MORE THAN A MEAL
OPINION: LET‘S GET WILDCATS STARTED WITH A WIN, PAGE 4.
RMC supports BRHS football with pre-game meals
FRIDAY
THE
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892 August 26, 2016 Vol. 124, No. 172 www.alexcityoutlook.com
Sports, page 8.
Wildcats set to kickoff season tonight By MITCH SNEED Editor
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
The Benjamin Russell special teams practice a point after attempt Thursday afternoon as they finish preparing for Central-Clay County.
Alexander City football fans who have been waiting almost nine months to see the Benjamin Russell Wildcats under those Friday night lights – the wait is over. The Wildcats will make the journey to Lineville tonight to face Central-Clay in what will be the season opener for Danny Horn’s squad. The matchup with the 1-0 Volunteers will be a great way for the Wildcats to answer some questions that have been lingering since last season’s heart-breaking season-ending
loss in the state semifinals in Spanish Fort. Will the Wildcats be able to bounce back from the loss of 27 seniors who led last year’s squad? Can Benjamin Russell replace Tyre Gray, who led Benjamin Russell with 1,848 yards and 31 touchdowns from the quarterback position? Will Timmy Lawson be able to make the transition from cornerback to quarterback this season? Will the Wildcats have leaders step up to mold this team into winners? The answers will start coming tonight. After having an off night last week when
Group plans family fun day at Cooper Rec
See WILDCATS • Page 2
Radney Funeral Home receives national recognition
By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
Given events over the last several months involving law enforcement and the public, members of the Gibraltar Lodge #173 are hosting a meet and greet to allow the public, law enforcement and other officials to interact. “We are hosting a meet and greet and family fun day,” David Wyckoff said. “We want it to be an opportunity for everyone to come together, have a dialogue and get to know each other. We are a small city and there isn’t any reason why we can’t get to know each other.” Wyckoff and other brothers of the Gibraltar Lodge will be at the Cooper Recreation Center along with area first responders from 10 a.m. to about 3 p.m. There will also be a car show and flea market. “We have the Alexander City Police Department, the DARE program, the narcotics team, Tallapoosa See MEET • Page 3
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Justin Horton of Horton and Horton Construction paints a door jamb at the new location for Anytime Fitness. Horton is a sub-contractor for D.E. General and helping renovate the building for the new location of Anytime Fitness.
MOVING ON UP
Anytime Fitness offers sneak peek of new location Aug. 30 By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer
Anytime Fitness, currently located at 163 Alabama St., will soon be moving to a new location at 24 Broad Street in the old Ozzy’s building, according to Michelle West, assistant manager for Anytime Fitness. “We’re excited about the move,” said West. “We think it’s going to be a great thing for our members. We will be more accessible, have better parking and we’re excited to be closer to Main Street and See ANYTIME • Page 2
Radney’s Funeral Home has been honored by the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) with the 2016 Pursuit of Excellence Award. Radney’s was one of just 160 firms from around the world to receive the honor, placing the funeral home among an elite group of funeral service providers. Pursuit of Excellence Award recipients raise the bar on funeral service excellence by adhering to the highest ethical and professional standards and providing unsurpassed service to families and communities, according to a release from NFDA. “It is a distinct honor to have achieved this award for five years straight,” said Randy Anderson, owner of Radney’s Funeral Home. “Our goal is to serve every family with excellence and this award proves that we are achieving that goal.” To earn an NFDA Pursuit of Excellence Award, a participating funeral home must meet or exceed business standards set forth by the program and demonstrate proficiency in key areas of funeral service. Those standards include: • Compliance with state and federal regulations.
Lake Martin
EpiPen price 488.97 increase won’t affect schools – yet Lake Levels Reported on 8/25/16 @ 5 p.m.
LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443
laceyshowell@gmail.com
See RADNEY • Page 3
Officials warn of ‘jury duty’ scam
By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer
STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 4-6 percent of all children in the United States suffer from some kind of food allergy. That means that there are likely approximately 120-180 children in the Alexander City Schools that have food allergies, still more who suffer from allergies to things like spider bites and bee stings. According to National Food Allergy Guidelines, epinephrine is the first-line treatment for life-threatening allergic reactions. EpiPen auto-injectors have been the File / The Outlook most prescribed epinephrine auto-injector Mylan, the company that produces EpiPen has increased the cost of See EPIPEN • Page 3 the auto-injector pen more than 500 percent over nine years.
Twice this week a criminal impersonated a U.S. Marshal and threatened senior citizens, U.S. Attorney George Beck Jr. and U.S. Marshal Thomas Hession, both of the Middle District of Alabama, announced Thursday. The basics of the scam are simple: the criminal contacts the victim, tells the victim he or she has missed federal jury duty and demand the victim pay a fine to avoid arrest.
5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL
Today’s
Weather
91 72 High
6
Low
54708 90050 USPS Permit # 013-080
8
Now Playing:
Greater – PG Don’t Breathe – R Kubo and the Two Strings 3D – PG
We Care About You and Your Loved Ones!
•Home-like Environment • Specialized Dementia Care Unit •Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Services
A DAMS HEALTH & REHAB 1555 HILLABEE STREET •(256) 329-0847
See SCAM • Page 3
Page 2
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Donation of kidney ends with loss of a friendship
Saturday
93 72 Low
High Sunny
Sunday
91 72 Low
High Sunny
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 Accounting Angela Mullins Bookkeeping, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Mary Lyman Boone Bookkeeping marylyman.boone@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Cathy Higgins Sports Editor, Ext. 228 cathy.higgins@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com David Granger Staff Writer, Ext. 210 david.granger@alexcityoutlook.com
Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com 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 Jaylan Reynolds Advertising Sales Intern, Ext. 232 jaylan.reynolds@alexcityoutlook.com Composing Audra Spears Composing Department, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Alethia Russell Graphic Artist, Ext. 231 alethia.russell@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Asst. Circulation Manager, 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.
Friday, August 26, 2016
The Outlook
© 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
DEAR ABBY: My friend “Virginia” and I have known each other for 11 years. Five years ago she went into renal failure and was on dialysis for three years. It was hard on her and she needed a kidney transplant. Her three healthy siblings refused to be tested as a possible match. Virginia is on the young side, and she was in such a bad way I agreed to be tested. After several procedures it was determined I was a “close enough” match, so we decided to go for it. She was scared to death right before the surgery. I convinced her that even though things might be rough for a while, she would be glad she went through with it. It has been 18 months now, and I have not seen or heard from Virginia since the day after the surgery. I called her a few times to make sure she was doing well. She never returned my calls and has completely dropped out of my life. She lives only four blocks away, so I know things are going OK for her. I figured I’d give her some space, but that space has turned into
DEAR ABBY Advice
forever. I haven’t heard from her family either. They visited Virginia at the hospital, but didn’t stop in to see me just three rooms away. How could I have been so wrong about someone I knew for so long? My husband says Virginia is an idiot and I should let it go. My therapist says I’ll have to “adjust to the injustice.” I would have donated to a complete stranger without hesitation. But Virginia wasn’t a stranger. I never expected to lose my friend along with my kidney. Can you please help me handle this? -- BLINDSIDED IN NEW YORK DEAR BLINDSIDED: I can see why you are hurt by the abrupt change in your friend’s behavior, and believe me, I empathize. The knee-jerk reaction of someone who hasn’t
Call Spencer or Dax Today!
256.234.5331
DOWN PAYMENTS
As Low
500
$
As...........
MONTHLY PAYMENTS As Low
250
$
As........... *Upon Kerley Motors Approval
FOR SALE
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.
LOT 11 CLUBVIEW DRIVE
Great building lot in established, familyfriendly neighborhood! Clubview Heights is located across from CACC and is convenient to schools, downtown, churches, restaurants, hospital, Hwy 280 and Lake Martin!
SAMANTHA SPURLIN
OfÄce: 256.329.LAKE (5253) Mobile: 256.786.0650 www.samanthaspurlin.com sam@samanthaspurlin.com
WHATLEY MONUMENT Company
Better Service A Family Tradition 1049 Hillabee Street Alexander City, AL C.M. “Mike” Whatley, Owner
329-1217
DEAR ABBY: Why is it that when women visit, they’ll take their handbag and put it on the kitchen counter, the kitchen table or on the dining room table? Their handbags have been on as many floors as my shoes. Don’t they think about
what they’re doing? Please let your readers know this is not a good idea. If someone needs to put a handbag down, it should be placed on the floor, where it most likely was previously. -- GROSSED OUT IN THE EAST DEAR GROSSED OUT: I think the answer to your question is that the majority of women who carry purses DON’T think about this, just absentmindedly place them on the floor, a table, counter or chair. However, for individuals who are concerned about the transfer of germs, there is a solution. There are portable hooks they can carry with them that rest on a table or desk so the purse can be suspended if it has a handle. I have seen them advertised on the internet, and they are inexpensive. 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 Mrs. Naomi Ruth Rhodes 1934 - 2016 Funeral Service for Mrs. Naomi Ruth Rhodes, 82, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Saturday, August 27, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Chaplain David Rozelle and Rev. Brian Busby will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 27, 2016 from 1:30 p.m to 2:30 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. Mrs. Rhodes passed away on Wednesday, August 24, 2016 at her residence. She was born on July 15, 1934 in Chambers County, Alabama to Dennis R. “DR” Sprayberry and Ethel Green Sprayberry. She was an active member of Wayside Baptist Church. She worked at Powder Puff Beauty Salon in Alexander City for many years. Miss Ruth enjoyed cooking, gardening, and Alabama Football and Baseball. She is survived by her daughter, Vicky Waters (Joe) of Reeltown; granddaughter, Kristi Spraggins (Travis) of Reeltown; great-grandchildren, Branton and Kalyn Spraggins. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Billy Rhodes; and brothers, Homer Lee Sprayberry and Charles Sprayberry. The family will accept flowers or memorial contributions to First Baptist Church Reeltown Children’s Ministry, 16963 Hwy 49 Notasulga, AL 36866. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www. radneyfuneralhome.com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
1720 Dadeville Road • Alexander City, AL
been through this would be to say what unfeeling and ungrateful people Virginia and her family are, because you literally saved her life. However, it may help you to better understand what has happened if you consider that while you saved Virginia’s life, sometimes the burden of gratitude is more than someone can bear. For whatever reason, she may carry some guilt about owing you as much as she does, which is why she can no longer interact with you. As to her family, that none of her siblings were willing to be tested as possible matches for her speaks volumes about them and the quality of their relationships, so stop feeling slighted. Listen to your therapist because she/he has given you some practical advice.
Brent T. Lee
Brent T. Lee, 53, of Chalmette, LA, died August 23, 2016, at St. Bernard Parish Hospital in New Orleans. Mr. Lee was affiliated with Vertical Point Church in Alexander City, AL. He was anAn artist who loved design and gardening. He was a gentle giant with a benevolent spirit, compassionate in helping others. Brent was preceded in death by his grandparents, W.J. and Wilma Carter, Arthur and Susie Lee. He is survived by his parents, Robert and Charmagne Lee of Childersburg, AL, formerly of Petal; two brothers, Daniel Lee (Karen) of Greenville, SC and Vince Lee (Tina) of Alexander City, AL; three nieces, Rachel Lee Holtzclaw (Michael), Heather Lee Barrett (Justin) and Ana Lee Milam (Chad); one nephew, Allen Lee (Lori); one great niece and one great nephew. On Friday, August 26, 2016, there will be a visitation from 3-4 p.m. at Vertical Point Church in Alexander City, AL under the direction of Radney Funeral Home. On Saturday, August 27, 2016, visitation will be at Moore Funeral Home in Petal, MS, from 1:30 p.m. until the service at 3:30 p.m. Burial will be in Green’s Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.
Mr. Edward Buckner Funeral service for Mr. Edward Buckner of Alexander City, Alabama will be Saturday, August 27, 2016 at Marietta Baptist Church at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Marietta Baptist Church Cemetery. Wright’s Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Anytime more visible in downtown Alexander City.” West said Anytime Fitness, which is owned by Doug Morris and has been operating out of its current location for six years, will be moving its equipment on Sept. 21 and hopes to be “back open shortly after that.” In the meantime, Anytime will hold a pre-sale promo in front of the new location on Tuesday, Aug. 30, West said. “We’ll be there on the 30th from 4 p.m. until 7
continued from page 1
p.m. We’ll have a tent out front and we’ll be giving tours of the new location,” West said. “People can get a sneak peak inside. In fact, we’re calling it our ‘Sneak Peak’ event. “We’ll have a drawing from the names of people who sign up that day for a one-year free membership and we’ll have special rates available, which will include two free months of membership.” West said that among the advantages of the new loca-
Bill’s Electric ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
P.O. Box 673 1814 Airpor t Blvd • Alexander Cit y, AL
(256) 234-4555
tion will be 25 percent more space (6,200 square feet), a larger group fitness room and a functional fitness area “where we’re going to be doing crossfit-style exercises.” According to West, Anytime Fitness offers stateof-the-art fitness eqipment, cardio training, strength training, group fitness, tanning, certified professional trainers and 24/7 access to more than 3,000 locations nationwide. Anytime Fitness opened its first gym in 2002 in Cambridge, Minnesota. Since then, the company has grown to more than 3,000 gyms in all 50 states and approximately 30 countries. Anytime Fitness is the world’s fastest-growing fitness club and largest co-ed fitness franchise, averaging adding 300 new gyms per year over the last eight years.
Wildcats
continued from page 1
most of the state’s schools opened the season, Horn said it’s time to learn the identity of this year’s team and the Wildcats are excited about heading to Lineville for their first game of the season. “You get tired of practicing against yourselves in football practice,” the coach said. “If you’re a competitor you want to go out and play against another opponent.” Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Central of Clay County’s Volunteer Stadium in Lineville.
“PROVIDING QUAALITYY ELEECTRRICALL CONSSTRUUCTIION SINCE 196 61”
WHY ADVERTISE IN THE OUTLOOK?
TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS, YOU MUST INCREASE
YOUR VISIBILITY.
TO ADVERTISE IN THE MOST POWERFUL MEDIA AVAILABLE, CALL US AT 256.234.4281
Friday, August 26, 2016
Scam
continued from page 1
To make the scheme believable, the scammer provides the victim factual information such as the title and badge number of a law enforcement officer or court official, the name of a federal judge and the courthouse address. Scammers are even using technology to mask their phone number on caller ID and make it appear as if the call is actually coming from the court or a government agency. This is called “spoofing” and has become very common with scammers nationwide. In some cases, the scammer may carry the scheme out via email with an officiallooking email address. The U.S. Marshals have received several calls inquiring about this scheme over the past few days and are advising the public that this is a scam. If you receive a jury duty-related call or email, do not provide and personal information
or send money. The federal courts do not call or email prospective jurors or ask for money or personal information and they never serve an arrest warrant by phone. Valid arrest warrants are always served in person. The court also does not demand money in lieu of arrest nor accept payment via prepaid card. Anyone that received a “jury duty scam” phone call or email should report it immediately to their local U.S. Marshal’s or FBI office. If available, please have the caller ID information or email address of the scammer when you call. The phone number for the U.S. Marshals Service, Middle District of Alabama, which includes Tallapoosa County, is 334-223-7401. The FBI may be contacted in Birmingham at 205-3266166 or Mobile at 251-438-3674
EpiPen
Meet
continued from page 1
County Sheriff’s Department, the Alexander City Fire Department and a motivational speaker.” Wyckoff said the program is for everyone but they are especially targeting teenagers. “We are focusing on kids, especially the ones just starting to drive,” Wyckoff said. “We want the first and hopefully only interaction with law enforcement to be a positive one.”
*All vehicles are figured on 84 months, $2,000 down + tax, title & doc. W.A.C. **Available with purchase of one of the six advertised vehicles.
2013
Lincoln MKZ Base
continued from page 1
in the U.S. for more than 25 years. Recently Mylan, the company that produces the EpiPen, has been under fire for a dramatic rise in the cost of the auto-injector. The average price of a two-dose EpiPen package climbed to about $608 earlier this year, up more than 500 percent from around $94 nine years ago, according to the Elsevier Clinical Solutions’ Gold Standard Drug Database. But according to Benjamin Russell High School school nurse Melanie Sharpton, who serves as Alabama’s epinephrine resource nurse for with the National Association of School Nurses, that’s something that schools don’t have to worry about. At least, not yet. “Mylan has provided free EpiPens nationally to schools that meet the requirements of having an anaphylaxis protocol,” said Sharpton. “(Alexander City Schools) have a protocol complete with a prescription from Dr. Eric Tyler and we’ve gotten the EpiPens free for three years now. “But Mylan’s been clear that they cannot say if and when they might stop” the free EpiPens, Sharpton said. Sharpton said that Alexander City, with the support of Tyler and Rep. Mark Tuggle, was the first school system in the state to have stock epinephrine. “That’s something that we’re very proud of,” Sharpton said. “As a small town, we’re proud of leading an effort like that to benefit so many school children.”
Sharpton said the legislation sponsored by Tuggle in the 2014 session of the Alabama Legislature and effective for the 2015-16 school year does not require that schools stock epinephrine, but allows it. “We didn’t want to put schools in the position of having to incur that expense,” Sharpton said. “And with the costs so high now, that could put a smaller, poorer system in a financial bind.” According to Charity Spann, the school nurse at Alexander City Middle School who also serves as the school system’s lead nurse, each school keeps three EpiPens in stock. That’s 15 system-wide. Were the pens not free, that’s would mean a $9,000 investment every 18 months, the shelf life of the EpiPens, which come in two doses – .15 milligrams for small children and .3 milligrams for larger children and adults. Spann said several children in the Alexander City system have their own EpiPens and only once has one of the auto-injectors been used in the Alexander City system. One child at Alexander City Middle School had a reaction that required an injection. Mylan, reacting to the furor over the price increase, said Thursday that it would cut the price for some patients immediately through the use of a $300 savings card it will offer and an expansion of its assistance program for patients below a certain income level who lack insurance.
Radney
Page 3
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
#805910
$249.87 Mo nt h *
THER PW, PL, TILT, CRUISE & LEA
Toyota 2012 Co rolla
149.95
2012
Nissan Rogue
#061438
*
Mo nt 31 MPG Hwy, Cruise, PL, Tilt & PW h
2014
*
One owner, PW, PL & Tilt
2014 Kia Soul $
#787245
139.72 Month
$
#279065
$189.42 Mo nt h *
Cruise, PL, Tilt & PW
Volvo 2012S6 0 T5
NIS SAN MAXIMA 3.5S
#495029
$198.50 M on th *
SUNROOF PW, PL, TILT, CRUISE &
#035698
169.87 Month
$
*
PL, PW & Tilt
**FREE Oil Change
for 2 years with purchase MUST BRING COUPON TO RECEIVE
continued from page 1
• Providing ongoing education and professional development opportunities for staff. • Offering outstanding programs and resources to bereaved families. • Maintaining an active level of involvement within the community. • Participating and actively serving in the funeral service profession. • Promoting funeral home services through a variety of marketing, advertising and public relations programs. • Participants are also required to adhere to a Pledge of Ethical Practices. “Radney’s Funeral Home’s voluntary participation in the Pursuit of Excellence Award program reflects a clear determination to exceed the expectations of those
they serve,” said NFDA Chief Executive Officer Christine Pepper. “This prestigious recognition assures families of the high-quality, compassionate service they will receive the moment they walk through the funeral home’s front door.” NFDA is the world’s leading and largest funeral service association, serving 19,700 individual members who represent more than 10,000 funeral homes in the United States and 39 countries around the world. Radney’s Funeral Home, Inc. is the leading funeral home in east central Alabama and provides funeral services with burial or cremation. They are the sole provider of Cremation with Confidence in Tallapoosa
County. They can be contacted at 256-234-2511 or at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
WWW.TALLAPOOSAFORD.COM (256) 234-3432 • 1551 Hwy. 280 • Alexander City, AL
JOBS available Advertising Sales Representative Alexander City & Wetumpka Offices As an Advertising sales representative you will be expected to develop new business and maintain an existing account base of clients for The Alexander City Outlook, The Wetumpka Herald, The Dadeville Record, The Tallassee Tribune, The Eclectic Observer, Lake Magazine, Lake Martin Living Magzine, Elmore County Living Magazine, Digital Sales and other special publications.
Salary+Commission, Excellent Benefit Package TPI is an Equal Oppotunity Employer 256-329-1313 Free Consultations 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.”
+
+ Buy Here + Pay Here + +
CLEAN USED CARS No Credit Checks
Cars• Vans• Trucks • SUV’s
Midway Auto,Inc.
Off Hwy. 280 • Alexander City, AL (On Right Past the River Bridge)
256.825.9830
Qualifications Must be able to work in a fast paced and deadline oriented environment. Candidates must have excellent oral, written, and communication skills including basic computer skills with Mircosoft, Google Documents and email. Great organization skills and self-motivated. Reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
Please email resume to marketing@alexcityoutlook.com
MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213
editor@alexcityoutlook.com
EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
Outlook The
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 4
Opinion
Our View
Let’s get ‘Cats started with a win
T
onight, the Benjamin Russell Wildcats open their 2016 football season. Yes, we know that many teams – Dadeville, Reeltown and Central-Coosa among them – opened their seasons last week and that Dadeville and Reeltown played their second games of the season last night in the “Battle of Highway 49.” But there’s a little extra excitement in the air when the home team tees it up. Benjamin Russell, who advanced to the Class 6A state playoff semifinals last year before falling 31-27 to Spanish Fort, will be a young team this year, having graduated a talented senior class that included explosive quarterback Tyre Gray. But the Wildcats have one of the best head coaches in Alabama high school football in six-time state champion Danny Horn and if you had to pick a coach to be in charge of a rebuild, it would be him. Coincidentally, Horn’s six state championships came just down the road from where the Wildcats travel tonight. Benjamin Russell travels to Lineville to play the Central-Clay County Volunteers. Central-Clay County was formed by the consolidation of Lineville High and Ashland’s Clay County High in 2012. It was at Clay County High where Horn led the Panthers to state titles in 1994, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2002 and 2005. That’s an enviable record. The Volunteers, coached by Kris Herron, are coming off a 5-6 season in 2015 that saw them lose in the first round of the Class 5A state playoffs to Vigor. But the Volunteers opened their season last Friday night with a 14-10 win at Munford, which advanced to the Class 4A playoff semifinals last season before losing to eventual champion Leeds. From where we sit, tonight’s Wildcats opener promises to be a good one, well worth the 35-mile trip to Lineville. If you can make it, be there wearing your maroon and let’s get our hometown BRHS Wildcats started off on a winning track. Coach Horn and our young men deserve your support.
Friday, August 26, 2016
Anniversaries are a good time for reflection
T
his Sunday my sweet wife and I will celebrate our 52nd anniversary. Where has the time gone? Even now I can remember the day I swept her off her feet with my manly charms and debonair ways. We were starting junior high school together in 1958, and I was a seasoned ninth grader with hardly any pimples, three facial hairs and a deep bass voice that only occasionally cracked. What girl could resist a hunk like that? To accent my 160 pounds of masculinity I was dressed to kill with a new pair of black Skeets’ trousers pegged at the ankles to exactly 13 inches. The western shirt and string tie really set off my white socks and penny loafers, and when I doffed my cowboy hat at her, she was mine. The girl didn’t stand a chance. Bless her heart I can still remember her standing there staring with her mouth open and unable to say a word. Yes sir, when I make an impression, I make an impression. When she was finally able to speak, she looked me over and asked, “Are you with the circus?” I guess I looked a lot older than I was, and my classy outfit probably made her think I was a celebrity. Boy, that little gal was smitten. Our high school years
DR. GERALD HALLMARK Guest Columnist
were full of activities and dates. She was a cheerleader, a majorette, served on the student council, was in the honor society, selected as a school beauty and worked with the school newspaper. As for me, I hung around with the guys and kept my car washed and shiny. All that stuff she did was fine, but a guy was required to have a cool car with loud mufflers. Because I liked her so much in those days I would sometimes let her select the station on my car’s AM radio. I was really good to that girl. When we got married in 1964 I wore a great looking, rented black tux. She wore a white dress of some sort and had a bunch of her giggly girl friends stand with her. I even got a fresh flat top haircut for the occasion and a new pair of white socks for my loafers. You talk about your fashion statements; I always tried to make one. I can still remember her wide-eyed expression when she looked at my hair and new socks. There are times she still looks at me that way when I dress for
church, but now she makes definite recommendations about my attire. She still can’t keep her eyes off me, can she? After 52 years we are still in love, married and look to the future. Like all marriages there have been rough times interspersed among the good ones. Yet, the bottom line is we were married for life and we accepted together all that life threw at us. It just goes with the territory to stand together and not only endure, but to win. In spite of all the jokes made about marriage every married couple knows the bliss that comes from a Christian marriage. Without Christ as the center of a marriage there can be little joy in that relationship. God truly gave to man the first bride and has blessed every marriage since then with His presence. My bride has got out the album of our wedding and I saw one picture that brought a tear to my eye. I couldn’t help myself when I caught a glimpse of my 1959 Ford Galaxy all shiny and bright. My new wife looked pretty standing beside it, too. Dr. Gerald Hallmark is a retired minister who lives in Alexander City. His column appears in each Friday in The Outlook.
John McKelvey represents District 3, \\vwhich includes Jackson’s Gap, Hackneyville, New Site and Daviston. His phone number is 256-794-4405. His address is 1285 Freeman Road, Dadeville.
Emma Jean Thweatt represents District 4, which includes Dadeville, Pace’s Point, northern Camp Hill, Buttston, Dudleyville and part of Eagle Creek. Her daytime phone number is 825-6914 and her evening phone number is 825-4207. Her address Emma Jean Thweatt is 585 Brookwood Circle, Dadeville. George Carleton Jr. represents District 5, which includes southern Camp Hill, Red Ridge, Walnut Hill, Union and Pleasant Ridge. His address is 630 Turner Road Road, Dadeville.
George Carleton Jr.
Scripture
“I could ask the darkness to hide me and the light around me to become night – but even in darkness I cannot hide from you.” – Psalm 139:11-12
alexcityoutlook.com
Daily Poll Thursday Question: Do you think enough people exercise their right to vote?
Yes – 10 No – 131
Friday Question: Are you confident in the new leadership opportunities for Alexander City? 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.
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.
How to
Subscribe
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 50 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.
Letters to the Editor
Colvin appreciative of election support
Dear Editor, First, let me say thank you to the Most High for all that he has done, is doing and will do in my life, especially for how far he has brought me in my quest for City Council District 2 seat. Thank you to everyone who has worked tirelessly with me in this journey. Mom thanks for everything you’ve done to help me see this vision and for telling
me to trust God and claim it. To my family, thanks for all the love and support. Sherry Ellison, thank you for four years of service and for running a clean and fair race and for encouraging me to keep campaigning. To the 264 voters who took time out of their day on Tuesday, Aug. 23rd to show me they support and believe I
would stand in the gap for them, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I’m humbled by your show of love and confidence. I ask that you show up again on Oct. 4th and cast your vote again so we can complete this awesome journey together. Audrey “Buffy” Colvin Alexander City
Column on lottery hit ‘nail on the head’
John McKelvey
Today’s
Mission
Officials
Steve Robinson represents District 2, which includes the southern part of Alexander City, the Cedar Creek area, Ourtown and Willow Point. His phone number is 256-654-0047. His Steve Robinson address is 1225 Warren Circle, Alexander City.
Quote
“The best part of beauty is that which no picture can express.” – Francis Bacon
Our
Know Your
T.C. Coley represents District 1, including half of Coley Creek, the Andrew Jackson subdivision, the southern part of Indian Hill, North Central Avenue, part of Pearson’s Chapel Road, the Northside community and portion T.C. Coley of Spring Hill community. His phone number is 212-9316. His address is 2316 North Central Avenue, Kellyton.
Today’s
Dear Editor, Thank you for printing the excellent column by Katherine Green Robertson. She hit the nail on the head. A lot of people think that the only argument against a lottery is the moral argument that we Christians make. As Ms. Robertson’s article made clear, a lottery is just bad policy. It is bad econom-
ic policy. It is bad social policy. And as far as the moral argument, the fact that I don’t gamble does not make me more righteous than those who do. It just makes me smarter.
Harvey, Gaines Hodnett, and his secretary about this situation and yet there is no definitive answer. Everyone is playing the blame game. The mayor will not have Hodnett enforce this law, the city itself is in violation if you drive around the city to see city property that is in need of mowing. Howard is now a lame duck and just try to get Hodnett to return a call is wishful thinking, much less do his job. He always tells his secretary
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) 2346550 or e-mailed to editor@alexcityoutlook.com. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send us your thoughts today!
Follow us
On the Web
Tommie Simpson New Site
City leaders need to enforce the rules
Dear Editor, Now that the election process is over, for a few more months I would like to FINALLY get an answer as to why the grass at my neighbor’s house on Springhill Road has been allowed to not be cut in six months. Why is the city allowed to enforce some rules and not enforce others? My wife and I have spoken to Mayor Shaw, our councilman Bob Howard, the mayor’s administrative assistant Fran
What’s your
to tell us that he is so busy that he can’t do the job. Well Mayor Shaw, you still want the job? Then do it! Fire him and get someone who will do the job he was assigned to do. Get the grass cut. I am tired of watching rats run in my yard and across the pool in the jungle of a yard that’s next door. Joe Morrione Alexander City
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.
ClassiÄeds
Lake & River Fax (205) 669-4217
Reaching more than 22,000 households in Tallapoosa and Elmore counties
The Alexander City Outlook
The Dadeville Record
Phone (256) 277-4219
classifieds@alexcityoutlook.com public.notices@alexcityoutlook.com classifieds@thewetumpkaherald.com public.notices@thewetumpkaherald.com
The Eclectic Observer
The Tallassee Tribune
The Wetumpka Herald
Friday, August 26, 2016
CommunityCalendar SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
Today’s Anniversaries
Today is
August 26, 2016
Page 7
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
James and Deborah Pike Robert L. and Bessie Golatte are celebrating their anniversaries.
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
Thelma R. Blackmon, Rickie Stowes, Aaron Walker, Shakiyah Walker and Braxton White are celebrating their birthdays.
HOLLEY’S HOME FURNISHINGS
We Dare You To Compare! 1660 Hwy. 22 West Alexander City, AL
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700
256.234.4141 Visit us online at:
www.holleyshomefurnishings.com
haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
LAKE MARTIN HOME INSPECTIONS of Lake Martin
SUMMER IS HERE!! TIME TO COOL OFF WITH US!
walls don’t talk. Get all the facts before you buy, with a certi¿ed home inspector.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY! 110 Calhoun Street • Suite 202 Alexander City, AL cell: 256.794.5551 wwwlakemartininspections.com KENNETH BLAIR, Certi¿ed Home Inspector
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
sears
HOMETOWN STORE Jeff Rothstein – Owner
3724 Pepperell Pkwy. Opelika, AL (Old Midway Plaza)
(334) 364-0174
Submitted / The Outlook
The Alexander City Fire Department is seeking recruits to fill a number of open slots with their team. Recruits will go through an extensive 15-week training program that includes firefighting and emergency medical technician education and officials are looking to begin forming classes in the next few weeks. For more information on how you can become part of the Alexander City Fire Department team, stop by either of the local fire stations. Capt. Jeff Brewer can be reached at Station II at 256-329-6781. August 27
MEET AND GREET: With all that’s going on in the country dealing with our Law Enforcement Official and the community. We the Brothers of Gibraltar Lodge #173 decided instead of marching or protesting, why not have a Meet and Greet / Family Fun Day Aug. 27 starting at 10 a.m. at the Cooper Recreation Center. This would allow for the City Officials and the Community an opportunity to come together and have dialogue on concerns within the community as well as get to know each other. We are a small city and there isn’t any reason why we can’t get to know each other. So come on out bring the family and be a part of the solution. It will be a great time of Fellowship. YARD SALE: Comer United Methodist Church is hosting its annual yard sale Aug. 27 from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. at 427 East Church Street. There are going to have a little bit of everything. FAMILY GAME NIGHT: The Bibb Graves Alumni and Friends Association in Millerville is hosting a family game night with bingo Aug. 27 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. BENEVOLENCE DAY: Kellyton New Harvest Ministries at Highway 280 and Coosa County Road 28 is hosting benevolence day with free clothing Saturday, Aug. 27 from 8 a.m. until.
August 28
Sears Service: 1-800-469-4663 web: www.sears.com
CHURCH HOMECOMING: River Road Baptist Church is hosting homecoming services Sunday, Aug. 28 at 10 a.m.
Best Prices Need Insurance? Available! Call me.
256.234.3481 KarenChannell.com
256.357.2045 800.780.2045 www.WedoweeMarine.com
with Rebecca Futral and Just One in concert. A love offering will be taken and a covered dish lunch will be served at noon. Margaret Thornton is music director and Dr. Albert Pike is pastor. Everyone is invited.
August 30
COUNCIL MEETING: The Dadeville City Council will meet Aug. 30 at noon for its second meeting of August to canvas the results of the municipal election and its regular meeting. UNITED WAY KICKOFF: The Lake Martin Area United Way’s Campaign Kick Off is Tuesday, Aug. 30 at 5:30 p.m. at the Betty Carol Graham Technology Center. COMMUNITY FORUM: SAV-A-LIFE is having a community forum, Tuesday, Aug. 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the Russell Sales Office Lobby to discuss the function and importance of SAVA-LIFE inthe the community. Everyone is invited to attend.
September 2
HOMECOMING: There will be a homecoming reception for the Dadeville High School Classes of 1957, 1977 and 1997 at the Dadeville high School Library at 5 p.m. The classes will be honored at the reception before the game and by recognizing them at the football field before the game begins.
September 3
YARD SALE: Camp Hill Baptist Church is hosting a yard sale at its 280 property Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. to raise funds for a playground.
Season Speaks Express Blowout • Highlight Ombre • Gloss • Color Make-Up • Keratin Adult & Children Hair Cuts Bridal & Bachelorette Packages 792 Commerce Drive Suite 103 Alexander City, AL
256.234.2007 256.749.8804
September 4
GOSPEL SINGING: World of Truth Ministries is hosting an Awakening Crusade with Paster James H. Bolton and Minister Eddie J. Howard Jr. Sunday, Sept. 4 at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. LABOR DAY WEEKEND CONCERT: Russell Lands on Lake Martin is hosting its last event of the Summer Concert Series with a Labor Day Weekend Concert Sunday, Sept. 4 at The AMP with the Vegabonds, The Bama Gamblers, Rexton Lee and The Bank Walkers. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the show starts at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 and children under six are free. APPRECIATION SERVICE: St. John A.M.E. Church is hosting the 21st Appreciation Sunday, Sept. 4 at 2:30 p.m. honoring Rev. and Sister James R. McCoy. PASTORAL ANNVERSARY: Mt. Zion East Missionary Baptist Church is hosting the 13th Pastoral Anniversary honoring Rev. and Sister Jimmy Thomas Sunday, Sept. 4 at 2 p.m. Guest minister is Rev. J.C. Fryer of Pine Hill Missionary Baptist Church.
September 6
BUDGET HEARING: The Tallapoosa County Board of Education is holding two public hearings for the 2017 Budget on Sept. 6 and Sept. 12 at 4 p.m. at the Board office at 679 East Columbus Street in Dadeville.
September 7
MONTHLY LUNCHEON: The Bibb Graves Alumni and Friends Association is hosting its montly luncheon Sept. 7 form 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
September 9-10
WOMEN’S CONFERENCE: The Just Believe Women’s Conference will be at Passion Church Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. and Sept. 10 at 10:30 a.m. Presenting Friday will be Shanesia Burden, April Ross and Sandra Whitehill and Saturday will be Stella Henderson. Refreshments will be served Friday and lunch will be served Saturday. All churces are welcome.
September 10
LAUREL HIGH CLASS OF 1969: The Laurel High
School Class of 1969 will have a meeting on Sat. Sept. 10 at 10 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Cooper Recreation Center. PANCAKE BREAKFAST: Comer United Methodist Church is hosting a pancake breakfast Sept. 10 from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. for $6 a plate. Plates consist of pancakes, bacon and/or sausage. Dine in is all you can eat and to go plates are available.
September 12
BUDGET HEARING: The Alexander City Board of Education will have a public budget hearing Sept. 12 at 7 a.m. in the board office at 375 Lee Street. BUDGET HEARING: The Tallapoosa County Board of Education is holding two public hearings for the 2017 Budget on Sept. 6 and Sept. 12 at 4 p.m. at the Board office at 679 East Columbus Street in Dadeville. HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Storyteller Dolores Hydock will present “It’s the Little Things: Five small objects that played a big role in shaping the Dutch Golden Age,” to Horizons Unlimited Sept. 12 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education Office.
Have Kona Ice® at your School, Festivals, Athletic and Corporate Events! p. 256-794-8197 e. dyates @kona-ice.com f Kona Ice Lake Martin www.kona-ice.com
FOOT Specialties
Dr. Douglas Stewart Alexander City, AL
256-215-5596 American Board of Podiatric Surgery Certi¿ed Diabetic Shoes Hospital Surgeries Total Nail Care Hammertoes, Bunions, Corns and Calluses Sports Injuries
September 12-13
CHURCH REVIVAL: Sandy Creek Baptist Church is hosting a revival Sept. 12 and 113 at 6:30 p.m. Pastor Craig Guy has invited Rev. Phillip Winningham as guest speaker. Gail and Donnie Douglas will provide special music. All are welcome.
September 17
RIVER KIDS: The Tallapoosa County Extension Service and River Kids are hosting a float trip on the Tallapoosa River from Horseshoe Bend to Jay Bird Creek September 17 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Only twenty spots are available. Children must be at least 12 years of age and participated in Kayak Kamp. For more information or to register contact the Tallapoosa County Extension Office at 256-826-1050. Registration deadline is Sept. 9. TRADE DAY: The Bibb Graves Aluni and Friends Association is hosting a trade day from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Booths are $10.
Endless Vap r
A thh ti Authentic Name Brand Vaping Gear 10% OFF
WITH THIS COUPON
1678 Hwy. 22 West Alexander City, AL
256.786.0781
CATHY HIGGINS SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
sports@alexcityoutlook.com
Page 8
Friday, August 26, 2016
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Sports
Briefs Tradition of rolling the Auburn Oaks returns this football season Auburn University football fans will enjoy rolling the two new Auburn Oaks at Toomer’s Corner with toilet paper this fall, marking the return of one of college athletics’ best-known traditions. The tradition is for fans to throw rolls of toilet paper over the limbs after Auburn wins. As the new trees continue to get established in the soil, university officials are welcoming “gentle” rolling of the two oaks by asking fans not to cross the fences encompassing the trees and to not climb on the trees. The university is asking fans not to roll any other trees in Samford Park, including the 10 smaller oak trees lining the walkway from Toomer’s Corner to Samford Hall. Those trees, descendants of the original oaks, were planted in the spring and are not fully established. Donors have the opportunity to name the special trees as a way to raise funds for scholarships in the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, with five already having been named. Auburn officials temporarily halted the tradition in 2013 as a result of the original oaks being poisoned in 2011. The university attempted to save the trees, but had to remove them once it was determined they would not survive. Two new large trees were planted in 2015. The oak on Magnolia Avenue did not survive the move, so it was replaced a few months later.
Alabama Football places 9 on Lombardi Award Watch List
Alabama defensive linemen Jonanthan Allen, Da’Shawn Hand, Da’Ron Payne and Dalvin Tomlinson, linebackers Ryan Anderson, Reuben Foster and Tim Williams, tight end O.J. Howard and offensive lineman Cam Robinson have been named to the 2016 Rotary Lombardi Award watch list announced today by the Rotary Club of Houston. Alabama’s nine candidates equals Clemson for the most in the country. They are among 158 players from around the country named to the preseason list that now recognizes the nation’s top college football player. Alabama’s Cornelius Bennett won the award in 1986. Due to a change in its criteria in 2016, the Rotary Lombardi Award is now open to college football players regardless of position, who “demonstrate outstanding performance and skill in offensive or defensive positions and best exemplify the discipline, virtue and wisdom that defined Vincent Lombardi’s exceptional brand of leadership.” The award is named in honor of former Green Bay Packers head coach Vince Lombardi. The Rotary Lombardi Award has been presented annually since 1970 by the Rotary Club of Houston. Prior to 2016, the award recognized the top offensive or defensive lineman or linebacker in college football. The award ceremony date will be announced later this season.
Auburn track and field to host Fall Instructional School
The Auburn track and field program will be holding its first Track & Field Instructional School this fall. The camp is designed for male and female athletes ages 13 through current high school seniors. The Auburn coaching staff, along with selected current and former Auburn track and field athletes, will be on hand to provide expert technical instruction for each event, including sprints, jumps, distance and throws. The seven session camp will take place on Monday nights from 6 p.m.7:30 p.m. and will run Sept. 26-Nov. 14. There will be no training session on Monday, Oct. 31. Head coach Ralph Spry says these camps may also benefit athletes of other sports as well, not just those young athletes already participating in track and field. Pre-registration is currently available at www.auburntrackcamps. com. The camp is open to any and all entrants (limited only by number, age, grade, and/or gender). The cost of the camp (all seven sessions included) is $295. For more information or if you have questions, contact Scott Duval, Director of Operations in the Auburn Track & Field office, at 334-844-4975 or by e-mail at duvaljs@auburn.edu.
MORE THAN A MEAL
Benjamin Russell High junior Latrayvious Gray practices linebacker moves during the Wildcats’ summer workouts.
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
RMC supports the Wildcats by feeding them before every home game By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor
For most of us, heading to the hospital is not something to look forward to. But for the Benjamin Russell High football team, the prospect is quite a treat. For the last eight years Russell Medical Center has served a pregame meal to the Wildcats players and coaching staff in the hospital cafeteria before each home game. This year will be no different. “They spend a lot of time, money and effort doing it for us,” said Benjamin Russell head football coach Danny Horn. Horn, his team and coaching staff arrive at the cafeteria around 3:30 p.m. the day of each home game, dressed in casual pants and nice shirts. There they are joined by team chaplain Bro. Wayne Cowhick and additional members of the community, where they spend an hour enjoying a meal and fellowship. “Several members of the Quarterback Club help serve the meal,” said RMC CEO Jim Peace.
RMC staff also take the opportunity to stop by for visits with the team when able. “I think our employees are proud to host that,” Peace said. “We’ve got several employees who have kids that go to Benjamin Russell.” The meal also gives the team the opportunity to transition from the school day. “They put their game face on,” said RMC Media Director Susan Foy. “Then we leave the hospital and go out to the field,” Horn said. This season the Wildcats have four home games. Menus for pregame meals on these days were developed by Russell Medical Center Chef Brad MacFiggen and Director of Nutrition Teresa Wright. They utilize carbohydrate requirements provided by Horn to produce balanced meals that sustain the athletes through the duration of the game. “It’s a team effort,” Foy said.
The Wildcats coach said the meals are always “really, really good.” “Sometimes it’s roast beef, sometimes it’s lasagna,” Horn said. “We’ve had steak there before.” RMC began hosting the Wildcats’ home team pregame meals when Peace became CEO in 2008. “I felt like it was the right thing to do,” he said. “When I was in high school I played football. We had meals in the school cafeteria where we had lunch earlier that day and we didn’t leave the school.” Such a scenario hasn’t been the case for the Benjamin Russell Wildcats for the last eight years. “This provides them with good nutritional meals and it gives them the opportunity to get away from the school for a little bit,” Peace said. “And we can pay some recognition to our high school athletes.” Horn, who is also in his eighth year at Benjamin Russell, said RMC’s pregame meal program exemplifies the community support for the
Wildcats. “The support this town has for athletic programs and for the schools is really something special,” the coach said. “When we go on the road we pack the place out. When we come home our side is full.” Horn said the same has always been true. “The thing is when we were not very good, it was still the same way,” he said. “They’re going to support you win or lose. It’s not all about the bandwagon, anybody can do that. But they’re there during the tough times too. That’s why I appreciate this town. It’s a good atmosphere.” Without a doubt, that appreciation extends to the effort RMC makes to provide those pregame meals for the team. “It’s a treat for us as well,” Foy said. “They’re so appreciative and well mannered.” Benjamin Russell’s first home game is Sept. 9 against Chelsea. They open the 2016 football season tonight by heading to Central-Clay County to face the Volunteers at 7 p.m.
Wildcats, Generals start football season tonight Central Coosa Cougars to host first home game of 2016 Lineville for their season opener against Central-Clay County at Volunteer Stadium. Horseshoe Bend starts its season at Two area schools kick off football seahome by hosting Donoho at General son tonight. Benjamin Russell Wildcats head to Stadium.
By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor
Central Coosa also has a home game tonight, hosting Fayetteville at Cougar Stadium. However, the Cougars come into this week’s play with an 0-1 after last week’s loss at Montgomery Catholic. Kick off for all games is at 7 p.m.
BRHS freshman helps take Blue Devils to tourney win
Submitted / The Outlook
The Birmingham Blue Devils came out on top at the Georgia Back to School Tournament in Atlanta recently, going 4-0. Benjamin Russell High School freshman Desmond Bishop (No. 21) helped lead the team to the tourney title. The Birmingham Blue Devils are part of the Amateur Athletic Union Boys Basketball League.