Wetumpka Herald May 7 2025

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 gatherings but the chamber celebrated the successes of business in Wetumpka.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

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

There is now a $15,000 reward in the 1998 disappearance of

See CHAMBER, Page A3

Time management has always been a known key to success. It is no different for two Wetumpka High School students. Juniors Christian

Project seeks to preserve rare music

WETUMPKA

Holtville’s Futral Alabama principal of the year

MIDDLE CELEBRATES MULTICULTURALISM

Staff Report

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Music from Elmore County was carefully documented Friday.

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 could soon be a part of an online archive at the Birmingham base Southern Music Research Center.

“Our mission is to document and preserve the

legacies and culture of this region,” director Burgin Mathews said. “We have a special kind of investment and interest in Alabama music history, but our focus is Southern more broadly.” Mathews and the Southern Music

“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.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Tthe 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

about five years ago.”

he globe took on a different shape at Wetumpka Middle School for Multicultural Day.

Students, parents and staff celebrated the many different backgrounds of the students and staff at the school. It is all part of an idea of Spanish teacher and Puerto Rico native Jessica Tapia.

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

Hosted by the WMS Spanish Club, the Multicultural Day is open to everyone. Students did their own research and made displays about what they learned. Some students represented their own countries.

See PRINCIPAL, Page A3

students from Wetumpka High School as well.

“We had 57 countries from six continents represented here,” Tapia said. “They all go from table to table learning from each other about the other countries.”

“I once depended on my son to translate for me what teachers were saying,” Tapia said. “This grew from an idea

They learned about various countries’ history, culture, food and famous people. Students then created presentation boards with what they learned. Some even prepared food from their country of study. The students also welcomed the ESL and exchange

Mexican parents prepared Horchatas, which is a drink with rice, milk and cinnamon. Others fixed pastries. While others brought candy only found in their country. Band students performed music from the various countries.

See WETUMPKA, Page A6

CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI

Billie Rawls talks about some of the pieces of music and other related items she has collected over the years. She brought part of her collection to be scanned by the Southern Music Research Center as it hosted its first community archiving event.

CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

Wetumpka High School juniors Georgia Wyatt, left, and Christian Spruril pose for a photograph in the commons of the school The juniors scored a perfect 36 on recent ACT testing.

CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

Mexican parents of a Wetumpka Middle School student pose for a photograph at the school’s Multicultural Day.

Police Reports

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

MAY 1

• Jody Jones, 57, of Wetumpka, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

APRIL 30

• Jennifer King, 42, of Montgomery, was arrested for theft.

• Jaci Sumner, 20, of Wetumpka, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and chemical endangerment.

APRIL 29

• William Crowe, 54, of Deatsville, was arrested for failure to appear.

• Marcus Woods, 48, of Montgomery, was arrested for possession of marijuana.

• Rilla Woodard, 37, of Wetumpka, was arrested for two counts of failure to appear.

• Kevin Andrews, 29, of Millbrook, was arrested for three counts of failure to appear.

APRIL 27

• Jeffery Taylor, 60, of Alexander City, was

arrested for possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

APRIL 26

• Malik Johnson, 23, of Wetumpka, was arrested for second-degree rape, production of pornography with minors and possession of marijuana.

APRIL 25

• Melissa Greeson, 60, of Troy, was arrested for two counts of failure to appear.

• A’niya Russell, 20, of Montgomery, was

arrested for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

APRIL 24

• Joann McCray, 54, of Montgomery, was arrested for two counts of failure to appear.

• Theft was reported on Dun Mar Way.

• Domestic violence was reported on U.S. Highway 231. APRIL 22

• Disorderly conduct and resisting arrest was reported on Red Eagle Drive.

Fire started by inmate at Tutwiler

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

A fire was reported at Tutwiler Correctional Facility last Tuesday.

According to the Alabama Department of Corrections, an officer noticed smoke coming from a cell area during rounds.

“Support staff responded with fire extinguishers, 911 was called and all inmates were removed to a safe location,” ADOC said. “The

Wetumpka Fire Department arrived on scene and extinguished the fire.

Inmate Cierra Janay Jackson was identified as the suspect that started the fire.”

Jackson was escorted to the Health Care Unit where she was treated for minor burns to both hands. Four correctional officers were exposed to heavy smoke inhalation and were also treated at the Health Care Unit.

The Law Enforcement Services Division is investigating the incident. Jackson, 26, is serving a 104-month sentence for Distribution of a Controlled Substance out of Etowah County.

Volunteers clean up park before swimming season

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Corn Creek Park is all clean again.

Volunteers from Coosa River Keepers and Coosa River Paddling Club came together to clean up trash from one of the only public access points to the river in the area.

Lonnie Carden is a Coosa River legend and visits the park regularly through the paddling club. During the warmer months, the paddling club can be found picking up trash there on Saturdays.

“I went out there a few days ago and saw trash,” Carden said. “I made a post that we needed to get back out there and clean it up.”

Carden showed up with a tractor. Other volunteers came armed with bug spray, hiking sticks and garage bags.

They spent the morning picking up litter, anything from socks to bottles and fast food wrappers.

The park is leased by Elmore County to the paddling club, a non-

profit. The club took on the park to give others access that might be gated off.

“We pick it up to dispose of it properly,” Carden said. “We try to protect this park as much as we can. It’s free to use and is a favorite swimming hole of many.”

Carden is hopeful others will take notice of how clean the park is and not throw things on the ground. “We want to be able to continue allowing the public to enjoy this place,” Carden said. “It is such a wonderful place for everyone to enjoy.”

Downtown trees dedicated to memory of those who made a difference

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

It’s a habit of the City of Wetumpka to celebrate Arbor Day in early May by dedicating trees to the memory of someone who made a difference in Wetumpka.

It’s a project forester Ron Hilyer has been in the middle of for almost three decades. The city approached him to help celebrate Arbor Day planting trees.

“There are trees all over the place on city property planted in memory of local citizens who have passed,” Hilyer said. “They are in Gold Star Park, at the Wetumpka Sports Complex, at the hospital and in downtown.”

Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis said planting trees is a great practice by the city.

“We have a lot of trees to die and we have to cut them down,” Willis said. “This is a way to replant trees and then dedicate them to someone who helped make Wetumpka a better place.”

This year the city dedicated three trees in downtown, all to people who left their mark along its sidewalks and businesses.

A Chinese pistache was

as a real estate agent and then as an artist when he came back for retirement. Some of his most recognizable work can be found throughout the city.

“Don Sawyer left his mark on this city,” Willis said. “You can go through after this city and you will find a fish with lipstick on in practically every business in town. We always were able to work together and get through whatever situation it was. He was a unique guy who had a heart for Wetumpka.”

dedicated to Richard Rogers of Cooper House Deli in the front door of the sandwich shop. A crepe myrtle was dedicated to Don Sawyer just outside his former shop on Company Street. A Japanese maple was dedicated to founding Kelly Fitzpatrick Center for the Arts board member Sylvia McConnell in the new Fall Line Overlook Park just outside the art museum she helped start.

Willis said the trees and their markers help tell the story of not only Wetumpka but behind Wetumpka’s renaissance.

Willis said Rogers

moved to the area because of the military and fell in love with Wetumpka.

“He had the opportunity to purchase the building,” Willis said. “We didn’t know what he was doing but he took his time to put this place together. He did a great job and created a successful business. This business means a lot to the redevelopment of downtown.”

Don Sawyer’s building is noticeable anywhere. He covered it in flowers and his famous Hollywood fish.

Willis said Sawyer worked in Wetumpka in two different stints, first

The small and delicate Japanese maple represents a lot of what McConnell did in Wetumpka. Willis said she was a dedicated supporter of the arts in Elmore County and was a life long educator in Elmore County Schools for 37 years.

“Her work here is remarkable,” Willis said. “She greatly improved everything she touched.” McConnell made an impact at the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce and the Wetumpka Depot Players.

“She was always volunteering her time for local festivals and youth programs,” Willis said. “She and her husband Chick made a difference in our community.”

CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis helps dedicate a tree in memory of Don Sawyer in front of Sawyer’s old studio on Company Street.

JACKSON

CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

Corn Creek Park is now clean after volunteers from Coosa River Keepers and the Coosa River Kayaking Club cleaned it up recently.

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Their future is our

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

This National Pet Week as well as Be Kind to Animals Week — bringing attention to that special bond between pets and people. Pets are a huge part of our lives. They provide companionship and unconditional love no matter what the circumstances. They listen to us, cuddle with us, give us a ride on a trail, protect us, and some offer therapy assistance and med-

ical services. After all they do for us, this is the week to revisit how we can give back to them by being a responsible pet owner.

1. COMMIT

• Avoid impulsive decisions when selecting a pet.

• Select a pet that’s suited to your home and lifestyle.

• Keep only the type and number of pets for which you can provide appropriate food, water, shelter, health care and companionship.

• Commit to the rela-

tionship for the life of your pet(s).

• Provide appropriate exercise and mental stimulation.

• Properly socialize and train your pet.

2. INVEST

• Recognize that pet ownership requires an investment of time and money.

• Make sure your pet receives preventive health care (vaccinations, parasite prevention), as well as care

for any illnesses or injuries.

• Budget for potential emergencies.

3. OBEY

• Clean up after your pet.

• Obey all local ordinances, including licensing, leash requirements and noise control.

• Don’t allow your pet to stray or become feral.

4. IDENTIFY

• Make sure your pet is properly identified (i.e., tags, microchips, or tattoos)

Beauregard is 3 ½ year old male, possible Walker Hound/ Beagle mix who weighs only about 35 pounds. He showed up as a stray at a house and was brought to us. Beau is a silly boy, will beat us and even himself up with his tail when he is excited. He amazingly responds to ‘come’ and also seems to know the commands, “Lay down” and “Sit.” He loves playing fetch and is a very

sweet boy. The Humane Society of Elmore County’s adoption fees are $100 for dogs and $50 for cats under 1 year old. Cats over 1 can be adopted by approved adopters for a fee of their choosing. This adoption fee covers the mandatory spay or neuter, basic immunizations, deworming, microchip, heartworm check for dogs, rabies vaccination if old enough and a free health exam

with your participating veterinarian.

If you are interested in meeting Beauregard or any of the pets at HSEC, the first step is to fill out an adoption application online. Once approved, you will be contacted by someone from the humane society. HSEC is located at 255 Central Plank Road in Wetumpka. The phone number is 334-567-3377 and the website is www.elmorehumane.org.

Ivey announces $7.6 million in funding for road, bridge projects

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

Gov. Kay Ivey on Wednesday announced more than $7.6 million in state funding is being awarded to cities and counties for 26 road and bridge projects across Alabama, highlighting her ongoing commitment to enhancing Alabama’s infrastructure.

According to a press release from the Office of Gov. Kay Ivey, the grants are the first round of funding made available this year under the Alabama Department of Transportation’s Annual Grant Program created by the Rebuild Alabama Act. The Rebuild Alabama Act, overwhelmingly passed by the Legislature and signed by Governor Ivey in 2019,

requires ALDOT to establish an annual program setting aside a minimum of $10 million off the top of the state’s share of gas tax revenue for local projects. Additional funding will be awarded later this year.

In Elmore County, the Rebuilding Alabama funds will go toward resurfacing 2.38 miles worth of six city streets. The total for the project is $250,560 with $250,000 coming from state funding and $560 coming from local funding. “Alabama is on the move, and through Rebuild Alabama, we’re laying the foundation for a stronger, safer future,” Ivey said. “Thanks to our sustained investment, a recent national study ranked Alabama as having the second-best roads in the country. From resurfacing

rural routes in Lamar to widening major highways in Cullman, we’re not just paving roads, we’re paving the way for opportunity.”

Of the awarded projects, cities and counties also contributed more than $5.6 million in local matching funds. All projects are required to move forward within one year of the awarding of funds. Since the passage of the Rebuild Alabama Act, ALDOT’s Annual Grant Program has awarded more than $63 million in state transportation funding for local projects. For more information about the Annual Grant Program, visit the program’s dedicated webpage at https://www.dot.state.al.us/programs/RAAGrantProgram.html.

and keep its registration up-to-date.

5. LIMIT

• Don’t contribute to our nation’s pet overpopulation problem: limit your pet’s reproduction through spay/ neuter, containment or managed breeding.

6. PREPARE

• Prepare for an emergency or disaster, including assembling an evacuation kit.

• Make alternate arrange-

ments if you can no longer provide care for your pet.

• Recognize any decline in your pet’s quality of life and make timely decisions in consultation with a veterinarian. We take all the above to heart when doing our adoptions so that our pets can go to their best possible homes because their future is our priority.

Cord is the executive director of the Humane Society of Elmore County.

A4 • Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Mental health is just as important as physical

health

When discussing health and wellness, there’s one thing that always comes up — physical wellness. From eating a balanced diet, to exercising daily, there is always a conversation about maintaining physical health. But overall health includes everything in addition to physical health — one factor being mental health.

Although becoming a common topic in today’s society, mental health is often seen as something separate from physical health. Because we can’t see our mental health, it’s often encouraged to just push through various issues, or to get over different emotions.

However, mental health is just as important as physical health. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, nearly 60 million Americans experience mental illness — that’s 1 in 5 adults. While mental illness is often seen as more severe illnesses, such as schizophrenia or psychosis, mental illness is much more common than most realize.

Severe anxiety, major depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and other personality disorders all fall under the umbrella of mental illness. People with these disorders might not think they have a mental illness, but they do.

Although they can’t be seen by the naked eye, mental illnesses are real and require treatment, just like physical illnesses. Those who have mental illnesses who go untreated can experience more severe issues.

According to NAMI, people with depression have a 40% higher risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases than the general population. Additionally, those with mental illnesses are also likely to abuse drugs, struggle in school or in their careers and can experience problems with the people in their lives.

With May being Mental Health Awareness month, take better care of your mental health on a daily basis. That can look like anything from going on a daily walk, journaling, spending more time with friends and other leisure activities. If you feel like you need to see a medical professional, take the extra step. After all, mental illness is an illness, too.

What’s your

Opinion?

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. Include name and telephone number. The text for the announcement must be in the body of the email (not as an attachment) and photographs must be sent as a .jpeg attached to the email. Announcements will appear within 10 days in The Herald or The Tribune.

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

Always keep dreaming. That’s what I learned on my recent trip to London. No matter how far-fetched a dream may seem, keep it close. Put it on the bucket list. Save the money, find a way. You never know what may happen.

Over the last few years, my father has suffered the loss of his parents. It’s changed his perspective in a lot of ways, and our relationship has blossomed since. As you all know, I also suffered the loss of my brother-in-law a little over two years ago. It has taught me many lessons, but most importantly to always put family first.

After these losses, my father decided to take my brother and I on a trip anywhere in the world. No matter how far or how distant, how off the beaten path it was, he would take us both anywhere we wanted to go. My brother chose Norway. He wanted to go hiking and see places he had never seen before. He went to Kjeragbolten and was daring enough to conquer it — look it up, you’ll be amazed. He hiked to Trolltunga and stood on top of the world.

I looked at his photos longing for my place. See, I hadn’t chosen a trip for myself then. But I thought long and hard about where I wanted to go. I

A place where childhood dreams come true

London, so we spent our weeklong holiday there. Yes, holi day — because that’s what the Londoners say.

more than I could’ve expected. Childhood dreams came true for me. It wasn’t just Stone henge either, but the little vil lage we explored called Lacock where real-life Harry Potter scenes were filmed. It was eating at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, a three-Michelin star love affair with food. It was exploring Bath, where fudge was created, and sitting at that little Asian cafe with my dad sipping mocktails and cham pagne (for him).

Former Lt. Governor and State Leader George McMillan passed away Easter weekend in Birmingham. George was 81. McMillan had a meteoric career in Alabama politics. He grew up in Greenville where he had extensive family connections. He was a young, superstar politico coming out of high school. He went to Auburn University, where he was a sensational student leader. He was President of the SGA. He met and became good friends with another student leader at Auburn, our current Governor Kay Ivey. Kay and George are the same age and were political allies, remaining good friends through the years. George must have been an outstanding student at Auburn because he went to the prestigious Virginia Law School after college. After graduating from UVA Law School, George came back home and settled in Birmingham and began the practice of Law. He married Ann Roper Dial, whose father was a prominent Birmingham businessman. He and 40-year veteran State Senator Gerald Dial of Lineville were close. Gerald was George’s chief legislative ally during George’s tenure as Lt. Governor. Shortly after beginning his law practice, a State House seat came open in Jefferson County. George won that seat. In the next election, young Mr. McMillan slayed a giant. The most powerful State Senator in the state, George Lewis Bailes, hailed from Jefferson County. George McMillan took him on in what most folks thought was a David vs. Goliath match. George McMillan won and made a statewide name for himself. He went to Mont -

knew it had to be spectacular. There’s so many places in the world I long to explore. I love books and documentaries about the planet and what it has to offer. Eventually, though, I settled on Stonehenge. Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve been fascinated by Stonehenge. Weird, I know. I vividly remember when I was in elementary school, we had a project in which we had to create a structure out of Styrofoam. I chose Stonehenge. I painted it and built it as best I could. I never dreamed I would actually be there. But just two weeks ago, I really was. I stood amongst stones that had been there for 5,000 years. Mysterious stones that have always caught my attention.

However, what I quickly realized in planning my Stonehenge experience was you can’t exactly spend a week there. There’s quite literally nothing around. Even the visitor center is a bus ride away, or a beautiful 30-minute walk through the Salisbury Plains. It’s just a day trip from

The moments like seeing one of those red telephone booths for the very first time or hav ing a meal where Princess Diana used to frequent. And it was the big moments, like seeing the studios where the Harry Potter series was filmed or riding the London Eye and getting to see the sights from 135 meters in the air. What London taught me is simple: Dare to dream. You never know what might come true.

gomery and became a very effective and respected State Senator.

McMillan only served one term in the Senate, 19741978, because he was on a fast track. He was elected Lt. Governor in 1978. After one term as Lt. Governor, he again revealed that he had no reluctance to take on a challenge or a giant. He ran against George Wallace for Governor in 1982 and came within an eyelash of beating him in the Democratic primary that year. In 1982, Governor Fob James decided not to run for re-election. Former Gov. George Wallace was attempting to be elected to a fourth term as Governor, after having waited out four years due to being term limited. McMillan and Wallace wound up in a run-off. Wallace ironically won the Democratic run-off because he received the bulk of the Black vote – a political irony that is still difficult for national political historians to fathom and understand. Wallace went on to win the General Election in a landslide, defeating Republican Montgomery Mayor Emory Folmar. Winning the Democratic Primary at that time was tantamount to election.

McMillan was often compared to another former Lt. Governor and short-term Governor, Albert Brewer. Similar to McMillan, Brewer had all but beaten Wallace in a titanic Governor’s race a decade earlier in 1970. Both Brewer and McMillan were heralded

Lizi Arbogast Gwin is the managing editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. She can be reached at 434-962-9420 or via email at lizi.gwin@alexcityoutlook.com.

Remembering George McMillan

as having the potential to give Alabama a “New South” Governor. McMillan made a second attempt for the governorship in 1986, but he failed to gain traction. He was beaten out of the two run-off spots by Lt. Governor Bill Baxley and Attorney General Charlie Graddick. Neither Baxley nor Graddick would become Governor. Guy Hunt, the unknown Republican candidate from Holly Pond in Cullman County, won the Governor’s office. Hunt became the first GOP Governor of Alabama since Reconstruction. That 1986 election ended the Democratic Party reign in Alabama politics. The days of electing a Democratic Governor in the Heart of Dixie ended that year and probably forever. That year also marked the end of George McMillan’s political career. In 1989, McMillan founded City Stages, a large musical festival in downtown Birmingham. It became one of the largest and most renowned musical festivals in the nation. George ran City Stages for a decade during its prime years. George McMillan was a vivacious person with a gregarious, warm, genuinely friendly demeanor. He was a friend, and I always enjoyed visiting with him and talking politics. In fact, it can be said and is seldom said about someone who spent their life in politics, I never heard anyone say, “I do not like George McMillan.”

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

STEVE FLOWERS Columnist

Linger Longer is back in downtown Wetumpka

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The weather for Fridays in May is always pleasant. It’s warm but not hot and muggy — just the perfect time to wander around downtown Wetumpka, especially with Main Street Wetumpka’s Linger Longer.

The event has been brought back with a simple idea in mind.

“We want people to realize how special downtown Wetumpka is,” Main Street Wetumpka director Haley Greene said. “We have some amazing shops and restaurants all right here.”

Greene said Main Street has brought Linger Longer for the month of May to encourage locals and more to come downtown to enjoy music provided by local businesses and walk around to see what all the downtown

area has to offer. Friday night saw David Jones in The Alley and Madeline Mae near Court Street providing live tunes for everyone.

“We have such a cute little town,” Greene said. “We want everyone to be able to experience it.”

Greene said downtown businesses will stay open later on Friday nights for Linger Longer to give shoppers even more time to find the next cute dress or shirt for a husband.

“We hope people will visit the shops and restaurants,” Greene said. “We have had some new things open up and it all makes for a great reason to keep coming downtown.

The Shoppes Downtown recently added a men’s wear section and it was an attraction Friday night.

“There has been a lot of interest in the new men’s collection,”

p.m. Music is sponsored by local businesses. Some nights there will be two acts performing and always somewhere downtown, where everyone can take advantage free of charge.

Restrooms in the works for city properties

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The City of Wetumpka is collecting information to potentially build public restrooms.

At the Monday meeting of the Wetumpka City Council, it approved a professional services contract with Larry E. Speaks & Associates for topographic surveys and site plans for restroom

facilities.

“This would be at the planned parking area off Company Street near downtown, Level Park, the tennis courts at the Wetumpka Sports Complex and Crommelin Park,” Mayor Jerry Willis said.

The expenditure allows for the development of plans to construct a pad to host a portable building for a restroom

facility.

The council held a public hearing for the rezoning of lots along Company Street across from Our Place. Without any public comment, the council approved rezoning from Business 1 to Residential 3.

The council also approved an agreement with KNOWink Poll Pad Systems to install and set up electronic poll books

for the upcoming municipal election.

The following items will be considered at the next meeting after they were read in an open meeting for the first time. First, the mayor would be authorized to sign a franchise agreement with Southern Light. It was discovered they had installed fiber optic internet cabling on the city right of way. The second

CommunityCalendar

item is the replacement of four internet access points at the Administration Building and two at the Wetumpka Sports Complex at a cost of $6,559.66.

IN OTHER ACTION THE WETUMPKA CITY COUNCIL:

• Approved minutes of the April 21 meeting.

• Approved the Backto-School sales tax hol-

iday for July 18 to July 20.

• Approved Alabama Auto Culture to host Cars on the Coosa on Aug. 23.

• Approved the Elmore County Civic Improvement League to host Juneteenth Fest at Gold Star Park on June 21.

The next meeting of the Wetumpka City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, May 19.

APRIL 24 -MAY 10

UNNECESSARY FARCE: The Wetumpka Depot Players are presenting Unnecessary Farce from April 24 to May 10. Go to www. wetumpkadepot.com for more information and tickets.

SATURDAY, MAY 10

MAY MARKET: Eclectic the Beautiful will host its fourth annual May Market from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 10. It is a fundraiser for the organization and will feature more than 75 vendors ranging from food, crafts, artwork, jewelry, paintings, wreaths, bows and more. There will also be food vendors.

CRAWFISH BOIL & MUSIC

ECLECTIC TOWN COUNCIL

month. For more information, visit www.thekelly.org.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

GRACE POINT: Celebrate Recovery meets at Grace Point Community Church at 78223 Tallassee Highway in Wetumpka each Tuesday at 6:15 p.m. All are welcome to the meetings which provide a safe and loving environment for individuals seeking to conquer their hurts, habits and hangups. For more information, visit www. Gracepoint.info or contact Gwin Greathouse at gwingreathouse@ gmail.com.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY

FESTIVAL: The Reeltown Volunteer Fire Department is hosting a crawfish boil and music festival beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday May 10 at 19700 Highway 49 South Notasulga. Music will include Jeff Bates, Andy Griggs, Russell Craig, Devin Moon, Jeff and the Johnsons and Shades of Gray. Admission is $35 and food is separate.

BATTLE OF THE BRUSHES: Sunshine and Pixie Dust is hosting Battle of the Brushes at the Wetumpka Depot Saturday, May 10. It is a live painting competition. For more information go to www. wetumpkasbattleofthebrushes.com.

MEETINGS: Eclectic Town Council meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at Town Hall. Council meetings begin at 7 p.m. with work sessions taking place prior to the meeting at 6 p.m. Meetings are held in the Dr. M. L. Fielder Municipal Building, 145 Main Street.

NAACP MEETINGS: The Elmore County Branch No. 5026 of the NAACP meets at 6:30 p.m. every third Tuesday (executive committee) and every fourth Tuesday (full membership) at the Martin Luther King Center at 200 North Lancaster St. in Wetumpka.

SANTUCK: Celebrate Recovery meets each Thursday at 6:15 p.m. at Santuck Baptist Church at 7250 Central Plank Rd. This is a Christcentered, 12-step program for anyone struggling with hurts, habits, and hangups. Call 334-567-2364 for more information or contact jyates@ santuckbaptist.org.

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS: Gamblers Anonymous meets Saturdays at 6 p.m. at Cedarwood Community Church at 10286 U.S. Highway 231 in Wallsboro/ Wetumpka. Call 334-567-0476 for more information.

JULY 7-11

YOUTH THEATER CAMP: The Wetumpka Depot Players is hosting a musical theater camp for ages 8 to 15 July 7 to 11. Send an email to kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com for more information.

JULY 14-27

YOUTH THEATER CAMP: The Wetumpka Depot Players is hosting a two-week teen intensive camp for ages 13 to 18. Send an email to kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com for more information.

ONGOING

SUPPORT GROUP: The last Thursday of every month, Restoration 49 Coffee Shop plays host to a support group for parents who have lost a child. The meetings begin at 6 p.m. each month. For more information, please contact Heather Baker at hbakerjj@aol.com.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME: Preschool Storytime takes place at 10 a.m. every Friday at Wetumpka Public Library.

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

RED HILL COMMUNITY CLUB

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

OF CHRIST: Come join us at 4530 Mt. Hebron Road in Eclectic. Our Sunday school begins at 9 a.m. followed by worship service at 10:30. There is also a Wednesday night Bible study at 7 p.m. For more information call Pastor Edwin Walker at 334-541-2025

LUNCH AND LEARN: Lunch and learn Tuesdays with Kelly are scheduled at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery at 124 Company Street in Wetumpka from noon to 1 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each

AA MEETING: Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held Mondays at 7 p.m. located at 105 Tuskeena St. in Wetumpka. RED HILL SCHOOL: The Red Hill School on Highway 229 in the Red Hill Community in Tallassee is open Fridays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. for local live music performances. No admission is charged but donations are welcomed to maintain the building and pay for refreshments.

MASTER GARDENER

HELPLINE: If you have gardening questions you can call the Master Gardener Helpline at 1-877-2524769. The helpline starts March 1 and ends in August.

CHILDREN’S HARBOR: Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store Located on state route 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of children’s harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334-857-2008 for more information.

owner Pam Martin said. “We like how people are coming through downtown on a Friday

evening.”

Linger Longer is each Friday from 5:30 to 7:30

CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

Artist Anita Winter was in the Art Town Gallery during Main Street Wetumpka Linger Longer giving a demonstration. Linda Lee will be in the gallery this Friday.

WETUMPKA

Continued from A1

Leading a program such as the Multicultural Day at Wetumpka Middle School is a long way from when Tapia came to the U.S. She had to depend on her then five-year-old son to translate for her in the schools. Tapia is now the school’s Spanish teacher and Spanish Club advisor. It’s the club responsible for organizing the event.

“I just do it for the students,” Tapia said. “We want to spread culture around like knowledge. It is a big world. There are so many different cultures in not only the U.S. but Alabama. We can all learn from one another.”

MUSIC

Continued from A1

Research Center were at Wetumpka’s Kelly Fitzpatrick Center for the Arts to scan and copy music, photographs and more at its first community archiving day.

“It went extremely well,” Mathews said. “We have been very fortunate to have some connections with Elmore County Black History Museum, with the Wetumpka Public

Library, with the Elmore County Historical Society and Museum. They’ve all helped us connect with people in the community.”

Library director Susan Hayes brought an artifact of significance to The Kelly to be scanned. Sheet music composed by Wetumpka native Florence Golson Bateman, who was born in 1891. She was a composer, musician and teacher, who went blind as a teenager.

“This was hanging up in the library,” Hayes

said. It is such pieces that Mathews is looking for.

“We are looking for those rare pieces that are not readily available to the public,” Mathews said. “We are creating an archive with them that can be accessible to the public and searched.”

Elmore County Black History Museum curator Billie Rawls was there going through her personal collection of music memorabilia. Much of hers centers around local gospel groups and a book called the Gospel Pearl.

“So many people learned songs by hearing them,” Rawls said. “This book was used to help teach those songs. Some go back to the days of slavery.”

Rawls heard about the project and spent time speaking with her friends and acquaintances to gather all sorts of information. She brought in personal hymnals, sheet music, photographs and programs. It was everything Mathews was looking for and more.

“There are so many stories here,” Mathews

Sprurill and Georgia Wyatt keep their schedules full with athletics, theater and classes. But good time management and lack of sleep from time to time have put the two on the radars of every college as they both recently scored a 36 on the ACT. It’s the top score available on the college entrance exam.

Both expected good scores but not necessarily the 36 after testing previously and working to improve. They took the test early this spring at the school as part of a requirement for the Alabama School Report Card.

“I noticed that I hadn’t bookmarked more than two questions,” Sprurill said. “I realized that I’ve gotten most of them right. I was expecting like a 33 or 34 on it. The 36 was unexpected.”

Sprurill just started Wetumpka High School in August. He moved to the area from Germany as his parents are in the military. Sprurill was more familiar with SAT but he paid attention as faculty staff prepared students for the test.

Through advisory periods, Sprurill and Wyatt rotated through different classes touching on different sections of the ACT.

“We had a science class, language arts class, a math class and a writing class,” Sprurill said. “Those just gave us extra knowledge and

REWARD Continued from A1

en route to the Maness BP Convenience Store

said. “It’s just so amazing.” Mathews and his crew scan numerous items and were set up to copy records and cassette tapes.

Within a few hours, Mathews was calling the Southern Music Research Center’s first community archiving event a success.

“We didn’t know quite what to expect,” Mathews said. “We had some good connections here. Elmore County really did come out to support us. I can see a

practice tests gave us advice on how to approach the ACT so that we could do the best we could.”

Wyatt had taken the ACT last summer. She scored a 33, but didn’t consider herself well prepared for it.

“I just kind of went online and studied some because it was summertime,” Wyatt said. “To be honest, I didn’t really want to study a whole lot and I just wanted to see how far I could get without studying.”

Wyatt said she has always excelled in science and English.

“My heart is not always into math,” Wyatt said. “Math was my lowest score.”

Wyatt also took advantage of school resources, especially the available online programming. She said it aided in getting her math score up to give her a 36 this time around.

Sprurill and Wyatt are two of about 250 juniors at Wetumpka High School. The 36 score though is more rare when you look at the 1,374,7891 Class of 2024 students who took the test across the nation according to PrepScholar. The average composite score was 19.4 out of 36. It means a score of 20 is slightly above average. Scores of 34 and above put a student in the 99th percentile. Only 3,041 students or .22% got the perfect 36 ACT score. About three times as many students scored 35, the next best score.

Both students are enrolled in four or more AP classes for their junior

located at the corner of U.S. Highway 231 North and Redland Road in Wetumpka. Kegley had her two-year-old daughter with her.

The following morning at 9 a.m., her 1993 Geo Storm was found abandoned on Old Georgia Road (Elmore County Road 170) across from the T&H Grocery, with Kegley’s 2-year-old daughter left unattended inside the vehicle. Kegley’s personal items, including her purse and identification, were found at the scene.

Kegley has not been heard from since.

On February 25, 2018, a search warrant was executed in Elmore County,

section in the archive for just Elmore County.” Mathews plans to bring the project back to Elmore County at some point to do more archiving.

“We will definitely come back for some of the collections we heard about,” Mathews said. “They make it worthwhile for the trip. We hope we can do another public event like this, but we will also be happy to make arrangements to pick items up to scan and then bring them back. It is all so very valuable.”

year and are scheduling in a similar way for their senior year.

“I’m looking at getting the first two years of college out of the way here,” Sprurill said. “I don’t want to have that cost.”

They also balance other activities with their studies. In the past week Sprurill traveled to compete in the AHSAA State track meet. His speciality is the 100 hurdles but also runs the 300 hurdles and is on the roster for the 4x800 relay. He follows a priority plan that aids him in keeping up his studies and managing his time.

“Finish what’s due the earliest, first and then like, do whatever you do for fun afterwards, like extracurriculars,” Sprurill said. “You have to focus on school but also need to prioritize family and friends spending some time for yourself. So, do your school work first and then, after you finish what you need to finish for tomorrow, you can relax a little.”

Wyatt is going through tech and dress rehearsals with the Wetumpka High School theater program as they get ready for Bright Star. Rehearsals started after school and have run to about 9 p.m. the last couple of weeks. She gets home and gets back into the books, often turning out the lights after midnight, only to start a new day again before 7 a.m. But she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“It’s a fun experience and it’s worth all the work we put into it,” Wyatt said. “It is kind of hard trying to get homework done some days.”

based on information from confidential sources received from CrimeStoppers, leading law enforcement to believe evidence may be found pertaining to a missing person’s case from 1998. As a result of this warrant, a major search of approximately 300 acres of property in eastern Elmore County was searched by multiple law enforcement agencies.

A total of $15,000 is now being offered for information leading to the arrest in this case. The reward is $10,000 from the Governor of the State of Alabama and CrimeStoppers will pay $5,000 within 30 days from the actual arrest.

Previously, $10,000

was offered by Traci Pittman Kegley’s parents, and $4,000 from an anonymous donor, CrimeStoppers cannot confirm if these rewards are still active at this point. If you have any information regarding this case, please immediately call police or CrimeStoppers using its 24-hour tip line at 334-215-STOP (7867) or 1-833-AL1STOP (833- 251-7867). Text 215stop to 738477 to receive a link to the anonymous tip form. Those with information can also download the P3-tips app. Make sure to get a Tip ID and password to dialog with Investigators in case there is a follow-up question.

CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

Puerto Rico native and Wetumpka Middle School Spanish teacher Jessica Tapia dances with students from the school as it hosts Multicultural Day.

Messing up a good conspiracy

If you were planning to fool a bunch of people that an event happened (when it actually did not happen), then how would you go about doing it? Experts on conspiracy theories say that if you want a conspiracy to work, then you want to make the event as private as possible, and you want to include the smallest number of people as possible. Otherwise, it will be a failed conspiracy because those factors would increase the chance of being caught in a lie. Let us now run the reports of Jesus’s appearances after His death through this filter of “privacy” and “few in number.”

Eminent Bible Scholar Peter Williams has meticulously documented how public these events were.

He writes, “The resurrected Jesus is recorded as appearing in

Judea (Mt 28:9; Lk 24:31, 36) and in Galilee (Mt 28:16–20; Jn 21:1–23), in town (Lk 24:36) and countryside (Lk 24:15), indoors (Lk 24:36) and outdoors (Mt 28:9,16; Lk 24:15; Jn 21:1–23), in the morning (Jn 21:1–23) and the evening (Lk 24:29,36; Jn 20:19), by prior appointment (Mt 28:16) and without prior appointment (Mt 28:9; Lk 24:15,34,36; Jn 21:1–23), close (Mt 28:9, 19; Lk 24:15,36; Jn 21:9–23) and distant (Jn 21:4–8), on a hill (Mt 28:16) and by a lake (Jn 21:4), to groups of men (Jn 21:2; 1 Cor 15:5,7) and groups of women (Mt 28:9), to individuals (Lk 24:34; 1 Cor 15:5,7–8) and groups of up to five hundred (1 Cor 15:6), sitting (Jn 21:15 implied), standing (Jn 21:4), walking (Lk 24:15; Jn 21:20–22), eating (Lk 24:43; Jn 21:15), and always talking (Mt 28:9–10, 18–20; Lk 24:17–30,

36–49; Jn. 20:15-17, 19-29; 21;6-22)” (from “Hope in Times of Fear” by Tim Keller,pg.10).

Where did they see Jesus after He had died? They saw Jesus, in laymen’s terms, “Here, There, and Everywhere!” Who saw Jesus after He had died? Lots of different people saw Jesus after He had died.

What is the point?

The point is this: If the disciples were making up Jesus’s appearances after He had died for the purpose of deceiving others, then they were hurting their case because they have Him reportedly appearing in so many different public places among so many different people (the Apostle Paul said that Jesus appeared to “over 500 people, many of whom are still alive today…” in 1 Corinthians 15:6).

It would be too easy to falsify these events with these many

appearances among this many people. Proving His appearances as false would be as easy as sliced butter. The disciples would have served their supposed false cause better by having the story that Jesus appeared one time, in a private room, to one or two disciples.

This, however, is not the case for the appearances of Jesus Christ.

I want to argue that one evidence that His appearances are real (and there are many sets of evidences not mentioned in this article) is that Jesus lived publicly, He taught and performed miracles publicly, He was beaten and crucified publicly, and then He was placed in a public tomb (where anyone could find Him), He was then not found in that public tomb, and then He began to appear publicly in many settings to many individu-

BILLY REINHARDT

Pastor

als. Privacy does not define the birth, life, death, resurrection, and appearances of Jesus Christ. While it has been noted in several scholarly works that naturalistic explanations surrounding Christ’s resurrection have all failed, we can take the famous Sherlock Holmes’s statement to heart: “When you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.”

Billy Reinhardt is the pastor of Riverside Heights Baptist church in Tallassee. He lives in Tallassee with his wife, Jessica, and their four children. He blogs at www.billyreinhardt. com where he writes articles on matters of faith, family, and culture.

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

up strife, but love covers all offenses. – Proverbs 10:12

Off to the races

Wetumpka to face off against top talent, familiar foe

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

For the last several years, Wetumpka has become familiar with Baldwin County on the softball diamond. So the Indians know what they’re up against, and that’s namely

pitching ace Madilyn Bird. “She’s probably the best pitcher in (Class) 6A, if not across the state,” Wetumpka coach Daryl Otwell said.

“Obviously, we got a tough, tough draw right off the bat. The biggest thing is our pitchers are going to have to

Holtville eyes consistency in Day 2 of regionals

By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter

The Holtville softball team opened the AHSAA Class 5A Regional Tournament with bats on fire. However, ending Day 1 hoping for more.

The Bulldog opened with Jemison in the first game, roaring out to a 14-2 win with the game seeing a premature ending in the fifth inning.

The racked up eight hits, three coming from Bailea Boone alone. Laylin Graham picked up two hits while Kylie Snowden, Holley DeVaugh and Megyn Burnett picked up one each.

The day started early for Holtville, jumping out to a nine-run lead over Jemison through two innings of play. However, things started to slow down according to coach Reese Claybrook.

“Came out early in the first game, were aggressive, set the tone,” Claybrook said. “Put up nine there to start with. Then, you know, kind of sat on our hands a little bit, but picked up the pace back in the first game.”

The dip in offensive production reared its head in the second game against Beauregard, with the Hornet taking the 5-0 victory. Compared to the eight hits Holtville compiled against Jemison, the hit total was cut in

half, finishing with four hits. Boone picked up one more hit with Burnett coming in for three hits herself.

Although things did not go exactly the way the Bulldogs were hoping on Day 1, Claybrook knows it won’t be a problem going forward, considering the circumstances.

“I think it’s more so a mindset,” Claybrook said.

“I don’t see that being an issue tomorrow, because, you know, it’s seasons on the line. You don’t really have a choice to fall back. You got to get after it the entire time. So, I think that’s something you really have to remind the girls of going into tomorrow.”

Holtville’s regional experience is ultimately what’s going to play to its benefit. The Bulldogs will have to walk into Day 2 of regionals and win three games — something Claybrook knows they can do.

“Tomorrow is gonna be a grind,” Claybrook said.

“(We) put ourselves in the spot (where) we gotta win three in a row; we’ve done it this year. We’ve had days where we’ve played several games in a day and had to win multiple in a day. It’s the fine line of playing with emotion, but not playing emotional, understanding what’s at stake.”

Holtville opened Day 2 of the regional tournament against Elmore County.

SAMUEL HIGGS | TPI

Holtville’s Avery Goff fires a throw to first base in Game 2 in the AHSAA Class 5A Regional Tournament.

give us a chance, and we’re going to have to manufacture runs to the best of our ability.”

Otwell is fully expecting a low-scoring affair when the Indians face off against Bald-

FILE TPI

is expecting a low-scoring game against Baldwin County in the opening round of the AHSAA Class 6A Regional Tournament today.

FOOTBALL IS IN THE AIR

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Wetumpka High School

football opened spring practice with special teams.

The opening kick went through the uprights but the placement of the drill only points that special teams are still an emphasis for coach Bear Woods. Two years ago it was the Indians’ Achilles heel.

“We got offense, defense and ‘WE’fence, special teams,” Woods said. “It’s a place where everyone gets to contribute under the one TRIBE philosophy.”

Outside of quarterbacks and some of the linemen, everyone took reps covering kick returns Monday as spring practice opened. The extra effort on ‘WE’fence paid dividends for Wetumpka last season.

“We blocked 11 kicks last year, scored three different touchdowns and set up another two,” Woods said. “We expect to be impactful there. We will spend time doing it. It’s a good time for us as a team. You get offense and defense working together. That’s the ‘WE’fence part of it.”

Last year James ‘Bobo’ Browning made a huge impact

for the Indians on special teams. He is currently injured and coming over to football from baseball.

“He had 27 tackles on kickoff last year,” Woods said. “He also started on offense and on defense for us at different points in the year.”

Wetumpka returns a core group of players especially in the trenches. But the Indians lost impact players that they must replace.

“We graduated 32 touchdowns last year,” Woods said. “We have got to grow impactful players.”

Even on the defensive side of the ball they lost single season tackle record holder Kelvin Walker, defensive back Justin Goblin linebacker Logan Guard and Ethan Baylor in the defensive line. With losses, Woods was pleased to see 35 freshmen out last week during a boot camp of sorts. It made Monday’s practice much smoother allowing offensive plays to be installed.

But more importantly, it allows more and better competition.

“Everything we do is compete, every drill, every rep and every moment,” Woods said. “We say, ‘Win the moment.’ That is we want guys to want to

compete, coaches to bring that competition and then go to Opelika and compete.”

Woods is looking forward to the competition between players, even at quarterback. He expects Kymani Clary and Charles Skipper to compete for the starting role. Skipper got the start for the Indians last year against Pike Road.

“He put up 500 yards of offense and took it down to the wire as a freshman with them,” Woods said. “Clary gets the edge at the moment. But it will be a competition and Baker Pouncey will compete as well.”

While building the next set of impactful Indians, Woods is also instilling character through the word heart.

“We have got to have a heart,” Woods said. “Everyone uses that, but I’m trying to define it for the guys. It’s not accept mediocrity. That’s what heart is to me. We talk about humility, effort, attitude, reliability and toughness. Those are just going to be our values that we’re going to cling to them to make better men and a better team.”

The Indians will travel to Opelika for a spring game May 16. The format will feature three quarters of junior varsity play and three varsity quarters.

SEHS exudes resilience to advance to semifinals

By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter

There is probably no better definition of resilience than the Stanhope Elmore baseball team this year.

The Mustangs hosted the Spanish Fort Toros for the third round of the playoffs, and in Game 1, it was anybody’s game. Both teams went scoreless through the first four frames before the Toros got two runs

on the board. The Mustangs responded with two runs from Jacob Tharpe and Adam Wooten, where yet against the Toros posted two more to put themselves in the lead. Stanhope Elmore found itself down heading into the bottom of the seventh inning with a one-run deficit when it was able to put up some late-game heroics. A single to bring in Hayden Anderson tied things up and advanced Tristen Wilson to third base. Jordan

Jones came up to bat, hitting a perfectly placed bunt to advance Wilson in for the game-winning run to take Game 1 of the series.

“I mean, just never gave up,” Stanhope Elmore head coach DK Shuman said. “They just competed. And that’s one thing that’s been their calling card all year, for us, is just they don’t quit. They’re resilient. They keep playing and keep playing, and

CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

Wetumpka coach Bear Woods watches for spacing as his team opened spring practice with place kicks.

Indians open spring practice, looking to grow more impact

Wetumpka coach Daryl Otwell

See RACES, Page B2

SAMUEL HIGGS TPI

Stanhope Elmore’s Tyler Woodham celebrates after a strikeout against Spanish Fort.

See RESILIENCE, Page B2

Holtville’s Edwards staying close to home with Faulkner

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Picking Faulkner

University was a simple choice for Holtville’s Clifford Edwards.

It was close to home for the defensive tackle and center.

“There were some other schools that were talking to me, but they were like 10 hours away,” Edwards said. “I wanted to be near home to be able to coach up my 10-year-old brother.” There were other familial connections offering a reason to stay at home as well, not all of them blood related.

“He’s been in the schools here in Holtville for 13 years,” Clifford’s mother Lashona said.

“He’s been playing ball with some of his teammates since he was seven.”

Clifford was speaking with staff at Faulkner through his junior year. He and his family took a visit last summer. The timing worried Faulkner admissions counselor Megan Smithson.

“There isn’t as much going on campus during summer,” Smithson said.

“He came on anyway.”

The visit solidified Edwards commitment to the Eagles. It showed as Smithson made her rounds to area schools recruiting students for Faulkner’s various programs.

“At college day here, he came to say hi,” Smithson said. “He quickly came back with a few friends. A little bit later he brought more friends. Several of those friends are going to Faulkner.”

Smithson said Edwards’ fall will be full with football, but she wants him

as an ambassador in the spring.

“He is such a great recruiter,” Smithson said. “I want him to come back to Holtville next spring to convince those in the next class to come to Faulkner.”

Holtville football coach Corey Lee said it’s always great to be able to celebrate the hard work play-

ers put in to get to the next level. The first year coach noticed something in Edwards when he walked onto campus last year.

“You will always see a big old smile on him at school,” Lee said. “He never misses class. He will always want to give you a hug. He is a great leader and a large reason behind our success last season.”

Edwards former coach

Jason Franklin remembered Edwards from seventh grade football.

“The one thing he told me is, ‘I want to play college football,’” Franklin said. “But the landscape has changed so much in college football. I really didn’t know if Cliff would have the opportunity.”

Edwards worked hard on and off the field. He kept his head high and was always smiling, uplifting others.

“The good Lord saw to it that he would have the opportunity,” Franklin said. “You’re not going to find a better young man.”

TJ Clary leads county at state track meet

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

Winning a team championship is no easy feat.

But winning an individual state championship might be even harder.

That’s exactly what Wetumpka’s TJ Clary did this weekend at the AHSAA Class 6A Track & Field Championships. Clary cleared 6-8 in the high jump to take the gold medal.

The Indians had several finishers climb the podiums in Gulf Shores as well. Kymani Clary was the next highest finishers for the boys, as he jumped 46-0.5 in the triple jump to take fourth overall. In the shot put, JD Denmark placed fifth with a throw of 50-0.

On the girls side, Jamirayah Smith was the highest finisher, taking fourth in the 100-

RESILIENCE

Continued from B1

they don’t care what the

meter dash in a mere 12.31 seconds. Jada Walker earned fifth place in the 200 with a time of 25.48, and Tremya Thomas took sixth place in the javelin (116-3).

In Class 5A, Holtville and Elmore County both had state placers.

Holtville’s Jesse Thomas earned fourth place in the discus with a throw of 146-3.

For ECHS, Jackson Mann was fourth in the 800 (1:59.79). On the girls side, Ally Orr took fifth place in the javelin (103-3).

Tallassee’s best Class 4A finish came in the relays as the boys 4x100-meter relay finished in 43.76, good enough for third place.

Tra’mel McCoy also showed out, earning a fourthplace finish in the 110 hurdles (15.40). He also earned a field medal, taking eighth in the triple jump.

score is. They just don’t give up.” The momentum carried over into Game 2, with other than one

NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE SALE

Please take notice

Top Storage - Wetumpka located at 960 AL-170, Wetumpka, AL, 36092 intends to hold a public sale to the highest bidder of the property stored by the following tenants at the storage facility. The sale will occur as an online auction via www.storageauctions.com on 5/15/2025 at 10:00AM. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.

impressive inning for the Mustangs, it was practically a stalemate. While each team racked up strikeouts for most of the game, it was the Mustangs’ discipline at the plate that propelled them to a victory.

At the top of the second inning, Stanhope Elmore had the bases loaded. In an at-bat that never seemed to end, Mack Boswell faced a full count while fouling off five pitches in a

RACES

Continued from B1

row before drawing the walk for the first score of the day. Bases were still loaded with Jackson Stallworth coming up to bat, where he narrowly missed out on a grand slam, bringing in three runs in the process.

“They’ve been disciplined all year, it goes back to the same way that they’re unfazed and all facets of the game they don’t get rattled,” Shuman said. “They understand that it’s a

win County at 10:45 a.m. today.

And as familiar as Wetumpka is with playing in the regional and state tournaments, the Indians also have a pair of very young pitchers who are going to have to get into their grooves quickly.

Otwell said it’ll be a game-time decision who gets the start.

“It’ll either be our eighth-grade pitcher Sophie Arant or sopho-

long game and that the inning that gets away from you is only because you let it get away. It goes the same way with their approaches, I might have got out the last time, but this new count, new AB. I get another chance.”

Stanhope Elmore is now knocking on the door of a state championship appearance with a series against Chelsea looming in the distance. Even so, the goal

more Abigail Adams,” Otwell said. “The biggest thing when you go into a game like this and play a pitcher of this caliber, you automatically as a coach think it’s going to be a low-scoring game.

So the challenge for the young pitchers that don’t get a lot of strikeouts is they got a to do a good job of getting groundballs and flyballs, and then the defense has to play really well behind them.”

As for the offense, Wetumpka is used to scoring a lot of runs. How-

remains the same for Shuman and the Mustangs — competing until the very end.

“I just wanted our guys to continue to compete,” Shuman said. “Throw strike one and make the plays they’re supposed to make. Dominate the routine plays, throw strikes and give us a chance. We can hang around, find a way to win it at the end. That’s what we’ve been doing a pretty good job of.”

ever, against Bird, Otwell knows it’s going to be most important to take advantage of every opportunity presented to the Indians and to stay focused the entire game.

“We just have to try to creat that opportunity for us to get a big hit and you always have to have that mindset,” Otwell said. “In the realistic world, when you face a pitcher of that talent level, you don’t go out there and expect 10 or 12 runs, right? You expect it to be a low score and well-rounded defense is going to be needed.”

CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI

Holtville’s Clifford Edwards, center, signs to play football at Faulkner

University as his mother Lashona and father Willie look on.

SUBMITTED TPI

Wetumpka’s TJ Clary climbs atop the podium after winning first in the AHSAA Class 6A high jump this weekend.

Seniors reminisce, walk through Holtville schools

FFA RODEO FILLS NEW ARENA

Chen announces intention to run for state auditor in 2026

By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Reporter

The next general election will be here before you know it. Although it is more than a year away, candidates are beginning to announce their intentions to run for various government positions, one of them being Derek Chen.

Although not a lifelong resident of Alabama, Chen discovered his love for the state of Alabama in law school when he moved to the state from California.

“I moved to Alabama to go to law school at (Samford University Cumberland School of Law),” Chen said. “Not long after, I moved to Birmingham, and I just absolutely fell in love with Alabama, and I knew that’s where I wanted to spend the rest of my life. After I graduated from Cumberland, I set up shop and practiced law in Jefferson County.”

During this time, he pursued his master’s degree in Business Administration at the University of Alabama.

Now that he has extensive law and business

experience under his belt, he feels compelled to serve Alabama — he intends to run for Alabama State Auditor in the 2026 General Election.

“I think it’s important we have transparency and efficiency in government and make sure that the taxpayers’ resources are being used properly,” Chen said.

“The state auditor’s job primarily entails keeping track and inventory of physical state property that has the market value for $500 or greater.”

Additionally, the state auditor sits on several

boards, including the State Board of Adjustment and the Penny Trust Fund Board. The state auditor is also responsible for appointing registrars in 66 counties in Alabama.

“I think that’s a very overlooked but important part of the job,” Chen said. “Registrars are the only officials in the state of Alabama that have the authority to add or remove anyone from the voter rolls, so I think it’s important to get good, competent and qualified folks in those positions that understand the importance of election

SUBMITTED | TPI

security and integrity and maintaining the rule of law.”

Throughout his education and career in law and business, Chen believes he has developed skills to fulfill the responsibilities of the role.

“One of the really important things I’ve realized in my career is the importance of being very thorough and very meticulous,” Chen said. “I think that it’s so important that we have a state auditor that puts a lot of focus on being sure that our property is being kept track of

very meticulously, and that nothing slips through the cracks. Oftentimes, (people) lose touch of how all the taxpayers’ resources actually belong to the people, and not the agency — ultimately, it belongs to the citizens. I think it’s important that we have folks that keep track of the state’s property like that would keep track of their own property.”

Although born and raised in the United States, Chen’s family history goes back to the Chinese Civil War. “My great grandparents were soldiers in the Chiang Kai Shek Army during the Chinese Civil War,” Chen said. “They fought the communists during the war, and as the communists started taking over large areas of China, Chiang Kai Shek and his military retreated to the island of Taiwan. So my great grandparents, with my grandparents, who were kids at the time, retreated to the island of Taiwan — that’s where my parents were born. In the late 1970s, the United States switched diplo-

matic ties from Taiwan’s government to China’s government.

“When that happened, everyone in Taiwan thought the communists were about to come over and invade Taiwan. Everyone who could get out, got out, and my grandparents went through the legal process, applied for their visas and immigrated to the United States with my parents.”

His family’s immigration to the United States is ultimately what inspired him to get his name on the ballot.

“I have been a lifelong Republican,” Chen said. “I think it’s so important to have strong constitutional conservatives in all levels of government. Oftentimes, the focus is on big national offices, but really state and local offices have a lot of impact on the people. I think that it’s so important for me to make sure that our folks here in Alabama are well represented, have competent representation and have somebody who’s going to roll up their sleeves, do the job and do the job effectively.”

ECHS takes 3rd, Holtville 4th at state fishing tournament

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

It was an exciting weekend for Elmore County’s fishing teams as Elmore County High School placed third in the large-school division and Holtville captured fourth in small schools at the Alabama Student Angler Bass Fishing Association state championships. The teams had to overcome rough weather on Saturday that ultimately shortened the tournament, but the Elmore County teams shined through. For ECHS, the Panthers were sitting in just fifth place heading into the state championships but had their second-best showing of the year on Lake Martin this weekend to move into third. The top boat for Elmore County just snuck into the top 10 as Sam King and Keith Roberts finished ninth overall in the individual standings,

which are not separated into divisions. King and Roberts’ big fish weighed a staggering 4.12 pounds but still managed to be only the second biggest catch in the tournament. The duo totaled 12.40 pounds on Martin.

Elmore County also got a strong finish from Eli McGhee and Abe McGhee, who placed 15th overall with 11.90 pounds. Like ECHS, Holtville also had its second-most points

of the year scored on Lake Martin. The Bulldogs didn’t put any in the top 10 but had consistent finishes across the board.

Carson Taunton and Dylan Patrick were the best anglers for Holtville on Friday and Saturday, capturing 29th place with a total of 11.25 pounds. Thomas Blakeney and Jake Thomas were just three places behind with 11.18 pounds of fish. Wetumpka struggled in

the team standings, taking 11th place overall in the large-school division. But the Indians had two really strong boats as Matthew Park and Vladimir Weaver had the third biggest fish of the tournament, weighing in at 3.74 pounds. The two totaled 11.89 pounds, good enough for 16th place overall. Finishing as the top Wetumpka boat were Adison Turner and Tensley Stever, who took 14th place.

Derek Chen announces his intention to run for Alabama State Auditor in 2026.

PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

The Holtville High School Class of 2025 stepped back in time as it began celebrating its upcoming graduation. Students dressed in cap and gown marched through the elementary, middle and high schools. A significant part of the class has been in a classroom at a Holtville school for 13 years now. Friday was a time for all to walk the halls to encourage younger students and thank staff and parents for what they have done for the seniors.

PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS | TPI

The new Priefert rodeo arena at the Wetumpka Sports Complex is officially broken in. Much like the boots, saddles and ropes used in the annual Wetumpka FFA Alumni Rodeo over the weekend, the arena saw plenty of excitement. There were children holding on to sheep for mutton busting, calf roping, steer wrestling and barrel racing. The bull and bronc riding officially opened the chutes for the new arena that will stay in the complex for future events.

Lake River & Classi eds

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CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Lofty and profound discussions will interest you today. You

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PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA THE CITY OF WETUMPKA, ALABAMA, A MUNICIPAL CORPORATION; PLAINTIFF, V. ESTATE OF HENRY JEROME GOODMAN, DECEASED; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF WILLIE T. GOODMAN, SR., DECEASED; AND ANY UNKNOWN HEIRS OF WILLIE T. GOODMAN, JR., DECEASED; AND WILLIE T. GOODMAN III, WINFRED WISE, KONIKWA ZEIGLER BURDEN, DERIUS D. ZEIGLER TWANDA TALLEY, TYRONE LASEAN GOODMAN, DAVID D. WISE, ROBERT J. ZEIGLER, KRESTON N. ZEIGLER, PERCY (DEE DEE) EDWARDS PERSONDRA EDWARDS, AND DARRELL GOODMAN AND HILLSIDE MORTUARY; JAMES MACK; LOUTELIA J. LYKES; SPRINT C/O DCM SERVICES, LLC BEING PERSONS OR ENTITIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY HEREIN DESCRIBED IN THIS PETITION PURSUANT TO CLAIMS MADE IN THE ESTATE OF HENRY JEROME GOODMAN, DECEASED; AND MIDLAND FUNDING, LLC, AND LEE MACON, ELMORE COUNTY REVENUE COMMISSIONER; DEFENDANTS. CASE NO. 2024-117 PUBLICATION NOTICE OF HEARING TO DETERMINE PERCENTAGE INTEREST

TO: ESTATE OF HENRY JEROME GOODMAN, DECEASED; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF WILLIE T. GOODMAN, SR., DECEASED; AND ANY UNKNOWN HEIRS OF WILLIE T. GOODMAN, JR., DECEASED; WILLIE T. GOODMAN III, WINFRED WISE, KONIKWA ZEIGLER BURDEN, DERIUS D. ZEIGLER, TWANDA TALLEY, TYRONE LASEAN GOODMAN, DAVID D. WISE, ROBERT J. ZEIGLER, KRESTON N. ZEIGLER, PERCY (DEE DEE) EDWARDS, PERSONDRA EDWARDS, AND DAR-

Public Notices

gg

RELL GOODMAN, OR IF DECEASED THEIR HEIRS AND NEXT OF KIN, AND HILLSIDE MORTUARY; JAMES MACK; LOUTELIA J. LYKES; SPRINT C/0 DCM SERVICES, LLC, BEING PERSONS OR ENTITIES WHO CLAIM AN INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY HEREIN DESCRIBED IN THIS PETITION PURSUANT TO CLAIMS MADE IN THE ESTATE OF HENRY JEROME GOODMAN, DECEASED; AND MIDLAND FUNDING, LLC; AND TO ANY OTHER INTERESTED PARTIES AND TO ANY UNKNOWN PERSONS OR ENTITIES WITH AN INTEREST IN SUCH ACTION. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that in the above styled cause of action the Court has received pursuant to its prior Orders, funds which are presently being the Respondents to this action.

The property which was the subject of this action is certain real property located in Elmore County, Alabama, described as: LOTS EIGHT [8] AND NINE (9) OF THE GADDIS SUBDIVISION AS SHOWN BY PLAT RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA, IN PLAT BOOK 2, PAGE 80. Being the 2022 Elmore County Ad Valorem Tax Parcel No. 16 01 12 4 001 008.001

Court has scheduled a hearing for purposes of determining who is entitled to receive a part of the funds being held by the Court and determining the percentage interest of each such Party. Such hearing has been scheduled for a hearing to be held at the Probate Court at 100 East Commerce Street, Wetumpka on June 26, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. You may appear and be heard at such hearing.

JOHN THORNTON SPECIAL JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Name and Address of Attorney for Petitioner: JUSTIN D. EDWARDS, ESQ. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, PC 109 East Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 514-1011

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 23, 30, May 7 and 14, 2025 2024-117

PUBLIC NOTICE

FORM OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that Mobile Communications America, (Contractor), has completed the Contract for Construction of Elmore County Emergency Communications District-ITB Number 2024-01 at Kowaliga Tower Site 4731 Mt. Hebron Rd. Eclectic, AL 36024, for the State of Alabama and the (County)of Elmore CountyEclectic, Alabama, Owner(s), settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Elmore county Emergency Communications District Mobile Communications America 4116 First Ave North Birmingham, Al 35222

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 30, May 7 and 14, 2025

COMPLETION

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 Administrator:

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

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Robert E Lee and Frieda D. Lee to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Amerigroup Mortgage Corporation a division of Mortgage Investors Corporation, its successors and assigns, dated March 6, 2010 said of the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Book 2010, Page 9513 . Said mortgage was subsequently sold,

qy assigned and transferred to Planet Home Lending, LLC. Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the undersigned, Planet Home Lending, LLC, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse in Elmore County, Alabama on May 22, 2025, during the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following describe real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, towit: A PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 36, TOWNSHIP 20, RANGE 18, CONTAINING ONE ACRE, MORE OR LESS, AND BEING MORE SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGIN AT A POINT ON THE SOUTH RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF THE ANTIOCH PAVED ROAD AT A POINT WHERE SAID RIGHT OF WAY LINE INTERSECTS THE WEST RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF THE OLD TURNPIKE ROAD, RUN THENCE IN A WESTERLY DIRECTION ALONG THE SOUTH RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SAID ANTIOCH PAVED ROAD 210 FEET; RUN THENCE IN A SOUTHERLY DIRECTION AND PARALLEL WITH THE WEST RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF THE OLD TURNPIKE ROAD A DISTANCE OF 210 FEET; RUN THENCE IN A EASTERLY DIRECTION PARALLEL WITH SOUTH RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SAID ANTIOCH PAVED ROAD A DISTANCE OF 210 FEET TO THE WEST RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF SAID OLD TURNPIKE ROAD, RUN THENCE IN A NORTHERLY DIRECTION ALONG THE SAID WEST RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF THE OLD TURNPIKE

Public Notices ROAD 210 FEET, TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.

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CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices

yg programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale will be made for the purpose of paying the same and all expenses of this sale, as provided in said Mortgage and by Alabama law. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation.

**This is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained may be used for that purpose.** Planet Home Lending, LLC, Mortgagee or Transferee

Jonathan Smothers, Esq ALAW 420 North 20th Street, Suite 2249 Birmingham, AL 35203 Attorney for Mortgagee/Transferee 25-000903

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 30, May 7 and 14, 2025 25-000903 PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE

SALE. Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Bryan T Stewart, married man, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Mortgage Research Center, LLC dba Veterans United Home Loans, on May 20, 2021, said of the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in RLPY Book 2021 Page 45494; the undersigned PennyMac Loan Services, LLC, as Mortgagee/ Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on June 11, 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, to-wit: Commence at the Northwest corner of the Northeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of Section 23, Township 18 North, Range 17 East, Elmore County, Alabama; thence North 86 degrees 19 minutes East, 640.0 feet; thence South 02 degrees 53 minutes East, 499.8 feet; thence South 04 degrees 46 minutes East, 180.0 feet; thence South 86 degrees 08 minutes West, 100.00 feet to the Point of Beginning; thence from said point go South 86 degrees 08 minutes West, 100.00 feet; thence North 04 degrees 46 minutes West, 180.0 feet; thence North 86 degrees 08 minutes East, 100.0 feet; thence South 04 degrees 46 minutes East, 180.0 feet to the Point of Beginning. Being in the Northeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of Section 23, Township 18 North, Range 17 East, Elmore County, Alabama.. Property street address for informational purposes: 152 Meadow Ln Dr , Elmore, AL 36025. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) to Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price plus any deed recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law at the address indicated below. Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. PennyMac Loan Services, LLC, (“Transferee”) Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., 2501 20th Place South, Suite 300, Homewood, AL 35223 www.tblaw.com TB File Number: 25-03880-PM-AL Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 30, May 7 and 14, 2025 25-00792 PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed on November 17, 2023 by KC Capital Private Fund 1, LLC, originally in favor of FTF Lending, LLC, and recorded in RLPY Book 2023 at Page 53281 on November 20, of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, and secured indebtedness having been transferred to Horizon Residential Income Fund 1 REIT, LLC. LOGS Legal Group LLP, as counsel for Mortgagee or Transferee and under and by virtue of power of sale contained in the said mortat public outcry to the highest bidder at the main entrance of

Public Notices

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: Commence at an iron pin at the SE corner of Lot “E” of an unnamed Plat of Lots A/F, as the same appears of record in the of Elmore County, Alabama, in South 87 deg. 00 min. 00 sec. West, along the South line of said Lot E and the North line Section 3, T17N, R17E, Elmore an iron pin on the East right-ofway of Sandtown Road, 50 feet said right-of-way, 75.71 feet to an iron pin, said point being leaving said right-of-way, South 87 deg. 25 min. 30 sec. East, thence South 02 deg. 18 min. feet to an iron pin on the East right-of-way of the aforemen-

Point of Beginning. Said parcel lying in the SW T17N, R17E, Elmore County, Alabama, and containing 0.53 acres, more or less For informational purposes only, Sandtown Road, Millbrook, AL 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 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 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. Horizon Residential Income Fund 1 REIT, LLC, and its successors and assigns Mortgagee or Transferee LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway,

Attorneys for Mortgagee or Transferee Wetumpka Herald: 25-024895-FC01

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF STACEY L. BOTTIGER, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-115 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of STACEY L. BOTTIGER, deceased, having been granted to CYNTHIA S. BOTTIGER on April 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.

CYNTHIA S. BOTTIGER PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF STACEY L. BOTTIGER, 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: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025 EST/BOTTIGER S.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE

Default having been made of the terms of the loan documents secured by that certain mortgage executed by Earnest Flowers and Valorye Barrington Harris-Flowers, ,husband and wife, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC, its successors and assigns dated April 14, 2023; said mortgage being recorded on April 20, 2023 in Deed Book 2023, the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. Said Mortgage was last sold, assigned and transferred to CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC by assignment recorded in Deed Book of the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. The undersigned, CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash before the main entrance of the Court House in Elmore County, Alabama during the legal hours of sale (between 11am and 4pm), on May 27, 2025 the following property, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 9 Block 6 Blue Ridge Estates Resubdivision, a subdivision according to a Map or Plat thereof which appears of record Probate of Elmore County, Alabama in Plat Book 4 at Page 78. Said property is commonly known as 654 Old Jasmine Hill Rd, Wetumpka, AL 36093. 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.

CROSSCOUNTRY MORTGAGE, 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. 25-06793AL www.foreclosurehotline.net

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 30, May 7 and 14, 2025 25-06793AL/96995 PUBLIC NOTICE

THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RUBY JEANETTE BRITT, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-132 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of RUBY JEANETTE BRITT, deceased, having been granted to ROBERT M. TOMLIN on April 24, 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. ROBERT M. TOMLIN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF RUBY JEANETTE BRITT, 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: Apr. 30, May 7 and 14, 2025

EST/BRITT, R.

PUBLIC NOTICE

INVITATION TO BIDDERS

Sealed proposals will be received by the Elmore County Board of Education, until 2:00 P.M., legally prevailing time, May 15, 2025 for the Wetumpka High School Cafeteria Expansion in the Maintenance Building Conference Room at the

Public Notices

g Elmore County Board of Education, 100 H.H. Robison Drive, Wetumpka, Alabama, at which time and place they will be publicly opened. A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to Elmore County Board of Education in an amount not the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000, must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Payment Bonds and evidence of insurance required in the bid documents will be required at the signing of the Contract. of the Architect, Ward Scott Morris Architecture, Inc., 1606 Paul Bryant Drive, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and TuscaBlue, 2806 Greensboro Avenue, Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Bid documents may be obtained from TuscaBlue via www.wardscottplans.com, upon deposit of $150.00 per set, which will two sets issued to each trade contract bidder submitting a documents in good condition within ten days of bid date. Other sets for contractors, and sets for dealers, may be obtained with the same deposit, which will be refunded as above, less cost of printing, reproduction, handling, and distribution. Electronic PDF copies of bid documents may be procured free of charge. Bid bonds are to be issued by an acceptable bonding company licensed to do business in the State, with a Power of Attorney, to confess judgment thereon, with the understanding that it shall guarantee that the bidder shall not withdraw his bid for the days after the scheduled closing time for the receipt of bids; that if his bid is accepted, he will enter into a formal contract with the Owner, and that in the event of a withdrawal of said bid within said period, or the failure to enter into said contract within the be liable to the Owner for the full amount of the bid guarantee as liquidated damages and not as a forfeit or as a penalty. The bid unsuccessful bidders will be returned upon awarding the contract or rejection of all bids, in no event, later than the number of days in the guarantee period from the opening of proposals. That of the successful bidder will be returned when formal contract and bonds are accepted and approved. 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; the bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying his or her current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owner’s judgment, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted. All Bidders are invited to attend a pre-bid conference to be held in the Maintenance Building Conference Room at the Elmore County Board of Education, 100 H.H. Robison Drive, Wetumpka, Alabama, at 10:00 am on May 8, 2025. The bidder’s company employee attending the pre-bidtions and experience with the construction to be performed within this project. Any questions concerning the pre-bid conference shall be directed to the Architect. Nonresident bidders must accompany any written bid documents with a written opinion of an attorney at law licensed to practice law in such nonresident bidder’s state of domicile, as to the preferences, if any or none, granted by the law of that state to its own business entities whose principal places of business are in that state in the letting of any or all public contracts.

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025

BIDS/24-095

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF STEVEN TYLER, DECEASED. CASE NO.:2025-141 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of STEVEN TYLER, deceased, having been granted to KYLE TYLER on April 24, 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.

KYLE TYLER PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF STEVEN TYLER, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: SCARLETT TRAVIS

ATTORNEY AT LAW GARRY S. MCANNALLY, LLC 50 WISTERIA PLACE MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-1976

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 30, May 7 and 14, 2025 EST/TYLER S.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE 2025 SOLICITATION FOR WEATHERIZATION AND HOUSING REHAB CONTRACTORS

The Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (CARPDC) is soliciting Contractors to contractileges with our Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and all other housing programs we offer in Autauga, Elmore, Chilton, Dallas, Macon, Montgomery, Perry, Shelby and Russell Counties. New Contractors not already on list must complete the necessary application and provide proof of the following information: 1. A Building Performance Institute Approved Weatherizaor at least (5) years experience in the Weatherization Assistance Program as a contractor. (WAP only) 2. Proof of General Liability coverage inclusive of bodily injury and property damage, with limits of no less than $1,000,000.00 per occurrence and $2,000,000.00 in the general aggregate. 3. Proof of Workman’s Compensation Insurance 4. State of Alabama Business License 5. Alabama Home Builders License or General Contractor’s Licensetion Firm Status Additionally, contractors mustciency with the Blower Door Air Tightness System and use said equipment on every unit to reachduct proper pressure testing. All Contractors must be capable of providing dense-pack wall insulation measures at a 3.2 psi or higher compaction. A good quality infrared camera will be needed to check for voids in the installed insulation negating call backs which will be at the ConElectrical, HVAC and Plumbing subcontractor licenses and insurances will also be required (WAP only). Please submit requests for application to CARPDC-WAP Program, 430 South Court St., Montgomery, AL 36104, Attn: Mr. Cade Gunnells or by email to cgunnells@carpdc.com.

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 30, May 7 and 14, 2025 CONTRACTORS PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CHRISTINE AMANDA BROUMLEY, DECEASED. CASE NO: 2025-122 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of CHRISTINE AMANDA BROUMLEY, deceased, having been granted to BRITTNI BROUMLEY on April 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.

BRITTNI BROUMLEY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF CHRISTINE AMANDA BROUMLEY, DECEASED Name and Address of Attorney for Personal Representative: JIM T. NORMAN, III LAW OFFICES OF JIM T. NORMAN, III, LLC P O BOX 680670 PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36068 334-365-9955

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025 EST/BROUMLEY, C.

Selling your home? Advertise here and sell it faster. Call Classifieds at 256.277.4219.

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EDWARD MILEM CHANDLER, JR., DECEASED CASE NO.: 2025-067 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of EDWARD MILEM CHANDLER, JR., deceased, having been granted to SHAINA THORNTON on April 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.

SHAINA THORNTON PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF EDWARD MILEM CHANDLER, JR., DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Personal Representative: A.C. BULLS III ATTORNEY AT LAW A.C. BULLS III & ASSOCIATES, LLC 2801 ALTHEA STREET TUSKEGEE, ALABAMA 36088 334-727-1074 acbulls62@gmail.com

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025 EST/CHANDLER E. JR.

Public Notices

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 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 Administrator: 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 LISA MICHELLE COMMANDER, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-119 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of LISA MICHELLE COMMANDER, deceased, having been granted to LYNN COMMANDER on April 17 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.

LYNN COMMANDER PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF LISA MICHELLE COMMANDER, DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Personal Representative: W. KENDRICK JAMES ATTORNEY AT LAW 127 CAMBRIDGE COURT WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-567-8787

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025 EST/COMMANDER, L. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ANNIE PEARL CRENSHAW, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-113 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of ANNIE PEARL CRENSHAW, deceased, having been granted to STANLEY DALE YOUNG on April 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.

STANLEY DALE YOUNG PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF ANNIE PEARL CRENSHAW, 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: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025 EST/CRENSHAW, A. PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE

The Council of the City of Wetumpka will hold a public hearing during its regular meeting on Monday, June 2, 2025, concerning an ordinance to amend Ordinance 99-4, entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Wetumpka,” by: Rezoning a parcel of land located on Coosa River Parkway containing 1.14 acres, more or less and lying in and being part of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 13, Township 18 North, Range 18 East, Elmore County, Alabama and better described in RLPY 2023 pages 29997-29998, as recorded in the Probatety, Alabama. Public notice of this hearing was of the proposed ordinance on April 30, 2025, in the Wetumpka Herald.

Wetumpka Herald: May 7, 2025 HEARING 06.02.25

Selling your home? Advertise here and sell it faster. Call Classifieds at 256.277.4219.

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF BENJAMIN LEE DISMUKES, ALLEGED TO BE DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-077 NOTICE TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES OR ENTITIES, INCLUDING BENJAMIN LEE DISMUKES, THE ALLEGED DECEASED PERSON.

A Petition for Declaration of Probate Court of Elmore County, Alabama by HAYDEN BRYANT, as Petitioner, seeking to have BENJAMIN LEE DISto have HAYDEN BRYANT Estate of BENJAMIN LEE DISMUKES. Such Petition seeking

June 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Allmukes, are hereby given notice of such hearing. Such Hearing time at the Probate Court at the Elmore County Courthouse Street, Wetumpka, Alabama. Prior to such hearing you may-

er: JOHN THORNTON SPECIAL JUDGE OF PROBATE ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

KYLE C. SHIRLEY MCDOWELL, FAULK & SHIRLEY, LLC 145 WEST MAIN STREET PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36067 334-365-5924

EST/DISMUKES B. 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 EVELYN B. HOLMES, CASE NO.: 2025-110 DECEASED. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of EVELYN B. HOLMES, deceased, haying been granted to CINDY H. JONES SCHWAB and KATHERINE H. FANNIN on the 14th 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.

CINDY H. JONES SCHWAB and KATHERINE H. FANNIN

CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ESTATE OF EVELYN B. HOLMES, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for such

Co- Representatives: JOHN B. BRADLEY OF COUNSEL: VOGEL LAW FIRM, LLC 41 CAMBRIDGE COURT WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36093 334-409-0088

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025

EST/HOLMES E. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARCIA T. JOHNSON CASE NO.: 2025-024 DECEASED. NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of MARCIA T. JOHNSON, deceased, having been granted to MICHAEL D. JOHNSON on April 18, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all per-

Public Notices

yg p sons 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 D. JOHNSON PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MARCIA T. JOHNSON, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for

Personal Representative: FRANK E. BANKSTON, JR. ATTORNEY AT LAW PO BOX 239 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36101-0239 334-264-9472

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025 EST/JOHNSON, M. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JUDY B. KENNEDY, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-107 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JUDY B. KENNEDY, deceased, having been granted to CHRISTOPHER L. KENNEDY on April 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.

CHRISTOPHER L. KENNEDY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JUDY B. KENNEDY, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: LOUIS C. COLLEY ATTORNEY AT LAW PO BOX 680689 PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36068 335-365-1500

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025

EST/KENNEDY J. 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 BURL E. MURPHY, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-151 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

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 MICHAEL DENNIS OLIVER, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-126 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of MICHAEL DENNIS OLIVER, deceased, having been granted to MEGAN D. OLIVER on April 18, 2025 by D. JASON BRITT, Judge of

Public Notices

yg

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.

MEGAN D. OLIVER

PERSONAL REPRESENTA-

TIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MI-

CHAEL DENNIS OLIVER, DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Personal Representative: JOHN B. BRADLEY RIVER REGION LAW FIRM 41 CAMBRIDGE COURT WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36093

334-409-0088

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025

EST/OLIVER, M. 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 CHARLIE H. TERRELL, JR., DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-128 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of CHARLIE H. TERRELL, JR., deceased, having been granted to BETTY S. INGRAM on April 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.

BETTY S. INGRAM PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF CHARLIE H. TERRELL, JR., DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: KELLY LEE

ATTORNEY AT LAW 164 WEST 5TH STREET PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36067 334-358-0685 kellylee@kellyleelaw.com

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025

EST/TERRELL, C.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CYNTHIA DIANE WEBSTER, DECEASED. CASE NO.: 2025-105 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters of Administration over the Estate of CYNTHIA DIANE WEBSTER, deceased, having been granted to AMBER ELAINE RHODES on April 18, 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.

AMBER ELAINE RHODES ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF CYNTHIA DIANE WEBSTER, DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator:

JEREMY P. SUMMERS

ATTORNEY AT LAW 1275 CENTER POINT PARKWAY BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA 35215 205-853-3911

Wetumpka Herald: Apr. 23, 30 and May 7, 2025 EST/WEBSTER C.

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

Public Notices g 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 PUBLIC NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain Mortgage executed by Charles Timothy Wood and Joy B. Wood in favor of First Community Bank of Central Alabama, on March 22, 2019, said mortgage recorded March 29, 2019, in the of Elmore County, Alabama, and, pursuant to the laws of the State of Alabama, the undersigned First Community Bank of Central Alabama, under and by virtue of the power of sale provision and other terms contained in said Mortgage, elects to declare the entire indebtedness secured by said Mortgage due and payable, and will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder, for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse of Elmore County, Alabama, at 100 E Commerce Street, Wethe legal hours of sale on May 12, 2025, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, towit: Begin at the SE corner of the SW ¼ of SE ¼, Elmore County, Alabama; thence West along to East right of way of Statewesterly along said right of wayfeet; thence South along Quarof Beginning to Section 12, concurrently with this mortgage. The property is located in El-

Said foreclosure sale and conveyance incident thereto are subject to the legal rights of any existing federal tax liens, mortgages, special assessments, easements, restrictions, and reservations appearing of record.

GAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE

SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF -

Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumexist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said Mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a nonrefundable deposit of One Thousand Dollars made payable to Memory MemAccount at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price must be paid in

below. First Community Bank of Central Alabama 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. The sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. Address: MemS. McDonough Street, Mont-

By: /s/ Stuart H. Memory Stuart H. Memory, attorney for First Community Bank of Central Alabama

smemory@memorylegal.com Wetumpka Herald: FC/WOOD

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE 2025 SOLICITATION FOR BPI CERTIFIED QUALITY CONTROL INSPECTORS (QCI)

The Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (CARPDC-Wx) istractors to perform WeatherizaWeatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and all other -

of 15 months beginning April

CARPDC-WX and the Contrac-

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS NEW COMMUNITY CENTER FOR THE TOWN

DC-WX are completed and CARPDC-WX

ings to CARPDC-WXtests on the air tightness of theer Door target ratetermine CO levels and draftingances-

INSPECTORS

Do you have available jobs? Call 256.277.4219 to let others know about job opportunities at your business.

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 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, 334-4729650 to satisfy Operator’s lien. Everything sold is purchased AS-IS for CASH ONLY. See & bid on all units 24/7, sale ending on May 20th & May 27th 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 7, 2025 STORAGE AUCTION

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 is hereby given that the undersigned will sell for cash, at an ONLINE public auction on the 21st 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 3111:Diane Williams.68Clark St., Wetumpka, Al 36092 Contents:dresser, couch,boxes,clothes,table,end table Wetumpka Herald: May 7 and 14, 2025 STORAGE AUCTION

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Eclectic Fire Department rescues dog from fire

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Fire fighters are ready for most anything. Car wrecks — check. Fires — check.

And in the case of the Eclectic Fire Department, rescuing dogs also makes the list..

The department was paged out to a fire on Claud Fleehop Road Wednesday afternoon.

“We were told there was fire visible from beneath the home,” Eclectic fire chief

Josh Dorminey said. “Dispatch said all residents had gotten out.”

The Tallassee, Red Hill and Friendship volunteer fire departments were also paged out.

Firefighters got to the home with smoke inside and flames under it. The residents were out but two dogs remained in the home.

Inside the smoke filled home Eclectic fire fighters quickly located the first dog unharmed. The second dog was found lethargic by Tallassee firefighters and passed off to the Eclectic crew.

“We put a pet oxygen mask on him,” Dorminey

Elmore County rallies back against Demopolis

By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter

The Elmore County softball team fell victim to a slow start in the first game of the AHSAA Class 5A Regional tournament on Monday.

The Panthers opened with the Shelby County Wildcats, where they fell 6-3. It was Shelby County who struck first with two runs in the third inning, which gave them a lead to hold onto for the rest of the day.

Elmore County picked up runs from Lalha Culpepper, Addie Patterson and Kayden Edwards in the top of the fourth inning, but that’s about all the offensive output Elmore County could get.

“The first game, we kind of had a slow start,” Elmore County coach Meghan Harris said. “We didn’t come out swinging the bats, and we kind of played it kind of slow, and couldn’t get in the rhythm that first game, and kind of got defeated ourselves.”

Elmore County found its rhythm in the next game, but still fell victim to a slow start. Demopolis jumped out to a three-run lead over the Panthers until

the bottom of the third inning. They came away with a 14-4 victory, scoring seven runs in the third frame and then piling another four in the fourth.

“I think the girls kind of had a fire in them and came out, started hitting the ball,” Harris said. “They let the ball travel in some more, and started seeing it hit the bat, they just decided to start hitting. So I think when our bats are going like that, we do really well.”

Elmore County keeps its season alive with a win over Demopolis, with the Panthers opening Day 2 with Holtville. Harris keyed on keeping their bats hot, but wants to make sure their defense and pitching are still coming to play like they did in Day 1 of regionals. However, she knows that all come from being mentally tough.

“I think it’s more mentality and being mentally tough,” Harris said. “Because, I mean, most of this game is mental, and if they get in their heads and don’t come out strong with that strong mentality, then we play down. And we got to start the game off tomorrow, bats hot, ready to go.”

said. “He bounced back pretty quickly.”

The home sustained damage and the American Red Cross was contacted to help the family.

Dorminey said the department is prepared to resuscitate animals. Wednesday’s rescue was the second the department has made.

“We got the pet masks a few years ago when an organization came through offering them to fire and EMS departments,” Dorminey said. “We gladly put them on the trucks when we got them.”

PANTHERS’

YOUTH SHINES IN COMEBACK WIN OVER HOLTVILLE

By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter

The Elmore County girls soccer team remained undefeated after a come-from-behind 3-2 victory over Holtville in the AHSAA Class 5A playoffs.

It was Holtville who struck first, and second, both coming from freshman Hailey Phelps to put the Bulldogs out a 2-0 lead. However, from that point on Elmore County found its stride — scoring three unanswered goals from Cadi Crews, Delaney Hines and the game-winner from Kristina Elmore with five minutes left in the game. Even so, this is not the first time the Panthers have had to mount a comeback victory according to head coach Leslie Hines.

“Luckily, we’ve actually come back several times this season,” Hines said.

“We’re 19 wins in and no losses, and we want to keep that going. Personally, I told them at half-time. I said, ‘Y’all, we’re going to win this game. We are going to win this game.’ I felt it. We

got that last-minute goal in there before the half. And I just felt the energy change, I felt their demeanor change.”

Although the Bulldogs saw their season come to a close, John Stark was proud of what his team accomplished. They won their first-ever playoff game against Marbury the week before and took one of the better teams in Class 5A to the wire.

“We said, win or lose, we just want to leave it all out on the field,” Stark said. “And I think we did that. I couldn’t be more pleased with their effort, we’re tired. It’s been a long end of the season, but they came out, they were resilient the first half, and just got tired.”

What makes Elmore County’s season even more impressive is how young the team is. Most of the team is made up of underclassmen with only two seniors on the roster, with most having no previous soccer experience before this season.

“The only (senior) starter is our goalie, and the rest, we’ve got eighth-graders starting, ninth, 10th graders

(and) a couple of girls on the line are 11th graders,” Hines said. “I had more girls on this field tonight that have never played soccer before in their lives, and we just started really early on with basics and working together and everyone doing their job and getting better as the game went on.”

Next up for Elmore County is Indian Springs, who is a talented soccer team from Pelham that posts an 11-3-3 record this year. Hines knows it’ll be a tough task, but is more focused on how they can improve before the matchup.

“Indian Springs is an excellent team,” Hines said. “I try not to look ahead, I look at the game ahead of me that night. But at this point, we’re just going to go play the sport we love, and I’m going to coach the sport I love. I love these girls and this community of Eclectic, we’re just going to do the best we can. At this point, we have nothing to be sad about if we don’t move on to state. But that is the absolute goal.”

An Eclectic fire fighter gives a small dog oxygen after it was found in a burning home. The dog quickly rebounded.

Elmore County’s Lalah Culpepper catches a bunt attempt against Demopolis in the AHSAA Class 5A Regional Tournament.