Wetumpka Herald Feb. 5 2025

By Cliff Williams Staff Writer

It was reported to school officials by a letter from the Alabama Department of Public Health while school was out during the winter storm.

County schools keeping tabs on absenteeism

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

said

Florida murder suspect arrested in Wetumpka

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

tim’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 can’t disclose now but I don’t think it’s beneficial to Mr. Wilson.” Wilson was released on a $6,000 bond 90 minutes after turning himself in according to the Elmore County Jail website.

lips was possibly in the area.

“They pinged her phone,” Wetumpka police chief Ed Reeves said. “We went to the Motel 231 and found her there.”

Chamber holds luncheon welcoming members

students with five or more unexcused absences so far this school year,” Jackson said.

The Wetumpka Police Department helped a Florida law enforcement agency take a murder suspect into custody. WPD’s involvement started Saturday, Jan. 25 morning with a phone call from the Santa Rosa County (Florida) Sheriff’s Office that murder suspect Tequila Phil-

Officers booked Phillips, 48, of Milton, Florida, into the Elmore County Jail. Santa Rosa County deputy sheriffs arrived Wednesday to extradite Phillips back to Florida. The case started Friday, Jan. 24 when Santa Rosa deputies went to the home of Allen Phillips to conduct a welfare check after a family member expressed concern about Allen Phillips’ safety after not hearing from him for several days.

By Cliff Williams Staff Writer

Documentation of student absences in Elmore County Schools is greatly centralized.

Elmore County Schools director of administrative services Shay Jackson is tasked with managing programs surrounding school attendance, which includes better communication with juvenile courts to aid in improving attendance. With 15 campuses and more than 11,000 students, it can be daunting.

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.

“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

“We have about 200

Those students along with parents have been sent letters to report to the Elmore County District Court Judge Ben Baxley. At five unexcused absences, the visit to juvenile court is meant to be a reminder of how serious school attendance is. At seven unexcused absences and parents can be summoned to court. So far this school year

See CHAMBER, Page A3

See SCHOOLS, Page A6

Big Mike’s Steakhouse coming to Millbrook

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Monday was a chamber of commerce day for Millbrook Mayor Al Kelley.

The sun was shining. It was warm. It was the perfect day for a new business announcement — and not just any business. It is one that will anchor a downtown vision for years to come.

clothing was appropriate before stepping out of his office about 2 yards away.

Members of the Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce attend the chamber’s “A Taste of Our Home Town” luncheon. CLIFF WILLIAMS/ THE HERALD

“I broke out my jeans and boots for this,” Kelley said. “I don’t normally wear them and it was a tough walk, but worth it.”

By Jake Arthur Chief Videographer

LEGISLATORS

PRESENT TOPICS OF UPCOMING SESSION

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

didn’t want to speculate on the

See SHOOTING, Page A3

PHoltville’s Futral Alabama principal of the year

Staff Report

“The weather has been a little rough,” Kelley said.

“We saw this (weather) window coming about eight days and knew it would work.”

The Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals

Just moments before Kelley made the official announcement Big Mike’s Steakhouse was coming to town, he made sure his

Big Mike’s Steakhouse was founded by ‘Big Mike’ Cole, Scott Powell and Caine Conway in Thomasville in 2013. It now has locations Andalusia, Orange Beach, Moundville, Auburn, Guntersville and one under construction in Bay Minette.

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

“I ate at the one in Orange Beach a few years ago,” Kelley said. “I thought it would be a good

See STEAKHOUSE, Page A6

ublic safety and education are huge priorities for almost everyone, especially for local representatives of the Alabama legislature.

“Kyle Futral is an exceptional principal and is very proactive and innovative in his thinking and approaches to managing his school,” Dennis said, As principal of Holtville High School, Futral has transformed the 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

As local state senators and representatives from Elmore County are getting ready for

the upcoming session, they are preparing to discuss the issues that affect growth and the safety of every area of the state. State senators Will Barfoot and Clyde Chambliss and state representatives Troy Stubbs and Jerry Starnes spoke with constituents at the annual local delegation breakfast hosted by the Millbrook Chamber of Commerce.

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

“Just like every session, you’ve got some big ticket items,” Barfoot said. “One thing I know for sure is going to be in that public safety big heading. That’s a pretty broad topic.”

As the son and nephew of retired law enforcement,

See SESSION, Page A6

Vehicle Title Problem?

We have a Solution!

Police Reports

WETUMPKA POLICE DEPARTMENT

JAN. 29

• James Sindle, 50, of Prattville, was arrested for three counts of failure to appear.

JAN. 28

• Morris Jackson Jr., 49, of Wetumpka, was arrested for three counts of failure to appear.

• Theft and fraudulent use of a credit or debit card was reported on Wilson Street.

• Theft was reported on Bridge Street.

Correction

231.

JAN. 27

• Artez Pitts, 41, of Montgomery, was arrested for five counts of failure to appear.

• Sean Adams, 45, of Eclectic, was arrested for failure to appear.

JAN 26

• Charles Dennis Jr., 20, of Wetumpka, was arrested for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Christopher McKenzie, 32, of Wetumpka, was arrested for three counts of failure to appear.

• Domestic violence was reported on U.S. Highway

An omission was made in listing the awards from the Elmore County Civic Improvement League’s Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration.

The entire list is as follows.

The ECCIL honored members of the Black community for their efforts.

The W.B. Doby Award was given to Hertisene Crenshaw. She was rec-

JAN. 25

• Tequila Phillips, 48, of Milton, Florida, was arrested for warrants from Santa Rosa County Florida.

• Peyton Cox, 22, of Wetumpka, was arrested for driving under the influence and reckless endangerment.

• Unlawful breaking and entering a vehicle was reported on Tallassee Street.

• Unlawful breaking and entering a vehicle was reported on Tuskeena Street.

JAN. 24

• Kevin Ray, 40, of

ognized for her commitment to education and impact on countless lives inspiring dreams and shaping futures.

The Thomas Daniel Outstanding Citizen Award went to William ‘Pocket’ Brown. He is credited with starting Elmore County’s first baseball league.

The Joseph Bradford Excellence Award was given to Bobby Mays,

Wetumpka, was arrested for failure to appear, attempting to elude, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance.

• Theft was reported on U.S. Highway 231.

JAN. 23

• Jerome Williams, 67, of Montgomery, was arrested for failure to appear.

• Jonathon Cunningham, 33, of Clanton, was arrested for failure to appear.

• William Perssinger, 63, of Wetumpka, was arrested for possession of marijuana.

who is president of the Elmore County NAACP.

The Lewis Peake Community Service Award was given to Bessi Piner.

The SW White Leadership Award was given to former Elmore County commissioner Earl Reeves.

The Percy Gill Award is given by the Percy Gill Foundation. It was awarded to Pamela Williams.

Millbrook police seeking public help in identifying theft suspect

TPI STAFF Staff Report

The Millbrook Police Department is investigating a felony theft and is seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspect.

MPD investigators released a photo of an unknown suspect wanted for a felony theft that occurred on Jan. 30 at the Millbrook Walmart, according to a release from Central Alabama CrimeStoppers.

Investigators said the pictured suspect, identified as a Black female, entered the business, stole $2,065.94 worth of merchandise, before passing the last point of sale, and exited the store at approximately 11:55 am. There are no other details available for release at this time.

Investigators seek to identify and locate the suspect and ask anyone with information to contact Central Alabama CrimeStoppers anonymously.

If you have any information regarding this case, the suspects, or whereabouts, please immediately call

SUBMITTED TPI

Millbrook Police Department and Central Alabama CrimeStoppers are looking to identify this suspect wanted for felony theft at the Millbrook Walmart.

the police or CrimeStoppers using the 24-hour tip line at 334-215-STOP (7867) or 1-833-AL1-STOP (2517867), use the text-to-tip feature by texting keyword 215stop to 738477 or download the P3-tips app.

Traffic stop leads to Secret Service investigation

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

An observant state trooper led to a discovery of credit card scanning devices.

The trooper noticed a car on Jan. 23 on Highway 9 with a Texas license plate that didn’t have its front plates, something that is required by Texas.

The law enforcement officer stopped the car and began to question the driver of the northbound vehicle.

“(The driver) stated the car is a rental and that they were headed home to Florida from visiting a friend in Alabama,” an incident report from the trooper states. “However, (the driver) was unable to tell me the exact name of the town he was coming from.”

The trooper began to question the passenger who said they were com-

ing from Georgia and headed to Florida.

“Due to their stories having discrepancies and the fact that they were traveling north instead of south, I had reasonable suspicion that they were possibly involved in criminal activity,” the trooper’s report said.

The trooper conducted a consensual search of the 2014 Nissan Altima and found several shipping receipts with different addresses in Georgia, prepaid debit cards, four phones and a package.

It was shipped overnight from Chicago to Montgomery. Yosniel Sotomayor, 39, of Miami admitted to the package being his and said it contained computer chips.

“I then asked (Sotomayor) to open

the package and his demeanor completely changed,” the trooper said.

Sotomayor opened the package, handed it to the trooper and walked away. It contained four small black credit card scanning devices.

“Once (State Bureau of Investigation) arrived on the scene, I was informed the Secret Service has an ongoing investigation on Mr. Sotomayor for placing and retrieving scanning devices in the Montgomery area,” the trooper’s report states. “... SBI collected the evidence on the scene and gave it to the Secret Service to further their case.”

Sotomayor was charged with encoded data fraud and taken to the Elmore County Jail. He has a $15,000 cash bond available to him.

“If he makes it, we have a hold on him from another agency,” Elmore County sheriff Bill Franklin said.

Elmore County woman pleads guilty to animal torture related crimes

TPI STAFF Staff Report

A woman with addresses in Elmore County pled guilty in Virginia federal court on Thursday to creating and distributing animal crushing videos.

The U.S. Department of Justice said in a release Stacey Storey, 49, joined co-conspirators from across the country and were members of private online chat groups on an encrypted messaging platform to fund, view, distribute and promote videos depicting the torture, murder and sexually sadistic mutilation of juvenile and adult monkeys.

“Between at least Aug. 22, 2021, and July 7, 2022, Storey received hundreds of electronic payments from co-conspirators to fund, among other things, the creation of new animal crush videos by videographers outside the United States,” a DOJ release states.

The DOJ said about June 21, 2022, Storey distributed a video to the online chat groups depicting the torture of a juvenile monkey using a jar of ants and sodomy with an object, causing the monkey’s death.

“Storey stated, ‘Enjoy this one ladies and gents,’ and suggested, ‘If you guys would like to send in a

small donation for this guy a little bonus for a job well done that we’ve always wanted to see would be absolutely amazing,’” the DOJ release said.

According to State of Alabama court records, Storey was facing legal issues in Elmore County about the same time. The records state she had addresses on Titus Road and Firetower Road in Elmore County and an address in Clanton. At the time, she was facing charges of second-degree theft from a Holtville Road address while living on Firetower Road. Between Dec. 1, 2020, and July 12, 2021, Storey “exerted

unauthorized control over a victim’s refrigerator, washing machine and dryer…. (Storey) also damaged windows, the kitchen floor and walls.”

A trial date was set and Storey did not appear for her court date. She ultimately pled guilty in October 2023 and was given a suspended sentence of 24 months. At the time she was living in Titus. According to a DOJ release, in June 2023 law enforcement seized Storey’s electronic devices,. Her electronic media and accounts contained over

Humane Society of Elmore County News

Spay and neuter your pets now

By REA CORD HSEC Executive Director

February is Spay/ Neuter Awareness Month and with 48% of our January intake (231) being under 6 months old, we know, first-hand, the importance of spaying and neutering pets to help save lives. Spaying and neutering dogs and cats not only helps pets and their owners, but also our communities as it helps prevent medical and behavioral problems from developing while also allowing pets to lead a longer, healthier and happier life.

BENEFITS

OF SPAYING AND NEUTERING PETS:

- Decreases the number of accidental litters, unwanted pets and reduces euthanasia in shelters.

- Reduces the risk of future medical problems and expenses including testicular cancer, uterine infections, ovarian and breast cancers and pyometra, a life-threatening condition in females.

- Reduces territorial marking tendencies, yowling/howling, escaping, and other troublesome behaviors.

- Lowers the probability pets will try to escape their home in search of a mate.

- Greatly impacts the number of dog bite inci-

dents in a community. Most dog bites (60–80 percent) are caused by intact male dogs. Pregnant or nursing female dogs are more likely to bite as well.

- Reduces your pet’s likelihood of biting or fighting which may also help protect you from potential legal action. Spayed/neutered pets are less likely to engage in behaviors that could cause problems with neighbors. Less fighting also means less bites to humans, less emergency vet visits and reduces disease transmission to humans and animals.

- Can also increase the longevity of your pet.

Results from the Banfield

Pet Hospital’s State of Pet Health 2013 Report, found a positive correlation between neutering dogs and cats and their lifespan. The study, which was carried out on around 2.5 million animals (2.2 million dogs and 460,000 cats), indicated that spayed cats live up to 39% longer, spayed dogs 23% longer, neutered male cats live 62% longer and neutered dogs live 23% longer than their un-altered counterparts.

- Helps with housetraining as both males and female will be less inclined to “mark” their home and territory.

- Saves the owner money over the long-term

Pet of the Week - Calliope

Calliope is a female Lab/Husky looking mix who weighs 61 pounds and is about 2 years old. She came to us as a stray and was never reclaimed. She is a bit shy at first but quickly warms up and loves attention. She is very sweet and gentle and is good 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 Calliope 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.

Downtown Wetumpka businesses get grants

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Main Street Wetumpka announced six downtown businesses were awarded grants through AL Spark Illuminate.

An initiative of Main Street Alabama and supported by the Small Business Administration, AL Spark is designed to energize emerging and growing businesses in designated Main Street Alabama communities across the state.

“We had six businesses to not only apply, but complete all the requirements of the grant program,” Main Street Wetumpka executive director Haley Greene said. “We were supposed to only select five winners but Main Street Alabama said to go with all six.” Greene said about 11 businesses started the process but only Our Place Cafe, Nick of Thyme, Oil & Vinegar, The Shoppes Downtown, Creed Gym Downtown, The GAB

Salon and Tiers of Sweetness completed the program.

AL Spark is a new marketing grant program dedicated to igniting the potential of small businesses and entrepreneurs. Each business will receive $1,000.

“It can be used for anything marketing related,” Greene said. “It can be used for new signs, window cling signs, personalized bags, vinyl wraps — pretty much anything marketing related.”

in less unwanted litters to care for, less fighting/ roaming and injuries that increasingly occur as a result, less medical problems as the pet ages.

- Can help save tax dollars or at least allow for better use of resources, as less roaming and problematic animals means less need for law enforcement responding to animal issues.

So please be part of the solution and spay or neuter your pet before it produces yet another unwanted litter or develops issues associated with not being “fixed.”

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

But the AL Spark grant is just the start for grants this year. Greene is in the middle of helping businesses get awarded up to $10,000. Eight businesses submitted five-minute pitch videos.

“We will have three judges who know nothing about the businesses,” Greene said. “It will be very unbiased. The judges will pick either two businesses to $5,000 each or one business will get $10,000.”

THOUSANDS ENJOY WETUMPKA

PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS TPI

Perfect weather helped the fourth annual Main Street Wetumpka Galentines be successful.

Thousands filled the streets of downtown Wetumpka, some dressed in pink, others with hearts, but all were there to have fun and shop a little.

If anyone walked in a shop, they found plenty of well-priced inventory and customers having fun.

“It’s meant to be a fun girls day outing,” Main Street Wetumpka executive director Haley Greene said. “Everything is surrounding that but we had a few guys come with their ladies.” Walking into businesses showed the effectiveness of the event.

“Almost everywhere is crowded,” Greene said. “All of the businesses are happy.”

GALENTINES IN

A parent’s ‘worst nightmare’

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Bethany Walters and Emma Bridgman were great friends.

The Tallassee girls were almost inseparable. They went everywhere together.

The day after Christmas two years ago, the girls went to Montgomery for the day. They got their hair done. They shopped and tried on clothes. They ate sushi at Kabuki, a favorite, before heading home. Walters drove her 2014 white Honda Accord first down Interstate 85 and then north on Highway 229. Bridgman was in the passenger seat. Just as they crossed into Elmore County something happened. Megan Gray was traveling south on the road towards the girls. Gray’s daughters were in the car with her.

“We saw headlights spinning in front of us,” Gray said. They had come upon a crash. Gray stopped and sprang into action. She ran to the white Honda Accord in the grass off the road.

“I saw Emma sitting on the ground,” Gray said. Gray’s daughters and Walters were in dance together.

“Once at a dance competition, one of my girls was hurt,” Gray said. “Bethany carried her up and down the stairs on her back to help make it easier for her.”

Gray said she never forgot what Bethany did for her girls at the competition.

“She was a role model,” Gray said.

TORTURE

Continued from A2

The day of the crash, she was looking closer at the driver, Gray recognized Walters.

“It was a momma’s worst nightmare,” Gray said. “I jumped in the passenger side. I screamed for Emma to call Bethany’s mother and tell her Bethany has been in a bad wreck.”

Gray moved to the back seat to better be able to hold Walters’ head still.

“She never opened her eyes,” Gray said. “She moaned a lot. Bethany asked for her dad. All I could tell her was, ‘He is coming.’”

Traveling southbound on Highway 229 in front of Gray was Yolanda Hurst, 45, of Montgomery. She stayed with her son Marquez Hurst who lived in Tallasssee and was in the passenger seat. They were on their way to visit a 14-year-old family member who had been shot in the head in Montgomery. He was at Baptist South.

“I remember a loud boom and my car spinning,” Yolanda Hurst said. “The loud boom must have been a crash. I was trying to hold the car from going into the ditch.” Hurst’s car stops in the middle of the roadway. She was groggy and in pain.

“I kept calling, ‘Marquez, Marquez,’” Hurst said. “He finally got up. He was staggering.”

The mother and son got out of

prison, the release says.

675 videos and 11,000 images depicting animal crushing.

Storey is scheduled to be sentenced on June 10 and faces up to five years in

the car as it burst into flames.

The two cars were more than 200 feet apart.

Walters died as a result of the crash. Bridgman and the Hursts were injured. Bridgman had lacerations. Yolanda Hurst had lacerations and broken bones including a collar bone. Marquez Hurst had an orbital fracture and lacerations to his face. A medical examiner testified Walters had bleeding from the ears signaling skull fractures. She also had multiple broken ribs with blood and fluid in her chest cavity. Bethany’s right ankle was dislocated and her left leg was severely wounded. The cause of Walters’ death was determined as multiple blunt force trauma.

The story of the crash played out in an Elmore County Judicial Complex courtroom this week.

Yolanda Hurst was being tried in criminal court for multiple counts including criminally negligent homicide.

Law enforcement testified Hurst never had a driver’s license but had been driving since she was 14. In fact she had several traffic tickets — enough that the state revoked her ability to ever get a driver’s license.

But Hurst was still at the wheel on Dec. 26, 2022 during a collision with Walters.

“If I could have (gotten a driver’s license), I would,” Hurst testified. “I couldn’t get it. I couldn’t read.”

Law enforcement measured the accident scene and used computer software to recreate it. It was esti-

According to state court records, Storey lived on Fitzpatrick Road and Firetower Road during the time. In December 2024 Storey filed paperwork with the courts that her address was in Clanton.

The DOJ said four others were also involved and had previously pleaded

Tallassee woman convicted in death of Tallassee teen

mated Hurst was driving between 74 and 85 MPH at the time of the collision. It was an estimate Hurst disagreed with.

“I was going about 40,” Hurst told law enforcement the night of the crash. “My car, it always picks up speed.”

Walters was likely traveling between 50 and 60 MPH, law enforcement said.

Neither appeared to have hit their brakes as Hurst crossed the centerline and struck Walters’ car in the northbound lane. The cars were so severely damaged law enforcement said data couldn’t be retrieved from the vehicles’ black boxes.

First responders soon arrived and relieved Gray in the back seat.

“I had to get back to my kids in the car,” Gray said while holding back tears. “They were crying.” Gray hugged Bethany’s parents Dana and Doug as she left the courtroom.

“She never got off the ambulance alive,” Doug testified. “We saw the ambulance rocking. We knew they were doing CPR. I can remember them pulling her off the ambulance doing CPR. I yelled at her to fight. We never saw her alive.”

The information surrounding the death was collected by law enforcement and the 19th Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office.

guilty to their part in the crimes.

Co-conspirator Michael Macartney, 51, of Chesapeake, Virginia, pled guilty on April 30, 2024. Macartney was sentenced on Oct. 1, 2024, to three years and six months in prison.

Co-conspirator Jeffrey Radtke, 61, of Bloomington, Minnesota, pled

Yolanda Hurst was charged with criminally negligent homicide, reckless driving, improper lane usage, driving while license was revoked, driving without insurance, speeding and two counts of third-degree assault — one for Bridgman and one for Marquez Hurst.

Yolanda Hurst was found guilty by Elmore County District Court Judge Glen Goggans and sentenced to the maximum misdemeanor crime sentence of one year in jail. Hurst appealed the conviction. The appeal led to this week’s jury proceedings. It took about an hour for the jury to find Hurst guilty on all counts except the third-degree assault against her son. She is due back in court March 3 for sentencing by Judge Joy Booth. Hurst faces a maximum sentence of one year in jail for the criminally negligent homicide. From the stand Hurst spoke to the Walters family.

“I’m not a bad person,” Hurst said. “I wouldn’t hurt a fly. I want to tell y’all I’m sorry. I ask for your forgiveness.”

But Doug still remembers his 17-year-old daughter who was “full of life” and graduated early from Tallassee High School just a couple weeks before the crash. Bethany was set to start nursing school in August 2023.

“She always had your back,” Doug said. “She was a competitive dancer and, boy, could she light up a stage.”

“It was presented to a grand jury as part of a death investigation,” district attorney C.J. Robinson said. “They recommended the misdemeanor charge of criminally negligent homicide.”

guilty on Sept. 24, 2024. Radtke is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 13 and faces up to five years in prison.

Co-conspirator Drexel Venero, 30, of Rockville, Maryland, pled guilty on December 12, 2024. Venero is scheduled to be sentenced on April 22, 2025.

for the various state agencies. They did not have to cut previously approved budgets.

Barfoot hopes the legislature can aid law enforcement staffing.

“I think that there’ll be a focus on trying to help municipalities and county governments around the state to recruit and retain officers,” Barfoot said. “In Elmore County, we stand behind our law enforcement officers, but I think we need to do something to make sure that they understand that we value them. We appreciate their service. They deal with a lot more than the average citizen does.”

Barfoot also expects further expansion and better definitions of types of crimes to be included under the Aniah Blanchard law that allows a quick hearing to hold in jail those arrested of certain crimes or having a certain criminal background.

Starnes worked for 25 years with the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Parole. He too sees the need for funding for public safety.

“I’ve always said public safety is your biggest economic development factor,” Starnes said. “If you don’t have a good, safe community you don’t have growth.”

Stanes said he is working on legislation to make parole officers state law enforcement officers and also on a bill to make the first $5,000 an Alabama National Guardsman earns from the military free of state income tax.

Gambling and gaming is another topic of discussion senators and representatives can prepare for, Barfoot said.

“Last year, we were right on the cusp of passing something for the people to vote for,” Barfoot said. “We had something that was at least palpable to send to the folks to vote for, and we were, we were a little short on that. So I suspect this year you’ll see something again. This is a topic that will not go away.”

Chambliss announced proudly to the audience at the Millbrook Civic Center that neither the general fund nor the education budget had been prorated in the last 14 years. It means the funding appropriated during the session is there at the end of the fiscal year

STEAKHOUSE

Continued from A1

fit here in Millbrook.”

The opportunity presented itself in November 2024 for Kelley to meet Cole, Powell and Conway. They had heard about 17 Springs and were interested in it. They met on site. Conversations were had. They then gathered at Smokehouse Pit Barbeque on Main Street afterwards.

A deal was soon struck the “old country way.”

“They said they wanted beer and wings,” Kelley said. “We had a bunch of wings and the conversa-

Chambliss credits a lot of the work on budgets and other matters, especially those affecting Elmore County through local legislation, to working with the other members of the local delegation. “That doesn’t mean we always agree,” Chambliss said. “We’re not supposed to always agree, but we always can talk through issues and have a little bit along the way as well.”

One of the ways to work together is frequent communication and a monthly lunch to make sure everyone is up to speed on issues.

Stubbs serves on the Education Ways and Means committee in the House of Representatives. Last year he was greatly involved in the school Choose Act. This year he expects there to be great discussion over how public schools are funded. Currently they are funded on a per student basis only through the education trust fund and its foundation program.

The current funding model assumes most students are equal; however, Stubbs says they are not.

“We have students who have financial challenges. We have students who have English as a second language, special education. We also have gifted students who may not be receiving the resources that they need to improve and grow,” Stubbs said. “We’re studying a student needs based formula to educate or to provide funding to educate the students in the state of Alabama.”

Stubbs said this model would increase funds allocated to STEM, arts and more.

“I do think that it will put us, our school systems, in a better position to have the funding that they need to meet the individual students’ needs where that student is at, versus just counting the numbers and giving an allocation based on the numbers,” Stubbs said.

The delegation said it was aware the Elmore County Commission was working on a local bill for Enhance Elmore. As of Thursday, they all said they hadn’t seen a bill yet.

The Alabama legislature went into session Feb. 4 and will close out the regular session by May 4. SESSION

tion continued.”

Kelley said he had done his homework. He knew they loved to locate Big Mike’s in old buildings.

Before they left, Kelley asked them to take a look at the old WELCOME

Food Pantry Building. It belongs to the city and was left vacant last year when the food pantry changed locations. It hadn’t been cleaned and there were no plans for it.

“I had said we might just tear it down,” Kelley said. “When they saw it, their eyes got as big as saucers.”

Kelley and the Big

Mike’s crew walked through the building. A few sketches were made.

“You could see the wheels turning,” Kelley said.

Big Mike himself said he didn’t speak too much.

“I’m a grill guy,” Cole said. “You’ll find me in the kitchen.”

Cole is a chef and restaurant manager who wanted to bring rural towns and smaller markets a quality steakhouse. Powell and Conway met Cole 30 years ago and share the vision as well.

“I threw my grill away after meeting this guy,” Powell said.

The trio are also cattle farmers but can’t grow enough beef to supply their restaurants. They source it from Texas and

80 petitions have been filed in Elmore County juvenile court in regards to truancy. Just last week Jackson had to sign her first warrant related to truancy.

In less than a year, Baxley has ordered at least three parents to serve time in the Elmore County Jail related to truancy.

“Students have to be in school to learn,” Baxley said.

Baxley has decades of experience as a criminal prosecutor and has seen

Willis said the main reason is to ensure if documents and other information is needed for a council meeting, there would be ready access.

Wetumpka council meetings to move

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

The Wetumpka City Council currently meets in the council chambers of the old city administration building, which is now the Wetumpka Public Library.

The City of Wetumpka is going through the procedure to change the location to the city administration building.

“We have been here since this building was built,” Mayor Jerry Willis said. “This new location has a view of the river.”

Willis said the main reason is to ensure if documents and other information is needed for a council meeting, there would be ready access.

“All of that is located there,” Willis said.

The new council chambers will be on the second floor of the city administration building at 408 South Main Street.

Willis said public works is constructing the area where the council will sit in such a way it can be split into three pieces and used to hold food and other

strive to provide quality.

The location fits in with a growing downtown Millbrook.

Its Main Street location means easy access to Cobbs Ford Road and Interstate 65. It is also easily accessible from eastern Elmore County.

Kelley said the project is just the beginning for the area.

“Big Mike’s is a destination,” Kelley said. “We’ve been looking for that catalyst to start this downtown area. It will attract people from all across the River Region.”

The Millbrook City Council recently approved development of a master plan for Village Green which is across the street from the Main Street and Grandview Road location.

how an education keeps many from issues in criminal courts.

Currently more than 7,000 students have one or more unexcused absences.

Some parents have complained that excuses were sent but never recovered from a young student’s backpack. Jackson has centralized and modernized how parents can submit excuses for their child’s absence.

Parents can now go online within three days of the absence and file the excuse.

“It eliminates the issues of sending it with the student,” Jackson said.

So far this school year more than 8,500 excuses have been submitted.

A walkway along the creek is also planned.

items if the room is needed for a reception.

The council will vote on the amended ordinance at its next meeting.

IN OTHER ACTION THE WETUMPKA CITY COUNCIL:

• Approved minutes of the Jan. 21 meeting.

• Approved a conveyance of property with the State of Alabama, the Elmore County Commission and the City of Wetumpka.

• Approved an agreement with FanFood Product Services for point of sale ordering at city concession locations.

• Approved an addendum to an agreement with Local Government Services LLC to negotiate franchise agreements with Southern Light and Windstream.

• Gave permission to First Baptist Church of Wetumpka to host a community Easter egg hunt at the Farmers Market April 16. The next meeting of the Wetumpka City Council is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 17.

said. “It’s estimated that it can open in August.”

The location is planned to have about 200 parking spaces, enough to accommodate more 5,000 square feet of dining space.

The city gave the Millbrook Redevelopment Authority the building to renovate and lease to Big Mike’s.

“Doing that way made it an easier process,” Millbrook project manager Stuart Peters said. “It will have a gabled roof and open design.”

Weather has played an issue in getting construction started but has allowed all the bureaucracy of moving the property through the redevelopment process to work.

“It can be a logistical headache at times,” Peters

allows school staff to request home visits from central office personnel when students are excessively absent to try to determine the root cause.

Excused absences help keep students away from Baxley’s court room but Jackson also keeps up with attendance as it relates to the Alabama Report Card. Reported by the Alabama Department of Education, chronic absenteeism affects each school’s score. Chronic absenteeism is when students are absent 18 or more days during the school year regardless if it’s excused or not.

Big Mike’s Steakhouse has been rated the No. 1 steakhouse in Alabama by the Alabama Cattleman’s Association. It is also rated in the top nine restaurant destinations in the state.

Kelley likes the way the Big Mike’s proprietors operate.

“They want to make a difference in a town like ours,” Kelley said. “I can’t appreciate that enough. I believe in the next few years we’re going to see our downtown evolve into a significant economic hub for our city. Big Mike’s will foster a positive impact in the area and create a sense of pride and excitement within our community.”

“When you look at some of the students, they were out sick with flu or COVID,” Jackson said. “Since they have come back, they haven’t missed a day.” SCHOOLS

In the 2022-23 school year, 17.66% students were considered chronically absent. Last school year that number grew to 20.15%.

The online system also

MURDER

Continued from A1

“Deputies forced entry into the residence and discovered Allen Phillips deceased inside,” a release from the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office stated. “He was found in the later stages of decomposition with evidence of a fatal gunshot to the chest. Evidence at the

Currently the most chronically absent students are those in kindergarten and eighth grade. This school year about 17% of students are already considered chronically absent. Jackson said it indicates chronic absenteeism may be higher this school year but she is still hopeful.

Jackson looks at trends during the school year in an effort to predict which students might be categorized as chronically absent at the end of the school year. Some of those students may have 10 absences currently.

scene included a firearm and shell casing.”

Deputies said Phillips’ wife, Tequila Phillips. was developed as a suspect. It is unknown why Phillips fled to Wetumpka.

WPD’s only involvement was the arrest.

The death remains under investigation by the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office.

I beg your pardon

Greetings from the corner of Bridge and Bridge!

It is an unseasonably warm day as I write this column. I prefer that to unseasonably cold, but I, for one, wish our weather patterns would level out to some extent. All this up and down wreaks havoc on my sinuses!

Whenever I hear the word pardon, my mind immediately goes to the lyric of a favorite tune. The words I beg your pardon. I never promised you a rose garden begin to float in my mind. Those words were written by American singer-songwriter Joe South in 1967. Recently, a different representation of pardon has dominated conversation. The topic of presidential pardon has once again reared its head. That head is not always an ugly one, but

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

REV. JONATHAN YARBORO Columnist

it certainly has been lately.

There is good reason for that. The power of pardon was awarded to the office of president by Article 2 of the United States Constitution. There are many different types of clemency that fall under the president’s power. They include: pardon, amnesty, commutation, and reprieve.

A pardon releases a person from punishment and restores all civil liberties. Amnesty is the same as the pardon but is extended to an entire class of individuals. Commutation reduces the sentence imposed

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

by a federal court. A reprieve delays imposition of a sentence or punishment.

While the pardon power is robust, there are three important limitations on it. First, a crime must have been committed for a pardon to be issued. Second, the presidential power is limited to federal crimes. Lastly, the president may not issue pardons in cases of impeachment. Other than these criteria, there are no constitutional restrictions on a president’s pardon power.

The concept of executive office pardon originated in England. It was introduced as a means of granting mercy. Now there’s a word that has garnered a lot of attention lately, but I digress. The concept is easy enough to understand. The person in charge should have the ability to grant mercy in certain situations.

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.

When introduced by the founders of our nation, there was much discussion regarding oversight. The possibility of having Congress vote on presidential pardons was introduced but, in the end, did not make its way to the Constitution. It was finally decided that no other form of government should be able to alter the executive power.

The most recent rounds of presidential pardons should give rise to some much-needed conversation. Whether the actions came from a blue oval office or a red one is of little significance. The heart of the matter is identical regardless of the actual person or party behind them. Our system of justice is in trouble folks.

The supreme leaders of both parties granted pardons that, in my observation, have little to do

(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

with the constitutional intent of the power to grant them. In one way or another, both acknowledged some manner of retribution as their justification. In other words, pardons were granted out of fear that our system of justice would fail the recipients.

All citizens of these United States should pay attention to the conversation these pardons have given rise to. We must all move beyond party affiliation and allegiances and towards the thing that makes us all the same. We are all citizens of the same nation, and our system of justice is being further damaged by actions coming from the top. That is never the path to follow.

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.

Local Legend: McQueen receives another prestigious award

By AUSTIN ELLIOTT TPI Staff

The only thing Arthur McQueen hasn’t been honored with now is a statue.

The Stanhope Elmore running back was named the River Region River Region Quarterback Club Big School Player of the Year for his offensive performances last season.

“Historically, this award has a tremendous amount of significance, and very rarely does it go outside the city of Montgomery,” Stanhope coach Hunter Adams said.

“If you look at the number of high level collegiate players and professional players that have come through this area and won this award, this is the first time in the history of Stanhope Elmore High

Wetumpka softball looks to continue success with experienced lineup

By AUSTIN ELLIOTT TPI Staff

Things didn’t quite go the way Wetumpka’s softball team wanted it to in 2024.

After winning the state championship in 2023, the Indians had high expectations for the following season. But just because it didn’t end in the same fashion doesn’t mean the expectation has changed.

Despite graduating some key pieces in Division I pitchers Mya Holt and Ella Watson, there’s still a ton of returners for the Wetumpka squad.

“They got a lot of the spotlight last year,” Wetumpka coach Daryl Otwell said. “But some people forgot about some of the position players we are returning that we know going into this season have got a lot of experience in those defensive positions and have played huge innings for us already.”

Alyssa Brown returns at third base after playing for the state championship squad as a freshman. Fouryear starter Lily Davenport will return at first base; she was an all-state player a season ago. Ava Farmer and Bailey Carlisle also return at second base and shortstop, respectively.

With the Indians’ infield returning with big inning experience under their belts, the outfield is what Otwell feels very optimistic about.

Although the Indians’ infield returns a lot of experience, Otwell said the biggest strength will be in the outfield.

“We’re really excited about our outfield, because we feel like we got six

girls right now, all in competition out there,” Otwell said. “That just means more depth in the outfield for us,” Otwell said. Looking to replace Holt, who was the Gatorade Player of the Year as a junior, the Indians will rely on a couple of young arms in in Taylor Carlisle and Sophie Arant as well as senior Laney Jones.

“Laney has thrown a lot of innings throughout our fall work and shows some signs of really good stuff, so I’m really excited to see what she does,” Otwell said. “I’m also really hoping that she can get a lot of the innings this year and work with our young girls who both have incredible potential in the circle.”

Despite Carlisle and Arant being in seventh and eighth grades, respectively, Otwell is excited about the progress they have already shown.

“I like the work that they’ve done this fall and I like their eagerness to learn and grow,” Otwell said. “I’m really excited to kind of see it play out, obviously knowing a lot of people are going to focus on their age, but that’s something that we’ve prepared for.”

Offensively, the Indians are bringing back some thump to their batting order.

Davenport is coming off a .377 batting average last season during which she smacked 11 doubles. Brown is heading into her junior season as the Indians’ backstop and batted .360 last year.

The first pitch of the season will be at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 18 at Holtville.

School that anyone’s received this award, and nobody’s more deserving of that than Arthur.” McQueen has shattered virtually every school record on the offensive side of the football. McQueen carried the ball for nearly 2,000 yards and found the end zone 23 times in his senior season

PLAYOFF BOUND

By LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN Managing Editor

Sometimes the shots are falling. And sometimes they’re not.

When one team is seemingly on fire and another team can’t buy a basket, a lot can happen — even in a short period of time.

That’s exactly what happened to Stanhope Elmore’s boys basketball team, which suffered a 70-60 loss at the hands of Wetumpka in the Class 6A Area 4 tournament Monday night.

And it was one quarter that made all the difference.

“We found a rhythm in the second quarter,” Wetumpka coach Steven Thomas said. “(Miller Lombardi) got us going, getting a couple of 3s. When you hit a cou -

ple, you kind of get in a groove and you feel like it leaks out to everybody. Miller hit a couple, then you have other guys that may not be shooters but are capable of knocking them down, and they kind of step up and shoot well as well.”

When two teams meet several times throughout the season, it’s no surprise they know what makes each other tick. And it looked like it was going to be a back-and-forth brawl early on, but Wetumpka quickly separated itself in the second quarter.

Although the Indians outscored Stanhope only 16-7 in the second frame, it wasn’t until the final two minutes the Mustangs even got a bucket in the quarter.

“We kind of let our foot off the gas right there

Making Bulldog history

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

For the first time ever, the boys and girls basketball teams at Holtville High School are in the playoffs in the same year. It is the first time in more than two decades that the boys team has made it to the playoffs. This year’s advancement for the boys’ team came as a result of a 51-32 win over Booker T. Washington Magnet High School.

“You can tell just by the look on my face right now, this is something

See HISTORY, Page B3

at the end of the second quarter,” Thomas said. “We should have kept being a little more aggressive, and third and fourth quarter, we got into a rhythm with more aggressive attacking.”

Although Stanhope tried to claw back from the deficit, Wetumpka shot a perfect 10-for-10 from inside the paint in the second half, making it impossible for the Mustangs to get the score closer than seven points. Justin Godwin, Chris Robinson and Andrew Voyles did most of the scoring for Wetumpka, but a few key 3-pointers from Lombardi, Tom Suddith and John Winger made all the difference in the Indians’ attack.

“We have 14 guys that

See PLAYOFF, Page B3

Holtville boys basketball advances to playoffs

Lady Bulldogs going back to the playoffs

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

For the second time in three years, the Holtville High School Lady Bulldogs are going to the playoffs. It’s also the second time ever for the team to make the postseason.

“We knew a win tonight gave us a trip to the playoffs,” Holtville coach Clint Pitchford said. “Winning tonight guarantees us two more games. What’s at stake now is the area championship and a chance to host a playoff game.”

The Lady Bulldogs lead from the opening basket in Friday night’s game against Booker T. Washington Magnet in the first round of the area tournament.

The Lady Bulldogs won 48-21 but they never let BTW get in the game.

“We executed the game plan really well,” Pitchford said. “We’ve kind of tweaked some things offensively with some different personnel. We wanted to play through our defense, great pressure, turn the ball over, attack the rear, and they did all that tonight.” It was a game that

was never in question especially with the all around effort from freshman Hailey Phelps.

“She is usually always our leading rebounder,” Pitchford said. “She’s sometimes leading in assists and

she’s one of the highest on the teams in steals. She’s just a great, all round player.”

Pitchford said Phelps has been trying to find her shot. She stepped up especially offensively scoring 18 points in the

game.

“We’ve had to wait for her to kind of grow into the scoring aspect,” Pitchford said. “She grew up a lot tonight. I told her to keep playing and the scoring is basically gonna come.

She’s starting to figure out, attack the rim, and be aggressive. She was aggressive all night and kept producing.”

Phelps was aided by Kali Ingram who scored 11 and Ragen Roberts scored 10.

Next up is a trip to Marbury on Tuesday night for the area championship.

“They’re a really good team with a lot of seniors,” Pitchford said. “We will have to bring our best game.”

Mustangs cruise to a win at home

By AUSTIN ELLIOTT TPI Staff

Judah Gilbert has been a mentor for his young Stanhope Elmore squad all season long.

Gilbert has been very productive this season, while also being the floor general for the Mustangs. The Mustangs starting five rotation only has two seniors in it with Gilbert being one and the Mustang’s big man, Kam Anderson, being the other.

On senior night, Gilbert scored 28 points in a Mustang’s win over the Tallassee, 78-57. Gilbert knocked down all his free throw attempts going a perfect 13-13 from the line.

Coach Austin Moncus is very pleased with Gilbert’s performance as well as that of the rest of his team’s performance as well.

“Our seniors really came out and played well. Judah had 28 (points), 13 for 13 from the line which is efficient, and then Kam came out and played big minutes for us which always helps,” Moncus said.

Gilbert is averaging 12.8 points per game and 1.8 steals per game showing his ability to be dynamic on the floor. The point guard has an innate ability to read his opponent on offense.

Anderson has also been huge for the Mustangs this season. Besides just being a physical presence in the post, Anderson also is averaging eight rebounds per game.

“Kam is our big man and that’s a luxury to have, especially when we don’t have to worry about him getting into foul trouble all the time, because he plays smart and with pace,” Moncus said.

Mustangs win thriller in last home game

By AUSTIN ELLIOTT TPI Staff

Momentum was certainly in Stanhope Elmore’s favor heading into the area tournament, which began Monday.

The Mustangs won their final home game of the regular season last Tuesday, taking down the Tallassee Tigers, 48-47.

Aniya Burton had a monster game as the junior forward put up a team-high 22 points for the Mustangs. Burton is averaging 12 points per game this season, and has played a huge part in the Mustangs’ late season push.

“She’s our leader,” Stanhope coach Kelvin Stokes said. “She’s literally our floor leader, and she’s our vocal leader, and then she’ll lead by default, because she plays so hard. When other girls see kids

playing hard, by default, they are gonna look up to them either way.”

In the victory, the Mustangs also got a staggering 18 rebounds from eighthgrade star Kuraji Crosby. Averaging 13 rebounds per game, Crosby is in the top five in that category for all of 6A.

Heading into area play, Stokes is attempting to prepare his team for the challenges to come.

“I told them that this is what it is all about, and it is awesome that we are really starting to take full stride at this point in the season knowing that these next few days are about to get crazy with the area tournament,” Stokes said.

“In the area tournament, everything is on the line.

You have to give it all.” The Mustangs played Percy Julian in Game 1 of the area tournament on Monday.

Calhoon sworn in as new circuit court judge

By CLIFF WILLIAMS News Editor

Friends shared the lectern as Dee Dee Calhoon was sworn in at the 19th Judicial Circuit Place 4 Circuit Court Judge.

Judge Calhoon and Federal Magistrate Judge Jerusha T. Adams were workplace acquaintances in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Montgomery.

“At first, we were just colleagues,” Adams said. “I did not know much about her in the first two years we worked together. I observed that she was beautiful, friendly and kind. I also observed that she and Troy were the life of the party at every Christmas party, every year.”

One day Adams brought her daughter Sophia to work. Calhoon brought her youngest daughter Bella.

“The next second they were running around through the office together, laughing and playing,” Adams said.

day.

“Bear with me,” Calhoon said. “I’ve often said that it’s a lot easier to stand up and represent other people and advocate for them. But when you have to talk about yourself and be personal, it’s a lot more difficult.”

Calhoon understands the difficulty in the new judgeship for the 19th Circuit covering Autauga, Chilton and Elmore counties. Her primary role will be all the divorce and child custody cases across the circuit. It is about 300 currently.

“These cases are emotionally charged and involve people going through some of the most difficult times of their lives,” Calhoon said.

“One of the dreams that we shared was to become judges,” Adams said. “It was like two puzzle pieces magically fitting together that can never be separated.”

Ten years later, the mothers and daughters are still inseparable. Adams was sworn as a fed-

Soon, Adams and Sophia were invited to the home of Calhoon and Bella. The mothers sat and talked for hours as the girls played. The mothers shared stories of the girls building a foundation of friendship.

eral magistrate judge in 2019. It was Calhoon’s turn to see the dream come true Thursday.

Sophia and Bella were in attendance as Calhoon was sworn in. Adams introduced Calhoon to area judges, fellow attorneys and local officials in the Autauga County Courthouse.

“She had the intellect and

tenacity to attend law school while raising three young children,” Adams said.

Calhoon has represented many clients in her career, some in the very Autauga County Courthouse Courtroom where she took the oath of office. She said she has never had an issue speaking up for a client, but she paused Thurs-

The new judge said she thought long and hard before campaigning for the bench. She knew the challenges, but Calhoon decided it was her calling.

“Families are the most important aspect of our community,” Calhoon said. “While it’s difficult and these issues are not easy to deal with, we need people who are willing to step up to handle those matters.”

that hasn’t been done here in a long time,” Holtville boys coach Greg Parker said. “When I got here last year, one of my goals was to make the playoffs in the first two years. These guys have worked so hard, been through a lot of adversity, and it’s just awesome. It’s awesome to do something that hadn’t been done in a long time.”

Friday night the Bulldogs never trailed the Yellow Jackets. Though it was until the final minutes of the game before Holtville pulled away. Throughout the entire game, the Bulldogs relied on senior post Arkevious Turner.

“He has been our glue. He’s been the guy that we hang our hat on,” Parker said. “He’s an old school player. You don’t see a lot of post players like that. When he plays good, we play good.”

Turner kept BTW from finding much ground in the paint. He pulled down the rebounds and found the bottom of the net. He finished the night with 11 points.

Sophomore Bulldog Kelton Shuford added 15 on the night, all from either 3-point land or at the free-throw line.

“He’s been hot,” Parker said. “I think he’s averaged 16 points or better the last three or four games. He does a lot of good things.”

Holtville was able to hold BTW star Michael-Christipher Reese to a single three pointer the entire game. He went to the line a couple of times but only scored 6 points.

The Bulldogs did it by keeping a face in front of the offensive star.

“The first time we played number them, he scored, he dropped 26 on us,” Parker said. “Then we played him again and we just did a box and one on him. We did alright and we did it again. We said we’re gonna make somebody else beat us. That was the game plan tonight.”

Continued from B1 campaign.

Parker feels confident in his Bulldogs at the moment. They are five and one in the last six games. Now Parker and his boys team will join the girls team in Marbury on Tuesday.

The boys teams split in the regular season.

“They beat us at their place, and we beat them here,” Parker said. “We know we’re going to get their best. It’s a rivalry. They know us. We know them. Our guys got to come to play. I feel like we’re playing better now than earlier in the season. We will throw the ball up and see what happens.” HISTORY

NIGHTMARE

Continued from A4

Because the American workforce doesn’t want to. Budde’s comments reveal immigrants have become our slaves. They clean up after us. They dig the ditches and do all the dirty, menial work we don’t want to do. Now, those who know me

PLAYOFF

Continued from B1

we could throw out there and pick it right up from the inbound and go for 32

MCQUEEN

Continued from B1

minutes,” Thomas said. “Just having that athleticism and just having that speed all across the board, we try to use that to our advantage and we’ve done that a decent amount this year.”

Stanhope Elmore coach Hunter Adams knew before the season he was going to rely heavily on his workhorse due to having a young quarterback.

“Arthur personifies and embodies what we want from football players at Stanhope Elmore high school, work ethic and character,” Adams said. Adams believes McQueen has accomplished so much because of his humble demeanor and willingness to work on his craft.

well know I do not like to get my hands dirty. It’s just a thing with me. But I still work hard. I went to college, got a degree, worked my way up from the bottom in the accounting field. Then, after the great Russell exit, I started over and worked my way up again. And that always entailed tasks I didn’t want to do (and sometimes my hands got dirty).

The victory not only seals Wetumpka’s fate in the area championship, which will be at 6 p.m. Wednesday at Percy Julian, it also guarantees the Indians a spot in the postseason.

“Those are the two things that you can always depend on, and those are the two things that he lives his life with day in and day out, that is why he’s as productive of a football player as he is,” Adams said.

Stanhope Elmore principal Ewell Fuller said players like McQueen will be the spark the program needs to return to traditionally dominant ways.

“This is about legacy and legacy means the world,” Fuller said. “We describe him as a quiet warrior. He doesn’t talk a whole lot, obviously, but however, the way he walks and handles himself in the hallways, in between classes, in the cafeteria, after school,

More and more, Americans are unwilling to do the dirty work. They don’t want to start at the bottom and work their way up. They want everything handed to them while they do as little as possible for more money than most small to medium businesses can afford to pay. So they bounce from one job to another. In between jobs, they pretend to job hunt

“These group of guys, I’ve had them for the last three years, so to see the work they put in to really change the culture, that pays dividends,” Thomas said.

before school, all those different things, Art is exactly what you want in a student athlete,” Fuller said.

McQueen said he was honored to receive the award but he also gave credit to his team and coaching staff for getting him to that point.

“It means a lot, knowing that a lot of my hard work has paid off, and knowing that my teammates and my coaches helped me get to where I’m at right now,” McQueen said. “I couldn’t be more blessed to receive this reward today, so I’m just thankful for everything. I’m blessed that I went to Stanhope because it’s a very good school and I love it.”

to qualify for a government check claiming they just haven’t found the right fit yet. The new American Dream is to let the government take care of us. But be warned, a fat, slothful, lazy society is a society headed for destruction from within. One of the major downfalls of the Roman Empire was the effect an overreliance on slave labor and related attitudes had on the economy. We’re no different. If America doesn’t get back to work and stop expecting taxpayers to support them, the dream will become a nightmare — for all of us.

Angela Mullins is the director of business & digital publishing at Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. and the author of the mystery series “Working for Uncle Henry.”

Lake River & Classi eds

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Keep an eye on your assets, your bank accounts and anything to do with inheritances and shared property. Something unexpected could impact these areas. (You snooze, you lose.) When it comes to money, information is power. Spend some time and do your homework. Tonight: Explore!

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Someone close to you, probably a partner or spouse, might throw you a curveball today. They might say or do something that surprises you, or perhaps something unexpected has happened to them. Either way, you might feel caught off guard. Be vigilant about your kids. Tonight: Check your nances.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Keep your eyes open. Something related to your job, your pet or your health might surprise you today. An older family member might be helpful or have practical suggestions for you. It never hurts to listen to the advice of someone more experienced in case it benets you. Tonight: Cooperate.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Parents should be vigilant today, because this is a potentially accident-prone day for their kids. Therefore, keep your eyes open and know where your kids are at all times. Meanwhile, you might devise a plan and set it in action. You want some practical results now and in the future. Tonight: Work.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Your home routine might be interrupted today. Small appliances might break down or a minor breakage could occur. Surprise company might appear at your door. Take it easy. Get dressed. Stock the fridge. Take a practical approach to things so that you’re ready for anything. Tonight: Socialize.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) Pay attention to everything you say and do, because this is an accident-prone day. However, on the upside, you might come up with a brilliant, genius-like idea. New faces and new places are likely. Listen to the advice of someone older or more experienced. This might help you. Tonight: Relax.

noticed.

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Public Notices

the time and place of the sale. If sale is voided, Mortgagee/ Transferee shall return the bid amount to the successful purchaser. The Mortgagee/Transshall not be liable to the purchaser for any damages. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the purchaser at the sale shall be only entitled to a return of the bid amount. The Mortgagee/ Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement Servicing, LLC, Mortgagee/ney for Mortgagee/Transferee. THIS OFFICE IS ACTING AS 244967 PUBLIC NOTICE MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

sors 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

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Public Notices

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE ELMORE COUNTY

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Teimesha Mott, an unmarried woman, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for Real Estate Funding Corporation, its successors and assigns, on August 9, 2019, said mortgage recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, at

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed on August 1, 2012 by Larry Wayne Ellis aka Larry W. Ellis and Lennie R. Ellis a/k/a Lennie Ellis, originally in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Branch Banking and Trust Company, and recorded in RLPY Book 2012 at Page 38815 on August 8, 2012, Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, and secured indebtedness having been transferred to Truist Bank. LOGS Legal Group LLP, as counsel for Mortgagee or Transferee and under and by virtue of power of sale contained in the said mortgage will, on March 20, 2025, sell at public outcry to the highest bidder at the main entrance of the Elmore County, Alabama, Courthouse in the City of Wetumpka, during the legal hours of sale, the following real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to wit: Lot 4, Sandy Pines Estates, as shown on plat recorded in the Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 13, Page 104 For informational purposes only, the property address is: 4271 AL 36093. ANY PROPERTY ADDRESS PROVIDED IS NOT PART OF THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY SOLD HEREIN AND IN THE EVENT OF ANY DISCREPANCY, THE LEGAL DESCRIPTION REFERENCED HEREIN SHALL CONTROL.

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as Mortgagee/Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash the main entrance of the Courthouse at Elmore County, Aladuring 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 24, BLOCK H, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OF COTTON LAKES PLAT NO. 12, AS SAME IS RECORDED IN THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF ELMORE COUNTY, ALABAMA, IN PLAT BOOK 25, AT PAGE 24.

formational purposes: 60 High Cotton Court Wetumpka, AL 36092

TIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF

This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. Furthermore, the property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the mortgagee, nor the employees, agents or authorized representative of the mortgagee make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition, including those suggested by Code of Ala. (1975) § 35-4-271, expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars and no/100 funds at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price must be paid inness on the next business day LOGS Legal Group LLP at the address indicated below. LOGS Legal Group LLP reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder, or to reschedule the sale, should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. Truist Bank, and its successors and assigns Mortgagee or Transferee LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP 10130 Perimeter

THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumexist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must ten-

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices

p 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 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

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Janet M Rogers married and David Rogers, married, originally in favor of Regions Mortgage, Inc., on January 24, 2002, said mortthe Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in RLPY Book 2002 Page 10265; the undersigned Regions Bank dba Regions Mortgage, as Mortgagee/ Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on February 13, 2025, during the legal hours of sale, all of its rights, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 23, according to the Plat of Blue Ridge Valley Subdivision Plat No. 1, as the same appears of of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book 10, at Page 51.. Property street address for informational purposes: 184 AL 36093. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) to Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price plus any deed recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law at the address indicated below. Tiffany & Bosco, P.A. reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due. The Mortgagee/Transferee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation. Regions Bank dba Regions Mortgage, (“Transferee”) Tiffany & Bosco, P.A., 2501 20th Place South, Suite 300, Homewood, AL 35223 www.tblaw.com TB File Number: 24-05790-RM-AL Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 22, 29 and Feb. 5, 2025 25-00027 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

Public Notices

y 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 Right Of Way, South 00 Deg. 40 Min. 41 Sec, West, Along Said Section Line, 21.86 Feet To A Concrete Monument Thence North 88 Deg. 57 Min. 10 Sec. West, 30.00 Feet To An Iron Pin; Thence South 00 Deg. 40 Min. 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. 06 Min. 47 Sec. West, 1813.92 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, 80.50 Feet To An Iron Pin; Thence North 52 Deg. 34 Min. 48 Sec. East, 967.47 Feet To The Point Of Beginning. The Above-Described Property Lies In The North Half Of The Southeast Quarter And 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

Public Notices

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 Mortgage Servicing

Paul K. Lavelle, Esq.

Attorney for Mortgagee Spina, & Lavelle, P.C. One Perimeter Park SouthSuite 400N Birmingham, Alabama 35243 (205) 298-1800 30-FC-24-01543

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Kevin Randall Tolliver, unmarried man, originally in favor of Regions Bank d/b/a Regions Mortgage, on June 5, 2014, said mortgage recorded in the of Elmore County, Alabama, in the undersigned Regions Bank d/b/a Regions Mortgage, as Mortgagee/Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Wetumpka, Elmore County, Alabama, on February 27, 2025, during the legal hours of sale, all of its rights, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Tract I, according shown by plat made by John

street address for informational

Public Notices

gg hours of sale, the following described real estate situated in Elmore County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot Nine (9), Block Four (4) of Meadbrook Subdivision Number Two (2) as the same apthe Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, in Plat Book Five (5) at Page 83. For informational purposes only, the property address is: 204 Gunter Ave., Wetumpka, AL 36092. Any property address provided is not part of the legal description of the property sold herein and in the event of any discrepancy, the legal description referenced herein shall control. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS-IS, WHEREIS” BASIS, SUBJECT TO ANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO.

Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by mortgage as well as the expenses of foreclosure, including a reasonable attorney’s fees and other purposes set out in said mortgage. Trustmark National Bank Paul K. Lavelle, Esq. Attorney for Mortgagee Spina, & Lavelle, P.C. One Perimeter Park SouthSuite 400N Birmingham, Alabama 35243 (205) 298-1800 40-FC-24-01510

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 22, 29 and Feb. 5, 2025 40-FC-24-01510

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR PREQUALIFICATIONS AND BIDS

Project: Warehouse to Support New Specialized Men’s Facility in Elmore County, Alabama, Phase I Demolition and Sitework.

PRE-QUALIFICATIONS PRO-

law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property help persons avoid or delay theney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five

balance of the purchase price plus any deed recording costs and transfer taxes must be paid next business day at the Law

the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timeThe 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 Regions Bank d/b/a Regions

25-00070 PUBLIC NOTICE

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE

Default having being made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage dated March 29, 2021 executed by Jeremy Tyler Gillean an unmarried person, in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., solely as a nominee for Trustmark National Bank, said Mortgage being recorded March 29, 2021, in RLPY Book 2021, Page 27400, Probate of Elmore County, Alabama; having later been assigned to Trustmark National Bank by instrument recorded in Book 2024, Page 64826, in the of Elmore County, Alabama. Said default continues and notice is hereby given that the undersigned, Trustmark National Bank, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash at the main entrance to the County Courthouse, Elmore County, Alabama on 02/26/2025, during the legal

Public Notices

Construction Documents, of the Architect. Electronic images of bid documents may be viewed online for a deposit of $0.00 through the Architect’s online plan room at www.sslarchitecture.com by accessing the Info Exchange login. For access to plans via this website, email Angelica Carol (acarol@sslarch.com) or call SS&L at (334) 263-5162. These documents may be used only for the purpose of bidding and constructing this project. Anyone logging into the site through the website will be e-mail. The architect retains all copyrights and ownership of the documents. Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Architect or copies thereof. All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Architect; the bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying his or her current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owner’s judgment, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted.

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 22, 29 and Feb. 5, 2025 BIDS 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 LEGISLATURE 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.

POSALS will be received on behalf of the Alabama Department of Corrections,for the below referenced project until 2:00pm Central Standard Time on Friday, February 7th 2025. The intended to identify responsible and competent bidders relative to the requirements of the project.

PRE-QUALIFICATION PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS may be obtained from the project Architect either by phone (334263-5162) or by email (acarol@ sslarch.com) to Angelica Carol. ONLY CONTRACTORS whocation process within the stated time limits, and which are properly licensed for this type of work in accordance with criteria established by the state Licensing Board for General Contractors under the Provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, will be considered of this project.

A MANDATORY PRE-BID

CONFERENCE is Scheduled for Friday, Feb 21st, 2025, at 2:00pm CST at the project site located on Marion Spillway Road, approximately .3 miles East of the intersection of Marion Spillway Road and AL-143.

SCOPE OF WORK includes complete demolition of a 20,000 sf single-story storage building, complete demolition and hazardous material abatement of a single-story 56,000 sf meat processing facility, disconnection and removal of existing utilities, pavement demolition, building pad preparation for a future Phase II, sitework, drainage improvements, and rerouting of existing utilities to maintain service to an adjacent facility. The work includes removal and disposal of Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) as required abatement plans and techniBHATE Geosciences, and the removal and disposal of interisystems, plumbing systems, electrical & lighting systems, mechanical systems, and structural systems as indicated on the demolition drawings their consulting engineers.

SEALED PROPOSALS will be received by the Alabama Department of Corrections at 1115 S Court Street, Montgomery, Alabama 36104, until 2:00pm CST Tuesday, March 11th, 2025, at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read. A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to Alabama Department of Corrections in an percent of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000.00, must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Payment Bonds and evidence of insurance required in the bid documents will be required at the signing of the Contract.

(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

tion 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

CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICES

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 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 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

Looking for a home?

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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 LEG-

ISLATURE 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.

Public Notices

(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 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

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 KATHRYN B. CLARK, DECEASED CASE NO: 2025-009 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of KATHRYN B. CLARK, deceased, having been granted to PATRICIA D. CEMAN on January 16th, 2025 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

PATRICIA D. CEMAN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF KATHRYN B. CLARK, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Personal Representative: SCARLETT TRAVIS ATTORNEY AT LAW

GARRY S. MCANNALLY, LLC 50 WISTERIA PLACE MILLBROOK, ALABAMA 36054 334-285-1976 scarlett@gmacclosings.com

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 22, 29 and Feb. 5, 2025

EST/CLARK, K.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

The following vehicles will be auctioned off by J&J Towing 3345581595 on 03/05/25 @ 10:00 a.m.

2009 Toyota Venza4T3ZK11A99U005429 2017 Honda Accord1HGCR2F59HA159348 2018 Hyundai TucsonKM8J3CA44JU669134 2017 Chevy Cruze3G1BF6SM2HS590547

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 29 and Feb. 5, 2025 AV/ 09 TOYOTA

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 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 SUSAN SMITH T. ROBERTS, DECEASED CASE NO: 2025-005 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE

Letters Testamentary in the Estate of SUSAN SMITH T. ROBERTS, deceased, having been granted to JASPER BEROUJON ROBERTS, JUNIOR and FOSTER BRETT ROBERTS on the 14th day of January, 2025 by John Thornton, Judge of Probate of Elmore County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons and parties having claims against said estate are required, within the time allowed by law, to present the same to the Court or the same will be barred.

JASPER BEROUJON ROBERTS, JUNIOR and FOSTER BRETT ROBERTS CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ESTATE OF SUSAN SMITH T. ROBERTS, DECEASED

Attorney of Record for Co-Personal Representatives: 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: Jan. 22, 29 and Feb. 5, 2025 EST/ROBERTS S. PUBLIC NOTICE ADVERTISEMENT FOR PREQUALIFICATION OF CONTRACTORS AND FOR BIDS FROM BIDDERS THAT ARE PREQUALIFIED

Public Notices

from General Contractors shall be submitted via email and will be received on behalf of the Owner by Goodwyn Mills Cawood, LLC; VIA EMAIL to Kaylla.dixon@gmcnetwork. com; UNTIL 4:00 PM LOCAL TIME; ON FEBRUARY 7, 2025, for: A NEW CLASSROOM MODULAR UNIT AT TUTWILER PRISON ANNEX FOR THE ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS

WETUMPKA, ALABAMA and thereafter delivered to the Owner for consideration of approval to bid this project. Those who DID NOT Prequalify will be MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2025, but no later than the Bid date.quirements may be obtained from the Architect, by written request on the Contractor’s company letterhead. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, to waive technical errors, and/or abandon this process if, in their judgment, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted.

by the Alabama Department of Corrections c/o ADOC Engi-es at 222 Tarwater Drive, Wetumpka, Alabama; AT 2:00 PM LOCAL TIME ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2025, at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read. The Work of the project includes, but is not limited to, sitework, demolition, sanitary sewer piping, concrete, metal ramp & stairs, modular classroom building, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and all related work at Tutwiler Prison Annex; as the Drawings; coordination and supervision of the entire project; and all related work, as indicated in the Bid and Contract Documents. A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to Alabama Department of Corrections in an percent of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000, must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and statutory Labor and Material Payment Bonds, insurance in compliance with requirements,also with Proposals will be required at the signing of the Contract.

of the Architect; and digital Plan Rooms of: Dodge SCAN; Reed Construction Data; AGC Internet Plan Room in Birmingham, Alabama and Alabama Graphics Internet Plan Room in Montgomery, Alabama. Bid Documents may be obtained from the Architect by digital

Partial sets will not be available.

Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Architect or copies thereof. All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the Provision of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, and must show such evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by Architect or Owner; The bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying their current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered; Bidder must also include their current license number on the Proposal Form. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids A MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE is scheduled for all bidders will be held at the Tutwiler Prison Annex in the Administration Building on US 231 in Wetumpka, Alabama; at 10:00 AM LOCAL TIME, ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2025, for the purpose of reviewing the project and answering Bidder’s questions.

intending to submit a Proposal, and is highly recommended for all Subcontractors.

Contractor Bidders who do not attend the Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be rejected This project is being bid EXCLUDING TAXES, and requires the Contractor comply with the requirements of Act 2013-205, which was signed into law on May 9, 2013. The Contractor and the Owner will be requiredemption with the Alabama Department of Revenue which will handle administration of the shall account for the tax savings on the Proposal Form. requirements for General Contractor Bidders and separate Subcontractors and Manufacturers are indicated in the Bid and Contract Documents. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in their judgment, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted. ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS ENGINEERING DIVISION Elmore, Alabama John Q. Hamm, Commissioner GOODWYN MILLS CAWOOD, LLC MEMBERS, AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS

Public Notices

200 Montgomery, Alabama

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 22, 29 and Feb. 5, 2025 GMC _ AMGM230005-012

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 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. -

Public Notices

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 PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONStions for Developing a Bridge Investment Program Grantabama Counties No. 2025-01 The Lauderdale County Commission, as the awarding authority for a multi-county partnership with 30 other Counties in Alabama, is requestingdeveloping a Bridge Investment Program Grant Application. You are invited to provide a proposal in response to this RFQ. All proposals should follow the requirements as provided in Section IV of the RFQ. A copy of the RFQ will be available by contacting the Lauderdale County Engineer, Mr. Eric Hill, at the Lauderdale County Road Department, 1630 State Street, Florence, AL 35631 and mailing address of PO Box 1059, Florence, AL 35631. ehill@lauderdalecountyal.gov. • Phone Number: (256)7605880 • Lauderdale County Hours of Operations are 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Central Time) from Monday through Thursday Proposals will be received by the Lauderdale County Commission until 1:00 PM CT on February 27, 2025. The Lauderdale County Commission is committed to promoting diversity in contracting. Therefore, the Commission encourages businesses that would qualify as a Disadvantaged Business Entity consistent with 2 C.F.R. Section 200.321 to submit a proposal.

Wetumpka Herald: Feb. 5, 2025 PROPOSALS PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned will sell for cash, at an ONLINE public auction on Thursday,February, the 13th 2025, at 9:00 am AT STORAGETREASURES.COM. Please note: THIS AUCTION IS NOT IN PERSON. PLEASE DO NOT SHOW UP TO OUR PHYSICAL LOCATION. ALL AUCTION PARTICIPANTS MUST SIGN UP AND BID ONLINE.

Southeast Storage 8416 US-231 Wetumpka, AL 36092

3036: Minica Henderson,195 Sandy Ct, Wetumpka, Al 36092

Contents: couch, tv stand, headboard, treadmill, bed frame, books

3125: Donna Waters: 8005 Holtville Rd, Wetumpka, Al 36092

Contents: mattress, 3 totes

2111: Kim Posey, 9175 Georgia Rd. Wetumpka, Al 36092 Contents: chairs, washer, dryer, mattress, tv, table, outdoor furniture

2109: Charles Taylor, 302 South Opothelehola St, Wetumpka, Al 36092 Contents: dresser, couch, boxes, bags, clothes, tool box, keyboard.

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

Wetumpka Herald: Jan. 29 and Feb. 5, 2025 STORAGE AUCTION

JU-2015-229.04

Elmore County’s seniors leave lasting legacy

By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter

It may not have ended the way the Elmore County boys basketball team wanted it to end, but there are still plenty of reasons for the team to hold its head high.

After a 2023-24 season where the Panthers finished the season with only five wins to their name they turned it around, tripling their win total this season. In 2024-25, the Panthers finished the year with a 15-11 record where they fell in overtime to Beauregard 41-40 in the Class 5A Area 7 tournament.

The game was a mixture of highs and lows. Elmore County led for a majority of the night but could not combat the second half surge from Beauregard.

Jaden Eason led the charge with

a team-high 14 points with Seth McGhee finishing right behind him with 10 points, three rebounds and one steal. Gage Davis finished with a team-high 11 rebounds, three assists and three steals. Then Drew Knighton came away with five points, five rebounds and three assists on the night.

“I just didn’t have them ready; it’s on me,” Elmore County coach Nathan Taylor said. “They’ve worked hard all year, and I just failed them when it mattered the most.”

For most of the season, it was the seniors who took a bulk of the work, but their impact goes much further than just how they were able to fill the stat sheet — it was the culture they built along the way.

“This group of seniors brought the excitement back to Elmore County basketball,” Taylor said. “We ended

Fuller named to South All-Star team

By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter

For the entirety of the Class of 2026, only 30 volleyball players are chosen to participate in the 29th annual AHSAA NorthSouth All-Star Roster — Elmore County’s Isabella Fuller is one of them.

Fuller just completed her junior year with the Panthers where she finished second on the team in kills with 149 just behind Ally Orr. She also ranked first on the team in aces with 65 and first in digs with 438. Now, Fuller is being recognized as one of the best junior volleyball players in the entire state.

She will join 14 other girls to represent the South team coached by Auburn’s Brian Wheatley, UMSWright’s Wing Brett and Carver’s Virginia Franklin.

Fuller will not only be coached by some of the best in Alabama, but will get to play alongside other talented players.

“She’ll get the opportunity to play with some of the best kids in the state,” ECHS coach Kim Moncrief said. “I know there’s two girls from Bayside Academy that will be there and then there’s some others that will be there from some really good programs. I just know being at that caliber, she’ll have the opportunity to work with some really good kids.”

Of course to be recognized as one of the top players in the state in one thing, but Fuller is the first Elmore County volleyball player to participate in the All-Star week.

“In the past, we have nominated a few people and so we had some really good candidates,” Moncrief said. “So of course, when we nominated Isabella,

we were hopeful that she would get picked, because just like the other candidates she was worthy. But I’m super excited that she’s our first one to get to go and participate.”

Moncrief echoed how prestigious of an opportunity this is for Fuller to participate in. She knows that not only will this make her a better player but also shines a light on the impact it’ll have on Elmore County.

“We are so excited about this, we’ve been trying to get some girls in in the past, and it’s so hard because there’s only 15 girls from the south that’s picked, and there’s 15 girls from the north that’s picked, so only 30 girls from the whole state of this junior class,” Moncrief said. “And so for her to be one of those, to have this opportunity, it really helps our program get the recognition.”

The All-Star week won’t begin until July in Montgomery, but Moncrief is adamant this is the perfect opportunity for Fuller to grow as a player.

“Isabella is just a great athlete, and the fact that she’s always seeking to learn things on her own, she’s going to get out there, I know, and look at the other girls and take in everything that she can from them,” Moncrief said.

“As well as the coaches that are going to be there, they’ve got two great coaches that are going to be coaching it this year as well, and I know that she’s got a great attitude, and works hard at everything that she does, and works hard on in the off-season as well. I just think she’s just going to take every opportunity she can to improve her game.”

week.

with 15 wins from five last year. They definitely deserved a better ending than what they got, but definitely thankful for them.”

It was the family atmosphere that made dividends for the Panthers this year, even with all the hardship they faced together it was what the actions off the court that made a huge difference.

“We preach family,” Taylor said. “We’re a close-knit group, and we work hard, and so hopefully the underclassmen just keep building on what we’re doing.”

Elmore County will be in good hands going forward with the season laying the groundwork for what it takes to be a successful basketball team. Key players like Gage Davis and Seth McGhee will be back next year and will be huge contributors to continuing to improve.

Hicks’ game-winner sends Panthers to area championship

By SAMUEL HIGGS Sports Reporter

It came down to the last second — literally. The Elmore County girls basketball team escaped with a 31-30 victory over Beauregard due in large part to an Addison Hicks game-winner at the buzzer. However, it was not even supposed to be Hicks who got the ball, according to coach Kyle Caldwell.

“On the last play, we had it drawn up for Lalah (Culpepper),” Caldwell said. “Had a triple screen for her, I thought we were about to inbound it to her because she was open. But if that the first option wasn't there, then (with) the triple screen, they were cutting through the basket because we knew they were in man (defense), and they were overplaying everything, and so (Addison) just backdoored (the defender) and got an angle, and

was able to put it up.”

It was a relatively low-scoring affair for both sides, but that is all according to plan for the Panthers. It was the presence under the rim that kept them in the lead for a majority of the night and ultimately kept the game from swinging in the Hornets favor.

“Just being able to box out, get the rebound necessary when we need to,” Caldwell said. “Get those stops when we needed to, as well, just the constant communication that we emphasize here in practice.”

Another aspect of Elmore County’s game that shines was at the free-throw line. Beaurgard had the making of a comeback to snatch the victory away, but it was Culpepper's performance in the fourth quarter that proved beneficial. She ended the night with nine points, but knocked down four of six free throw attempts in crunch time. Caldwell attributed the success from

the line by how they practice for situations like Elmore County faced on Monday.

“We spend the last 12-13 minutes on free throws, we try to get them tired because (in the) fourth quarters, they're a little bit more important,” Caldwell said. “But try to get them tired, so they get that game conditioning.”

Next up for the Panthers is the Class 5A Area 7 championship against the No. 1 seed Valley on Wednesday. Caldwell wants to make sure there is an extra emphasis on limiting turnovers on the offensive side while still showcasing their defensive capabilities.

“Just taking care of the basketball and executing, if things break down, don't panic,” Caldwell said. “Just keep playing the game of basketball. Good things happen to the people who play the game the right way. So if we continue to keep playing the right way, good things will happen.”