Familiar faces announces election intentions
Chamber holds luncheon welcoming members
By Cliff Williams Staff Writer
The Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce held its annual luncheon to install new officers and board members for the first time in a while Thursday.
The COVID-19 pandemic put a hamper on gath erings but the chamber celebrated the successes of business in Wetumpka.
“We haven’t been able to do this for the last couple years,” chairperson Clay McConnell said. “Your attendance is an indication people want to get back together and have
Millbrook temporarily stops new convenience stores, vape shops
By CLIFF WILIAMS News Editor
Those looking to purchase vape products in Elmore County will soon see changes.
Some municipalities are in various states of declaring a temporary moratorium on new vape shops. And Gov. Kay Ivey recently signed a bill limiting where many of the products can be sold.
Millbrook Mayor Al Kelley said. “We need to possibly stop it before it gets bigger.” Kelley said two to three stores in this class have recently been approved by Millbrook planning and the council and will be allowed to continue to open.
By CLIFF WILIAMS News Editor
Wetumpka native Frank Bertarelli plans to be on the August ballot for Wetumpka City Council District 1. The businessman and developer said he is proud of the progress Wetumpka has
At last Tuesday’s Millbrook City Council meeting, leaders approved a one year moratorium on convenience stores, vapes shops, gas stations and package stores in the corporate limits and police jurisdiction of the City of Millbrook. It follows similar moratoriums in the cities of Prattville and Pike Road.
“This moratorium is for new proposals,” Kelley said. “I have nothing against convenience stores. I stop at them on a regular basis. It’s the vape products and the way they are being marketed. That is what I’m concerned about.”
The Millbrook moratorium gives city leaders a chance to complete studies already in progress of the development of downtown along Main Street and around Village Green.
The Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals (AASSP) named Holtville High School principal Kyle Futral the 2022 Alabama High School Principal of the Year.
“It got me to thinking, ‘If those cities are pushing them away, they might look this way,’”
“We have three or four here now,” Kelley said. “We don’t want
TWINNING
By CLIFF WILIAMS News Editor
and
“Kyle Futral is an exceptional principal and is very proactive and innovative in his thinking and approaches to managing his school,” Dennis said, As principal of Holtville High School, Futral has transformed
The High School Principal of the Year award was presented to Futral on Friday, Jan. 28 during a schoolwide assembly at Holtville High School. Elmore County Superintendent Richard Dennis was in attendance for the presentation.
the school culture from that of a school struggling with low morale, achievement and attendance to a school that strives for excellence. By collaborating with staff, many of the school’s issues were identified and addressed. Futral’s leadership style of listening, encouraging, supporting, organizing and challenging the staff and students, caused the school culture to shift in a positive direction. The school experienced a 62 percent decrease in discipline referrals,
See PRINCIPAL, Page A3
Attendance, test scores up in Elmore County, Tallassee schools
By CLIFF WILIAMS News Editor
Simply being at school leads to better student performance and education.
At least that’s the case in Elmore County and Tallassee schools where administrators and teachers have been working for the last few years to battle chronic absen-
teeism and truancy. Elmore County and Tallassee City schools have seen more than 20% of students classified as chronically absent meaning they had missed 18 school days or more. That is 10% of the school year. Elmore County Schools superintendent Richard Dennis likens it to adults missing parts of
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI
Police Reports
WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT
MAY 15
• Holly Jurkiewiz, 44, of Tallassee, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.
MAY 14
• Jericho Hall, 29, of Eclectic, was arrested for eight counts of failure to appear.
MAY 13
• Joseph Holman, 48, of Wetumpka, was arrested for public intoxication.
• Dusty Parker, 46, of
Eclectic, was arrested for failure to appear.
MAY 12
• Harassment was reported in Autumnwood Village.
MAY 10
• K.C. Dotson, 27, of Prattville, was arrested for failure to appear.
• Ronald Hamm, 41, of Montgomery, was arrested for five counts of failure to appear.
MAY 9
• Timothy Ellison, 34, of Clanton, was arrested for two counts of failure to appear.
• Rhajah Jones, 28, of Wetumpka, was arrested for three counts of failure to appear.
• Michael Young Jr., 25, of Coosada, was arrested for failure to appear.
• Daren Wilson Jr., 32, of Ozark, was arrested for driving under the influence and resisting arrest.
• Charles Barnes, 25, of Ozark, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana.
• Hayley Thornal, 25, of Titus, was arrested for
driving under the influence.
• Theft and fraudulent use of a credit or debit card was reported on U.S. Highway 231.
• Theft was reported on Wilson Street.
MAY 8
• Brandy Johnson, 45,of Montgomery, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana.
• Davontay Smith, 45, of Montgomery, was arrested for 37 counts of failure to appear.
Traditions abound for Holtville graduates
By CLIFF WILIAMS News Editor
After months in the making, the artificial turf at Boyd-Chapman Field has finally seen some activity.
The Holtville High School Class of 2025 graduates walked the field Thursday night as part of the 100th class to receive diplomas from the school.
But the history of Holtville is more than just a century in the making as Holtville schools date back almost two centuries — always within a half mile of the current school that opened in 1928.
Class of 2025 president and salutatorian Victoria Bullock noted being the 100th graduating class from Holtville and the first on the new field isn’t just a milestone.
reminder that we are a part of something bigger than ourselves. We’ve inherited the spirit of generations who came before us, those who built this school lived through wars, social change, economic hardship and progress.”
The last several classes have numbered nearly 150. And although this year’s class was a little more than 100, school officials expect future graduating classes to be 150 or more.
Bullock said the Class of 2025 shouldn’t let its size diminish what it has accomplished and will in the future as graduates move forward into life in the military, college or the workforce. They will always be a part of the school and the community that surrounds it.
I
“We are a part of a legacy,” Bullock said. “More importantly, we are also shaping its future. It all is a
TWINNING
Continued from A1
“We are connected to something meaningful, something lasting,” Bullock said. “We get the utmost privilege to carry the legacy forward.”
Bullock noted life will not always go as planned.
because we’ve learned not just facts and formulas, but how to be human, how to lead, how to listen and how to rise.” IF YOU HAD AN ACCOUNT
“There’ll be twists, turns and surprises,” Bullock said. “I know we’re ready
in 1957. Eventually, the twins’ parents moved back to Holtville.
“They loved the community,” Sydney said. “They wanted to raise us here.”
University to pursue a degree in music education and Michelle is going to Auburn University to major in business.
Though they finish each other’s sentences, no telepathy will be needed.
“She is just a phone call away,” Michelle said. “We think it will be fun.”
It won’t be the first time the twins have been apart though.
“We have been to separate summer camps for weeks at a time,” Sydney said.
The twins are just part of the legacy of Holtville High School. Their great grandfather graduated from the school in 1929 and their grandfather
As toddlers and elementary school students Michelle and Sydney were very difficult to tell apart. They wore the same clothing and did the same things. In middle school the twins went down separate paths but still remained close. High school brought them into the same classrooms for many things such as AP chemistry and AP calculus, where their grades were indistinguishable.
A friendly competition evolved, but mostly, the twins remained committed to help each other, studying together constantly. Ultimately, Michelle has a .02 higher GPA than Sydney — only because of an elective class Sydney took that didn’t
count toward the valedictorian race. Even when discussing the valedictorian honor, the two couldn’t help but finish each other’s sentences.
“We’ve both wanted it for a long time,” Sydney started and Michelle finished. “We knew it was going to be close, because we’ve taken, like, basically almost all the classes,” Michelle started and Sydney finished. “But we were just very excited for each other. We were gonna be happy for each other no matter who got it. But this is just incredible being able to share it.”
Thursday night Michelle and Sydney dressed alike again in the white cap and gown for Holtville High School’s graduation. The difference being Sydney wore white flats and Michelle white heels. Or was it the other way around?
Ivy Creek celebrates Hospital Week
Scholarship winner finds art again in high school
By CLIFF WILIAMS News Editor
Like many children, Johnna Beth Sims played with paints and other art materials when she was young. She liked the freedom of expression.
But like so many, she moved away from art when she started getting older and peer pressure started becoming an issue.
“Growing up, I was known as the creative kid whether it was creating magical worlds in my backyard, crafting houses for my silly little paper animals or drawing roads on scrolls of paper for my Hot Wheels,” Sims said.
“I was always up to something. Naturally when kids grow up, a lot of that magic and vibrancy is dulled. We started becoming concerned about what others might think of us and hide away our big personalities and interests in hopes of fitting in.”
The transition to academics happened as Sims started middle school.
“I felt that I needed to change myself in order to be liked,” Sims said.
“Slowly, I somehow became a quiet, anxious, smart kid everyone turned to for homework answers. How did that happen?
Where did the dramatic and joyful little girl go?”
When Sims got to Wetumpka High School, she said it was terrifying. There were so many students doing different things. But she found her safe space in Adriane Duvall’s art class.
“She welcomed me with open arms and the warmest smile,” Sims said. “I found myself returning to her room. I slowly just started to rediscover that confident and creative little girl again.”
Sims said Duvall created a space she could express herself through art without fear or judgment.
“Art has blessed me with the most amazing community of people and lifelong friendships that I would not trade for anything,” Sims said.
The Titus resident also found another artist across the slough from her on Lake Jordan — Kathy
Atchison. Sims travels to Atchison’s studio about two to three times per month. The pair share a special bond. Sims has learned new pastel techniques from Atchison.
“It is different from what I taught her,” Duvall said. “It’s unique and special to them.”
Although Atchison is one of Sims’ mentors, Atchison feels she is in special company with Sims.
“I think I get more out of her visits to my studio than she did,” Atchison said.
Sims won Best in Show at the Elmore County Schools Art Show at The Kelly Fitzpatrick Center for the Art. She was also awarded the Sylvia McConnell Scholarship from The Kelly, which is named after a founding board member.
Sims thought she might go into engineering but a trip with her father to Auburn University changed that. The father-daughter duo visited the school’s Industrial Design program, where Sims found a home to
satisfy both her art and academic loves.
“I’ve always been driven to make, like, a positive impact on the world,” Sims said. “I thought that the best way to do that was with my skills in engineering. Then I came to a realization I would never be able to leave art. I ended up falling in love with Industrial Design, seeing all their projects and everything, and seeing how me using engineering and art mixed together can still have that positive impact.”
Table settings attract visitors from 18 states
By CLIFF WILIAMS News Editor
For four years May Eason and her friends have filled the Wetumpka Civic Center with their Beautiful Table Settings Bash. This year more than 300 guests and presenters drove and flew from Connecticut, Arizona and Oklahoma to be a part of the three days of fun surrounding fine China, silverware and table settings.
“These are all my friends,” Eason said. “For many of us, this is our first time meeting in person. They are all a part of the Beautiful Table Settings Facebook group.”
In January the group had more than 263,000 followers, but Eason said Facebook stopped keeping count. Two years ago there were only 163,000 followers
“It just keeps growing,” Eason said.
WILLIAMS
The Wetumpka resident has organized six of the ‘Bashes’ now, four in Wetumpka and two in Vicksburg, Mississippi.
“In Vicksburg we do it in January,” Eason said. “My friend who helps organize that one wants to do it when not much is going on to put heads in beds.”
This time in Wetumpka, attendees got to visit Eason’s home, ‘She Shed’ and gardens.
Members of the group even suggested a presenter — Christopher Norwood, a flower arranger from Little Rock Arkansas. He drove 10 hours to present Thursday only to turn around to get back home Thursday night.
“I have two weddings this weekend,” Norwood said.
Prior to this show, Eason didn’t know Norwood.
“Everyone knew him from his videos,” Eason said. “He started around COVID and just built a following.”
From the stage of the civic center, Norwood built arrangements using greenery from blueberries, horseradish and pears. They provide the fill for large floral arrangements. But Norwood doesn’t necessarily go in with a complete idea of how the arrangement will look.
“I just let the flower talk to me,” Norwood said. “I follow the lead of the plants.” Eason loves seeing all of her friends. They come to hear the presenters, see if they can fill gaps in collections from vendors, trade with each other and more.
“It’s all fun for me,” Eason said. “I say that with exhaustion after each one of these, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
SUBMITTED TPI
There are a few signs to look for when it comes to identifying possible cancerous spots.
Medical professionals recognize Skin Cancer Awareness Month
By ABIGAIL MURPHY Multimedia Reporter
Skin cancer is no joking matter, but the good news is it can be fairly preventable.
Russell Medical Cancer Center director George Miranda cautions that while squamous and basal cell cancers are largely treatable, melanoma is very dangerous. Melanoma doesn’t take long or doesn’t have to be very
big before it becomes deadly because it moves into the lymphatic tissue. Another tricky thing about it is it can develop in areas where the sun rarely reaches.
In the case of melanoma, it’s important to do self-examinations and get a regular skin check. Skin checks can be done through most primary care offices and if there are enough
See CANCER, Page A5
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI
Wetumpka High School graduating senior Johnna Beth Sims was awarded the Sylvia McConnell Scholarship from The Kelly Fitzpatrick Center for the Arts, which is named after a founding board member.
CLIFF
| TPI
Flower arranger Christopher Norwood, from Arkansas, gives a demonstration on using commonly found greenery in flower bouquets. He used blueberry, horseradish and more.
Appreciate teachers and nurses all year
This week, nurses and teachers are celebrated all around the country. Even though these professions are admired all week long, shouldn’t they be admired all the time?
Nurses are the backbone of healthcare – they administer life-saving medications, perform under extreme pressure at times and, most of all, ensure patients’ comfort in a time of need. Many nurses work 12 hour shifts, sunup to sundown, or the opposite.
While nurses sometimes see miracles happen, they also witness families on the worst days of their lives. No matter what is happening in their personal life, a nurse’s responsibility is to assist a patient to the best of their ability. They must put their own struggles to the side to help strangers with theirs.
Nurses deserve to be appreciated all the time.
Teachers are the foundation of the future – without them, the future generation would not have the structure to succeed in this world. While teachers are responsible for helping students achieve good grades, they are also responsible for so much more.
Teachers spend time away from their own children to take care of their students. In the event of an emergency, teachers are responsible to keep their entire class safe.
Even when the school day is over, teachers must prepare lesson plans for the next day.
Although teachers are given a curriculum to follow, they must find ways to make the information comprehensible for students with different learning styles.
They must provide adequate school supplies and other important materials – even if it’s out of their own pocket.
Teachers build success. If it weren’t for teachers’ dedication, many people wouldn’t experience the success they do.
While this week is dedicated to praising teachers and nurses, be sure to show your thanks all year long.
We’d like to share your thoughts and opinions with the community for free. You may submit one letter to the editor per month (300 words or less) and/or a guest column (500 words or less). Include name, address and phone number. We reserve the right to refuse any submissions. Mail: Your View, The Wetumpka Herald 127 Company Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092 E-mail: editorelmore@thewetumpkaherald.com
Obituaries: 35 cents per word with a $25 charge for picture per paper (Herald, Observer, Tribune). Obituaries are only accepted via the funeral home in charge of arrangements. We do not accept obituaries from individuals. Weddings, Engagements, Anniversaries, or Birth
Announcements: These significant family events or milestones are 35 cents per word and $25 for a photo and must be emailed to us at announcements@thewetumpkaherald.com.
We reserve the right to refuse to print any advertisement, news story, photograph or any other material submitted to us for any reason or no reason at all.
The publisher reserves the right to change subscription rates during the term of subscription with a 30-day notice. The notice can be mailed to the subscriber, or by notice in the newspaper itself. To subscribe or if you missed your paper, call Baily Terry or Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.
The Wetumpka Herald is contract printed each Tuesday evening in Alexander City by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. 256-234-4281
Milestones are meant to be celebrated.
Whether they are simple or complex, every milestone has some sort of meaning.
This season of the year is full of milestone celebrations. From kindergarten graduations to receiving a diploma from Central Alabama Community College, we’ve been a part of so many of those.
I went to my nephew’s kindergarten graduation earlier this week at Dadeville Elementary School. Kindergarten graduation may not seem all that important. It’s just a ceremony after all. But for those kids, it’s the biggest thing they’ve ever done. It’s moving from being a newbie at school to being a seasoned first-grade veteran, and it’s an important step in growing up. Each student got a chance to say what he or she wanted to be when they grew up. From the more standard answers like firefighter or teacher to the off-the-wall options like Miss Ala-
to senior
bama or a spaceman YouTuber, these kids have their whole worlds ahead of them. And high school graduation is much the same. Although they don’t get to talk about what they want to be when they grow up or get a chance to speak at the microphone, each one of those seniors has a story to tell. Each one is going on to do something great in his or her own way.
Just like those kindergarteners who still want to be ballerinas, seniors across the tri-county area are forging their paths in life. Whether it be going on to higher education or trade school or getting straight into the workforce or military, there are some huge things that await.
ant to remember during these times of year. Being an adult has its pos itives, to be sure. You can eat ice cream before dinner and you don’t have a curfew. an adult is for the birds. Be a kid as long as you can be. Everyone waits and waits to get to high school graduation, anxious for what the real world presents. But there’s something truly special about reveling in the moment. can get
One year ago this week, I was saying goodbye to a 28-year career as a public school music teacher.
If you really want to get technical about it, it was more like a 45-year career in education: getting up, going to school, moving whenever a bell rings, from kindergarten until the last day of the twenty-eighth year of service. Some would call it being institutionalized, but I rather enjoyed the rhythms of the daily schedule. I knew as I walked out the doors of Tallassee High School that I would miss that part of it, and certainly the pomp and pageantry of small-town high school life. I also knew I’d never enjoy lunchroom delicacies like the crispito ever again.
An offer to come talk to Faulkner University was made last year by Joey Wiginton, a Tallassee resident, businessman and mayoral candidate today but for 39 years a member of the administrative team at Faulkner.
Wiginton got me talking with various department heads at Faulkner, including Dr. Art Williams, who is the Chairman of the Fine Arts Department. Dr. Art and I go way back, nearly 35 years, to our time as students at Troy University. Art was our Drum Major, and I served as Band Captain, for the “Sound of the South” band program under legendary bandmaster Dr. Johnny Long. Faulkner University made an offer. They wanted to hire me as an admissions recruiter dedicated to building up the band program at the University. The opportunity was exciting – after all, I had spent nearly my entire career watching local
legends like Jerry Cunningham and Robby Glasscock building the music empire at Tallassee. There is no other 4-A school in the state of Alabama with anything close to what Tallassee enjoys when it comes to choir and band. And yet, I was ready for a new challenge at this stage of life, and Faulkner came through with a change of scenery.
Beginning in July of 2024, I crisscrossed the state spreading the word about our $16,000 band scholarship, which is 70% off the price of tuition. This is the best music scholarship in the southeast, without a doubt. Over the course of the past ten months, I have visited 54 high school campuses in our state and have served as a clinician, adjudicator, and guest speaker at dozens of them. Along with the 54 high schools, I have also shown up for college fairs, career nights, band competitions, conventions, music festivals, and everything in between, all the while campaigning for Faulkner.
We began the year with 17 band members, and as of the last week of school we have gotten 47 students to sign the dotted line and become members of the 2025 Faulkner Band – which will bring us above 60 members for the first time since before Covid, while also more than tripling the size of the band. My point in discussing this is not
One year on the outside
to brag on this achievement. Rather, I want to express how much my spirit has been lifted by the exposure to all these other students and band directors, and how they have allowed me to observe their band rooms over the course of this year. I have heard many new rehearsal techniques worth implementing, and listened to bands both large and small beautifully performing quality literature.
I have visited schools in which the band is so important, the entrance to the building has portraits not of the principals who have served there but of the band directors. Conversely, I have visited school bands playing in a disused classroom because their school never saw fit to build a band room. Everywhere I have been, I have looked back in astonishment that I was ever fortunate enough to have served at Tallassee, a place where music has had such importance. It was a real honor to have served there for so long and to now be mentioned among those who spent many years as a part of the program. Having said that, I am now at a University where we offer over 60 degree programs and with a student body that is growing with every passing year, and can see that we have the opportunity to grow this music program in a major way via these outstanding scholarships. So, if you or someone you love wants to continue playing in the band, please have them email mbird@faulkner.edu or visit myfaulkner.org!
Michael Bird is a music teacher (and recruiter!) for Faulkner University.
MICHAEL BIRD Columnist
Edgewood celebrates Class of 2025
they decided to pursue a
signs, the primary care physician may refer individuals to a dermatologist.
Some things to look out for during a self-examination for any skin cancer are moles that are asymmetrical, a ragged border, discoloration, a large diameter and if the spot is evolving.
Continued from A1
“Everybody has moles and spots or splotches,” Miranda said. “But if you notice anything that’s different, that’s grown, that maybe has become three dimensional, that maybe scabs up or bleeds.”
If you have any concerns, Miranda said, seek medical advice; it may be nothing but it’s best to get it checked just in case.
Meanwhile, basal and squamous are less dan -
The
gerous but can spread if not treated. These skin cancer types are generally a by-product of too much sun exposure over time. Miranda said this is why sunscreen is so important, especially if you are at the beach or lake where you need to also reapply often.
Some other tools that help are wearing hats to protect the top of your head and cover up where you can. Squamous and basal
anything new like that until we figure out what our downtown will look like through zoning and such. We don’t want a bunch of them down here.” City of Wetumpka leaders are also considering a similar moratorium.
Continued from A1
community leader, Lewis brings a wealth of legal experience, a proven record of service and deep roots in Elmore County to the bench.
A graduate of Wetumpka High School, Lewis earned her bachelor’s degree magna cum laude from The University of Alabama in 2011 and received her Juris Doctor from the Thomas Goode Jones School of Law at Faulkner University in 2014. She began her legal career
Continued from A1
made but needs new blood to begin transitioning into leadership. “I commend this administration because they’ve done a fine job pushing things forward that needed to go forward,” Bertarelli said. “If this administration
cancers often show up on people’s shoulders, neck, top of the head and hands — common places that see sun exposure.
One of the big misconceptions is skin cancer affects only light skin individuals. While having fair skin can put someone at a higher risk, skin cancer still happens to Black people — including melanoma. Another high-risk factor can be dysplastic nevus,
Ivey recently signed House Bill 8, which covers legal issues surrounding hemp products and greatly governs vape products. Starting June 1, convenience stores throughout Alabama will
as a prosecutor for the 19th Judicial Circuit under District Attorney Randall V. Houston before establishing her private practice, the Lewis Law Firm, PC, in Wetumpka. Her legal work spans a broad range of areas including criminal and civil matters, juvenile advocacy and federal litigation in the Alabama Middle District Court.
In addition to her legal career, Lewis has served Elmore County as an elected county commissioner since 2020, recently beginning her second term. As the youngest person ever elected to the Elmore County Commission, she has
stays in another term, what happens if they all leave at the same time? Who’s ready to take the reins?”
Bertarelli is proud of Wetumpka’s new growth but believes the town has lost some of its old growth establishments.
Bertarelli said you can look at Skate Zone’s success and how the ball fields are full.
“We can do more,” Bertarelli said. “We’re an entertainment
which are atypical moles.
Minarda said this isn’t to make anyone panic, but it’s to keep people informed so they can get diagnosis and treatment.
“I don’t really want to say that skin cancer is not a big deal, because it is a big deal,” Miranda said. “But it’s not the end. I tell everybody with cancer, just because you get diagnosed with cancer,
only be allowed to sell just 34 tobacco and menthol-flavored e-cigarette products approved by the FDA. All other flavors, including those currently under review by the FDA, will be
been a champion for quality-of-life initiatives and fiscally responsible solutions that strengthen local communities.
“I’m running for District Judge because I care deeply about the people of Elmore County,” Lewis said. “My experience in the courtroom, combined with my work as a commissioner and community leader, has given me a well-rounded perspective on the issues our families face. I believe in fair, impartial and accessible justice for all.”
Lewis made history as the first municipal court judge for the Town of Coosada and continues to serve in numerous civic
district downtown, but we don’t have the entertainment for the youth. I would like to see us and go out and search and seek some more development for our youth here.”
Bertarelli has roots in the community. His children went to school in Wetumpka and he has a daughter and granddaughter living in the community. He wants to bring his knowledge of business development to the council.
doesn’t mean you’re going to die.”
Survivor rates with cancers in general have been rising. Miranda said when he started in the 1990s it was probably a 50% survivability rate in general and now it looks more like 68%.
As part of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, remember to wear sunscreen, cover up when you can, do self-examations and get a regular skin check.
banned from sale except in age-restricted vape shops where only those 21 and over can enter. It also leaves open their sale in package stores where those under 21 cannot enter.
and leadership roles across the region. She was appointed by Gov. Kay Ivey to the Alabama Local Government Training Institute in 2022 and currently chairs both the Elmore County Mental Health Task Force and the Health Care Task Force.
Her dedication to service extends into her personal life. Lewis is a lifelong member of the Liberty Hill Missionary Baptist Church, where she serves as secretary and sings in the choir. She and her husband, Regis Jackson, reside in Wetumpka with their three children, Raelyn, Riley and Brayden.
“We have been successful in business,” Bertarelli said. “As a developer, we have partnered with others to help bring other businesses to Wetumpka. We have also built several homes as well.” Bertarelli retired from law enforcement but is still a reserve Elmore County Sheriff Deputy. He is also on the board of the Wetumpka YMCA. He is
an Alcazar Shriner and member of the Wetumpka Lions Club. He has run for the council in the past.
“I lost because I didn’t see eye to eye with some of the administration around here,” Bertarelli said. “It’s because I’m transparent and I got common sense politics. I got an open door policy. That’s what I think our city government needs.”
PHOTOS BY SAMUEL HIGGS TPI
A crowd flocked to celebrate the Edgewood Academy Class of 2025 for the school graduation ceremony this past Thursday. Headmaster, Susan Barner, went one-by-one announcing the scholarship money rewarded to the graduating seniors; which came to a total of $2,623,000 spanning across the 30 students. Salutatorian Elizabeth Ellis was the first to address the crowd, discussing all the memories she made throughout her time as a Wildcat.
following was Valedictorian, John Kujala, who inspired his fellow graduating class to go off and do great things wherever
higher education. The Edgewood graduates then received their diplomas, off to new adventures following their time in high school.
BERTARELLI
LEWIS
VAPE
a movie.
“You don’t get there on time and then you decide you need to go stand in line to buy drinks and popcorn,” Dennis said. “You get the big, huge drink and the popcorn. Finally, you get in the theater, the movie is going. Of course, the drink is huge and then you have to go to the bathroom.”
Dennis said movie goers then miss significant portions by being tardy and in the middle by being absent. It’s easy to miss 15 to 20 minutes of a two hour movie.
“If you weren’t there the whole time, you’re going to miss those elements of the movie that perhaps are crucial to understand what took place,” Dennis said.
Dennis suggested those who were absent would not do well at recounting or comprehending what happened in the movie. He said it is very similar in schools. He saw it play out as a principal at Holtville, Wetumpka and Prattville high schools.
“The students who were absent on a regular basis were the ones who were on the failure list at the end of the school year,” Dennis said. “It’s not rocket science. If you’re there and engaged, you’re going to be successful and pass.”
Chronic absenteeism includes both excused and unexcused absences. Truancy deals with the unexcused absences and Alabama law allows the courts to step in with seven or more unexcused absences through the compulsory attendance law.
Elmore County District Court Judge Ben Baxley has been on the bench for about a year. He has been a prosecutor in federal and state courts. Most recently he was with the Alabama Attorney General’s Office. He has seen how a lack of education increases a person’s odds of
being involved in criminal activity. His wife Nacole has been a teacher for her entire career and shared with him the need for something to be done.
Baxley reached out to Elmore County and Tallassee City schools to start an early warning truancy program.
“Parents are invited to court to discuss their child’s absences at five unexcused absences,” Baxley said. “Previously parents were not invited until the seventh unexcused absence when it was then illegal in the state.”
Parents are given the information surrounding state law and allowed to connect with agencies that aid in helping both parents and students succeed in school and life.
The program was executed with the help of administrators at both Elmore County and Tallassee City schools, juvenile probation officers and the Elmore County Commission.
In the last school year, nearly 2,200 students and their parents came before Baxley as part of the early warning program. At the same time administrators and the courts held parents accountable for their child’s school attendance.
In Elmore County Schools, truancy petitions increased from 30 in the 2023-2024 school year to 126 in the 2024 school year. Parental responsibility warrants went from zero to 16. Of those, four parents were sentenced to time in jail for their children being truant.
Baxley shared the story of one such parent and student who turned things around in just one year. The student and parent were in Baxley’s courtroom in July 2024.
“It wasn’t their first rodeo system for being placed on probation for not complying with the compulsory attendance law,” Baxley said.
The mother spent time in the Elmore County Jail. Baxley had juvenile court probation officers monitor the situation. When August and the start of school came, the student was in school to begin the school year. By the end of September, the student still hadn’t missed a day.
“Before that hearing in July, she had missed so many days the previous year she had been held back a year,” Baxley said. “She was no longer with her contemporaries.”
Everyone kept tabs on the student and her progress. November came and went and the student still hadn’t missed any school. But it wasn’t just attendance.
“She’s making good grades — not just good grades, great grades,” Baxley said. “She’s a straight A student. She’s a varsity athlete. And not only that, but she has made such strides that she was taking double classes to make up the time that she lost and so she’s on course to get back with her contemporaries.”
But schools have done more than just fight truancy. They have been battling chronic absenteeism with success. It is one component of the Alabama Schools Report Card. Schools started sending notices to parents about their students being late or absent from school.
They started offering incentives to students such as game days, one of which was held Monday at Southside Middle School in Tallassee. Students who helped improve the absenteeism rate were invited to play.
“We’re celebrating our students who have managed to not reach that point of becoming chronically absent,” Southside Middle School principal Brittany Spencer said. “This year, we are at a record low and I’m so proud of our community and so very proud of our school, our teachers, our students and all of our families.”
Thanks to funding from grants and officials such as state representative Troy Stubbs, Spencer and her staff were able to bring in a company with enough screens and gaming consoles to allow entire grades to play without waiting to take turns.
“I knew we were going to do the games,” Spencer said. “It was just a matter of how many. It was amazing to see their reaction walking into the gym and seeing all the options.”
Spencer said only 19 of the school’s 406 students were chronically absent this year. Those 19 didn’t get to participate. It’s an improvement from last year’s 50 and 121 students who were chronically absent in 2023.
“This year we have been making a big push for improvement,” Spencer said. “We have had conferences with students about attendance. We have been advising them where they are. We have a board at the front of the school that gives the number of how many students are considered chronically absent. It puts the information in front of the students.”
Currently much of the data behind the Alabama Schools Report Card is embargoed until late fall.
But administrators have seen portions of it. According to school officials, in Tallassee chronic absenteeism has improved 30.4% from last school year. The number of students with zero unexcused absences has improved 59.1%.
In Elmore County Schools chronic absenteeism has improved 35.3% and it is reported 63% of students have no absence issues, a 43.2% increase.
Elmore County Schools is reporting an increase in test scores used in the report card. On juniors taking the ACT this spring, the score rose by 1 point across the board.
“That is a remarkable improvement,” Dennis said. Baxley has also worked
with school officials and law enforcement to make schools safer. Multiple threats in Elmore County and Tallassee schools have occurred over the past school year.
“Several of those have been given time in juvenile detention,” Baxley said. “We have to have safe school environments.”
To aid in the effort, Baxley went to the Elmore County Commission to get additional funding for more juvenile detention beds.
Schools and courts are also cognizant of mental health issues with students. They have partnered with the Elmore County Family Resource Center to provide additional counseling and connecting with other partners to meet students’ needs.
Executive director Chrissy Boshell said the center has partnered to provide additional mental health counseling but is also working with parents on issues outside of school.
“It is just really educating them on what we can do,” Boshell said. “It might be helping parents learn to get their children up and get them to school. We might aid in transportation. We might aid in hygiene and clothing so students avoid the stigma. We help parents and students with building soft skills and those life skills such as budgeting. We can help parents connect with jobs as well.” It is unknown how the improvements in attendance, grades and scores will affect the careers and lives of current students.
But 19th Judicial Circuit District Attorney C.J. Robinson already knows the effects of education on crime in general. Defendants who have dropped out of school, gotten a GED or had low grades due to attendance are often caught up in criminal courts more so than those who regularly attended school.
“We typically don’t see the data until sentencing,” Robinson said. “It’s an astronomical correlation though, not 100% but extremely high. But in almost every case, when you see what happened on the education end with absences and dropping out. They find themselves more likely to be involved in criminal acts and sentenced.”
Everyone is pleased with the results just one year into the early truancy warning program. It brought together partners that have been in the community for years. Now, the partners don’t want to stop the momentum the effects are having on attendance, grades and overall student well being.
“We’ve been working on making sure that we work on our lines of communication to our parents,” Dennis said. “We’re going to continue this because we understand this is a serious issue. We will not turn our heads and just ignore the situation. It will be pursued.”
Complex does not mean complicated
The word of God does not.
Greetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge! It is a lovely day in the neighborhood as I write this column. We have certainly enjoyed more spring like weather this year that usual.
About a year ago, I was asked to share some time in ministry with sisters and brothers at First Presbyterian Church of Alexander City. Their pastor had to retire a bit earlier than planned due to health issues. They needed someone to moderate their Session (board of Elders) and guide their committee searching for a new pastor.
forces of supply and demand regulate production, prices, and labor, allowing businesses to make decision about what to produce and at what price.
The textile industry’s near disappearance from our nation’s economy has been credited to several sources. Labor unions, profit driven business owners, customers demanding less expensive products, and lack of willing workers, etc. all got the blame. Each of those plays a part in the demise, and that fact simply cannot be denied.
Free market capitalism is defined as an economic system characterized by private ownership of the means of production, minimal government intervention, and voluntary exchange. In this system, the
One thread in the narrative of First Presbyterian of Alexander City relates to being a mill town in the twenty first century. Simply put, mill towns in our nation are struggling and have been for a few decades. This is especially true in the south. In a nutshell, the textile industry was once quite prominent and prosperous in our country. Beginning around 1990, “economic challenges” gave rise to the death of the industry. Those challenges have individual names, but they are all byproducts of free market capitalism.
At the same time, focusing responsibility on one category over another is inaccurate. Each of the sources mentioned are a natural byproduct of free market capitalism. For example, Auburn University’s decision to purchase university attire from Vietnam is not
Church Briefs
to blame for the closure of Russell Mills. Russell Mills’s closure is not responsible for Auburn University purchasing all of their university attire from Vietnam. It is also insufficient to make the blanket statement, “It’s just business.” Free market capitalism is a system of doing business, but it is not a system for living in the earthly kingdom. The system for living in the earthly kingdom cannot be defined or explained that way. The “It’s just business” approach legitimizes practices that are illegitimate and untrue.
The sources mentioned earlier have something else in common. It goes by the name greed. It is the false notion that the needs of one or a select few are greater than the needs of the whole. Free market capitalism may allow for this attitude.
The example of the demise of the textile industry is one simple example. Simply put, if each layer of that industry maintained the good of the whole over the potential good of a few, the industry would have continued to be a boon for our national economy and community. When the good of the bottom line on a balance sheet is the guiding principle, the good of the whole suffers.
I am not condemning free market capitalism. I am simply pointing out that any system of business has benefits and challenges. Engaging complexity is not complicated. Attention to the whole story rather than parts of it is the difference.
Rev. Jonathan Yarboro is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Wetumpka
BETHLEHEM EAST
BAPTIST CHURCH
Bethlehem East Baptist Church will have all Sunday school classes beginning at 9:45 a.m. Sunday morning followed by regular service at 11 a.m. in the sanctuary. We will continue with Facebook
Live Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. and Worship Service at 11 a.m.
CARRVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH
Regular hours of service are Sundays- 9 a.m. Sunday School and 10 a.m. Morning Worship.
Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. the church offers Children’s Gospel Project, Youth Bible Study and Adult Prayer Meeting. Regular office hours
are Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
EAST TALLASSEE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
ETUMC’s Rivers Edge Flea Market is now closed. The church will start a new project called Rivers Edge Food Pantry. ETUMC will provide canned food, water, dry beans and rice, blankets, and jackets. If you want to donate or help with the cause, call Joan Wood at 334-312-4913.
EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE EPIPHANY
Please join us for Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. when the Rev. Lee Lowery will celebrate the Holy Eucharist. We are asking everyone please to wear
a mask. The service will be live streamed on Facebook https:// www.facebook.com/EpiphanyTallassee/ For more information, visit the church website at http://epiphanytallassee.org/
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
First Presbyterian Church, located at 514 Central Blvd. will host a Veteran’s Day Celebration on Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. for all veterans and first responders and their family members.
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
“We are OPEN and everyone is WELCOME! Come worship with us in person Sunday mornings at 8:50 a.m. (contemporary) or 11 a.m.
(traditional). Sunday School for all ages is offered Sunday mornings at 10 a.m., and a nursery is available for infants.
CHILDREN & YOUTH: meet Sunday evenings from 5-6:30 p.m. and Wednesday evenings from 6-7:15 p.m.; supper is included both days! For more information about our church or the programs we offer, visit our website: fumctallassee. com or call us: 334-283-2195.
FUMC Tallassee - 1 Jordan Avenue.”
HILLSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH
Invites you to join us each Sunday at 9:45 a.m. for Sunday School, followed immediately by our Worship Service at 11:00 a.m. Bible Study is Wednesday at 6:00
p.m. We also offer a Sunday evening prayer gathering for those wishing to join together in prayer. If you need prayer or know someone who does, you may call 33-567-9695 and leave a voicemail prayer request or drop a prayer request by our prayer box located on our sanctuary porch. We will carry all requests to the Lord in our hour of prayer. Hillside is located at 405 Old Montgomery Highway in Wetumpka. If you have questions, please call us at 334567-9695.
HILLSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH
Angel’s Attic ministry provides clothing for all members of the family. The Attic is located at 210 Old Montgom-
ery Highway and is open each Wednesday afternoon between the hours of 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
If you wish to donate clothing items, please do so during the Wednesday hours of operation. This is a free service to the community. We look forward to seeing you soon!
OUR LIFE’S JOURNEY Airs every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. on 580 WACQ, FM 98.5 & 101.1, on your smart speaker, your TuneIn app, or on our website www.wacqradio.com. Please share on social media. This set of programs features Msgr. Charles Troncale, Fr. Mateusz Rudzik, Fr. James Dean, Fr. David Carucci, Fr. Patrick Driscoll, and Deacon Jim Labadie.
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
– John 3:17
– Proverbs 10:12
REV. JONATHAN YARBORO Columnist
Familiar faces return to Edgewood Academy
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
Edgewood Academy heads into next year with two notable athletes stepping into new roles with the school.
First was Justin Chandler, who moved from assistant baseball coach to head coach. Chandler played a handful of
sports for the Wildcats from seventh through 11th grade. Although graduating from Stanhope Elmore in 2010, he considers himself a Wildcat more than anything else.
Chandler played under legendary coach Bobby Carr, walking away with multiple state championship rings in both football and baseball. And it is that level of success Carr had at Edgewood that Chandler hopes to bring back. However, although state championships are what any coach searches for, Chandler hopes to impact his players much more than on the field.
“Winning ball games
SEHS wraps up productive spring with scrimmage
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
Exciting things are happening in Millbrook following the Stanhope Elmore spring game against Chelsea last Thursday.
Although not a typical spring game, Mustangs head coach Hunter Adams knew the opportunity was too good to pass up. This was the second year in a row that they had faced off against the Hornets with a scripted scrimmage where no score was kept.
As this was not an opportunity to see which team was better, but to practice specific situations to better prepare them for the season.
“What we do is we guarantee that we can get everything we practice all spring on tape for evaluation,” Adams said. “If you play a traditional four-quarter game in the spring, you might not see a third and long all night long on one side of the ball, or you might not get more than one snap in the red zone, or one PAT or one field goal attempt. So to script it to where we can work all those different things against live competition is tremendously beneficial.”
It is those situational simulations that are going to carry over into the summer, according to Adams. His focus is to make sure, regardless of what the down and distance may be in an actual game, that his players know their responsibilities and know what to expect.
“We’re going to do
situational things every day,” Adams said about the summer. “We want to compete all summer, like I want the intensity and the competition and the sense of urgency to exist every day that we’re here. I don’t want them, when the lights come on in late August, for them to be overwhelmed by the moment or feel the pressure of the moment. Because I want that pressure to have existed all summer.”
Overall, the spring game had many notable standouts, like running backs Dee Barnes, who is set to be the new bell cow back with Arthur McQueen graduating, as well as Jordan Steele finding the endzone on three occasions. However, the group who has grown the most is the Mustangs secondary.
“Last year, we were extraordinarily young in the secondary,” Adams said. “All of our guys were first-year starters. We started a group of all sophomores and freshmen in the secondary last year that played a lot of ball. Took some lumps early and played well by the end of the year. But now that group, I feel like they’re smart, they’re physical, they can handle a lot of volume. Our secondary group had a really, really good spring.”
Stanhope Elmore will get some more opportunities to compete over the summer with possible organized team activities against other schools. But for the time being, Adam viewed the spring practice slate as a huge success.
WETUMPKA FOOTBALL BUILDING TOWARDS FALL
By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor
Everyone knew Wetump-
ka’s spring game with Opelika would be tough. But coach Bear Woods wanted to learn a few things about his team and what the Indians need to work on before the summer.
“We knew going in we were going to be playing a top five program in the state,” Woods said. “It was a great opportunity for us to get some questions answered and what we can work on. We deserve to know right where we are and what we need to work on.”
Overall Woods was happy with the Indians performance on field despite the 35-6 loss in three quarters to
Opelika.
“Hats off to Opelika,” Woods said. “They are a great team.”
The Indians shined at times offensively. Quarterback Kymani Clary not only passed the ball well — finding teammate John Wingard in the flat on several occasions — the pair even combined for Wetumpka’s only score on the night.
The Indians had driven the ball downfield as the clock wound down. Wetumpka lined up for their last play of the drive at the 3-yard line. It looked like it was going to be a draw by Clary, but Wingard released late on a crossing route about seven-yards deep in the endzone. Opelika left Wingard uncovered and an
easy target for Clary. Woods also to see how his Indians would perform against a bigger and physical team. At times Clary pulled the ball down and ran. Others he handed it off to running backs such as Jordan Hill, Deon Floyd and Peyton Finch Ford.
The night started with the junior varsity team playing Opelika for three quarters. Woods said he saw promising things from the young guys to help fill the depth gaps heading into the summer from players such as Jordan Smoke, Damarion Powell, Zyon Robinson, Jabori Davis, Brax Boyd and Charlie Skipper. It aids Woods in making
Holtville eyes summer growth after spring
By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter
Spring football came to a close in Deatsville with the Holtville football team capping off the practice window with an intrasquad scrimmage last Friday.
Heading into his second year as head football coach, Cory Lee took advantage of getting some fully-padded practice in. He has seen tremendous growth from his squad as they continue to learn the scheme both offensively and defensively, but it was paramount to see where his team was at physically.
“There’s no substitute for putting the pads on and seeing who’s going to be physical,” Lee said.
“Who can, especially up front o-line and d-line guys in the box. Defensive line wise, who can take on double teams and withstand that, or who can take on pullers.”
The scrimmage itself gave the Bulldogs ample opportunity to work on the little things that come with the game; practicing substi-
tution, specific game scenarios to even getting a bit of special teams in. However, it also gave Lee and his coaching staff a chance to dawn the headsets to relay plays on the field.
“I mean, even communication with coaches, just getting back on the headset, so that communi-
cation gets the guys,” Lee said.
“At practice it’s usually a closer quarters type deal where now, where all the coaches are on the sidelines, the rest of the team’s on the sideline. They’re having to communicate signals and get calls
Stanhope Elmore’s Zach Goodson (24) and the secondary have flourished this spring.
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI
Wetumpka coach Bear Woods speaks to his team before a spring game with Opelika.
The Holtville football team wrapped up spring practice with an intrasquad scrimmage.
TOP LEFT: Wetumpka running back Jordan Hill (4) takes the handoff from quarterback Charlie Skipper (12) in Friday’s spring game against Opelika.
TOP RIGHT: Wetumpka’s John Wingard (88) comes down with the catch from quarterback Kymani Clary in Friday’s spring game against Opelika.
ABOVE LEFT: Wetumpka coach Bear Woods calls out a change in assignments to his team during Friday’s spring game against Opelika.
ABOVE MIDDLE: Wetumpka’s Deon Floyd (11) runs against Opelika in Friday’s spring game.
ABOVE RIGHT: Wetumpka quarterback Kymani Clary looks to pass against Opelika in Friday’s spring game.
RIGHT: Wetumpka’s Jordan Hill runs against Opelika in Friday’s spring game.
FOOTBALL Continued from B1
decisions about which of the young Indians might
step up this fall.
“There’s a lot of names in the younger group,” Woods said.
“That’s why we had spring training. That’s
is great; winning state championships is great, but my ultimate goal is to have them succeed in life,” Chandler said. “It’s bigger than baseball.”
What will play to Chandler’s benefit, especially early on, is his familiarity with the team. His players already know what is to be expected from him, and in Chandler’s eyes, he would rather it have been him than some entirely new to Edgewood.
“I would rather come in as the head coach than some random person nobody knows,” Chandler said. “The kids are familiar with me. I’m familiar with the school, familiar with the program. I already had those tools. It just all depends on how the kids would react, but I think the kids will settle in a lot faster with me being in
why we had a spring jamboree, because we had to get these things answered as soon as possible.” Woods and his
that role than somebody else.”
The other notable return was Grayson Laney, who is stepping in for Kim Brown as the head softball coach. Laney is another notable athlete who played a plethora of sports during her time at Edgewood Academy.
Following her time with the Wildcats, Laney went on to play collegiate softball at Wallace Community College in Dothan for two years before graduating from Troy this May. It’s her familiarity with the program and expectations that ultimately drew her back, except this time in a new role.
“I was very honored when Edgewood reached out to me, because it just feels like home,” Laney said. “Even after I graduated, I had lots of friends and family that were still there, so I continued to go back, and I just knew it’s not going to feel like a job at all being there every day, because
in and communicate with them and with each other.” Lee now has a gauge on where the team is at as Holtville heads into the summer. Even with the promise he saw
coaching staff will look over film from the spring and put together a plan for off season workouts and seven on sevens.
I never dreaded school. Edgewood was always a safe place for me, it was always a home. And I’m very, very excited to be back within its walls.”
Laney plans to use her shared experience of donning the Edgewood softball uniform while also keying into her collegiate experience to help mold her team both on and off the field.
“I have experience entering college as a student athlete and as just a regular student, and they’re very different,” Laney said. “The thing I want to relay the most is both ways, even as a student and as an athlete, you’re not guaranteed anything. You have to work, you have to be in shape, you have to be conditioned, and you have to have the right attitude. And I think my goal with these girls is to not only shape them as players, but shape them as independent, respectable young
throughout the spring, the proficiency in the scheme will be at the forefront for Holtville. “If we can have great attendance this summer, and having everybody here, all the pieces we can go further into our playbooks,” Lee said. “Further into the development of our techniques.”
“I love being able to coach and with guys in this group that we have,” Woods said. “One thing is for sure we are going to work.
We are excited about our season ahead and region play. We came here for a reason and we got some questions answered this spring.”
women.”
Although the start of the
and softball
is a long way away, both of the
A difference between the spring and summer will be how the Bulldogs attack the weightroom. Lee anticipates to lift heavy with conditioning paired alongside, but they will get other opportunities to go against competition with 7-on-7 games and other organized team activities.
“We’ll just continue to build off
AISA.
what we did in the spring with 7-on-7 competitions,” Lee said. “We got some OTAs scheduled to go, so that’s gonna be good for us. But again, just developing off of that, what we got came out of spring doing now, how can we build upon that to be as prepared for whenever we get into August. That’s kind of the progression for us.”
baseball
season
new coaches will attack the summer to build Edgewood back to a place it once was — at the top of
SUBMITTED TPI
Grayson Laney returns to her alma mater as the new softball head coach at Edgewood Academy.
CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI
CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES
AlaScans
yqyg
Step. North Americas #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-844-871-6175 Call LeafGuard and say goodbye to gutter cleaning for good. No cleaning. No leaking. No water damage. No more ladder accidents. Get LeafGuard today and be protected for life. FREE estimate. Financing available. 20% off total purchase (Restrictions may apply.) Call 1-844-679-2490
DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus procedures. Real dental plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-817-4697 www. dental50plus.com/alabama #6258
Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-833-426-0193 today!
Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waiving ALL installation costs! (Additional and vary by dealer. (Offer ends 6/30/25.) Call 1-877-205-0836
Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-833-887-1317
ATTENTION HOMEOWNERS
Needing Siding, Window or Roofs. We are opening a these homes for advertising. SAVE HUNDREDS. 100% Financing*.SR/Military discounts. $1000 OFF with this ad. ENDS SOON *wac 800-350-0591
AUTOMOTIVE GOT AN UNWANTED CAR??? DONATE IT TO PATRIOTIC HEARTS. Fast free pick up. Patriotic Hearts’ programs help own business. Call 24/7: 1-855-405-8927
Have zip code of service location ready when you call! IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY and suffered an infection between 2020 and the present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson 1-800-535-5727 EDUCATION ATTENTION ACTIVE Duty & Military Veterans! Begin a new career and earn your Degree at CTI! Online Computer & Medical training available for Veterans & Families! To learn more, call 866-475-1014 (M-F 8am-6pm ET). HEALTH/BEAUTY ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-650-7885 Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to
Public Notices
; GREES 37 MIN. 15 SEC. E 315.00 FEET TO AN IRON PIN. SAID POINT BEING REFERED TO AS POINT “A”FOR FUTURE REFERENCE; THENCE LEAVING SAID POINT “A” SOUTH 86 DEGREES 33 MIN. 56 SEC W 274.92 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING SAID DESCRIBED PARCEL OF LAND LYING IN THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 28, T-20-N, R-17-E, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA AND containing 2.000 acres more or less TOGETHER WITH A 30 FOOT INGRESS/EGRESS EASEMENT BEING FURTHER DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS COMMENCE AT THE ABOVE DESCRIBED POINT A; THENCE LEAVING SAID POINT A NORTH 02 DEGREES 37 MIN. 15 SEC. W 48.17 FEET TO A POINT LYING ON THE CENTERLINE OF AN EXISTING DIRT DRIVE, SAID POINT BEING THE POINT OF BEGINNING FOR THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED CENTERLINE OF A 30 FOOT INGRESS/EGRESS EASEMENT; THENCE LEAVING SAID POINT OF BEGINNING NORTH 64 DEGREES 11 MIN. 26 SEC. E 76.93 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 53 DEGREES 42 MIN 59 SEC E 134.09 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 81 DEGREES 49 MIN 57 SEC. E 154.48 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 68 DEGREES 43 MIN. 59 SEC. E 218.64 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 77 DEGREES 27 MIN. 14 SEC. E 64.58 FEET TO THE POINT OF ENDING, SAID POINT LYING ON THE NORTHWESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY OF COUNTY ROAD NO 278 (NOBLES ROAD 60 FEET ROW) SAID DESCRIBED 30 FOOT INGRESS/EGRESS EASEMENT LYING 15 FOOT ON EITHER SIDE OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED CENTERLINE. THE ABOVE DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS NOT THE HOMESTEAD OF THE GRANTOR THIS CONVEYANCE IS MADE UNDER THE EXPRESS AUTHORITY OF CODE DF ALABAMA. 1975, SECTION 35-4-7, AS AMENDED. SUBJECT PROPERTY IS LOCATED IN ELMORE COUNTY NO: 29 03 08 28 0 000 015.001522 Nobles Rd Deatsville, AL 36022
TIONS REFLECTED IN THE
CORDS OF THE OFFICE OF
AUTO INSURANCE from $29 month Free 2-minute Quote! We Compare all Insurance providers offers for you! Lowest Rates! Call Now 1 833-399-6566
STOP OVERPAYING FOR AUTO INSURANCE!
A recent survey says that most Americans are over paying for their car insurance. Let us show you how much you can save. Call Now for a no-obligation quote: 1-877-551-4740
Public Notices
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE ELMORE COUNTY
Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Christopher O Welch and Melissa Welch, husband and wife, orig-said mortgage recorded in the
Company, 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 bidfront of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Elmore Counduring the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore
THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED REAL ESTATE, SITUATED IN ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA, TO WIT: COMMENCE AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 28, T-20-N, R-L7-E, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA; THENCE LEAVING SAID CORNER NORTH 86 DEGREES 33 MIN 56 SEC E 394.93 FEET TO AN IRON PIN, SAID POINT BEING THE POINT OF BEGINNING FOR THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED PARCEL OF LAND. THENCE LEAVING SAID POINT OF BEGINNING NORTH 02 DEGREES 37 MIN. 15 SEC. W 318.90 FEET TO AN IRON PIN; THENCE NORTH 87 DEGREES 22 MIN. 45 SEC. E 274 89 FEET TO AN IRON PIN; THENCE SOUTH 02 DE-
Public Notices
Public Notices
THERETO.sons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumexist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process.ed to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tenthe time and place of the sale. If sale is voided, Mortgagee/ Transferee shall return the bid amount to the successful purchaser. The Mortgagee/Transshall not be liable to the purchaser for any damages. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the purchaser at the sale shall be only entitled to a return of the bid amount. 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 Company, Inc, Mortgagee/
ney for Mortgagee/Transferee.
Herald
1078-388A PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE
Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Bertha Chrystene Brown, a single woman, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee
y for Quicken Loans Inc., on May 24, 2007, said mortgage recordof Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in RLPY Book 2007 Page 41539; the undersigned Deutsche Bank National Trust Company as Trustee for GSR Mortgage Loan Trust 2007OA2, Mortgage Pass-Through as Mortgagee/Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Wetumpka, El16, 2025, during the legal hours of sale, all of its rights, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, towit: Begin at the Southeast corner of Section 3, Township 18 North, Range 19 East, thence North 7 degrees 45 minutes West 470.3 feet, thence South 82 degrees 15 minutes West 200 feet to a branch, thence in a straight line in a Southwesterly direction 500 feet to a point on the South boundary line of said Section 3 which is 394 feet along said boundary line from the point of beginning, run thence in an Easterly direction along said South boundary line of said Section 3, a distance of 394 feet to the point of beginning. Said parcel lying and being situated in the Southeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of Section 3, Township 18 North, Range 19 East, and containing 3.0 acres, more or less.. Property street address for informational purposes: 289 Old Georgia Plank Spur , Wetumpka, AL 36092. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TOMENT AND WILL BE SOLDTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) to Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price plus any deed recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law at the address indicated below. Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. Deutsche Bank National Trust Company as Trustee for GSR Mortgage Loan Trust 2007OA2, Mortgage Pass-Through (“Transferee”) Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., 2501 20th Place South, Suite 300, Homewood, AL Number: 25-04019-PH-AL
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025 25-00859
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that an application has been made to the Elmore County Commission for a 050 – Retail Beer (off premises only) and 070 – Retail Table Wine (off premises only) Alcohol License Application for Open Door Country Store by Open Door Country Store, Inc at 2028 Old Ware Road, Wetumpka, AL 36093. The Public Hearing on said application is set before the County Commission at 5:00pm, Tuesday, May 27, 2025 in the Elmore County Courthouse Courtroom, 100 East Commerce Street, Wetumpka, Alabama. Anyone desiring to speak either for or against said application should appear in person at said time or may indicate their wishes in writing to: Elmore County Commission Attn: Chief Engineer 100 East Commerce St., Suite 200 Wetumpka, AL 36092 lmechd@elmoreco.org
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 2025 APPLICATION
PUBLIC NOTICE
The following will be auctioned off by J&J Towing on 6-24-25 @ 10 a.m.
2015 Chevy Malibu1G11B5SL2FF280490 2012 FORD FOCUS1FAHP3M26CL352522 2003 JEEP LIBERTY1J4FK48143W525986 1994 CHEVY C/K 15001GCDC14Z4RZ206678
Wetumpka Herald: May 21 and 28, 2025 AV/15 CHEVY
PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE
Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed on February 15, 2013 by Allen S. Braswell and Denise J. Braswell, husband and wife, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registra-ciary, as nominee for IBERIABANK Mortgage Company, and recorded in MTG Book 2013 at Page 9557 on February 15, of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, and secured indebtedness having been transferred to Truist Bank. LOGS Legal Group LLP, as counsel for Mortgagee or Transferee and under and by virtue of power of sale contained in the said mortgage will, on July 3, 2025, sell at public outcry to the highest bidder at the main entrance of the Elmore County, Alabama, Courthouse in the City of Wetumpka, during the legal hours of sale, the following real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to wit: Lot 3, Walnut Point No. Two at Emerald Mountain, as the same of the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama in Plat Book 13, at Page 52. For informational purposes only, the property address is: 106 Walnut Point Drive, Wetumpka, AL 36093. ANY PROPERTY ADDRESS PROVIDED IS NOT PART OF THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY SOLD HEREIN AND IN THE EVENT OF ANY DISCREPANCY, THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION REFERENCED HEREIN SHALL CONTROL. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. Furthermore, the property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the mortgagee, nor the employees, agents or authorized representative of the mortgagee make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition, including those suggested by Code of Ala. (1975) § 35-4-271, expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars and no/100 funds at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price must be paid inness on the next business day LOGS Legal Group LLP at the address indicated below. LOGS Legal Group LLP reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder, or to reschedule the sale, should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the
Public Notices ppyg property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. Truist Bank, and its successors and assigns Mortgagee or Transferee LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 704-333-8107/ 25-024690 Attorneys
Jacket Symphony by JROK, Inc. at The Lake Martin Amphitheater, 8878 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic, AL 36024 for an event on August 31, 2025 through September 1, 2025. The Public Hearing on said application is set before the Coun-
Wetumpka
Wetumpka Herald:
CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES
Public Notices
man, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Nations Lending Corporation, its successors and assigns dated November 29, 2018; said mortgage being recorded on November 30, 2018 in Deed Book 2018, Page 56746, in the of Elmore County, Alabama. Said Mortgage was last sold, assigned and transferred to Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC by assignment recorded in Deed Book 2023, Page 6287, Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. The undersigned, Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash before the main entrance of the Court House in Elmore County, Alabama during the legal hours of sale (between 11am and 4pm), property, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 29, Block B, according to the Map of Crossgates Plat No. 3, as the same is recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, In Plat Book 9, at Page 17. Said property is commonly known as 213 Quail Ridge Road, Elmore, AL 36025 the property address and the legal description, the legal description will control. Said property will be sold subject to any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), the right of redemption of any taxing authority, all outstanding liens for public utilities which constitute liens upon the property, any matters which might be disclosed by an accurate survey and inspection of the property, any assessments, liens, encumbrances, easements, rights-of-way, zoning ordinances, restrictions, special assessments, covenants, the statutory right of redemption pursuant to Alabama law, and any matters of record including, but not limited to, those supeout above. Said property will be sold on an “as-is” basis without any representation, warranty or recourse against the abovenamed or the undersigned. The successful bidder must present the winning bid at the time and place of sale. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. The sale will be conducted subsale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) of the status of the loan with the holder of the Mortgage.
LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC as holder of said mortgage McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP 505 20th Street N, Suite 1775 Birmingham, AL 35203 Telephone: (205) 216-4238
FT21@mccalla.com File No. 25-06875AL www.foreclosurehotline.net 25-06875AL
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025
25-06875AL/97382 PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that an application has been made to the Elmore County Commission for a 140 – Special Events Retail Alcohol License Application for The Black Jacket Symphony by JROK, Inc. at The Lake Martin Amphitheater, 8878 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic, AL 36024 for an event on June 7, 2025 through June 8, 2025. The Public Hearing on said application is set before the County Commission at 5:00pm, Tuesday, May 27, 2025 in the Elmore County Courthouse Courtroom, 100 East Commerce Street, Wetumpka, Alabama. Anyone desiring to speak either for or against said application should appear in person at said time or may indicate their wishes in writing to: Elmore County Commission Attn: Chief Engineer 100 East Commerce St., Suite 200 Wetumpka, AL 36092 lmechd@elmoreco.org
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 2025 APPLICATION 3 PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE
STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE
Default having been made of the terms of the loan documents secured by that certain mortgage executed by Wright Next Door Investments LLC to FTF Lending, LLC dated October 6, 2023; said mortgage being recorded on October 10, 2023 in Deed Book 2023, Page 46533, in the of Elmore County, Alabama.. The undersigned, FTF Lending, LLC, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash before the main entrance of the Court House in Elmore County, Alabama during the legal hours of sale (between 2025 the following property, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit:
Public Notices
Commence at a fence corner known as the SW corner of Section 20, T19N, R19E, Elmore County, Alabama; thence along a fence the following two (2) courses: 1) North 85 deg. 20 min. 01 sec. West, 119.78 feet, 2) North 82 deg. 32 min. 41 sec. West, 155.62 feet to an iron pin and the Point of Beginning for the herein described parcel of land; thence continue along said fence the following four (4) courses: 1) North 82 deg. 32 min. 41 sec. West, 126.86 feet; 2) North 85 deg. 42 min. 20 sec. West, 147.48 feet; 3) North 87 deg. 54 min. 55 sec. West, 32.21 feet; 4) South 89 deg. 37 min. 56 sec. West, 175.95 feet to an iron pin; thence leaving said fence North 02 deg. 52 min. 26 sec. East 540.04 feet to an iron pin located on the South right of way (60’) of County Road No. 47; thence along said right of way, North 54 deg. 29 min. 26 sec. East, 423.58 feet to a fence corner; thence leaving said right of way along a fence South 76 deg. 02 min. 44 sec. East, 152.57 feet to an iron pin; thence leaving said fence South 02 deg. 52 min. 26 sec. West, 777.12 feet to the Point of Beginning. Said parcel containing 7.77 acres, more or less, and lying in and being a part of the SE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section 19, T19N, R19E, Elmore County, Alabama. LESS AND EXCEPT: Commence at an existing fence corner post at the SE corner of Section 19, T19N, R19E, Elmore County, Alabama; thence North 85 deg. 20 min. 01 sec. West, 119.78 feet; thence North 82 deg. 2 min. 41 sec. West, 155.62 feet to an iron pin; thence North 02 deg. 52 min. 26 sec. East, along existing fence, 330.71 feet to an iron pin, said point being the Point of Beginning; thence North 87 deg. 07 min. 34 sec. West, 248.00 feet to an iron pin; thence North 13 deg. 26 min. 24 sec. West, along existing fence, 336.18 feet to an iron pin on the South right of way of County Road 209, Grier Road, 80’ R.O.W.; thence North 54 deg. 26 min. 29 sec. East along said right of way, 246.00 feet to an existing fence corner post; thence leaving said right of way, South 76 deg. 02 min. 44 sec. East along existing fence, 152.57 feet to an iron pin; thence South 02 deg. 52 min. 26 sec. West, along existing fence, 446.23 feet to the Point of Beginning. Said parcel lying in the SE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section 19, T19N, R19E, Elmore County, Alabama, and containing 3.00 acres, more or less. Said property is commonly known as 750 Grier Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 the property address and the legal description, the legal description will control. Said property will be sold subject to any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), the right of redemption of any taxing authority, all outstanding liens for public utilities which constitute liens upon the property, any matters which might be disclosed by an accurate survey and inspection of the property, any assessments, liens, encumbrances, easements, rights-of-way, zoning ordinances, restrictions, special assessments, covenants, the statutory right of redemption pursuant to Alabama law, and any matters of record including, but not limited to, those supeout above. Said property will be sold on an “as-is” basis without any representation, warranty or recourse against the abovenamed or the undersigned. The successful bidder must present the winning bid at the time and place of sale. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. The sale will be conducted subsale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code and (2) of the status of the loan with the holder of the Mortgage.
FTF LENDING, LLC as holder of said mortgage McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP 505 20th Street N, Suite 1775 Birmingham, AL 35203 Telephone: (205) 216-4238 FT21@mccalla.com File No. 25-06929AL www.foreclosurehotline.net
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 28 25-06929AL/97533 PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA BARNEY STRENGTH AND MARY STRENGTH PLAINTIFF, V. THE SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE RESORT LAND COMPANY, INC.; FLOYD E. GLASS, AND IF) DECEASED, HIS HEIRS AND ASSIGNS, AND FICTITIOUS) PARTIES “A”, “B”, “C”, BEING ANY AND/OR ALL PERSONS, OR ENTITIES, WHICH MAY HOLD OR CLAIM } ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE HEREIN DESCRIBED REAL ESTATE LOCATED IN ELMORE COUNTY,) ALABAMA; AND LOT NO. 29 IN BLOCK 3 OF UNIT 1 OF KOWALIGA RETREAT SUBDIVISION
Public Notices
, THE PLAT OF WHICH IS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE ) OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN PLAT BOOK 4, PAGE 83. DEFENDANTS. CASE NO. CV-2025-900108 NOTICE OF FILING OF COMPLAINT AND ORDER DIRECTING FILING OF APPEARANCE AND ANSWER OF DEFENDANTS
TO: FLOYD E. GLASS, and if deceased, his heirs and assigns; any successors in interest of THE RESORT LAND COMPANY, INC; and anyone claiming an ownership interest in, is attempting to purchase, claims to hold a lien on, or anyone who claims to lease the subject property of this Action, YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 21st day of April, 2025, a Complaint to Quiet Tiof Elmore County, Alabama under Civil Action No. CV-2025900108. All persons having an interest in the above described property, or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to appear, answer, demur or otherwise respond to the allegations contained in the Plaintiffs’ Complaint within thirtycation on June 4, 2025; or, in the event said Defendants fail to appear and answer, a Default Judgment may be entered against them. Said lands which are more particular described in the ComWITNESS my hand and seal, this 6 day of May, 2025.
/s/Clerk of the Circuit Court of Elmore County, Alabama
REGINA B. EDWARDS, ESQ.
Attorney for Plaintiffs
The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, PC 109 East Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21, 28 and June 4, 2025 CV-2025-900108 PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH DALE ACREMAN, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-093 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of KENNETH DALE ACREMAN, deceased, having been granted to PATRICIA L. ACREMAN on May 8, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
PATRICIA L. ACREMAN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH DALE ACREMAN, DECEASED.
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: REGINA B. EDWARDS, ESQ. THE LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 E. BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025 EST/ACREMAN K. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DANNY JOE ALBRIGHT, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-023 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of DANNY JOE ALBRIGHT, deceased, having been granted to PAULA M. ALBRIGHT on the 15th day of May, 2025 by D. Jason Britt, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
PAULA M. ALBRIGHT PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF DANNY JOE ALBRIGHT, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for such
Personal Representative: JIM L. DEBARDELABEN ATTORNEY AT LAW PO BOX 1136 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-265-9206
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 28 and June 4, 2025 EST/ALBRIGHT D.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DANIEL ANDERSON BAILEY, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-156 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of DANIEL ANDERSON BAILEY, deceased, having been granted to MICHAEL A. BAILEY on May 8, 2025, by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time
Public Notices q allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
MICHAEL A. BAILEY
PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF DANIEL ANDERSON BAILEY, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for
Personal Representative: REGINA EDWARDS THE LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025 EST/BAILEY, D. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JANET CLAIR BALLARD, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2024-223 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of JANET CLAIR BALLARD, deceased, having been granted to GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. on April 29, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF JANET CLAIR BALLARD, DECEASED
Name and Address of Adminis-
trator: GERALD A. DANIEL, JR.
LAW OFFICE OF GA DANIEL, JR. LLC PO BOX 638 MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-9444
Wetumpka Herald: May 7, 14 and 21, 2025 EST/BALLARD J. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN M. BEASLEY, A/K/A JOHNNY M. BEASLEY DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-164 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of JOHN M. BEASLEY, A/K/A JOHNNY M. BEASLEY, deceased, having been granted to JAMES E. JOHNSTON on May 16, 2025, by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred. JAMES E. JOHNSTON PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN M. BEASLEY, A/K/A JOHNNY M. BEASLEY, DECEASED
Name and Address of Attorney for Personal Representative: JAMES E. “SAM” JOHNSTON ATTORNEY AT LAW 4371 MARLER ROAD PIKE ROAD, ALABAMA 36064 334-215-7596
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 28 and Jun. 4, 2025 EST/BEASLEY, J. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA DIANE BOLES, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2024-244 NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT
Notice is hereby given to Linda Faye Alverez, Peggy Crates, Robert Lee Singleton and any other interested party, that on the 1st day of May 2025, Robert Eugene Boles, Personal Representative of the Estate of Linda Diane Boles, deceased, hasment of said Estate. It is ordered that the 1st day of July, at 9:00 a.m., 2025, be, and the same hereby is, appointed as the day for the hearing of the said petition and for the auditing and stating of said account, at which time all people interested may appear and contest the same, if they desire to do so. Witness my hand this 14th day of May, 2025.
D. JASON BRITT
JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: Ed Parish, Jr. Parish Law Firm
Montgomery, AL 36101-0052
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 28 and June 4, 2025 EST/BOLES, L.
PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF TABITHA CHANCE, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2024-223 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of TABITHA CHANCE, deceased, having
Public Notices
g been granted to GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. on April 28, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
GERALD A. DANIEL, JR.
ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF TABITHA CHANCE, DECEASED
Name and Address of Adminis-
trator:
GERALD A. DANIEL, JR.
LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL, JR. LLC PO BOX 638 MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-9444
Wetumpka Herald: May 7, 14 and 21, 2025 EST/CHANGE, T.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARSHA DUNNAM CLEVELAND, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-063 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of MARSHA DUNNAM CLEVELAND, deceased, having been granted to ANGELA CLEVELAND BARENTINE on the 5th day of May 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
ANGELA CLEVELAND BARENTINE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MARSHA DUNNAM CLEVELAND, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for such Personal Representative: CHIP CLEVELAND, ESQ. THE CLEVELAND FIRM, LLC 707 MCQUEEN SMITH ROAD S. PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36066
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025
EST/CLEVELAND, M. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF FERMON RAY DORMINEY, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-160 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of FERMON RAY DORMINEY, deceased, having been granted to MICHAEL RAY DORMINEY on MAY 13, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
MICHAEL RAY DORMINEY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF FERMON RAY DORMINEY, DECEASED
Address of Personal Representative: 728 Old Salem Road Eclectic, Alabama 36024
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 28 and June 4, 2025 EST/DORMINEY F. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF TIM ELLIS, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-140 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of TIM ELLIS, deceased, having been granted to JUDI B. MILES on May 12, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
JUDI B. MILES PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF TIM ELLIS, DECEASED
Name and Address of Attorney for Personal Representative: REGINA EDWARDS THE LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 28 and June 4, 2025
EST/ELLIS T. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY T. FREDERICK, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-157 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters Testamentary in the Estate of MARY T. FREDERICK, deceased, having been granted to ANGELA M. BAILEY
may 21, 2025
Public Notices
g on May 9, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
ANGELA M. BAILEY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MARY T. FREDERICK, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: ROBERT B. RENEAU LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025 EST/FREDERICK M PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY. ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JULIA GRAHAM, CASE NO.: 2025-044 DECEASED. NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of JULIA GRAHAM, deceased, having been granted to THERISA GILBERT and ANTHONY GRAHAM on the 2nd day of May, 2025 by D. Jason Britt, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred. THERISA GILBERT and ANTHONY GRAHAM CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ESTATE OF JULIA GRAHAM, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives: JAMES E. WILSON, JR. ATTORNEY AT LAW 732 CARTER HILL RD MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36106 334-834-9899
Wetumpka Herald: May 7, 14 and 21, 2025 EST/GRAHAM, J. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RAYMOND LESLIE MASON DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-106 NOTICE TO NEXT OF KIN OF FILING OF WILL FOR PROBATE NOTICE TO: CHARLES LESLIE DEBLASO, A NON-RESIDENT OF THE STATE OF ALABAMA, JULIE ANN MASON GROSCLAUDE, WHOSE WHEREABOUTS ARE UNKNOWN, BOTH OF WHOM ARE AN HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF RAYMOND LESLIE MASON; AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES: TAKE NOTICE that on March 31.2025, a certain paper in writing, purporting to be the Last Will and Testament of RAYMOND LESLIE MASON, deCourt of Elmore County, Ala-such Last Will and Testamentsonal Representative of such Estate. This Notice of Filing of as an heir at law and next of kin of RAYMOND LESLIE MASON, DECEASED. It is ordered that the 17th day of June 2025, at 10:00 a.m., is appointed as the day for the hearing of the said petition, at which time all persons interested may appear and contest the same, if they desire to do so. D. JASON BRITT ELMORE COUNTY. ALABAMA Name and Address of AttorneyWAY BIRMINGHAM. ALABAMA 35215 (205) 853-3911
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025 EST/MASON R. PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell for cash, at an ONLINE public auction on the 28st of May 2025, at 9:00am AT STORAGETREASURES.COM. Please note: THIS AUCTION IS NOT IN PERSON. PLEASE DO NOT SHOW UP TO OUR PHYSICAL LOCATION. ALL AUCTION PARTICIPANTS MUST SIGN UP AND BID ONLINE.
Southeast Storage 8416 US-231 Wetumpka, AL 36092
3018: Melissa Duncan. 1451 Holtville Rd, Wetumpka, Al 36092 Contents:desk, boxes, tv, mattress, lamps bags of clothes 3056: Janie Hill. 242 Stardust Cir. Newport News, Va 23608 Contents: tv stand, box, mirror 2445: Haley Salie: 609 N. Bridge St. Wetumpks, Al 36092 Contents: pictures, tote, shelves 405: Sharon Harris: 48 Poplar Dr. Wetumpka, Al 36092 tables, chairs, boxes, tots, lamps Wetumpka Herald: May 14 and 21, 2025 STORAGE AUCTION
CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PHILLIP DAVID MCCARTY, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-148 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of PHILLIP DAVID MCCARTY, deceased, having been granted to MELANIE STOWE MCCARTY on April 30, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
MELANIE STOWE MCCARTY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF PHILLIP DAVID MCCARTY, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: JUSTIN EDWARDS THE LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: May 7, 14 and 21, 2025
EST/MCCARTY P. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ISAAC McQUEEN, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-158 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of ISAAC McQUEEN, deceased, having been granted to MARY A. McQUEEN on May 15, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
MARY A. McQUEEN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF ISAAC McQUEEN, DECEASED
Name and Address of Attorney for Personal Representative: LARRY L. RABY ATTORNEY AT LAW PO BOX 4751 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36103 492 SOUTH COURT STREET MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36104 334-652-8929
lewisraby@yahoo.com
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 28 and Jun. 4, 2025 EST/MCQUEEN I. PUBLIC NOTICE
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH MANNING MILLER, JR., DECEASED CASE NO: 2025-162 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JOSEPH MANNING MILLER, JR., deceased, having been granted to MARY JO ESKRIDGE on May 8, 2025 by JOHN THORNTON, Special Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
MARY JO ESKRIDGE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH MANNING MILLER, JR., DECEASED
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: BRANDON C. STONE STONE LAW GROUP, LLC 114 SOUTH MAIN STREET PO BOX 967 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-517-6520
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025
EST/MILLER JR. PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: Pursuant to AL Self-Service Storage Facilities Act 2021 & to satisfy Owner’s lien Storage Sense Millbrook, will hold an online public auction of the personal property stored in units located at 4180 Al-14, Millbrook, Al 36054, 334-472-9650 to satisfy Operator’s lien. Everything sold is purchased AS-IS for CASH ONLY. See & bid on all units 24/7, sale ending on June 3rd 10:00 AM @ www. Storageauctions.com. Auctions subject to cancellation at any time for any reason until winning bidder takes possession of property. TERMS listed on auction website. Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 2025 STORAGE AUCTION PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BURL E. MURPHY, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-151 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Public Notices
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of BURL E. MURPHY, deceased, having been granted to EUGENIA HANCOCK on May 1, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
EUGENIA HANCOCK PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF BURL E. MURPHY, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for
Personal Representative: SCARLETT TRAVIS ATTORNEY AT LAW
GARY S. MCANNALLY, LLC 50 WISTERIA PLACE MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-1976
Wetumpka Herald: May 7, 14 and 21, 2025 EST/MURPHY, B. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY ANN ORR, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-149 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration with Will Annexed over the Estate of MARY ANN ORR, deceased, having been granted to TRAVIS LANCE HOUGH on the 30th day of April, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
TRAVIS LANCE HOUGH ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF MARY ANN ORR, DECEASED
Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: REGINA EDWARDS THE LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011
Wetumpka Herald: May 7, 14 and 21, 2025
EST/ORR M. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BILLY WAYNE PITTS DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-125 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of BILLY WAYNE PITTS, deceased, having been granted to SHELBY HOWELL PITTS on May 8, 2025, by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
SHELBY HOWELL PITTS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF BILLY WAYNE PITTS, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: JASON M. JACKSON RADNEY, RADNEY & JACKSON, LLC PO BOX 819 ALEXANDER CITY, ALABAMA 35011 256-234-2547
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025
EST/PITTS, B. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN J. QRYS, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-099 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of STEPHEN J. QRYS, deceased, having been granted to SYDNEY QRYS on May 6, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
SYDNEY QRYS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN J. QRYS, DECEASED
Name and Address of Attorney for Personal Representative: JEFFREY J. COURTNEY ATTORNEY AT LAW PO BOX 100 WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-567-2545
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025
EST/QRYS, S. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES ALVIN RAINWATER, III, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-168 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JAMES ALVIN RAIN-
Public Notices
WATER, III, deceased, having been granted to JESSICA L. OWENS on May 16, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
JESSICA L. OWENS
PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES ALVIN RAINWATER, III, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative:
GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL, JR. LLC PO BOX 638
MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-9444
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 28 and Jun. 4, 2025
EST/RAINWATER III.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RICKEY O’NEAL REEVES, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-136 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of RICKEY O’NEAL REEVES, deceased, having been granted to DIONNE LEWIS REEVES on May 14, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
DIONNE LEWIS REEVES
PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF RICKEY O’NEAL REEVES, DECEASED
Name and Address of Attorney for Personal Representative: REID G. TOLAR
ATTORNEY AT LAW 250 WINTON M. BLOUNT LOOP MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36117
334-303-2258
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 28 and June 4, 2025 EST/REEVES R.
Do you have available jobs? Call 256.277.4219 to let others know about job opportunities at your business.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF FRED SCHEIBEN, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-150 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters Testamentary in the Estate of FRED SCHEIBEN, deceased, having been granted to ANNA ELIZABETH SCHEIBEN BISHOP on May 2, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
ANNA ELIZABETH SCHEIBEN BISHOP PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF FRED SCHEIBEN, DECEASED
Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: JOHN B. BRADLEY RIVER REGION LAW FIRM 41 CAMBRIDGE COURT WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36093 334-409-0088
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025 EST/SCHEIBEN F.
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ANGEL DOMINIQUE WARD, DECEASED. CASE NO: 2025-131 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of ANGEL DOMINIQUE WARD, deceased, having been granted to ED PARISH, JR. on May 9, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
ED PARISH, JR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF ANGEL DOMINIQUE WARD, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Personal Representative:
ED PARISH, JR. THE PARISH LAW FIRM P.O. BOX 52 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
36101-0052 323 ADAMS AVE MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36104 334-263-0003
Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025 EST/WARD A.
Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DANIEL PHILLIP WILSON, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-139 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE
Letters of Administration over the Estate of DANIEL PHILLIP WILSON, deceased, having been granted to MELISSA ANN MATARRESE on April 29, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.
MELISSA ANN MATARRESE PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF DANIEL PHILLIP WILSON, DECEASED
Name and Address of Attorney for Personal Representative: BRADLEY A. HAWLEY ATTORNEY AT LAW 925 SOUTH MEMORIAL DRIVE PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36067 334-361-7750 bhawley@graingerhawley.com
Wetumpka Herald: May 7, 14 and 21, 2025
EST/WILSON D. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF COVINGTON COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF: JUVENILE DIVISION M. K. A. B. A MINOR, CASE NO.: JU2024-170.01 AND M. C. A. B. A MINOR. CASE NO.: JU-2024-171.01
TO: JOHNNIE ADAMS BRUCE, whose last known address was 7719 Alabama Highway 143, Deatsville, Alabama 36022. Please take notice that a Petition for Termination of Parental Rights to the minor child, M. K. A. B., and to the minor child M. Juvenile Court of Covington County, Alabama, by Lindsey Star Day and you must answer the Petition within fourteen (14) days after the last date of publication, otherwise, a default judgment may be taken against the said Johnnie Adams Bruce. Please be advised that if you intend to contest the Petition your with counsel for said Petitioner, whose name and address is shown below and with the Clerk of the Court. Lindsey Stare Day, Petitioner Benton H. Persons, Attorney for Petitioner P. O. Box 974 Andalusia, AL 36420 (334)222-3108 /s/ Benton H. Persons Benton H. Persons Attorney for Petitioner Wetumpka Herald: May 7, 14, 21 and 28, 2025 JU-2024-170.01
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that Wetumpka Self Storage, 4057 US Hwy 231, Wetumpka, AL 36093 334-567-5000, will sell or dispose of the misc household goods in the following units on Thursday, June 5, 2025 beginning at 8:00 am @: 1102 Coosa River Parkway, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Unit 2002: Melvin Jones, 58 Lovejoy Drive, Wetumpka AL 36092 4041 US Hwy 231, Wetumpka, AL 36093 Unit 64: Eric Cain, 817 NW Main St, Wetumpka AL 36092 To satisfy liens in accordance with the Self Storage Act of 1981 and lease agreement, tenant may pay off lien with CASH prior to auction to reclaim their goods.
Wetumpka Herald: May 21 sand 28, 2024 STORAGE AUCTION
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell for cash, at an ONLINE public auction on Wednesday, May 21st, 2025, at 11:00am AT STORAGETREASURES.COM. Please note: THIS AUCTION IS NOT IN PERSON. PLEASE DO NOT SHOW UP TO OUR PHYSICAL LOCATION. ALL AUCTION PARTICIPANTS MUST SIGN UP AND BID ONLINE.
Flex Storage 749 US-231 Wetumpka, AL 36093 608: Stacy Day. 6778 Grier Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092
Contents: Fans, totes, paint, clothes
Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 2025 STORAGE AUCTION
PUBLIC NOTICE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS NEW COMMUNITY CENTER FOR THE TOWN OF ELMORE
ELMORE, ALABAMA
MCKEE PROJECT NO. 24-230
CDBG PROJECT NO.
SM-CE-PF-23-014
Separate sealed bids for this project shall be received by Mayor Margaret White at the Elmore Town Hall, 485 Jackson Street, Elmore, AL, until 2:00 PM Central Time, Thursday May 22, 2025, and then publicly opened and read aloud. A Pre-bid Meeting will be held on Wednesday May 14 2025
Public Notices
yy,, at 11:00 AM at Community Center Site, Bidder’s attendance is not required but encouraged. All Bidders shall have general liability and workman’s compensation insurance and a current business license with the Town of Elmore. The project shall be bid excluding taxes. Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Architect or copies thereof. All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975 and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Architect. All bidders shall show such evidence by clearly displaying their current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered.
payable to the Town of Elmore percent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00 must accompany the bidder’s sealed proposal. Performance and statutory labor and material payment bonds will be required at the signing of the Contract. No bidder may withdraw its bid within thirty (30) days after the actual date of the opening thereof. Each bidder must be subject to the conditions provided in the “Information for Bidders”. PDFs of the project can be reviewed by going to the McKee website at www.mckeeassoc. com and selecting “Project Bid List”. Also, if you are not receiving NOTIFICATIONS from us, please register on our website, “Project Bid List” by selecting The documents may be viewed on-line and printed by General Contractors, Sub Contractors and Suppliers. Documents published through this procedure are the only documents endorsed by the Architect. The Architect is unable to monitor,sites that provide documents. Addendums will be provided to entities that have CONFIRMED bidding for this particular project. The Architect retains ownership and copyrights of the documents. If bidders require printed sets, please submit request to the Architect at mckeeplans@ last name, company name, address, phone number and the project name and number. Print sets are to be returned, in reusable condition, within ten days after bid opening. All RFIs and RFAs regarding the bid documents shall be sent and addressed through emails found on the RFI and RFA forms in the project manual. NOTE: ONLY THE RFI AND RFA FORMS IN THE PROJECT MANUAL WILL BE ACCEPTED. The Architect will not accept inquiries via telephone or fax.
Owner: Mayor Margaret White, Town of Elmore, Alabama, 485 Jackson Street, Elmore, AL 36054, Phone: (334) 514-5988 Architect: McKee and Associates Architects, Inc., 631 South Hull Street, Montgomery, Alabama 36104, Phone: (334) 8349933
Wetumpka Herald: May, 7, 14 and 21, 2025 NO. 24-230 PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER FORECLOSURE NOTICE WHEREAS, default has occurred in the performance of the covenants, terms and conditions of a mortgage from MICHAEL W. BLAKE, AN UNMARRIED MAN to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS INC. AS MORTGAGEE, AS NOMINEE FOR PENNYMAC LOAN SERVICES, LLC, on the 22nd day of December, 2023, said mortgage recorded
Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, on December 29, 2023, in Deed/Mortgage Book 2023, Page 59035, Elmore County, Alabama Records, said Mortgage having subsequently been transferred and assigned to PennyMac Loan Services, LLC, by instrument recorded in notice is hereby given that the undersigned PennyMac Loan Services, LLC, as Mortgagee/ Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash at the main entrance to the Elmore county courthouse located at 100 E Commerce Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092 in Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on July 9, 2025, during the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit:ING TO THE MAP OF THE OAKS AT EMERALD MOUNTAIN PLAT NO. 2, AS SAID MAP APPEARS OF RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THEMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA, IN PLAT BOOK 10, AT PAGE 90. Said legal description being controlling, however the property is more commonly known as 45 HONEYSUCKLE CT, WETUMPKA , AL 36093 Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This property will be sold on an “as is, where is” basis, sub-
Public Notices
ject to any easements, encumbrances, and exceptions those contained in the records
Probate in the county where the above-described property is situated. This property will be sold subject to the right of redemption of all parties entitled thereto and subject to any outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, whether or not now due and payable). This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. PennyMac Loan Services, LLC, Mortgagee/Transferee THE BELOW LAW FIRM MAY BE HELD TO BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, UNDER FEDERAL LAW. IF SO, ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
Rubin Lublin, LLC, Attorney for Mortgagee/Transferee 3145 Avalon Ridge Place, Suite 100, Peachtree Corners, GA 30071 Telephone Number: (877) 8130992 Case No. PNY-25-01884-1 rlselaw.com/property-listing Wetumpka Herald: May 14, 21 and 28, 2025 PNY-25-01884-1 PUBLIC NOTICE THE STATE OF ALABAMA ELMORE COUNTY NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE By virtue of an execution on a judgment issued out of the Circuit Court of Elmore County, Alabama in Case No. Case No.: CV-2020-900133.00 on or about January 30th, 2025 for a total of $252,502.26 (including interest and costs as of the said date) in which David Woodget is the Plaintiff and Tyrone Williams is the Defendant, I,
conveyance is made subject to any and all encumbrances, covenants, restrictions, reservations, easements, mortgages, setback lines, mineral and mining rights of record, municipal zoning ordinances, rights of way and any and all other matters of record whatso-
has been made nor title opinion rendered. Purchasers are solely and exclusively responsible for the same and solely and exclusively responsible for the effect of the absence of any such search and/or opinion. Said property will be sold “as is” and subject to all matters of record and all matters which would be revealed by a visible inspection of the premises, as well as applicable real estate records. Title searches and ver-er, including legal descriptions, are at all times the sole and exclusive responsibility of the Purchaser. There are no warranties as to the title of the subject property, express or implied, at any time pursuant to this sale.
Bill Franklin, Sheriff Elmore County, Alabama Wetumpka Herald: May 21, 28 and June 4, 2025 SHERIFF’S SALE
Raise your hand if you want your business to make LESS money next year.
We didn’t think you would. Do you need to successfully market on a tight budget? Tallapoosa and Elmore County Classifieds has customizable programs available to fit any budget.
DON’T WAIT! Call TODAY 256.277.4219
Two non-fatal drownings occur in Eclectic
By CLIFF WILIAMS News Editor
Two Eclectic juveniles were pulled from a swimming pool by friends and bystanders Monday afternoon.
“We very nearly had a double fatality today of two young high school students,” Eclectic EMS director Alan Nummy said.
The Eclectic Fire Department received a call at 1:35 p.m. Monday about two juveniles drowning in a swimming pool. Within five minutes, an Eclectic ambulance was on the scene.
“Both juveniles had been pulled out of the water by other juveniles and possibly an adult,” Nummy said. “There is no doubt they saved lives.”
Nummy said the five minutes were critical. He said they might have lived but it would not be good.
“Those extra five minutes under water are critical,” Nummy said. “If you are submerged and have to be treated, it’s called a non-fatal drowning.”
The two juveniles were transported to local hospitals.
Based on a Facebook post one of them has been released and one is at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham being treated.
Nummy said the two juveniles are lucky.
“It’s the first drowning patient I have had to live,” Nummy said.
The EMS director recalled a weekend several years ago where a toddler drowned on back to back days.
“That was a rough weekend,” Nummy said. “We could have had that happen today.”
Nummy said Eclectic has two ambulances.
“One is staffed 24/7/365,”
Nummy said. “The other is staff when we have licensed crew available. That was the case today and we had two respond.”
By CLIFF WILIAMS News Editor
By CLIFF WILIAMS News Editor
torian Robbie Grace Bolton was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. But the journey has opened
New fire truck coming to Eclectic FD
By CLIFF WILIAMS News Editor
Volunteer fire departments are stretching every dollar they have.
They must do exactly that with the cost of equipment so high and fire trucks costing in the $1 million or more range.
All departments look for ways to raise money and save money where they can. The Eclectic Volunteer Fire Department saw a need for an aerial.
“It would allow us to put water on fires at large buildings such as churches, homes and businesses such as Madix,” Eclectic fire chief Josh Dorminey said. “Putting water on fire like that can help put it out and help keep it from spreading.”
EFD had its dreams of a fire truck with a ladder or tower. New ones can cost close to $2 million now and are mostly out of reach for small departments.
Dorminey and the department worked with a broker in north Alabama to keep an eye on available trucks. That’s when a great deal came up on a truck from Virginia with a 70-foot aerial.
“A fire department was getting a new fire truck and they had this truck,” Dorminey said. “They had an order and were going to sell this one.”
The department decided to buy the low-hour used truck at a cost of $150,000. New it is $1.5 million.
EFD struck with fire department speed. They flew to Virginia and decid-
ed to purchase the truck in January 2024. They created a list of issues that needed to be fixed. Then, they had to wait for the new truck to be delivered.
Again, they visited the truck to make sure
practitioner and specialize in rheumatology,” Bolton said. “It means a lot to me.”
Bolton’s journey with rheumatoid arthritis started in 2023 with what was supposed to be an ankle sprain. But after weeks of rehab, rest and treatment, there was no improvement. A couple months later labs presented her with the chronic
GRADUATION
Continued from B7
their students.
any issues had been addressed. The body of the firetruck and equipment can be moved to a new fire truck chassis if the current one gets beyond repair. In the last two weeks they took
illness.
“I now want to make an impact on other children in similar situations,” Bolton said.
She has learned to compete in volleyball and basketball and manage her rheumatoid arthritis.
“It mainly affects me after activity,” Bolton said. “I’ve learned what medications help best when being active and how they need to change when I’m not playing.”
Juvenile arthritis wasn’t the first major thing Bolton has had to deal with her
delivery of the truck and showcased it at Mayfest, where the department was selling hamburgers as a fundraiser.
“We still have a bunch of payments for it and we need to outfit it,” Dormin-
ey said. “We have some of the equipment needed to put on it, but can use more. It can respond to a fire and we can hook a hose to it.”
The truck is capable of putting 2,000 gallons
life. She came to Eclectic schools in the sixth grade. A fire destroyed her home in Holtville. For months Bolton and her family lived in a hotel before landing in Eclectic.
There Bolton found her community.
“There’s just a big community here that makes everyone feel like family and provides unlimited support and resources,” Bolton said. “They really help you succeed in everything you do.”
Bolton has enrolled in Southern Union State Community College for nursing and will continue her education
a minute through its aerial, both manned and unmanned.
“This will serve us for many years to come,” Dorminey said. “It will be one of our first out trucks.”
to Auburn University, all for her journey to help children like her. Bolton’s education journey might be a little shorter than others. Thanks to dual enrollment, she is technically a second semester sophomore in college.
“I took all the AP classes I could. I took all the dual enrollment classes,” Bolton said. “Actually, this year I only had one class on campus because I took all dual enrollment classes. I maintained a 4.0 GPA. It was all A’s in my dual enrollment classes, and I ended school with a 4.45 GPA.”
“He might be my son, but they are all my kids,” Eason said. “I’m proud of what all of them have done to get here.”
Eason said he tried as best he could to let his son be a
But what happens at graduations when the lines between family and staff blur? That’s the case for Elmore County High School principal Jason Eason. In this case, Eason is taking on both roles, being dad to Jaden Alan Eason and celebrating with him and being principal to the rest of the ECHS Class of 2025.
student and not his son when on campus.
“I didn’t want to treat him any differently here,” Eason said. “I try to stay out of the way when he’s in school.”
Older Eason to put aside his fatherly duties.
“He would come and sit down in my office a good bit,” Eason said. “It’s been a really good experience.”
The Easons shared a moment at graduation. There was more than just a hand shake. While Eason went up to get his diploma, older Eason moved his son’s tassel to the left and embraced him with a hug.
They now share graduating on the same field, from the same school. The only difference is new turf on BurtHaynie Field.
Next year, the older Eason will come back and do it again with the Class of 2026. But the countdown to graduation will be a little different.
“Normally, this time of year, I’m tired and worn out,” Eason said. “I’m like let’s get through graduation. This year, I didn’t want it to stop. It’s been great. I’ve loved it.”
CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI
The Eclectic Volunteer Fire Department recently took delivery of a new-to-them tower truck. The aerial will aid in fires of large structures and help prevent fire spreading to other structures.