PAGE 4: THERE IS NO ROOM IN THE WORLD FOR HATE
THE
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892
CHAMBER PULSE, PAGE 6 River Bank & Trust holds ribbon cutting
TUESDAY
SPORTS, PAGE 12
August 15, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 161 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢ Rogers ends Alabama career on high note
Local veterans voice their opinions on U.S.-Korea tensions By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Every day seems to bring a new development in the growing tensions between the United States and North Korea. This includes the flight of two American B-1 Lancer bombers near the North Korean-South Korean border as a response to the test of a North Korean ballistic missile and the latest threats from Kim Jong-Un to envelop Guam in a “ring
Leonard Morse
of fire,” translated as aiming four Hwasong-12 missiles towards the island, splashing down approximately 20 miles off the coast of Guam. With the North Korean situation threatening to destabilize the region and potentially lead into a major war, finding a solution to the problem has seen mixed reactions, with the United Nations joining together in levying heavy sanctions against North Korea and
President Donald Trump threatening to rain down “fire and fury like the world has never seen” on North Korea, a statement several world leaders feel was not beneficial to defusing the issue. A few local veterans who served during the time of the 1950-1953 conflict that ended in a stalemate hold their own opinions on the situations, which seems to be See KOREA • Page 3
Charles Traylor
County all set for Election Day Commissioners also OK cost of living adjustment for retirees By MITCH SNEED Editor
Practice for next Saturday’s Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby was held Saturday on Columbus Street in Dadeville and, if the racers that showed up is any indication, the event will be a smashing success. Cars built from wheelbarrows and lawnmower wheels to fabricated machines with custom paint jobs – there was a little bit of everything. “The big thing is to have something for the kids to do away from the telephones and video games,” said organizer Marrell Ward. “Hopefully it had adults and kids working together on their cars and judging from the smiles we see out here today, I think they are having a good time.” The races will be held Saturday Aug. 19 at 1 p.m. Ward wants to also create a festival atmosphere starting at 10 a.m. near the Dadeville High School football field Aug. 19 and he has not forgotten the adults as they will be able to race after the children. Ward even built seven cars and a few still need drivers. For more information call Ward at 256-496-0339.
Trial run for Dadeville Derby a success
The polls will be open today and voters can make their selection in the Republican and Democratic primaries for U.S. Senate. The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., but Monday at a meeting of the Tallapoosa County Commissioners, Tallapoosa County Probate Court Judge Leon Archer ran through a list of 28 things that his employees had to do to get ready for today’s vote. “It’s unusual, but this is the second straight year we have had elections and with next year being a gubernatorial election, it will make three straight See COMMISSION • Page 3
County Extension Office offers Beef Basics class By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
The Tallapoosa County Extension Office in Dadeville will be offering a Beef Basics course throughout the month of September and into early October. Designed for those in the cattle business who want to make their production of beef as profitable as possible, the class was designed with personal interactions between the students and their teachers each week. “This is the first time we’ve offered a class like See CLASS • Page 3
Church youth ministry works to clean club offices By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
A group of nearly 10 youth and young adults from First Baptist Church of Alexander City gathered at the Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area office on Cherokee Road Saturday morning to do some work sprucing up the facility. From 10 a.m. until noon Saturday, several of these young adults grabbed paintbrushes and repainted the baseboard trim in the building’s back hallway, while others took clippers into the yard and pruned the bushes surrounding the house-turned-office. “We’re super excited. We feel very blessed and special,” said Marketing and Development Manager Shelby Boswell. “We have all women in our office, and we don’t always have the time to
Today’s
Weather
88 74 High
Low
come together and set a time that’s good for us to do these things.” “I think it’s wonderful the church has come out and volunteered today,” Executive Director Melissa Reynolds said. “It’s always nice to see members of the community coming together today for the Boys and Girls Club.” First Baptist Church Senior Pastor Dr. Steve King, who was overseeing the group on site, explained what brought his group to the Boys and Girls Club offices. “This is a part of Disciple Now Weekend. Groups of students are staying together over the weekend, with time set aside for discipleship, worship and service,” he said. “We want to teach these young Christians to serve and give back to others.” King also said that there were other groups of students from the
54708 90050 USPS Permit # 013-080
Lake Levels
490.54 laceyshowell@gmail.com
5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL
Donald Campbell / The Outlook
First Baptist Church Senior Pastor Dr. Steve King oversees Hunter Worthy, Owen Wilson, Jordan Johnson and Dax Culligan as they paint the baseboards and trim in the back hallway of the Boys and Girls Club offices.
We Care About You and Your Loved Ones!
FIRMLY ROOTED IN LAKE MARTIN AND HERE TO STAY.
Reported on 08/14/17 @ 5 p.m.
8
See MINISTRY • Page 3
Lake Martin
LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443 6
church performing similar work elsewhere in town, finding places that give back to the community then supporting them and the job they do by taking on work like gardening and painting. “That’s what being a disciple is all about. It’s about being a servant,” he said. A number of the students at the club office Saturday morning expressed how they felt about being able to go out and offer their assistance in such a positive manner. “It’s good just to help others. When someone needs help, it’s good to be able to help them,” said Owen Wilson. “It’s cool that we can come out, bond here and help the community,” Hunter Worthy said. “It always feels good to help
FREE CONSULTATIONS
Evening & Weekend Appointments Available Upon Request
256-329-1313 • 217 Madison Street, Alexander City, AL “We are a Debt Relief Agency. We help people file Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 under the Bankruptcy Code. Alabama State Bar requires the following in every attorney advertisement, “ No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”
•Home-like Environment • Specialized Dementia Care Unit •Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Services
A DAMS HEALTH & REHAB 1555 HILLABEE STREET • (256) 329-0847
Page 2
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Girlfriend urges more pushback against disapproving parents
Wednesday
89 74 Low
High
Partly sunny, 40 percent chance of thunderstorms
Thursday
90 74 Low
High
Partly sunny, 40 percent chance of thunderstorms
Staff
Directory Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com Santana Wood Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 santana.wood@alexcityoutlook.com
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
Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Retail Sales Manager, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Advertising Sales, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Rebecca Carlisle Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 rebecca.carlisle@alexcityoutlook.com Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com
Newsroom Amy Passaretti Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, Ext. 228 lizi.arbogast@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.
Postal
Information
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.
© 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
Obituaries can be submitted to The How to Submit Outlook from funeral homes by e-mail obits@alexcityoutlook.com For more Obituaries atinformation, call (256) 234-4281.
Many a small thingg
largge... hhasass bbeen eeen mmade ade
...with the right kind of advertising.
256.234.4281
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
The Outlook
SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law
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.
DEAR ABBY: I am in an interracial relationship with a guy whose parents don’t support our being together because I’m from a different race and culture than he is. Our countries of origin were antagonistic in the past. When his parents tell him to break off relations with me, he listens patiently and defends his affection for me. He does not, however, really speak up for me or point out how unfair their prejudice is, given that they’ve never even met me. This is my first interracial relationship. My parents don’t have a problem with it. Is it too much to ask my boyfriend to speak up the next time his parents lecture him? -UNDEFENDED IN THE SOUTH DEAR UNDEFENDED: Not knowing your boyfriend, his parents or how they relate to one another, I can’t judge whether he should challenge them any further than he is already. I think it would be a mistake for you
DEAR ABBY Advice
to try to script him. You didn’t mention how long you two have been involved, but if the relationship continues, they may -- at some point -- mellow. DEAR ABBY: You and your readers may consider my problem trivial, but to me it’s really irritating. My wife, who is in her early 60s, has the figure of a 40-year-old. She’s a great lover, fabulous cook, wonderful mother to our four children and warms my heart when I see her enter the room. The problem is, my teeth are spaced rather far apart, and food gets stuck between them. After every meal, I need to use a toothpick, yet she refuses to put toothpicks -- even in an
attractive container -- on the table. She says they will just collect dust and are not pretty. On top of that, she refuses to allow a pill container for my vitamins or heart medicine. I would never leave her over this, but what can I do with this stubborn, but otherwise wonderful woman? -- PICK-LESS IN PENNSYLVANIA DEAR PICK-LESS: Your nearly perfect wife may prefer that you pick your teeth somewhere other than at the table, and would like you to take your medications elsewhere as well. While it would be nice if she were more solicitous, you may have to appreciate her for the other fine qualities you mentioned, because it doesn’t appear that she’s going to budge to accommodate you. DEAR ABBY: I have a 39-year-old daughter I’ll call “Angela” who attracts unsavory underground types -- thieves, druggies, homeless -- wherever
she lives. My husband and I recently decided to move to Mexico because we are both retired. My husband and son are driving his vehicle, and I am driving my own. My husband asked me if I wanted to invite Angela to drive with me. I’m afraid if I do, she may decide to stay with us after we arrive, and more of those unsavory types will start coming around. Should I not worry about it? I’m in need of practical advice. -- RETIREE IN THE WEST DEAR RETIREE: You are making a new start. My “practical advice” is to follow your better judgment and resist the urge to invite your daughter to accompany you on the journey. 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. Billy Joe Davis, Sr. 1935 - 2017 Funeral Service for Mr. Billy Joe Davis, Sr., 82, of Alexander City, was Sunday, August 13, 2017 at 4:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Rev. Wayne Hicks and Mr. Joel Graham officiated. Burial followed in the Alexander City Cemetery. The family received friends on Sunday, August 13, 2017 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. Mr. Davis passed away on Friday, August 11, 2017 at his residence. He was born on June 21, 1935 in Alexander City, Alabama to James O. Davis and Emma Pauline Davis. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Duck Davis of Alexander City; sons, Jeffery Brian Davis (Blakeney) of
Logansville, GA and Billy Joe Davis, Jr. (Sonya) of Phenix City; grandchildren, Matthew Davis (Amber), April Davis and Savannah Clayton; great-grandchildren, Jake Davis, Kyndal Davis, Gage Davis, Baylee Bryant, Lenlee Davis and Servenson Clayton; and sister, Betty Joyce Fennell of Alexander City. He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Glenda Sue Davis; sisters, Barbara Gail Davis and Judy Faye Florine; and brother, Bobby Davis. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be given to the Building Fund at Duncan Memorial United Methodist Church, 3997 Hillabee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www. radneyfuneralhome.com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Police Reports Alexander City Police Department August 13
• Laterrance Trevonchez Hutchinson, 24, of Alexander City was arrested for burglary. • Erin Leigh McNeely, 35, of Hardin, Texas was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and possession of methamphetamine. • Dwight Orlando Lewis, 46, of Alexander City was arrested for driving under the influence alcohol. • Unlawful breaking and entering and criminal trespass was reported on S Street. • Harassment was reported in the 600 block of Johnson Street. • Harassment was reported on Court Square. • Burglary was reported in Alexander City. • Criminal trespass was reported in the 900 block of C Street. • Criminal trespass was reported in the 1200 block of Andrew Jackson Road. • Theft and criminal trespass was reported on Joseph Street. • Criminal mischief was reported on Locust Street. • Harassing communications was reported on Highway 280. • Harassing communications was reported on Parkway Circle. • Two counts of possession of controlled substance was reported on Highway 280. • Domestic violence was reported
on Young Street.
August 12
• Latravous La’Duston Gray, 18, of Alexander City was arrested for criminal trespass. • Jaquerrius Xavion Hunter, 18, of Alexander City was arrested for criminal trespass. • Magnes Kenwaske Foster, 34, of Alexander City was arrested for drug paraphernalia, fleeing/attempting to elude law enforcement officer and resisting arrest. • Thomas Mitchell Tate, 21, of Goodwater was arrested for possession of open container in a motor vehicle. • Kenneth Lynn Tankersley, 35, of Alexander City was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. • Joshua Wayne Underwood, 29, of Oneonta was arrested for public intoxication. • Robbery was reported on Celia Circle. • Possession of drug paraphernalia and fleeing/ attempting to elude a law enforcement officer was reported on I Street. • Theft was reported on Bethany Road. • Harassment was reported on Fish Pond Road. • Theft and domestic violence was reported on South Road Court. • Public intoxication was reported on Dadeville Road. • Driving under the influence of alcohol and open possession of alcohol in a motor vehicle was reported on Cherokee Road. • Leaving the scene of an accident was reported on Highway 280.
August 11
• Janet Tuck, 52, of Alexander City was arrested for public intoxication. • Joseph William Rice, 51, of Alexander City was arrested for driving under the influence of
alcohol. • Thomas Drake Sharpe, 29, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, public intoxication, resisting arrest and open possession of alcohol in a motor vehicle. • Public intoxication was reported on N Street. • Domestic violence was reported on Celia Circle. • Animal abandonment was reported in Alexander City. • Domestic violence was reported on Lee Street.
Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department August 13
• Roger Champion of Valley Grove Road in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for probation violation.
August 12
• Jacob Freeman of Boone Valley Road in Jacksons Gap was arrested on outstanding warrants for failure to appear driving under the influence and switched tag. • A resident of Papoose Drive in Jacksons Gap filed a report for theft.
August 11
• Keona Smith of J Street in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear chemical endangerment to a child. • Brieon Kelly of D Street in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for violation of a domestic violence protection order. • Margaret Williams of Country Club Drive in Luverne was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear for possession of paraphernalia. • Brian Trammell of Houston Street in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for probation violation.
HILLABEE TOWERS
Great Location • Peaceful Setting Comfortable Living ONE MONTH FREE RENT REN Restrictions Apply
Rent Based On Income, 62 Years And Older Or Mobility Impaired Refrigerator, Stove, Carpet, Blinds, Heat/Air, Tile With Carpet, Laundry Room Facilities – Electric and Water Included
Call Hillabee Towers Today! (256) 329-0552 1001 Tallapoosa Street Alexander City, AL
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Class
continued from page 1
this. It’s a spin-off of the online Beef Basics course we offer,” said Sarah Dickinson, a regional extension agent on animal science and forages with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. With the in-person class fashioned in a similar manner to the online version, Dickinson said she would like to see people look at the virtual class before each Thursday night’s session, but it would not be necessary to do so in order to attend each week. Starting a formal class like this came about for a couple of reasons, according to Dickinson. There are those who may not use the Internet and so would not be able to participate in the online version of the course, while some, predominantly newcomers to the beef and cattle industry, have many questions. “We want to provide one-on-one interactions and answer questions the online class couldn’t,” she said. Beginning at 6 p.m. each Thursday evening, the two-hour sessions would be split in half, with the first part of the class reviewing general information about that particular class’s subject, and the second half allowing attendees to ask questions they may have regarding the topic at hand. Each class could have an estimated cap of 25 attendees, and anyone who has an interest in learning more about the world of beef and cattle production is welcome to attend. “It’s open to anyone, whether someone’s thinking about getting cattle, is new to it, or if they’ve been doing this for a while now,”
Dickinson said. “Mature youth, like those in 4-H might get something out of it too.” While those who want to attend are allowed to pick and choose which Thursday nights they want to attend, Dickinson said that they would get the biggest benefit by coming all five nights. “Those who attend all the classes will receive a Certificate of Completion and takehome items that can benefit them in their production,” she said. In the future, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System may look at offering courses like this in other places, using the Tallapoosa County class as a pilot program to determine its feasibility, according to Dickinson. Open to anyone interested in gaining more in-depth knowledge about how to better handle cattle and maximizing the potential profit of their beef production, the Beef Basics course will be held at the Tallapoosa County Extension Office inside the Tallapoosa County Courthouse on North Broadnax Street in Dadeville every Thursday between Sept. 7 and Oct. 5 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Registration is $5 per class or $25 for the entire five-week course, which helps cover the cost of supplies and meals provided each week. Participants are asked to call the Tallapoosa County Extension Office at (256)825-1050 and register at least one week before every class they want to attend. Info box to the side-
Donald Campbell / The Outlook
Boys and Girls Club Marketing and Development Manager Shelby Boswell pitches in Saturday morning, hauling trimmed brush down to the side of the road.
Class Schedule:
AI
Page 3
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
Sept. 7- Economics and Marketing Sept. 14- Nutrition for the Beef Herd Sept. 21- Reproductive Management and
Sept. 28- Genetics, EPDs and Bull Selection Oct. 5- Forage Systems to Extend the Grazing Season (Closing Program)
Ministry
continued from page 1
others,” added Peyton Carr. “We get community service hours, and it’s fun too, helping the kids out.” Boswell was also happy to state that the church had expressed interest in coming back in the future and working on projects like they had completed Saturday morning. She took the time to invite anyone in the community to come and volunteer with the Boys and Girls Club. “We appreciate all sorts of volunteers, whether they’re cleaning around the house, tutoring after school, or leading classes on things like art,” she said. While there remains much to be done around the offices of the Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area, the work completed Saturday morning was a great first step towards reaching that goal. “Today has been a pretty successful day. Our teens will appreciate being able to walk around the house and not have to worry about snakes and those sorts of things,” Boswell said.
Commission years with statewide races,” Archer said. “A lot of people don’t understand, but these are all things that we have to do to get ready. Everything is in place and we are set to go.” Archer used the election to make a pitch for his employees. “Day in and day out, my employees work very hard – as hard as anyone if you ask me,” Archer said. “They are on the front lines and work closely with the public. Elections are a very busy, stressful time, but they do whatever it takes to get the job done. I hope that when we move into budget time we can take a look at pay grades and pay schedules to make sure that they are paid
continued from page 1
up there where they are supposed to be.” Voters will pick party nominees for the U.S. Senate seat that was vacated when President Donald Trump selected Jeff Sessions to serve as the U.S. Attorney General. In all there are eight candidates on the Democratic Party ballot: Will Boyd, Vann Caldwell, Jason Fisher, Michael Hansen, Doug Jones, Robert Kennedy, Brian McGee and Charles Nana. There are 10 candidates on the Republican primary ballot and they include: James Beretta, Joseph Breault, Randy Brinson, Mo Brooks, Dom Gentile, Mary Maxwell, Roy Moore, Bryan
Korea just as varied as how the rest of the country feels. Leonard Morse, who served in the 82nd Airborne Division during the time of the Korean War, said the escalation of tensions on the Korean peninsula is enough to get his blood boiling. “I will tell you what, all this wouldn’t be happening if they had let (General Douglas) MacArthur finish the job in 1951,” he said. “He was relieved of his duties? What they should have done is fired Truman and let MacArthur do what needed to be done. If they would have let him do that, we wouldn’t be dealing with this nonsense today.” While telling the story of his two tours of service as a communications specialist with the 24th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army Friday morning, including how he and his unit received a Presidential Unit Citation after defending themselves from an attack by the Communist forces, Charles Traylor offered up his thoughts on North Korea and the war he was a part of. “I’d been over there, I think it was two days, and MacArthur said he was wanting to bomb China,” he said. “Truman pulled him out from over there, said ‘You can’t do that, you’ll start another world war.’ That was one thing he wanted to do, bomb China. You don’t do nothing like that.” In addition, Traylor mentioned how a friend of his was in Korea following the 1953 armistice. While out on patrol, he
Peeples, Trip Pittman and Luther Strange. But the election wasn’t the only item on the agenda for the commissioners. The commissioners approved a move that will give a one-time cost of living adjustment to county retirees who qualify. This comes after the legislature approved a measure during the general session earlier this year. County Administrators said the one-time payment will go to 44 people and range from $300 to $600 depending on the length of service. He estimated the cost to the county being about $20,000 in next year’s budget. The payment was approved by a 4-0-1
vote, with Commissioner George Carleton abstaining because he does fall under that retirement system. Tallapoosa County Emergency Management Agency Director Jason Moran also presented changes to the county’s Emergency Operations Plan. “Every two years we are required to update our Emergency Operations Plan,” Moran said. “That process is done and what you see today is the plan including the changes.” Moran said most of the changes were just language corrections, but did say that some
outdated information on agencies was removed and that hazards like the new Sabal Trail Pipeline were added to the plan. The commissioners approved the updated plan by a 5-0 vote. In other action the commissioners unanimously approved: • The minutes of the July 10 meeting. • The reappointment Melody Ritchie to the Tallapoosa County Department of Human Resources Board. • Payment for the indigent burial of a Tallapoosa County resident. • Seeking of bids for
Highway Department materials like gravel, pipe and other items that are used on a regular basis. • Acceptance of a Justice Assistance Grant of $12,092 that will be split with the City of Alexander City that will help purchase law enforcement equipment. There are no matching funds required. • T.C. Coley to serve on the ACCA legislative committee. • Announced that a ground breaking for the new Department of Human Resources Building will be held on Aug. 28 at 9 a.m.
Plumbing Problem? No Problem!
• On Time Convenience - When you have a busy schedule, you need a plumber that shows up at the agreed time. continued from page 1 stepped on a land mine put in place by the North Koreans and was blown all to pieces, according to Traylor. As tensions continue to rise, Donald Trump and Kim Jong-Un continue to escalate their war of words, with Trump claiming that, should North Korea threaten any American territory or any U.S. ally, they would truly regret such actions. Meanwhile, emergency guidelines have been issued to the service members and their families currently stationed on Guam. As threat piles on top of threat, Morse agreed with Trump’s statements about fire and fury should Kim Jong-Un continue to follow the course of action he has stuck to. “If it were me, every time they tested a missile, I’d bomb them,” Morse said. “I’d make sure they knew who they were dealing with. You do that a few times and I think they’d get the message alright. Force is the only thing a maniac understands.” “He’s (Kim JongUn) just trying to bluff somebody, threatening to shoot that missile at Guam,” Traylor said. “He’s just a hothead. “I don’t think they’re going to shoot no missiles over Guam. If they did, the United States would be putting some missiles on them.” If there’s one thing Traylor does know, however, it’s that another war on the Korean peninsula is not a pleasant thought. He described how brutal
the winters were, so cold in fact that he wrote home for a pair of fur-lined gloves to keep his hands warm in temperatures 20 below zero. In a tent he and several other soldiers lived in, “We had a homemade heater, and we were scared to run it at night. You’d wake up in the morning with frost that deep on the tent,” Traylor said as he marked a line halfway up his thumb. At breakfast, “of course you’d have milk, eggs, cereal, stuff like that. Maybe you’d eat your eggs, a piece of bread, and eat the cereal last. That cereal would be full of chipped ice, froze that quick. Twenty below zero,” he said.
Russell
Medical
• True Choice in Your Hands - The work we do has to be absolutely right for you, your home and your budget. • Care For Your Home - With background checks and drug testing, you can rest assured you and your home are safe. • Upfront Pricing - Have peace of mind knowing the price before any work is started. • Your Home or Business - You get a professional plumber that has been specially trained to serve your every plumbing need from A to Z. Call A&M Plumbing today.
Go to www.amplumbing.net for more, plus get your copy of Interviewing Your Contractor.
(256) 414-4322 Financing Available
Proudly Welcomes .!#+.5ˏ !**! 5ȑˏ ȑˏ $ !*!. (ȑˏ +(+*ˏȖˏ ! 0 (ˏ 1.#!+* 0+ˏ0$!ˏ 1//!((ˏ ! % (ˏ 0 ˚ ȼˏˏ + . ˏ !.0%˛! Ȓˏˏ 1.#!.5ȑˏ +(+*ˏ * ˏ ! 0 (ˏ 1.#!.5 ȼˏˏ ! % (ˏ $++(Ȓˏˏ *%2!./%05ˏ+"ˏ /$%*#0+*ˏ $++(ˏ+"ˏˏ ˏ ˏ ˏ ˏˏˏˏˏˏˏˏ ! % %*!ˏȥˏ ! 00(!ȑˏ ȼˏˏ !/% !* 5Ȓˏˏ *%2!./%05ˏ+"ˏ %/ +*/%*ˏȥˏ %/+*ȑˏ ȼˏˏ !((+3/$%,Ȓˏˏ *%2!./%05ˏ+"ˏ %/ +*/%*ˏȥˏ %/+*ȑˏ ˏ ˏ 5+ˏ (%*% ˏȥˏ + $!/0!.ȑˏ ˏ
ˏ 1.#!.5ˏ (%*% ˏ 0ˏ 1//!((ˏ ! % (ȥˏ 1%0!ˏȇȅȍ ȈȈȌȎˏ 35ˏȇȎȅˏ (!4 * !.ˏ %05ȑˏ ˏȼˏˏˏȇȋȌȥȇȆȋȥȍȊȍȏ 333Ȑ.1//!(( .!/Ȑ +) ˏˏˏˏ
MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213
editor@alexcityoutlook.com
EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 4
Our
Opinion
There is no room in the world for hate
T
here are no words strong enough to properly condemn the vile ideology of the white supremacists who converged on Charlottesville this weekend. That kind of thought process should never be tolerated even if there hadn’t been violence, chaos and death as a result of their gathering. So what should happen next? It was always tempting to ignore extremists, lest we give them the attention they crave. What happened in Charlottesville, though, is too big an event to be ignored. Regardless of how you look at this, it didn’t have to happen this way. This all started because a statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee was to be moved. At a time when the legislature here in Alabama passed a law that will protect historic monuments, Confederate and otherwise, you can embrace heritage without violence and acting like drunken fools. What happened to spirited discussion? If Confederate monuments become lightning rods for modernday white supremacists, they will come to mean only one thing, and then they will come down — just as the Confederate battle flag came down from the South Carolina statehouse after the mass murder in a Charleston church by a man who posed with such an emblem. That’s why those who support such statues need to distance themselves from extremists. They are doing more harm than good. You can disagree without hate and violence. It has happened throughout the ages. The white nationalists who marched in Charlottesville chanting “you will not replace us” resent the demographic changes that are turning the United States into a country that is less white and more ethnically diverse. Some talk openly of fomenting a “race war.” There is no room or place for that kind of hate anywhere. Years ago, there was a Virginian who had something powerful to say about how we respond to a changing world. “I think it the duty of every citizen ... to do all in his power to aid in the restoration of peace and harmony.” Who said that? Robert E. Lee, in the summer of 1865.
Outlook The
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Gov. Ivey changes stance on state superintendent
U
nfortunately , Governor Kay Ivey is now playing politics with our children. Three weeks ago she said she did not know enough about the performance of state school chief Mike Sentance to join state board members in evaluating him. (By virtue of her office, she is president of the state board.) However, she issued a statement on Aug. 10 supporting Sentance and urging the board to give him more time. Since it is highly unlikely that in that short time span she became intimately familiar with Sentance’s record, apparently her August 10 statement was motivated more by politics than a real concern for public school students. This is sad, especially considering that she was once a teacher herself. Here is what she had to say: “Today, the elected Alabama State Board of Education delayed the question of the State Superintendent’s continued leadership of the State Department of Education. “Mr. Sentance has been on the job for less than a year, and in that time, has advocated many necessary reforms. Though he is certainly not without fault, I trust that the Board will give him time to implement those reforms. “Rather than focusing on differences of personality or opinion, we must focus on Alabama’s children and improving the quality of education provided across our state.” Two things jump out of this brief statement.
LARRY LEE Columnist
Number one is that there was no delay of the question about Mike Sentence’s leadership. This was not on the meeting agenda. Since the governor is president of the state school board, maybe she should attend some meetings so she will know what is going on. (Governor Ivey took office on April 10, 2017. There have been ten state board meetings since then. She briefly attended one on April 13. Her attendance is no different than Governor Robert Bentley who missed 90 percent of the meetings.) Secondly, what or where are the reforms she mentions? Sentance’s time as state superintendent has been repeatedly marked by controversy. He has gone out of his way to downgrade Alabama teachers. He has attacked highly successful programs such as Career Tech, Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI) and Alabama Math & Science Initiative (AMSTI). He has repeatedly failed to communicate with the board that hired him. He has been quick to hire consultants and sixfigure administrators. He sought an Attorney General’s opinion that would prevent the state board from questioning him about money being spent on his Montgomery County schools’ intervention. Because
of his total lack of administrative experience, the working atmosphere at the state department is considered “toxic” by many who work there. The process that brought him to Alabama was seriously flawed and has led to pending civil action against a board member and four former and present employees. There has even been a legislative investigation into these shenanigans. Sentence asked for an internal investigation of this process and when the report said that there was “collusion” to taint the search process, he took issue with the staff attorney he assigned to do the report. The governor studied education in college and is a former teacher, unlike Sentence who has no formal training to be an educator and has never been a teacher, principal or local school superintendent. But suddenly our almost brand-new governor says this is who she wants to lead our 730,000 student public education system? For way too long we have let too many decisions about education be driven by a political agenda — rather than a children’s agenda. We were hoping this would change with Governor Ivey. But her statement of Aug. 10 loudly says it will not. Larry Lee is a public school advocate and co-author of the study, Lessons Learned From Rural Schools. Larrylee133@gmail.com
Mark Tuggle (R) represents the 81st District covering Coosa, Chilton and Tallapoosa counties. He can be reached by phone at 256-392-2006 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 to the Alabama Senate on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334242-t7865. His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn.
alexcityoutlook.com
Daily Poll Weekend Question: Do you volunteer in the community?
No — 54%, 26 votes Yes — 38%, 18 votes No, but I plan to — 8%, 4 votes
Tuesday Question: Do you think President Trump responded well to this weekend’s violence in Charlottesville, VA? 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.
Opinion?
We’d like to share your thoughts and opinions with the greater Lake Martin community. It’s free and it only takes a few moments of your time. We have two ways to get your opinion in print: letters to the editor and guest columns. The main difference is length. Letters to the editor are up to 250 words, while guest columns can be up to 500 words. Letters and columns may be sent to P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011, faxed to (256) 234-6550 or e-mailed to editor@ alexcityoutlook.com. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send us your thoughts today!
Letter to the Editor
Don’t we all need prayers?
Dear Editor,
Tom Whatley
“...those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” —Romans 8:14
What’s your
Kay Ivey
Mark Tuggle
Scripture
Subscribe
Officials
Steve Marshall
Today’s
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.
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.
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.
Quote
“If you don’t make mistakes, you’re not working on hard enough problems.” —Frank Wilczek
How to
Know Your
Governor Kay Ivey represents the state of Alabama and its 67 counties. She was sworn into 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.
Today’s
Please tell me someone you might know that doesn’t need prayers? I sure don’t believe there is anyone in the world that doesn’t at one time or the other in their life. My opinion, even the Atheist would ask for prayer. They may not admit it but feel it so. Something bad happens in their lives and believe the first one they would call on would be the Good Lord. Should not be an embarrassing thing for one
to ask someone to pray for them or a prayer request. God hears and answers prayers, however, I believe it is in His own way and His own time, not always how we humans may want them answered. God is always just in His answers, for He can see ahead, whereas we can’t. He tells us in 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sin and heal
their land.” How hard is it to pray for Israel, Jerusalem, our leaders, city, county, state and federal. We may not have voted for them or even like them, yet they sure need our prayers. I feel every living thing does. It is never too late, shall we try it? God will only tarry so long. Sure pray we think about it. God Bless America, land that I love and all in it. Margaret Aldridge Dadeville
Follow us
On the Web
Follow The Outlook on the Internet on our website or on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Log on to http://www. alexcityoutloook. com. There you will be able to view stories and multimedia posted by The Outlook. You can also click on the Facebook link to join The Outlook’s fan club or click on the Twitter link to start receiving tweets on your phone as we post updates. You can also subscribe to our RSS (Rich Site Summary) feed on the Outlook’s home page. Check it out today.
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Page 5
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
All About The Sport Of Running
Word Find
Running is a sport that is enjoyed by many people. Running can take place on a track or across grassy terrain. Short-distance running is called sprinting, and long-distance running is called cross-country running. Some people run just for the enjoyment, while others train to be in competitions. One of the most common race distances is the 5k, or 5 kilometers (3.2 miles.) A 5k race is held almost every weekend in YDULRXV FLWLHV 7KHUH DUH PDQ\ GLႇHUHQW GLVWDQFHV WKDW SHRSOH WUDLQ WR UXQ WKH ORQJHVW UDFH LV WKH PDUDthon. A marathon is a race that is 26 miles and 385 yards long. It is named after the Ancient Greek City of Marathon where legend states that a runner by the name of Pheidippides ran the 26 miles from Marathon WR $WKHQV WR WHOO WKH FLW\ WKDW WKH\ KDG ZRQ WKH ZDU ZLWK WKH 3HUVLDQV ,Q WKH ¿UVW PDUDWKRQ ZDV UXQ LQ WKH 2O\PSLFV ,Q WKH ¿UVW %RVWRQ 0DUDWKRQ ZDV KHOG ,W KDV EHHQ DQ DQQXDO WUDGLWLRQ VLQFH 5XQQLQJ can be a single-athlete sport or a team sport. Teams that run together in the same race are called Relays. Each runner (usually four) runs a portion of the race. A baton is passed from one runner to the next to VLJQDO WKH HQG RI WKHLU OHJ RI WKH UDFH :KHQ UXQQLQJ DOZD\V UHPHPEHU WR SUDFWLFH VDIHW\ ¿UVW 0DNH VXUH you are healthy enough to be running. Never run alone and never at night, even with a buddy. Make sure WKDW \RX VWD\ DZD\ IURP WUDႈF GULQN ORWV RI ZDWHU XVH VXQVFUHHQ DQG VWUHWFK \RXU PXVFOHV ERWK EHIRUH DQG DIWHU
Running Crossword
Runner’s Maze Athens, Baton, Buddy, Coach, Cross Country, Distance, Exercise, Hobby, Marathon, Olympics, Practice, Race, Relay, Running, Safety, Sport, Sprinting, Stretch, Train, Water
Connect The Dots
Across Clues: 1. A long distance run. 4. Race that is 26 miles. 6. Passed in a relay race. 7. Ran the original marathon. 8. A running competition. Down Clues: 2. Running short distances is _______. 3. Always follow ___ rules. 5. First marathon, in 1896, was in which competition? 6. Famous annual marathon started in 1897. 8. Group race is called this.
Crossword Ans: Across-1)distance 4) marathon 6)baton 7) Pheidippides 8)race Down-2)sprinting 3) safety 5)Olympics 6) %RVWRQ UHOD\
A Special Thank You To All Our Sponsors! Marina: 256.825.6871 Chuckwalla’s Pizza: 256.825.7733
Town & Country Cleaners
And Shoe Repair
1222 Cherokee Road 212-9600
For Music Schedule And Events Check Us Out On Facebook LIVE MUSIC FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS
HOURS: Monday-Friday 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - Noon
RED FLAG PEST Serving Central Alabama CONTROL
Rhodes Brothers
Construction, Inc.
256-825-8913 Cell: 256-675-0217
XFully Licensed and Insured X Custom New Homes X Commercial and Residential
TALLASSEE
IVER U N S
D E E P
256.825.0430
Hwy. 280 • Jackson’s Gap www.redflagpestcontrol.com
256-329-0500 www.riverbankandtrust.com
Brown Nursing Home
www.tallasseeautomotive.com
137 Franklin Street Alexander City, AL
256.794.5185
3701 Dadeville Road, Alexander City ( 256 ) 234-6366 Rehab• Long-Term Care• Assisted Living
S TEVE K ING , S R . P ASTOR Court Square, Alexander City • 256-234-6351• www.fbc-ac.org
ZAJAC’S THOMAS AUTO PARTS
AUTO COLLISION, INC.
793 Airport Road Alexander City, AL
256.329.9963
• Automotive Parts • Machine Shop Services • Paint & Body Supplies • Hydraulic Hose Assemblies
AUTO PARTS
150 Green Street • Alexander City • 256.234.5023 157 E. South Street • Dadeville • 256.825.4155
8:00-4:00 Mon.-Fri • By Appt.(Except Emergencies) 256-234-4295 • After Hours 256-329-7100
Temple Medical Clinic, P.C. YOUR FAMIY CARE CENTER Medicine, Office Surgery, Pediatric, & Industrial James P. Temple, M.D. • Timothy J. Cordin, M.D. Vincent Law, M.D.
859 Airport Drive • Alexander City, AL
Coming Soon! The Community Center “Emergency Center for Shelter, Counseling and Job Placement” 8805 Alabama Hwy. 259 | Alexander City, AL 256.794.1519
(In need of volunteers, please call Lonnie Mace for more details)
SOCIAL SECURITY
FAYE EDMONDSON
ZAXBY’S 4497 Hwy. 280 •Alexander City, AL (256) 234-2181 Hours: Fri. & Sat. 10:30-11:00
Sun. - Thurs. 10:30-9:00
Currently available only at Zaxby’s store locations. Zaxby’s gift cards can be used at all Zaxby’s store locations.
New & Used Boats • Yamaha Waverunners Yamaha Golf Carts • Full-Service Marina & Service Center • Wet Slips & Dry Storage
256.357.2045
800.780.2045
DADEVILLE HEALTHCARE CENTER Kim Russell, Administrator 385 E. LaFayette St., Dadeville 256.825.9244
Alex City Internal Medicine & Nephrology Also dba...
256-825-2100
Weight Loss Center 256-409-1500
10973 County Road 34, Dadeville www.kelleyshvac.com • AL License #99129
3368 Hwy. 280 Suite 220 [ Alexander City, AL Connected to Russell Medical Center in the Professional Bldg. on the 2nd Floor in Suite 220
FAITH CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
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
256-234-6421
w w w. f a i t h t e m p l e . u s
135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL
ARMSTRONG-HOLLEY
825-9559
“We Touch the Lives of the People You Love”
(256) 329-0847 1555 Hillabee Street • Alexander City
Attorney at Law 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.
(256) 329-1018
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.
Adam’s Health & Rehab We Care About You And Your Loved Ones!
PEST CONTROL
652 Cherokee Road Alexander City
STEFUL GIFT IDEA . A TA
DOWEE WEDOWEE MARINE WE 21130 Hwy. 431 MARINE Wedowee, AL
PHOTOGR APHY
2334 Washington St. Alexander City, AL 35010 Phone: (256) 329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
Drive a Little, Save a Lot! 1618 Gilmer Ave. | Tallassee, AL | 334-262-2544
Has your home been inspected lately?
BANK & TRUST S E RV I C E
AUTOMOTIVE
SECURITY
W
256/234-6355 Eat At . . .
PLUMBING
WE SPECIALIZE IN COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL PLUMBING!
256-392-3809 OFFICE 256-794-0777 CELL
1900 Columbus Pkwy., Opelika, AL 36801
New & Used Modular and Manufactured Homes
334.749.7048 4 a f r e e d o m h o m e . c o m / 8 21
6684 HWY. 49 SOUTH • DADEVILLE, AL (256) 825-4827
Page 6
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
PULSE
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Our Community, Our Readers, Your Chamber
Chamber reaches out to members for support By KIM DUNN Chamber Director of Marketing and Special Events We have exciting news on the horizon here at the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. We will soon be initiating our inaugural Total Resource Campaign (TRC). The Chamber is always looking for new ways to add value for our members and better serve the business community. Part of that mission means connecting with as many of our members as we can, offering them new and targeted ways to connect with their colleagues and support the Chamber’s efforts. That’s why the Chamber is launching the Cruise Into New Heights Campaign.
Chamber to host ‘Leadership Agility’ workshop
The campaign, running through early November, is being led by Chairman John Russell Thomas, Director and Vice Chairman of the Board, USAmeriBank, as well as three vice chairs: Dr. Susan Burrow, President, Central Alabama Community College; Jim Peace, CEO, Russell Medical; and Tom Lamberth, President & CEO, Russell Lands On Lake Martin. The campaign is a re-imagined approach to offering sponsorship and advertising opportunities to Chamber members. While the campaign will be beneficial for the Chamber in allowing us to expand our services and add new
offerings, there are also numerous benefits for members: • Increased opportunities for members to gain exposure among Chamber membership and stakeholder • Increased return on investment for member organizations by offering higherprofile visibility in Chamber marketing tools, events and programming • Opportunities to participate for members that traditionally have been put off by a perceived cost barrier to entry “We hope that members—especially our small business members—will see this campaign as an opportunity to get more involved in the programs they feel
Chamber gets A GIFT TO GATEWAY new home By CARLA CULLIGAN Membership Director and Customer Service
By JACOB MEACHAM VP — Business Development
The Alexander City Chamber of Commerce will host The University of Alabama’s College of Continuing Studies “Bama at Work” program to present a professional development workshop on the topic of Leadership Agility. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, August 23 from 11 am until 1 p.m. at the Lake Martin Innovation Center. Attendance is $20 and includes lunch along with the presentation designed to help leaders create a culture of innovation, collaboration and strategic visioning with their organizations. Space is limited to the first 40 RSVPs. To sign up, call the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce at 256-749-6056 or email kim.dunn@alexandercitychamber.com. Throughout the workshop, participants will learn the importance of strategic visioning, strategic agility and anticipating change. It will also focus on applying these skills to generate confidence, initiate action, liberate thinking and evaluate results within the organization you’re a part of or lead. The workshop will be led by Dr. Robert K. Prescott, who has spent 20 years in industry and 16 years in teaching and consulting positions. He is currently Director of Corporate See WORKSHOP • Page 7
most connected with,” said Chamber Director of Marketing and Special Events, Kim Dunn. “We’re also able to ask for a year’s worth of support all at once, rather than making multiple asks throughout the year. At the same time, the revenue from this campaign will allow the Chamber to expand and enhance services into identified areas of need.” The campaign will officially kick off on Tuesday, September 19. If you or any of your employees want to participate in the TRC, let us know. And if someone from the TRC contacts you, give him or her a listen. They’re going to have lots of new sponsorship opportunities to discuss.
Submitted / The Outlook
The Alexander City Kiwanis Club recently made a donation to the Gateway to Education Scholarship Program. Pictured left to right are Dr. Darrell Cooper, Cecily Lee, Tammy Jackson, Ed Collari, Marvin Wagoner, Scott Blake, Randy Dawkins, Carla Culligan and Margaret Jones.
Organization looks for community support By ED COLLARI Alexander City Chamber of Commerce President
Anyone involved in economic development will admit that one of the key ingredients to a prosperous community is a successful education system. That is why it is the Chamber of Commerce’s great honor to continue the legacy of those who laid the foundation of the Gateway to Education Scholarship Program. Established in 2002, Gateway continues to guarantee our young people the assurance of a college education. A specific purpose of the Gateway
Foundation is to serve as an economic development initiative by providing an educated and well-qualified workforce. For those who are not familiar, Gateway provides up to 64 credit hours of free college tuition to Benjamin Russell High School graduating seniors as well as private school and home school graduates who reside in the Alexander City school district. The free tuition is available to students attending Central Alabama Community College. One of our main goals at the Chamber is to attract and specifically retain our See GATEWAY • Page 7
If you have not had a chance to visit us at our new home located at 175 Aliant Parkway, let this serve as your invitation. The chamber is housed inside the Lake Martin Innovation Center, which is located behind the main branch of US Ameribank on Highway 280. The Chamber has plenty of workspace, technology, and the same great opportunities we have always provided, just with more space. Stop by at your convenience and enjoy a coffee or a complimentary drink while I give you a tour. Our new facility has two conference rooms equipped with state of the art technology that is available to all chamber members. If you are not already a chamber member, it is a great time to join. The chamber provides a voice for our business community and a bridge between our local and state government. Membership dues vary depending on the number of people your business has employed. We have special rates for individuals, churches, clubs and associations. All members are listed on the www. alexandercitychamber.com website, published in the South’s Best Kept Secret New Comer’s Magazine, receives newsletters on a weekly basis, has opportunity to promote events on our social media and in weekly newsletter. All members are part of the chamber referral system, have free access to notary service and much, much more. Our office is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and Friday until 4:00 pm. Give us a call at 256-234-3461 or stop by for a visit so we can discuss how chamber membership can benefit your business.
What is Lake Martin Young Professionals? By JACOB MEACHAM VP — Business Development
One of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce programs that I work closely with is the Lake Martin Young Professionals. Since around September of 2015, LMYP has officially been a Chamber program after being around for several years prior and being led a small group of volunteers. Since I’m so involved with LMYP, both personally and professionally, I often get asked about it. The main question being, “What is Lake Martin Young Professionals?” So, with that question in mind, and with the group approaching the two-year mark being an official Chamber program, I thought I’d try to answer that question and provide an update on what the group has been up to. Let’s start with the name. Lake Martin Young Professionals. The “Lake Martin” part should be pretty obvious! It’s where we are. In an attempt to be more inclusive of the entire area, rather than just Alexander City, I think that part of the name pretty accurately describes, geographically at least, where we focus our efforts, where we have events and where our membership and participants are drawn from. Young Professionals. YP groups are pretty common in
cities throughout Alabama and across the United States. Auburn has one. Birmingham has one. Tuscaloosa, Mobile and Huntsville all have YP groups. Right up the road, Sylacauga has launched a YP group. Cullman has a YP group. I’m sure there are plenty of others, but the point is that they’re widely spread and generally have the same mission and goals, which is to provide young people an outlet to organize and do positive things for their respective communities. Although the name is pretty specific using words like “young” and “professional,” I can say with one hundered percent certainty that our local YP group doesn’t exclude anyone from being a part of what we do, no matter your age or profession. Scan the list of active YP members and you’ll see people ranging from their early twenties to retired. We like to say age is a number and young is a mindset. As far as professional, as I said above, I think the group’s name just mirrors the name of similar groups in other places to be part of a recognizable and established brand. But it doesn’t limit individuals from being involved because of their line of work or their profession. There are professional everythings. Professional
wrestlers, professional athletes, professional plumbers, professional equipment operators, professional landscapers, professional bankers, professional nurses, professional office assistants, professionals such as doctors, lawyers and engineers, professional truck drivers, you name it. I would argue that if you get up and go to work, you’re a professional something. And as I mentioned already, we have active participants and even paying members that don’t work at all. The only qualification that I think really matters is that you’re interested in seeing Alexander City and the Lake Martin area be a great place to live, work, go to school, raise a family and have fun, with an overarching theme of allowing young people to steer the group’s direction and lead. So, what is Lake Martin Young Professionals and who is it for? It’s for anyone really, but mostly younger people are involved with the group. We do different things throughout the community to try and make it a fun and engaging place to live. We try to accomplish that mostly through events that are fun/social in nature and through supporting local groups or charities through See LMYP • Page 7
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Page 7
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
PULSE
Our Community, Our Readers, Your Chamber
Submitted / The Outlook
Dairy Queen has grand opening, ribbon cutting Dairy Queen opened for business on June 28. Chamber officials and local community members celebrate the grand opening with a ribbon cutting alongside the brand new Dairy Queen employees.
Gateway
Submitted / The Outlook
River Bank & Trust opens doors River Bank & Trust celebrated their grand opening & ribbon cutting on June 8. The new business is located at 3617 US Hwy. 280 in Alexander City.
Chamber welcomes Webb as new employee By KAY WEBB Alexander City Chamber Staff
in the community. I really could not have envisioned a better way to accomplish that objective! Hi! My name is Kay Webb Every day brings in new faces and I am the new face at the from Alexander City and the front desk of the Lake Martin surrounding area. We have a great Innovation Center and the group of business start-ups and Alexander City Chamber of co-working partners that I have the Commerce. My husband and I good fortune to know and interact Webb recently retired to Lake Martin with on a daily basis. Perhaps best after living in Atlanta for 25 of all was the opportunity to assist years. We wanted to come back home and with this year’s Sun Festival, which be near our families in Montgomery and was an amazing community effort. To Birmingham. I had been the Registrar for meet and work with all the wonderful Mercer University for the past 15 years, volunteers from Alexander City was very and worked in higher education for a rewarding, and fun to boot! total of 35 years. After getting settled in Please drop by and let me show you and finishing some major projects that around our beautiful new state of the art I wanted to complete once I retired, I Lake Martin Innovation Center. I’ll even started looking for a way to get involved treat you to a cup of gourmet coffee.
young talent. Maintaining an educated and skilled workforce helps existing businesses blossom and plays a vital role in attracting new business and industry to our area. Gateway also assists with reducing the number of young people leaving the area while increasing access to higher education. But to be able to maintain the feasibility of Gateway, we need continual support from the community. Whether through fundraisers by civic group like the Alexander City Kiwanis,
continued from page 1
who recently donated $3,000 to Gateway or contributions from the community, businesses or private citizens, we do need financial support. In the 2016-17 school year alone, the Gateway Foundation paid over $129,000 in student tuition at Central Alabama Community College. That is a significant amount, but one we think is an investment in our young people and the future of our community. In the upcoming months, the Gateway Foundation will be
Workshop Engagement in the College of Continuing Studies at the University of Alabama. Most recently, Dr. Prescott was Graduate Faculty of Management at the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College in
making a push for contributions to ensure the longevity of the program. One option is to continue to partner with the City to allow citizens to make a small donation through their utility bill. Every dollar counts! We will also be researching and discussing other avenues to generate funds for this program as well so share any ideas you may have. Your gift will go a long way in helping sustain this program and ensuring higher education for students in the Alexander City school district.
continued from page 1
Winter Park, Florida. For 15 years, Dr. Prescott was responsible for teaching graduate level courses in the Executive Doctorate, MBA and Masters of Human Resources (MHR) programs. His personal teaching,
consulting and research focuses on all aspects of strategic and agile leadership, organization behavior human resource management, training and development, and enterprise consulting.
NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS • AIDB Senior Services – 1209 Fort Lashley, Talladega, AL 35160 256-761-3575 or 256-7613639 • Bill’s Just-N-Time - P.O. Box 1876, Alexander City, AL 35010 256-794-5522 • D & A Investments, LLC – P.O. Box 901, Alexander City, AL 35011
205-585-3271 • Dairy Queen – Fourteen Foods – 3143 Hwy 280, Alexander City, AL 35010 256-496-0404 • Mary Kay – Alexander City, AL 35010 256-794-9885 or 256-6756995 • Ocie & Belle’s – 41 Main Street, Alexander City, AL 35010
256-392-5139 • Spacewalk of Alexander City – Alexander City, AL 35010 256-750-1546 • YGM Total Resource Campaign – 6117 Valley Forge Drive, Rogers, AR 72758 318-294-2717
LMYP fundraising and volunteering. We do have a $25 annual membership that helps us do the things mentioned above and provide a small financial base to help us operate. What do we do? If mission statements are your sort of thing, we have one: Lake Martin Young Professionals is a group that coordinates, collaborates and promotes events around Lake Martin that are social, volunteer or informational in nature. We try to connect young residents of the Lake Martin Area with activities that will help to improve the careers, social lives and character of our members. A mission statement, though, is about as good as the paper it’s written on. So, a better answer to the question of what we do would be better explained by telling you exactly what we’ve done with a recap of our history as an official Chamber program. September 2015: Officially organized a 16-person board with volunteer leadership and
continued from page 1
established YP as a program of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. October 2015: Inaugural YP Halloween Party benefitting the Cancer Center at Russell Medical. $800 donated through funds raised at the Halloween Party at JR’s Sports Bar & Grill. Having fun while supporting a local business and the fantastic work done by our local Cancer Center. November 2015: LMYP Relaunch event at USAmeriBank featuring Alabama House of Representatives member Mark Tuggle to share information related to state and local government and hear concerns of event attendees. January 2016: Inaugural LMYP Polar Plunge at Kowaliga Restaurant benefiting the Lake Martin Resource Association. Donated $3,000 to LMRA to help their efforts in keeping the Lake Martin area clean, safe and prosperous. Again, supporting a local business, raising funds for
a local non-profit and having a great time in the process April 2016: LMYP Trash Clean Up. LMYP took part in the county-wide effort to help clean area roads and highways of litter and debris. Summer 2016: Strand Sessions – 5 months of free live music in downtown Alexander City’s Strand Park on the first Thursday of the month. August 2016: Alexander City Mayoral Debate. LMYP hosted candidates running for Mayor of Alexander City for a debate/ forum at Central Alabama Community College that was aired live on local TV and radio. Attended by 300+ members of the local community to help guide their decision in electing the city’s leader. October 2016: Second Annual LMYP Halloween Party at Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast benefiting the Cancer Center at Russell Medical. A second go-around with the Halloween party, this time more
successful than the first, raising $1000 for the Cancer Center. January 2017: Second Annual LMYP Polar Plunge at Kowaliga Restaurant benefiting the Lake Martin Resource Association, this time raising $5,000 to support their efforts. Spring/Summer 2017: Strand Sessions – 5 months of free live music in downtown Alexander City’s Strand Park on the first Thursday of the month. There were plenty of other things sprinkled in along the way, such as trivia nights, membership socials, meet and greets, and volunteering. We have plenty more in store in the coming months with our annual Halloween Party just around the corner and the Polar Plunge soon to follow, plus other volunteer/ community service opportunities and supporting the Lake Martin area in many other ways. In addition to those activities, we’ll be rolling out some new events in 2018 that we hope will continue providing fun things to
do and opportunities to become engaged in the local community. Interested in learning more? We’d love to have you be a part of the group. Our next event is a YP Membership Social on Sunday, August 20 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Alexander City’s newest pub, Ocie & Belle’s. It will be a great opportunity to come have some fun, mix and mingle, and learn a little bit about what we have going on. The event is presented by Distinct Home Inspection and will feature 2 hours of live music by Jonathan Bloom. YP Members will receive 2 free drinks (redeemable drink tickets will be available on-site for current, renewing or new members). The LMYP Board is: John Howell (President), Emily McDaniel (First Vice Pres.), Stephan Tomlin (Second Vice Pres.), Scott Hardy (Past Pres.), Deidra Baird, Tony Blanco, Adam Blankenship, Justin Clayton, Lacey Howell, Mark Gilliland, Mathieu Nader, Jessica Sanford, Kevin Speaks, Michelle West and Mark Worthy.
Page 8
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
The Outlook
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 9
Page 10
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 11
The Outlook
CommunityCalendar Today is
August 15, 2017 Today’s Event
Hardwood Floors Ceramic Tile Carpet & Vinyl
BUDGET HEARING: The Alexander City Board of Education
will hold the first public budget hearing Tuesday, August 15 at 5 p.m. at 375 Lee Street in Alexander City.
Today’s Anniversaries
Josh and Erica Sammons and Bobby and Judy Musick are celebrating anniversaries today.
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
Markus Billups, Donna Jean Baker, Crystal Starr, Martha Moe, Airona Ford, Carl Watts, Merle Schubert, Demetrois Blackmon, Annie Lauderdale, Melissa Fuller, Charlene Nicholson, Haley Thomas, Jeremy Forbus, Miranda Vick and Rhoshanda Russell are celebrating birthdays today.
Tony Guy, Owner Over 40 Years Experience
H&A Installation, Charge Outs and Repair Sheet Metal Work
FREE Estimates on NEW installations
Locally Owned for Over 45 Years
Service a 30 mile radius of Alexander City
256-234-6071
1945 Hwy 280 • Alexander City
H
Licensed and Bonded #:84887 guysheating@live.com
OLMAN
F
LOOR
256–234–4198
C
OMPANY
196 Thompson Ridge Road Alexander City, AL
“WE’RE THE PROFESSIONALS”
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
The Alexander City Fire Department responded to a garage fire in the Cross Creek subdivision Monday afternoon. No one was injured and damage was limited mainly to smoke.
Today - August 20
AL 96175
CARLISLE HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 367 US H W Y . 280 A L E X A N D E R C I T Y , AL
256-234-0019 CA RLISLE AC.COM
Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation
CHRISTIAN GENERAL ASSEMBLY: New Covenant Ministries of the World, Inc. is hosting its annual Christian General Assembly themed “Principles and Doctrine for the Perfecting of the Saints,” August 14-20 at the Liberty Life Center at 243 S Street in Alexander City. Daily at 9 a.m. there will be a prayer breakfast, 11:30 a.m. a seminar on Holy Bible research and at 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday will be a worship and praise service with a speaker. Sunday, Aug. 20 is is Climax Day with Chief Apostle W.T. Traylor.
PRESCRIPTION ASSISTANCE: Senior Rx Coordinator Deborah Jones with the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind is helping to see if persons are eligible for assistance with diabetic supplies, liquid supplements and medications August 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Alex City Chamber of Commerce. Please call 1-800-361-1636 to set an appointment.
Friday, August 18
GOSPEL SINGING: Bay Pine Baptist Church is hosting Brian Free and Assurance Aug. 18 at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome. YARD SALE: Marshall Street Church is August 16-18 hosting a yard and bake sale Friday, August REVIVAL SERVICES: Macedonia 18 from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday, August Missionary Baptist Church in Goodwater will be hosting revival services Aug. 16-18 19 from 6 a.m. to noon in the Family Life Center. All proceeds go to the building fund. at 7 p.m. nightly. The theme is “Wake Up” with revival evangelist Pastor E. Tramaine Solomon of Springhill Baptist Church in Lineville. Melvin Ervin is pastor of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church.
Thursday, August 17
Need Insurance? Call me.
Rehabilitation Services
August 18-19
WOMEN’S CONFERENCE: The Just Believe Women’s Conference will be Aug. 18 and 19 at Passion Church on Highway 63 North. Friday will start at 7 p.m. and Saturday
dB
Lawn Care Darrell Brooks, Owner Cutting •Edging Weed Eating •Mulch Weed Control
•Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy
Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing
–Since 1978–
BIG “B” BAR-B-QUE “We Cook The Best BETTER!”
Hickory Grilled Meat BBQ • STEAK CHICKEN • CATFISH
Hwy. 22 West, Alexander City, AL
256.234.3481 KarenChannell.com
256.267.0518
Saturday, August 19
SOAP BOX DERBY: Dadeville’s Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby Race and Festival is August 19 at 1 p.m. Volunteers are needed to help with plans and set up. Help make this a great day for children. Deadline for entry is August 5. Call Marrell Ward at 256-496-0339 with questions. The festival will start at 10 a.m. with inflatables, musicians, vendors, bass casting, horseshoe, cornhole and more. YARD SALE: The Ladies of the Elks will host their annual yard sale August 19 from 6 to 11 a.m. MUSTER ON THE TALLAPOOSA: Horseshoe Bend National Military Park is hosting a Muster on the Tallapoosa August 19 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with Creek hunting camps, cannon firing, militia and musket drills, wool spinning and dyeing and more. There is a shaded picnic area with charcoal grills, tables and pavilions available.
256.329.9996
2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
Come Visit Us!
at 10:30 a.m. for a time of fellowship and inspiring testimonies.
PRECIOUS MEMORIES
The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow
The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for Weekend Shifts in Direct Care. 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
SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
GIFTS & MORE Monogramming Boutique CClothing lothing Jewelry Bathing SSuits uits & More More
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700
10147 County Road 34 Dadeville, AL
256-496-4017
haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com
Page 12
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
www.alexcityoutlook.com
LUKE ROBINSON Columnist
Nick Saban is unquestionably the best
I
t’s sad testament to the times, but I feel obligated to write this article every year. So, Auburn fans (if you have even made it this far), you miiiiiiight want to quit reading … now! That’s right; it’s my annual “We-are-in-themidst-of-the-greatest-run-of-any-college-coachever-so-Alabama-fans-better-soak-it-in” article. I mentioned it’s sad I even have to bring this fact up, but I must simply because an article on CBSsports.com had some random poll where several anonymous college coaches responded by ranking Nick Saban the second most overrated coach in the game. As my 10-year-old daughter would say, “You jelly? Yeah, you jelly….” Jealously is the only answer as to why someone would call Saban overrated. That’s the only logical explanation. “But… but… Florida in 2008 and Auburn in 2010 and LSU in 2011 and Texas A&M in 2012 and Auburn in 2013 and Ohio State in 2015 and Clemson in 2017…and….and Ole Miss two straight years!” Yep, everyone one of those losses happened. I can’t deny that. However, four of those teams went on to win the national title in those years. Three of them had Heisman winners on their squads. One had the most improbable play in college football history. One of them was whipped soundly in a rematch for all the marbles and another, as it turned out, had the two best rookies in the NFL two years later. Oh, and Ole Miss? Yeah, they are under an NCAA microscope right now for illegal benefits to players. Oh, and the point differential in those aforementioned losses? It was a scant 39 points — total — among all eight games! That’s ridiculous. “But… but… The Miami Dolphins debacle and stuff!” Yeah, Saban went 9-7 and 6-10 in two seasons. Hardly disastrous by NFL standards. Nope, he didn’t set the pro football world on fire, but if you don’t have a quarterback in the NFL, you don’t have a chance. Meanwhile, it should also be noted the owner didn’t push Saban out; Saban just left for Alabama. “But… but… He only wins because he recruits better than everyone!” He sure does. And recruiting is a huge part of coaching. It’s like baking: without good ingredients, you can bake your butt off and still have a pastry not fit for a gas station vending machine. Here is what people don’t discuss though: While it’s true on any given year several good (not great) coaches could guide any given Alabama team between the years of 2008 and 2016 to 10 or more wins, it’s Saban ability to sustain greatness that sets him apart from the norm. Take Larry Coker for example: He walked into a semi-pro situation at the University of Miami and won it all year one. After that title, the ’Canes program slowly eroded as it was abundantly clear Coker was in over his head. He could not sustain the greatness. It’s tough to and rarely is a team a contender year after year after year. Coaches who have stacked rosters don’t necessarily have it easy you see; they have to deal with monster players’ egos and boosters who demand you speak to their Touchdown Clubs at their beck and call. Plus, opponents are always circling your team as the game on their schedule. The spotlight cooks a lot of good coaches in great situations. Only a great coach can keep it great. Of course, there are the other attributes and accolades. In fact, Saban has compiled more records than a pawn shop in the ’70’s. For instance: • Taking the Tide to all three College Football Playoffs so far • Recruiting UA’s only two Heisman winners (and having Sports Illustrated’s projected winner for this season in Jalen Hurts) • Four national titles • Five SEC titles and six SEC divisional crowns • Alabama has been ranked number one at some point for ten straight seasons under Saban. Ten. Straight. • ’Bama has been number one for 58 weeks since 2008. The second most is Florida with 15. • 43 All Americans including 16 unanimous selections • Since ’08, Alabama has a point differential versus LSU of 86. Against Auburn of 156. Against Tennessee 208. Versus Arkansas 228. • All while playing in the unquestioned best league in college football. Then there are numerous other awards and achievements, but surely you get the point. The bottom line is this last near-decade of Alabama football is the best it will ever be. It may be maintained by Saban since he is only partially human, but the run will not be topped. And sadly, it will eventually end. Maybe this year, maybe next, maybe in 2025, but it will end. So as we embark on another year with expectations higher than giraffes using medicinal marijuana, take a moment to reflect and embrace what has been. Because, as I have said before, “All glory is fleeting.” And the last nine years could not have been more glorious. Luke Robinson is a regular columnist and contributor to Lake Martin Living and BMetro.
Zac Rogers ends Alabama career on high note By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
After a season like Benjamin Russell graduate Zac Rogers had for the University of Alabama, it couldn’t have been easy to hang it up. But after a series of coaching changes and some team management issues, Rogers was left with a choice: Either give up his scholarship voluntarily to make room for upcoming players and be a walk-on or not play at all but still receive financial scholarship benefits. He decided not to play. “I saw the reality in there not being a next level for me,” Rogers said. “I thought the decision to be a normal student would be most financially smart and long-term, the best for me and my family. It gives me an opportunity to enjoy life as a normal college student because I’ve been a student-athlete for the last three years.” And at least Rogers will be able to say he went out on a high note. Rogers graduated from Benjamin Russell in 2014, and his last at-bat for the Wildcats was a home run during a playoff game. When he signed with Alabama as a pitcher, he thought he’d be able to leave his offensive career on a high note as well. But Rogers said he had possibly his most memorable moment this season for the Crimson Tide, and it actually came behind the plate instead of on the mound. “I thought that home run for Benjamin Russell would be my last ever at-bat, but I didn’t know I would get the opportunity to hit against Auburn,” Rogers said. “We were in extra innings, maybe the 11th or 12th inning, and we had burned our DH and didn’t have any other positions to get in. I ended up getting an at-bat and the guy was pitching at like 94 miles per hour. I had never been on the receiving end of 95, so it was very interesting.” Rogers ended up whiffing up on the first two pitches before fouling off the next three and inducing a fullcount walk that pushed through the go-ahead run for the Crimson Tide. It wasn’t actually Rogers’ offense that gave him such success at Alabama, though. As a junior this past season, Rogers worked his way into being one of the top relievers for the Tide. He finished 2-1 in 20 appearances and 28 innings of work. He had a 5.46 ERA with 26 total strikeouts. He went 1-0 in relief outings against SEC teams. Being a top reliever was a new experience for Rogers, though, as he was an ace for the Wildcats during
Submitted / Alabama Athletics Photography
Benjamin Russell graduate Zac Rogers had a successful season as a relief pitcher for the University of Alabama, but he has since decided to leave the program.
his high school playing days. “Going into the summer (of my junior year) I had a lot to prove and did everything I could to get more playing time,” Rogers said. “I actually pitched a lot this year, and I accepted my role as a relief pitcher. I’m not one of those guys that has to have the starter role; I enjoyed the unexpected of when I would get to pitch. “As a relief pitcher, you get to pitch more frequently, so I enjoyed that. I really embraced that role, coming into a game and being in the bullpen, it was really cool.” It was a stressful role, though. Rogers came in to games whether the Tide were winning, behind or in extra innings. Rogers said throughout his career, he knew he was undersized for a top pitcher and relied mostly on his location and movement. He said his specialties were a two-seam and a sinker ball, and many of his pitches were between 88 and 91 miles per hour. Because Rogers has dedicated much of his life to baseball — this summer was his first one off from baseball since the summer before eighth grade — he’s anxious about
what the future will bring, but also said he definitely feels like this was the right decision for him. “I personally didn’t struggle with the realization I wouldn’t be going to the next level,” Rogers said. “A lot of college athletes do because their entire life, 18 to 20 years, has been so dedicated to sports; it’s almost all they know. But my priority is that you’re going into college and taking a scholarship to get a degree. That was something that was really important to me.” Rogers has spent the summer in Oregon working as a global brand marketing intern for Nike, and even though he’s certain there will be a void to fill when baseball season rolls around again, he’s prepared to translate what he loved about the game into his everyday life. “I definitely think I’ll miss it when the season comes,” Rogers said. “But one thing I noticed this summer was it almost wasn’t the love for baseball specifically that drove me; it was the love for sport and competition that drove me. You can easily translate that competition to any other aspect of life, and it’s been really cool to see there’s key pillars of baseball that translate to other parts of my life.”
Auction to benefit Dream Field to be held Saturday By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
For more than six years, the idea of a Dream Field — a multi-use field designed for athletes with disabilities — has been in the works. Soon, it’s going to become a reality in Alexander City. This Saturday, the initial portions of fundraising for the Dream Field will officially kick off with a benefit concert and live auction held at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex. “We’re joining together with OFF (Outdoor Friends Forever) which takes handicap kids hunting and fishing,” said Sonny Wilson, the director of Alexander City Parks and Recreation. “There’s a similar fundraiser they do every year for OFF but they sell more like guns and hunting and fishing trips. This year, we’ll have all that but we’ll also have a bunch of sports memorabilia.” There’s a long list of items up for auction, including several signed sports memorabilia, a few overnight stays at Russell Cabins, rounds of golf at Willow Point, gift cards and fishing trips. Some of the big-ticket items may include a signed basketball from Magic Johnson; a Matt Ryan signed football; a Michael Jordan signed baseball; a Reggie Jackson signed baseball and more.
Submitted / Foresite
Pictured are the plans for the Dream Field to be located at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex.
Wilson said a ton of community members got involved, but much of the memorabilia donations came from Central Alabama Community College baseball coach Larry Thomas and Benjamin Russell graduate and current Oakland Athletics pitcher Kendall Graveman. “Coach Thomas has a lot of sports memorabilia from the pro players he knew,” Wilson said. “Kendall has sent us kaboodles of stuff. Coach Thomas has been a part of it since Day 1, and we called Kendall when we got this all started, told him what we were doing and he said he wanted to be a part of it.”
Jim Hardy, who is the organizer of OFF and a big part of the Dream Field, said: “An auction is a great way to get people items they want. A lot of times when you ask people to give donations, sometimes they will, but it’s great to get something back for your donation. An auction is a wonderful idea to help both parties involved, and we’ll help make some people at the auction’s dreams come true.” VIP Tickets include a dinner, private concert, meetand-greet with the bands and a ticket to the auction. Tickets are available for $35 for a single ticket or $60 for a couple. General
admission tickets, which include the concert and auction, will be sold for $15. Bands include Russell Craig, Kyle Wilson and Route 66 featuring Justin Rivers; and the auction will be held by 2017 Auctioneer of the Year Chuck Bradley. The Dream Field will be similar to a Miracle Field, but the Dream Field will be used for more than just baseball and softball. The idea of the Dream Field is for it be able to be used for volleyball, basketball, dodgeball and more. The rubberized surface allows for easier access for wheelchairs especially. It will be located near the softball fields at the Sportplex.