OPINION: WE’D LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU, PAGE 4.
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TUESDAY
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892
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SPORTS, PAGE 12 Horseshoe Bend kicks off spring practices
April 25, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 81 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢
Suspect arrested for attempted murder Suspect also awaiting trial for child abuse case in Tallapoosa County, Duerr seeking bond revocation By MITCH SNEED Editor
An Alexander City man who was awaiting trial for willful abuse of a child in Tallapoosa County is now facing bond revocation after he was arrested in Calhoun County for he alleged involvement in an incident where a woman was beaten, hung and left to die. Matthew Aaron Hammonds, 36, of Alexander City was due in court today for a status hearing in a case where Hammonds is accused of beating a child under the age of 18, where the victim suffered injuries. But Hammonds was arrested Thursday in Calhoun County along with Anthony Scott Coffee, 36, and David Brian Pearman, 57. All three have been charged with
attempted murder and kidnapping and are being held in the Calhoun County Jail on $300,000 bond each. The three could face additional charges. Calhoun County Sheriff Matthew Wade said that a motorist reported finding a woman who was badly beaten with an electric cord that had been made into a noose around her neck beneath a bridge over Choccolocco Creek along Mellon Bridge Road in unincorporated Calhoun County. Investigators believe the beating happened at a Golden Springs trailer, with each man taking turns beating the woman over several hours. The woman was beaten because the men apparently suspected her of stealing drugs, Wade said. She was then driven to the site in a borrowed vehicle and left, officials said in published reports.
A meth lab was found at the trailer where officials believe the attack took place. In the case here in Tallapoosa County, Hammond was scheduled to have a mental evaluation to consider his competency as part of a possible insanity defense. Instead of a status hearing District Attorney Jeremy Duerr said he will likely seek bond revocation due to Hammonds Hammonds latest arrest. Hammonds has been free on a $27,000 bond since his arrest in the child abuse case. “We will inform the judge of the latest developments and will move to have his bond revoked,” Duerr said.
Lake Martin Innovation Center to hold grand opening
Illegal alien charged with sex abuse Williams to be sentenced today in abuse case
STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
By MITCH SNEED Editor
A 29-year-old illegal alien who has been living in Alexander City is in the Tallapoosa County Jail after he was arrested by Alexander City Police for sexual abuse of a child. Officials confirmed that Maximino DeJesus Hernandez, 29, was arrested last Tuesday, April 18 and charged Hernandez with sexual abuse of a child under the age on 12 years old. Bond has been set at $300,000. Hernandez, who is also known as Elias Jesus Botello, remained in custody as of late Monday afternoon. “The charges stem from allegations that he had inappropriate sexual contact with a young girl who lived in the same apartment complex,” said Alexander City Police Department Deputy Chief James Easterwood. “The case is still under investigation, but that’s about all we can release at this time.” According to the police report, Hernandez is in the country illegally. See ABUSE • Page 11
hosted its grand opening, featuring an open crawfish boil and a nearly-full menu, which the locals were happily eating up. “This is the first (crawfish boil) I’ve ever been to, but I just wanted to check it out and see what it was like,” Shay Cooper said. “It was great. Spicy but good.”
The Lake Martin Innovation Center will host a grand opening and ribbon cutting today from 4-6 p.m. The event is open to the public and will include catered food, drinks, live music and tours of the facility. Conveniently located off U.S. Highway 280 in Alexander City, the 17,000 square foot facility will function as a business incubator, complete with office suites, high-speed fiber internet and co-working space targeted to professionals that work from home, travel through the area to do business or reside full-time or part-time on Lake Martin. The project is a partnership between the building’s owner, USAmeriBank, and the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, which will have office space inside the Innovation Center and oversee operations. In addition to offices for the Chamber of Commerce, the facility features individual office suites for up
See BISTRO • Page 3
See INNOVATION • Page 3
Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook
Wade Woodard, right, serves crawfish and vegetables to Michelle West during Saturday’s grand opening of the French Quarter Bistro in the Broad Street Plaza. The bistro officially opens May 1.
TOUCH OF SPICE French Quarter Bistro hosts grand opening By LIZI ARBOGAST Staff Writer
If you were driving through downtown on Saturday afternoon, you probably noticed a crawfish boil in the parking lot of the Broad Street Plaza. That’s because the French Quarter Bistro
River Bank and Trust opens in new facility
BRHS music students present spring concert series this week
By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
The Benjamin Russell High School music department will present their spring concert series across two separate evenings this week. The freshman and concert bands will take the stage on Tuesday evening, while the symphonic band and the percussion ensemble will perform Thursday evening. “The three concert ensembles will present standard concert band fare: marches and fanfares, along with other types of music to present a very diverse array. The percussion See CONCERT • Page 3
Submitted / The Outlook
Peggy Smith was the first customer in the lobby of the new building and was given a gift card by Jessica Locke.
Today’s
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River Bank and Trust is finally in its new building after operating a full service bank on Highway 280 at Elkahatchee Road for the last year – and yes there were homemade cookies in the bank’s ‘living room.’ A smiling Randy Dawkins was proud of the new facility being in use despite a few last minute odds and ends being taken care of. “It is like moving into a
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house,” Dawkins said. “It never seems to be done. They are putting up blinds today. We still have some art to put up. There is a fancy ‘R’ going up on the feature wall there.” Dawkins was even showing off new technology in the building. “We have smart windows,” Dawkins said. “By just flipping a switch the windows turn opaque to give privacy in the offices.” And there is more work to be done outside. “The trailer will be moved See BANK • Page 3
Locally Owned for Over 45 Years
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Page 2
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New house responsibilities put wife down in the dumps
Wednesday
83 61 Low
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Staff
Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Amy Passaretti Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com
Alethia Russell Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 alethia.russell@alexcityoutlook.com Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Donna Jones Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 donna.jones@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Advertising Sales, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Advertising Sales, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) Kenneth Boone The Outlook is published five times Photography and a week, Tuesday through Saturday a commercial web mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, printing press. Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.
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Information
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
The Outlook
© 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
DEAR ABBY: My husband decided to buy a house. I never wanted one and now I’m depressed. I am thankful that my husband provides for the family and puts a roof over our heads, but now that we are in our house, my days are spent doing chores, yard work, and cleaning, cleaning and cleaning. This is why I never wanted the responsibility of a house. I don’t have time for my family because I’m so busy maintaining this house I never wanted. I have been distant from my husband because I secretly despise him for putting me in this position when he knew it wasn’t what I wanted. Am I being selfish? -- DON’T WANT THE RESPONSIBILITY DEAR DON’T: Selfish? No. Passive-aggressive, yes. The problem with passive aggression is that the problem never gets resolved. If you feel
DEAR ABBY Advice
you have too much on your shoulders, tell your husband how you are feeling so he can either help you with the chores, or hire someone to do the yard work and some of the cleaning. DEAR ABBY: I love helping others, but I’m ready to quit every volunteer job I have. I’m tired of people who are not volunteers telling me I am doing my job wrong. When you volunteer, you are given training on how to do your job. You drive to the site using your own gas, spend your time helping others, and a lot of times you spend your
own money to obtain the supplies you need to do the job. I could be spending my time -and resources -- doing things like shopping or getting my nails done. Volunteers don’t want to do all of that only to hear how we’re not doing the job right, suggestions on how to do it better or complaints that we didn’t do enough. I am so sick of people who delight in telling you that you’re not doing enough. I can’t save the world, but I can help one person each day. Thanks for letting me get this off my chest. -SOUNDING OFF IN TEXAS DEAR SOUNDING OFF: You’re welcome. That’s what I’m here for. I hope writing this has made you feel better. Now get back to work, because what you do is IMPORTANT. DEAR ABBY: I am tat-
tooed. I started getting inked when I was 22. I am now 31. Recently, I decided to get an extensive design on my left arm. It will take four sessions to complete. The first session is scheduled on a Tuesday, not normally my day off. I can use PTO hours to cover it, but what do I say when -- and if -- management notices my ink, puts two and two together, and realizes I took time off for this? -- INKED IN INDIANA DEAR INKED: If that happens, you should tell the truth -- that you took PTO for a personal errand. That’s what personal/paid time off is for. Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby. com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
Obituaries Mr. Claytis Lewell “Luke” Caldwell 1952 - 2017
Mrs. Lydia Thomas Caldwell 1954 - 2017
Funeral Service for Mr. Claytis Lewell “Luke” Caldwell, 64, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Monday, April 24, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Rev. Ron Estes will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Sunday, April 23, 2017 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. Mr. Caldwell passed away on Friday, April 21, 2017 at residence. He was born on December 9, 1952 in Chambers County to J.B. Caldwell and Etta Sue Montgomery Smith. Luke was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening. He was a wonderful mechanic and was always the “go to” person to fix something. He also enjoyed keeping a check on others and was the community watchman. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Dale Caldwell of Alexander City; daughter, Shannon Holley (Neil) of Hackneyville; son, Luke Dwayne Caldwell of Alexander City; grandchildren, Destiny Caldwell, Dawson Nolen and Cooper Nolen; brother, Chris Caldwell (Lydia) of New Site; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Johnny Caldwell and Mickey Caldwell. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be given to the charity of one’s choice. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www. radneyfuneralhome.com.
Funeral Service for Mrs. Lydia Thomas Caldwell, 62, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Wednesday, April 26, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Bro. Jimmy Brand will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, April 25, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. Mrs. Caldwell passed away on Sunday, April 23, 2017 at her residence. She was born on August 30, 1954 in Alexander City, Alabama to Aldrich O. Thomas and Flora Jones Thomas. She was a member of Mt. Gilead Church. Mrs. Lydia loved her family very much and would do anything for anyone. She also enjoyed gardening and shopping. She is survived by her husband of 34 years, Christopher Alan Caldwell of Alexander City; daughters, Christen Ann Caldwell of Dadeville and Nikki Caldwell Hooks of Alexander City; grandchildren, Maliyia N. Caldwell, Allyssa B. Hooks, Thomas J. Hooks and Jayceon D. Baker; brother, Hayward Ayers (Sybil) of Alexander City; and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Donna Kay Bailey and her husband, Michael. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be given to the Alabama Kidney Foundation, PO Box 12505, Birmingham, AL 35202. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www. radneyfuneralhome.com.
Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Public Meetings n Alexander City Board of Education meets on the third Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the board office at 375 Lee St. or local school at 5 p.m.
month at 6:30 p.m. at the Daviston Fire Department. n Goldville Town Council meets the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the town hall.
n Alexander City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in the courtroom at the old city hall at 5:30 p.m.
n Goodwater City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held at the Caldwell Center at 6:30 p.m.
n Camp Hill Town Council meets the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 6 p.m.
n Jackson’s Gap Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 6:30 p.m.
n Community Action Agency of Chambers, Tallapoosa, Coosa will holds its regular board of directors meetings every other month at the Central Office in Dadeville.
n Kellyton Town Council meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the community center in Kellyton.
n Coosa County Board of Education holds called meetings at least once a month. n Coosa County Commission meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the Coosa County Courthouse in Rockford at 9:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday and at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday. n Coosa County Industrial Development Board will hold its regularly scheduled meeting the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Board Room in the courthouse in Rockford. All meetings are open to the public. n Dadeville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. with a pre-meeting at 5:30 p.m. in city hall. n Daviston City Council meets the third Monday of every
n New Site City Council meets the first and third Monday of the month at 5 p.m. in the Conference Room in the Town Hall. n Ray Water Authority meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Ray Water Authority Office. All customers are invited to attend. n Rockford Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 7 p.m. n Tallapoosa County Board of Education meets on the second Monday of each month. Meetings are held in the new central office at 679 East Columbus Street, Dadeville, AL 36853. n Tallapoosa County Commission meets the second Monday of the month at 9 a.m. in the courthouse in Dadeville, with a pre-meeting also open to the public 30 minutes before each regular session. n Tallapoosa County 911 Board will meet on the second Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m. in the 911 Administrative office at 240 West Columbus Street, Dadeville. Call 825-8490 for more information.
DID YOU KNOW?
n Walnut Hill Water Authority meets the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited. Call 825-9841 to inquire about the agenda.
According to a 2013 Pulse Survey, Tallapoosa Publishers reaches at least 86% of all Tallapoosa County.
Let Us Help Market Your Message! 256.234.4281
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135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL
825-9559
No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
The Outlook
Concerts
continued from page 1
musicians will perform a diverse selection of music as well, including concert music written specifically for percussion ensembles,” said BRHS Director of Bands Dale Bloodworth. Unlike some of their previous concerts, “None of these performances are thematic.” Each band is grouped according to their level of experience, Bloodworth explained. The freshman band is composed of 40 ninth-graders, while the concert band is made up of 44 students in grades 10-12 and the symphonic band comprises 53 students almost entirely in their junior or senior year, with the exception of one sophomore. The percussion ensemble is a smaller group of musicians, totaling 13 students, but their members range from freshmen to seniors. Each group of musicians has their own needs and level of expertise, but all four have a great deal of talent with their instruments.
The freshman, concert, and symphonic bands, while all being at different levels of experience, are similarly comprised, with each made up of a full complement of brass, woodwind and percussion instruments. Thursday’s concert will be made even more special because a guest conductor will be leading the symphonic band during part of their performance. “Mr. Robert Lamborne, who has been a great friend of our music, will be a guest conductor. He is retiring, and Thursday will be his last program,” Bloodworth said. The concerts on Tuesday and Thursday night will be held at 7 p.m. in the BRHS auditorium and are scheduled to last around an hour each. These performances are free of charge and open to the public.
Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook
Jordan, left, and Jerimy Woodard talk to customers about their crawfish preparations during the grand opening of the French Quarter Bistro on Saturday afternoon.
Bistro The restaurant officially opens May 1, and hours will be Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Owners Jeff Lucas and Shirley Woodard Lucas decided to open the bistro after noticing a need for the Cajun cuisine in Alex City. “I grew up in Slidell, Louisiania, about 30 minutes from New Orleans, and I grew up with all the Cajun food,” Woodard Lucas said “After I moved up here later on in life, you couldn’t find a po’ boy anywhere because every-
Bank
continued from page 1
one uses hoagie bread.” All that’ll change with the new bistro. In addition to serving crawfish and vegetables, a variety of traditional po’ boys using Leidenheimer bread were offered on Saturday’s menu, as well as hot dogs, nachos, gumbo and red beans and rice. Once the restaurant officially opens, Woodard Lucas said fried seafood will also be served, including softshell crab, crawfish pie and shrimp. “It is wonderful, I’m surprised,” Tom Rich said. “They’re really
from south Louisiana, and they’re capable. I’ll eat the heck out of it. I just hope the town will accept them. They know what they’re doing, and it’s delish.” The couple is new to the restaurant business. Woodard Lucas said, “I’ve only eaten in restaurants.” So everything from building the business to putting together the menu to marketing has been a new experience, but there’s one thing that isn’t so new. “I’ve cooked a lot of this food, but on a lot
smaller scale,” she said. One thing Woodard Lucas is certain of is how she hopes the restaurant will be a relaxing place for locals to go to enjoy a good lunch. “Just what the sign says: Good food, good friends, good times,” Woodard Lucas said. “We want a light-hearted atmosphere with great food, so people can come in at lunch time after they’ve been working and forget about it all. They’ll get rejuvenated with good food and be able to finish out the day.”
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Innovation to 12 businesses, a 1,200 square foot co-working area, multiple conference rooms and meeting spaces with state-of-the-art audio/ visual technology and fiber internet. “Even though we’ve only been operational for two months, we’ve already witnessed some positive economic impact to our community. We have four full-time tenants, doubledigit membership in the co-working space and as a result, jobs have been created,” said President and CEO of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Ed Collari. “This wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of USAmeriBank and their gifting of this facility for the very important goal of economic development and innovation in our community. Because of this project becoming a reality, we have a home in the Lake Martin area for cultivating entrepreneurs, growing small businesses as well as serving as a business center for traveling professionals along the Highway 280 corridor.” New or growing businesses will be able to lease space at a range of sizes, layouts and prices with the monthly rent including all utilities except for phone service, which is optional. The offices will start at $300 per month for a single room and top out at $1,000 per month for multi-room suites with varying sizes and prices inbetween. Tenants will have access to spacious conference rooms, kitchen and break room, receptionist, personal phone lines and
continued from page 1
copy room. Additionally, the Chamber will host a variety of development workshops for entrepreneurs and existing businesses to help increase their productivity. Membership for the co-working area is set at $50 per month. The 1,200 square foot co-working space features secure wireless fiber internet, multiple individual and group work spaces, a separate office for private meetings and workroom with copier, printer and fax machine. Members will also have access to multiple conference rooms, indoor and outdoor break areas and kitchen with free coffee. The facility will be available to all tenants and members on a 24/7 basis. “There are a variety of different utilizations for this facility,” said Collari. “If you work from home, travel through our community frequently, desire full or part-time office space or just need a co-working space with excellent resources, the Lake Martin Innovation Center is worth a visit. This facility incorporates state-of-the-art technology to assist varying levels of businesses and individuals achieve their professional goals.” Four full-time tenants have already signed leases and begun operations in their startup suites. Individuals or businesses interested in office space, co-working space or taking a tour should contact the Innovation Center at (256) 414-6100 or ed.collari@alexandercitychamber.com.
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continued from page 1
by the first part of May,” Dawkins said. “And more parking will be added.” Dawkins explained the bank employees worked over the weekend to make the transition. “With the help of the Alexander City Police Department, we moved all of the valuables Friday night,” Dawkins said. “We stayed to about 11:30 p.m. and then work a few hours both Saturday and Sunday.” Monday the bank welcomed its first customers. Peggy Smith was greeted with a gift card for being the first customer in the lobby while William Watts was the first customer through the drive through. Dawkins said they have planned a June 8 ribbon cutting with the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce.
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EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
Outlook The
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Page 4
Our
Opinion
Do you have I something to say? We want hear from you
A
re you looking for a way to voice your opinion on the current events? Are you tired of only being able to air you opinion with friends? Why not try the public? The Outlook is looking for well thought out letters of opinion. It does not matter if anyone agrees with you. Get involved and make your opinion on issues known. We will even let you do that through the newspaper. What do you think about the way our city government is being run? How about the turnout of community members to any local events? Or how about new Alabama Governor Kay Ivey an how she’s doing as governor? Do you have any praise or concerns regarding our country’s leadership or current administration? Do you have thoughts on how Tallapoosa County can attract more new businesses and industry that will provide jobs for our residents? Have you been on the receiving end of a good deed and would like to give credit where credit is due? Do you have a bone to pick with any of the stories in this newspaper? If you have something to say about any of these questions, then the answer is a letter to the editor or a guest column. This newspaper’s editorial page is an open forum for our community and we encourage you to write us and make your opinion known. It’s free. If you need help writing, our editors will be happy to help you craft a letter. Our rules are simple: no cussin’, no libel, no slander. Basically, if you’d say it around the dinner table with your grandmother, it’s probably acceptable as a letter to the editor. So let’s get the conversation started. What’s on your mind? Write us at editor@ alexcityoutlook.com or Editor, The Alexander City Outlook, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 25011.
Know Your
Officials Communication with elected officials is the key to good government. To let your most local representatives know how you feel about state or local matters, contact any of the following.
Governor Kay Ivey represents the state of Alabama and its 67 counties. She was sworn in to office on April 10, 2017 and can be reached at 334242-7100. Her office is located at the State Capitol at 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama.
Kay Ivey
Steve Marshall was appointed Alabama’s 50th Attorney General. He was appointed in 2017 and serves as the State’s chief law enforcement officer. He can be reached at 334-242-7300, and his office is located at 501 Washington Avenue, Montgomery.
Steve Marshall
Mark Tuggle (R) represents the 81st District covering Coosa, Chilton and Tallapoosa counties. He can be Mark Tuggle reached by phone at 256392-2006 or by email at tughd81@gmail.com. His office is located at 110 Calhoun Street, Suite 108, Alexander City. Tom Whatley represents the 27th District covering Lee, Russell and Tallapoosa County. He was elected Tom Whatley to the Alabama Senate on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334-242t7865. His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn.
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
Feeling a well-earned hurt
’m sore this morning. I was sore last night, too. There’s a good chance I’ll still be sore tomorrow. My knees hurt. My elbows hurt. My neck hurts. My hips hurt. My chest hurts. Basically, I’m sore, and I hurt, but it’s a good hurt—one of those well-earned hurts. Recently, I spent a couple of days under an old house a house jacking up the joists due to sagging floors. I had no idea how to do it, so I turned to Google. It didn’t look very difficult, but I wasn’t about to crawl under there on my own. I’m all about trial and error and learning the hard way but not when it comes to picking up a house, so I called my friend Stephen. He’s a jack of all trades; I’m a master of none. When we opened the door to the crawl space, a colony of bats, a mischief of rats, and Jimmy Hoffa almost knocked us down in their effort to escape. Not really. In reality, due to the porch, which wraps half-way around the house, much of the crawl space was well-lit. It was, however, very dirty. Think “Dirty Jobs with Mike Rowe” kind of dirty. There was lot of dirt and spider webs and who knows what else, but it didn’t deter us. We each had a job to do, and my job was to lie there in the dirty dirt and hold the flashlight. It was a tough job, but someone had to do it. I was that someone. I
JODY FULLER Columnist
was just soaking it all in: the knowledge and the dirt. The other part of my job was to crawl back out to retrieve whatever needed retrieving, whether it was cinder blocks, wood, or wedges. Ruby, my lab, has taught me well. I did a lot of crawling. In the army, we call it lowcrawling. I’d thought my lowcrawling days were over. I crawled low many a day during my early days in the army. On one of the courses we did over and over, we had to crawl under barbed wire. It sounds simple enough, but when you factor in all the gear we wore, it made it more challenging because we were bound to get stuck on one of the barbs. On top of that, some of the sergeants were armed with garden hose nozzles and would make it a muddy mess. One of my Air Force friends once told me how they were supposed to low-crawl in basic training; however, it rained, so they didn’t have to. I knew I should have joined the Air Force, but I digress. I watched Stephen and asked him a lot of questions on day one, because on day
two, he couldn’t be there, so it was all on me. I was confident in my abilities and didn’t fret one iota. Day two went off without a hitch, which had me all jacked up. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of accomplishment. In doing so, I’ve learned that most things are fairly easy to do. We just need the right tools and for someone to show us how to do it. I got so dirty on day two that Mike Rowe himself might have turned up his nose to me. I looked like I’d slid into home plate all the way from first base. I thought about taking my shirt off for the drive home, but since I wasn’t wearing a gold chain, I left the shirt on. When I got home, I jumped in the shower. I had dirt in places I didn’t even know existed. I could’ve planted potatoes in my tub after that cleansing. I had a few cuts and scrapes and bumps and bruises. I was tired and was already sore from day one, but boy did I feel good! It was one of those good hurts—definitely wellearned. Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier with three tours of duty in Iraq. He is also a lifetime stutterer. He can be reached at jody@jodyfuller.com. For more information, please visit www.jodyfuller.com.
Today’s
Quote
“Ten people who speak make more noise than ten thousand who are silent.” – Napoleon Bonaparte
Today’s
Scripture
“He gives the childless woman a family, making her a happy mother. Praise the Lord.” – Psalm 113:9
alexcityoutlook.com
Daily Poll Weekend Question: Have you talked with your kids about how to handle bullies?
Yes: 26 No: 7
Tuesday Question: Do you think bond is granted to easily to suspects of crimes?
To participate in this daily poll, log on each day to www. alexcityoutlook.com and vote. Find out the vote totals in the next edition of The Outlook and see if your vote swayed the results.
Our
Mission
The Outlook strives to report the news honestly, fairly and with integrity, to take a leadership role and act as a positive influence in our community, to promote business, to provide for the welfare of our employees, to strive for excellence in everything we do and above all, to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves.
Reader: Conceal carry will make us safer
D
elight descended upon me recently when I read Mr. Mitch Sneed’s report that the Alabama State Senate had passed Senator Gerald Allen’s “constitutional carry” legislation, but also a little disheartened that there were two voices opposed to the bill included in the report, but none supporting it. Absent the Second Amendment arguments for the bill there are many other reasons to support it. When the price of apples rises relative to the price of oranges, people buy fewer apples and more oranges. When obstacles are placed in front of someone it forces them make determinations about their behavior. When the government makes doing something more complicated people are less likely to do it, even if it benefits them. Barriers to entry reduce entry. If I were Sir Thomas More and I was creating some imaginary Utopia I would have to think more conceptually about the role firearms should play in that society. Alas, we are forced to create policy in the real world and the society that we have. Responding to the realities that are present. And the reality in America is that gun culture is American culture. They are one and the same and indivisible. We first must examine a few questions, to which there is some data variance and then determine what the appropriate polices should be. There isn’t space here for the full discussion, but I hope to highlight a few points that illustrate why Senator Allen’s bill is needed and why, contrary to the statements made by my good friend Sheriff Jimmy Abbett and Chief Jay Turner, constitutional carry in Alabama will make us more
TALMADE EAST Guest Columnist
safe. • University of Buffalo professor Lawrence Southwick found that the probability of serious injury from an attack is 2.5 times greater for women offering no resistance than for women resisting with a gun. Men also fare better with guns, but the benefits are substantially smaller. • Professor John Lott found that crime has generally been falling, but states experiencing the greatest reductions in crime are also the ones with the fastest growing percentages of gun ownership and that allowing citizens to carry concealed handguns reduces violent crimes, and the reductions coincide very closely with the number of concealed-handgun permits issued. • Dr. David Mustard of the University of Georgia found that states that enact concealed carry laws are less likely to have a felonious police death and more likely to have lower rates of felonious police deaths after the law is passed. To summarize: There is a clear correlation in the reduction of injurious confrontations if the person targeted defends themselves with a firearm, and much more so if that person is a female. States that are less restrictive with gun ownership and allow for the concealed carry of firearms have seen accelerated reductions in violent crime. Finally, there is no correlation between felonious police deaths and increased carry, and in fact it is more likely to make
the environment for our police officers more safe. Some would argue that we could see these same benefits with the current system, if people would just go get permits. If you want to see the corollary violent crime reductions, you must increase the number of people that carry concealed. “Open carry” will not get it done, because the criminals just avoid the person with the firearm and accost someone else. That brings us back to the apples. The benefits of increased concealed carry clearly outweigh the costs. If the government removes the artificial barrier to entry that it has created more people will carry concealed. If more people carry concealed, we will all be safer. I know for a fact that Sheriff Abbett has the public’s safety in mind. I can scantily remember a time before he was sheriff, and anyway my Mama would whip me, scold me about us being close enough to kinfolks to count, and not feed me homemade biscuits for a month if I said something to the contrary. That price ain’t worth paying. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that the answer to this problem, as usual, is freedom. Allow people the freedom to defend themselves and they will. I hope the Alabama House of Representatives and Governor Kay Ivey decide to allow them to do so as well. Talmadge East is a private businessman from Daviston, AL and consults on digital media and politics in multiple states. He holds a degree in Political Science from Troy University, is a former employee of the National Rifle Association, and can be contacted at talmadgeeast@gmail.com.
How to
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The subscription rate is $136.00 per year in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and $177.99 outside the area. Periodicals paid at Alexander City, AL. Newspapers are available at 100 news racks in our area at 75 cents for The Outlook and 50 cents for The Record. We would love to deliver a paper to your door. Call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281, Ext. 204 or e-mail david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook. com.
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Tuesday, April 25, 2017
The Outlook
CommunityCalendar SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
Today is
April 25, 2017
Today’s Anniversaries
Tifton and Glenda Walls and Dr. Albert and Teresa Pike are celebrating their anniversaries.
Page 5
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Submit calendar items:
Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/.
Today’s Birthdays
Connie Peppers, Doyle “Pete” Mask, Tyler Brewster and Shirley Burton are celebrating their birthdays.
The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow
The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for Weekend Shifts in Direct Care.
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700
Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Brinda Bell (334) 252-0025, Ext. 101 Email: bbell@learning-tree.org
haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
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GIFTS & MORE Monogramming onogramming Boutique outique Clothing Clothing Jewelry ewelry Bathing athing SSuits uits & More More 10147 County Road 34 Dadeville, AL
256.234.3481
256-496-4017
KarenChannell.com
Submitted / The Outlook
Members of the Lake Martin Area United Way staff, Janice Glaze, Sharon Fuller, Courtney Layfield and Tina Parker paid a visit to area nursing homes recently including Mr. Hugh Holley to give them some gifts.
Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy 2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
Come Visit Us! Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing
Now - April 30
COMMUNITY THEATRE: The Sylacauga Community Playhouse will present “The Miracle Worker” April 21 at 6:30 p.m., April 22 at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., April 23 at 2 p.m., April 28 at 6:30 p.m. April 29 at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. and April 30 at 2. p.m. at the B.B. Comer High School Auditorium. Cost is $15 in advance and $18 at the door. For more information call 256-3693003.
April 26-30
FAIR: The Alexander City Kiwanis Club is hosting a fair at the Sportplex April 26-30.
April 27-29, May 4-7, May 11-13
OF THE RED HOT LOVERS: The FANS HEAR TheLAST Wetumpka Depot Players are ‘Last of the Red Hot Lovers” You! presenting April 27-29,May 4-7 and May 11-13. All shows start at 7:30 p.m. The May 7 show will start at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance at wetumpkadepot.com or email at kmeanor@wtumpkadepot.com and $15 at the door.
Small Space Advertising Works!
April 29
5K RUN: The 5K Spring Sprint benefitting the Central Alabama Community College Ambassador Scholarship Program and Community Service activities will be April 29 at call the 7:45 a.m at Horseshoe Bend National Advertising Dept. Military Park with registration at 7:15 a.m. The registration deadline is April 256.234.4281 14 and registration fee is $25. For more information contact CACC at 256-215-4415 or email hhamby@ Many a small thing cacc.edu. has been made PASTOR ANNIVERSARY: The 50th anniversary for Pastor Ida Ruth Meadows will be Saturday, April 29 at 2 p.m. at the Dadeville Recreation Center. The speaker will be Apostle Alton Burris from Fitzgerald, Georgia. MULE DAY: The Weogufka Center is hosting its annual Mule Day Saturday, April 29 starting at 6:30 ...with the a.m. A sausage biscuit breakfast is right kind of available from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. advertising. Events and activities include plowing demonstrations, buggy rides, trail rides, antique car and truck show, The Train Man Mr. Robert Pearson, vendors, the history room, concessions, camper •Alexander City Outlook sites, and more. •Dadeville Record Vendor booths are available for $20 •Wetumpka Herald •Eclectic Observer each. •Tallassee Tribune For more information call Melvin Palmer at 256-249-8886 or Bobby 256.234.4281 Ezekiel at 256-626-2556 or visit www. weogufkacenter.org or the Facebook page Wegufka Center. DRUG TAKE BACK: There will be a drug take back event at Walgreens of Alexander City Saturday, April 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Prescription and over the counter drugs are eligible. Law enforcement officials will be on hand to accept medications. CHARITY WALK: The Central Alabama Club Sarcoidosis Foundation one mile walk will be Saturday, April 29 at 9 a.m. at the Cooper Community Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892 Center Park with games, music and food. Wear you church or favorite t-shirt. By e-mailing your event to charity YARD SALE: The Radney calendar@alexcityoutlook.com Elementary School Drama Club is hosting a yard sale fundraiser or call 256-234-4281. Saturday, April 29 from 9 a.m. to noon _____ the Radney Cafeteria with proceeds Send your news items to in going to the Radney Drama Club.
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How to add a calendar item: Participate in your
editor@alexcityoutlook.com April 30
SINGSPIRATION: The Pentecostals of Dadeville are hosting Singspiration Sunday, April 30 at 10 a.m. The church is located at 2392 Eagle Circle in Jacksons Gap. It is part of the church’s 5th Sunday Celebrations with gospel singing, teaching, preaching, fellowship and food.
May 3
MONTHLY LUNCHEON: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have their Monthly Luncheon on Wednesday May 3 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Please bring a covered dish and a small donation.
May 4
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER: The Hackneyville Community will sponsor its Second Annual National Day of Prayer Thursday, May 4 at 10 a.m. at the Hackneyville Community Center on Highway 63 North. All are welcome. For more information contact Leslie Payne at 256-839-1235. NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER: The Alexander City Area Ministerial Association is sponsoring the National Day of Prayer Thursday, May 4 from noon to 1 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Sanctuary.
May 6
CAR WASH: The Pine Ridge Mission Team will have a car wash at Arby’s on Saturday, May 6 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The proceeds will help get our team to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and provide VBS and community outreach to the residents of Wounded Knee, South Dakota. BENEFIT: Mt. Lovely Baptist Church is hosting a benefit program for Edward Lee and Diane Carraker May 6 at 6 p.m. Rev. Bernard Harris is pastor.
May 7
USHER PROGRAM: The Early Rose District Usher’s Special Effort Program will be May 7 at 2:30 p.m. at the Early Rose District Center. Rev. Develkio A. Wilson is the guest speaker. All churches are invited.
May 13
BASS BASH: The Tallapoosa Bass Bash will be May 13 starting at 6 a.m. on the Tallapoosa River. to benefit the Opelika/Auburn chapter of Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing. Prizes will be awarded for best three fish length in conventional and fly rod divisions. MUSIC FESTIVAL: The Ashland Fun Days Music Festival will be My 13 from noon to 8 p.m. The festival will feature local artists including Terry Robbins, Kevin Moon, Argie Darnell, Rocky the Sax Player with Barry Butler, Tony Jones, Big Sexy and the Twins, Bryan Carter and Friends, Tommy Sellers and more. Party with Rebel will be headlining the event. There will also be craft vendors and activities for all ages.
May 14
SOLIDARITY DAY: New Adka Missionary Baptist Church is hosting a solidarity day May 14 at 11 a.m. Edward Milner is pastor and all churches are invited.
May 18
ARTS ASSOCIATION: The Artists Association of Central Alabama will travel to the Birmingham Museum May
18. There will be a car pool by meeting at the Sportplex Senior Center at 8 a.m.
May 20
Hardwood Floors COMMUNITY PRAYER: The Darian Ceramic Tile Missionary Baptist Church family and prayer team are offering prayer to the Carpet & Vinyl community May 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 Locally Owned for Over 45 Years p.m. in the parking lot on the corner of Laurel and E streets across from 256-234-6071 Stephens School. 1945 Hwy 280 • Alexander City SPRING FESTIVAL: Union Volunteer Fire and Rescue (UVF&R) OLMAN will host its 35th Annual Spring Festival on May 20th 2017 at Fire Station LOOR OMPANY #1, 5171 Hwy 50 near Dadeville “WE’RE THE PROFESSIONALS” at Lake Martin. The Festival is the department’s premiere fundraiser and will feature a wide variety of arts and craft booths and household items for sale. The Festival will also present live local musician, “River Dan”, a Military Working Dog Demonstration, BBQ plates for sale, children’s games and other activities designed for the entire family. The keynote event is a cash raffle that has awarded thousands in cash prizes. Tickets are available for a $20 donation. For individuals interested in renting a booth, cost is only $10 for a 10x10 space. If you have questions, would like to rent a booth or obtain raffle tickets, please contact For Consistent Advertising Kurt Pfitzner, Director, Community Outreach, UVF&R, at 334-233-9852. at Low Rates... SCHOOL REUNION: call the Enitahatchabee Day-Bibb Graves Advertising Department High School Alumni and Friends Association 2017 Reunion Saturday, May 20 at the Bibb Graves Community 256.234.4281 Center in Millerville, AL Registration begins at 9 a.m. (registration required + + for drawing of framed Donny Finley print to be given away).Trade Day Shops will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring your family and friends, your smiles, your camera, and your expectations for a spectacular day featuring music, food and laughter. Tell former classmates to meet you there. There will be silent auction, cake walk, 50/50. Food available for purchase tent For Consising with hamburger steak or chicken finger plates, hamburgers, hot dogs, and cold Advertis drinks. Items available for purchase include Donny Finley prints, T-shirts, at cookbooks, DVD’s including football, basketball and school days. call the All alumni and friends are invited to Advertising Dept. come together to remember the good old days. 256.234.4281 COMMUNITY TRADE DAY: + Fellowship Baptist Church at 1731 Buttson Road Dadvillle will be hosting + + + a Community Trade Day May 20. There will be a 5k walk/run beginning at 7 a.m. and cost to enter is $25. Vendor booths will open at 9 a.m. To reserve a booth contact Pastor Clinton Branch at 256-794-3351. Fish plates will also be available.
F
H
C
Small Space Advertising Works.
May 21
BACCALAUREATE SERVICE: The Benjamin Russell Baccalaureate Service for Seniors hosted by he Alexander City Area Ministerial Association will be May 21 at 7 p.m. at the BRHS Auditorium. PASTOR ANNIVERSARY: Hollins Spring Missionary Baptist Church will be hosting its 12th annual Pastoral Anniversary honoring Rev. and Sister Alfred J. Williams Sr. on May 21 at 2:30 p.m. Guest minister and guest church will be Rev. Larry D. Shealey of Darian Missionary Baptist Church in Alexander City.
Small Space Advertising Works.
For Consistent Advertising
at Low Rates ...
call the Advertising Department
256.234.4281
Page 6
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PULSE
Our Community, Our Readers, Your Chamber
Strand Sessions second act set for May 4
ED COLLARI Chamber President & CEO
It’s not just the weather that’s warming up
JACOB MEACHAM VP Business Development
The Lake Martin Young Professionals are excited to host the spring’s second edition of Strand Sessions on Thursday, May 4th featuring live music in downtown Alexander City’s Strand Park from 6-9 pm. East Glenn Band, a three-piece, guitar-picking, singer/songwriter group from Auburn will be May’s performers. The concert is free to attend. In addition to the live music in Strand Park, people are encouraged to come out and enjoy downtown’s atmosphere earlier in the evening with shops staying open until 7 and restaurants and bars offering specials as part of MainStreet Alex
I
t’s my favorite time of year for a variety of reasons. The lake is full, warm weather is here and my garden will soon be full of delicious fruits and vegetables. Spring is also prime season for retail recruitment and Alexander City is a hot market at the moment. All it takes is a drive up and down 280 to see dirt moving and buildings rising. Harbor Freight opening in the Winn Dixie Shopping Center was a huge win for us. In the near future, we hope to make another exciting announcement about a national retailer moving into that shopping center. Dairy Queen is the newest arrival to our community as they are expected to open in late-June on the corner of Lee Street and Hwy 280. The framing being done on the parcel between Zaxby’s and Pizza Hut will soon be a freestanding AT&T store. River Bank and Trust is nearing completion on their beautiful new bank which is days away from opening. Just across the street from their location is the future home Heritage South Credit Union. And I’d be remiss not to mention the Russell Medical Urgent Care facility being built near the Russell Retail store. While not retail, the Russell Medical Urgent Care facility is a huge victory for our community. Not a day goes by that I am not asked about the corner of 280 and 63 where a recent parcel of property has been cleared. While I’m not at liberty to reveal our target for that land, I can say that we hope to have an answer this summer on whether that target is the right fit for Alex City. I will confess that if we are able to secure the tenant we are pursuing, it will be a game-changer for retail in our area. More importantly, it will also provide a significant source of tax revenue to our city. And that is why securing retail and attracting shoppers to spend locally is critical. Those tax dollars generated help support our schools, police and fire departments and the overall operation of our local government. The more retail we can create, the more tax revenue that is generated which means more dollars can be reinvested in our community to make it the best possible place to live and work. It’s a continuous economic cycle. Our downtown is also a hot market for retail and an enormous amount of that credit goes to Richard Wagoner and the MainStreet Organization. Lake Martin Pizza Company will be opening on Broad St. which will significantly alter the landscape of our beautiful downtown in a positive way. Fermenters Market on Alabama St. opened recently and is off to a strong start. Downtown Girl and Sweet GaGa’s bakery are perfect additions to the retail landscape. The Cajun Bistro will be opening their doors in the near future on Board St. and you can expect to see a craft cocktail bar opening soon on Main St. I envision an even more vibrant downtown in the near future with retailers doors open later and heavier amounts of foot traffic throughout. We strive to make downtown Alex City the first-to-mind destination for residents and visitors when they desire a unique place to dine, shop and spend time with friend and family. Another top priority on the Chamber’s list is to backfill the former Fred’s space on Cherokee Road. We’ve had 3-4 potential tenants express interest and we are narrowing that list down to one. I hope to bring you exciting news on that new retailer soon. Please note these deals take time and we are continually negotiating to make sure we provide the residents of Alexander City with the right mix of retailers, dining and shopping. When you are impatient like I am, that can be frustrating, but please know it’s all in the works. In the meantime, try to enjoy the beautiful weather, blooming flowers and all that this season provides because the weather isn’t the only thing heating up in Alex City. Ed Collari is the president and CEO of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce.
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
The Outlook
City’s “Downtown After Dark” initiative. Come and enjoy spending time with your friends and community neighbors in the beautiful setting that downtown Alexander City provides. Consider checking out the selections of the downtown shops, grab a bite to eat, and join us in Strand Park for some good music and great times. Make plans to attend! The fun is made possible by these fantastic community-minded businesses and organizations, and we thank them for their support! Bice Motors, Dark Insurance, Lake Martin Area Association of REALTORS, Lee Marketing Group, Music Depot, Russell Medical – Total Healthcare, and USAmeriBank.
Submitted / The Outlook
Chamber welcomes new service to town David Willis and his staff at Raymond James held a ribbon cutting for their financial advising business on March 29. Call David or Laura to let them help you start planning for your future. Raymond James – 2032 Cherokee Road, Alexander City 256-414-3355.
Chamber to host quarterly luncheon May 23 JACOB MEACHAM VP Business Development
The Alexander City Chamber of Commerce will host a Quarterly Luncheon Tuesday, May 23rd on the topic of The Healthcare Economy which will feature local healthcare leaders discussing the impact of their industry on our local economy. The luncheon will be held at Central Alabama Community College’s Betty Carol Graham Technology Center from 11:30 am until 1 pm. Tickets are $20 and include lunch. National health expenditures hit $3.35 trillion in 2016, which works out to $10,345 for every man, woman and child. In addition to that, employment
of healthcare occupations is projected to grow 19 percent by 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations, adding about 2.3 million new jobs. Driving those upward trends are an aging nationwide population and federal health insurance requirements increasing the number of individuals who have access to health insurance. In Alexander City and Tallapoosa County, healthcare-related jobs represent a significant percentage of our employment base with Russell Medical, Lake Martin Community Hospital, the Bill Nichols State Veterans Home, several large assisted living facilities and many pharmacies and other healthcare businesses calling our
area home. It’s easy to see that healthcare and the associated industries are and will continue to be a driving force of our local, state and national economies. We invite you to join us along with healthcare leaders from around the area as they discuss the importance of their industry to our community. Topics will include healthcare services, job creation, the role healthcare plays in economic development and quality of life, and healthcare trends on the horizon that could impact our community. To RSVP, call the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce at (256) 234-3461 or visit the office at 175 Aliant Parkway inside the Lake Martin Innovation Center.
Tuesday, April 25, 2017
The Outlook
www.alexcityoutlook.com
PULSE
Page 7
Our Community, Our Readers, Your Chamber
NEW MEMBERS OF ALEXANDER CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Buffalo Rock Company – 1200 Emory Folmar Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36110 334-394-4452 Distinct Home Inspection, LLC – 1816 Roanoke Lane, Auburn, AL 36830 256-749-5340
File / The Outlook
Downtown Girl, LLC – 49 Main Street, Alexander City, AL 35010 256-496-2437 The Lake Martin Experience – 8404 County Road 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-750-5200
The Lake Martin Innovation Center will host a grand opening and ribbon cutting today from 4-6 p.m. The event is open to the public and will include catered food, drinks, live music and tours of the facility. Conveniently located off U.S. Highway 280 in Alexander City, the 17,000 square foot facility will function as a business incubator, complete with office suites, highspeed fiber internet and co-working space targeted to professionals that work from home, travel through the area to do business or reside full-time or part-time on Lake Martin.
Please join USAmeriBank and the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce for a
INNOVATION CENTER Tuesday, April 25, 2017 4:00-6:00 pm
Ribbon Cutting at 5:00pm 175 Aliant Parkway | Alexander City Please RSVP to Kim Dunn: kim.dunn@alexandercitychamber.com | 256-234-3461 The Lake Martin Innovation Center features office suites for entrepreneurs and new and growing businesses along with co-working membership areas. The Center offers high-speed fiber internet, multiple conference rooms and meeting space equipped with state-of-the-art audio/visual technology.
Page 8
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Town & Country Cleaners
Construction, Inc.
And Shoe Repair
1222 Cherokee Road 212-9600 HOURS: Monday-Friday 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - Noon
SECURITY
Rhodes Brothers
WE REFLOAT SUNKEN BOATS.
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256-307-1313
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(256) 329-1018
Cell: 256-675-0217
BIG “B” BAR-B-QUE Hwy. 22 West, Alexander City, AL (Off Hwy. 280)
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Tuesday, April 25, 2017
The Outlook
RED FLAG PEST CONTROL Serving Central Alabama
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Hwy. 280 • Jackson’s Gap www.redflagpestcontrol.com
256-329-0500 www.riverbankandtrust.com S U P E R
Brown Nursing Home
T I R E
2334 Washington St. Alexander City, AL 35010 Phone: (256) 329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
Zaxby’s® gift cards are perfect for the chicken lovers in your life. Available in any amount from $5 to $100, So next time you are at Zaxby’s, ask about our gift cards.
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Hours: Fri. & Sat. 10:30-11:00
Sun. - Thurs. 10:30-9:00
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LAKE MARTIN GARAGE TOWING, TIRES & MUFFLER
256.825.6139
ZAXBY’S 4497 Hwy. 280 •Alexander City, AL (256) 234-2181
3701 Dadeville Road, Alexander City ( 256 ) 234-6366 Rehab• Long-Term Care• Assisted Living
New & Used Boats • Yamaha Waverunners Yamaha Golf Carts • Full-Service Marina & Service Center • Wet Slips & Dry Storage
256.357.2045
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“We Touch the Lives of the People You Love”
DADEVILLE HEALTHCARE CENTER Kim Russell, Administrator 385 E. LaFayette St., Dadeville 256.825.9244
Adam’s Health & Rehab We Care About You And Your Loved Ones!
S TEVE K ING , S R . P ASTOR Court Square, Alexander City • 256-234-6351• www.fbc-ac.org
Owners: Heather Johnson Hallie McDonald Brittni Moran 126 Marshall Street Alexander City, AL
“Special Touch of Sweet”
256-392-5676
(256) 329-0847
256-825-2100
1555 Hillabee Street Alexander City
10973 County Road 34, Dadeville www.kelleyshvac.com • AL License #99129
– FINANCING AVAILABLE – Sales • Service • Installation P.O. Box 103, Alex City, AL (256) 329-8488
ELIZABETH HOMES LLC
Wright’s Funeral Home
MAGGIN EDWARDS, MANAGER 5639 Elmore Road•Elmore, AL•334-567-0446 Toll Free 1-800-246-0220
131 Mason son Street • Alexander City, AL
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Tuesday, April 25, 2017
The Outlook
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The Outlook
Abuse Easterwood said typically in such cases a hold is put on the individual by immigration officials until the case is resolved and then the subject is deported. Court records show that Hernandez has plead guilty to two counts of possession of a forged instrument and one count of possession of a controlled substance. He was sentenced to two years in prison, but the time was suspended as a part of a plea agreement. Instead, Hernandez served two years
Ongoing Events GRIEF SHARE: There will be a meeting of Grief Share every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Trinity Campus of First United Methodist Church next door to Russell Medical through June 7. RECYCLING: The Alexander City Recycling Facility is located at the Public Works Department at 824 Railey Road. All materials should be dropped off behind the green storage shed on the Public Works lot. The facility is always open for unassisted drop off. Assistance with drop off is available between 7:00 am until 3:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Please call 256-409-2020 for more information. CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP: Every second and fourth Sunday at 5 p.m. the Trinity campus of First United Methodist Church will be a caregiver support group. Call 256-786-1685 for more information. TOPS MEETING: Take Off Pounds Sensibly is the short name for TOPS Club, Inc., the original nonprofit, noncommercial network of weight-loss support groups throughout the U.S. and Canada. TOPS offers tools and programs for healthy living and weight management, with exceptional group fellowship and recognition. Established in 1948 to champion weight-loss support and success, we’ve helped millions of people live healthier lives. Come out and visit us. Your first meeting is free. Meetings are held every Thursday @ 6 p.m. at Comer Baptist Church, 341 E. Church St., Alexander City, AL. Call (256) 496-4210 for more information. WOMEN’S MEETING: Victory Temple Holiness Church in Dadeville is hosting a women’s meeting the first Sunday of every month. Men are invited too. AWANA: Wayside Baptist Church hosts Awana Sundays from 4:40 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for ages three to high school. For more information contact George Gardin, student minister, at 864-580-0343. VOLUNTEER: Southern Care Hospice is seeking volunteers. Please call Lizz Gillenwaters at 256-234-1134 or 256-7493717 for more information. WOMAN MEETING: Every first Sunday, Victory Temple Holiness Church hosts a women’s meeting, at 237 Aster St. in Dadeville. Everyone is invited. The meeting starts at 2 p.m. READY TO WORK: Ready to Work is a FREE jobs skills training program offered
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on probation and was ordered to pay court costs, restitution and pay a small fine. Records show that Hernandez never paid any of what was ordered by the court, but had not been taken back into custody.
Williams to be sentenced today in abuse case A 42-year-old Alexander City man who was found was found guilty earlier
at Central Alabama Community College Career Center. Classes meet Monday through Wednesday from 8 a.m. until noon. Completion of the program depends on the skill level of the individual. For more information contact Elaine Balint, instructor, at 256-215-4496 (leave message) or ebalint@ cacc.edu. OFFICE CAREERS: The Office Careers Technology program is funded by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and was created to help dislocated workers learn new employable skills. To qualify for the programs be a dislocated worker (layoff) or a low-income family. Anyone interested in the classes should contact the Alexander City Career Center @ 256-215-4494 and ask about the WIA program. Most all dislocated workers automatically qualify for financial assistance. The program is 52 weeks and is open entry/open exit. Students learn at their own pace in a non-traditional classroom setting. Classes begin when students are approved and they may leave when they receive any or all of the certificates offered. Classes are Monday--Thursday, 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (with a lunch break). All textbooks and class materials are supplied. Certificates available are receptionist, inventory clerk, data entry clerk, administrative assistant, accounting office clerk, medical office clerk, legal office clerk. COMPUTER LAB: The new and improved computer lab at Cooper Community Center is now open to the community Monday thru Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. LaBrawnski Salter is the new lab facilitator. You can check email, browse the internet, build a resume, complete a project or homework, research, job search and some social media. CELEBRATE RECOVERY: Celebrate Recovery is a Christ-centered ministry designed to help hurting people. It is made up of regular folks who are on a journey toward wholeness; seeking recovery from life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups. We meet every Monday at Vertical Point Church, 860 Airport Drive, Alex City. We begin with dinner at 5:45, followed by large group at 6:15 & small groups at 7:15. Childcare is provided. Everyone is welcome. For more info, call Mike at 256-496-4664. CCTS ALUMNI MEETING: The Coosa County Train School and J.D. Thompson alumni association hold monthly meetings the third Saturday of each month.
this month of sex crimes against two young girls will be sentenced this morning. Henry Lemanns Williams, 42, was convicted of sexual abuse of a child and sodomy after a trial that spanned four days, with a one-day weather delay. Judge Tom Young, who presided over the trial, will sentence Williams, Each count has a suggested sentence of between two and 20 years, but District Attorney Jeremy Duerr indicated that he plans to ask Young to go beyond
the recommendation due to the nature of the crimes and Williams criminal history. The girls are now 14 and 16, and they both testified about a series of events where Williams touched them inappropriately and performed acts upon them. In one case a victim was drugged before Williams abused her and they testified that Williams hit them and threatened to kill them if they told anyone what he had done.
Congratulate your GRAD! This month The Outlook will publish senior photos for the local graduating classes. We will include graduate photos and your special message on or near the graduation pages. Benjamin Russell - May 26th • Horseshoe Bend - May 24th Central High School Coosa County - May 30th
Congrats! We are so proud of you! Always believe in yourself and dream big. We Love You!! Mom, Dad & Sissy Crystal Williams
Benjamin Russell High School
2x2 Grad Tribute Ad:
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class of 2017
You Made It! 2x4 Grad Tribute Ad:
$95 *other ad sizes available upon request.
We love you so much and couldn’t be more proud of your achievements! Aim for the stars! Love, Mom, Dad, Jacob and Alex
class of 2017
Kaleb Johnson
Horseshoe Bend High School
Email, call or come by Tallapoosa Publishers. Payment, photos and message must be turned in by Thursday, May 18th.
256-234-4281 • donna.jones@alexcityoutlook.com 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010
LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
sports@alexcityoutlook.com
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Tuesday, April 25, 2017
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Horseshoe Bend opens area’s spring practices
LUKE ROBINSON Columnist
Predictions come true at Alabama spring game
By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
I
don’t need to tell you people I am wrong more than I am right. In fact, I am wrong about being wrong more than I am right. But last week in this very column, I was right about my predictions for Alabama’s spring game. Very right. Really right. Like, so right that Fox News inquired about my becoming Bill O’Reily’s replacement. Let’s review and then all pat me on the back, shall we? Prediction 1: Tua Tagovailoa will “wow” you more than Jalen Hurts… Like a focused carpenter, I nailed it! Hurts was certainly impressive and showed the reasons why he will continue to be the starter heading into 2017, but Tagovailoa had folks buzzing on air, online and in person. The young lefty was deadly accurate and had a special zip on each pass. He even got Jeff Sessions to later say, “You know… Maybe I underestimated that little island in the Pacific.” Prediction 2: Robert Foster’s coming out party… While superstar Calvin Ridley and frosh phenom Jerry Jeudy had better days statistically, Foster showed the skills that made him the top wide receiver recruit in the country years ago. Two catches for 115 yards and a touchdown against Bama’s defense is a dang fine day. It’s hard to imagine a better trio of receivers than Ridley, Jeudy and Foster at this point. Prediction 3: Najee Harris impresses… Harris’ best run was far and away his first carry for 22 yards, but he caught my eye by the way he moved the pile against overwhelming odds. Seventeen carries for 70 yards and no touchdowns does not a Heisman make, but the fact the emphasis on this scrimmage was on the passing game surely held Harris (and all running backs participating) back from putting up big numbers. I saw enough from Najee to know he will earn plenty of carries early and often. Prediction 4: The kickers will struggle… Sweet Mother Earth, the Tide’s kickers are bad. I am beginning to think the safety nets that usually stand behind the goal posts should be moved to each side so as to protect random fans from wobbly shanks. Punter JK Scott did kick the gamewinner in the end, but even that one seemed to go in by accident. Alabama signed kicker Joseph Bulovas last February and he will be on campus in the fall. Assuming he doesn’t kick worse than a gout-ridden Charlie Brown, the job will easily be his. Prediction 5: More emphasis on the tight end… The numbers weren’t mindboggling (six catches among all tight ends for 71 yards) unless you know the tight ends had only 53 yards total last season; and that was through 15 games and with first-round draft talent OJ Howard. It seems new offensive coordinator Brian Daboll is going to make the tight end a popular position again. So, if you are grading at home, I should have received a 4.5/5 at worst on these prognostications. Keep that in mind the next time I go 0-er in a predictions column.
Luke Robinson is a regular columnist and president of the Lake Martin BAMA Club.
New Horseshoe Bend football coach Josh Averett led the Generals through their first spring practice session Monday afternoon.
SPRING FOOTBALL PRACTICE SCHEDULE
For the first time ever, Horseshoe Bend took to the football field under its new coach Josh Averett on Monday, as the Generals were the first local team to host spring practice on Monday. “Spring is just about fine-tuning everything, and getting everyone in place,” Generals quarterback Cade Worthy said. “You’re trying to learn the system, learn the offense, but you don’t really learn it in detail. Not as much as you would in the fall, but you learn basic stuff – basic fundamentals of the game, basic offensive and defensive concepts and stuff like that.” All of the area’s teams will be heading to the gridiron in the next two weeks to start their own spring practices, but for now, Horseshoe Bend has a lot to learn. Averett is expected to implement a run-pass option, and a group of 24 returning seniors will be working under a new coach for the first time in their careers. “It’s going to be new with a new coach,” said wide receiver/ cornerback Luke Yarbrough said. “We’re just looking at what the season is going to be like and touching up on things.” Worthy said, “I started 10th- and 11th-grade under coach (Jason) Franklin, and I worked his system my whole career, so it’s gonna be tough. But I feel like I can learn it, and I’m ready to learn it. I’m going in with an open mind. (Averett) knows what kind of athletes we’ve got, and he’s ready for us, so we’re ready to learn his system, also.” For the first two to three days, players Cliff Williams / The Outlook will be in just helmets
The area’s schedule for spring football practice is as follows: Benjamin Russell: Begins Monday, May 1; practices will be Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.; Spring game against Valley on Friday, May 19 at 5:30 p.m. Reeltown: Begins Tuesday, April 25; practices will be Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday the first week; Monday, Wednesday and Thursday the second week; and Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday the final week; Spring game at Troy University on Saturday, May 13. Dadeville: Begins Tuesday, May 2; practices will be 3:30 to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; Monday and Thursday the second week; and Tuesday through Thursday the final week; Squad game on Friday, May 19. Horseshoe Bend: Began Monday, April 24; practices are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 3 to 5 p.m.; Jamboree at Jacksonville State University on Saturday, May 13. Central Coosa: Begins Tuesday, May 2; practices will be Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 3:15 to 5:15 p.m.; Scrimmage at Central Coosa on Saturday, May 6 at 8 a.m.; Jamboree at Jacksonville State University on Saturday, May 13.
but will don full pads after the first week of practice. Horseshoe Bend, along with Central Coosa, will play in a jamboree at Jacksonville State University on May 13. “It’s a good look because you play a team in the area,” Worthy said. “It’s just great to get back on the field. I’m very excited, especially going into senior year. I’m expecting big things from this team.”
Reeltown impresses at weekend invitational By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
Reeltown’s track and field team racked up a plethora of -10 finishes at the Hornets Invitational on Saturday. Competing in the small school division at Beauregard’s invite, the Rebels collected a total of five first-place finishes and were top 10 in 24 other events. Eric Shaw was the highlight of the day for Reeltown, earning two top spots. In the boys high jump, he cleared a personal record of 6-0, and in the 300 hurdles, he finished with a meet-best time of 42.84 seconds. On the girls side, Nyla Hayden took the top spot in the javelin with a mark of 99-1. A pair of Rebel relay teams also earned first place. The 4x400 girls team of Ronnetra Joseph, Hayden, Taylor Coffield and Gabrielle Williams won in 6:13.02, and the boys 4x800 team of Colby Clark, Xavier Mabson, Zantjuan Knight and Rhasheed Wilson crossed the line first in 10:29.58. Reeltown also had a collection of secondplace finishes. Shaw, Cameron Faison, Makevon Hughley and Wilson were second in the 4x100 with a time of 45.63, while Derrick Hammonds hit a mark of 120-4.25 in the javelin. Shaw also rounded out his fine performance by notching second in the 110 hurdles in 15.5. For the girls, the 4x100 team of Wells, Taniya Haynes, Mya Coleman and Diyanna Newton was also second, clocking in at 55.26, while Eryn Wells was second in the 100 hurdles with a time of 19.91. In the field, Reeltown’s girls were espe-
cially impressive, finishing in the top 10 in all of their events. Taniya Harris was fourth in the triple jump with a mark of 30-0; and Eryn Wells jumped 13-5 in the long jump, good enough for eighth. In the shot put, Reeltown took sixth, seventh and eighth, respectively, with Hayden (26-0), Kinaysha Harrison (241.5) and Lexie Worley (22-9) earning places. Other top performers on the girls side included Haynes (200, 8th, 30.19); Raven Parker (800, 4th, 3:09.31 and 1,600, 4th, 6:58.25); Coffield (800, 6th, 3:12.51); Newton (100 hurdles, 3rd, 20.15 and 300 hurdles, 8th, 1:00.03); and Coleman (300 hurdles, 9th, 1:06.28). Some other highlights for the boys included Hughley (100, 3rd, 11.87; 200, 5th, 24.52; and long jump, 6th, 19-3); Faison (100, 5th, 12.10); Wilson (300 hurdles, 10th, 54.19); and Mabson (triple jump, 6th, 36-5.5.
with a 6-1 win against the Indians to start Saturday’s action. Baker highlighted the victory with a home run and a double, while Stoneback smacked two singles. The next two games featured thrilling wins for the Rebels. They came from behind with three runs in the top of the sixth to take down Weaver, 4-3, and pushed through a run in the top of the seventh to defeat Sylacauga by the same score. Against Weaver, Morgan McGuire, Baker and Ashlynn Thomas all had two hits for Reeltown, while Katlyn Jaye smashed a home run in the next game. Errors got the best of the Rebels in the tournament’s final, 7-5 loss to Handley, as they allowed six unearned runs. Stoneback had a fine weekend in the circle. In 24 2/3 innings of work, she allowed just 22 hit and 15 runs, only three of which were earned. She struck out 30 and walked only six.
SOFTBALL Reeltown 4-1-1 at weekend tourney
It was quite a weekend for Reeltown at a softball tournament this weekend, as its only loss came in the final outing against Handley. Reeltown got off to a great start, earning a 12-3 win over Pell City on Friday. The Rebels racked up 13 hits, including three hits and two RBIs from Ayriana Stoneback. Makenzie Baker drove in three runs and notched two hits. Kayli Hornsby and Ashlynn Thomas each contributed a single and a double. After closing out Friday with a 3-3 tie against Ohatchee, Reeltown stormed back
BASEBALL Horseshoe Bend’s season ends
In the first round of the AHSAA Class 2A playoffs, Horseshoe Bend was ousted by Cottonwood in two games. After being defeated 6-1 in the first game, the Generals put up a much better fight in Game 2, taking Cottonwood to nine innings before suffering a 1-0 loss. “We played well Game 2, but just couldn’t get it going at the plate,” Horseshoe Bend coach Jason Johnson said. The Generals managed just five hits on the day.
PREP SPORTS SCHEDULE Tuesday, April 25 Softball JV: Sylacauga at Horseshoe Bend, 4:30 p.m. Varsity: Sylacauga at Horseshoe Bend, 6 p.m.
Wednesday, April 27 Softball JV: Elmore County at Horseshoe Bend, 4:30 p.m. Varsity: Elmore County at Horseshoe Bend, 6 p.m.
Thursday, April 28
Girls soccer Varsity: Benjamin Russell at Northridge, AHSAA Class 6A firstround playoff game, 5 p.m.
Varsity: Reeltown at J.U. Blacksher, AHSAA Class 2A second-round series, 3 and 5 p.m.
Varsity: Reeltown at J.U. Blacksher, AHSAA Class 2A second-round series, noon, if necessary
Track and field
Softball
Varsity: Benjamin Russell at Northridge, AHSAA Class 6A firstround playoff game, 7 p.m.
Varsity: Benjamin Russell in section meet at Mountain Brook Varsity: Reeltown in section meet at Beauregard
Varsity: Benjamin Russell at Prattville Christian Round Robin Tournament
Friday, April 28 Baseball
Saturday, April 29 Baseball
Varsity: Benjamin Russell in section meet at Mountain Brook Varsity: Reeltown in section meet at Beauregard
Boys soccer
Varsity: Benjamin Russell at Chelsea, AHSAA Class 6A secondround series, 5 and 7 p.m.
Varsity: Benjamin Russell at Chelsea, AHSAA second-round series, if necessary
Track and field