard Shelby, will walk out of the Senate chambers in Washington, D.C. next week and come home to retirement in Tuscaloosa. History will reveal Senator Shelby as Alabama’s greatest U.S. Senator, especially when it comes to bringing home the bacon to the Heart of Dixie. To say Shelby is the greatest is saying a mouthful, because we have had some great ones. Shelby will rest along with the likes of John Bankhead, John Sparkman, Lister Hill, and Howell Heflin. He has served longer in the Senate than any Alabamian in state history – 36 years. He served eight years in Congress before beginning his senate tenure in 1986.

Many of you have perceived, and correctly so, that I admire and appreciate the accomplishments of Senator Shelby. A good many of you will be glad to see me stop writing such glowing things about him. Over the years many of you have accused me of actually being his press secretary. My favorite restaurant is the historic Bright Star in Bessemer. A good many Tuscaloosans, especially older ones, Shelby’s contemporaries and friends and neighbors drive up to eat at the Bright Star. Invariably, they will ask me to come over to their table to visit. They always say, “you sure do like Richard Shelby.”

Many of them are familiar with the fact that we are also friends. We have, indeed, been political friends and confidantes for close to four decades. This does not take away from the fact that in my humble opinion, he is Alabama’s greatest Senator. The facts speak for themselves.

In Washington, Shelby

STEVE FLOWERS Columnist

is considered royalty with omnipotent power. He is treated like a king. Shelby has served in the Senate alongside eight different presidents. He has been more powerful than the last three. He has controlled the federal purse strings. Therefore, national political pundits know the political golden rule, ‘those that have the gold make the rules. Presidents, congressional leaders, and especially powerful lobbyists, treat Shelby with deference akin to royalty. When he enters a room, people stare and stand up. This is especially true when he enters any famous Washington restaurant. The maître de has assigned him the best table. When he enters the fine dining establishment, every head turns to see which million dollar a year lobbyist has been bestowed the honor of dining and visiting with the king, Richard Shelby. Other lobbyists will reserve a table next to him to simply be able to say they sat next to him. However, when Shelby comes home to Tuscaloosa next month to the home he and his wife Annette have shared in the Druid City for over 50 years, his peers and neighbors will just call him Dick Shelby. “A setting sun sets off very little heat,” and a “prophet is not recognized in his own country,” “familiarity breeds contempt,” and “Alabama is just a big front porch,” all of these admonitions will ring true for ole Shelby. However, I do not think he will mind. Even though he has lived his life as a public person

– eight years in the state senate, eight years in congress and 36 years in the U.S. Senate – he is a private person and really enjoys his time with Annette. He will very much enjoy his anonymity. This coming home to rest in obscurity has played out throughout the years with our Washington giants. Old timers in Jackson County say that the legendary, powerful, Tennessee Valley Congressman, Bob Jones, in his retirement would go into a restaurant to eat in Scottsboro by himself and nobody would hardly know him.

I was friends with Senator Howell Heflin, who we all called “Judge.” After 18 years in the Senate, Judge came home to the Quad Cities. He would ask me to come up to visit with him and talk politics, which I gladly did. We would go to breakfast or early lunch at a downtown restaurant, which doubled as a coffee club gathering place in Tuscumbia. We would walk in, and they would nod, and he would speak, but they would not make a fuss over the former, powerful, U.S. Senator. In fact, I am not sure some of them even knew who he was. Tuscaloosa is a bigger place than Scottsboro or Tuscumbia, so Shelby will be private.

In the meantime, Alabamians will soon begin to realize what immense power Shelby had in Washington.

See you 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.

Embrace freedom and democracy

As Argentina prevailed over France 3-3, winning the penalty kicks shootout 4-2, it’s a great time to point out that both countries have embraced political freedom, as have the two finalists in 2018, 2014, 2010, 2006, 2002, 1998, 1994, 1990, 1986, and 1982 (22 teams). In fact, you’d have to go back to Argentina’s 1978 win to find an authoritarian country that won the World Cup, despite attempts by unfree countries to prove their superiority in sports.

The

JOHN TURES Columnist

Democracies and autocratic regimes seem to have it in for each other. But clashes between both types of countries occur in areas other than war. Witness the kitchen debate between Richard Nixon and Nikita Khrushchev about economic prowess of the Soviets and Americans. Even today, China, the United States, Japan and the European Union vie for market share. There’s also the space race between the Cold War superpowers, which could emerge again in today’s environment between the United States, China and others.

Sports is merely another arena for supremacy between democracies and authoritarians, played out in Olympic Competitions, individual matches like Joe Louis and Max Schmeling, and even soccer. Argentina attempted to use the 1978 World Cup to cement the power status of their

military junta which had taken power two years earlier. Russia similarly sought prestige, in hosting the 2018 World Cup event, and Beijing became the first site of the Summer and Winter Olympics. Berlin’s 1936 Olympics were used as a showcase by Nazi Germany, something they tried to replicate in soccer in 1942, though the FIFA games were canceled by World War II. Qatar’s hosting of this year’s World Cup was a controversial case as well.

But winning the event is another matter. Here democracies have prevailed, not only in the FIFA World Cup over the last 11 tournaments, but they’ve also dominated the teams that actually make the tournament, and the round of 16.

To test this, my students and I looked at data from Freedom House for 2022, an international organization that examines how well regimes respect civil liberties and political rights. Free countries receive a score of 2 in our analysis, while those coded “not free” receive a score of zero. Those which are partly free get a measure of “1.”

In 2022, four countries at the World Cup in Qatar received a score of zero, while five countries were coded as partly free. The other 23 were fully free countries. Those who made it to the World Cup averaged a freedom score of 1.59, while those who lost had a freedom score of 1.044, a significant difference according to a t-test.

Want to make the FIFA final 16, and get to the “knockout stage?” Freedom also helps.

Fourteen of the 16 finalists were free countries, with only partly free Morocco and Senegal getting that far, another statistically significant finding (finalists averaged a freedom score of 1.86, compared to the average freedom score of 1.31 for those who lost at the group stage).

Why do authoritarian countries perform so poorly these days in sports? Stricter drug testing prevents the success some undemocratic countries had in the past at international competition. Star athletes in authoritarian regimes has to watch their back, lest their popularity incur the wrath of dictators, as was the case of Turkey.

John A. Tures is a professor of political science at LaGrange College in LaGrange, Georgia. His views are his own. He can be reached at jtures@lagrange. edu. His Twitter account is JohnTures2.

Kenneth

happy New

Year’s Day is the first holiday celebrated each year in the United States. People welcome in the New Year with friends and family by following traditions and making resolutions to improve their health and lifestyles. Many people stay up until 12:01 am to ring in the New Year. January 1 was first declared the first day of the year during the Roman Empire with the creation of the Julian calendar. Many traditions, such as resolutions, surround New Year’s. A resolution is a decision you make to improve yourself. The most common New Year’s resolution is to lose weight. Others may resolve to eat healthier, keep their home or office cleaner, or to do more charitable acts. Other New Year’s traditions include eating special foods for good luck, e.g., black-eyed peas and collard greens in America and doughnuts in the Netherlands. Parades are also a common New Year’s tradition. The first Tournament of Roses Parade occurred in California in 1886 to celebrate the orange crops. The Rose Bowl was added to this tradition in 1902 and is still a popular New Year’s celebration. The famous Waterford Crystal Ball drop in New York’s Times Square is televised each year on New Year’s Eve and is watched by people around the World. A smaller, but similar, festivity is the Peach Drop in Atlanta, Georgia.

chinese new

Chinese New Year is Tuesday, January 22, 2022. In the Chinese zodiac calendar, each year is assigned an animal that represents that year. There are 12 total animal assignments. This year, 2023, is the year of the Rabbit! The Rabbit is the fourth animal in the cycle.

Reconditioning instead of replacing

(Isaiah 54:6).

It’s taken awhile

computer, but I’m beginning

like

and more. But not at first. My old one was almost 10 years old, but quite serviceable until the case cracked. It lived because of my friends, the geeks.

I’ve always tried to be especially nice to two groups: the cleaning crew and the geeks. The former because who are you going to call when heat or air conditioning isn’t working, or you made a mess that needs cleaning up?

That’s not the only reason to be nice to these folks, but it’s good reason to speak to them and to give them a gift card at Christmas.

The other group is the geeks who know computers.

keyboard now feels just right to my fingers.

I think there is a spiritual application here about reconditioning vs. replacing.

MICHAEL BROOKS Columnist

Friendly computerists in our church have added memory and replaced the hard drive, a keyboard and numerous batteries; thus, the old laptop kept humming along. In fact, it still is, though now semi-retired to a lesser workload at home.

But the new computer is smaller and faster, and the

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 Gospel Project, Youth Bible Study and Adult Prayer Meeting. Regular office hours are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The heart of the gospel message is that humanity falls short and can’t simply be reconditioned. We try to do good things, and this itself is a good thing. It’s much better to try to be good than to try to be bad! But human goodness doesn’t earn merit with God. The ancient prophet Isaiah uttered a well-known line: “But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags . . . and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away,”

Church Briefs

EAST TALLASSEE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

ETUMC’s Rivers Edge Flea Market is now closed. The church will start a new project called Rivers Edge Food Pantry. ETUMC will provide canned food, water, dry beans and rice, blankets, and jackets. If you want to donate or help with the cause, call Joan Wood at 334312-4913.

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE EPIPHANY

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

The prophet used strong comparison in this pronouncement. “Filthy rags” can mean medical waste, such as bloody clothing. In other words, something really foul.

So, if our attempts to please God with good deeds falls short, what can we do? This is where the “newness” of the gospel comes into focus. The gospel declares that Christ, who had no sin, died for our sins, and God “inputs” his righteousness in us when we humbly trust in God’s mercy. We don’t “patch up” the old life, but trust God for something entirely new.

The late D. James Kennedy

tion, visit the church website at http:// epiphanytallassee.org/

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

First Presbyterian Church, located at 514 Central Blvd. will host a Veteran’s Day Celebration on Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. for all veterans and first responders and their family members.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

“We are OPEN and everyone is WELCOME! Come worship with us in 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

imagined God asking at the gates of heaven, “By what right do you come here?” A typical response is, “See what good things I did.” Kennedy reminded us the only acceptable reply is, “I have no right to be here other than I claim Christ as my savior.”

Augustus Toplady’s familiar hymn lyric affirms this gospel truth: “In my hand no price I bring, simply to thy cross I cling.”

“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.

Sunday evenings from 5-6:30 p.m. and Wednesday evenings from 6-7:15 p.m.; supper is included both days! For more information about our church or the programs we offer, visit our website: fumctallassee. com or call us: 334-283-2195. FUMC Tallassee - 1 Jordan Avenue.”

OUR LIFE’S JOURNEY

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

Wetumpka’s Eldridge dominates Indians Invitational

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Wetumpka eighth grader Juliana Eldridge cruised through the 2022 Wetumpka Indians Girls Invitational this week. Eldridge, the No. 1-ranked wrestler in the state of Alabama voted on by coaches, is the sister of Wetumpka’s first state champion Jade Eldridge.

Eldridge started her tournament off with the toughest matchup of the day, Arab’s

Herald Fans’ Choice Player of the Week: Julie Nekolna

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The votes are in, and this week’s Herald Fans’ Choice Player of the week is Holtville basketball player Julie Nekolna.

Nekolna, a foreign-exchange student at Holtville his season, earned 438 of the 782 total votes. There were only two nominees this week, and she beat Stanhope Elmore wrestler Connor Russo (344 votes) to claim her first Player of the Week honor.

Nekolna is the first Holtville basketball player to be named Player of the Week this season. She had a stellar week last week as she turned in two impressive performances on the hardwood.

She had arguably the best week of any player in the state of Alabama as she turned in two triple-double performances in wins for the Bulldogs. She recorded her first one with 23 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 blocks in a win against Thorsby.

Two games later, she did it with an in-county win. In a blowout win over Stanhope Elmore, Nekolna recorded 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 blocks.

The Holtville star senior has been a huge addition for the Bulldogs this year. Holtville has already claimed the single-season school record for wins in a season (13) and currently has a 13-2 record going into Christmas.

Nekolna is averaging 20.4 points, 10.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 3.1 blocks, and 2.5 steals per game this year.

DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

Cats? How about the Bulldogs instead?

There’s been a bunch of talk about cats in Elmore County lately.

I’m not going to comment on that whole mess of a situation. It’s a very sensitive subject right now. Instead, I’m going to stick to cringe jokes and sports and I’m going to talk about one of our area basketball teams.

So here goes my re-do of my lede. 3… 2… 1…

Cats? How about the Bulldogs instead?

The Holtville girls basketball team is currently in the midst of its best season in program history, and they deserve some recognition and to be talked about.

Holtville is in the middle of Christmas Break, and they have a 13-2 overall record so far this season. They started the year 12-0, and then lost two of three games down in a tournament at the beginning of the break.

To put into words how special their season already is, Holtville has already broken its single-season win record. The record, which they

Madilyn Rodgers. Rodgers is the No. 2-ranked wrestler in the state and is a senior this year. Eldridge was able to secure a takedown in the first period and led, 2-0, for most of the match.

After no points were scored in the second period, Eldridge held on to her two-point lead in third third. Rodgers was able to tally an escape early to cut the lead to 2-1, but

Wetumpka wrestling reigns supreme in Indians Invitational

By DALTON MIDDLETON Sports Editor

The Wetumpka Indians reigned supreme at their own wrestling tournament this week.

Out of 11 total teams and all five public county schools, Wetumpka claimed the top spot in the annual Indians Invitational with a team score of 164.5 points.

The Indians had five wrestlers finish in first place in their weight class, while two more reached the Final Four of their class.

The five champions for the Indians was Ramon Lozarda (120 pound weight class), Noah Smith (132), Chad Strickland (138), Christian Preston (220), and Willie Cox (285).

Lozada started things off in the 120 pound class by beating a former Elmore County teammate and then taking down a wrestler from Montgomery Catholic. In the championship, he faced Sam Tolomeo of Chiles (Florida) and won by decision, 8-1.

Smith also defeated a Florida wrestler in the finals, but ran through

opponents from Benjamin Russell and Pike Road before doing so. He defeated Jacob Johnston 10-6 in the championship.

Strickland had one of the toughest championship opponents. After defeating wrestlers from Elmore County and Tallassee, he faced off with Chiles’ Garrett Marschka, the Florida state champion in the 138 weight class.

He won, 7-2, to improve his already dominant senior campaign.

Preston was the first Indian to face a non-Floridian wrestler in the championship match. In the 220 weight class, he won 15-1 over Helena’s Owen Campbell.

Cox then, in the 285pound class, wrapped up the championship matches for the Indians with a close 6-5 win over Benjamin Russell’s Tymon Belyeu.

Tallassee’s wrestling team also turned in a fantastic performance at the Invitational. The Tigers finished No. 2 overall and had seven wrestlers finish in the top four in their class.

Two of them won their

weight class, as Rutland Phillips finished as the champion in the 106-pound weight class and Christian McCary won the 152pound weight class.

Phillips faced Pike Road’s Jack Posey in the championship match, and won handily, 15-8.

McCary pitched a shutout in his championship match and beat Benjamin Russell’s Ashton Clark, 8-0.

Stanhope Elmore did not make the cut for the Top 5 in team rankings, but the Mustangs had a good turnout. Four wrestlers made the Top 6 in their weight class, with one champion and one Top 3 finisher.

Connor Russo claimed the championship in the 170-pound weight class. He pinned both of his early opponents quickly in the first minute of each match, then faced Savon Spradley of Benjamin Russell in the championship. Spradley made it more of a match than the earlier opponents, but Russo ultimately pinned him as well in the second period.

This is the second-con-

secutive tournament that Russo has gone undefeated and not allowed a single point to be scored against him over the course of the tournament. He is currently undefeated this year.

For Stanhope Elmore, Kristian Seals finished third place in the 145-pound class while Cameron Hodge and Michael Berringer both finished sixth.

Elmore County had two wrestlers finish in the Top 4 in their weight class.

Christopher Eyerly finished in third place in the 285pound weight class after defeating Benjamin Russell’s Chresten Johnson in the third place match.

Clark Wood was the only other placement for the Panthers. In the 182pound weight class, Wood was defeated by Tallassee’s Caden Griffith, 11-1, in the third place match.

Holtville had only one varsity wrestler finish in the Top 4 in the tournament. Brady Goodwin finished runner-up in the 160pound weight class after losing, 11-0, to Benjamin Russell’s Jamarion Whetstone in the championship.

COURTESY PHOTO THE HERALD

Wetumpka wrestling coach Josh Highland with Wetumpka wrestler Julian Eldridge.

SUBMITTED THE HERALD

Holtville’s Julie Nekolna shoots a shot during a recent game.

DALTON MIDDLETON | THE HERALD

Wetumpka’s Chad Strickland attempts an escape against a Tallassee wrestler.

Police hope public can help identify burglary suspect

Report TPI Staff

The Montgomery Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect wanted for burglary.

At approximately 4 a.m. Tuesday an unknown subject entered a store on Vaughn Road in Montgomery.

“The subject made forced entry through the front door and stole tobacco products from inside before fleeing the scene,” CrimeStoppers said in a release. This suspect is wanted for Burglary 3rd degree.”

Wednesday morning

law enforcement and CrimeStoppers released a photograph of the suspect hoping someone can identify the person. Anyone with information regarding the identity of this suspect or his whereabouts is asked to call the police or CrimeStoppers using its 24-hour tip line at 215-STOP (7867) or 1-833-AL1-STOP or download the P3-tips app. If anyone gives a tip, they are asked to make sure they receive a tip ID and password in order to dialog with investigators in case there is a follow-up question. A tip may lead to a cash reward.

ELDRIDGE

Continued from B1

couldn’t score again.

She attempted a takedown on Eldridge, but was unsuccessful as Eldridge turned it around and scored her second takedown of the match to go up, 4-1, and end the match.

Eldridge’s next two matches were against fellow eighth graders. She faced off with Prattville’s Shauna Hunter and Central’s Tabitha James, and scored two quick pins over both of them to advance to the championship match.

She faced Auburn’s Erin Clarkson in the championship match and made quick work of her. After scoring two early points on a takedown, Eldridge finished the match with a cross-face cradle to pin Clarkson and win the championship match.

Eldridge was not the only female wrestler for Wetumpka in the tournament. Nellie Millergreen, a junior at Wetumpka who is wrestling in her first year, also participated on the day.

She faced Arab’s Rihanna Mariner and was defeated in the first round, but she refused to lose twice in a row. She won two matches in a row in the consolation bracket, pinning an opponent in the second round in the semifinals. She was defeated in the third place match but finished her first wrestling tournament as the No. 4 in her weight class.

BULLDOGS Continued from B1

set last season at 12 wins, was broken last week. So now they’re sitting at 13 wins and have half a season to go and extend that mark.

When I asked head coach Jason Franklin what was working this season after a game last week, his response was that the girls have figured out how to play at this speed.

“We have a lot of girls who started as seventh and eighth graders, and now they’re sophomores and juniors,” head coach Jason Franklin said. “They’ve played a lot of minutes.”

And to their credit this season, their season hasn’t just been spent bullying schools smaller than them. Seven of their 13 wins have come from school at least 4A or above.

They’ve played six games against Class 5A schools, and they’ve won four of those games. Their two losses came by a combined seven points to Gulf Shores and Hayden.

They’ve beaten a Class 6A team in Stanhope Elmore and a Class 7A team in Alma Bryant. The Bryant win was the one that broke the record.

When I think about the girls that Franklin said have been playing together since they were in junior high, it makes sense that they’re having this level of success. This group of girls is the same group that is doing well in all of Holtville’s girl’s sports. They had success in softball last season, and they’ve had success in volleyball.

There’s a core group of them, and they’re making waves.

In basketball, they saw success last year with that core. Let’s talk about a few of them.

They start with defense. And Holly Smith and Kaila Higgins spark the defense with a combined 6.1 steals per game together.

That translates to offense, where Holtville has spent a lot of time shooting 3-pointers. Both Smith and Higgins are 3-point shooters, but the team also has Ana Brown, who leads the team with 25 3-pointers this year. Brown has over three times as many made threes as she does regular twopoint baskets. Add in a few more girls such as Summer Hutcheson and that’s what Holtville’s team has been.

They’ve been good, but they were missing one piece. And this year, they’ve found that piece in foreign exchange student Julie Nekolna.

A lot of teams like to say they’re just missing one piece. If they had just one more girl or one more player, they’d be successful.

Holtville has it. Nekolna has dominated this season. She came in standing at 6-foot-3 and has fit in perfectly with the Holtville team. She’s exactly what they needed and she’s a big part of the 13-2 overall record.

As of right now, Nekolna is averaging 20.4 points, 10.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 3.1 blocks, and 2.7 steals per game. That stat line is out of this world, but that’s what Holtville needed to take the next step.

I’m personally excited to see what Holtville can do when they come out of the break. They still have Elmore County and Marbury in the area, so it’s no cake walk. Marbury looks really good this year. And they have the Elmore County tournament where they will face at least two county teams.

But they’ve already shown they can win by beating a team like Stanhope Elmore and other 5A/6A/7A teams. I don’t know how far they’ll make it this season. I’m not predicting a state championship or anything, but this team has the tools to possibly make some noise.

They have a 6-foot-3 star, some 3-point specialists, and their team is built around defense.

That’s a recipe for success.

I say all that to reiterate one simple point.

Holtville is a dang good team, and they deserve to be talked about this year.

SUBMITTED THE HERALD

Central Alabama CrimeStoppers released this graphic and photograph hoping the public can identify the suspect.

Staff

Tonight: Cooperate. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) This is a lovely day to entertain at home or to relax in the privacy of your own home. Interactions with family members will be loving and mutually supportive. Expect to be in contact with family members you haven’t heard from in a while.

Tonight: Get organized.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Because you’re in a good mood today, you are eager to enjoy the company of others, especially daily contacts. Reach out to siblings, relatives and neighbors, and tell them that you care. You’re in such good spirits, you will appreciate your daily surroundings. Tonight: Romance!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

Business and commerce are favored today. Possibly, something might look better than it is, so be careful. If shopping, you will be tempted to go overboard buying extravagant, beautiful things. Save your receipts just in case. Sometimes you do things in a big way!

Tonight: Cocoon.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Relations with others are good today! Don’t hesitate to reach out and contact others. They will be happy to hear from you. This is also an excellent day for teachers, lecturers and anyone who has to speak to the general public, because others will identify with your words. Tonight: Listen. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) If you have a chance, you will enjoy your privacy in a very peaceful, blissful way today. You might see solutions to old problems. Very likely, you are sensing that the year ahead will be a much better year for you. And this is the truth! Tonight: Maintain your possessions. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) It’s a lovely day to socialize! Enjoy the company of friends. Interact with clubs and groups, because relations with others will be supportive and uplifting.

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GENERAC

Public Notices

Street, San Jose, CA 95131; 1st Franklin Financial Corporation, PO Box 229, Saginaw, AL 35137; 1st Franklin Financial Corporation, PO Box 680951, Prattville, AL 36068; and Guardian Credit Union, Leonard Norman Math, PO Box 230759, Montgomery, AL 36123. For informational purposes only, the property address is: 3330 Trace Rd, Wetumpka, AL 36092. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. Five Thousand Dollars and no/100 ($5,000.00) must be time and place of the sale by the purchaser as a non-refundable deposit. The balance of the purchase price must be paid in cer-

LOGS Legal Group LLP, 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28216, 704-3338107. LOGS Legal Group LLP reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder, or to reschedule the sale, should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. PNC Bank, National Association, and its successors and assigns Mortgagee or Transferee LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 704-333-8107/18-015887

Attorneys for Mortgagee or Transferee

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 Jacqueline Salter And Jimmy R Salter , Wife And Husband, to Group Mortgage Associates dated March 14, 1996; said mortgage being recorded on March 25, 1996, in Book 171, Page 002557, as having beencorded on and recorded in Book of the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. Said Mortgage was last sold, assigned and transferred to Fifth Third Mortgage Company by assignment recorded in Deed Book 2013, Page 44563 in the of Elmore County, Alabama.

Public Notices

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

AUTOMOTIVE

Public Notices

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed to First Franklin A division of Nat City Bank of IN on May 31, 2005, by David L Grant and Fagale S. Grant, Husband and Wife, and recorded in BOOK RLPY 2005, PAGE 41169 and secured indebtedness having been transferred or assigned to PNC Bank, Nationinstrument recorded in BOOK RLPY 2005, PAGE 52786 and RLPY Book 2018, Page 47106

Group LLP, as counsel for the Mortgagee or Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in the said mortgage will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash in front of the main entrance of the Elmore County, Alabama, Courthouse in the City of Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on the October 11, 2022, during the legal hours of sale the following real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to wit: Begin at a 1/2 Rebar capped S.D. Martin, 11728 at a fence corner known as the Northwest corner of section 22, T19N, R19E, Elmore County, Alabama; thence North 80 Deg 58 Min 35 Sec East, along the North Line of the said section a distance of 799.48 Feet to a 1/2 Rebar capped Martin, Thence continue North 89 deg 58 min 34 sec East along the said North Boundary of said section a distance of 5.00 feet to a point in an oak tree on the South Right-of-way of Trace Road; thence along the said South right of way of said Road on a curve to the left said curve having a radius of 1458.56 feet and a chord of South 83 deg. 04 mn 17 Sec East 348.98 feet to 1/2 Rebar capped Martin; thence leaving said road south 58 deg 00 mn 20 sec West a distance of 851.58 feet to a 1/2 rebar capped martin; thence South 89 deg 19 mn 53 sec West a distance of 420.00 feet to a 1/2 rebar on the West line of said section 22; thence North 00 deg 40 min 05 sec west along the said west line of said section a distance of 222.74 feet to a 1/2 crimp to; thence continue along said west line of said Section North 00 deg 40 min 05 Sec West a distance of 329.26 feet to the point of beginning. Said parcel containing 10.00 acres more or less and lying in and being a portion of the NW 1/4 of the NW 1/2 of section 22, T19N, 8Ne, Elmore County, Alabama.

Notice of this foreclosure sale may also be provided to the following parties if applicable, who may have some interest in said property, in order that they might avail themselves of the opportunity to bid at said foreclosure sale: Internal Revenue Service and First Franklin Financial Corp. an Op. Sub. of MLB&T Co. FSB, 2150 North First

The Wetumpka Herald - Run ad: on August 31, 2022 and September 7, 2022 and September 14, 2022. The public sale provided for hereinabove was postponed on October 11, 2022, by public announcement being made at the main entrance of the Elmore County Courthouse, Wetumpka, Alabama, during the legal hours of sale. The foreclosure sale described hereinabove shall be held on the January 11, 2023, at the main entrance of the Elmore County Courthouse, Wetumpka, Alabama, during the legal hours of sale.

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022 199611

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 Brandi S Taylor An Unmarried Woman to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for GMFS, LLC, its successors and assigns dated April 13, 2017; said mortgage being recorded on April 14, 2017, in Book 2017, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. Said Mortgage was last sold, assigned and transferred to GMFS LLC by assignment recorded in Deed Book 2022, Page 6321

Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. The undersigned, GMFS LLC, 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 19th day of January, 2023 the following property, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 18, of Stoneridge Subdivision Plat No. 2, as shown on that certain of the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama in Plat Book 15, at Page 22. Said property is commonly known as 167 Stoneridge Drive, Tallassee, AL between 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 “as-is” 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. GMFS LLC 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. 22-02500AL www.foreclosurehotline.net Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 14, 21 and 28, 2022 22-02500AL

The undersigned, Fifth Third Bank, National Association, FKA Fifth Third Bank successor by merger to Fifth Third Mortgage Company, 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 20th day of January, 2023 the following property, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Commence at an iron pin located at the NW corner of the SE 1/4 of Section 9, Township 17 North, Range 17 East, Elmore County, Alabama; thence N 86 degrees 25’ 11” E 1818.83’ to an iron pin; thence S 03 degrees 48’ 52” E 890.14’ to an iron pin; thence S 03 degrees 55’ 38&” E 1364.30’ to an iron pin; thence S 86 degrees 20’ 24” W, 30.00’ to an iron pin and point of beginning for the herein described parcel of land; thence continue S 86 degrees 20’ 24” W 109.00’ to an iron pin; thence S 03 degrees 39’ 36” E 64.37’ to an iron pin; thence West 216.47’ to an iron pin located on the centerline of a creek; thence meandering Northwesterly along said centerline which generally follows the following six (6) courses: (1) N 32 degrees 47' 17” E 12.82’; (2) N 70 degrees 41’; 51”; W 56.02’; (3) N 06 degrees 4’ 58’; W 44.97’; (4) N 28 degrees 10’ 13” E 38.60’;; (5) N 23 degrees 39’ 52” W 59.74’; (6) N 18 degrees 01’ 31” W 10.63’ to a point; thence leaving said centerline N 86 degrees 04’ 22” E 373.58’ to an iron pin; thence S 03 degrees 55’ 38” E 127.49’ to the point of beginning. Containing 1.37 acres, more or less, and lying in and being a part of the SE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section 9, Township 17 North, Range 17 East, Elmore County, Alabama. Said property is commonly known as 3521 Boxwood Drive, Millbrook, AL between 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 “as-is” 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. FIFTH THIRD BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, FKA FIFTH THIRD BANK SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO FIFTH THIRD MORTGAGE COMPANY 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. 22-03546AL www.foreclosurehotline.net

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022, Jan. 4 and 11, 2023 22-03546AL

PUBLIC

NOTICE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE ELMORE COUNTY Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Barbara H Leib an unmarried woman and Michael Dudash, an unmarried man, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Genworth Financial Home Equity Access, Inc., its successors and assigns. on August 29, 2011, said mortgage recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, at

National Association, Not In Its Individual Capacity But Solely As Owner Trustee For VRMTG Asset Trust, as Mortgagee/ Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidfront of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Elmore County, during the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF ALABAMA, COUNTY OF ELMORE, AND IS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: LOT NUMBER 2 OF THE KINGSWOOD SUBDIVISION AS SHOWN BY THE HAYS, REGISTERED LAND SURVEYOR, DATED NOVEM-ED IN THE OFFICE OF THEMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA,dress for informational purposWILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, SUBENCUMBRANCES, AND EXTHE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THEERTY IS SITUATED. THIS WITHOUT WARRANTY OR

THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under cermay 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 funds made payable to Aldridge 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 cancellaAssociation, Not In Its Individual Capacity But Solely As Owner Trustee For VRMTG Asset Trust, Mortgagee/TransfereeRd. N.E., Suite 500 Atlanta, GA Transferee. Newspaper: The

ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECCOLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL -

203042

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF CIVIL ACTION

Keith Edward Myers, whose whereabouts is unknown, must answer Jerry M. Blevins’ Complaint for Defamation Per Se, Invasion of Privacy, and Wantonness, and request for an award of monetary damages in excess of $500,000, within thirty (30) days after the last publication of this notice, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in Case No. CV-2022-900191, Circuit Court of Elmore County, Alabama. Done this the 11th day of December, 2022.

/s/ Sibley G. Reynolds Circuit Judge Elmore County, Alabama

Jerry M. Blevins, Esq. 2800 Zelda Road, Suite 200-3 Montgomery, Alabama 36106 Plaintiff - Pro Se Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 21, 28, 2022, Jan. 4 and 11, 2023 CV-2022-900191

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 Anthea Caroline Brock Married Woman Joined By Her Husband Joseph T Crossley to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC, its successors and assigns dated April 16, 2020; said mortgage being recorded on April 22, 2020, in Book 2020, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. Said Mortgage was last sold, assigned and transferred to CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC by assignment recorded in Deed Book 2022, Page 70774 in the OfElmore County, Alabama. The undersigned, CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC, 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 2nd day of February, 2023 the following property, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 47, according to the Map of The Woodlands at Brensen Creek Plat No. 4, as recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 17 at Pages 53 and 54. Said property is commonly known as 368 Woodhaven Ln, Wetumpka, AL 36093. Should 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 superior to said Said property will be sold on an “as-is” basis without any representation, warranty or recourse against the above-named or the undersigned. The successful funds in the amount of the winning bid at the time and place of sale. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. The sale will be conducted subject is not prohibited under the U.S.status of the loan with the holder of the Mortgage. CROSSCOUNTRY MORTGAGE, LLC 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. 22-03980AL www.foreclosurehotline.net Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022, Jan. 4 and 11, 2023 22-03980AL

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 Douglas A Lovejoy An Unmarried Man to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Hope Federal Credit Union, its successors and assigns dated March 31, 2020; said mortgage being recorded on March 31, 2020, in Book 2020, Page of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. Said Mortgage was last sold, assigned and transferred to Hope Federal Credit Union by assignment recorded in Deed Book 2022, Page 66150 in the of Elmore County, Alabama. The undersigned, Hope Federal Credit Union, under and by virtue of the power of sale con-

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices

gy for Bay Equity LLC., on December 11, 2020, said mortgage reof Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in RLPY Book 2020 page 96359; the undersigned PennyMac Loan Services, LLC, as Mortgagee/Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on January 18, 2023, 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 24, according to the plat of Ashton Park Plat No. 1, as recorded in the ProAlabama in Plat Book 15, at Page 17.. Property street address for informational purposes: 325 Ashton Park , Millbrook, AL 36054.

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 at 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.

PennyMac Loan Services, LLC, (“Transferee”) Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., 2311 Highland Avenue South, Suite 330, Birmingham, AL 35205 www.tblaw.com TB File Number: 22-09245

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022, Jan. 4 and 11, 2023 22-09245

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOAN VENNETTA HARRIS, DECEASED CASE NO: 2022-361 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JOAN VENNETTA HARRIS, deceased, having been granted to BRENDA HARRIS LANGLEY on December, 16, 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.

BRENDA HARRIS LANGLEY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JOAN VENNETTA HARRIS, DECEASED

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

tpwlaw@protonmail.com

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 21, 28, 2022 and Jan. 4, 2023

EST/HARRIS, J.

PUBLIC NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE Case Nos. A-2022097

IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION OF M.A.L., MINOR, BY BRUCE D. VERMILYER, JR.

NOTICE TO: WILLIAM REEVES, Address Unknown. Please take notice that a petition for adoption in the above styled Court by the Petitioners named above and that the 30th day of January, 2023, at 10:30 o’clock a.m. has been set for a hearing on the same in the Probate Court in the City of Hayneville, Alabama. Please be advised that if you intend to contest this adoption, you must response within thirty (30) days hereof with counsel for said Petitioners, whose name and address are as shown below and with the Clerk of said Probate Court.

DONE the 19th day of Dec., 2022

Attorney for Petitioner: Douglas M. Vogel, Esq. Vogel Law Firm, LLC 41 Cambridge Court Wetumpka, AL 36093

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022, Jan. 4, 11 and 18, 2023 A-2022097

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE

SALE Default having being made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage dated January 29, 2021 executed by Patricia Noble Jackson, an unmarried person, in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. solely as nominee Trustmark National Bank, said Mortgage being recorded January 29, 2021, in RLPY Book of the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama; having later been assigned to Trustmark National Bank by instrument recorded in RLPY Book 2022, Page 72259, in the OfElmore County, Alabama. Said default continues and notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Trustmark National 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 at the main entrance to the County Courthouse, Elmore County, Alabama on 03/01/2023, during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 20, according to the Map of Cotton Lakes Plat No. 14, as said Map appears of record Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 30, at Page 22. This conveyance is made subject to any and all easements, restrictions, reservations, and rights-of-way which appear of record and affect the above-described property. For informational purposes only, the property address is: 160 Hideaway Lane, Wetumpka, AL 36092. Any property address provided is not part of the legal description of the property sold herein and in the event of any discrepancy, the legal description referenced herein shall control.

THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “ASIS, WHERE-IS” BASIS, SUBJECT TO ANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESS 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 mortgage as well as the expenses of foreclosure, including a reasonable attorney’s fees and other purposes set out in said mortgage.

Trustmark National Bank Paul K. Lavelle, Esq. Attorney for Mortgagee Spina, & Lavelle, P.C. One Perimeter Park South Suite 400N Birmingham, Alabama 35243 (205) 298-1800 40-FC-22-01359

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022, Jan 4 and 11, 2023 40-FC-22-01359

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF VIRGINIA VARNER HOLMES, DECEASED CASE NO: 2022-367

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of VIRGINIA VARNER HOLMES, deceased, having been granted to WILLIAM CONARD HOLMES on December 19, 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.

WILLIAM CONARD HOLMES PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF VIRGINIA VARNER HOLMES, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: D. JASON BRITT STONE, BRITT & WEBB, LLC ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS AT LAW 114 S MAIN ST P O BOX 967 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-517-6520

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022, Jan. 4 and 11, 2023 EST/HOLMES V.

PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE. Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Illya D. Bogan and Vicki Bogan, husband and wife, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., solely as nominee for First Liberty Financial Group LLC, on January 14, 2008, said mortthe Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in RLPY Book 2008 Page 7456 and

Public Notices

g

Page 27628; the undersigned MidFirst Bank, as Mortgagee/ Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on February 16, 2023, 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 11, Pine Acres, as the same is reof Probate of Elmore County, Alabama in Plat Book 5 at Page 18.. Property street address for informational purposes: 2761 Pine Acres Street , Millbrook, AL 36054. 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. MidFirst Bank, (“Transferee”) Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., 2311 Highland Avenue South, Suite 330, Birmingham, AL 35205 www.tblaw.com TB File Number: 22-09321

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022, Jan. 4 and 11, 2023 22-09321

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS MICHAEL MCGOUGH, DECEASED CASE NO: 2022-365 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of THOMAS MICHAEL McGOUGH, deceased, having been granted to NANCY N. McGOUGH on December 9, 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.

NANCY N. McGOUGH ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS MICHAEL MCGOUGH, DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: D. JASON BRITT STONE, BRITT & WEBB, LLC ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS AT LAW 114 S MAIN ST PO BOX 967 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-517-6520

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 14, 21 and 28, 2022 EST/MCGOUGH, T.

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN L. GILMORE, JR., DECEASED CASE NO: 2022-374 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of JOHN L. GILMORE, JR., deceased, having been granted to LAURIE ROBITAILLE on December 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.

LAURIE ROBITAILLE ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN L. GILMORE, JR., DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: D. JASON BRITT STONE, BRITT & WEBB, LLC ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS AT LAW 114 S MAIN ST P O BOX 967 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-517-6520

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022, Jan. 4 and 11, 2023 EST/GILMORE, J.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having being made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage dated February 26, 2021 executed by Erica Sheree Johnson, an unmarried person, in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as a nominee for Trustmark National Bank, said Mortgage being recorded March 15, 2021, in RLPY Book 2021, the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama; having later been assigned to Trustmark National Bank by instrument recorded in RLPY Book 2022, the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. Said default continues and notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Trustmark National 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 at the main entrance to the County Courthouse, Elmore County, Alabama on 02/15/2023, during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 105, according to the Plat of Charleston Place Plat No. I, as same appears of record in the of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 15, at Page 75 and 76 For informational purposes only, the property address is: 28 Turtle Dr., Elmore, AL 36025. 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, WHEREIS” BASIS, SUBJECT TO ANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESS 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 mortgage as well as the expenses of foreclosure, including a reasonable attorney’s fees and other purposes set out in said mortgage.

Trustmark National Bank Paul K. Lavelle, Esq. Attorney for Mortgagee Spina, & Lavelle, P.C. One Perimeter Park SouthSuite 400N Birmingham, Alabama 35243 (205) 298-1800 40-FC-22-01351

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 21, 28, 2022, Jan. 4, 2023 40-FC-22-01351

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM GORDON GREGORY, DECEASED CASE NO. 2022-368 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to KIMBERLY KAY ADAMS as Personal Representative on the 15th day of December, 2022, by the Honorable John Thornton, Judge of Probate of said County in said State, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are required to present same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

KIMBERLY KAY ADAMS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM GORDON GREGORY, 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 334-514-1011

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 21, 28, 2022 and Jan. 4, 2023 EST/GREGORY, W.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jennifer Rushton 19 superior loop Milbrook alabama, 36054. 14x60 Tru home is going to be surrendered to TMHS due to abandonment. We took possession of this home on 9-18-2021 Jennifer Rushton has been nothis home from 9-28-21 to 11-

MHP (Mike Goldbaugh) Total of Wetumpka Herald: RUSHTON

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF INA A. HIGHTOWER, DECEASED CASE NO: 2022-366 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of INA A. HIGHTOWER, deceased, having been granted to CHARLES A. HIGHTOWER, SR. on December 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.

CHARLES A. HIGHTOWER, SR. PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF INA A. HIGHTOWER, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: RONALD A. HOLTSFORD ATTORNEY AT LAW 7956 VAUGHN RD #124 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36116 334-220-3700

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022, Jan. 4 and 11, 2023

EST/HIGHTOWER I.

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ANN WHITE PARSONS, DECEASED CASE NO. 2022-282 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration with Will Annexed over the Estate of ANN WHITE PARSONS, deceased, having been granted to DONALD WHITE PARSONS, on the 16TH day of December, 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.

DONALD WHITE PARSONS, ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF ANN WHITE PARSONS

Regina B. Edwards, Esq. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, P.C. Attorney for Administrator 109 E. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 514-1011

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 21, 28, 2022 and Jan. 4, 2023 EST/PARSONS, A.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA JUVENILE COURT IN THE MATTER OF: NOVEMBER RAYNE WATERS, Minor Child. JU-2022-000166.01

MOTION FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION COMES NOW, the Petitioner, Brianna Linder by and through counsel of record, and moves this Honorable Court, pursuant to Rule 4.3 of the Alabama Rules of Civil Procedure, for an Order directing service of process to be made upon the Natural Mother, Ashley Carin Ketchum, by publication on the grounds that the Natural Mother’s whereabouts are unknowntached hereto. Respectfully submitted, this the 22nd day of December, 2022

Respectfully Submitted, K. Nicole Clark Attorney for Petitioner P.O. Box 681796 Prattville, Alabama 36068 Phone: (224)245-3297 knicole.clark@outlook.com Wetupmka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022, Jan. 4, 11 and 18, 2022 JU-2022-000166.01

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell for cash, at an ONLINE public auction on Thursday January the 12th, 2022, at 11:00am AT STORAGETREASURES.COM.

Please note: THIS AUCTION IS NOT IN PERSON. PLEASE DO NOT SHOW UP TO OUR PHYSICAL LOCATION. ALL AUCTION PARTICIPANTS MUST SIGN UP AND BID ONLINE.

Southeast Storage 8416 US-231 Wetumpka, AL 36092 3079: Carolyn Franklin. 68 Carp Dr. Wetumpka, Al 36092 -Contents: T.V, dresser, lamp, bed frame, rocking chair 2107: Avalon Rocawich. 400 Capital Circle S.E Ste 18-176 Tallahassee, Fl 32301 -Contents: paintings, tools, totes, furniture, shelves, suitcases Totten. 352

Wetumpka Herald: Dec. 28, 2022 STORAGE SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Sealed proposals will be received by the Alabama Department of Corrections Headquarters c/o the Engineering at 222 Tarwater Street, Wetumpka, AL at 10:00 AM Local Time on THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2023; at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read for:

p

Public Notices

SITE WORK / ENABLING WORKS SANITARY SEWER SERVICE PACKAGE FOR THE NEW MEN’S CORRECTIONAL FACILITY FOR THE ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA (State Funds) GMC Project No. CMGM21-0151(4)

The Work of the project includes, but is not limited to, a sanitary sewer concrete lift station and vault, dual mechanical screen assembly with concrete channels, electrical building, electrical, standby generator and related appurtenances; as the Drawings; coordination and supervision of the entire project; and all related work, as indicated in the Bid and Contract Documents.

A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to Alabama Department of Corrections in an amount of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000, must accompany the bidder’;s proposal. Performance and statutory Labor and Material Payment Bonds, insurance in compliance with requirements,will be required at the signing of the Contract. may be examined at the of-

Ashley.Morris@gmcnetwork. comwater Drive, Wetumpka, Al-

Bid Documents may be obtained from the Engineer upon payment of a deposit of Twenty dollars ($20.00) for a one-time sharing access or One Hundred-Fifty dollars ($150.00) are encouraged to use the digifor printed sets only issued by the Engineer to each general contract bidder

documents in good and reusgeneral contractors, and sets for subcontractors and dealers, may be obtained with the same deposit, which will be refunded as above, less cost of printing, reproduction, handling and distribution, which is estimated to be the same as the deposit amount. Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Engineer or copies thereof. All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by licensed under the Provision and must show such evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considThe bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying their current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered; Bidder must also include their current license number on reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waiveer’s judgment, the best interestsdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for a A

MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE

10:00 AM THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2023, for the purpose of reviewing the project and answering Bidder’s questions. Attendance at the PreBid Conference is Mandatory for all General Contractor Bidders intending to submit a Proposal, and is highly recomThis project is being bid EXCLUDING TAXES, and requires the Contractor comply with the which was signed into law onemption with the Alabama Dewill handle administration of shall account for the tax savingstractor Bidders and separateturers are indicated in the Bid and Contract Documents.

Tallassee man killed in Christmas Eve accident

Staff Report TPI Staff

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is investigating an accident that took the life of Jordan F. Brown, 19, of Tallassee.

ALEA said in a release Brown was fatally injured when the 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe he was driving left the roadway in a single vehicle accident at approximately 9 p.m. Christmas Eve and struck a tree.

“Brown was not using a seat belt at the time of the crash and was pronounced deceased at the

Gas prices continue to decline going into 2023

By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia reporter

Ringing in the new year might be a little cheaper for the gas tank than last year.

According to a press release, the national average for gas was $3.25 at the beginning of January 2022. Coming to the end of this year, GasBuddy predicted the national average was $2.98 for Christmas day.

For holiday traveling, the predicted gas prices drop the lowest it ha s in the past 18 months.

Plus, it is roughly $2 less than the peak price of $5.02 reported in June 2022, and as the year ends, 26 states have reported gas prices below $3 a gallon.

According to GasBuddy’s chart,

national gas prices have managed a steady decline since early October.

“As 2022 draws to a close, we’ve seen gas prices cut nearly in half in some areas compared to this earlier this year — a well needed break from the sky high prices we faced just six months ago,” Head of Petroleum Analysis Patrick De Haan at Gas Buddy said. “Finally, things are starting to feel a bit more normal with gas prices far more affordable. Americans are saving around $25 per fill-up compared to prices this summer.”

It’s not only nationally that gas prices are trending down. According to AAA, Alabama’s average gas price was $3.01 a year ago. As of Dec. 23, the state average was $2.78, and the average for Tallapoosa

scene,” ALEA said. “The crash occurred on East Fleahop Road, approximately three miles south of Eclectic.”

Nothing further is available as Troopers with ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate.

With national gas price averages provided by GasBuddy, the prediction is gas prices will continue to decrease for the first of 2023 year.

County was $2.83. Meanwhile, the highest recorded price in Alabama for 2022 was $4.63 on June 14. De Hann said while going into 2023 is looking good, there are still some challenges that may cause an increase in prices again in the spring.

Should there be an increase in prices, the U.S. Department of Energy has some tips on how to be most effective with one’s fuel. The first tip is to not speed and avoid aggressive driving. Plus, the

use of cruise control can help the engine run more efficiently for long trips.

However, there’s more to it than driving habits, keeping up with car maintenance can also be beneficial with fuel efficiency, such as keeping tires inflated, cleaning the air filters and routine oil changes.

Finishing out the year, De Hann advises drivers to keep “expectations in check” going into 2023 but also to enjoy the low gas prices well they are here.

ABIGAIL MURPHY THE OBSERVER