INSIDE, PAGE 2: LOCAL POLICE REPORTS AND OBITUARIES
TUESDAY
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August 8, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 156 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢
Council approves budget, Russell land deal By MITCH SNEED Editor
Alexander City now has a budget and will move forward to purchase about 17 acres that were part of the former Russell Corp. campus. The Alexander City City Council approved passage of a $51.2 million budget for the 2016-17 fiscal year. That budget year ends on Sept. 30. The city had been operating on the previous
year’s budget after the previous council didn’t approve a budget and the current council and support staff spent nine months sorting out the city’s finances. “You have to feel good about getting this done and this along with other things, I feel like we are moving in the right direction,” said City Council President Tommy Spraggins. “Obviously passing a budget is a big step in the right direction.” The budget is about $3 million more
than the previous budget, but revenue is about 10 percent higher than last year. It also includes about $22 million in capital spending including $1.6 million for fleet replacement. The budget also allows for hiring a code enforcement officer in the police department. The department has been without one for almost four years and the duty of enforcement had been handed over to the building department. As a result, many citizens
have complained ordinances were not being enforced as tightly as they should have been. The budget would also add accounting help in the finance department, an assistant city clerk which has already been funded, the new billing manager on the fire department, a landscape technician who will work at the airport, give back a position in parks and recreation that was not filled by See COUNCIL • Page 2
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
U.S. Senator Luther Strange speaks with Alexander City residents Beth and Wesley Walker at Big B Bar-B-Que Saturday afternoon.
Luther Strange campaigns in Alexander City
WELCOME BACK Area schools back in session By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
At Jim Pearson in Alexander City, staff was on hand to welcome students with a high five or give help getting out of big truck as they arrived on campus. See more pictures inside on Page 6.
Students of all ages woke up bright and early Monday morning, got ready for the day and returned to school for another academic year. Parents dropped their children off, students made their way to their classrooms and worked to begin settling into a new routine. Despite the issues that so often arise on the first day of school, educators in the city and county systems believed Monday was a successful day for students and teachers alike. “Overall, I think today has gone very well. There have been no major issues I’ve heard of other than the usual first day things,” Alexander City Superintendent Dr. Darrell Cooper said. “The first day was smooth,” said Tallapoosa County Superintendent Joe Windle. “There were very few issues the See SCHOOL • Page 6
Strange wants to see conservative Republicans elected to U.S. Senate including himself By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
U.S. Senator Luther Strange returned to familiar roots as he passed through Tallapoosa County while campaigning. “I know this area very well,” Strange said from a booth at Big B Bar-B-Que Saturday. “My parents lived in Dadeville until they passed away.” Family is not the only connection to Tallapoosa County Strange has. “In my legal career, I represented Russell Athletic for a long time,” Strange explained. “I know the business leadership See STRANGE • Page 3
Our Town / Willow Point opens magnificent new firehouse By MITCH SNEED Editor
The Our Town / Willow Point Volunteer Fire Department welcomed the public as they celebrated the opening of their new fire station Sunday. About 200 people circulated through the event, with kids getting an up-close look at the trucks and residents getting their first look at the incredible new facility located on Elkahatchee Road. Our Town / Willow Point Volunteer Fire Department Board Chair Karen Channell talked about growth and volunteerism and said that the new firehouse was a product of both of those important qualities. “I’m asked all the time, ‘Who built this station,’” Channell said. “I tell them that you all did. This station was built and paid for by the people of
this fire district and the people of this community. That’s what’s really special about this place.” Rep. Mike Rogers, who has been instrumental in helping the department secure grants along the way, spoke about the importance of volunteer fire departments and presented the department with a flag that flew over the nation’s Capitol building. “When I pulled up I thought I was pulling up to a resort,” Rogers said. “This place is incredible. I have a lot of volunteer fire departments in my district, but I can guarantee you that we don’t have one that is as beautiful as this one is. It’s just incredible and I know that you have to be proud of what has been done here.” Channell presented Barbara Willis with a plaque that officially named the new facility Willis Station, honoring all See DEPARTMENT • Page 3
Today’s
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Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Volunteer Department Board Chair Karen Channell presents Barbara Willis with a plaque Sunday, naming the new firehouse in honor of Barbara and her husband, the late Joe Willis.
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Gym client vents her anger at bad-mouthing by trainer
Wednesday
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Staff
Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Amy Passaretti Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, Ext. 228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com
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 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. 231 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 Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) Kenneth Boone The Outlook is published five times Photography and a week, Tuesday through Saturday a commercial web mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, printing press. Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.
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Tuesday, August 8, 2017
The Outlook
© 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
Obituaries Mrs. Saundra (Pie) Deal Morrow 1941-2017
DEAR ABBY: My boyfriend and I work out at the same gym. Over the past several months it has gotten back to me that one of the trainers, “Bob,” has been talking negatively about me to some of the other members. My boyfriend works out with another trainer there, and during his workout, I approached him and his trainer and expressed my anger about what Bob was doing. I said I was fed up and that I wanted to confront him. My boyfriend told me to keep my mouth shut and say nothing. He said I shouldn’t take it personally, that Bob is just being a hater. He also said the person who told me shouldn’t have. I disagree. I don’t think it matters how it got back to me -- it did! Last week, while his regular trainer was away, my boyfriend trained with Bob! I feel it was disloyal, but he
Alexander City Police Department August 6
• Mareio Rashad Florence, 31, of Valley was arrested for two counts of failure to appear. • James Darren Welcher, 50, of Jacksons Gap was arrested for failure to appear. • Domestic violence was reported on Highway 22 East. • Theft was reported on Elkahatchee Road. • Burglary was reported in Alexander City. • Burglary was reported in the 600 block of Turner Road. • Theft was reported on Bishop Street. • Domestic violence was reported on Warren Street.
August 5
• Roger Dale Green, 49, of Alexander City was arrested for public intoxication. • Michael Wayne Cleveland, 49, of Alexander City was arrested for theft and open container of alcohol in a vehicle.
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DEAR ABBY: My wife of 55 years passed away five months ago and I am lonely. How long should I wait before
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• Domestic violence was reported on Primrose Lane. • Public Intoxication and open container of alcohol in a vehicle was reported on Rose Avenue. • Theft was reported on Alex City Shopping Center Drive. • Disorderly conduct was reported Montgomery Street. • A violation of a protection order was reported in the 1000 block of J Street. • Domestic violence was reported on Daywell Street.
August 4
• James Matthew Woodruff, 33, of Alexander City was arrested for domestic violence. • Daniel Ryan Kelly, 37, of Alexander City was arrested for domestic violence. • Terrance Demone Johnson, 32, of Alexander City was arrested for three counts of failure to appear. • Rodrick Oneal Williams, 49, of Alexander City was arrested for public intoxication. • Billy James Thompson,
43, of Alexander City was arrested for domestic violence, possession of marijuana, drug paraphernalia and unlawful possession of a concealed weapon. • Amanda Marie Boykin, 29, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. • Domestic violence was reported on Red Bud Street. • Theft was reported on Highway 280. • Domestic violence was reported on Coley Creek Road. • Theft was reported on Highway 280. • Assault was reported on I Street. • Theft was reported on Equal Club Road. • Domestic violence was reported on Central Avenue. • Public intoxication was reported on Heard Boulevard. • Possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia was reported on Dadeville Road. • Possession of drug paraphernalia was reported
Council the previous administration and add a laborer in the gas department. Personnel and benefits makes up about 37 percent of the expenses in the proposed budget. The budget passed by a
•Home-like Environment • Specialized Dementia Care Unit •Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Services
DEAR ABBY: My sister-inlaw lives in another state, so she often mails my daughter’s gifts to us after she buys the
DEAR ABBY
establishing a relationship with another woman? A certain lady and I go to church together, so we are well acquainted. I never thought about being with her until my wife died. She and my wife were friendly acquaintances. What is the right time to wait? Six months? A year? I never thought I could be lonely. Well, think again! -- READY FOR THE FUTURE DEAR READY: There’s no timetable for grieving. If you feel you are ready for companionship, all you need to do is pick up the phone and call the lady you have in mind. To do that is not disrespectful to your late wife. It’s a tribute to the happiness you experienced being part of a couple. 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.
Police Reports
Mrs. Saundra (Pie) Deal Morrow, age 76, a resident of Dothan and former resident of Alexander City, died early Sunday on her birthday, August 6, 2017, at her home after an extended illness. Mrs. Morrow was an active member of the JCets of Alexander City. Memorial contributions may be made to Ridgecrest Baptist Church, 1231 Fortner Street, Dothan, AL 36301 in her honor. Please sign the guestbook on line at www.gloverfuneral.com.
and Your Loved Ones!
disagrees. He thinks I should just let it go. What do you think? -- GYM DILEMMA DEAR GYM DILEMMA: Because the bad-mouthing has happened more than once, talk to the manager of the gym about what’s going on. Bob may not like you, but that doesn’t give him the right to make the gym an unpleasant place for clients to visit. If your boyfriend were loyal, he would have told Bob to knock it off. And he would not have worked out with him when his regular trainer was away; he would have chosen someone else.
items online. Then she expects me to wrap them. The icing on the cake? She’s now saying I need to add bows to these gifts, but she doesn’t send any money for the wrapping paper or bows. I think this is very rude. My daughter thinks her aunt takes the time to purchase these gifts, when she’s only pressing a button and that is it. With everyone shopping online more and more, is this a new trend, to have the parents wrap gifts instead of the person giving them? -- ONLINE GIFT GIVING DEAR ONLINE: It’s only a trend if you decide to let it become one. Feeling as you do, it’s time you had a discussion with your sister-in-law concerning how you feel about this arrangement and what you expect from her.
Attorney at Law 135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL
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on Jefferson Street.
Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department August 6
• Kercelia Watts of Coley Creek Road in Alexander City was arrested for probation violation and failure to appear for marijuana first. • Melvin Anderson of Cole Street in Alexander City was arrested for probation violation.
August 5
• Carlton Goodman of Pleasant Circle in Opelika was arrested on an outstanding warrant for probation violation. • A resident of Hilltop Road in Jacksons Gap filed a report for theft of property.
August 4
• Christopher Kidd of J Street in Alexander City was arrested for probation violation, probation, revocation and failure to appear for child support. • A resident of Papoose Drive in Jacksons Gap filed a report for theft of property.
continued from page 1
unanimous 6-0 vote. While the budget passage is seen as a big step in the right direction, the purchase of a large parcel of land for future economic development was the item that caught the most attention. The parcel is mostly along Lee Street, parcels that were home to the No. 3, No. 3 Annex and the No. 4 mills. The city will pay $360,000 for the property and the seller, Saucier Investments agrees to have the property cleared within 60 days. When asked by Spraggins what cleared means, Community Development Director Al Jones clarified that part of the contract. “It’s my understanding that it means that there will be nothing left above the ground, on the ground or under the ground that would impede future development in any way, shape or form,” Jones said. “I’m told that will have that
done within 60 days from when we sign the contract. I’ve talked to them and they are confident they can do it in 60 days.” The move will give the city control of the old Russell Main Office and then the area that stretches across 5th Way, meaning there is a lot of road frontage along that gateway to the city. The agreement to allow Mayor Jim Nabors to execute the purchase contract was approved by a 6-0 vote of the council. The Council also approved by unanimous vote: • A resolution to appoint persons to the Industrial Development Board. Those appointed were Barbara Sokol, Daniel Yates, Kristen Powell, Jacob Meacham, Jim Boleware and Brianna Smith. • A resolution to approve the mayor to enter into a contract with B.A.S.S. Nation for an amount not to exceed $4,000, no meal and a maximum of three rooms for lodging. • A resolution to autho-
rize the Mayor to enter into a contract with ASABA for an amount not to exceed $5,000, no meal and a maximum of three rooms for lodging. This is to bring a student bass fishing tournament to the area. • A resolution to approve requisition 17-14, 17-15 and 17-16 for fleet. This means that a Skid Steer at a price of $57,364, a mini excavator priced at $107,168 and a Cat Dozer valued at $97,525 will be purchased from Thompson Tractor of Opelika. • A resolution to approve requisition 17-17 to purchase annual chemicals for Adams and Waste Water Treatment. • A resolution to approve requisition 17-18 for the Light Department. This is for a Digger/Derrick truck valued at $239,123 from ALTEC Industries of Birmingham. • A request to approve the receipt of funds to enclose half of the covered batting cages located at the Sportplex. It was also announced that the council will hold a work session on Aug. 16 at 4 p.m. in the conference room of city hall to listen to a presentation from Retail Strategies of Birmingham.
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Tuesday, August 8, 2017
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Department the work done by Barbara and her late husband Joe. Sunday’s event was a day of celebration, as residents dined on hot dogs and marveled at the new facility. The department was formed when the two departments, one formed by Fred Dobbs in 1975 and Our Town that was formed in 1985 merged in 1987. All the people who went above and beyond to help make the station a reality were honored. Among those were former Alexander City Mayor and Tallapoosa County Commissioner Charles Shaw. As a commissioner, Shaw donated $50,000 of discretionary money that served as seed money to get the process rolling. Realtor Paige Patterson was cited for her help in making the property purchase happen and Tim Wisham, a retired firefighter, was also singled out for all of his hard work on the project, by department board member Dan Bryson. “No matter whatever had to be done, he was there to do it,” Bryson said. “We wouldn’t be where we are today without all of his hard work.” Bryson also singled out Chief Larry Boddie for his leadership and Channell who “made this station her mission and found a way to get it done.”
continued from page 1
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
The front tower of the new Our Town / Willow Point Volunteer Department gives a great first impression. Rep. Mike Rogers, who has helped the department secure grant funds, was on hand to talk about the importance of volunteer departments and present a flag that flew over the Capitol in Washington for the station. Those in attendance dined on hot dogs and took a look at trucks and photos that showed the department through its history.
Strange
continued from page 1
here well. I know the community leadership in Alexander City and Tallapoosa County.” Strange is seeking election to the U.S. Senate and says he is running on his record. “I am running because I am a common sense conservative who gets things done,” Strange said. “My record as (Alabama) attorney general shows me winning cases against the Obama administration and draining the swamp in Montgomery with the conviction of the speaker of the house and two dozen other public officials. I have a proven record of getting things done, that distinguishes me from the others running.” Strange is also proud of his endorsements from the NRA, the National Right to Life Committee and the Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA). Strange faces eight other Republican candidates, James Beretta, Joseph Breault, Mo Brooks, Mary Maxwell, Roy Moore, Bryan Peeples and Trip Pittman in the special election primary Aug. 15 to replace Jeff Sessions, who was appointed U.S. Attorney General. Strange was appointed to the U.S. Senate by former Alabama Governor Robert Bentley while serving as attorney general. He has a record in Washington, D.C., something he spoke on while having lunch Saturday. “I loved being attorney general and I am honored to have taken Jeff Sessions’ place,” Strange said. “I have tried to bring some common sense conservative solutions to Washington. It definitely needs that.
“I am proudest so far of voting to confirm Neal Gorsuch, a strong conservative, to the Supreme Court. Then confirming President Trump’s cabinet and promoting his agenda.” If elected, Strange wants to continue the course he has already started. “I want to support the President’s agenda which means repealing and replacing the disastrous Obamacare,” Strange said. “Secondly is to bring tax relief to the working people of this country and state which they desperately need. Thirdly is to support the President’s infrastructure plan to rebuild our country and put America first.” Strange points to his committee appointments as another reason to vote for him. “I am on the ag committee,” Strange said. “I am the first senator to be on the ag committee in over 20 years. I am on the armed services committee, which supports our military. That is critical to Alabama. “I am a strong supporter of the F-35 in Montgomery. I am a strong supporter of Redstone Arsenal and our missile defense system. I am a strong supporter of the LCS ships that are built in Mobile.” Strange said he also serves on the “energy and budget committees which are important to our state and country.” “My agenda is to help improve our economy, so that Alabamians have higher paying jobs and we get out of this disastrous Obama economy,” Strange said. “I think President Trump has a plan for that and I support that.”
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Though Strange has only been in four months, he is proud of a bill he has sponsored. “I have been very focused in trying to help the President fulfill his promise to build the wall between U.S. and Mexico,” Strange said. “I introduced a bill that is gaining support to make sanctuary cities help pay for it if they won’t enforce our immigration laws.” Strange’s bill gives the Attorney General “additional tools by expanding the definition of sanctuary jurisdictions to cities that are penalizing local businesses for bidding to work on the border wall. It would also allow the administration to reallocate federal transportation grant funds from these jurisdictions toward the completion of the border wall.” The bill also makes law enforcement grant funding contingent upon “certification that a state or municipality is not willfully refusing to comply with federal law,” in particular federal immigration laws. Strange explained the problem with what some
have described as chaos in Washington, D.C. and the White House. “We have a 50-vote problem in the Senate,” Strange said. “We don’t
have 50 conservative Republicans who will vote to do what they said they would do. We saw that with Obamacare.” Strange has a solution to
the chaos. “We have to elect more conservative Republicans,” Strange said. “I don’t think we are going to win until we do that.”
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EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
www.alexcityoutlook.com
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Our
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Outlook The
How to lose a man in 10 days
Your voice can S be heard loudly
L
ast week we learned that city leaders are facing some big decisions, especially on involving the former Russell Main Office. People often complain that governmental decisions get made before they know anything about the issue. But this time the city asked for the opinion of the people and you stepped up big time. A total of 328 comments, 12 emails and 14 instant messages that included almost 7,000 words were sent in one way or another to the Outlook on the matter. That was overwhelming. Those comments will be passed along to city leaders for their consideration as they move forward. That is what we have been saying all along. Your voice does matter, you just have to express it. You can do that any time right here on this page with a letter to the editor. The Outlook is looking for well thought out letters of opinion. It does not matter if anyone agrees with you. Get involved and make your opinion on issues you feel strongly about known. We will even let you do that through the newspaper. If you have something to say about any of these questions, then the answer is a letter to the editor or a guest column. This newspaper’s editorial page is an open forum for our community and we encourage you to write us and make your opinion known. It’s free. If you need help writing, our editors will be happy to help you craft a letter. Our rules are simple: no cussin’, no libel, no slander. Basically, if you’d say it around the dinner table with your grandmother, it’s probably acceptable as a letter to the editor. So let’s get the conversation started. What’s on your mind? Write us at editor@ alexcityoutlook.com or Editor, The Alexander City Outlook, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
eason One of “Survivor: Trump White House” has been nonstop fun. In this week’s episode: Spicer out. Reince Priebus out. Anthony Scaramucci in, then out. Scaramucci was brought in to get rid of leaks and clean up the White House. Trump reasoned that a Scaramucci from New York should know how to protect a Don. But he didn’t last long. I am not one for long political honeymoons, but the job of a White House Communications Director should last longer than a carton of milk. In the wildest episode of “The Apprentice” yet, Trump goes after Reince Priebus, a man whose name sounds like a carwash for hybrids. Priebus is the establishment do nothing, “go along to get along” Republican that Trump is “draining the swamp” of. Just when I learned how to spell his name, Reince Priebus is ousted. Attorney General Jeff Sessions is in the crosshairs too, which is unfortunate because Sessions and Priebus look like father/son dentists. Trump is nothing if not loyal. He takes care of his people. He is already in discussion to get Priebus and Scaramucci spots on “The Apprentice” or “Dancing with the Stars,” whichever one is filming now. Do not expect too much post-termination public “kiss and tell.” Priebus’ post-firing interview looked like a Kim Jung Un video orchestration of a captured American. America wanted a businessman president, and this is what it looks like. Without a party behind him, he is on his own and is one of us. All this drama tramples the
RON HART Columnist
message of an otherwise good week for Trump. Foxconn, the Asian maker of Apple products, announced that it is opening a $10 billion plant in Wisconsin. The stock market reached new highs, with S&P 500 companies reporting two consecutive quarters of double digit earnings — the first time in six years. Yet the unnecessary palace intrigue will be the distraction the media use to divert public attention from all the good real news. And the tumult is over frustration with the non-factbased Russian probe. If and when the Trumps are — or were ever — in negotiations with Russians, they could only be over a mail order bride. Don Jr’s “small private meeting” with that Russian honey-pot has turned out to be another nothing. Nine people crowded into the (not-so) “secret” meeting. CNN is not giving up, and is now looking at getting them arrested for fire code violations. Trump had a fledgling good relationship with Putin that the Democrats, for political reasons, have sabotaged. Now tensions escalate with Russia, and Putin has ordered 755 U.S. diplomatic personnel expelled from his country. Democrats are perfectly willing to risk World War III with Russia in order to hurt Trump and score political points. It all comes down to the media willing to decimate their integrity to “get” this
president. A media which had in November already commissioned plans for the Hillary Clinton Presidential Library still have not gotten over their loss. They daily seek to destroy this president in what Ben Stein calls a “media coup,” like what they did to Nixon. I think Taylor Swift will get closure sooner than the media. This animus might backfire. If Jeff Sessions can take a hint, Hillary and the DNC under Debbie Wasserman Schultz could get indicted for real crimes. Trouble follows the Clintons; the day they were born the doctors slapped them with subpoenas. As a result, Republicans are quivering, even though they have the House, Senate and Oval Office. Now Repubs say if we give them the Knesset and the British Parliament in 2018, they will do something. Spineless Republicans could not get enough votes to even “skinny down” ObamaCare. Yes, these brave men and women like Senators Collins, Murkowski and McCain were fine about voting for repeal when they knew Obama would be there to veto it. But Obama is not there anymore. He is body surfing with Richard Branson in Bali. That’s perfect for Obama; body surfing is a sport where you do not have to stand for anything. You just lie there and let other forces push you along — just like the insurance and healthcare lobbies pushed along ObamaCare. A syndicated op-ed humorist, award-winning author and TV/ radio commentator, you can reach him at Ron@RonaldHart. com or Twitter @RonaldHart.
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. 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.
Daily Poll Weekend Question: If you were former Central Coosa head football coach Barry Simmons, would you have chosen family or football?
Family — 95%, 40 votes Football — 5%, 2 votes
Tuesday Question: Do you think the city buying 17 acres in the former Russell Corp. complex is a good idea? 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
Opinion?
Letters to the Editor I loved Mitch Sneed’s idea of making the old Russell Main Office Building into a museum. This is an historic landmark and should not be destroyed. I am sure there are thousands of people in Alabama who have worn Russell athletic jerseys, sweatshirts, etc. or worked at one of the factories. When my husband and I first visited Alexander City in 1995, Russell was still a huge presence in the city. When we moved here in 1998, it was still a large
Dear Editor,
Tom Whatley
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operation. Then seemingly almost overnight people were out of work and various sections were closing – a sad time for Alexander City. Then the buildings became rubble and no one seemed to know what to do with all that property. I hated seeing some of the really historical past such as “Old #1” disappear. Operation Downtown has been working hard to bring history back to the downtown area by uncovering original storefronts, adding new businesses and renovating buildings. Thus to me, it makes a lot of sense to keep the Main
Office and use it as a draw for the area. Having it house the history of Russell Mills and – yes – at least one room dedicated to “the history of women’s underwear.” (Way to go, Kenneth Boone, for that suggestion. My husband’s one addition to this idea is “Where do we find a 100 year old pair of bloomers for the display.”) I sincerely hope that Alexander City residents will get behind the idea of saving and preserving this historic landmark. Diana French Alexander City
Even after 16 years, Al Gore won’t let go! Mark Tuggle
“For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.” —1 Timothy 6:7-8
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The subscription rate is $136.00 per year in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and $177.99 outside the area. Periodicals paid at Alexander City, AL. Newspapers are available at 100 news racks in our area at 75 cents for The Outlook and 50 cents for The Record. We would love to deliver a paper to your door. Call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281, Ext. 204 or e-mail david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook. com.
Russell Main Office building should become a museum Kay Ivey
Today’s
How to
Officials 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.
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“Opportunity is missed by most people, because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” —Thomas Edison
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.
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Today’s
This was posted, August 5, 2017. Appearing on a live cable talk show on HBO, Al Gore is still saying that he actually carried Florida back in 2000 & consequently, was “cheated” out of the Presidency by George W. Bush! The U.S. Supreme disagreed and ordered a continuous recount stopped resulting in a Bush win by a mere 537 votes in Fl. Furthermore, the left wing media was so bent
on making Gore the winner that they conducted extensive research after the Court decision and Bush was sworn in hoping to find that Gore did, in fact, win. Commissioned by USA Today, the hunt for a winning result for Gore actually found that had the Supreme Court not intervened and let the recount of “hanging chads” continue, Bush would have won by more that three times the initial count! But Gore just can’t let go. He will no doubt go to his grave avowing he actually won. He is 69 years old.
I think we are seeing the same scenario taking place with the ridiculous Russian Meddling uproar. In the future we can count on democrats always claiming the Hillary actually won & was cheated out of it by the Russians. Not even an once of truth in that but, of course, it is a good excuse for her failure to win and is playing well to the democratic base. James W. Anderson Talladega
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!
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Tuesday, August 8, 2017
The Outlook
CommunityCalendar Need Insurance? Call me.
Today is August 8, 2017 Today’s Events
CHURCH REVIVAL: Haven Memorial United Methodist Church is hosting revival services August 7-9
at 7 p.m. nightly with senior pastor Percy. L. Nolan Jr.
Today’s Birthdays
Jerry Blake, Gloria Adams, Rev. John Dye Jr., Wayne Reed, Chad Claybrooks, Steve Hilderbrant, Cameron Wilson, Irene Stoffregen,
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Submit calendar items:
Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/. Amelia Whetstone, MaeDell Patrick, Mattie Leonard and Larry Marbury are celebrating their birthdays today.
Today’s Anniversaries
Preston and Glenda Masters and Barry and Jane Morris celebrate their anniversaries today.
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“WE’RE THE PROFESSIONALS” Submitted / The Outlook
Cliff Clegg, Jr. of Alexander City was recently awarded the Forest Conservationist of the Year Award at the 2017 Alabama Wildlife Federation Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards banquet. The Alabama Wildlife Federation (AWF) held the banquet, co-sponsored by Alabama Power Company and PowerSouth Energy on Friday at The Marriott Legends at Capitol Hill in Prattville. Presenting the award was Horace Horn with PowerSouth Energy; Angus Cooper III, AWF President; Governor Kay Ivey and Susan Comensky with Alabama Power Company.
August 9-11
CHURCH REVIVAL: Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Dadeville is hosting annual revival services August 9-11 at 7 p.m. Rev. G.H. Gulliam is pastor and evangelist for the week is Rev. Carlos Speed of Faithful Baptist Church in Columbus.
August 11-12
AL 96175
CARLISLE
REGISTRATION FOR YOUTH SOCCER: Registration for the Alexander City Youth Soccer recreational league will be held this week at the Sportplex gym. Times to register are from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. The league is open to players ages 3 and up, and the cost is $60. If a child did not play last season, he or she will need a birth certificate. Games will begin after Labor Day and run through September and October. For more information, contact Josh Tucker at 256-496-2241 or visit www. alexcitysoccer.com.
Saturday, August 12
HEATING & CHURCH FESTIVAL: Centerview AIR CONDITIONING Baptist Church County Road 89 in
Come Visit Us!
Camp Hill is hosting a church festival Saturday, Aug. 12 starting at 9 a.m. There will be fun, food and games for everyone. The pastor is Rev. J. Harrison. CLASS REUNION: Laurel High School Class of 1969’s 50th year reunion meeting on the second Saturday of every other month starting August 12 at 10 a.m. at the Cooper Recreation Center. For any questions, please contact Abber Dean Shelton at 256-329-3234 between 6 and 9 p.m. POOL PARTY: The Camp Fire Girls are having a registration party at the city pool August 12 from 10 a.m. to noon. CLASS REUNION: The Dadeville High School Class of 1977 are requested to appear at Judy’s Stagecoach Restaurant & Saloon at 8276 County Rd 34 Aug. 12 at 5 p.m. for pictures, drinks and dinner. Come as you are and stay for a picture or longer. Those wishing to have dinner, please make a reservation for “reunion” by calling 256-307-1466, or you may not have a seat.
Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing
Sunday, August 13
367 US H W Y . 280 A L E X A N D E R C I T Y , AL
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Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy 2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
PRECIOUS MEMORIES GIFTS & MORE
SINGING: Mt. Sinai Baptist Church is hosting the Traveling Harrells Anniversary August 13 at 3 p.m. CHURCH HOMECOMING: Sardis United Methodist Church will be hosting services celebrating its 180th Homecoming August 13 at 10 a.m. with lunch to follow at noon. The church is located at 10367 Highway 50 in Dadeville. Musical guest will be Jordan River.
August 14-20
CHRISTIAN GENERAL Monogramming onogramming ASSEMBLY: New Covenant Boutique outique CClothing lothing Ministries of the World, Inc. is hosting its annual Christian General Assembly Jewelry ewelry themed “Principles and Doctrine for Bathing athing SSuits uits the Perfecting of the Saints,” August 14-20 at the Liberty Life Center at 243 & More More
10147 County Road 34 Dadeville, AL
256-496-4017
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.
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 hosting a yard and bake sale Friday, August 18 from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday, August 19 from 6 a.m. to noon in the Family Life Center. All proceeds go to the building fund.
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, corn hole 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. TRADE DAY: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends Monthly Trade Day in Millerville on Highway 9 between Ashland and Goodwater will be held on August 19 from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Refreshments are also available. YARD SALE: Marshall Street Church is hosting a yard and bake sale Friday, August 18 from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturday, August 19 from 6 a.m. to noon in the Family Life Center. All proceeds go to the building fund.
Sunday, August 20
CHURCH HOMECOMING: The New Adka Missionary Baptist Church is hosting homecoming Sunday, August 20 at 11 a.m.
August 21-23
CHURCH REVIVAL: New Adka Missionary Baptist Church is hosting its annual revival services August 21-23 at 7 p.m. nightly. Guest minister will be Rev. MacArthur Moss. Edward Milner is pastor.
August 22-24
CITY WIDE REVIVAL: The Alex City Ministerial Association is hosting a city wide revival at the GAP Fellowship Church August 22-24 at 6:30 p.m. On Tuesday, Rev. Josh Sammons of Hillabee Baptist Church, Wednesday will be Bishop W.T. Traylor of Liberty Life Christian Center and Thursday Rev. Mike Jackson of Flint Hill United Methodist Church.
Thursday, August 24
UNDERAGE DRINKING FOCUS GROUP: The East Alabama Mental Health Center in Dadeville at 287
North Tallassee Street is hosting an underage drinking and substance abuse focus group August 24 at 6 p.m. Questions can be directed to 334742-2112 or prevention@eamhc.org.
Saturday, August 26
STARGAZING: The Auburn Astronomical Society will set up telescopes to look at the night sky Aug. 26 at 6 p.m. on Hospice Point near the silo at Wind Creek State Park.
Sunday, August 27
CHURCH HOMECOMING: River Road Baptist Church at 148 Dean Road is hosting a homecoming Sunday, Aug. 27 at 10 a.m. with Rebecca Futral and ‘Just One’ in concert. A love offering will be taken. A covered dish lunch will be served at noon. Margaret Thornton is music director and Dr. Albert Pike is pastor. Everyone is invited.
Monday, August 28
The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow
MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION: The Alex City Area Ministerial Association is hosting a dinner for ministers and spouses August 28 at 6:30 p.m. at Marshall Street Church of God. The meal will be a choice between pork chop or chicken with two vegetables, dessert and drink. The cost is $15 per person. Please respond ASAP to Pastor Mike Waldrop at radcom2jc@gmail com or leave a message at 256-392-4950.
The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for Weekend Shifts in Direct Care.
Thursday, September 7
SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP: The Trinity Campus of First United Methodist Church is hosting a divorce support group Sept. 7 from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. to focus on helping separated and divorced individuals get through the difficulties of a broken marriage. The group will meet every Thursday through Oct. 19. PTSD SUPPORT GROUP: The Trinity Campus of the First United Methodist Church is hosting a post traumatic stress support group starting Sept. 7 and every Thursday through Oct. 19 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The group is for anyone who needs support in dealing with post traumatic stress.
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
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700
Saturday, September 23
STARGAZING: The Auburn Astronomical Society will set up telescopes to look at the night sky Sept. 23 at 6 p.m. on Hospice Point near the silo at Wind Creek State Park.
Saturday, October 14
CAR SHOW: The 37th Annual Custom Car Show at Oktoberfest will be Oct. 14 with registration from 8 a.m. to noon. It is an open show format with a money tree. All cars will be parked on asphalt. For more information contact Danny Pike at 256-496-0024 or danny.pike@alexandercityal.gov.
haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
dB
Lawn Care Darrell Brooks, Owner Cutting •Edging Weed Eating •Mulch Weed Control
Saturday, October 21
STARGAZING: The Auburn Astronomical Society will set up telescopes to look at the night sky Oct. 21 at 5 p.m. on Hospice Point near the silo at Wind Creek State Park.
256.267.0518
www.alexcityoutlook.com
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Tuesday, August 8, 2017
The Outlook
WELCOME BACK
Area schools celebrate the first day back to school
Local school information Alexander City Schools Jim Pearson Elementary School: (256)234-8625 Principal: Jamie Forbus Assistant Principal: Windy Eldred School Starts: 7:40 a.m.; Dismisses: 2:25 p.m.
Stephens Elementary School: (256)234-8631 Principal: April Neese Assistant Principal: Jon Owens School Starts: 7:40 a.m., Dismisses: 2:50 p.m.
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Horseshoe Bend School Pre-K lead teacher Linda Daniel, left, and co-teacher Carrie Patterson, right, sort books in the Pre-K classroom last Wednesday in preparation for the first day of school.
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Parents and children walk into Jim Pearson Elementary School carrying school supplies for the first day of school on Monday.
Radney Elementary School: (256)234-8636 Principal: Dr. John Prestridge Assistant Principal: Dr. Mary Holloway School Starts: 7:40 a.m., Dismisses: 2:45 p.m.
Alexander City Middle School: (256)234-8660 Principal: Tracie Blakely Assistant Principal: Shannon Benefield School Starts: 7:35 a.m., Dismisses: 3:15 p.m.
Benjamin Russell High School: (256)234-8611 Principal: Dr. Anthony Wilkinson Assistant Principals: Nicholas Davis, Kelli Kelly, Tracy McGhee School Starts: 7:35 a.m., Dismisses: 3:15 p.m.
Meal prices: Breakfast- $1.25 (Elementary Schools) $1.75 (Middle and High Schools) $1.75 (Faculty and Staff ), $0.30 reduced price Lunch- $2.15 (Elementary Schools), $2.50 (Middle and High Schools) $3.15 (Faculty and Staff ), $0.40 reduced price
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Left: 12-year-old King Nahh, a motivational speaker and rising author from Newark, New Jersey, speaks at the GAP Fellowship Church Back to School Explosion on Saturday. Right: Camden Charter plays Rock, Paper, Scissors with King Nahh.
Tallapoosa County Schools Dadeville Elementary School: (256)825-6811 Principal: Dr. Chris Dark Assistant Principal: Rance Kirby
School Starts: 7:40 a.m.; Dismisses: 3 p.m. Dadeville High School: (256)825-7848 Principal: Chris Hand Assistant Principal: Pamela Holloway School Starts: 7:30 a.m.; Dismisses: 3:05 p.m. Horseshoe Bend School: (256)329-9110 Principal: James Aulner Assistant Principal: Karen McMath School Starts: 7:35 a.m.; Dismisses: 3:06 p.m. Reeltown Elementary School: (334)257-3784 Principal: Pam Langford Assistant Principal: Lisa Hornsby School Starts: 7:45 a.m.; Dismisses: 3 p.m. Reeltown High School: (334)257-1670 Principal: Tom Cochran Assistant Principal: John Wilcox School Starts: 7:35 a.m.; Dismisses: 3:05 p.m. Edward Bell Career Tech Center: (256)896-0160 Principal: Chad McKelvey Director of Career Technical Programs: Fred Ford Meal prices: Breakfast- $1.25 for students $2 for faculty and staff, $0.30 reduced price Lunch- $2.25 for students $3 for faculty and staff, $0.40 reduced price
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Left: Dadeville Elementary School fourth-grader Penny Daniel picks up her lunch tray on the first day of school Monday. Right: Students learn the ways of the hall at Dadeville Elementary School.
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Traffic was backed up along Scott Road in Alexander City as parents transported their youngsters to Jim Pearson for the first day of school. Most parents parked and walked their children into class to make sure their little ones were all settled in.
School principals saw today.” Both Cooper and Windle spent portions of their Monday going to the different schools in their respective systems, taking a personal look at how students across the board were adjusting to being back in the classroom. “I talked to teachers and principals, and everything seemed to be going well,” Cooper said. The biggest issue he foresaw was the bus transportation in the afternoon, especially with students who have to transfer buses at Stephens Elementary School. “After the first few days, this will smooth out. We want to make sure everyone gets home safely,” he said. In the county, Windle saw a number of parents in the schools registering their students, but there were no major problems he witnessed
continued from page 1
while out and about. “Transportation and student schedules are the two main issues you usually face,” he said. “No transportation issues have been reported, and that’s good news. “I got a text from one of our principals, telling me today went as smooth as silk. Another one texted me and said this was the best opening he’s ever had.” The two new principals in the Alexander City system both felt their first day with students back was positive. “I think it’s gone great today,” Radney Elementary School Principal Dr. John Prestridge said. “There were a couple little hiccups you expect from the first day, but our faculty and staff have handled it greatly.” “Today has been a busy day,” said Alexander City
Middle School Principal Tracie Blakely. “It’s been pretty good for a first day.” Blakely and Prestridge agreed that there had been some small issues to deal with, including parents trying to register their students and students needing assistance in getting to their classrooms during transitions, but these would be ironed out as the daily routine becomes perfected over the next few days. The principals felt that the teachers had done an excellent job in helping guide the students to their classrooms and assisting with whatever help children may have required in addition to being ready for the year. Further help came from additional staff on hand to aid in various tasks, including helping the kindergartners at Jim Pearson Elementary
School get used to the new routine of eating lunch at school, according to Cooper. “I’m thankful for the staff and all their hard work,” he said. Even though there were some small issues the city and county schools had to handle throughout the day, everyone was in agreement that Monday marked a successful first day of what would hopefully be a fun and exciting school year. “It’s a pleasure to get up and come to work each day. It’s great to see the students back,” Prestridge said. “I feel the students are excited about being back in school,” Blakely said. “There were a lot of smiling and excited faces I saw today,” said Cooper. “I saw a lot of excitement and a lot of enthusiasm,” Windle added.
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
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The Outlook
Let’s Set Sail! All About Boats Word Search
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Co Connect onnect t The Dots To See The Boat
Find The 8 Differences Barge, Boat, Bow, Canoe, Captain, Cruise, On The Deck, Hull, Kayak, Keel, Port, Rowboat, Rudder, Sailboat, Ship, Starboard, Stern, Submarine, Cruise Ship Tugboat, Yacht
Follow The Directions To Make Your Own Paper Boat
A Special Thank You To All Our Sponsors! Marina: 256.825.6871 Chuckwalla’s Pizza: 256.825.7733
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New & Used Boats • Yamaha Waverunners Yamaha Golf Carts • Full-Service Marina & Service Center • Wet Slips & Dry Storage
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ZAJAC’S THOMAS AUTO PARTS
793 Airport Road Alexander City, AL
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AUTO PARTS
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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
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3368 Hwy. 280 Suite 220 [ Alexander City, AL Connected to Russell Medical Center in the Professional Bldg. on the 2nd Floor in Suite 220
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MAGGIN EDWARDS, MANAGER 5639 Elmore Road•Elmore, AL•334-567-0446 Toll Free 1-800-246-0220
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Kim Russell, Administrator 385 E. LaFayette St., Dadeville 256.825.9244
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.
DADEVILLE HEALTHCARE CENTER
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Tuesday, August 8, 2017
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LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
DAYS UNTIL FOOTBALL
lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
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Page 11
Games to Watch
LUKE ROBINSON Columnist
A few thoughts ahead of college football
A
nother assorted random batch of miscellaneous musings…. • Alabama’s D’Shawn Hand gets a DUI because he had been drinking and was asleep in his car and doesn’t get suspended (but will be punished internally). A Florida State wide receiver was busted on five felony charges and was suspended. Folks, these are the correct respective consequences. Not all DUIs are created equal. Not all crimes are created equal. • The Alabama and Auburn men’s basketball teams will be travelling to Canada and Italy, respectively, for preseason tours. I know two of the three ’Bama games will be livestreamed (one was last night, by the way) and if AU is broadcasting theirs, I highly suggest you check them all out. • FYI, there were approximately 2,500 people at Alabama Football’s Fan Day last Saturday; there were approximately that many people for Alabama’s open basketball practice last week. I dig that. A lot. As Coach Avery Johnson reminds us on Twitter, “Buckle Up.” • Bold prediction: Bo Scarbrough will not lead Alabama in rushing in 2017. His injury history coupled with other viable options like Damien Harris, Najee Harris and Jalen Hurts just make me think he won’t get enough carries to take the team lead. • Saturday night, the Altee Girls’ Softball Team from Virginia defeated its opponents from Kirkland, Washington in the Junior League World Series. All participants are in their pre-or-early teens, by the way. In what is certainly a sad sign of the times, a few members of the winning team posted a Snapchat picture of their making an obscene gesture directed at the girls from Kirkland. Immediately, the Altee coach had the girls removed the picture and apologize to the Kirkland team in person. It wasn’t enough. The Altee team was disqualified and therefore Kirkland moves on to the semifinals of the tournament. I have to admit I am torn; I understand the need to teach the girls a lesson by removing them from competition after such a classless act. However, I am sympathetic to their teammates who didn’t participate in taking the picture. Also, these girls will not get this time in their lives back — this opportunity is once in a lifetime. Maybe the saddest part of this entre story is that in this day of Lavar Ball-types dominating headlines, I am not surprised that sportsmanship is so lost on the younger generation. Luke Robinson is a regular columnist and contributor to Lake Martin Living and BMetro.
Early games to set tone for Reeltown By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
If Matt Johnson is asked which game is most important on Reeltown’s football schedule, he’ll pretty much always give the same answer: “The next one.” This year, that means Notasulga is the first game the Rebels have circled on their calendar, and the tone could be set early this season. Reeltown came out of the first two weeks without a win last year, so getting off to a good start could be key for the highlyanticipated Rebels. Week Zero: Notasulga Blue Devils Although this isn’t a region game, Notasulga and Reeltown sit less than 10 miles apart, and the Rebels have no more familiar opponent than the Blue Devils. The teams have met 66 times over the years, and Reeltown has won 40 of those matchups. After taking a two-year hiatus, Reeltown hosted Notasulga last year and the Blue Devils came out with a 25-6 victory to start the season. Expectations are fairly high for both teams. Notasulga returns all-state wide receiver Walter Tatum and is coming off a postseason appearance, but the Rebels bring back some of their best skill players in Tre Hughley and Eric Shaw. Although this is a road trip, fans can expect a good crowd to kick off the 2017 season. Week One: Dadeville Tigers It seems impossible to talk about Reeltown’s football season without mentioning Dadeville. This rivalry game fills the stands, and it helps that it’ll be played on Thursday night so even more area football fans can make their way down to Reeltown. The Rebels have beaten Dadeville just twice in the last 10 years and both of those wins have come by a touchdown or less. On the flip side, the Tigers have had big victories over Reeltown, especially in the last two years. Much of Dadeville’s success last year came thanks to Margarius Buchanan, so there are some questions surrounding
File / The Outlook
Reeltown’s Eric Shaw (6) brings down a Ranburne player during last year’s games. Ranburne is one of the top three games to watch for the Rebels this season.
the Tigers’ possibilities this year. Both teams are still deciding about their starting quarterbacks, and this game could come down to which squad worked out its earlyseason jitters better in Week Zero. Week Six: Ranburne Bulldogs Although Ranburne finished with just a 2-8 record last season, it was a powerhouse in Region 3 Class 2A since it returned in 2015. For some reason, this matchup always seems to be a good one. The last three meetings have been decided by less than a touchdown, and Reeltown had a come-
from-behind victory last season, taking its first lead of the game with just four minutes remaining. Like the Rebels, Ranburne returns some of its top skill players in running backs Sam Calvert and Aaron Benefield and wide receivers Landon Woodard and Jake Burson but the Bulldogs also graduated their quarterback. The Ranburne game marks the halfway point of Reeltown’s region schedule and also is one of the final games at home as Reeltown travels for three of its last four outings.
Reeltown Rebels Date Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 8 Sept. 15 Sept. 22 Sept. 29 Oct. 6 Oct. 13 Oct. 20 Oct. 27 Nov. 2
Opponent Notasulga Dadeville Woodland Horseshoe Bend Lanett Bye Ranburne LaFayette Vincent Fayetteville Loachapoka
Place Away Home Home Away Home N/A Home Away Away Home Away
Region Non-region Non-region Region 5 Region 5 Region 5 N/A Region 5 Region 5 Region 5 Region 5 Non-region
Last Year L 25-6 L 48-21 W 42-6 W 26-19 L 41-0 N/A W 20-17 L 58-8 W 40-15 W 52-42 W 33-27
Football practice officially begins By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook
Above: Dadeville coach Richard White talks to his team before the start of the first official practice on Monday. Bottom left: Horseshoe Bend Head Football Coach Josh Averett looks at form as players do pushups to loosen up before the start of drills. Bottom right: Players work on getting off blocks during defensive drills Monday at BRHS.
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
After a long summer of workouts, 7-on7s, team camps and conditioning, football practice has officially begun in Alabama. And this year, it came with some unusual circumstances. First of all, this was the first time in recent memory the first day of football practice coincided with the first day of school. “One good thing is you don’t have to worry about players not being there,” Benjamin Russell coach Danny Horn said. “If you didn’t have school, some would be late or some might not show up. But of course, we used to do two-a-days but now you can’t really do that. It was kinda unusual, but it was OK.” Having the two fall on the same day did quickly get players into a routine. That routine will change a bit, though, as the AHSAA regulates how much time players must spend in shorts and helmets prior to putting on the pads. The first two days are helmets only followed by two days of shoulder pads before Friday when players can wear full pads. “The first day of practice now is not as big a deal as it used to be because you’re (wearing) the same thing you have been all summer,” Reeltown coach Matt Johnson said. “But now, when you add in the first day of practice and the first day of school, we’re getting our routine down.” For Dadeville, it was a new feeling, though. The Tigers’ helmets just arrived late Sunday night, so they weren’t able to accomplish as much as coach Richard White would’ve hoped during the summer. Another odd theme in the area is low numbers. Horseshoe Bend had 44 between varsity and JV with about 20 of those as anticipated varsity players. Benjamin See PRACTICE • Page 12
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Tuesday, August 8, 2017
The Outlook
Practice
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Russell had the lowest number in Horn’s tenure with 66, and Dadeville also had a much lower roster size than usual with just 40 on the first day. “Kids just don’t want to commit to hard work and what it takes to be a football player,” White said. “Hopefully down the road somewhere, there will be a tick in those kids’ heads and we’ll have our numbers get back where they’re supposed to be.” Coaches like Horn and Johnson weren’t too worried about their numbers, though. “We can only play 11 at time,” Horn said. “I’ve won Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook a lot of championships with Left: Reeltown’s Tre O’Neal readies for a handoff during the first football practice. Right: Reeltown’s Eric Shaw makes a catch at practice. 35 or 40 players, so it is what it is.” The air surrounding football was also a bit different, quite literally. While many coaches and players are used to sweltering heat and sluggish humidity, the first day of practice barely touched 90 degrees and the humidity stayed relatively low. Most coaches hope that changes, though. “(The weather) started bearing down in July a bit, but overall for the summer, it wasn’t bad at all,” Johnson said. “I’m interested to see what these Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook next couple weeks bring and I’m hoping it does Mitch Sneed / The Outlook Dadeville lineman Ab Abernathy pushes a sled during the first Horseshoe Bend players run through drills during Day 1. day of football practice. bring a little bit of heat so we can really start getting that conditioning going when we put these pads on.” White said, “It can be a good thing if it stays like this, but if it turns out hot the week of the game, we’re not going to be used to it. Hopefully we’ll have a little hotter weather so we can get used to the heat and humidity.” As for practice itself, it was much of the same. Teams have been used to running drills, going through fundamentals and reviewing situations throughout the summer. With one more day of Mitch Sneed / The Outlook helmets only, today seems Left: A Benjamin Russell player goes up for a catch during the first day of football practice. as if it will continue to be Right: Coach Danny Horn speaks to his players. more of the same.
BRHS football tickets on sale Aug. 21 Season tickets for the Benjamin Russell Wildcats football team go on sale Monday, Aug. 21 for 2016 season-ticket holders. Tickets will be available for purchase from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. in the lobby of the BRHS gym from Aug. 21 to Aug. 24. The cost for season tickets is $63. Fans may also purchase their season tickets online at https://gofan.co/ BenjaminRussellWildcats. If you chose to purchase online, you may use a credit or debit card and your tickets will be mailed to you or you may pick them up at BRHS. Remaining season tickets will go on sale to the public on Aug. 28. This season, fans will be given a reusable pass rather than individual game tickets. For more information or if you do not plan to purchase your season tickets this year, contact Pam Robinson at 256-234-8611 or via email at coachrob@acsk12.net. Register for youth soccer this week Registration for the Alexander City Youth Soccer recreational league will be held this week at the Sportplex gym. Times to register are from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. The league is open to players ages 3 and up, and the cost is $60. If a child did not play last season, he or she will need a birth certificate. Games will begin after Labor Day and run through September and October. For more information, contact Josh Tucker at 256-496-2241 or
visit www.alexcitysoccer.com. Registration open for fall baseball league Central Alabama Community College head baseball coach Larry Thomas will be holding a fall baseball league, and registration is now open. The league will be co-hosted by current Chicago White Sox player Toby Thomas, and players will have an opportunity to showcase their baseball skills in front of CACC coaches, area colleges and local scouts. Players will be able to hone their skills on the CACC baseball facilities. The league will run from Sept. 12 to Oct. 19 with games at 6 and 7:30 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. It is open to players in ninth through 12th grade and the cost is $125. For more information or to register, visit CACC.edu/athletics/ baseball or contact Thomas at 251-533-4059 or via email at Larrythomas16@yahoo.com. Outlook searching for freelancers Are you interested in writing about local sports? Are you familiar with keeping stats at a game or finding an interesting story? Do you have a camera and know a thing or two about taking action photos? You may be the perfect fit as a freelance writer or photographer for the Alexander City Outlook. The sports department will be ramping up its freelance coverage during the fall season, and is looking for people to start getting experienced now. If interested, contact sports editor Lizi Arbogast at 256-2344281 ext. 228, or by email at lizi. arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com.
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