The Cleburne News - 01/16/14

Serving Cleburne County since 1906 Several students from Rachel Hulsey’s studio performed at the Nutcracker.

Send your announcements to: mpointer@cleburnenews.com Deadline is Monday at 5 p.m.

75 CENTS

news@cleburnenews.com

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Mayor asks for animal control board members LAURA CAMPER

news@cleburnenews.com

Misty Pointer

Keith Yancy, the city’s street department supervisor, shows how full the Heflin’s recycling trailer has gotten since the Calhoun County recycling center turned them away in November.

Recycling problems LAURA CAMPER

news@cleburnenews.com

H

eflin’s growing recycling program came to a screeching halt in November when the city tried to turn its recycling trailer in to the Calhoun County Recycling Center on Bynum Leatherwood Road and was turned away.

Keith Yancy, street supervisor for the city of Heflin, said he had to bring the recyclable paper, cans and plastic the city had collected over a three-week period back and it has been sitting in the yard near his office since then.

At the City Council meeting Tuesday night, two months after being turned away, Mayor Rudy Rooks said the city could look

into taking its mounting collection of recyclables to Waste Management, but the materials would all probably have to be sorted.

The city has had a recycling program for at least five years, Yancy said. It began with Southwire donating two small community recycling bins, Yancy said. The city would empty the bins and bring a truck load over to the recycling center where the extension office would sort and recycle the material.

Then last summer, the extension office offered 15-foot recycling trailers to the city that included bins for paper, cans and plastic.

Mayor Rudy Rooks said the city put out two of the trailers – one at the Heflin’s McIntyre Park and one at City Hall.

With the new trailers in place, Yancy said area residents threw themselves into recy-

cling and the program began to grow. The city was taking a full trailer over to the recycling center and swapping it for an empty one about every three weeks, he said.

But after being turned away, Rooks said the city contacted the extension office and was told the program was being restructured. Rooks said he is unsure what to do.

“Seems like they brought us to the dance and they’ve kind of left us in the corner,” Rooks said.

Rooks said the city has never had to pay to be part of the program, but has always counted on Calhoun County to take the items it collected. He’s wondering if the city needs to find some other partner with to continue n See Recycle page 10

Mayor Rudy Rooks tasked the Heflin City Council Tuesday night with finding members for a board created a few years ago in an ordinance that set up animal control in the city.

The city has been getting overloaded with animals and needs to have some policies in place to know how to deal with the onslaught, said Heflin City Clerk Shane Smith.

“We are getting puppies, puppies, puppies,” Smith said. “Sixteen puppies came in on the day it was 6 degrees. We had four come in yesterday and it’s just a constant call for us to come pick up puppies.”

The city is not equipped to house animals for days, said Heflin Police Chief A. J. Benefield.

It has a deal with Calhoun County to take animals to the shelter there, but the city can only take so many animals a month before incurring more charges, Benefield said.

Smith said that if a board were in place, the members could bring some policy ideas to the council to let city staff know what to do when people call about strays.

“It’s something we all need to think about getting done as soon as possible,” Smith said.

The board could be made up of people who are animal owners and animal lovers, Smith added.

In other business the council: — Appointed Jim Bennett, owner of Bennett Farms Pumpkin Patch, to a spot on the Heflin Industrial Development Board to replace board member Max Payne, who asked to step down.

— Heard that a new bridge on Bells Mill Road off of Alan See Board page 7

Former Cleburne teacher pleads guilty to charges of sex with student LAURA CAMPER

news@cleburnenews.com

Bronson Shay Ward, a former Cleburne County teacher accused of having sex with two students, Monday pleaded guilty to three of the five charges against him.

Ward, a 33-year-old White Plains resident, was facing four charges in Calhoun County and one charge in Cleburne County of sex or deviant sex by a school employee with a student under the age of 19. The Calhoun County charges involved two students and the charge in Cleburne County involved one student.

According to court documents, Ward pleaded guilty at the Calhoun County Courthouse to two of the Calhoun County charges and the Cleburne County charge, all involving the same student.

Ward pleaded guilty to the charges without having a plea agreement with the state, said Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Weems, who is prosecuting the case.

“He’s thrown himself on the mercy of the court,” Weems said.

Attempts to reach Ward’s attorney William Broome on Tuesday were unsuccessful.

According to court documents, Ward could be sentenced to a minimum of two

For news stories call Laura at 256.463.2872

years and up to 20 years in state prison for each of the three charges. He also could be fined up to $30,000 for each charge, the documents state.

The two Calhoun County charges involving the other student could still go to trial, Weems said.

She said the three charges that Ward pleaded guilty to are now closed and she will prepare for the sentencing hearing, scheduled for Feb. 28 at 9 a.m. in Calhoun County Circuit Court.

Heflin Police Chief A. J. Benefield said the other two charges were heard Tuesday by the Calhoun County Grand Jury. He should know by Jan. 21 if the grand jury

INDEX: Opinion/Editorial . . . . . . 3 Church Sponsor . . . . . . . 5 Sports . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 4

Heflin Highlights. . . . . . 6 Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

+ Matthew 22:37 Don’t wait till there is a problem with your tank

JDS JDS

CALL Joey Sprayberry

Septic & Services

Pumping • Installation • Repairs • Grading & Clearing • Storm Shelters Licensed • Bonded • Insured Serving Alabama & Georgia

AL# (256) 419-1105 • GA # (770) 574-3648

indicted Ward, Benefield said.

Weems said the plea was unusual and happened quickly.

“I found out yesterday,” Weems said.

“The plea was set yesterday morning for 3 p.m.”

With his guilty plea, Ward is now considered a sex offender, Weems said. When he is released from jail he will have to register as a sex offender where he lives and under Alabama law he will no longer be eligible to teach in a school, she said.

Staff Writer Laura Camper 256-4632872. On Twitter @LCamper_Star.

To subscribe

256-463-2872 P.O. Box 6, Heflin, AL 36264 FAX: 256-463-7127

NOTICE

The annual meeting for the Heflin Arts Council will be held on Thursday, January 23 at 6:30 p.m., at the Arts Center on MLK Drive.

This meeting is open to anyone in Cleburne County and surrounding areas interested in becoming a member. This organization plans and hosts activity for all ages in many areas of the arts including: painting, drama, continuing education, music and literary pursuits.

Please join us for this important meeting.

386 Ross Street • Heflin, AL 36264

256.463.2224

+

2 • The Cleburne News, Thursday, January 16, 2014

Heflin Highlights Qualifying Statements

Warren Sarrell, Carol Bennett Sarrell, Tom Sarrell, and Judge Glea Sarrell.

by: Suzanne Payne

Sarrell qualifies for District Judge "It has been an honor and privilege to serve the citizens of Cleburne County as your District Judge. Carol, Warren, Tom, and I humbly ask for your support as I seek re-election. I hope you will give me the opportunity to build on the strong foundation laid from my previous years of service as the court system continues to face many new challenges."

Glea Sarell

Jan. 16-Jeff Adams, Marc Riddle, Keisha Turner, Kenneth Ryan Morgan and Nicole Allen. Jan.17-Libby Altman, Bryan Herren, Kacee Norton, Andrea Burgess and Robin Morris. Jan.18-Steven Hunt, Katy Payne, Austin Turner, Jason Hamm, Aleia Austin, Doris Harris, Cherry Johnson and Tony Bryant.

Jan.19-Anna Laura White, Richard Smith, Matt Turner and Haley Humphries. Jan.20-Tony Lambert, Marie Taylor, Hailey Nolen and Sierra Nolen.

Jan.21-Lisa Smith, Jana Butterworth, Donald Jackson, Eddie Byars, Rebecca Pettis and Noah Gaines.

Jan.22-Alexandra Casey, Cindy Beam, Linda Moore, Josh Smith, Susan Walker, Kelly Coggin, Sharon Kennedy and Jennifer Cobb.

Mayfield qualifies for coroner My Name is Gary Mayfield, and I am announcing my candidacy for Cleburne County Coroner in the June 2014 Republican Primary.

My dedication to serving my community began at age 18, when I was allowed to join Ranburne Fire and Rescue Squad. Sincere gratitude goes to the members who allowed me to be part of the group. I credit this Mayfield group in instilling into me a sense of community service that has shaped my life and formed a commitment to serving the public. Under accelerated college placement, I was granted State EMT licenses in 1980 after studies at Southern Union College, all while still attending Ranburne High school. My professional career focused around my medical background. I received my degree in Respiratory Therapy in 1988 and was granted Nation-

al Licensure from the NBRC and licensures from Alabama and Georgia. I continued my community service with Abernathy Fire Department as my wife Gina, and I raised our three children Tiffany Mayfield Fuller, Spencer Mayfield and Bradley Mayfield. After seeing an increase in arson cases in and around the area in the 90s, I attended The Alabama Fire College where I earned a Fire Investigation Certificate and was licensed by the State of Alabama as a Certified Fire Investigator. On September 11, 2001, life as we once knew changed as our nation saw terror from abroad. In responce to this I attend The Advanced Regional Responce Training Center at the University of South Alabama in Mobile for certificate of complication for training in disaster preparation. I see public service not just as a job but as a calling- time that is given not for the money but for it's need. I believe this calling to those who serve is a gift from God. I once again ask to join and ask the people of Cleburne County to allow me to serve as their Coroner. To learn more please visit www.VoteMayfield.com Sincerely J. Gary Mayfield

Two charged with dumping tires in national forest LAURA CAMPER

news@cleburnenews.com

As a result of tips from local residents, two men were cited for allegedly dumping tires illegally in the Talladega National Forest Shoal Creek District in December, officials announced this week.

Jimmy Pinson, 18, of Eastaboga and John Martinez, 19, of Oxford, each face fines of up to $5,000 and six months in prison for allegedly dumping tires in the park. The two have already cleaned up the dump site, which held about 100 tires, said Karen McKenzie of the Forest Service, Shoal Creek District ranger.

Pinson and Martinez are scheduled to appear in federal court in Birmingham on March 28 before Judge

John England.

Although dumping in the park is common, McKenzie said, Pinson and Martinez are in the minority as many illegal dumpers are not caught.

“It’s very unusual, unfortunately,” McKenzie said.

But she thinks the citations will become more common. The Shoal Creek District had been without a law enforcement officer until about 18 months ago when Officer Scott Roper was hired, McKenzie said.

Roper spent his first nine months on the job at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Academy, but is now working at the park, she said.

McKenzie often receives tips about poaching or dumping from area residents or visitors to the park; now, there is an offi-

cer to check them out, she said.

“I don’t understand the thinking behind dumping in the National Forest,” McKenzie said.

The forest is a beautiful, recreational asset and the dump sites create hazards for visitors and wildlife, damage vegetation and pollute streams, she said.

Dumping is common not only in Talladega National Forest but in the other national forests in the state as well, said Tammy Freeman Truett, public affairs officer for National Forests in Alabama. But as in Talladega, catching the dumpers is rare.

“This is the first time this fiscal year that an illegal dumping case was solved,” Truett said.

In fact, illegal dumping is a problem in many rural areas, officials say. Brian

Pirritano, environmental enforcement officer for Calhoun County, said criminal littering is always a problem.

In calendar year 2013, Calhoun County discovered 82 illegal dumps and picked up 129.7 tons of litter from roads, highways and byways. Despite finding all that trash, the county didn’t issue any citations for criminal littering in 2013, he said.

Anyone with information about illegal dumping or any criminal activity in the National Forest can contact McKenzie at 256463-2272.

Audrey Pinson called to say her son Jimmy is 17, after the article was first printed.

Staff Writer Laura Camper 256-463-2872. On Twitter @LCamper_Star.

Free ready to work classes begins January 20 Free Ready to Work classes will be offered at the Chamber Job Station office beginning Jan. 20. Classes will be held Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8 a.m.-noon, for six to eight weeks.

Instructors from Gadsden State Community College will teach the classes.

Pre-registration is required. Class size is limited; currently 10

spaces are still available.

Alabama’s Ready to Work program provides a career pathway for adults with limited education and employment experience.

Ready to Work’s workplace environment provides trainees the entry level skills required for employment with most businesses and industries in Alabama.

The training curriculum is set to standards cited

Arrest report • Elizabeth Opal Holbrook, 33, Heflin - domestic violence first degree.

• Freddy Dean Williamson, 55, Heflin - attempt - distribute, poss. rec control. substance, use/posses drug para.

• Kaitlyn Marie Sanders, 21, Heflin - poss marijuana first degree, promoting prison contraband.

• Christopher Heath Hollis, 30, Heflin - DUI The people listed in this arrest report, whose names and charges are obtained from public records, are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

by business and industry employers throughout the state, and the skills cited in the U. S. Department of Labor’s Secretary’s Commission on Achieving Necessary Skills Reports.

To register for the Ready to Work program, visit the Chamber Job Station located in the Quintard Mall (near JC Penney) in Oxford, AL. The program is free but pre-reg-

istration is required.

For more information, call 256.770.7245.

CLEBURNE CHIROPRACTIC CENTER, P.C. DR. MARK J. HAMMOCK Chiropractor

WE ACCEPT MOST INSURANCE PLANS!

959 ROSS ST. HEFLIN, ALA.

463-5555 0R 1-800-239-5507

ALA/GA Roll-Offs CONTAINERS

18985 N. Hwy 431 • Wedowee, AL 36278

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

formerly Thackston and Sons Roll-Offs We serve the east Alabama and west Georgia areas hauling construction and demolition tree debris - concrete - remodeling If you have any container needs, please feel free to call.

We will be glad to service your container needs.

Cell:

Sad, But True

When you begin a sentence by saying, “Now don’t get angry when I tell you this…” you can almost be sure it will have the reverse effect!

256-610-2426

Office:

256-357-2377

Happy Birthday

Happy Anniversary

January 19-Guy and Dot Turner. If my sources are correct, the Turners will celebrate a REALLY BIG anniversary on this date. I call 69 years together monumental and worthy of recognition! WOW! Speaking of monumental, Roy and Gail Walker are also celebrating a milestone in their marriage. The Walkers are celebrating a half of a century as a couple! Yes, 50 years together and still happy.

Congratulations to both couples on their impressive anniversaries!

Sunshine List

Kenneth Lee, Sue Roach, Jeannie Smith, Linda Harris, Iris Kent, Ken Sanders, Jimmy Pentecost, Jacky Stovall, Rider Bearden, Sherry Brown, Kerry Smith, Merrill Hayes, Sara Noland, Jimmie Nell Vise, Sara McCormick and Junior Jenkins.

Something For Everyone

The first meeting of the Arts Council will be on January 23 at the Heflin Art Center on MLK Drive.

It will begin at 6:30 and everyone is invited. This group is very active and is involved in many positive community events. The divisions are: Music, Literary, Education, Drama and Hands-on Art. Come out and be a part of a great organization.

I Promise…Hopefully

One of my 11 readers stopped me at the grocery store the other day and asked me a question. She asked why I did not write about my New Year’s Resolution as I have done in the past. I explained that it seems that I am pretty good about MAKING resolutions, but I am really terrible about KEEPING them.

This year I did not make one. This year, I am setting a Possible Goal….just one. I added the word possible for obvious reasons! That goal is to reduce the clutter in a particular room in my house. (“Reduce the clutter” is my fancy way of saying “clean out”) It is the room like many of you have. It is a catchall room. It serves as an office, gift wrapping area, sewing space, clean clothes folding area and storage room. It is where we throw all the things we want out of the way when “company is coming” and then we just shut the door.. To be honest, it is a mess and it is driving me crazy. I vow to have it cleaned and organized by February…no, March…well for sure

by Easter.

Contact me with your news at rkpsop816@yahoo. com or mail to PO Box 924.

Diabetes Education January 28 Diabetes Education will be held January 28 at Heflin Methodist Church at 6:30 p.m. The topic will be Problem solving with Gary Wright, RPh, CDE. February 4 Diabetes Education will be held February 4 at Heflin Methodist Church at 6:30 p.m. The topic will be putting the pieces back together with Christopher Randolph, MD February 25 Diabetes Education will be held February 25 at Heflin Methodist Church at 6:30 p.m. The topic will be Living with diabetes with Louis Divalentin, MD

Wright Drug Company 960 Ross Street Heflin, AL 36264 (256) 463.2188

FLU SHOTS Available NOW Insurance covered: Medicare, Medicaid, TriCare, Federal Employee, BCBS (some plans)

THE CLEBURNE NEWS, Thursday, January 16, 2014 • 3

OPINION/EDITORIAL Legislature will put final touch on move to right

The 2014 legislative session began this week.

Speculation is that it will be short and may not last the full four months allotted.

The super majority Republican legislature will put their final touch on their four-year march to the right.

They have made an indelible conservative mark on state government in both fiscal and social measures.

The GOP House will emphasize financial incentives for job expansion. They are calling their agenda “Common Sense Conservative.” It will include a bill to raise the threshold where small businesses have to pay a monthly estimated income tax from $1,000 to $2,500.

They will also make filing state business taxes easier by creating an online tax filing system for all taxes.

Other bills in their conservative agenda will include a tax credit to encourage adoptions. They will address the issue of legislators exiting their terms early to lobby. They will tighten the current law that prohibits legislators from lobbying for two years after they leave office.

Speaking of those legislators who left early, their replacements are ready to go after winning special elections last year. Margie Wilcox won the seat of Jim Barton in Mobile. Dimitri Polizos will replace Jay Love in Montgomery. The Elmore County seat held by Barry Mask will be filled in a special election Republican runoff on January 28th.

Several lawmakers have announced they will not seek reelection this year. These open seats will create lively contests. Veteran lawmaker Richard Laird of Roanoke has served in the House since 1978. Laird was always an archconservative although he ran as a Democrat.

Arthur Payne of Trussville will end his 36-year tenure in the House. Arthur was a very conservative legislator

like Laird.

Another powerful and respected House member, Mary Sue Steve will not Flowers McClurkin, run for reelection.

Mary Sue served successfully for 16 years. Another conservative will Inside The Statehouse replace her. In fact, another conservative female will likely take McClurkin’s North Shelby seat.

DuWayne Bridges will step down from his Chambers County seat. Like Laird, Payne and McClurkin, DuWayne had a very conservative voting record.

Two freshman Republicans have chosen to serve only one term. State Senator Bryan Taylor of Prattville and Wes Long of Guntersville will not run for a second term.

Steve Clouse of Ozark will assume chairmanship of the House General Fund Budget Committee. Rep. Lesley Vance of Phenix City becomes chair of the House Financial Services Committee for the second time.

The AEA fired their first salvo of the campaign year.

They gave $150,000 to Gareth Moore to challenge Senator Jimmy Holley. It will be wasted PAC money.

They will not defeat the popular and effective veteran South Alabama State Senator.

Gov. Bentley has said that funding for prekindergarten programs and pay raises for teachers will be among his highest priorities during the legislative session.

Speaking of Gov. Bentley, he seems determined to get to the bottom of the Alabama State University issue. He spearheaded and called for a complete audit of the university over a year ago. His report has come back and he is on the warpath. He recently released a report on a forensic audit of finances on Alabama State University, which alleges that family and friends of at least three current or former university board members benefitted financially from their ties to the university.

This 36-page audit was done by Forensic Strategic Solutions of Birmingham. This audit revealed significant discrepancies. Indeed, the audit in its conclusion calls for a further investigation to allow a jury or trier of fact to investigate multiple acts of fraud, waste and abuse that may have occurred and may be occurring currently at ASU. The audit lists numerous conflicts of interest, financial waste, inappropriate relationships, payments to family and friends of university board members, intentional obscuring of inappropriate payments circumventing policies and procedures and ASU’s practice of charging administration fees to fund a reserve account for the Center for Leadership and Public Policy. However, Gov. Bentley’s ire seems focused on allegations of fiscal mismanagement of a Medicaid contract that ended up costing the university approximately $1 million. This saga is just beginning.

You have not heard the end of this story.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His column appears weekly in more than 70 Alabama newspapers. Steve served 16 years in the state legislature. He may be reached at www. steveflowers.us

Go is the message to music lovers

I’d like to encourage everyone to go to any performance of Jenny Wall, Dr. Bill Wall, and/or Jason Wright.

Their talents will transport listeners to musical heights.

Friends and I attended a concert at the Jacksonville Public Library on Thursday of last week. The three entertainers kept us spellbound.

Jenny, who is well known by most Calhoun Countians that love musical performances, is a soprano opera singer. Her husband, a local dentist, often accompanies her as a pianist. He has been a musician since childhood and has a background in performance. Jason Wright is a visual artist who said he developed his singing ability as a baritone only of late. He has made up for lost time.

Jenny studied music in Knoxville, Tenn., and performed there several years before deciding that the domestic life and community performances best suited her. She blessed Calhoun Countians by returning to her hometown where she and her husband reared their five children, all of whom are now adults.

As she sang, Jenny astonished us all as she first sang love songs from Phantom of the Opera. Her effervescent personality enhanced her performance. Several times during the concert, she would speak directly to us and tell us the background of the songs. Also, she danced and acted.

Jason’s voice quality is smooth and clear – perfectly

suited to versatility to opera and a wide variety of music. His pleasant and humorSherry ous personality suited Jenny’s lead in Kughn the dialogue.

The couple has sung together for a couple of years now, Sherry-Go-Round and it is evident that both are delighted to perform together. She said specifically that she is always happy to sing with him, and he echoed her sentiments.

Jason is a couple of generations younger than Jenny, but he seems mature beyond his years. Their age gap made no difference at all, even when the two sang the selections from Phantom. Two of those, especially, were the ones that deeply touched several of us in the audience.

The three also chose to perform songs from the musical Porgy and Bess. Jenny sang and acted out the role of Bess to “Summertime.” Jenny’s interpretation made the room in the library seem like a humid summer evening.

I could almost smell honeysuckles and hear fish jumping in a pond. Jason sang “I Got Plenty of Nothing,” a snappy song during which he danced.

Selections from the musical Godspell rounded out the concert. It was a musical I have never seen, but in which I am now interested. Bill’s virtuosity on the piano provided a spirited background for the singers.

Amazingly, this concert was free, thanks to the efforts of head librarian Barbara Rowell. Afterward, she said she had planned for months trying to schedule the three busy performers. Also, thanks to library employee Brenda Morgan for working the late shift.

Jenny, Bill, and Jason are Calhoun County treasures.

They delighted all of us, judging from the comments I heard after the performances. No one, it seemed, wanted the night to end; and the musicians stayed, answered questions, and visited with all of us.

One youngster among us was particularly impressed with Jason. After the concert, the young man spoke to him and gave Jason a brief demonstration of the excellent pitch of his singing voice.

So, if you get a chance to hear these musicians performing together again, pay money, travel, and give up your comfy recliner for at least one night. While at their concerts, you won’t think of your troubles. You won’t be aware of anything negative in the world. You will just go and be entertained.

Email Sherry at sherrykug@hotmail.com

Citizens are beginning to mistrust Washington, national media Chris Christie, Republican Governor of New Jersey, gave a press conference and answered questions from reporters for 111 minutes about a political scandal involving closing two of three lanes for three days on the George Washington Bridge connecting New Jersey and New York last September.

National “news” outlets have led with this story since the news conference. What’s the big deal? I doubt whether traffic problems from last September would have gone national if Christie had not been considered a leading GOP candidate for President in 2016, and more importantly a powerful opponent to Hillary Clinton, the much presumed Democratic nominee for President in 2016. National media elite (I’m uncomfortable labeling them journalists) make their livings uncovering or covering up political scandals.

The real “scandal” aspect of this incident broke last week when a newspaper published emails and text messages revealing Bridget Anne Kelly, Christie’s deputy chief of staff, ordered the lane closings in retaliation – some speculate – against some Democratic office-

Serving Cleburne County Since 1906

926 Ross Street • P.O. Box 67 • Heflin, AL 36264 (256) 463-2872 • (800) 408-2872 Fax (256) 463-7127 • news@cleburnenews.com Member National Newspaper Association

Publisher John Alred

Member Alabama Press Association

Sales Misty Pointer Editor Laura Camper Volume 121-3

The Cleburne News (USPS 117-420) is published every Thursday by Consolidated Publishing Co., and entered as periodicals at the Post Office in Anniston, Ala. 36202. Subscription rates: One Year in Cleburne County $22 One Year Elsewhere $36 Six Months in Cleburne County $13 Six Months Elsewhere $21

holders, including a mayor and some state senators, who opposed or antagonized Christie Daniel in various ways. Christie Gardner fired Kelly as soon as he said he learned of her involvement. He also dismissed his former campaign manager for My Thoughts being complicit in the incident. Also, two of Christie’s appointments to the Port Authority resigned last December, presumably due to their involvement in the lane closings. So far, at least four of Christie’s appointments have lost their jobs.

More interesting than the scandal itself is the way national media elite have thronged to cover this otherwise local story, especially considering their relative lack of coverage of true national and international scandals involving President Obama: IRS targeting political opponents; NSA gathering data from every American as well as leaders of other nations; Benghazi with false talking points blaming a YouTube video for a mythical spontaneous demonstration; Jihadist attack at Fort Hood labeled ‘workplace violence’ for political cover; and Fast & Furious gun-running operation to drug cartels in Mexico killing hundreds if not thousands of people on both sides of the border.

President Obama labeled these and other incidents “phony scandals,” and national media elite have dropped their coverage, choosing instead to cover New Jersey traffic jams.

Meanwhile, Robert Gates, recently retired Secretary of Defense under George W. Bush as well as Barack Obama, has released a book documenting his observations under these two leaders. Excerpts from the book so far have flattered neither Mr. Obama nor former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, both of whom Gates describes as operating more for personal political gains than for the good of the military or the nation. Gates’ book and comments on his book tour have come in third or fourth place in our national media behind Christie’s headline-leading scandalous traffic jam.

Headlines and lead stories coming from our national media elite are the real scandals. Americans, long disgusted with political shenanigans coming out of Washington, are beginning to recognize the same politically biased shenanigans coming out of national media outlets. What does that say about the future of America when citizens can neither trust Washington nor the national media?

Daniel L. Gardner is a syndicated columnist who lives in Starkville, MS. You may contact him at Daniel@ DanLGardner.com, or visit his website at http://www. danlgardner.com Feel free to interact with him on the Clarion-Ledger feature blog site blogs.clarionledger. com/dgardner/

Flowers running for PSC position PHILLIP RAWLS Associated Press MONTGOMERY — The race for Republican Terry Dunn’s position on the state’s utility regulatory board has become the most crowded on the statewide ballot for 2014, with political commentator Steve Flowers entering the field Wednesday.

Flowers, 62, of Troy said he’s joining the field of five Republican candidates for the Public Service Commission because he wants to keep utility rates low and he wants to develop harmony that hasn’t existed between Dunn and the other two commissioners. “He doesn’t seem to get along with the other commissioners,” Flowers said.

In addition to Dunn and Flowers, the field for the Republican primary June 3 includes former Greene County Commissioner Chris “Chip” Beeker, Alabama Minority GOP Chairman Phillip Brown of Birmingham, and production company owner Jonathan Barbee of Birmingham. Flowers said he believes the race has drawn more candidates than governor and every other statewide race because people see Dunn as vulnerable.

Flowers’ news conference was watched by several lobbyists

for businesses, business associations and organized labor.

George Clark, president of Manufacturer Alabama, said he plans to recommend that his board endorse Flowers because of his pro-business record.

Dunn had anticipated lots of opposition after calling for formal rate hearings last year for the state’s largest utilities. The other commissioners rejected his request and held informal hearings that produced some rate changes.

Dunn accused Flowers of not being on the side of utility customers. “Flowers stands with those who’ve spent nearly three decades making sure Alabama utilities’ profit margins remain the highest in the country. He knows that’s where the money is,” Dunn said Wednesday.

Flowers said he will stand out in the crowded field because “I come to this race as the only candidate with a proven pro-business, conservative record of public service.”

Flowers served in the Alabama House from 1982 to 1998 and made an unsuccessful run for the state Senate in 2002.

When he left politics, he became a political commentator on TV and a columnist for more than 70 newspapers, mostly weeklies. Flowers said his campaign already has more than $330,000.

4 • The Cleburne News, Thursday, January 16 2014

Gable challenges his team RIP DONOVAN

News Sports Correspondent

The Cleburne County girls will enter the Tri-County Shootout winners of two of their three most recent games. The Tigers edged Saks 36-35 in a road game on Jan. 9, fell to visiting Ranburne 48-43 Saturday then picked up a 46-16 Class 4A, Area 10 win at Lincoln Tuesday.

Cleburne County, the host school for this year’s Tri-County Shootout, is the No. 2 seed in the girls bracket and will play No. 3 Horseshoe Bend today at 6 p.m. The girls championship game is set for Friday at 6 p.m.

The girls consolation game will tip Friday at 3 p.m.

Tigers’ coach Todd Gable said the seeding process at last week’s seeding meeting was straightforward.

Seeds were determined exclusively by overall record. Ranburne took the No. 1 seed and Clay Central is No. 4.

Tuesday night’s win over Lincoln moved Cleburne County to 10-8 overall and 2-2 in area play. It was Cleburne County’s second win over the Golden Bears and guaranteed that the Tigers will finish no lower than third in the area during the regular season.

Gable said Wednesday morning he had been challenging his players to play a full 32 minutes of solid basketball all season long and they almost achieved that Tuesday night.

“Except for about four minutes in the third quarter, we played a complete game (Tuesday) night,” Gable said. “They got after it. Even though the score was out of the way, we were still diving on the floor for loose balls. That’s always a good thing to see. Everybody got to play (Tuesday) night.”

The eventual outcome was clear by halftime as Cleburne County led 29-6.

Senior Toni Epps outscored the entire Lincoln team with 19 points.

Against the Golden Bears’ 1-2-2 zone, Epps scored from the outside when left alone or attacked the basket with baseline drives when a defender moved closer to her. Epps was 6-for8 at the free throw line and had three steals and three rebounds.

Kaity Zeiders and Shawntavia Boyd each scored six points. Zeiders added seven rebounds, five off the offensive glass. Boyd had two steals, two assists and two rebounds. Kiara Akles recorded five points, five rebounds, three steals and two assists.

Alisa Norton had four points, three steals, three rebounds and two assists. Erykah Ware, Madison Jones and Bailey Norton each scored two points. Jones grabbed three rebounds. Ware had two assists and two rebounds. Bridget McClain also had two rebounds.

In the loss to Ranburne, Cleburne County fell behind 7-0 early and never led. Gable said his players got within one point of a tie in the fourth

quarter before Ranburne eased ahead again.

“We did a good job of spreading the floor. Early on, we couldn’t get a basket,” Gable noted. “The main difference in the game was them getting offensive re bounds and us not blocking out like we should have.”

Akles had 10 points and two rebounds. Zeiders and Norton each scored seven points. Zeiders had four rebounds and Norton two. Boyd, Epps and Ware tallied six points apiece. Boyd’s seven rebounds were high for the Tigers. Ware added four rebounds, three assists and two steals. Epps had two boards. Lauren Brown scored one point and grabbed one rebound.

Against Saks, Cleburne County won despite about the coldest start imaginable. The Tiger trailed 13-2 at one point in the first quarter and were behind 13-9 when the first quarter closed. Gable said his players were able to convert turnovers into some easy baskets in the second quarter and did a better job in their half-court defense at the same time. At intermission, Cleburne County led 20-17.

Epps led the way with 13 points and five rebounds. Ware finished with 10 points, three assists, three steals and two rebounds. Boyd had six points, three rebounds and two steals. Zeiders led in rebounds with Jonathan Fordham eight and scored four points. Norton had three points, three steals and three assists. Jones had two rebounds, Shawntavia Boyd going driving down the court for the basket. one steal and one assist.

Ranburne girls get the number one seed in tournament RIP DONOVAN

News Sports Correspondent

At the January 9 coaches meeting to seed this week’s Tri-County Shootout basketball tournament, the Ranburne girls got the No. 1 seed and will play No. 4 Clay Central in the annual tournament’s opening game today at 3 p.m. Cleburne County is the host school this year.

The Bulldogs are defending champions, having defeated Horseshoe Bend 54-36 in last year’s championship game. The girls championship game this year will be Friday at 6 p.m. The girls consolation contest is set for Friday at 3 p.m.

“It’s a challenge. They’re all committed to work hard. They’re all excited,” Ranburne coach Tim Smith said of his team’s reaction to receiving the top seed.

“The girls always give me a good effort. Sometimes we get off to a cold start but they play hard, play with a passion.”

Ranburne hosted Spring Garden on January and fell 64-31. The Panthers hit nine 3-point baskets for the game. Smith said Spring Garden’s 20-7 lead after one quarter set the tone for

the contest.

Hali Wilson had a double-double of 10 points and 12 rebounds to lead the Bulldogs. Indiana Morgan recorded 12 points, five rebounds and three blocks. Jesse Ralston had five points but was limited by illness. Alyssa Smith grabbed five rebounds and scored two points. Emily Hall netted a pair of free throws for two points. Kat Runels had four rebounds and Hannah Phillips two rebounds.

The loss ended a fivegame winning streak for Ranburne but the following night the Bulldogs started a new streak. Playing at Wellborn in a Class 2A, Area 10 game, Ranburne defeated Wellborn 62-33.

Morgan topped the scorers with 16 points on four field goals and an 8-for-8 effort at the foul line – all in the first half. She also made four steals. Wilson, Phillips and Alyssa Smith each contributed 12 points. Phillips added nine rebounds and two assists. Smith also had six rebounds, five assists and two blocks while Wilson had three assists and three rebounds. Runels and Lacey Smith had four points apiece. Runels finished with seven rebounds, four steals and three assists

and Smith four steals, two rebounds and two assists.

Hall recorded two points, two steals and two assists.

At Heflin Saturday, the Bulldogs downed Cleburne County 48-43. Ranburne led 14-6 after one quarter but just 33-30 after three quarters. Morgan scored nine of her teambest 14 points in the fourth to protect the lead. She also had four rebounds and two assists.

Alyssa Smith had 11 points, seven boards and five blocks. Wilson had nine points, nine rebounds, four steals and one block. Ralston scored eight points. Lacey Smith, Runels and Hall each scored two points. Smith nabbed four steals and five rebounds and Runels had two rebounds.

The Bulldogs picked up their third straight win Monday at Ohatchee in another Area 10 game. Their 49-30 victory sent their area record to 5-1.

“We played three quarters of lights-out defense,” Smith said of the effort that limited Ohatchee to five points in the first quarter, three in the second and one in the third.

Morgan had 11 points, four steals and two rebounds. Lacey Smith

scored 10 points and had two steals and two assists.

Alyssa Smith scored just two points but dominated the boards with 12 rebounds. She blocked three shots and had three assists and three steals. Ralston and Phillips tallied eight points apiece. Phillips had four rebounds. Ralston had five steals, three assists and two rebounds. Wilson scored four points.

Randolph County came to Ranburne Tuesday and left on the short end of a 57-25 score as Ranburne improved to 13-6. Ralston netted 14 points, all in the second half. Morgan, Wilson and Alyssa Smith each had 10 points. Smith had eight rebounds and three blocks. Morgan had six rebounds and Wilson had four rebounds and three assists.

Lacey Smith ended with seven points, six rebounds and four steals. Runels had four points and two boards. Phillips recorded two points, five rebounds and a block.

“We didn’t play all that great the first half but we came back and did a good job, held them to two points in the fourth quarter,” said the coach.

Tournament Schedule Thursday • Girls: No. 1 Ranburne v. No. 4 Clay Central, 3 p.m.

• Boys: No. 1 Ranburne v. No. 4 Horseshoe Bend, 4:30 p.m.

• Girls: No. 2 Cleburne County v. No. 3 Horseshoe Bend, 6 p.m.

• Boys: No. 2 Clay Central v. No. 3 Cleburne County, 7:30 p.m.

Friday • Girls consolation, 3 p.m.

• Boys consolation, 4:30 p.m.

• Girls championship, 6 p.m.

•Boys championship, 7:30 p.m.

Correction notice A Ranburne High School basketball player was misidentified in a photo that ran in the Jan. 9 issue of The Cleburne News. Spence Florczak is No. 21.

Tigers host the Tri-County tournament starting tonight RIP DONOVAN

News Sports Correspondent

Fans who traveled to Lincoln Tuesday night to watch the Cleburne County Tigers battle the Lincoln boys saw a game they’ll remember for a long time. In overtime, the Tigers edged the Golden Bears 59-56.

Cleburne County never trailed in the extra period but getting to overtime was nerve-wracking. The Tigers trailed 47-44 in the final 45 second of regulation before Cameron Kerr hit a 3-point basket to make the score 47-47. Lincoln responded with a basket for a 49-47 lead. With 4.6 seconds

on the clock, Christian Henson was fouled and the senior netted both his free throws to force the overtime.

The visitors got four points from Max Prichard, three from Henson and three from Kerr in overtime to secure the win.

Prichard finished with 19 points. Kerr scored eight of his 15 points in the fourth quarter to help the Tigers rally. Henson finished with 13 points. Griffin Turner scored five points, Tyler Berry three while Matthew Morrow and Jeremiah McLeroy each netted two points.

The Tigers hosted Ranburne Saturday and won 56-40. Neither team shot exceptionally well in the first half but Cleburne

County benefitted from Ranburne turnovers and led 23-11 at halftime.

Henson, Prichard and Kerr were Cleburne County’s double-figure scorers.

Henson scored 16 points, Prichard 12 points and Kerr 11 points. Morrow had seven points. Blake Pointer finished with four points. Isaiah Ware scored three points, McLeroy two and Turner one.

The only bump in the road for the Tigers in their last three outings came at Saks on Jan. 9 as the Wildcats won 68-62.

Cleburne County led 31-29 at halftime.

Henson had four 3-pointers and 22 points.

Morrow connected on five treys and ended with 17 points. Henson scored 11 points.

Kerr had four points, Berry three, McLeroy and Pointer two apiece and Ware one.

The Tigers are the No. 3 seed for the Tri-County Shootout and will play No. 2 Clay Central tonight in Heflin at 7:30 p.m.

Cleburne County will play either No. 1 Ranburne or No. 4 Horseshoe Bend Friday. The championship game in the boys bracket is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. The boys consolation game should start at 4:30 p.m.

After the tournament, the Tigers don’t play again until January 23 when they travel to Roanoke to meet the Handley Tigers.

The Cleburne News, Thursday, January 16, 2014 • 5

Cleburne

Churches

Cedar Creek by: Glenda Triplett

New Hope Ministries by: Veneta McKinney

God blessed us with a beautiful day to be in His house!

Please remember those who are unable to attend services. Especially remember CD and Naomi East and Genell Cobb.

Pastor Donald’s message was taken from 2 Chronicles 34. Josiah was only eight years old when he began to reign as King of Judah. The Scriptures tell us he sought the Lord and “did that which was right in the sight of the LORD”. When Josiah was sixteen years old “he began to seek after the God of David”. Although Josiah most likely had assistance during his early reign as King when he was 20 years old he “began to purge Judah and Jerusalem” from the places for pagan worship, wooden images and molten images. Under the previous reign of Josiah’s father Amon idol worship had become rampant.

Josiah had the altars and graven images broken down in his presence and had the dust of them scattered “upon the graves of them that had sacrificed unto them”.

At the age of 26 Josiah began “to repair the house of the LORD his God”. As the Temple was being repaired “Hilkiah the priest found a book of the law of the LORD given to Moses”. This was a momentus find! The Temple had not been used in years and the book of law was probably thought to have been destroyed by previous kings.

When King Josiah was told of the great find “he rent his clothes” as a sign of repentance for himself as well as his nation. As we continue reading 2 Chronicles we find Josiah led in restoring worship in the Temple and the Passover Feast. The last verse of chapter 34 reads “And Josiah took away all the abominations out of all the countries that pertained to the children of Israel, and made all that were present in Israel to serve, even to serve the LORD their God. And all his days they departed not from following the LORD, the God of their fathers.”

Greetings from New Hope Ministries. May the Lord bring provision into your household today!

On January 19 – 21 at 6:30 p.m. Bro. Robin Bullock will be ministering for us. He and his wife, Robin, are favorite speakers at New Hope - Miracles, signs and wonders! Make plans to come and hear a word from the Lord for your life.

Remember our TV program “New Hope Arising” can be found on TV 24. The times are Monday evenings at 5:30 pm, Wednesday morning at 9 am, and Friday afternoon at 2 p.m.

Last Sunday Pastor Vickey preached on “How to Get Through the Door.” The door is the opening to what God has for you and the keys are Faith and Fasting. We need to seek Him more and walk through the doors of opportunity. When we fast, we unplug from the world.

It’s a time to seek God’s face and cry out to Him. There is a war in the Heavenlies and fasting is the key to achieve victory. In Esther 4:16, Esther called for a fast – she called for everyone not to eat or drink for 3 days and cry out to God – and that fast turned a nation around. Fasting is the key. Take this time at the first of the year to really seek His face!

East Heflin by: Bruce Wright Brotherhood is this Sunday morning for any man or boy that is hungry! Clay Smith will be speaking. Youth are especially invited. On 18th, Roy and Gail Walker will celebrate their 50th at the Bell House at 4pm and the Good Timers will meet at Struts at 5pm on 23rd.

Bro. George opened to Joshua 3:1-17, “Are you Ready to Continue?” The children of Israel had wandered in the wilderness for forty years. It was a way they had never gone before. Prior, they were comfortable with where they were at. God wanted them to go further. For us to continue on the mission, we must rely on his presence.

The Israelites had the Ark of the Covenant in front of them. In it God had placed the Ten Commandments as their focus of salvation. He also placed the manna as an example of their need for satisfaction, and he placed the rod of Aaron which was used in the miracles as they were lead through the wilderness and parting of the sea.

We must rely on our following and closeness. We must recognize the power of God. We must stand in fear or will we step in faith forward? God has the answer! We must also rest in God’s provision and he will supply our needs and strengthen us. We must respect his precepts by trust and obeying. Don’t stand in fear of what God can do! He expects more out of us daily! Step out for Him in faith!

Happy Hill by: Debra Jackson Hello from Happy Hill. Hope everyone has been enjoying our variety of weather.

It was a beautiful sunshiny day at Happy Hill Sunday.

We had a good crowd but we sure missed those who were not there. It was so good to see some new faces in the congregation. On Sunday night, the message was delivered by Marty Barber.

Happy Hill will be hosting the Family & Friend Fest prayer meeting Thursday, January 16th at 6:30.

Join us in praying for Irmalene and Robert Norton, Betty Hayes, Carol Doyle, Earnest Bowen, Butch Pair, Sherry Brown, Ken Sanders, Terry Benefield, Rider Bearden, Joyce Craven, Rhonda O’Harrow, Lavada Vice and Alma Jacks.

Remember to attend church Sunday. Until next time, God Bless!

SENTENCE SERMON A marriage may be made in Heaven, but the maintenance must be done on earth.

THE LIGHTER SIDE Two elderly couples were enjoying friendly conversation when one of the men asked the other, “Fred, how was the memory clinic you went to last month?”

“Outstanding,” Fred replied. “They taught us all the latest psychological techniques: visualization, association, etc. It was great.”

“That’s great! And what was the name of the clinic?”

Fred went blank. He thought and thought, but couldn’t remember. Then a smile broke across his face and he asked, “What do you call that flower with the long stem and thorns?”

“You mean a rose?”

“Yes, that’s it!”

Fred turned to his wife.

“Rose, what was the name of that memory clinic?”

Mt. Olive Church of God by: Susie Smith “While I live will I praise the Lord: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being”, Psalms 146:2. This was our golden text for Sunday School, other scripture verses came from Revelation. God gets pleasure from our worship and praise. The title of the lesson was “Songs of Praise to God”. The devil won’t stay around when we’re praising God. Sometimes we get comfortable with God and fail to give him the praise He always deserves.

Brother Ronnie’s message this morning was 2 Corinthians 1:20 on the “Promises of God”. Romans 10:13 and John 3:16 are the highest promises of God; they tell us that whosoever (this means you) believes and calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. God is as close as our breath; if we fail to feel Him, we’re the ones who have moved. God will never leave or forsake us, but we have to obey him.

Tonight’s message was from Mark 4:35-41, in our world today there’s a storm of some type brewing for all of us. But Jesus is the Great Peace Giver. There is no peace to be found in the things of this world. In Luke 10:19 the Bible tells us through Jesus we have power over the enemy. Our Savior is on call 24 hrs a day 7 days a week 365 days a year.

Brother Ronnie’s number is 256-201-9444.

New Zion by: Shelia Sears Cunningham “It Is Time To Take A Stand” was Pastor Jerry Johnson’s powerful Sunday morning message. The scripture was Daniel 3:4-5, 17-18. Your mind has to be made up in order to follow God’s commands. You must be willing to take a stand for the Lord no matter what is going on in your life.

You cannot allow the world to change your mind.

When you live for the Lord, you have to stand firm in the midst of temptation. God will honor your stand for Him. He is able to deliver you from any adversity. When your situation goes from bad to worse, He will be with you.

Thought for the week: We cannot expect great things if we do not believe.

Pinetucky by: Mary Alvarado Search me, O God and know my heart: try me and know my thoughts and see if there be any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalms 139:2324.

Hope all is well with you and yours. Our house was packed this Sunday. If you visited please come again.

Brother and sister B.F. Coefield had their family with them, as they are going on their final mission trip to Tansia. Keep them in your prayers.

Please keep the sick and bereaved in your thoughts this week, there are so many but, God knows who you are.

We wish each one with a birthday and anniversary many happy returns.

Hope to see you in church Sunday.

Father go deep in our hearts and cleanse any sin that would keep us from being right with you.

Have a blessed week.

Verdon Chapel by: Richard Jackson We were blessed with another beautiful day to give God praise and worship today. Praise God for all His blessings!

Pastor Paul Cannon’s message was from Matthew, chapter 14. After feeding the five thousand, Jesus told His disciples to sail across the sea. During the trip, in the darkest part of the night, they encountered a violent storm. Jesus appeared, walking on the water, and was with them during the storm. Even when we do what Jesus asks us to do, we will encounter storms and darkness.

We have the assurance that Jesus is right there with us during these times. When Paul walked out on the water to meet Jesus, he was distracted by the storm and began to sink. Jesus saved him from drowning. Today, some people are drowning spiritually. They are drowning in a lifestyle of sin without Jesus. They are reaching out for help. They are looking for someone to show them the love and saving power of Jesus Christ. Is Jesus directing you to help someone in that condition? Are you helping to save someone from spiritually drowning? Listen, and let the Holy Spirit show you what to do.

Please pray for: Len Casey, Jo Simmons, the family of Cathy McComb, Lynn Smith, Roger Benefield, Billy Holbrook, Jay Daniel, Robert and Gladys Baughn, our church and its members.

We invite you to visit with us at Verdon Chapel.

Wise Chapel by: Dorcas Toney Bible study each Sunday at 5 p.m., hosted at Ranburne.

January 26, we will hold a luncheon for Realy for Life immediately following worship.

January 26 there will be a chili supper following Bible Study at Ranburne.

Many have prayer concerns: Lula Mae Camp, Kate Ethridge, Rider Bearden, Bea Crawford, Grayson Smith, Andrea Smith, Kit Carson, Ozell Benefield, Bobbye Williamson, Ronald Edwards, Clarence Noles, Pat McKinney, Andretti Daniel, Greg Poole, Lester Norton, Scott Tunksody, Mary Truett, Steven Brimer, Larry Boggs, Ronda Daniel, Mark and Greta Kirby, Liam, our troops, our nation, and national leaders. God bless each of you.

Scripture came from Acts:10:31-48.

Baptism, babies, or adults, children even. A promise to God to live for Him, bring a child up in His light. Acceptance of Jesus Chirst as our Savior and Lord. This is the fresh start of a new life. Old life gone and water doesn’t make it new. God does. Doesn’t have to be redone God doesn’t make mistakes but we may need to find Jesus again. Why then was Jesus baptized? He was showing us He was the sent one and by Him and through Him our sins are forgiven. Baptism, humbling ourselves before God, cleansed by God. Receive it.

Obituaries Cora Lea Johnson Burks

Cora Lea Johnson Burks, 75, of Heflin passed away on January 9 at Noland Hospital-RMC. Goodson Funeral Home was in charge of the cremation. Memorial services will be January 25 at 2 p.m., at Calvary Baptist Church.

Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Beth and Frank Kelly of Heflin; grandson Peyton Daniel Lee Kelly of Heflin; lifelong best friend Lois M. Gay and friend Sherron Crosson.

Cora was a 1958 graduate of CCHS, 1982 graduate of Ayers State and attended S.U.S.J.C She enjoyed her many years working in the public. After retiring she enjoyed being a full-time grandmother, her pets, cooking and Alabama football.

Clara Sue Laminack

Clara Sue Laminack, 72, died Monday, January 13, 2014 at her residence.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, January 16, 2014, at Bethel Cemetery with the Rev. Lowell Cantrell officiating.

Dryden Funeral Home is in charge of the services.

Survivors include: Son - Barry Laminack, Fruithurst, AL Brother - Harry Vredingburg Sister - Judy Tarchak Grand Child - Crystal Laminack Sister-in-law - Geraldine Allred Brother-in-law - James Laminack Pallbearers will be Family and Friends Mrs. Laminack was a native of Arkansas and resident of Cleburne County for 40 years. She served in the U.S. Navy for 4 years and was preceded in death by her husband Jerry Laminack.

Cathy Earlene McComb

Cathy Earlene McComb, 64, died Wednesday, January 08, 2014.

Funeral services were held January 14, 2014, at Freedom Baptist Church with the Rev. Darryl Jones and Rev. Jerome Whaley officiating. Burial followed in Pinetucky Cemetery.

Survivors include: Husband - Jack McComb, Heflin; Sons - Bobby McComb, Heflin, and Scott (Debra) McComb, Weaver; Brother - Ernie McCormick, Heflin; Grandchildren- Brandi (Adam) McComb, Jennifer (D.J.) Crow, Jeremy (Casey) Sellers, Gage Wilkerson, Brooke Lecroy; Great Grand Child - Ashley Crow and Landon Austin; aunts, uncles, Nieces and nephews Family and friends served as pallbearers.

Mrs. McComb was a native and lifelong resident of Cleburne County, worked at Sewell Manufacturing and was a member of Freedom Baptist Church. Her mother passed away as a result of the same car accident as Earlene. She was preceded in death by her father, Earl McCormick.

GayCille Roberts Swisher

GayCille Roberts Swisher, 69, died Sunday, January 12, 2014 at her residence.

Funeral services were held Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with the Dr. Larry Riddle officiating.

Burial followed in Pleasant Hill Cemetery.

Survivors include: Mother - Elva Roberts, Heflin; Former Husband - Fred Swisher, Fort Lauderdale, FL Daughter - Tamela (Jeff) Isley, Dallas, GA Son - Terry (Julia) Swisher, Dallas, GA Son - Scott(Shauna) Swisher, Memphis, TN Sister - June(Phillip) Nelson, Macon, GA Brother - Don(Kerstin) Roberts, Heflin, AL Brother - Phillip Roberts, Heflin, AL Grand Children - Tyler Swisher, Corbin Swisher, Cameron Swisher KaitLynn Isley, Connor Isley, Kerrigan Isley Pallbearers: Don Roberts, Phillip Roberts, Phillip Nelson, Corbin Swisher, Cameron Swisher, Tyler Swisher and Conner Isley.

A native of Heflin, Alabama Mrs. Swisher had been a resident of Georgia for most of her life. She had lived in Dallas, Georgia for the past 10 years. She was a member of Roswell Street Baptist Church and was preceded in death by her father, Donald Roberts.

Local Church & Community Events January 25

Choccolocco Community Church, 22 Nicholas Court, Anniston, AL will have a Chili Supper and Singing on Saturday, January 25, 2014 at 5 - 6 p.m. Chili, cornbread, drinks and dessert will be served for $5.00 followed by great music and singing. Join us for a night of food and fellowship. For directions or more info. call Jane Roberson at 256-253-9120.

Mt. Paran Baptist Church, County Road 40 Fruithurst will host a ladies retreat on Saturday January 25, at 9 a.m.- 12 p.m., EST , lunch will follow. There is no charge for retreat or lunch. Guest speakers will be Kyla Rowland of Morristown TN, Sara White of Polk Co. GA and Nikki Shaw of Cedartown GA. Music by , Hope’s Journey of Heflin Theme “ How Deep Is Your Well “ come be with us, and be blessed. Also that evening at 6 p.m., EST Kyla Rowland and Deliverance will be singing. For information or directions, call 770-579-5263

Deadine is Monday at 5 p.m.

Email news and events to mpointer@cleburnenews.com

6 • The Cleburne News, Thursday January 16, 2014

Buster Miles Ford 1880 Almon Street Heflin, Al 36264 Office, 256.463.2247

Buster Miles Chevrolet 685 Ross Street Heflin, Al 36264 Office, 256.463.2151

Salesmen of the Month

Steve Perry Chevrolet

Tim Pruitt Ford

mmiles1@bustermiles.com

www.bustermiles.com

L. WAYNE TOWNSEND, DMD Family Dentistry

Anniston, AL 36207 (256) 236.2533

Heflin, AL 36264 (256) 463.2426

TO THE ONLY GOD, OUR SAVIOR, THROUGH JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD, BE GLORY, MAJESTY, DOMINION, AND AUTHORITY, BEFORE ALL TIME AND NOW AND FOREVER. AMEN

Piggly Wiggly 800 Ross Street 256.463.2295

“Lowest Total Food Bill In Town”

ASSEMBLY OF GOD BETH-EL 5250 Hwy. 46 Heflin, 463-4673 BAPTIST

John S. Casey

Carolyn P. Casey

Tel. (256) 463-2101 Fax (256) 463-2102 caseylaw@caseylawoffices.com.

Patrick P. Casey P.O. Box 249 126 Burns Street Heflin, Alabama 36264

AI BAPTIST RR 2, Box 220A Heflin, 748-3002 BEULAH BAPTIST CHURCH 1616 CR 57 Muscadine, AL 36269 CANAAN BAPTIST 3808 County Rd. 11 Heflin, 253-2760 CEDAR CREEK BAPTIST 13019 Co Rd 19 Heflin, 463-4220 CHULAFINNEE BAPTIST 6961 Hwy. 431 Heflin, 253-9077 CONCORD BAPTIST RR 1, Box 14 Muscadine, 748-4412

Cleburne Pharmacy 875 Ross Street• Heflin, Al 36264 256-463-2197

EAST HEFLIN BAPTIST 189 Evans Bridge Rd. Heflin, 463-5650 EDWARDSVILLE BAPTIST 4062 Burton St. Edwardsville FIVE POINTS BAPTIST 2535 County Rd.6 Heflin, 253-2155 FREEDOM BAPTIST 2124 Frank Ledbetter Mem Dr. Ranburne, 568-2277

HEFLIN

Locally Owned & Operated TO GOD BE THE GLORY FOR ALL HE HAS DONE

FRIENDSHIP BAPTIST RR 1 Muscadine, 574-7176 FRUITHURST BAPTIST 125 School St. Fruithurst, 579-2027 HAPPY HILL Hwy 46 Heflin HEFLIN BAPTIST 155 Almon St. Heflin, 463-2576 HEPSABAH BAPTIST 77 County Rd. 106 Heflin, 253-2956

253 County Road 88 CUB CADET BOBCAT STIHL SCAG REDMAX BOBCAT

463-7303

HERITAGE BAPTIST 5973 Hwy 78 Heflin HARMONY GROVE Co Rd 65 Fruithust MACEDONIA BAPTIST 123 County Rd. 927 Heflin, 253-2173

“A Real Community Bank”

(256) 357-9774 • Toll Free: 1-866-879-7654

MACEDONIA BAPTIST 3920 County Rd. 48 Ranburne, 748-4460 MARANATHA MISSIONARY BAPTIST 1379 Oxford St.

Heflin, 463-2159 MOUNT OLIVE BAPTIST 73 Church St. Heflin, 463-5459 MT PARAN BAPTIST FRUITHURST, AL MUSCADINE BAPTIST County Rd. 49 Muscadine, 579-2112 NEW HARMONY 2359 Hwy. 9 Heflin, 463-5840 NEW HOPEWELL 11654 County Rd 49 Heflin NEW ZION BAPTIST 217 Jefferson St. Heflin, 463-1099 OAK HILL BAPTIST 349 County Rd. 823 Heflin, 831-8467 OLD HOPEWELL BAPTIST Co. Rd. 43 PILGRIMS REST FIRST BAPTIST 2211 County Rd. 205 Fruithurst, 463-5636 PINE GROVE BAPTIST 921 Co. Rd. 62 Heflin 748-8701 PINETUCKY BAPTIST 2984 Co Rd 10 PLEASANT HILL BAPTIST Hwy 9 RANBURNE FIRST BAPTIST 2700 Frank Ledbetter Mem Dr. Ranburne, 568-3677

CHURCH OF GOD PO Box 153 Edwardsville EASTH ATH CHURCH OF GOD Fruithurst, 579-1011 HEFLIN CHURCH OF GOD 205 Willoughby St. Heflin, 463-2902 MOUNT OLIVE CHURCH OF GOD 2763 County Rd. 65 Fruithurst, 463-5569 EPISCOPAL EPISCOPAL CHURCH – THE MESSIAH 836 Lakeview Dr. Heflin, 463-2928 HOLINESS Liberty Rock Holiness 2488 Hwy 46 334-707-3585 METHODIST ANTIOCH UMC 12657 County Road 49 Heflin 256-201-7074 Cody Shelton Pastor BETHEL UNITED METHODIST County Road 80 Muscadine 463-2178 CAMPGROUND UNITED METHODIST 24581 County Rd. 49 Muscadine, 463-1123 CHULAFINNEE METHODIST 1834 County Rd. 8 Heflin, AL 36264 253-2692 FIRST UNITED METHODIST 785 Ross St. Heflin, 463-2441

UNION HILL BAPTIST 13621 County Rd. 10 Ranburne,

GREEN’S CHAPEL County Road 36, Heflin

VERDON CHAPEL 12581 Highway 46 Heflin, Al.36264 256-748-2679

HURRICANE METHODIST Co Rd. 42 Heflin SS 10a.m. -WS 11a.m.

SEVENTH-DAY

LIBERTY HILL METHODIST 77 County Rd. 142 Heflin, 253-3337

VISE GROVE SEVENTHDAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 303 County Road 116 Heflin, AL 36264 CHRISTIAN RHEMA CHRISTIAN CENTER 8386 Hwy. 431 Heflin, 253-2070 CHURCH OF GOD CRUMLEY’S CHAPEL CHURCH OF GOD 288 County Rd. 644 Heflin, 748-4044 EDWARDSVILLE

RANBURNE UNITED METHODIST 11 Church Dr. Ranburne, 568-2534

Loans from $150 to $5,000 Approved in 30 minutes or less!

All loans subject to our liberal lending policies

Columbus Finance & Tax Service 596 Ross St. • Heflin, Al 36264 256.463.4377

Sarah Matilda’s Antiques and Gifts “Antiques, Gifts and Gourmet Foods” 542 Ross Street Heflin, Alabama 36264 Wed-Fri: 10:00-5:00, Sat: 10:00-2:00

(256)463-2552 Sarahmatildas@gmail.com Sarahmatildas.com

1221 Almon St. Heflin, Al 36264

WISE CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST 14950 Hwy. 46 Heflin, 748-2013

Store Hours:

APOSTOLIC

Mon - Sat 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Sunday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Deli Hours: Mon-Fri 10:30 - 2 p.m.

NEW BEGINNINGS MINISTRY 5151 Hwy. 78 Heflin, 463-5588

WRIGHT DRUG COMPANY Heflin Diabetes Care Center

Gary W. Wright, R.Ph., CDE Greg Denman 256.568.3984 800.523.9568

Registered Pharmacist Certified Diabetes Educator

21144 Main Street Ranburne, AL 36273

Ryan Jackson, Pharm D

960 Ross Street Heflin, AL 36264

Phone: (256) 463-2188 Fax: (256) 463-2377

Drop by any of these supporters and say thank you for their support of our Devotional page

The Cleburne News, Thursday January 16, 2014 •7

Heflin woman dies after crash on icy U.S. 78 LAURA CAMPER

news@cleburnenews.com

Alexandria Holland

Sophia Laminack and Chloe Kerr

Dixie Gibson

Gracie Sanders

Local ballet students perform at The Nutcracker

Black ice on U.S. 78 near the Cleburne County line was a factor in a wreck that claimed the life of a Heflin woman Wednesday night, according to officials who responded to the scene.

Cathy McComb, 64, died after being airlifted to UAB Hospital in Birmingham, said Calhoun County Coroner Pat Brown.

Chief Deputy Matt Wade said Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office dispatchers received a call at 9:39 p.m. about the accident.

“All we could hear was screaming,” Wade said.

Deputies arrived after Alabama State Troopers, who already had control of the scene, Wade said.

Sgt. Steve Jarrett of the troopers emailed a statement Thursday that said ice on the road may have contributed to the crash.

The accident was still under investigation, according to the statement.

According to the statement, the vehicle McComb was driving collided with another vehicle at mile marker 171, about 5 miles west of Heflin. A third vehicle then struck the wreckage, according to the statement.

McComb was injured when the third car crashed into the wreck, Brown said.

Katherine McCormick, a passenger in McComb’s car also was injured and taken to Regional Medical Center in Anniston, Brown said. McCormick,80, later died.

Van Roberts Jr., assistant chief of the Quad Cities Volunteer Fire Department, also responded to the wreck. Roberts said besides McComb, two people were taken to hospitals, though he couldn’t provide any information about them. Roberts provided medical assistance to McCombs and accompanied her in the ambulance to Word of Life Church in Coldwater, where he helped transfer her to the air ambulance, he said.

“We provided basic medical care and assisted the Alabama State Troopers with traffic and clearing the road,” Roberts said.

He said the highway was closed from 9:30 p.m. until about midnight, when the road was cleared and the Alabama Highway Department had spread sand on the ice patch.

Rebecca White, spokeswoman for the Alabama Department of Transportation, said the department was notified that a pipe had burst in the area and water had reached the road and frozen.

White said ALDOT has a website, http://alitsweb.dot.state.al.us/RoadConditions, that motorists can use to check road conditions on state roads. The site lists weather hazards and road work.

The Calhoun County Water Authority and Calhoun County Engineer Brian Rosenbalm had no record of burst pipes in the area.

Staff Writer Laura Camper 256-4632872. On Twitter @LCamper_Star.

On December 8, 2013, students of Rachel Hulsey danced in the production of The Nutcracker with the Alabama Ballet.

Second victim dies after Wednesday crash on U.S. 78

Board: “We are getting puppies, puppies, puppies,” Smith said. “

MADASYN CZEBINIAK

From page 1

46 should be completed in mid-February. The weather has set the project back some, Rooks said.

— Approved buying a full-page advertisement for $600 in a magazine being created by the Cleburne County Chamber of Commerce to promote Cleburne County.

— Approved an agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation to maintain Stephens Street off of Alabama 9. Officials believe the new street would serve the Subway restaurant that has proposed building there.

— Approved participating in the state’s Severe Weather Sales Tax Holiday on Feb. 21 through Feb. 23. To qualify for the holiday, items must cost $60 or less and be useful in severe weather situations. Merchandise covered in the law include batteries, phone chargers, battery-powered radios and NOAA radios.

— Declared Feb. 24 through 28 as Tree Planting Week in Heflin.

Staff Writer Laura Camper 256-4632872. On Twitter @LCamper_Star.

CCHS Band sponsors pageant Miss Cleburne County Pageant will be held February 22. The pageant is sponsored by the Cleburne County High School Tiger Band. It will be held at the CCHS Gym. The entry fee is $50.00.

All Girls PreK - 12 are Invited to Participate. Deadline for registration

will be February 12. Entry Forms are available at: All Cleburne County Schools, WM Grocery and Dryden’s Florist in Heflin and Buddy’s Sports in Hollis.

For more information contact CleburneCountyBand@gmail.com

Consolidated News Service

A second victim in a crash last week on U.S. 78 died this weekend in a Birmingham hospital, officials said today.

Catherine McCormick, 80, of Heflin, died at UAB Hospital on Sunday at 4:50 p.m., according to Calhoun County Coroner Pat Brown.

The cause of her death was multiple blunt force trauma, the coroner said.

McCormick was a passenger in a car driven by her daughter Cathy McComb, 64, of Heflin, that

was involved in an accident on Wednesday.

According to an emailed statement from Alabama State Troopers, the accident occurred when McComb’s vehicle collided with another at mile marker 171, about 5 miles from Heflin at 9:30 p.m. Wednesday.

McCormick was injured in the collision, Brown said Monday.

Brown said that after the collision, McComb got out of her car and was hit by a third vehicle. She was flown to UAB, where she died Wednesday.

Brown said Monday that he did not know whether McComb had also been injured in the first collision.

According to Brown, McCormick was taken to Regional Medical Center on Wednesday and was later transferred to UAB, where she died Sunday.

According to the emailed statement from troopers, ice on the road may have contributed to the crash. The cause of the wreck was still under investigation Monday, according to troopers.

Staff writer Madasyn Czebiniak: 256-235-3562.

On Twitter @MCzebiniak_ Star.

January is

Radon Action Month Radon is a colorless, odorless and tasteless radioactive gas and is the second leading cause of lung cancer.

A Risk You Can Fix

Protect Your Family’s Health by Testing Your Home for Radon Gas in 2014.

Test: All homes with or without basements should be tested for radon. Affordable Do-It-Yourself radon test kits are available online and at home improvement and hardware stores, or you can hire a qualified radon tester.

Fix: EPA recommends taking action to fix radon levels at or above

e COPD, Emphysema or Chronic Bronchitis v a H u o Y o ?

D Doctors are now enrolling a Clinical Research trial for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.

You may qualify to take part in a clinical research study of an investigational medication if: ➢ You are 40-80 years of age ➢ Have a smoking history of 10 years or more Qualified participants will receive: • Study related medical care • Study medication • Compensation for time and travel

Take the first step and see if you qualify Call (256) 236-0055 or email info@pinnacletrials.com

4 picoCuries per Liter (pCi/L) and contacting a qualified radonreduction contractor. In most cases, a system with a vent pipe and fan is used to reduce radon.

Save a Life: 21,000 Americans die from radon related lung

cancer each year. By fixing elevated levels in your home, you can help prevent lung cancer while creating a healthier home for you and your family. Radon test results are a positive selling point for those putting a house on the market. In addition, if you are looking to build a new home, there are now safer and healthier radonresistant construction techniques that home buyers can discuss with builders to prevent this health hazard.

For more information on how to test, find a qualified radon professional, or obtain a test kit contact your state radon office: David A. Turberville Radon Program Contact Office of Radiation Control Alabama Department of Public Health 1-800-582-1866 The Alabama Department of Public Health

Office of Radiation Control

Additional Information: www.epa.gov/radon • 1-800-SOS-RADON

8 • The Cleburne News, Thursday, January 16, 2014

Ranburne travels to Heflin for Tri-County tournament RIP DONOVAN

News Sports Correspondent

It will be No. 1 seed Ranburne versus No. 4 seed Horseshoe Bend today at 4:30 p.m. in the boys bracket of the Tri-County Shootout at the Cleburne County High School gym. Today’s winner meets the winner of tonight’s late boys game between Clay Central and Cleburne County at 7:30 p.m. Friday in the championship game. The boys consolation game is Friday at 4:30 p.m.

Second-year Ranburne coach Stephen Bailey called getting the top seed something of a surprise but a pleasant one.

“I think it gives us a much easier chance to rest to be able to play that championship game with fresh legs,” Bailey said Wednesday. “Hopefully, it allows us to stay fresh.

That’s the biggest thing.”

The Bulldogs will be looking to bounce back after a narrow 50-49 loss to visiting

Randolph County Tuesday.

The score was deadlocked at 29-29 at halftime. With 90 seconds to play, Ranburne trailed by four and still had four fouls to give. Randolph County’s initial trip to the foul line in the late going produced two made free throws and a 50-44 lead. With about 40 seconds left, Dylan Wiggins drilled a 3-point basket.

Ahead now just 50-47, Randolph County missed at the line then fouled Wiggins on a 3-point attempt. He sank two of his three attempts but 5049 was as close as the Bulldogs got.

Kyle Lovvorn and Blake Young each scored 10 points for Ranburne. Wiggins finished with seven points. Mark David Smith and Brayden Wilson had six points apiece.

Owen Smith scored five points, Jay Smith four points and Spence Florczak one point.

The Randolph County contest ended a run of five games in six days for Ranburne.

The Bulldogs were 2-3 in the

stretch but won the games that mattered most in the long run, their Class 2A, Area 10 meetings against Wellborn and Ohatchee.

On January 9, Spring Garden came to Ranburne and won 61-56. The Bulldogs trailed 21-13 after one quarter and, as Bailey said, “just could not catch up.” Wiggins had 13 points, nine rebounds and four steals. Wilson tallied 12 points. Lovvorn had 10 points and four rebounds.

Owen Smith scored seven points. Mark David Smith had five points and four rebounds.

Jay Smith scored for points, Logan Sibley two points and Florczak one.

At Wellborn Friday, Ranburne won 76-75 in overtime.

At the end of regulation, each team had 71 points. In overtime, Wilson had a basket and Owen Smith a free throw before Mark David Smith tipped in a missed layup to overcome Wellborn’s 75-74 lead with about 10 seconds to play. The Panthers missed twice thereafter.

Woeful free throw shooting ended any chance Ranburne had of defeating Cleburne County in Heflin Saturday.

The Bulldogs netted just seven of their 28 free throw attempts. Lovvorn had 11 points and six rebounds. Mark David Smith scored 10 points and added six boards. Wilson scored nine points. Jay Smith had four points. Owen Smith, Young and Florczak each had two points. Wiggins contributed eight rebounds, four steals and two assists.

Ten players dressed and 10 players scored as Ranburne improved to 6-0 in Area 10 with their 70-46 win at Ohatchee Monday. The Bulldogs led 23-7 after one quarter. Lovvorn scored 13 points and Mark David Smith scored nine. Wilson, Wiggins and Owen Smith had eight points apiece. Jay Smith scored seven, Young six, Florczak five, Sibley four and Jared Brown two. Young, Wiggins and Mark David pulled down eight rebounds apiece and Wiggins made three steals.

RHS wrestlers travel to Wellborn on Monday RIP DONOVAN

News Sports Correspondent

The long Christmas break left the Ranburne wrestlers rusty at Cleburne County High School’s Rumble in the Jungle tournament on January 4. The severe cold early the next week cost the Bulldogs their only scheduled matches last week so when Ranburne went to Saks Tuesday to take on the Wildcats and the Lincoln Golden Bears coach Jay Harlan wasn’t sure what to expect.

What Harlan got was 2-0 performances from seven different wrestlers. Noah McCord (126 pounds), Logan Otwell (138), Tyler East (145), Dalton Wiggins (160), Dylan Tullis (182), Austin Jordan (195) and Zach Eason (220) each won both their matches.

“I was really pleased with (Tuesday) night,” Harlan said Wednesday. “We’d been working on some different stuff at practice. It’s tough to practice every day and not wrestle but I saw a lot of improvement (Tuesday) night. I was very pleased with the way we wrestled.”

At the Rumble in the Jungle, Wiggins was third at 152 and Eason third at 220. Tullis finished fourth at 182.

Next week, Ranburne travels to Wellborn Monday for the Wellborn Duals. Oxford and Bowdon (Ga.) come to Ranburne Tuesday.

Misty Pointer

Spann visits FES James Spann from ABC3340 visited Fruithurst Elementary school on Monday to talk with the students about meteorology. Helping him operate the camera is Stella McWhorter.

Red Cross looks to use Cleburne schools EDDIE BURKHALTER

eburkhalter@annistonstar.com

Cleburne County school buildings would make ideal emergency shelters, an American Red Cross volunteer told the school board Monday in a presentation about the possibility of designating the structures as Red Cross shelters.

Red Cross representative Chris Hill said the location, capacity, food-preparation capabilities and access to showers make school buildings ideal for use as shelters after natural disasters and other emergencies.

“Why right now?,” Hill asked.

“We’re making an honest effort to make ourselves more visible in Cle-

burne County.”

Other Red Cross designated shelters in the area are the former armory building at the Heflin Community Center and Heflin Baptist Church, but Hall explained that more shelters are needed because of the size of Cleburne County.

Board members said they would discuss the matter at a future meeting.

The next board meeting is scheduled for Feb. 3 at Ranburne Elementary School.

In other business the board members: — Approved the 2014 textbook committees.

— Approved a bid of $76,646 submitted by Southland International for a school bus.

— Approved the extension of the child nutrition contract of Bill Bailey until May 30, 2014.

— Approved the extension of Ranburne Elementary School Principal Brenda Hall for three years and six months.

— Approved the child nutrition charged meal policy.

— Approved field trips to the Oxford Center for the Performing Arts and the McWane Center.

— Recognized the school district’s transportation department for receiving an excellent rating of the school bus inspection exit report conducted on Nov. 8.

Staff Writer Eddie Burkhalter: 256-235-3563. On Twitter @burkhalter_star. © 2014 Alabama Power Company

What is it that makes us different here?

DELIVERY CONTRACTOR BIDS

To request a bid package please write to:

Alabama Power Company Merchandise Sales Attn: Delivery Contractor Bids 1200 6th Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35203 Requests must be received by January 31, 2014.

Train to become a Medical Office Assistant!

NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Online training at SC Train gets you job ready!

HS Diploma/GED & PC/Internet needed!

1-877-649-3155

Quality of Life Health Services, Inc. has the

following positions available: Location: Calhoun Quality Health Care Anniston, AL Learn to drive for (Operating Hours Werner Enterprises!

Mon. - Fri. 12p-9p) Earn $800 per week!

LPN- Graduated from an acNo experience needed! credited program in practical Local CDL Training. nursing, current registration to Job ready in 15 days! work as a L P N in the State of 1-888-743-4701 AL, 1 yr. of clinical exp. in an outpatient setting is preferred.

Drivers: Now Hiring Medical Assistant - performs Class “A” CDL Drivers for Short Haul-Home Every Night! age specific assessments, faSE Regional, OTR & 7 on 7 off miliar with medical terminology and electronic medical sysfleets. Home Every Weekend! tems. Certification is preferred.

Great Pay & Benefits!

Location: Call: 1-855-867-3413 Cleburne Quality Health Care General Contractor looking Heflin, AL Dental Assistant- Certification for working superintendents. of completion of a dental asPosition has opportunity to sistant course at a vocational learn a new trade. Position school. Must have knowledge requires travel, including out of of oral anatomy and standards state travel. A clean driving of oral hygiene and at least 1 record is required, a drug test to 2 yrs exp. required. Construction experi- Dental Hygienist - Assists dentist in providing oral health ence is preferred. Forward care. Completed a dental resumes to: Arris Inc., 5155 hygienist program and mainBains Gap Rd, Anniston, AL tain licensure as a dental hygi36205 Fax 256.847.3457 or enist by the Alabama Board of hr@arrisconstruction.com.

Dental Examiners.

No phone calls please.

Location: Quality of Life Health Care Gentlemen’s Club Complex Gadsden, AL Atalla AL. Dancers wanted Clinical Data Specialist 256-458-0943 or 256-538-5676 Cert. Pro. Coder (CPC) to apHeavy Equipment Opera- ply the appropriate diagnostic tor Training! Bulldozers, and procedural codes to indiBackhoes, Excavators.

3 vidual patient health informaWeeks Hands On Program. tion for data retrieval, analysis, and claims processing; current Local Job Placement Assis- AAPC certification required. tance. National Certifications. All Positions Require a HS diGI Bill Benefits Eligible. ploma or GED. Send résumés 1-866-362-6497 to Attn: H R Dept. P.O. Box 97, Gadsden, AL 35902, fax to (256) 492-7182 or email to careeropportunities@qolhs.com.

We are an EOE and Drug Free Workplace. www.qolhs.org

Driver Trainees Needed Now!

TO THE BEST OF OUR KNOWLEDGE All of the ads in this column represent legitimate offerings, however The Cleburne News does recommend that readers exercise normal business caution in responding to ads.

Elnora Manor Apartments • Offering 1 BD, 2BD, 3BR Units designed for Senior Citizens, family and handicapped individuals.

• Appliances furnished including washer/dryer connections in apartments.

• Community room, office and laundry room on property.

We’re located at 100 Adams Street Heflin, AL 36264 For applications or more information call 256-463-2505

(This institution is an Equal Opportunity Provider & Employer)

Heflin Manor is now accepting applications on 1, 2 &3 Bedroom.

Amenities: Microwave, Dishwasher, Washer & Dryer Connection, Playground/Covered Bus Stop, Ceiling Fan, Frost Free Refrigerator with Ice Maker, !!! ETC !!!

(This institution is an Equal Opportunity Provider & Employer)

Alabama Power Company is seeking contractor bids for home delivery and setup of appliances for Talladega, Cleburne and Calhoun counties.

General qualifications including appliance installation experience is required.

MEDICAL OFFICE TRAINEES NEEDED!

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 256-463-5807 OR 463-2505

Talladega, Cleburne and Calhoun Counties

Interested parties must provide proof of insurance showing general and automotive liability limits and worker’s compensation insurance.

TO THE BEST OF OUR KNOWLEDGE All of the ads in this column represent legitimate offerings, however The Cleburne News does recommend that readers exercise normal business caution in responding to ads.

Maybe it’s just knowing when to help. Here in Alabama, some people are having trouble paying their bills. You can help us help them. Just make a small donation to Project SHARE on your next Alabama Power bill. Or give online at AlabamaPower.com/ProjectSHARE. Together with the American Red Cross we can show everyone what makes us different here.

HEFLIN HILLS APARTMENTS

265 Evans Street, Heflin, AL 36264 We have 1 & 2 bedroom apartments.

Our apartments are designed for elderly & disabled.

We furnish water, sewer garbage & major appliances.

We have on site maintenance and laundry room.

Rents are based on income.

For more information contact Cathy Monday - Wednesday 8 a.m.- 12 noon at 463-7000.

TDD Users 1-800-548-2546

(This institution is an Equal Opportunity Provider & Employer)

The Cleburne News, Thursday, January 16, 2014 – 9

Medical Practice Needs LPN’s, CNA’s & MA’s. Please send resume to PO Box 1738 Anniston, AL 36202

Arcade Games for sale 60 game Multicade, all your old favorites from 1980’s Call 256-435-4148

Metal Fabrication

Equipment For Sale: 2 METAL LATHES: 72” Sirco PA-20; 60” J E T. model # 1550.

Serial # 3249 If interest contact 334-338-1730 334-338-5823

Stairlifts- Wheelchair Lifts local sales, local service, made in the USA, Grizzard Living Aids 256-237-2006 TO THE BEST OF OUR KNOWLEDGE All of the ads in this column represent legitimate offerings, however The Cleburne News does recommend that readers exercise normal business caution in responding to ads.

#1 I buy junk cars paying $200 & up, will match competitor’s price.

Honest, dependable & fair on the price, 256-310-0552

***END OF YEAR BLOWOUT***

Save Thousands with factory rebates & close out prices!

MINTON HOME CENTER Oxford, AL 256-835-0152 Land Home & Home Only FHA, VA & Conventional Financing Available

TO THE BEST OF OUR KNOWLEDGE All of the ads in this column represent legitimate offerings, however The Cleburne News does recommend that readers exercise normal business caution in responding to ads.

TO THE BEST OF OUR KNOWLEDGE All of the ads in this column represent legitimate offerings, however The Cleburne News does recommend that readers exercise normal business caution in responding to ads.

TO THE BEST OF OUR KNOWLEDGE All of the ads in this column represent legitimate offerings, however The Cleburne News does recommend that readers exercise normal business caution in responding to ads.

INSTRUCTION MEDICAL OFFICE trainees needed! Train to become a Medical Office Assistant! No experience needed! Online training at SC gets you job ready! HS diploma/GED & PC/Internet needed!

1-888-926-6075. (R) _________________________ SERVICES High-SPEED Internet is now available where you live for only $39.99 per mo. New Superfast Satellite Internet with speeds up to 15 Mbps! Ask about discounts for DishNetwork or DirecTv customers!

We also now offer phone service as low as $19.99 per mo.

Call Today!

1-800-266-4409 www.pbsinternet.com _________________________ HELP WANTED-DRIVERS 25 DRIVER TRAINEES needed now! Become a driver for TMC Transportation!

Earn $750 per week! No experience needed! Job ready in 15 days!

1-888-743-4611. (R) _________________________ ATTN: DRIVER trainees needed! $800 to $1000 a week plus benefits! Home weekly or OTR! Everyone approved if qualified!

Company sponsored, cash, finance, GI bill, WIA. No CDL, no problem, will train locally!

1-800-878-2537. (R) _________________________ DRIVERS - HIRING experienced/inexperienced tanker drivers! Above average industry pay. Make up to $0.51 per mile plus additional pay for Hazmat loads, pump offs, mileage bonus and more! Late model equipment w/APU’s! 1 year OTR experience required.

Call today: 1-877-882-6537. www.OakleyTransport.com. _________________________ DRIVERS: RUN FB with WTI. Be home through the week and

weekends. Start up to 28% plus fuel bonus. New equipment. BCBS. Experience needed.

LP available.

Call 1-877-693-1305. (R) _________________________ NEED CLASS A CDL training?

Start a career in trucking today!

Swift Academies offer PTDI certified courses and offer “Best-In-Class” training. New academy classes weekly, no money down or credit check, certified mentors ready and available, paid (while training with mentor), regional and dedicated opportunities, great career path, excellent benefits package.

Please call: 1-520-226-4557. _________________________ NEW CAREER - CDL training.

Jobs available if qualified. Call today - start tomorrow! WIA, VA, Post-9/11 G.I. Bill & Rehab.

ESD TDS, LLC. 1-866-432-0430. www.ESDschool.com. (R) _________________________ NOW HIRING OTR flatbed drivers. Birmingham to Florida & Texas. $0.38 - $0.45 per mile. Home most weekends.

BC/BS insurance + benefits.

Minimum 2 years experience & clean MVR. 1-800-580-2205 x 1. _________________________ OWNER OPERATORS - average $3K per week! Be out up to 14 days, enjoy guaranteed home time! Weekly settlements. Cardinal Greatwide pays loaded or unloaded.

Class-A CDL & 1yr driving experience. Fleet owners welcome. Operate under your own authority or ours! Call Matt 1-866-833-1340. driveforcardinal.com. _________________________ REGIONAL CDL-A drivers Averitt offers fantastic benefits and weekly hometime.

1-888-362-8608. Paid training for recent grads w/a CDL-A and drivers with limited experience. Apply online at AverittCareers.com. Equal Opportunity Employer. _________________________ HELP WANTED-SALES MAKE 2014 your year! Earn $100k+ annually. Recruiting, franchise sales, home improvements, or copier sales a plus.

For more information send resume to Jim Kinning: jkinning@federalmachine.com. _________________________ WANTED: LIFE Agents: Earn $500 a day; great agent benefits; commissions paid daily; complete training; leads, leads, leads; no license necessary to apply. Call 1-888-713-6020. _________________________ HELP WANTED-TRADES HEAVY EQUIPMENT operator training! Bulldozers, backhoes, excavators. 3 week hands on program. Local job placement assistance. National certifications. GI Bill benefits eligible.

1-866-362-6497. _________________________ LAND FOR SALE MOUNTAIN STREAM Bargain!

Beautifully wooded acreage 390’ crystal clear stream, natural year-round spring, prime Blue Ridge Mountain location.

Paved roads, utilities municipal water, more. Only $27,900.

Excellent financing, little down.

Call now 1-866-952-5303, ext.

110. _________________________ FOR SALE SAWMILLS FROM only $4897.

Make & save money with your own bandmill. Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship. Free info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com.

1-800-578-1363 ext. 300N. _________________________ MEDICAL SUPPLIES NEW AND used - stair lift elevators, car lifts, scooters, lift chairs, power wheel chairs, walk-in tubs. Covering all of Alabama for 23 years. Elrod Mobility 1-800-682-0658. (R) _________________________

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF CLEBURNE COUNTY, ALABAMA

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF RICHARD LEE TURNER, DECEASED CASE NO. 2013-112 NOTICE OF HEARING BY PUBLICATION TO: ANY AND ALL KNOWN AND UNKNOWN HEIRS OF RICHARD LEE TURNER, DECEASED YOU WILL PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on the 26th day of December, 2013, a certain paper in writing, purported to be the Last Will and Testament of RICHARD LEE TURNER was filed in my office for probate by MICHAEL DEAN SMITH and that the 10th day of February, 2014, at 10:00 o’clock A.M. was appointed a day for hearing thereof, at which time you can appear and contest the same, if you see proper.

Given under my hand this 7th day of January, 2014.

Ryan Robertson JUDGE, PROBATE COURT The Cleburne News Cleburne Co., AL January 16, 23, 30, 2014

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Xavier Garcia, a married man and Sherrie Garcia, a married woman, to ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., on the 22nd day of December, 2001, said mortgage recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Cleburne County, Alabama, in Mortgage Book 2002, Page

255; the undersigned CitiMortgage, Inc., successor by merger with ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., 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 Heflin, Cleburne County, Alabama, on February 24, 2014, during the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Cleburne County, Alabama, to-wit: Situated in Cleburne county, Alabama, to-wit: One acre of land located in the Southeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter (SE 1/4 of SE 1/4) of Section Thirty- six (36), Township Sixteen (16), Range Nine (9), being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the Southwest corner of the said Southeast Quarter of Southeast Quarter, thence North 1 degree East a distance of 459 feet to a point which is the point of beginning of the land herein conveyed; thence continue North 1 degree East a distance of 210 feet to a point; thence South 86 degrees 15 minutes East a distance of 210 feet to a point; thence South 1 degree West a distance of 210 feet to a point; thence North 86 degrees 15 minutes West 210 feet to the point of beginning. Situated, lying and being in Cleburne County, Alabama.

Also: A right of way being described as follows: To find the point of beginning start at the Southwest corner of the Southeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter (SE 1/4 of SE 1/4) of Section Thirty-six (36), Township Sixteen (16) South, Range Nine (9) East; thence North 1 degree East a distance of 669 feet to the point of beginning; thence continue North 1 degree East a distance of 226 feet to a point; thence South 86 degrees 15 minutes East a distance of 15 feet to a point; thence South 1 degree West a distance of 226 feet to a point; thence North 86 degrees 15 minutes West a distance of 15 feet to the point of beginning.

Situated, lying and being in Cleburne County, Alabama.

Also: A right of way being described as follows: 0.13 acre, more or less, (3300 square feet) of land for driveway located in the Southeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of Section Thirty-six (36), Township Sixteen (16), Range Nine (9), being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at the Southwest corner of the said Southeast Quarter of Southeast Quarter; thence North 1 degree East a distance of 895 feet to a point; thence North 1 degree East a distance of 220 feet to right of way of a paved county road (Horse Block Tower - Belltown Road); thence Easterly along right of way a distance of 15 feet; thence South 1 degree West a distance of 220 feet, more or less, thence West 15 feet to the point of beginning.

Property Street Address: 295 County 6 Road, Heflin, AL 36264 THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, SUBJECT TO ANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE,

EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure.

The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate.

This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation.

CitiMortgage, Inc., successor by merger with ABN AMRO Mortgage Group, Inc., Mortgagee/Transferee Rebecca Redmond SIROTE & PERMUTT, P.C. P. O. Box 55727 Birmingham, AL 35255-5727 Attorney for Mortgagee/Transferee www.sirote.com/foreclosures 211714 The Cleburne News Cleburnce Co., AL January 9, 16, 23, 2014

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE CLEBURNE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Default having occurred in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain Mortgage (“Mortgage”) executed by MATTHEW M. VAUGHN, an unmarried man, in favor of CITIZENS BANK AND TRUST OF WEST GEORGIA which subsequently merged into Columbus Bank & Trust Company and, which subsequently underwent a name change and is now known as Synovus Bank, (“Synovus”) on the 10th day of May, 2003, said Mortgage being recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Cleburne County, Alabama in Mortgage Book 2003, beginning at page 769, as modified by that certain Modification Agreement dated June 20, 2003 recorded in Mortgage Book 2008, Page 3105 in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Cleburne County, Alabama, the undersigned, Synovus Bank, the current holder of the Mortgage and successor to the original mortgagee 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 Cleburne County, Alabama, on the 24th day of January, 2014 during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate situated in Cleburne County, Alabama, to-wit: A CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED IN THE EAST HALF OF VINEYARDS LOTS NUMBERED 1003 AND 1004, ACCORDING TO A MAP AND PLAT RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK I AT PAGE 85, BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF VINEYARD LOT 1002; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 04 MINUTES 06 SECONDS EAST ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID LOT 133.45 FEET TO THE NORTHWEST RIGHT OF WAY OFLINE OF U.S. HIGHWAY 78; THENCE NORTH 60 DEGREES 07 MINUTES 13 SECONDS EAST ALONG

SAID ROW LINE A CHORD LENGTH OF 386.47 FEET; THENCE NORTH 34 DEGREES 26 MINUTES 06 SECONDS WEST 49.23 FEET; THENCE NORTH 02 DEGREES 30 MINUTES 24 SECONDS EAST 166.99 FEET; THENCE NORTH 55 DEGREES 06 MINUTES 26 SECONDS EAST 258.29 FEET TO THE EAST LINE OF SAID WEST HALF OF SAID LOTS AND THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THE HEREAFTER DESCRIBED TRACT C; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 19 MINUTES 25 SECONDS EAST ALONG SAID EAST LINE 147.48 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 47 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 26 SECONDS EAST 354.84 FEET TO THE OBSERVED RIGHT OF WAY OF DIRT ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 58 DEGREES 23 MINUTES 02 SECONDS WEST ALONG THE OBSERVED RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF CHORD LENGTH 311.95 FEET TO THE WEST LINE OF THE EAST HALF (E ½) OF VINEYARD LOTS 1003 AND 1004, IF EXTENDED; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 19 MINUTES 25 SECONDS EAST ALONG SAID WEST LINE OF EAST HALF (E 1/2) OF LOTS, 253.85 FEET TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING. SUBJECT TO ANY RIGHT OF WAY ASSIGNED TO THE POWER LINE CROSSING SAID PARCEL, AS SHOWN ON PLAT. SITUATED, LYING AND BEING IN CLEBURNE COUNTY, ALABAMA. Said property will be sold subject to all liens, encumbrances, unpaid real estate ad valorem taxes and governmental assessments and to all prior restrictions, rights-of-way, and easements of record, if any, appearing of record prior to the date of the mortgage and those appearing after the date of the Mortgage and consented to by Synovus.

The Mortgagee 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.

This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said Mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure.

Attorney for Mortgagee Travis C. Hargrove Page, Scrantom, Sprouse, Tucker & Ford., P.C. 1111 Bay Ave., Third Floor P.O. Box 1199 Columbus, GA 31902 (706) 324-0251 The Cleburne News Cleburne Co., AL January 2, 9, 16, 2014

Notice To Contractors

contractor must not exceed the amount of his or her qualification certificate.

The Entire Project Shall Be Completed In Sixty-five (65) Working Days.

A 4.00% DBE Contract Obligation Is Required.

A Bidding Proposal may be purchased for $5.00.

Plans may be purchased for $3.00 per set.

Plans and Proposals are available at the Alabama Department of Transportation, 1409 Coliseum Boulevard, Room E-108, Montgomery, AL 36110.

Checks should be made payable to the Alabama Department of Transportation. Plans and Proposals will be mailed only upon receipt of remittance.

No refunds will be made.

Minimum wage rates for this project have been pre-determined by the Secretary of Labor and are set forth in the advertised specifications.

This project is subject to the contract work hours and Safety Standards Act and its implementing regulations.

Cashier’s check or bid bond for 5% of bid (maximum $10,000.00) made payable to the Alabama Department of Transportation must accompany each bid as evidence of good faith.

The bracket range is shown only to provide general financial information to contractors and bonding companies concerning the project’s complexity and size.

This Bracket should not be used in preparing a bid, nor will this bracket have any bearing on the decision to award this contract.

The Bracket Estimate On This Project Is From $2,364,706 To $2,809,196 The proposed work shall be performed in conformity with the rules and regulations for carrying out the Federal Highway Act. Plans and Specifications are on file in Room E-108 of the Alabama Department of Transportation at Montgomery, Alabama 36110.

In accordance with the rules and regulations of The Alabama Department of Transportation, proposals will be issued only to prequalified contractors or their authorized representatives, upon requests that are received before 10 AM., on the day previous to the day of opening of bids.

The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished him or her by the Alabama Department of Transportation.

The Alabama Department of Transportation, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252, 42 U.S.C. 2000D TO 2000D-4 and Title 49 code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office of The Secretary, Part 21, nondiscrimination in federally-assisted programs of the Department of Transportation issued pursuant to such act, hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively insure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, minority business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in consideration for an award.

The right to reject any or all bids is reserved.

JOHN R. COOPER Transportation Director

Federal Aid Project No. R E C A - S T P O A HSIP-0046(504) CLEBURNE COUNTY, Alabama Sealed bids will be received by the Director of Transportation at the office of the Alabama Department of Transportation, Montgomery, Alabama until 10 AM., January 31, 2014, and at that time publicly opened for constructing the following: SAFETY WIDENING, PLANING, RESURFACING, AND TRAFFIC STRIPE ON SR-46 FROM WEST OF CR-620 (MP 10.988) TO THE GEORGIA STATE LINE (MP 21.074) The Length Of This Project Is: 10.086 Miles.

The Cleburne News The total amount of uncomplet- Cleburne Co., AL ed work under contract to a January 16, 23, & 30, 2014

Make The Classifieds Pay Off For You! 256-241-1900

The Cleburne News 256.463.2872

926 Ross Street Heflin classifieds@cleburnenews.com

Play Santa with the great gift ideas you’ll find or pile up some extra Christmas cash when you do your holiday shopping and selling in the classifieds! Call today to find out how easy it is!

Ad deadline is Monday at 5 p.m., all ads placed in The Cleburne News also goes into the Cleburne Marketplace on Monday for the same price.

Call 555-1212 today!

CLASSIFIED DEADLINES Day

Line Deadline

Display Deadline

Daily Home/Anniston Star

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Friday @ 12 Friday @ 5 pm Monday @ 5 pm Wednesday @ 12 Thursday @ 12 Thursday @ 5 pm Friday @ 10 am

Friday @ 12 Friday @ 5 pm Monday @ 5 pm Wednesday @ 12 Thursday @ 12 Thursday @ 5 pm Friday @ 10 am

Star Plus St. Clair Times Jacksonville News Piedmont Journal Cleburne News Oxford Sun

Wednesday Thursday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Friday @ 10 am Monday @ 12 Friday @ 10 am Monday @ 12 Monday @ 5 pm Thursday @ 12

Friday @ 10 am Monday @ 12 Friday @ 10 am Monday @ 12 Monday @ 5 pm Thursday @ 12 242642

Missing teen update LAURA CAMPER

news@cleburnenews.com

Although Heflin police have been joined in the search for a missing teen by a national group specializing in missing children, there are still no leads, police said Wednesday.

M a r ta Ramirez Mendez, Ramirez who has been missing since Sept. 30, is a native of Guatemala. She came to Cleburne County to live with her brother-inlaw Hector Chun and sister Alicia Mendez. The family speaks little English, Benefield said. Marta Mendez, 16, was attending Cleburne County High School when she disappeared and her family reported her missing through the school’s interpreters, he said.

Language and culture have been barrier in the investigation, Benefield said.

He believes the teen’s family doesn’t trust the Police Department and isn’t telling the officers every-

thing, he said.

“They never contacted us,” he said.

“The school contacted us. Since the beginning of this investigation, Hector nor the sister has contacted us to see, ‘Hey, what’s the status?’”

Mendez had a hearing with the Citizenship and Immigration Services in Birmingham in December which she missed, said Heflin Investigator Josh Barnett, who is investigating the case. It has been rescheduled before immigration court in Atlanta on June 24, 2015, he said.

“We don’t know if it’s the fact that she doesn’t have legal citizenship right now,” Barnett said.

But whatever is causing the barrier, it makes the investigation even harder, Benefield said.

“This has been a really tough one,” confirmed Johnny Vaughn, vice president of the Southeast Division of Bikers Urban Response Needed, a division of Center for Search and Investigations for Missing Children.

“This is one of the hardest ones we’ve had.”

The group joined the search for Mendez in December. The language barrier is the biggest problem, Vaughn said. Even though the group has Spanish-speaking members, there are many different dialects of that language, he said.

“It slows things down,” Vaughn

Subscribe TODAY

The Cleburne News, Thursday, January16, 2014 • 10

Recycle :

“Seems like they brought us to the dance and they’ve kind of left us in the corner,” Rooks said.

said. “But it’s not anything we can’t get around.”

The leads the group has received have led police to believe that Mendez is in the area, Barnett said. He and Benefield think the help is invaluable. Benefield said the members can devote all their time to finding the missing teen, while he and the other officers are working on several cases at any one time.

Vaughn said the bikers’ group currently has eight or nine members working on locating Mendez. That’s not as many as they’d like to have but they plan to keep looking until they have exhausted all their resources, he said.

Once the group is finished, usually after 90 days, the case will be taken up by another division of the center, Vaughn said, which uses equestrian searchers, truckers and search dogs.

Marta Ramirez Mendez was last seen Sept. 30 about 4:20 a.m. at her home on U.S. 431 in the Hollis Crossroads area. She is 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighs about 110 pounds.

She has brown eyes and black hair.

Anyone with information about Mendez is asked to call the Heflin police at 256-463-2291. Anyone who sees Mendez should call 911.

Staff Writer Laura Camper 256463-2872. On Twitter @LCamper_ Star.

From page 1

tinue its recycling program, he said Wednesday.

David West, Calhoun County Extension coordinator, said the partnership with Heflin began with a grant from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management.

The extension office used the money to purchase the trailers which Heflin uses to collect its recycling. There is no other cost to the program, West said.

The county had shut down the Recycling Center on Bynum Leatherwood Road during November and December to pave the parking lot, which was just a gravel lot, and to do some work on the Agri-Center building next door, West said. In addition, the office had to do some hiring, he added.

“We’ve repaved everything out there and we’re also getting new staff in,” West said.

He said normal operations should begin again within the next week or two.

Still, West said he’s unsure why the city wouldn’t have been able to drop off the trailer and swap it for an empty one.

“The only thing we haven’t been doing is separating,” West said. “Temporarily we had one of our recyclers taking it in and separating it for us.”

Meanwhile Heflin’s recyclables continue to pile up.

Besides the two completely full trailers, the city has 10 of the big blue trash cans waiting to go to the county’s recycling center, Yancy said.

Jennifer Yates, outreach sustainability coordinator for the extension office said Wednesday afternoon she has spoken with Rooks and Yancy and they are going to provide Heflin another bin on Friday and the city will be able to take their items to the recycling center early next week.

“Maybe they’ll come get us out of the corner and ask us to dance,” Rooks said.

Staff writer Laura Camper 256-463-2872. On Twitter @LCamper_Star.

The Cleburne News

12 mo in Cleburne County .. $22.00 6 mo in Cleburne County .....$13.00 12 mo out of County .............$36.00 6 mo out of County ...............$21.00

256.463.2872

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, YOU'VE SPENT A LOT!

BENTON NISSAN WANTS YOU TO

SAVE A LOT! WE'LL MAKE YOUR NEW NISSAN MONTHLY PAYMENT LESS THAN IT CURRENTLY IS OR

EvERY NEW ANd PRE-OWNEd BENTON NISSAN COMES WITH A

10 YEAR/120,000 MILE POWERTRAIN WARRANTY

GIVE YOU 500! $

See Dealer For Details.

GET YOUR vEHICLE SERvICEd

ANYWHERE

NEW 2014 VERSA SEDANS AS LOW AS

11,988

$

ONE OR MORE AT THIS PRICE. Vin#837346. Model#11154

% 100 GUARANTEED CREDIT APPROVAL!

NEW 2014 ALTIMAS AS LOW AS

17,988

$

ONE OR MORE AT THIS PRICE. Vin#161172. Mdl#13014

Where You've Got a Friend in the Car Business!

1834 HWY 78 EAST • OXFORD, AL 36203 NEXT TO LOWES ON HWY 78

OWNER

Lower Payment/$500: In stock models only. Dealer wil provide $500 if purchase vehicle payment is higher than trade in payment. 2008 and older do not qualify. Negative equity is responsibility of customer and not included in this offer. Negative equity may affect new payment amount. Down payment or trade equity may be required. Based on Altima S STK#14176.

Versa Manual Sedan Stk#14161. Discount off retail price, $14,869. Dealership discount $2881. Plus tax, title, license and doc fees. Dealer retains all factory rebates and incentives.

Guaranteed financing requires certain amount of cash down, proof of income, proof of residence. Warranty: Service not required at dealership. Valid with proof of Nissan Recommended service maintenance records. All offers with approved credit. Not all wil qualify. Vehicles subject to prior sale. Pictures for il ustration purposes only. See dealer for details.

78 4

FRONTERA BAR & GRILL

MELLOW MUSHROOM

INTERSTATE

20

OP

S LO

DAVI

INTERSTATE

20

MORGAN RD.

Dale Benton

COLEMAN RD.

1-800-639-6328

CALL: CLICK: BentonNissan.com