Wetumpka Herald Feb. 12 2025

By Cliff Williams Staff Writer

Millbrook business owner arrested for filing false report

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

What should have likely been handled in civil court

landed the owner of Meeks Auto Sales under arrest.

attempted to give chase, but lost sight of the vehicle while he was attempting to call 911,” Millbrook police chief P.K. Johnson said.

alleged victim’s phone. Authorities collected Wilson’s phone as well. “You could see a conversation between the two,” Franklin said. “Mr. Wilson is going to contend someone had the security code to his phone and he was not responsible. There is other information we

Wetumpka man dies in Monday crash

Chamber holds luncheon welcoming members

By Cliff Williams Staff Writer

On Feb. 4 the Millbrook Police Department responded to a vehicle theft at Meeks Auto Sales. The owner, Billy Ray Meeks-Carter, 25, of Montgomery, advised police officers someone had taken a 2013 Dodge Charger from the business without paying for it or seeking permission to drive the vehicle.

A report for first-degree theft was filed and the vehicle was listed in a national database as stolen.

A single-vehicle crash that occurred at approximately 10:45 p.m. Monday, Feb. 3 claimed the life of a Wetumpka man. According to an Alabama Law Enforcement Agency release, Melvin Smith Jr., 62, of Wetumpka, was a passenger in the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550. He was fatally injured when the Mercedes-Benz left the roadway and struck a tree. Smith was not using a seat belt at the time of the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to the release.

The driver of the Mercedes-Benz, Madison J. Glass, 23, of Millbrook, was also injured and transported to Baptist Medical Center South in Montgomery for treatment. The crash occurred on Alabama River Parkway, approximately 2 miles east of Prattville, in Elmore County. Nothing further is available as troopers with the ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate.

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.

MEEKS-CARTER

Investigators located the alleged thief who provided documentation that they entered an agreement

“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

“(Meeks-Carter) indicated to officers that he

See ARRESTED, Page A6

See CHAMBER, Page A3

Prison design to solve some staffing issues

LEADING THE WAY FOR OTHERS

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Janice Faye Grayson

Staff Report

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals

The advertisements are everywhere from the Alabama Department of Corrections seeking staff for its prisons. Members of the leg-

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

islature say the prisons are operating at about half staff. Over the last decade, ADOC has tried to rectify staffing issues through higher pay and incentives. But even that

December 2024 at the age of 74 but her legacy carries on.

Holtville’s Futral Alabama principal of the year

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.

“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

See PRISON, Page A6

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

Brooks was one of 83 graduates from Wetumpka High School in 1966. Many graduates came before her and after her, but Brooks was the first Black student to graduate from an integrated Wetumpka High School.

Brooks was one of 12 Black students to leave W.B. Doby School in the fall of 1965 to begin integrating the Wetumpka schools. Brooks died in

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.

See PRINCIPAL, Page A3

Bishop Hurdis Bozeman is a cousin of Brooks. But Brooks was more than that.

“Our mothers were sisters,” Bozeman said. “She

See LEADING, Page A5

Police Reports

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

FEB. 5

• Deanna Cherry, 34, of Lumberton, North Carolina, was arrested for possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, illegal possession of prescription drugs and possession of imitation drugs.

• Robert Billings, 44, of Columbus, Georgia, was arrested for possession of marijuana, possession

of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, illegal possession of prescription drugs and possession of imitation drugs.

• Burglary was reported on South Main Street.

FEB. 4

• Michael Williamson, 52, of Opelika, was arrested for two counts of failure to appear.

• Eric Chartrand, 55, of Montgomery, was arrested for three counts of failure to appear.

FEB. 3

• Paul Pritchett, 64, of

Summerdale, was arrested for failure to appear.

• Burglary was reported on South Main Street. FEB. 2

• Tyashia Whisenant, 23, of Montgomery, was arrested for failure to appear.

• Mary Wright, 62, of Montgomery, was arrested for failure to appear.

• Karunakar Banka, 26, of Montgomery, was arrested for two counts of failure to appear.

FEB. 1

• Thomas Willard,

45,of Millbrook, was arrested for four counts of failure to appear.

JAN. 31

• Donald Durden, 59, of Equality, was arrested for assault.

• Darren Sanders, 29, of Wetumpka, was arrested for three counts of failure to appear.

• Anthony Draughon, 47, of Wetumpka, was arrested for six counts of failure to appear.

JAN. 23

• Theft was reported on River Road.

Traffic enforcement operation nets drugs, arrests

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The Millbrook Police Department took methamphetamine, marijuana and cocaine off the street in a recent directed enforcement patrol.

The Feb. 2 operation netted three arrests involving drugs and another arrest for a prior warrant.

“Our department was aware of activities in a particular area, which caused concern with regard to the potential for the presence of narcotics and other illegal activities to occur,” Millbrook police chief P.K. Johnson said. “As a result of that intelligence, officers were deployed with the directive to maintain a presence, conduct traffic enforcement and address any violations observed. That is standard anytime law enforcement is aware of events, which may draw large crowds of people to a particular area or venue.”

One of the arrests was notable for the amount of narcotics seized. Johnson said police officers stopped a vehicle for a traffic vio-

lation on Sandtown Road. But before it came to a stop, the vehicle’s passenger exited the vehicle and fled into a yard then moved behind a nearby residence. The driver was detained and found to have a misdemeanor warrant. Other officers responded to the scene to aid in a search for the subject who fled the car. Officers quickly found Owen Long, 42, of Millbrook.

“Utilizing a drug detection canine, officers located a bag containing various illegal narcotics and drug paraphernalia, to include methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana,” Johnson said.

Long was charged with trafficking methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, first-degree unlawful possession of marijuana, tampering with physical evidence, attempting to elude and four counts of failure to appear/comply/pay. He is currently in the Elmore County Jail

with a $1,523,000 bond available to him.

Johnson said the department received complaints during the operation about police officers making illegal traffic stops and performing driver’s license checks.

“(They said the operation) unfairly targeted people that were participating in a function that was being held at a near-by community facility,” Johnson said.

The police chief said he responded to the complaints himself and did so publicly. Johnson said police will make every effort to be present when there is a concern violence may occur. He reiterated there must be probable cause or violation observed to stop a vehicle.

“Our police officers do not stop vehicles just because they feel like it,” Johnson said. “Once officers make that traffic stop, should they encounter any other violations of criminal law, they will enforce the law by making whatever arrest is appropriate. If you’re not violating the law, you have no cause for concern regarding police presence.”

ADOC stops trespassers, drugs from entering prison

STAFF REPORT

TPI Staff

Two men are in the Elmore County Jail facing drug trafficking charges after attempting to smuggle narcotics into a state prison.

On Saturday, Feb. 1, the Alabama Department of Corrections Law Enforcement Services Division Central Region K-9 team received information relating to individuals trespassing at the Elmore Correctional Facility in Elmore.

“The team immediately responded and intercepted the suspects, who were

attempting to smuggle contraband into the prison,” an ADOC release said.

Two suspects were taken into custody and identified as Kemari Rashaun Green, 21, of Tuskegee, and Shaquan Laray Horton, 33, of Harvest. Officers also located large quantities of contra-

band to include trafficking amounts of controlled substances in the suspects’ vehicle. The contraband included marijuana, methamphetamine, various pills, fentanyl, knives, cell phones and cash.

Green and Horton were transported and booked into the Elmore County Jail with assistance from the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office.

Green and Horton were charged with trafficking marijuana, trafficking methamphetamine, trafficking fentanyl, trafficking ecstasy, trafficking hydrocodone, two counts of possession of a con-

trolled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, attempting to commit a controlled substance crime and first-degree promoting prison contraband.

This was a collaborative operation between LESD K-9 Bureau, ADOC’s Contraband Interdiction Team, and the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation is ongoing by the ADOC Law Enforcement Services Division, and additional charges are pending at this time.

Green and Horton have $4.5 million bonds available to them.

Battle of the Brushes is coming to Wetumpka

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Paint and brushes will be flying at the first ever Wetumpka Battle of the Brushes.

The live painting showdown will feature 50 contestants in a themed painting competition.

“It's like a bake off, but it's a paint off,” organizer Brittni Smith said. “There'll be 50 artists battling out on the canvas.”

Smith is following the advice of Downtown Wetumpka artist Don Sawyer, who died last year.

“Don kept on telling me to try to build the art scene long after he's gone,” Smith said. “I’m sticking to that. This is just something different to try to do. It is not like the same old kind of art show. It's something

fun to build the art community more.”

Artists will have four hours to create a masterpiece. Anybody 16 or older can register regardless of talent. There is a bonus to participating. The winner will receive $1,000, second place is $500 and third place gets $250.

“We'll provide the canvas, and we provide a table in, like an area to paint in and a chair,” Smith said.

“They can bring their own easel. They can bring their own stool, or whatever. They bring all their own paints and stuff.”

Smith said artists will not be totally blind going into the May 10 event at the Wetumpka Civic Center.

“There will be five themes that will draw from the day of the event,” Smith said. “The registered

artists will have the themes ahead of time. If I were them, I would take the themes and start sketching out ideas so when the theme is drawn, they already have an idea of what they are going to do. They won’t waste time thinking about what to do.”

It costs $35 to register. There are 50 slots available and about a dozen artists have already registered. Artists interested in participating

The judging will be blind. Artists will also have the ability to sell some of their artwork at the painting showdown.

Those interested in registering need to email wetumpkasbattleofthebrushes@gmail.com.

The event is being organized by Sunshine and Pixie Dust, Gress Consultancy and Brittni Smith Artistry.

Humane Society of Elmore County News

There’s

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

What goes on in our shelter on a daily basis?

The public sees our pets online after they have completed stray hold, medical treatment or recovery from malnutrition/neglect and after they have been cleaned up, vaccinated and generally recovered from any negative health issues they might have had. What the general public does not see is the day in, day out work our staff is doing to help so many pets recover from neglect, starvation, sickness, injuries and overall mistreatment that may have gone on for a significant period of time before they came to us. And when it comes to puppies and kittens, all will receive a minimum of two complete sets of vaccinations (some will end up with four sets just depending on how long they are with us), dewormings and parasite treatments to give them the best chance of getting and staying healthy until they go to their forever homes

On any given day we will likely have more than a few pets recover-

no down time at the shelter

ing from issues such as mange, respiratory infections, severe flea and tick infestations, intestinal parasites and poor nutrition. Pets with acute injuries are not uncommon and necessitate quick trips to area veterinarians to get the appropriate diagnosis and care. We seem to always have dogs undergoing heartworm treatment (three pending right now). Long-term neglect is not fixable overnight, so it is not uncommon for us to have a pet a month or more before it is recovered and ready to be placed for adoption.

Infestations of external and internal parasites (fleas, ticks, roundworms, hookworms, etc) can leave pets anemic and weak from the loss of blood. Young animals are at special risk and our staff often has to work fast as heavy loads of roundworms, hookworms, fleas can lead to death if not rapidly dealt with, but we also have to be careful not to shock their system so multiple de-wormings are very often required.

Refeeding a starved pet is not just putting food in front of them as they may need multiple small meals during the day to get their

recovery started. And if a pet is not eating well, you may find our staff doing special concoctions like rice and boiled chicken, hand-feeding, bottle-feeding – whatever it takes.

Many, many cats and kittens come to us with upper respiratory issues that can be from contagious cat diseases or just bad overall health from poor nutrition, internal and external parasites, and stress. Goopy eyes and runny noses are more the norm for large numbers of kittens during kitten season, and our kitty quarantine area is generally full during those months as we work to help many of these kittens get well enough to be placed for adoption.

What about all of those puppies and kittens too young to be without a mother?

Our staff whips up kitten and puppy meals geared to their needs and that means a lot of goopy foods and dirty puppy and kitten faces needing cleaned up after they eat throughout the day. That is a lot of puppy and kitten cleaning going on depending on the time of year.

If we have a nursing mother that is able and willing to take on new

babies it makes life a lot easier and we are certainly grateful for some wonderful mother dogs and cats who prove to be incredible moms.

Of course, our foster families are unsung heroes as they take on babies to raise until they are ready to find their new homes.

Shelter work is a lot more than just putting food and water down daily. There are medications, vaccinations and parasite preventives to be given, feeding to be monitored, baths to keep them clean, grooming to be done on long/matted coats, illness/injury issues to be dealt with, exercise to help their physical and psychological health, behavior assessments so that we can help pets and adopters find great matches and lots of documentation to go along with it all.

Exercise is vital for dogs and this is where our volunteer dog exercisers shine as they help us ensure our dog’s mental health by giving them daily physical exercise.

Spay/neuter surgeries have to be scheduled with all the accompanying paperwork followed

Pet of the Week - Kevin

Kevin is a 3-year-old male Basset/Lab looking mix who weighs 39 pounds, so he’s just a perfect size – not too big, not too small. He was brought to us as a stray and was never reclaimed. Kevin is super sweet, obsessed with tennis balls and playing fetch, loves toys and is great with other dogs.

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 Kevin 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.

Enhance Elmore will soon be in hands of legislature

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Local bills concerning the seven funding measures in the Elmore County Commission’s Enhance Elmore will be in the hands of the Alabama legislature this session.

Elmore County chief engineer Luke McGinty told the commission at its Monday meeting the local delegation had been apprised local legislation was forthcoming on the matter.

“We have a couple more weeks of required

advertising,” McGinty said.

Once the advertising requirement is met the bills could be handed over the legislature. At that point it is on the legislature time frame which normally means unanimous consent from the Elmore County delegation before the bills reach the floor for a vote. Only then could the commission vote to enact five of the seven funding measures in Enhance Elmore. The commission could then also set a date for the two funding mea-

sures that require a public referendum.

The commission approved bids for a new athletic plaza between the baseball and football fields at Elmore County High School as part of Phase 2 of the Quality of LIfe projects across the county.

The commission is also attempting to get residents and volunteers to participate in the Elmore County Cleanup Weekend April 4-6. It is a cause that has been championed by commissioner Henry Hines.

“We’ve already gotten several teams to sign

by photography sessions so the world can see our wonderful pets online. Of course, helping a potential adopter meet the pet they may adopt is the goal of all of this work so that we can turn our focus back to all those still coming in so we can start the process all over again.

What this means is that there is truly very little ‘down’ time in a shel -

ter as there is no end to caring for 200-300+ pets every day. But you can trust that our staff is there to help all that come to us to the best of our ability as we all love animals and work to find them better futures.

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

up,” Hines said. “Elmore County High School has challenged other schools’ sports teams in the county to sign up for the clean up.”

IN OTHER ACTION THE ELMORE COUNTY COMMISSION:

• Approved minutes of the Jan. 27 meeting.

• Approved the memorandum of warrants in the amount of $5,023,656.53 for the period Jan. 18 to Jan. 31.

The next meeting of the Elmore County Commission is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24.

Pop culture brings us together

Every year, award shows come and go. Superfans watch excitedly to see if their favorite singer wins an award, and others watch just to keep up with the banter. Like clockwork, social media blows up with either celebrations from fans or disappointment. Despite whether or not you think someone should have won an award, this presents an opportunity to learn about a different artist, or a different music style you might not have discovered otherwise. While arguments might come about surrounding outcomes of an award show, remember it is just an award show. The value of a piece of art should not be determined by an award or how many people like it; rather, it should be enjoyed for what it is — art. Instead, enjoy award shows for what they are. Funny moments transformed into memes weeks after the show, thrilling performances done by artists and other key moments are what should be remembered from award shows. After all, they’re what bring us together after the show. Despite unwanted outcomes, these moments give us opportunities to use today’s pop culture as a way to garner discussions with others who have similar interests.

While the awards might not always go the way we want them to, award shows give us the opportunity to build community and discuss varying opinions. At the end of the day, awards won are not what matters. What matters is appreciating the hard work put in by the artists.

17 Springs will be impactful

Get ready Millbrook, Elmore County and the River Region.

The opening of the second phase 17 Springs next week will prove to be a decisive moment in the growth of Elmore County.

With its fields, courts, track and fieldhouse 17 Springs will attract sports teams from across the state and Southeast with its easy access. On top of that, it will have a retail district with hotels to capture tax dollars from guests who will be visiting the complex. Those guests will also visit other parts of Millbrook, Elmore County and the surrounding area.

The more than $100 million price tag to create a tennis complex and diamond fields worthy of hosting NCAA tournaments, soccer fields to attract regional youth, high school and college tournaments and a stadium and fieldhouse complex to host football, track, basketball, wrestling and volleyball is expensive. But it will soon show its value.

It has already taken about half of the Blue Gray Tennis tournament from Montgomery. It is also forcing Montgomery to look at refurbishing its parks such as Lagoon Park just to stay on the radar of tournament organizers.

It will also allow the growth of youth sports locally through an adequate facility to learn and train.

The tax dollars it creates are funding quality of life projects across Elmore County.

Many have questioned why Elmore County, the City of Millbrook and others have so heavily invested in the project.

To me the answer is clear.

Because of my son and travel soccer

CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

I have had the opportunity to travel around to many athletic parks and fields.

Some have just one field carved into a hill. We arrive just before the game and leave soon after. Most often we spend our money on food elsewhere.

Others are fields created by a parks and recreation department but lack parking and facilities to host the tournaments its 14 fields contain. We pack our lunch and a tent for shade between games.

Others such as the Hoover Met have us spending a few hours there. There is some food there and nearby shopping.

However, this past weekend we had a chance to see 17 Springs on steroids at the LakePoint Sports park just north of Atlanta. It’s a 1,300 acre complex that we really only saw a small part of. We saw and played full field soccer on its eight MLB regulation baseball fields. The park has shaded fullchair back seating. There are cameras and radar guns to watch and measure pitchers and batters.

There were also games on several multiuse fields. At any given time there were 20 or more soccer games going on at once. All the fields were lit with LED lighting and covered in artificial turf to help with maintenance and playing soon after rain. There is also a 170,000 square foot facility with a wooden floor for 12 simultaneous basketball

games or 24 volleyball games.

The complex also has 10 beach volleyball courts and three small lakes with cable drives for wakeboarding.

There are partnerships with Publix, Academy, Wilson, Coca-Cola and local vendors.

There are restaurants such as The Varsity and Chick-fila in the complex. There are hotels, a bowling alley and gas stations.

I could see where an athlete and parent could stay for days. In fact I talked to one this past weekend at LakePointe that has. He has a son who plays travel baseball. Last summer alone, he traveled from Alabama and spent 20 nights in the complex. He worked remotely in between games using the complex’s Wi-Fi network, even from the stadium seating.

The park’s location has a chance to capture teams from Chattanooga, Atlanta, Charlotte, Birmingham, Huntsville and more. The father saw teams come from Dallas, Indiana and further in his time there.

I can only imagine what 17 Springs will do with its central location and commercial district that is nearing completion.

I thought 17 Springs was a large project until LakePointe. Given its central location just a couple hours from anywhere in Alabama and even Atlanta, my fear now is 17 Springs might not be large enough.

Cliff Williams is the news editor of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc.’s Elmore County newspapers. He can be reached at cliff.williams@thewetumpkaherald.com.

The Book of Love

Iwonder who wrote the book of love?

This week, we have another one of those hijacked holy days, like Halloween and St. Patrick’s Day, that have origins on the Christian calendar but got secularized.

Saint Valentine lived during the 200s, and his story as a defender of romantic love has been told for nearly 2000 years.

Valentine was a bishop in the Roman diocese of Terni. He was born and raised in Interamna, and spent his life and career there.

In those days, Roman rulers frowned upon marriage because they felt that soldiers who got married would turn soft and not be the warriors the Empire needed them to be. Valentine, however, performed dozens of undercover weddings and got himself in trouble. Valentine loved God and he loved people, and was always available to lend assistance to anyone who was in love.

MICHAEL BIRD Columnist

Claudius II was leading Rome at the time, and it was still illegal to be a Christian. As a matter of fact, Claudius was well known as a persecutor of Christians. On February 14, 273 (AD), Valentine was temporarily in Rome when he was captured and thrown into jail. Claudius actually took a liking to his prisoner – until Valentine attempted to convert the Emperor to Christianity. Claudius had Valentine condemned to death. He was beaten with clubs. They stoned him. But miraculously, these efforts failed to kill him. Soldiers then dragged Valentine outside the Flaminian Gate, where he was beheaded.

The story of Valentine, martyred on the Flaminian Way, became legendary. Around the 14th Century, Geoffrey Chaucer and his circle of friends began researching the story and helped to build upon Valentine’s legend in their writings.

In 1836, Fr. John Spratt, a famous preacher from Ireland, was given a reliquary from Pope Gregory XVI. The reliquary was placed in Whitefriar Street Church in Dublin, where it has remained to this day. It features the remains of St. Valentine and a small vessel of his blood.

While the world may see Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to indulge in candy and give cards to classmates, it is interesting to note that the man who gave the holiday its name actually sacrificed himself many years ago. He did it all for love.

Michael Bird is a music teacher at Faulkner University.

took me on as a little sister when my older sister died.”

There were sleepovers and more. Bozeman said Brooks modeled what it meant to be a good person.

“She was loving and nice,” Bozeman said.

“She didn’t meet a stranger. She encouraged us to do well. She taught us to be kind even if you are not treated fairly.”

Along the way, Brooks gave Bozeman her birthstone ring because they shared a birthday month.

“She said she wanted me to have something nice,” Bozeman said.

Years later Bozeman gave Brooks a diamond ring with crosses to return the favor.

Brooks was the first Black person to receive a high school diploma from Wetumpka in 1966, but Bozeman didn’t get to see the moment.

“Many of the family didn’t go to the graduation, including myself,” Bozeman said. “They didn’t want me to see some things that might happen. They threw stuff at her.”

The path was laid for Bozeman and other Black people. Just a few years later as Bozeman walked the halls of Wetumpka, she was inducted into the National Honor Society and was a “Beauty” in the yearbook.

“I looked up to her,” Bozeman said. “It was encouraging to know I could do this because she did it. We were blessed to have her as a trailblazer.”

Brooks left Wetump -

ka not long after graduation. She went to Clevand, Ohio. She then went to Brooklyn and started a family.

Bozeman kept up with her cousin. She traveled to Brooklyn to visit Brooks and she shared her life with her adopted younger sister.

“It was the first time I went to a beauty salon,” Bozeman said. “It was the first time I went to a

movie theater.” Brooks proved to be a hard worker. Her children, John Charles Duncan II and Renita Lylene Brooks, were always what motivated her.

She never forgot her education. In 1979, Brooks graduated magna cum laude, with a bachelor’s degree from Dyke College. She went into defense finance and accounting

services and retired 25 years later as a chief finance officer.

Retirement saw her move south to Augusta, Georgia, to live with Duncan, his wife and Brooks’ grandchildren. Five years ago she returned to Ohio and lived with a niece and nephew.

“What a time we had,” Lakesha Faye Robinson said in

Brooks’ obituary.

“Family moments were truly cherished and unforgettable memories were made. Janice, known to most as ‘Tee Janice,’ was always the light in the dark. If you were looking for a laugh, a pick me up, or some type of comment or cliché she was the key. She was the true example of ‘To Know Her, Is to Love Her.’”

Bozeman remembers many phone calls with Brooks. They always talk about family.

Even after Brooks’ death, Bozeman said her influence will always be felt.

“She will be missed,” Bozeman said. “Her life, leadership and love have been and will always be an inspiration for family, friends and everyone else.”

is not getting enough people to sign up.

“We’ve totally changed our marketing on how we’re trying to recruit people, but we still are barely able to just move the needle in a positive direction,” State Sen. Clyde Chambliss said.

There are public image issues where some ADOC staff have been accused of smuggling contraband into the prisons. Attempts to use drones and other means to deliver narcotics, weapons and phones behind the fences of prisons have been documented.

Several new prisons were proposed under a plan four years ago with one just across the road

from Staton Correctional Facility and Elmore Correctional Facility.

The new prison to be named after Gov. Kay Ivey will be completed in 2026 in Elmore County. It will house 4,000 inmates and ultimately close Elmore and Staton. Its design will solve some of the problems of staffing, smuggling of contraband and other issues noted in a possible federal takeover of Ala-

bama’s prison system.

One of the current issues is in many of Alabama’s prisons, 300 or more inmates are housed in an open dormitory. Chambliss said it creates safety issues for staff and inmates alike.

“It’s a recipe for disaster,” Chambliss said.

He said the new prison is different as it will contain 54 buildings.

“We’re building a prison,” Chambliss said. “We’re also building a mental health facility. We’re also building a hospital and a community college.”

viding more space to treat those with mental health issues. Those treatments are difficult in the current prisons.

Given the scope of the project, Chambliss said an entire infrastructure system also had to be constructed.

“It is a small city of its own, but the design of those buildings is going to help us with that staff,” Chambliss said.

smuggling attempts of contraband via drones. Chambliss said jamming technologies and other methods are being investigated to see if they are viable options at stopping the contraband. He said evidence is showing the drone operations are not random.

“It’s a business, a big business,” Chambliss said.

Drones recently recovered showed evidence of being operated in at least six states, according to Chambliss.

About 80% of the inmates in the new prison will be housed in a cell environment. This design doesn’t allow for high numbers of inmates to be together, which solves some of the issues for increased staff.

Ingram State Technical College already operates inside the fence of Alabama prisons including being adjacent to Staton and Elmore and in Tutwiler Prison for Women. Its programs allow inmates to learn skills to become productive members of the workforce when released. Its programs have reduced recidivism rates.

The mental health facility is aimed at pro-

“Prisoners don’t get there for being good Sunday school students,” Chambliss said. “Some have difficulty getting along with others. We have to have places that separate them. Right now we don’t have that.”

The prison’s design also creates larger perimeters to aid in preventing

The security and staffing issues are at almost all of Alabama’s prisons. Costs have caused the legislature to slow funding for future state prisons.The new project in Elmore County is already at $1.2 billion.

That was the entire budget for building four new prisons just a few years ago.

“It’s the largest project by far in the state of Alabama history,” Chambliss said. “It is a huge project.”

ARRESTED

Continued from A1

with the business in December 2024 to purchase the vehicle. Substantial payments had been made and the remaining balance was due at the end of February.

“The alleged offender advised detectives that he went to the business, where he and the owner were renegotiating the remaining payment’s due date,” Johnson said. “The business owner advised that he would need to relinquish possession of the vehicle.”

The alleged offender refused and left the business.

“They allege that Meeks-Carter gave chase as he was leaving the business, intentionally colliding with the vehicle causing damage to the vehicle’s bumper,” Johnson said.

Police arrested Meeks-Carter for reckless endangerment and false reporting to law enforcement authorities.

“Had the complainant advised the reporting officer that there was an existing agreement between the business and the buyer, this would have been documented as a civil matter,” Johnson said. “He would have been advised to seek remedy through civil court proceedings, as no crime appears to have been committed, at least not on the part of the purchaser.”

Grace makes it possible

Rof us have, at one time or another, felt unworthy. It is difficult for us to understand how God is willing to accept us even though we are unworthy, Scripture alludes to the fact that each of us are all unclean in word and deed and our righteousness is like grimy, filthy rags; and all our actions and deeds fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. All of this means that righteous deeds will not count in determining if we are saved or not. Deeds are good but they don’t take away sin. BUT, John 3:16 reminds

us that, “For God so loved the world that He gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” What a promise! Thousands of people were on a busy beach and in the water and all of them were yelling and laughing and enjoying themselves. A man walked up to the lone lifeguard sitting up on his stand and asked, “how can you possibly tell when someone is in need with all the noise going on?” The lifeguard replied, “no matter how great the sounds of confusion may

Church Briefs

be, there has never been a time when I couldn’t distinguish a cry of distress above them all. I always know when there is an emergency.” Jesus hears the voice of His child.

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. (Colossians 3:17). In all the confusion of the world, He knows our deepest needs and hears when we call out for help. But we should be so grateful to God for all He’s doing for us, we

should want everything about us to bring honor to Him. After all, we are the recipients of God’s Amazing Grace. Our goal is to thank God each day for sending Jesus as our Savior. It is with gratefulness that our desire is for each of to be saved and spend eternity with You. Though we are unworthy, Your grace makes it possible for us to be able to call you Father.

Rev. Jonathan Yarboro is the Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Wetumpka

BETHLEHEM EAST

BAPTIST CHURCH

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

CARRVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH

Regular hours of service are Sundays- 9 a.m. Sunday School and 10 a.m. Morning Worship. Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. the church offers Children’s Gospel Project, Youth Bible Study and Adult Prayer Meeting. Regular office hours

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

EAST TALLASSEE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

ETUMC’s Rivers Edge Flea Market is now closed. The church will start a new project called Rivers Edge Food Pantry. ETUMC will provide canned food, water, dry beans and rice, blankets, and jackets. If you want to donate or help with the cause, call Joan Wood at 334-312-4913.

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF THE EPIPHANY

Please join us for Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. when the Rev. Lee Lowery will celebrate the Holy Eucharist. We are asking everyone please to wear

a mask. The service will be live streamed on Facebook https:// www.facebook.com/EpiphanyTallassee/ For more information, visit the church website at http://epiphanytallassee.org/

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

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

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

“We are OPEN and everyone is WELCOME! Come worship with us in person Sunday mornings at 8:50 a.m. (contemporary) or 11 a.m.

(traditional). Sunday School for all ages is offered Sunday mornings at 10 a.m., and a nursery is available for infants.

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

FUMC Tallassee - 1 Jordan Avenue.”

HILLSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH

Invites you to join us each Sunday at 9:45 a.m. for Sunday School, followed immediately by our Worship Service at 11:00 a.m. Bible Study is Wednesday at 6:00

p.m. We also offer a Sunday evening prayer gathering for those wishing to join together in prayer. If you need prayer or know someone who does, you may call 33-567-9695 and leave a voicemail prayer request or drop a prayer request by our prayer box located on our sanctuary porch. We will carry all requests to the Lord in our hour of prayer. Hillside is located at 405 Old Montgomery Highway in Wetumpka. If you have questions, please call us at 334567-9695.

HILLSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH

Angel’s Attic ministry provides clothing for all members of the family. The Attic is located at 210 Old Montgom-

ery Highway and is open each Wednesday afternoon between the hours of 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. If you wish to donate clothing items, please do so during the Wednesday hours of operation. This is a free service to the community. We look forward to seeing you soon!

OUR LIFE’S JOURNEY Airs every Sunday at 8:30 a.m. on 580 WACQ, FM 98.5 & 101.1, on your smart speaker, your TuneIn app, or on our website www.wacqradio.com.

Please share on social media.

This set of programs features Msgr. Charles Troncale, Fr. Mateusz Rudzik, Fr. James Dean, Fr. David Carucci, Fr. Patrick Driscoll, and Deacon Jim Labadie.

Ratliff wins sectional title

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

It took less than three minutes total.

Tyson Ratliff won all three of his Class 5A Super South Sectional matches via pin in under a minute to claim the 285-pound title on Friday afternoon.

“He did really well,” Holtville wrestling coach Connor Blakely said. “He ended up

going 3-0 and I think he wrestled a total of 2.5 minutes the whole tournament. He had a really good performance, and he’s definitely one of our leaders.”

Ratliff’s sectional championship almost didn’t happen at all.

In December, the senior Bulldog suffered a foot injury that kept him sidelined for nearly a month. However, Ratliff put his hard work ethic at the forefront

Indians on the rise

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

All good things must come to an end.

And while the ending wasn’t exactly what the Wetumpka Indians girls basketball team was hoping for, it was still a season to remember.

After winning just five games in 2023-24, the Indians came out with a new swagger and confidence this season. And it resulted in triple the amount of wins.

“We went from winning only five to winning 15, so that’s a huge adjustment,” Wetumpka coach Harriet Winchester said. “I think with our younger players, it was really understanding the system but also the confidence in themselves.

That was the key.”

The Indians graduate only three seniors — Zariah Clark, Jordan Harris and Keeyana Rudolph — and only two starters.

“Before the season started, I pulled them to the side and had a coach’s meeting with them,” Winchester said. “With it being their last year, we really needed them to lay the stepping stones down. They had

a great senior year, and they performed well and really led. The stuff you see during the game is not even half of what they do at practice and at school.”

Wetumpka’s season ultimately ended in the Class 6A sub-regionals in a 53-25 loss to Pike Road. And it was ultimately one bad quarter that really cost the Indians.

After trailing by just five at halftime, the Patriots went on an 8-0 run to start the third quarter and never looked back.

“I say we got flustered,” Winchester said. “I believe the younger players just don’t understand what it really means to go to regionals.

The seniors are playing their hearts out because it’s their last game, but the younger players, they understand the pressure but at the same time, because it’s so much pressure, I feel like it did overwhelm us.”

Wetumpka will return the likes of Logann Banks, Mya Richardson and Aaliyah Humphery as well as several others, and Winchester said she’s already looking forward to the offseason.

Friday night.

BELOW:

and came back with a vengeance.

“He came back in early January, so he had time to get back in shape and everything and make a run,” Blakely said.

“He was definitely upset being a senior and everything, but I really talked to him and helped him work through it. He’s the type of person that’s going to

‘IT

WAS HIS MOMENT’

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

With the game on the line, you want the ball in the hands of your playmaker.

That’s the strategy for any boys basketball team — and it was the same for Wetumpka in the Class 6A subregionals against Russell County on Saturday afternoon.

“We drew it up with just trying to get one of our play-

makers, either Chris (Robinson) or Andrew (Voyles) to get us downhill,” Wetumpka coach Steven Thomas said.

“It just so happened Nolan (Fitch) was in the corner. We got some of the plays that we run right out of the baselines, so just being able to work it and Chris being to get two drawn in then send it off to Nolan in the corner. That’s the best shot we could get right there.”

And the senior answered the call.

With less than five seconds remaining on the clock, Fitch drained a 3-pointer to set the final score at 55-53 in favor of the home team.

“Nolan’s been in the program for four years, and he started playing a lot more toward the end of last season,” Thomas said. “Now with him being starter, he’s taken it to a new level. He’s averaging 15 points (per game), and it was just kind

New faces to fill voids at Wetumpka

By GRIFFIN PRITCHARD For TPI

The same pressure that crushes cars can often create diamonds — and that’s exactly what Coach Daryl Otwell hopes to see his young players develop into as the Wetumpka High Indians gear up for the 2025 season. The Indians, who have relied heavily on the arm and bat of Mya Holt for several seasons, will need new faces to step up and fill the void. It all starts inside the circle. Otwell will turn to a trio of young pitchers: seventh-grader Taylor Carlisle, eighth-grader Sophie Arant and sophomore

Wildcats’ team chemistry and offense could be the key to success

By GRIFFIN PRITCHARD For TPI

The Edgewood Academy Wildcats charge into the 2025 season fueled by the sting of last year’s runner-up finish, where they fell to the Lakeside School in back-to-back games during the Class AA Championships. That tough finale could be the spark that ignites their fire this season.

“This team could be special,” Wildcats baseball coach Justin Jones said. “They’ve come together as a team, and everyone gets along — which is hard to find. We have older, talented guys that also provide leadership and talented young players ready to make an impact.”

Team chemistry is a cornerstone of success, and the Wildcats are no exception. The Wildcats, who will take to the diamond in a few days, played

together on the gridiron in the fall and on the basketball court in the winter, fostering a deep connection. Edgewood (26-14 a year ago) returns a strong core, including

Edgewood Academy’s softball squad looks to stay on top

By GRIFFIN PRITCHARD

For TPI

The Who sang, “Meet the new boss, same as the old boss,” in their 1971 hit “Won’t Get Fooled Again.”

While that track might be lost on today’s generation of Wildcats, the sentiment fits Edgewood Academy’s 2025 softball season like a wellworn glove.

After five seasons as Kim Brown’s trusted assistant, Scott Snow steps into the spotlight as the Wildcats’ new head coach, following Brown’s retirement. Snow inherits a powerhouse squad that wrapped 2024 with a stellar 43-9 record, finishing as the Class AA runner-up in the AISA.

“We have the talent to win big this year; we just need to stay healthy and play with confidence,” Snow said.

Edgewood enters 2025 with championship aspirations, now battling in a region alongside Bessemer and Morgan. Bessemer advanced to the consolation Final Four before losing to eventual Class AAA state champion Macon East.

The Wildcats return a loaded lineup, stacked with heavy hitters ready to make noise at the plate.

Leading the charge is Avery White, who was batting .351 before an April injury cut her junior season short. Now healthy, she’s poised to be a key piece of Edgewood’s offensive engine. Joining her are Lexie Smith (.367 with 34 RBIs and 35 stolen bases), Haylee Coleman (.310 with 22 RBIs), and Avery Rambo (.272, three home runs, and 22 RBIs). Smith and Rambo both earned All-County honors last season, underscoring their impact.

But the true heartbeat of the Wildcats lies within the circle. Senior pitcher Lily Stubbs, Edgewood’s lone AllState selection (first team), returns to anchor the staff after posting an impressive 1.77 ERA in 2024. Her leadership and dominance will be pivotal as the Wildcats aim for another deep postseason run.

“I believe our strengths will be pitching, hitting and base-running. We need to solidify our team defense,” Snow noted.

Enter the youth movement.

For Edgewood to reach its full potential, the Wildcats will lean on contributions from underclassmen like freshmen Channing McCannaly and Skyler Haynes, along with sophomores Addie Stubbs, Savannah Wood and Hayden Hudson. Senior Emmah Clement will also play a vital role, bringing experience and leadership to the roster.

Edgewood’s 2025 schedule is packed with challenges designed to prepare them for postseason success. The Wildcats will host their annual tournament and compete in marquee events at Macon East and Lowndes Academy. Last season, they finished second in their home tournament, claimed the Knights Tournament title, secured the Coaches’ Association Championship Trophy and capped it off by defeating eventual state champion Hooper to win both the area and regional championships. With a blend of veteran leadership, young talent and a familiar face at the helm, the Wildcats are ready to prove that the more things change, the more they stay the same — and that’s a winning formula at Edgewood.

two AISA All-State standouts.

Brock Whitt, a 2024 First-Team All-State infielder, batted .402 with 19 extra-base hits, five home runs, 43 RBIs, and 50 runs scored. Parker Shaw, a Sec-

ond-Team All-State utility player, posted an impressive .430 average with 16 extra-base hits. First-Team All-County selection Ethan Evans also returns, bringing a .407 batting average, two home runs, 12 extra-base hits, 34 RBIs, and 42 runs scored with him. Jackson Hudson, a Second-Team All-County pick, adds more firepower to the lineup with a .408 average, 16 extra-base hits, one home run, 32 RBIs, and 35 runs scored. Whitt and Evans aren’t just threats at the plate — they dominate on the mound as well. Whitt closed out the 2024 season with a stellar 1.09 ERA and 36 strikeouts over 19 innings. Evans, Edgewood’s ace, returns with a 2.05 ERA and 60 strikeouts across 54 innings of work. The Wildcats have bolstered their roster with key offseason additions: Grayson Jones and Logan Aceman from Stanhope

Elmore, and Garrett Myers from Wetumpka.

“Grayson and Garrett are poised for big seasons,” Jones said. “Grayson will be a fixture at the top of the lineup and on the mound, while Garrett will also play a pivotal role as a pitcher. Along with them, I expect Brock and Landon Smith to have standout years.”

Jones believes the Wildcats’ offensive firepower will be their biggest asset.

“Offense will be our strength,” Jones said. “I’m looking forward to seeing our younger guys step up when their number is called. They’re ready to contribute.”

With a balanced mix of experienced leaders, rising stars, and new talent, Edgewood Academy is set to make another strong run in 2025 — this time with its sights firmly set on the championship.

Mustangs ready to rumble in the diamond

By GRIFFIN PRITCHARD For TPI

Expectations were sky-high among the Millbrook faithful when the hometown Mustangs took the field in 2024. After all, Stanhope Elmore had made deep playoff runs in back-toback seasons: the Elite Eight in 2022 and the Final Four in 2023. Coach DK Shuman crafted a grueling schedule designed with one goal in mind — ending the season with a state championship trophy.

But you know what they say about the best-laid plans of mice and men.

The Mustangs graduated 11 seniors in 2023. Then, the injury bug bit hard in 2024. A young squad’s inexperience was laid bare against powerhouses like Bob Jones, Central-Phenix City, Auburn, Chelsea, Vestavia Hills, Saraland and Oak Mountain. The Mustangs took their lumps, losing key players Tyler Woodham, Jackson Stallworth, and Dylan Dent — essentially the lead horses in the stable — early in the season.

“Our record (11-24) does not reflect how good of a team we actually had,” Shuman said.

“We could have played a more balanced schedule and had a good record, but the goal was to teach the team to compete against the best programs in the state to be able to win those deep playoff series. Because the young guys had to be ‘thrown into the fire’ and figure it out last season, our pitching staff this season is drastically improved and experienced.”

As the saying goes, iron sharpens iron.

Stanhope Elmore heads into the 2024 season with the grit and determination of grizzled veterans.

“Our lineup is drastically more experienced against quality arms as we returned nearly every starter from last season,” Shuman said.

The Mustangs are bolstered by the return of Tyler Woodham, now signed with Wallace State-Hanceville, and Jackson Stallworth, who inked with Pensacola State. Stallworth was dominant in limited action last season, posting a 0.87 ERA and shutting out Hueytown in the playoffs.

Key contributors also include Hayden Anderson at shortstop and pitcher; Mack Boswell at catcher; Jordan Jones in the outfield; and Bryson Wright, Romney Harris and Luke Payne to round out the pitching squad.

“Our pitching staff will allow us to compete with nearly any team if we continue to stay healthy,” Shuman said.

New faces set to make an impact include Brayden Smith, Jacob Tharpe, Tristan Wilson, Wil Stephens, and Mason Hearn.

The schedule remains unforgiving.

“I expect us to be vastly improved this season as we are much more experienced and healthier (hopefully we stay that way),” Shuman said. “That said, my belief in playing a tough schedule to better prepare for the playoffs has not changed. We will play as tough of a schedule this year as we did last year. My hope and belief is that we will take the next step from competing with these teams to

finding a way to win those close games.”

The Mustangs will face Tallassee, Prattville, Auburn, Headland, GW Long, Central-Phenix City, Smiths Station, Opelika, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Briarwood Christian and more. Area play will feature fierce battles against rivals Wetumpka and Percy Julian.

“We have a chance this season to make a run if we stay healthy and gain some confidence early,” Shuman said. “I like our matchup in a threegame series with anyone. Tyler Woodham), Jackson Stallworth, Jordan Jones, Luke Payne, and Bryson Wright will make it tough for teams to match up with us in a series. We just have to stay healthy and win some of those tough games early to build confidence coming off a tough season.”

Depth may be a concern with a roster of just 26 Mustangs (grades 9-12).

“We need the younger players to continue to develop, contribute now, and be ready to step in if needed,” Shuman said. “We are relatively seniorheavy this season, and all the seniors have done well leading this offseason and into the preseason. Anderson and Stallworth have been two of the more vocal leaders as the longest-tenured starters (Anderson since 8th grade, Stallworth since 9th). They set the tone in the lineup. Jackson is another anchor, and he’s much bigger and stronger this season. I expect him to continue to improve statistically.”

Saddle up, Class 6A. The Mustangs are ready to run wild.

Elite 8 Bound

By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter

For a young squad like the Edgewood girls basketball it’s going to take near perfection for it to come away with a victory over a team who has bested them three times already.

The Wildcats marched out to a resounding 50-38 win over Monroe Academy in the Sweet 16. Lexie Smith continued her dominant pace, leading the team squad with 22 points on the night while Aubrey Newton chipped in with nine points of her own.

Edgewood had to overcome some touchy officiating which put a few girls in foul trouble, but in the end were able to keep itself from becoming a problem.

“The game was officiated really, really tight, so we were in like crazy foul trouble,” coach Brad Starks said. “But we managed to kind of figure a few things out and be smart for

WETUMPKA

Continued from B1

Abigail Adams. None of them have any varsity experience.

“We have a lot of growing to do in some positions,” Otwell said. “We do not return a pitcher with varsity experience. Depending on their growth and the growth of our team throughout the season, that will dictate our playoff run. Opening weekend in Prattville will be huge for us. We get the opportunity to play some well-coached teams. This will help us determine what we need to improve

RATLIFF

Continued from B1

Edgewood looks to rewrite script vs. Springwood

most of the second half, and so didn’t have anybody foul out. We made shots we needed to make, made little plays, so pretty pleased with them.”

Smith has been a juggernaut for the Wildcats all season long on the offensive side of the ball. As just a sophomore,

she has already crossed the 1,000-point mark earlier in the season with a 39-point outing against Bessemer. Now, she will be leaned on yet again as they head into the Elite 8.

“She kind of runs our offense,” Starks said. “We do a lot of things through her, and

kind of trust her to make the right decision sometimes. A lot of teams that have watched us kind of know that’s coming. So she’s still kind of building her basketball IQ and getting a little bit more comfortable in that role at this point. But she had some big shots and she needed to hit them.”

Her production will be crucial for Edgewood against Springwood, a familiar foe for the Wildcats.. The two squads have met three times already this season with Springwood taking all three games. The familiarity can be beneficial for Edgewood as it knows what to expect and knows it can hang around with Springwood despite the three losses.

4 p.m.

HIGH SCHOOL SOFTBALL 4 Stanhope Elmore at Prattville Christian Academy, 4 p.m.

FRIDAY, FEB. 14

on early.”

Wetumpka has claimed the Prattville High Tournament title in backto-back seasons and wrapped up 2024 with an impressive 48-7 record, though their state tournament run was cut short. Along the way, the Indians notched key victories over Saraland, Helena, Gardendale, Auburn and Spain Park. This season, the Indians will face some familiar foes again, with Saraland and Spain Park both set to compete in the Wetumpka High Tournament later this month.

As the young pitching staff develops, the Indians

work his hardest every single time, so I knew that he’d push himself and put himself in a good spot.”

Ratliff wasn’t the only state qualifier for Holtville either. The Bulldogs will bring a total of seven to the state tournament — totaling the amount they sent the previous four years combined.

FITCH

Continued from B1

of a full circle moment for him. He wasn’t getting a lot of playing time last year, came in this year being a senior, and just him hitting that shot — it was his moment.”

Nothing about Saturday’s sub-regional game was easy as the two playoff squads went toeto-toe. The game was tied twice and had four lead changes in the second half. But it was ultimately the 3-point shot that kept the Indians in the game.

Russell County held a 3-point lead heading into the final frame, but once again, Miller Lombardi hit a pair of back-to-back

The main goal for Edgewood will be to limit their turnovers because Starks knows Springwood will take full advantage of its mistakes. This time, on arguably the biggest stage, Edgewood will focus on the little detail to help prevail.

“It’s the first time we walked into that arena in a few years without having the expectation that we’re going to win the game we’re about to play,” Starks said. “The pressure is not on us. It’s about, can we play our best basketball game on Wednesday? And, I think they’re ready for the challenge. I guess we’ll see on Wednesday how ready we are.”

The girls game tips off at 9 a.m. at the Multiplex, and the boys game will immediately follow.

“Even though we are 0-3 against them, there’s been moments in those games where we’ve played with them or even outplayed them at times,” Starks said. “The problem is they’re just so talented. They have a couple girls that are two of easily the best two players in the state, and they just capitalize on every mistake.”

SCHOOL BASEBALL 4 Tallassee at Elmore County, 6:30 p.m. 4 Chilton

will lean on their defense and offensive firepower to stay competitive.

Leading the charge is Anderson University signee Lily Davenport, a second-team All-County selection, returning with a .400 batting average and 12 doubles. Alyssa Brown, an All-County honorable mention, brings back a solid .375 average with seven doubles. Ava Farmer, who joins Davenport on the Elmore County All-County second team, will be a key contributor from the leadoff spot, having posted a .370 average with eight doubles and 51 runs scored

“It shows a lot of growth from the guys and they really bought in this year,” Blakely said. “It’s my first year as the head coach; I’ve been the assistant the last few years, so it was great to see all these guys come out and be able to perform this year.”

Heading to state for Holtville will be Rocky Rogers (106 pounds), Hudson Mann (113), Dylan Ferris (144), Brock Godwin (156), Teagan Dunnigan (160) and Hunter Chavis (190).

treys to put the Indians back on top. Voyles also scored a longball in the fourth quarter.

But the Warriors made it tough for Wetumpka the entire way. After the first quarter, Russell County employed a serious fullcourt press that had the Indians on their heels. But the fast-paced Wetumpka squad overcame it.

“It helps that we played Percy Julian three times this year and (last) Wednesday,” Thomas said. “Being able to see that kind of speed and athleticism at every position, this had a familiar feel to it. But Russell County, I tip my hat to them. It’s automatic; every time a ball goes in the net, there’s no cele-

bration; they’re already in their press. They gave us some troubles there in the second quarter especially, but we handled it a little bit better in the third and fourth quarter.”

With the victory, Wetumpka advances to the Sweet 16, which will be hosted at 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Garrett Coliseum. The Indians will face McGill-Toolen.

“I don’t know the last time we were in regionals, but it has been a long time,” Thomas said. “But this group of guys, this is just one of the goals we had set. We wanted to win 20 games, win the area then make it to regionals, so we are just laying brick by brick right now.”

last season.

Otwell also plans to rely on upperclassmen like Bailey Carlisle and Chloe Taylor to provide leadership and stability.

“I’m excited about

this year’s team,” Otwell said. “The team chemistry and their work ethic are through the roof. I believe with the right growth and experience throughout

the season, we can get this team ready for a deep playoff run.”

The stage is set. Now it’s time to see if the pressure will produce diamonds.

CALCIUM SCORE CT SCAN

ULTRASOUND

Sectional Champs

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

For the first time in 20 years and only the second time in school history, Elmore County’s wrestling team has won a sectional championship.

The Panthers placed 12 in the top four of the Class 5A Super South Sectional, earning the top prize as a team.

“It’s a really great feeling,” ECHS coach Mason Thornton said. “We set some high goals to get here, and we did feel like we had a team that could accomplish this. To see the guys go out there and perform and get it done was exceptional. I was very proud of them.”

The Panthers were led by Stran Webb and Tyler Payton who both won their individual section tiles at 113 and 157 pounds, respec-

tively.

Payton is a returning state champion from 2024 and had every expectation to grab a title from Super Sectionals.

“Tyler holds himself to a very high standard to do that again,” Thorton said. “It was business as usual for him. He went out there and dominated his three opponents, and we’re hoping to see him do the same at the state tournament this week.”

As for Webb, the win was a bit more unexpected. Webb worked through an injury over the course of the summer. Although he was a state qualifier previously, Webb had never gotten a chance to climb to the top of the podium — until now.

“He worked really, really hard to get to the point where he could be a sectionals champ,” Thornton said. “To see him go out there

Panthers poised to make noise with experienced roster, new coach

By GRIFFIN PRITCHARD For TPI

When Elmore County was looking for a new baseball coach, the Board of Education didn’t have to commission a Lewisand-Clark-style search party. It just looked a few miles down Coosa River Parkway.

Enter Michael Dismukes, the reigning Elmore County Coach of the Year and former coach of the Wetumpka Indians, who’ll lead his Panthers onto a newly turfed diamond and into a new era in 2025 complete with new expectations and a new cache of area foes: Valley and Beauregard.

“We are an experienced group with senior leadership,” Dismukes said. “The schedule will battle test us in the back half of the season. Our pitching has some depth, and we should be able to score some runs with our offensive depth. With an experienced team like this, we should be able to lean on our senior leadership to have a successful season.”

Dismukes knows a thing or two about leadership and success. He guided the 2024 Wetumpka Indians to the third round of the playoffs for the first time

since 1992.

“One thing about Wetumpka is that year in and year out, the players bought in,” Dismukes said. “They came to work and did what we asked them to do. The results speak for themselves.”

But the rearview mirror is smaller than the windshield for a reason. It’s time to look ahead. Dismukes inherits a Panthers program that has averaged 19 wins per season over the past five years (not counting the COVID-shortened 2020 season) and posted an impressive 125-64 record in that time.

Elmore County returns seven starters from the 2024 squad: All-State selections Shea Darnell (Coastal Alabama) and Jaden Eason, along with Hayden Jones, Austin Davis (Gadsden State), Gage Davis, Carson Saucier (Alabama State), and Shelton Darnell. At the plate, these six combined for 176 hits, five home runs, 45 doubles, and over 100 RBIs.

On the mound, Eason posted a 5-1 record, while Jones finished the season at 3-1.

With Dismukes at the helm and an experienced roster, the Panthers are poised to make some noise in 2025.

Elmore County wins wrestling sections

and perform at that high level and really dominate his weight class at sectionals, that was huge.”

Also heading to state for Elmore County are Casey Crumpton (106 pounds), Caleb Bryant (120), Dylan Andres (126), Hudson Fulmer (132), Micah Myers (138), Grayson Meeks (144), Hayden Focthmann (150), Gavin Eason (165), Connor Pike (175) and Luke Reinert (190).

With 12 state qualifiers, Elmore County should have a really good shot at a state title.

“Taking 12 is huge, but the thing is, we really have to go up there and perform and win matches there,” Thornton said.

“If all 12 guys go down and win matches, and if half of our guys place, we have a really good shot at a state title or state runner up. So we’re holding ourselves to that standard.”

BROWN HONORED WITH LIFESAVING AWARD

By MELODY RATHEL Multimedia Reporter

One small action could be the difference between life and death.

For Eclectic Cpl. Antonio Brown, one quick action saved the life of his long time partner and friend Cpl. Tim Thornton.

Brown and Thornton had responded to a call regarding narcotics.

After securing the drugs, Thornton and Brown returned back to the department to test the drugs like they normally do; however, this time was a little bit different.

“We were testing narcotics at the time,” Brown said, “Cpl. Thornton had tested one bag that came back to be fentanyl.”

Brown said there was a yellow pill that matched the drugs in the bag the two had obtained. Brown said he had scraped a little bit off the pill to get some

residue; however, Thornton had come in contact with a higher concentration of the drug.

“My eyes closed once or twice, and I figured I was just tired,” Brown said of his experience testing the pill. “When I looked over at him, he was, kind of, going down in the chair. That’s when he started waving at me and I kind of knew what was going on. That’s when I took action.”

Without skipping a beat, Brown took action. Little did he know, he saved his friend’s life.

Immediately after he put two and two together, Brown administered Narcan, ultimately saving Thornton’s life. To commend him for taking quick action, the Eclectic Police Department honored Brown with the department’s lifesaving award. While all law enforcement are trained to take quick action in situations such as Brown and Thornton’s, Brown felt

SUBMITTED TPI

especially honored to assist one of his best friends.

“It’s part of the job, but for me to save one of my brothers, it feels great,” Brown said. “We’ve been working together for five years. I call him about anything and everything — not work related or work related.”

Eclectic police chief Robert Head said Brown has been with the Eclectic Police Department for about 10 years. Head is thankful Brown’s training helped save the life of another corporal.

“Without Cpl. Brown being there with Thornton at that time, it could have messed him up,” Head said. “His training kicked in like it’s supposed to, and we still have Cpl. Thornton with us. I’m glad he knew what to do because Cpl. Thornton is still with us, that’s the main thing. Cpl. Brown has also been a fixture in the community, and he’s loved by all.”

Cpl. Antonio Brown, center, receives the Eclectic Police Department Lifesaving Award after saving a fellow corporal’s life after being exposed to fentanyl.

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Lake River & Classi eds

undergoing this same hiccup when dealing with others. Relax. Tonight: Enjoy solitude.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Parents or authority gures are hard to predict today. Be smart and show respect. (Never underestimate the power of courtesy.) Meanwhile, your focus is primarily on home, family and perhaps home repairs. Do what you can. Cut yourself some slack. Cut others some slack as well. Tonight: Friendships.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Travel plans might be interrupted today. Likewise, writing a paper, nishing a manuscript or studying schoolwork also might be hard to stick with because things are loosey-goosey and erratic. Pay attention; this is a mildly accident-prone day. Tonight: You’re noticed.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Double-check nancial matters, especially related to banks, insurance issues or anything to do with shared property. Some errors might pop up today. Make no assumptions. Protect your assets and what you own against loss, theft or damage. Tonight: Explore!

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Be patient with partners, spouses and close friends today, because a lot of crazy static is in the air. Most of this day is a Moon Alert, which means people feel indecisive and at loose ends. (However, our creative ideas are stronger during any Moon Alert.) Tonight: Check your nances.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) Pet owners should keep their eyes open because this is a mildly accident-prone day for their pets. For that matter, it could be a mildly accident-prone day for you as well, so be mindful. This is the kind of day to be low-key. Tonight: Cooperate.

Job Opportunities

The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for 2nd, 3rd and Weekend shifts for Direct Care Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Angela Waites (334)252-0025 Ext. 101 Email: angela.waites@ learning-tree.org\ DIGITAL AD SPECIALS!! CALL NOW! 256-414-4250

SJA, INC. NOW HIRING MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR & TEAM LEADER POSITION Mail Resume to 274 Thweatt Industrial Blvd, Dadeville, AL 36853 or email sjahr@sejinamerica.com SJA, INC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Opportunities

Project Management Specialist Manage new projects from start to finish, including overseeing installation of advanced manufacturing equipment including drop lifters (2 types), decks, beans, pit covers, pipes, and conveyor systems (2 types); serve as a point of contact for clients; assist

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Page B6 • Wednesday, FeBruary 12, 2025

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Public Notices

Public

Notices

OF FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Aaron Stewart, an unmarried man, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Wintrust Mortgage, A Division of Barrington Bank and Trust Co., N.A., its successors and assigns, on September 22, 2022, said mortgage recordProbate of Elmore County, Alabama, at RLPY Book 2022, Page 57552; the undersigned Wintrust Mortgage, a division of Barrington Bank & Trust Company, N.A., as Mortgagee/ Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidfront of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Elmore County, Alabama, on March 4, 2025, during the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: LOT 15 JORDAN TRACE PLAT 1 AS THE SAME IS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA, IN PLAT BOOK 16, AT PAGE 65 AND 66 Property street address for informational purposes: 271 Curlee Way Wetumpka, AL 36092 THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE ANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must made payable to Aldridge Pite, LLP at the time and place of the sale. If sale is voided, Mortgagee/Transferee shall return the bid amount to the successful purchaser. The Mortgagee/ Transferee and Aldridge Pite, LLP shall not be liable to the purchaser for any damages. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the purchaser at the sale shall be only entitled to a return of the bid amount. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real

Public Notices

y estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. Wintrust Mortgage, a division of Barrington Bank & Trust Company, N.A., Mortgagee/Transferee ALDRIDGE PITE, LLP Six Piedmont Center 3525 Piedmont Road, N.E., Suite 700 Atlanta, GA 30305. Attorney for Mortgagee/Transferee. THIS OFFICE IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR AND IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 5, 12 and 19, 2025 245959

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER FORECLOSURE NOTICE WHEREAS, default has occurred in the performance of the covenants, terms and conditions of a mortgage from LLOYD RAY CUTHRELL JR. UNMARRIED to DITECH FINANCIAL LLC, on the 15th day of March, 2019, said mortgage recorded in the May 10, 2019, in Deed/Mort-cords, said Mortgage having not in its individual capacity,ment recorded in the aforesaid given that the undersigned Citi-

as Mortgagee/Transferee, unof sale contained in said mortthe main entrance to the Elmore county courthouse located at 100 E Commerce Street, We-March 11, 2025, during the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the situated in Elmore County, AlaFROM THE NW CORNER

UTES E 210.00 FEET THENCEUTES EAST FOR 45 FEET TO THENCE CONTINUE SOUTH

THE WEST RIGHT OF WAY OF DEGREES EAST ALONG THE -

BEGINNING, CONTAINING 1 ACRE AND LYING IN THE NW 1/4 OF SECTION 1, TOWN-MORE COUNTY, ALABAMA.

23397 US HWY 231, EQUALITY, AL 36026 -

property the right to redeem the property under certain circumexist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process.ed to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process.

-

ject to any easements, enthose contained in the records

tion of all parties entitled thereto ad valorem taxes (including taxsale is made for the purposeas the expenses of foreclosure. The Mortgagee/Transferee repurchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the inpostponement or cancellation.

Mortgagee/Transferee THE BELOW LAW FIRM MAY BE HELD TO BE ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR, UNDER FEDERAL LAW. IF SO, ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT

Mortgagee/Transferee

2 246771

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE

NOTICE is hereby given that a bill substantially as follows will be introduced in the 2025 Regular Session of the Legislature of Alabama and application for its passage and enactment will be made: A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT

Relating to Elmore County; to levy a court cost in all cases in the circuit court; to levy a booking fee for defendants booked in the county jail; and to provide for collection and allocation of the proceeds from these fees.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEG-

ISLATURE OF ALABAMA:

Section 1. This act shall only apply in Elmore County.

Section 2. (a)(1) A court cost of one hundred dollars ($100) shall be assessed and collected in all cases in the circuit court of the county.

(2) This fee shall increase by each year.

(b)(1) This court cost shall be in addition to any other court costs and fees.

(2) The court cost shall not be waived by any court unless all other fees, assessments, costs, with the case are waived.

(c)(1) The clerk of the court shall collect this court cost as other costs of the court are assessed and collected.

(2) The clerk of the court shall certify the annual increase provided in subdivision (a)(2) and shall publish notice of the fee amount and adjustment.

(d)(1) All proceeds from the collection of the court cost shall be deposited into the Enhance Elmore Fund.

(2)a. The county commission shall appropriate the proceeds from the additional court cost for debt service of the expansion and renovation the judicial complex properties.

b. Upon satisfaction of the debt service, the county commission shall appropriate the proceeds from the additional court cost for the maintenance, operations, and upgrade of the facilities located on the judicial complex parcel.

Section 3. (a)(1) A booking fee of one hundred dollars ($100) shall be assessed by the clerk of the court against each defendant incarcerated in or booked provided the defendant is convicted or pleads guilty in cases prosecuted in the circuit or district court of the county.

(2) This fee shall increase by each year.

(b)(1) This fee shall be in adcosts, or charges.

(2) The fee shall not be waived by any court unless all other and charges associated with the case are waived.

(c)(1) The clerk of the court shall collect this fee as other costs of the court are assessed and collected.

(2) The clerk of the court shall certify the annual increase provided in subdivision (a)(2) and shall publish notice of the fee amount and adjustment.

(d)(1) All proceeds from the collection of the court cost shall be deposited into the Enhance Elmore Fund.

(2)a. The county commission shall appropriate the proceeds from the additional court cost for debt service of the expansion and renovation the judicial complex properties.

b. Upon satisfaction of the debt service, the county commission shall appropriate the proceeds from the additional court cost for the maintenance, operations, and upgrade of the facilities located on the judicial complex parcel. Section 4. This act shall become

Wetumpka Herald: BILL/COUNTY FEES

PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE

ASPHALT CONTRACTORS, INC. HEREBY GIVES NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF CONTRACT WITH ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR ELMORE COUNTY PROJECT STPMN-2624(250). ALL CLAIMS SHOULD BE FILED AT P.O. BOX 241447, MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36124 DURING THIS PERIOD.

ASPHALT CONTRACTORS, INC.

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2025 COMPLETION 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 February 25th and February 28th 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: Feb. 12, 2025 STORAGE AUCTION

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE

NOTICE is hereby given that a bill substantially as follows will be introduced in the 2025 Regular Session of the Legislature of Alabama and application for its passage and enactment will be made: A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT

Relating to Elmore County; to levy a county rental tax and provide for the calculation of the rate; and to provide for the distribution of the proceeds collected from the tax. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA:

Section 1. This act shall only apply to Elmore County.

Section 2. (a) In addition to all other taxes, beginning September 1, 2025, there is levied a privilege tax, to be called a rental tax, on each person leasing or renting tangible personal property as provided by this section. (b) The Revenue Commissioner of Elmore County shall calculate the rates for the tax levied by this section using the formulas as provided in subsection (c) rounded to the nearest one tenth of a percent and shall publish notice of the rates by August 1, 2025. (c)(1) a. The rate for each incorporated area of the county, including any police jurisdictions, shall be equal to the difference of the following: 1. Nine and one-half percent;

LESS 2. The lesser of the following: (i) The general state rental tax rate levied pursuant to Section 40-12-222(a)(1), Code of Alabama 1975; or (ii) Four percent; LESS 3. The applicable general rental or lease tax rate levied on the rental of tangible personal property by a municipality in the incorporated area or police jurisdiction.

b. If the calculation from paragraph a. results in a negative number, no county rental tax shall be levied by this section.

(2) The rate for unincorporated areas of the county, not to include any police jurisdictions, shall be an amount equal to the greater of: a. Five and one-half percent; or b. The difference of the following: 1. Nine and one-half percent; LESS 2. The lesser of the following:

(i) The general state rental tax rate levied pursuant to Section 40-12-222(a)(1), Code of Alabama 1975; or (ii) Four percent. (d) Upon any change in the rates referenced in subsection (c) that are used to calculate the county rental tax rate, the revenue commissioner shall recalculate the county rental tax rates in subsection (c) and publish notice of the new rate adjustment.

(e) The county commission shall certify by resolution the county rental tax rates levied by this section, including any recalculations provided by subsection (d). (f) The tax levied by this section shall parallel the tax imposed by Article 4 of Chapter 12 of Title 40, Code of Alabama 1975. This tax shall apply to the same persons and transactions to which that tax applies.

(g) The county commission shall provide for the collection and administration of this tax by resolution. (h)(1) The proceeds of this tax shall be deposited into the Enhance Elmore Fund. (2) The county commission shall appropriate the proceeds of this tax as follows: a. Ninety percent for infrastructure. b. Ten percent for economic development. Section 3. This act shall become effective on June 1, 2025. Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2025 BILL/RENTAL TAX

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE CASE NO: 2025-019 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM WADSWORTH BALTZELL, DECEASED

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of WILLIAM WADSWORTH BALTZELL, deceased, having been granted to RUSSELL W. BALTZELL on the 5th day of February, 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.

RUSSELL W. BALTZELL PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM WADSWORTH BALTZELL, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for such Personal Representative: GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. LAW OFFICE OF GA DANIEL, JR. LLC PO BOX 638 MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-9444

Jerry@GADanielLaw.com

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 12, 19 and 26, 2025 EST/BALTZELL W.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having being made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage dated June 24, 2015 executed by Mary Humphreys Lapoint, a married woman, and joined by her spouse Thomas E. Lapoint, in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. solely as nominee for LoanDepot.com, said Mortgage being recorded August 27, 2015, in RLPY Book 2015, the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama; having later been assigned to NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing by instrument recorded Probate of Elmore County, Alabama. Said default continues and notice is hereby given that the undersigned, NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash at the main entrance to the County Courthouse, Elmore County, Alabama on 02/27/2025, during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: The Following Described Real Estate, Situated in The County of Elmore, And The State Of Alabama, To-Wit: Begin At A Concrete Monument At The Center Of Section 19, Township 20 North, Range 20 East, Elmore County, Alabama; Thence South 89 Deg. 40 Min. 10 Sec, East, Along Half Section Line, 1315.24 Feet To A Concrete Monument; Thence North 01 Deg. 07 Min, 52 Sec, East, Along Quarter Section Line, 119.08 Feet To An Iron Pin; Thence South 89 Deg. 38 Min. 35 Sec. East, 1250.57 Feet To An Iron Pin On The West Right Of Way Of Alabama Highway No. 9, Central Plank Road, 100 Feet R.O.W.; Thence Southeasterly, Along Said Right Of Way And Curve To The Right, Having A Radius Of 3961.69 Feet, 162.62 Feet, Chord Being South 31 Deg. 15 Min. 54 Sec. East, 162.60 Feet, To A Point On The East Line Of Section 19; Thence Leaving Said

41 Sec. West, 345. 16 Feet To An Iron Pin; Thence North 88 Deg. 57 Min. 10 Sec. West, 669.05 Feet To An Iron Pin; Thence South 01 Deg. 20 Min. 20 Sec. West, 313.70 Feet To An Iron Pin; Thence North 89 Deg. 06 Min. 47 Sec. West, 1979.50 Feet To An Iron Pin On The West Line Of The Northeast Quarter Of Section 19; Thence North 03 Deg. 10 Min 49 Sec, East, Along Half Section Line, 673.54 Feet To The Point Of Beginning. The Above Described Property Lies In The Southeast Quarter Of The Northeast Quarter And The North Half Of The Southeast Quarter Of Section 19, Township 20 North, Range 20 East, Elmore County, Alabama, And Contains 40.24 Acres, More Or Less. Less And Except Begin At A Concrete Monument At The Northwest Corner Of The Southeast Quarter Of Section 19, Township 20 North, Range 20 East, Elmore County, Alabama; Thence South 89 Deg. 39 Min, 19 Sec. East, Along Half Section Line, 735.24 Feet To An Iron Pin; Thence South 52 Deg. 31 Min, 04 Sec. West, 198.84 Feet To An Iron Pin: Thence South 52 Deg. 35 Min, 46 Sec. West, 768.34 Feet To An Iron Pin On The West Line Of The Southeast Quarter Of Section 19; Thence North 03 Deg. 10 Min, 49 Sec. East, Along Half Section Line, 593.04 Feet To The Point Of Beginning. The Above-Described Property Lies in The Northwest Quarter of The Southeast Quarter of Section 19, Township 20 North, Range 20 East, Elmore County, Alabama, And Contains 5.00 Acres, More Or Less. Less And Except Commence At A Concrete Monument At The Center Of Section 19, Township 20 North, Range 20 East, Elmore County, Alabama; Thence South 89 Deg. 40 Min. 10 Sec. East, Along Half Section Line, 735.48 Feet To An Iron Pin, Said Point Being The Point Of Beginning; Thence Continue South 89 Deg. 40 Min. 10 Sec. East, Along Half Section Line, 579.76 Feet To A Concrete Monument; Thence North 01 Deg. 07 Min. 52 Sec. East, Along Quarter Section Line, 119.08 Feet To An Iron Pin; Thence South 89 Deg. 38 Min. 35 Sec. East, 1250.57 Feet To An Iron Pin On The West Right Of Way Of Alabama Highway No. 9, Central Plank Road, 100 Feet R.O.W.: Thence Southeasterly, Along Said Right Of Way And Curve To The Right, Having A Radius Of 3961.69 Feet, 47.40 Feet, Chord Being South 32 Deg. 05 Min. 53 Sec. East, 47.40 Feet To An Iron Pin; Thence Leaving Said Right Of Way, North 89 Deg. 38 Min. 35 Sec. West, 798.99 Feet To An Iron Pin; Thence South 01 Deg. 20 Min. 25 Sec. West, 769.29 Feet To An Iron Pin; Thence North 89 Deg.

Public Notices

The Southeast Quarter Of The Northeast Quarter Of Section 19, Township 20 North, Range 20 East, Elmore County, Alabama, And Contains 25.24 Acres, More Or Less For informational purposes only, the property address is: 13183 Central Plank Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024. Any property address provided is not part of the legal description of the property sold herein and in the event of any discrepancy, the legal description referenced herein shall control. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS-IS, WHEREIS” BASIS, SUBJECT TO ANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by mortgage as well as the expenses of foreclosure, including a reasonable attorney’s fees and other purposes set out in said mortgage. NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint

Birmingham,

(205)

30-FC-24-01543 Wetumpka

Jan. 29, Feb. 5 and 12, 2025 30-FC-24-01543

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE NOTICE is hereby given that a bill substantially as follows will be introduced in the 2025 Regular Session of the Legislature of Alabama and application for its passage and enactment will be made: A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT

Relating to Elmore County; to levy an annual motor vehicle registration fee and watercraft user fee on each motor vehicle and watercraft registered in Elmore County; and to provide for the distribution of the proceeds of the fees. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA: Section 1. This act shall apply only to Elmore County. Section 2. (a) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings: (1) MOTOR VEHICLE. As deCode of Alabama 1975.

abama 1975.tion 33-5-3, Code of Alabama 1975. (b)(1) The Revenue Commissioner of Elmore County shall dollar ($25) fee on each motor vehicle registration, transfer, or renewal.

(2) The fee established by this subsection shall not apply to trailers.

(c) The Revenue Commissioner of Elmore County shall charge ($25) fee on each vessel registration, transfer, or renewal.

(d) The fees provided in subsections (a) and (b) shall be in addition to all other fees, taxes, and other charges provided by law.

(e)(1) On January 1 of each year, the amount of each fee set in subsections (a) and (b) shall increase by one dollar ($1).

(2) The Revenue Commissioner shall certify any adjustment made pursuant to this subsection and shall publish notice of the fee amounts and adjustments.

(f) The Revenue Commissioner shall collect the fees in the same manner and at the same time as other motor vehicle and vessel registration fees.

(g)(1) All proceeds from the collection of the fees shall be deposited into the Enhance Elmore Fund.

(2) The county commission shall appropriate the proceeds of these fees as follows:structure. b. Five percent for economic development. Section 3. This act shall become effective on January 1, 2026. Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2025 BILL/VEHICLE REG. PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF ELMORE NOTICE is hereby given that a bill substantially as follows will be introduced in the 2025 Regular Session of the Legislature of Alabama and application for its passage and enactment will be made: A BILL TO BE ENTITLED AN ACT

Public Notices

Relating to Elmore County; to levy a county sales and use tax and provide for the calculation of the rate; to provide for the distribution of the proceeds collected from the tax; to create the Enhance Elmore Fund; and to provide for the allocation of monies deposited into the fund.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEG-

ISLATURE OF ALABAMA:

Section 1. This act shall only apply to Elmore County.

Section 2. (a) In addition to all other taxes, beginning September 1, 2025, there is levied a county sales and use tax as provided by this section.

(b) The Revenue Commissioner of Elmore County shall calculate the rates for the tax levied by this section using the formulas in subsection (c) rounded to the nearest tenth percent and shall publish notice of the rates by August 1, 2025.

(c)(1) a. The rate for each incorporated area of the county, including any police jurisdictions, shall be equal to the difference of the following:

1. Nine and one-half percent;

LESS

2. The lesser of the following:

(i) The general retail state sales tax rate levied pursuant to Section 40-23-2(1), Code of Alabama 1975; or (ii) Four percent; LESS

3. The lesser of the following:

(i) The general county sales tax rate levied pursuant to Section 40-12-4, Code of Alabama 1975; or (ii) One percent;

LESS 4. The general retail sales tax rate levied by a municipality in the incorporated area or police jurisdiction.

b. If the calculation from paragraph a. results in a negative number, no county sales or use tax shall be levied by this section in that area.

(2) The rate for unincorporated areas of the county, not to include any police jurisdictions, shall be an amount equal to the greater of:

a. Four and one-half percent; or

b. The difference of the following:

1. Nine and one-half percent;

LESS 2. The lesser of the following:

(i) The general retail state sales tax rate levied pursuant to Section 40-23-2(1), Code of Alabama 1975; or (ii) Four percent;

LESS 3. The lesser of the following:

(i) The general county sales tax rate levied pursuant to Section 40-12-4, Code of Alabama 1975; or (ii) One percent.

(d) Upon any change in rates referenced in subsection (c) that are used to calculate the county sales and use tax rate, the revenue commissioner shall recalculate the county sales and use tax rates in subsection (c) and publish notice of the new rate adjustment.

(e) The county commission shall certify by resolution the county sales and use tax rates levied by this section, including any recalculations provided by subsection (d).

(f) As used in this bill, “sales and use tax” means the same type of tax imposed by Section 4023-2(1), Code of Alabama 1975. This tax shall apply to the same persons and sales to which that subdivision applies.

(g) Machinery and equipment subject to the sales tax levied by Section 40-23-37, Code of Alabama 1975, shall be exempt from the tax levied by this section.

(h)(1) The proceeds of this tax shall be deposited into the Enhance Elmore Fund.

(2) The county commission shall appropriate the proceeds of this tax as follows: a. Ninety percent for infrastructure. b. Ten percent for economic development. Section 3. (a) There is created the Enhance Elmore Fund in the county treasury. The proceeds deposited into this fund shall be appropriated as provided by law.

(b) The commission shall produce an annual report that includes a detailed listing of all monies deposited into the fund and all expenditures from the year. This report shall be published by January 31 of each year on the commission’s website.

(c)(1) By January 15 each year, Association shall provide a report to the commission on any expenditures from the fund toments. The commission shall adopt the reporting requirements by resolution.

(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the commission may withhold the allocation department for failure to report as provided in subdivision (1). The commission shall reallocate any funds withheld for use for public safety purposes.

Section 4. This act shall become effective on June 1, 2025. Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2025

BILL/SALES TAX PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA LARRY LEE MCENDARFER, JR. PLAINTIFF, V. BRYCE PETERS FINANCIAL, LLC, FICTITIOUS PARTIES

“A”, “B”, “C”, BEING ANY AND/OR ALL PERSONS, OR ENTITIES, WHICH MAY HOLD OR CLAIM ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE HEREIN DESCRIBED REAL ESTATE LOCATED IN ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA; AND BEGIN AT A CONCRETE MONUMENT AT THE SW

Public Notices

CORNER OF THE SE1/4 OF THE SW1/4 OF SECTION 10, T18N, R19E, ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA; THENCE N 12° 52’ 00” LINE, 659.50 FEET TO AN IRON; THENCE N 82° 12’ 42” EAST, 292.54 FEET TO AN IRON PIN; THENCE S 10° 41’ 51” WEST, 693.89 FEET TO AN IRON PIN ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SECTION 10; THENCE S 86° 57’ 33” WEST, ALONG SECTION LINE, 14.20 FEET TO THE POB, ALL LYING IN THE SE1/4 OF THE SW1/4 OF SAID SECTION 10, AND CONTAINS 2.32 ACRES, MORE OR LESS. ALONG WITH THAT CERTAIN EASEMENT DESCRIBED ON DEED RECORDED ON RLPY 2022, PAGE 10087. DEFENDANTS. CASE NO. CV-2025-900022 NOTICE OF FILING OF COMPLAINT AND ORDER DIRECTING FILING OF APPEARANCE AND ANSWER OF DEFENDANTS TO: Bryce Peters Financial, LLC, and if dissolved, its successors and assigns, and anyone claiming an ownership interest in, is attempting to purchase, claims to hold a lien on, or anyone who claims to lease the subject property of this Action, YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that on the 29 day of January, 2025, a Complaint to Quiet Title Elmore County, Alabama under Civil Action No. CV- 2025900022. All persons having an interest in the above-described property, or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to appear, answer, demur or otherwise respond to the allegations contained in the Plaintiffs’ Complaint within thirtycation; to wit: By the 4th day of April, 2025; or, in the event said Defendants fail to so appear and answer, a Default Judgment may be entered against them. Said lands which are more particular described in the ComWITNESS my hand and seal, this 3 day of February, 2025.

/s/Clerk of the Circuit Court of Elmore County, Alabama

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 12, 19, 26 and Mar. 5, 2025 CV-2025-900022

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GORDON D. BENNETT, DECEASED CASE NO: 2025-028 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Es-

tate of GORDON D. BENNETT, deceased, having been granted to SUNDAE S. RAGLAND on February 4, 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.

SUNDAE S. RAGLAND PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF GORDON D. BENNETT, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: JOHN B. BRADLEY OF COUNSEL: VOGEL LAW FIRM, LLC 41 CAMBRIDGE COURT WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36093 334-409-0088

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 12, 19 and 26, 2025 EST/BENNETT, G. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN W. BOYD, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-325 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JOHN W. BOYD, deceased, having been granted to JUSTIN BARRETT on January 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.

JUSTIN BARRETT PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN W. BOYD, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: ROBERT B. RENEAU LAW FIRM OF EDWARDS & EDWARDS, P.C. 109 EAST BRIDGE STREET WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36092 334-514-1011

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 29, Feb. 5 and 12, 2025

EST/BOYD J. PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WALTER MERRITT BULLOCK, JR., DECEASED CASE NO: 2025-014 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Public Notices

Letters of Administration over the Estate of WALTER MERRITT BULLOCK, JR., deceased, having been granted to NADA HEAD BULLOCK on January 27, 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.

NADA HEAD BULLOCK ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF WALTER MERRITT BULLOCK, JR., DECEASED

Name and Address of Attorney for Administrator: JIM T. NORMAN, III LAW OFFICES OF JIM T. NORMAN, III, LLC PO BOX 680670 PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36068 334-365-9955

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 5, 12 and 19, 2025 EST/BULLOCK, W. JR. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RONALD CLIFFORD GUTHRIE, DECEASED CASE NO: 2025-011 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of RONALD CLIFFORD GUTHRIE, deceased, having been granted to EUGENE BASS GUTHRIE ARTHUR, who is also known as EUGENA BASS GUTHRIE ARTHUR, on January 31, 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.

EUGENE BASS GUTHRIE ARTHUR, who is also known as EUGENA BASS GUTHRIE ARTHUR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF RONALD CLIFFORD GUTHRIE, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: MATTHEW T. ELLIS CRUM, ELLIS & ASSOCIATES, PC PO BOX 1186 MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36101-1186 641 SOUTH LAWRENCE STREET MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36104

334-581-6600 334-603-8524 mellis@crumellis.com

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 12, 19 and 26, 2025 EST/GUTHRIE, R.

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ARTHUR P. HOLLADAY, JR., DECEASED CASE NO: 2025-015 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of ARTHUR P. HOLLADAY, JR., deceased, having been granted to MARIE HOLLADAY on January 27, 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.

MARIE HOLLADAY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF ARTHUR P. HOLLADAY, JR., DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: JIM T. NORMAN, III LAW OFFICES OF JIM T. NORMAN, III, LLC PO BOX 680670 PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36068 334-365-9955

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 5, 12 and 19, 2025

EST/HOLLADAY, A. JR.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BETTY H. SAMMONS, DECEASED CASE NO: 2025-003 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Es-

tate of BETTY H. SAMMONS, deceased, having been granted to LISA S. LOVVORN on February 5, 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.

LISA S. LOVVORN

PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF BET-

TY H. SAMMONS, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: JOHN B. BRADLEY

VOGEL LAW FIRM, LLC 41 CAMBRIDGE COURT WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36093 334-409-0088

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 12, 19 and 26, 2025

EST/SAMMONS B.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES JACKSON, DECEASED CASE NO: 2024-186 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of JAMES JACKSON, deceased, having been granted to ERNEST JACKSON on February 4th 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.

ERNEST JACKSON PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES JACKSON, DECEASED Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: GERALD A. DANIEL, JR. LAW OFFICE OF G A DANIEL, JR. LLC PO BOX 638 MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-9444

Jerry@GADanielLaw.com

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 12, 19 and 26, 2025 EST/JACKSON, J.

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MELVIN EDWARD JONES, DECEASED CASE NO. 2025-016 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to BRIAN K. JONES as Personal Representative on the 3rd day of February 2025, by the Honorable D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of said County in said State, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are required to present same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

BRIAN K. JONES PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MELVIN EDWARD JONES, DECEASED.

Name and Address of Attorney: Regina B. Edwards, Esq. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, P.C. 109 E. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 12, 19 and 26, 2025 EST/JONES, M.

PUBLIC NOTICE

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PHILLIP WAYNE MAYHAN, DECEASED CASE NO: 2025-012 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of PHILLIP WAYNE MAYHAN, deceased, having been granted to JASON WAYNE MAYHAN on January 27, 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.

JASON WAYNE MAYHAN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF PHILLIP WAYNE MAYHAN, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: GEORGE S. HABUREY, IV THE CLEVELAND FIRM, LLC 707 MCQUEEN SMITH ROAD SOUTH. PRATTVILLE, ALABAMA 36066 334-365-6266 george@clevelandgroup.legal

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 5, 12 and 19, 2025 EST/MAYHAN, P. PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE PROBATE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIE JAMES ZEIGLER, DECEASED CASE NO. 2025-030 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to BRENDA GILES as Executrix on the 4th day of February 2025, by the Honorable D. JASON BRITT, Judge of Probate of said County in said State, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are required to present same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

BRENDA GILES

EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIE JAMES ZEIGLER, DECEASED.

Name and Address of Attorney: Regina B. Edwards, Esq. The Law Firm of Edwards & Edwards, P.C. 109 E. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 12, 19 and 26, 2025

EST/ZEIGLER W.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

FORECLOSURE NOTICE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness described in and secured by that certain mortgage executed by JAN W. BROWNING, an unmarried woman, as Mortgagor(s) to Regions Bank d/b/a Regions Mortgage, as Mortgagee, dated the 6th day of June, 2016, and recorded in RLPY Book 2016, Page 26257, et seq. of the records in the Court of Elmore County, Alabama; said default continuing, notice is hereby given that the undersigned will, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage sell at public outcry for cash to the highest bidder during legal hours of sale, on the 27th day of February, 2025, in the city of Wetumpka, at the front door of the Court House of Elmore County, Alabama, the following described real property situated in the County of Elmore, State of Alabama, to-wit: Lot 22, Hidden Forest Subdivision Plat No. the Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 8 at Page 7. This property will be sold on an “as is, where is” basis, subject to any easements, encumbrances, reservations and exceptions or those contained in the reof Probate of the county where the above-described property is situated. This property will be sold without warranty or recourse, expressed or implied as to title, use and/or enjoyment and will be sold subject to the right of redemption of all parties entitled thereto. 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. Said sale will be made for the purpose of paying said indebtedness and the expenses incident to this sale, including a reasonable attorney’s fee, and the other purposes set out in said mortgage. The sale will betion that the sale is not prohibited under the U.S. Bankruptcytion and audit of the status of the loan with the Mortgagee. REGIONS BANK d/b/a REGIONS MORTGAGE Holder of said Mortgage Goodman G. Ledyard PIERCE LEDYARD JOHNSTON, P.C. Attorneys for Mortgagee

Wetumpka Herald: FC/BROWNING

PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF: MICHAEL EDWARD HILL, JR. CASE NO. JU-2015-229.04 NOTICE OF PETITION FOR TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

TO: STEPHANIE ALLEN (Mother) You are hereby given notice that -

You are hereby given noticetitioner’s attorney, Synetria J. -

March 12, 2025, at 9:15 A.M. at the Elmore County Judicial Complex in Wetumpka, Alabama.

JU-2015-229.04

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell for cash, at an ONLINE public auction on Thursday, February 20th, 2025, at 11:00am AT STORAGETREASURES.COM. Please note: THIS AUCTION IS NOT IN PERSON. PLEASE DO NOT SHOW UP TO OUR PHYSICAL LOCATION. ALL AUCTION PARTICIPANTS MUST SIGN UP AND BID ONLINE.

Flex Storage 749 US-231 Wetumpka, AL 36093

208: Barbara Rigsby. 661 Stone Gate Trail, Wetumpka, AL 36093 Contents: tv stand, boxes, bed frame

73: John Moore.1013 Jackson Trace Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Contents: Fencing, concrete, generator, fans, poles Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 12 and 19, 2025 STORAGE AUCTION

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT P O Box 301463 (Zip 36130-1463) 1400 Coliseum Boulevard (Zip 36110-2059) Montgomery, Alabama 36130-1463 (334) 271-7700

PROPOSED ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER Account No. 330

Elmore County Pursuant to the provisions of the Alabama Environmental Management Act, Ala. Code §§2222A-1 to 22-22A-16 (2006 Rplc. Vol.), the Alabama Department of Environmental Management is proposing to issue a Administrative Order to owner of property located in Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama. The violations listed in the Orderated in a manner that violated the state regulations in relation to open burning. The Department is proposing a civil penalty in the amount of $5,000.00. The order, if issued, would require to comply with all applicable requirements of ADEM Administrative Code div. 335-3 immediately upon the effective date of this Order and continuing each and every day thereafter. Interested persons may submit written comments, including request for a hearing, within 30 days of the publication date of this notice, to: Alabama Department of Environmental Management Attention: Aubrey H. White III, Chief of the Air Division P.O. Box 301463 Montgomery, Alabama 36130-1463

The comment period shall end at the close of business 30 days from the publication date of this notice. A copy of the proposed order is available on the ADEM web page at http:// www.alabama.gov/compInfo/ adminOrders.cnt or may be obtained by written request to the above address. A nominal fee for copying may be charged. This notice is hereby given this 12 th day of February, 2025, by authorization of the Alabama Department of Environmental Management.

LANCE R. LeFLEUR DIRECTOR

Nondiscrimination Statement: The Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability in the administration of its programs. Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 12, 2025 HATFIELD

PUBLIC NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE OF PROPOSED VACATION OF A PORTION OF MAVERICK CIRCLE IN ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA

Pursuant to the proposal of the Elmore County Commission to vacate a portion of Maverick Circle in Elmore County, Alabama, the Elmore County Commission will consider the said vacation of a portion of Maverick Circle, which is more particularly and accurately described as follows: ALL OF THAT PORTION OF MAVERICK CIRCLE THAT HAS NOT PREVIOUSLY BEEN VACATED BY THE ELMORE COUNTY COMMISSION, COMMENCING AT THE BEGINNING OF THE NORTHERN MOST POINT OF MAVERICK CIRCLE THAT IS DIRECTLY ACROSS FROM THE NORTHERN MOST POINT OF PARCEL NUMBER 24 01 02 0 000 006.002 (120 MAVERICK CIRCLE, WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36093) THEN CONTINUES AND CONCLUDES AT THE SOUTHERN MOST POINT OF MAVERICK CIRCLE THAT ABUTS DOZIER ROAD AND IS DIRECTLY ACROSS FROM PARCEL NUMBER 24 01 02 0 000 007.000 (2119 MAVERICK CIRCLE; WETUMPKA, ALABAMA 36093). said petition, the Elmore County Commission will conduct a public hearing on the proposed vacation. This public hearing shall be held at the regularly scheduled meeting of the Elmore County Commission set for 5:00 p.m. on the 10th day of March, 2025, at the Elmore County Courthouse, 100 E. Commerce Street, in Wetumpka, Alabama. Any citizen alleging to be affected by the proposed vacation may submit a written objection to the Elmore County Commission or may request an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. Jeffrey J. Courtney Attorney for the Elmore County Commission Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2025 MAVERICK CIRCLE