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COMMUNITY COLUMNISTS INSIDE! THE

SPORTS, PAGE B1 Local gymnasts score big win at recent competition

WEDNESDAY

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OPINION, PAGE A4

December 13, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 246 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢ ‘I gotta do what I gotta do’

VOTERS SAY NO MOORE

Democrat Jones beats troubled former judge; tax vote fails

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Alabama voters did the unexpected Tuesday, electing Democrat Doug Jones to serve in United States Senate. Jones beat embattled former Alabama Supreme Court Judge Roy Moore edging 50 percent to 49 percent at presstime.

While final vote totals were not available, all three major news networks as well as CNN, Fox News and the New York Times had projected Jones as the winner. While there was no victory speech by Jones or concession by Moore as of 9:45 p.m., Jones did tweet out a simple statement. “Thank you Alabama,” Jones Tweeted.

Tuesday’s race was a special election to fill a vacancy in the Senate arising from the resignation of Jeff Sessions to serve as U.S. Attorney General. Jones will serve the remainder of Sessions‘ term, due to end on January 3, 2021. The vote count in Tallapoosa County was overwhelmingly in

File / The Outlook

Doug Jones became the first Democrat to be elected Senator in Alabama since the late Howell Heflin with his win over Roy See VOTE • Page A3 Moore Tuesday’s special election.

County school board talks report cards for system

Hearing today in Highway 280 murder case Harrison set to appear in court as evidence against him presented

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

The Tallapoosa County Board of Education opened Tuesday night’s meeting with a special moment of recognition for Dadeville Elementary School teacher Jacob Tidwell, while also taking the time to discuss construction at Dadeville Elementary and share concerns with the upcoming school system report cards to be released by the Alabama Board of Education. In order to gain a picture of how the state school systems are doing, the state board of education is preparing to analyze a large amount of data, including test scores, academic growth See SCHOOLS • Page A7

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Judy Owen, center, talks about her collection of Annabell dolls at an open house at her home Saturday. Owen has collected over 300 of the dolls and showcases them ocassionally to friends in an open house.

‘OUT OF CONTROL’ Dolls take over home for Christmas

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Judy Owen had put away her 300 Annalee dolls a few years ago after hosting holiday open houses for several years in her home, instead only bringing out a few for the family Christmas

gatherings. Then Owen noticed a contest on the Annalee Facebook page looking for scenes with the dolls. The winner would receive gift cards to the Meredith, New Hampshire doll maker.

See DOLLS • Page A6

Council to consider grant for Lee Street sidewalk project By MITCH SNEED Editor

A potential grant to help fund the constriction of sidewalks along Lee Street will be the subject of a special called meeting of the Alexander City City Council Wednesday. The meeting is set for 4:30 p.m. in the upstairs conference room at city

hall and the lone business item is a resolution to authorize Engineering, Environmental & Forestry Services to apply for a Transportation Alternative Program Funds Grant in the city’s name. If the grant request is successful, the funds, which would require See GRANT • Page A7

A man accused of shooting a man to death as he drove down Highway 280 is due in court today at 1:30 p.m. for a preliminary hearing. Nicholas Seth Harrison, 21, of Valley is facing charges of capital murder, reckless endangerment and shooting into an occupied dwelling Harrison or vehicle. Harrison also faces additional charges stemming from a traffic stop in Dadeville that have been merged with the more serious charges. 21-year-old Denzel Pope of Sylacauga died after being shot while traveling in a light gold four-door 1993 Acura Legend on Sept. 19. Pope’s vehicle came to a stop on the side of the westbound lanes of Highway 280, See HEARING • Page A7

Local man accepts plea in ‘pill mill case’ STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Special / The Outlook

This artist rendering shows what the sidewalks and streetscape project may look like when completed along Lee Street in Alexander City.

A doctor who lives in Alexander City has entered a guilty plea to charges relating to allegations that the Montgomery office where he operated served as “pill mill.” On Friday, Dr. Shepherd A. Odom, 78, of Alexander City pleaded guilty to charges of drug distribution and conspiracy to commit money laundering, according to United States Attorney Louis V. Franklin Sr. See GUILTY • Page A7

Today’s

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Man keeps wife in the dark about new ‘business partner’

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Staff

Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com

Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com Santana Wood Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 santana.wood@alexcityoutlook.com

Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com

Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Retail Sales Manager, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Digital Marketing Coordinator, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Rebecca Carlisle Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 rebecca.carlisle@alexcityoutlook.com Grant Peterson Advertising Sales, Ext. 209 grant.peterson@alexcityoutlook.com

DEAR ABBY: My husband met a gal 33 years younger than he is at a doctor’s office. It seems they “became close,” so they went off and bought real estate together in another state. They spend weeks at a time together there alone. When they are both here in town, they have “business” meetings several times a week. I am not allowed to attend, know when they take place or even ask what was discussed. They never have phone conversations while I’m near, and their texts to each other are “none of my business.” My husband’s words: “I don’t know why you’re so mad; you’re just jealous.” Your thoughts, please? -- PEEVED IN CALIFORNIA DEAR PEEVED: You live in a community property state. Half of your husband’s share of whatever property he and this woman bought together belongs to you. My first thought is your husband is having a fling and lying about not knowing why you are

DEAR ABBY Advice

angry. He’s right that you are jealous. You have every right to be. My second thought is that you should consult an attorney ASAP. I don’t know how much you know about your husband’s finances, but a forensic accountant can help you unearth any assets he may be hiding or has already buried. After that, it will be up to you to decide whether you want to continue in a marriage with someone who would treat you so shabbily. DEAR ABBY: My husband and I treated our 24-year-old granddaughter to dinner and a historical city tour. When we stopped by to pick her up, she came out of the house wearing a skin-tight top that laced up

the front, with a 3-inch gap from top to bottom and no bra. My first reaction was to ask her to change, thinking it was highly inappropriate. Her grandfather thought we should just let it go, so we went out for the evening. Nothing was mentioned regarding her attire, but I was extremely uncomfortable. What is your opinion? -BUTTONED UP IN INDIANA DEAR BUTTONED UP: Your granddaughter is an adult. For you to have asked her to change clothes would have been awkward for everyone concerned. While her choice of outfit may have been revealing, if there was any embarrassment, it should not have been yours. If you prefer she dress more modestly when she’s with you, the next time you invite her to go someplace, say so. DEAR ABBY: Allow me to offer a tip for those men about to pop the “big question” to their girlfriends: Let your fiancee pick out the ring style she will be wearing for the

rest of her life. Arrange with a jeweler to have a tray of rings in different styles in your price range. Then present a ring with the proposal with the understanding it can be exchanged. -- WISE SOUTHERNER DEAR SOUTHERNER: This is a subject that has been addressed in my column several times. A practical way to handle it is for the man to talk to the jeweler about what he can afford to spend beforehand, so the stones will be available to display to his fiancee, as well as a variety of settings from which she can choose. And, if none are to her liking, she might prefer the option of designing her own setting. Many brides do. 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.

Santa Cash Giveaway

Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com

Newsroom Amy Passaretti Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, Ext. 228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com

Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com

Postal

Information (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110)

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

The Outlook

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, Kenneth Boone Photography and a commercial web printing press.

The Outlook is published five times a week, Tuesday through Saturday mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, © 2011 Tallapoosa Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box Publishers, Inc. 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011. Reproduction of any POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.

part of any issue requires written publisher permission.

FREE CONSULTATIONS Audra Spears / The Outlook

Rachael Sherrer was this week’s Santa Cash winner and picked up a a check for $150. Here Shererr, along with Jasten Mitchell and Emmy Brooks receive her check from Tallapoosa Publishers’ Scott Hardy. Want to get some big bucks of your own? Read the Outlook each day to find how you could be a winner by shopping the businesses who sponsor this year’s Santa Cash Contest. ““It’s ’ not the h end d ... It’s ’ a new b beginning” i i ”

256-329-1313 217 Madison Street, Alexander City, AL “We are a Debt Relief Agency. We help people ﬁle Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 under the Bankruptcy Code. Alabama State Bar requires the following in every attorney advertisement, “ No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

IV Drug Use & HIV IV Drug use puts you at high risk for getting HIV. Never share needles or works. Clean needles or works in Clorox bleach. Or go to a needle exchange program 256-234-4894. Get tested for HIV at least once per year. Call 256-234-4894 for help locating treatment.

LIGHTHOUSE OF TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

Obituaries Mr. Arnold L. McDaniel 1934 - 2017 Funeral Service for Mr. Arnold L. McDaniel, 83, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Thursday, December 14, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Rev. John Hill will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The Alexander City Veteran’s Honor Guard will present honors at the graveside. The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 14, 2017 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. Mr. McDaniel passed away on Tuesday, December 12, 2017 at Russell Medical. He was born on February 9, 1934 in New Site, Alabama to George Walter McDaniel

and Cola Mae McDaniel. He was an active member of Flint Hill United Methodist Church. Mr. McDaniel was a very devoted father, husband and grandfather. His pride and joy was his two daughters, sons-in-law and grandchildren. Arnold was only one of six who obtained the lifetime membership in the Elk’s Lodge where he was a loyal member for over 50 years. He never missed poker night with his fellow Elk members and would make “his rounds” everyday visiting his friends. He is survived by his daughters, Frankie French (David) of Pensacola, FL and Kristen M. Stallings (Michael) of Chelsea; grandchildren, David French, Jr., Parker Lee Stallings, Paxton Daniel Stallings, Isabella Paige French, Jackson Logan French,

and Chelsea French Burns (Eric); brother, George W. “Stick” McDaniel, Jr. (Gail) of Alexander City; sister, Dannie Dean Jones and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lois McDaniel; parents; sisters, Ruth Spraggins, Frances Blankenship, Maxine Baker and brother, Allen McDaniel. The family will accept flowers or memorial contributions may be made to the Flint Hill United Methodist Church, 2858 Flint Hill Road, Alexander City, Al, 35010. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome.com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Public Meetings Planning a Yard Sale? Boost your pro½ts with an ad in the Classi½eds. It’s an easy and affordable way to bring more business to your door! To place your ad call

256.277.4219 The Outlook ClassiÀeds

Alexander City Board of Education meets on the third Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the board office at 375 Lee St. or local school at 5 p.m. Alexander City Council meets on the first and third

Camp Hill Town Council meets the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 6 p.m. Dadeville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month

the Daviston Fire Department. Goldville Town Council meets the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the town hall. Goodwater City Council meets on the second Tuesday

Comfort & Compassion in your time of sorrow

Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 6:30 p.m., all Jackson’s Gap citizens are encouraged to attend. Kellyton Town Council meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the community center in Kellyton. New Site City Council meets the first and third Monday of the month at 5 p.m. in the Conference Room in the Town Hall.

Y Funeral Services Y Cremations Y Pre-Need Arrangements Y Caskets, Vaults & Urns Y Headstones and Monuments Y Funeral Program Design & Printing Y Obituary Support Y Memorial Video Tribute Service Y Limousine & Transport Services Y Domestic & International Shipping Y Notary Public

131 Mason Street Alexander City, AL (256) 234-6355 Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in the courtroom at the old city hall at 5:30 p.m.

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at 6 p.m. with a pre-meeting at 5:30 p.m. in city hall.

of each month. Meetings are held at the Caldwell Center at 6:30 p.m.

Daviston City Council meets the third Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at

Jackson’s Gap Town Council meets the second

Ray Water Authority meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Ray Water Authority Office. All customers are invited to attend.

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

The Outlook

Vote

Page A3

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Police Reports continued from page 1

favor of Moore. Moore won the county 7,171 to 4,590 or 60.2 percent to 47.4 percent. There were 148 write-in votes in the county. Voters in Tallapoosa County also overwhelmingly rejected a property tax resolution that was designed to help the financial stability of the Tallapoosa County School system. A total of 5,205 people voted against the tax, with just 1,386 voting in favor of the tax. But it was the Senate race that was the headline attraction. In mid-November, multiple women alleged that Moore had made unwanted advances or sexual assaults on them when he was in his early 30s and they were in their teens, with the youngest being 14 at the time. Moore’s story changed after the allegations surfaced. Moore said at first he knew some of the women, but never engaged in sexual misconduct. He then claimed he didn’t know the accusers. He didn’t deny he approached or dated teenagers while he was in his 30s. Moore’s campaign was bolstered in the final weeks by a push and endorsement from President Donald Trump. Trump, who after initial reluctance following the allegations against Moore offered a fullthroated endorsement, tweeted his support: “Roy Moore will always vote with us.” The Moore campaign also hammered on the abortion issue in a very conservative state. Early in the campaign, Jones made a statement saying “I fully support a woman’s freedom to choose what happens to her own body.” That quote was used by Moore at rallies and on television and radio ads. In the end, the allegations and Moore’s checkered past apparently turned many voters off. To show the wide contract in votes in Tallapoosa County, even though Moore won the county, one precinct, Mt. Lovely in Camp Hill, recorded 494 votes for Jones and just 34 for Moore. Experts say it was the AfricanAmerican and women voters who made the difference for Jones. CNN reported that their exit polls found women voted for Jones by a 57 percent to 42 percent margin. In the property tax vote the 79

percent to 21 percent rejection was no big surprise. The resolution called for voters who reside in an area that lies within the Tallapoosa County School District to decide if they favored a 3 mill property tax increase to be “levied for public school purposes” in Tallapoosa County. Alexander City and Tallassee voters did not vote on that measure on their ballots. Had it passed the millage increase would mean the owner of a $100,000 home would have seen an increase of just $30. Tallapoosa County Schools Superintendent Joe Windle said he expected this news. “I am disappointed that the 3 mill ad valorem tax did not pass but certainly not surprised,” Windle said. “Property tax increases are an emotional issue in our state. The voters in Tallapoosa County have spoken and I respect that. The board of education, board attorney and I will meet in the next 2-3 weeks to determine our next step. The one cent sales tax is still in place until Sept. 30th, 2018. We are thankful for that revenue stream and what we have been able to accomplish with it.” Tuesday’s vote wasn’t without a few issues around the county. The new electronic poll books experienced a few glitches. Tallapoosa County Probate Court Judge Leon Archer said that the main complaint was that the scan feature, where a voter’s ID could be quickly entered by sliding it through a reader, was not working properly in some instances. “That seemed to be the big issue,” Archer said. “We took additional machines out to many of the polling places and that seemed to help. They worked fine when the name was being typed in. But we will get all the bugs worked out. It was the first time and no matter how much testing and training you do, that first time is always tough. We think in time they are going to be a positive thing.” Later Jones did speak to the crowd at his victory parade. “I am truly overwhelmed,” Jones said. “I have always said that we in Alabama have more in common that what divides us. We have shown the nation that tonight.”

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Alexander City Police Department December 10

• Chad Alan Moore, 19, of Equality was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. • Joshua Ryan Windsor, 34, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. • Possession of drug paraphernalia was reported on Highway 280. • A dog bite was reported on 7th Street East. • Domestic violence was reported on I Street.

December 9

• Danielle Traveyvon Wyckoff, 40, of Alexander City was arrested for disorderly conduct. • Jennifer Paulette Jackson, 42, of Alexander City was arrested for disorderly conduct. • Terry Robin Ogilvie, 52, of Kellyton was arrested for disorderly conduct. • Disorderly conduct was reported on 3rd Street. • Dog running at large was reported on Bishop Street. • Domestic violence was reported on Hillabee Street. • Disorderly conduct was reported on Barrett Road. • Burglary and theft was reported on Johnson Street. • Domestic violence was reported on Highway 280. • Domestic violence was reported on Sam Street.

December 8

• Domestic violence was reported on Cherokee Road.

Mask Avenue. • Possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia was reported on Hillabee Street. • Public intoxication was reported on Hillabee Street. • Criminal trespass was reported on 8th Avenue. • Theft was reported on Cherokee Road. • Theft was reported on South Road Court. • Identity theft was reported on Lavista Road. • Theft was reported on Parks Avenue.

Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department December 11

• Edward Halsey of Highway 63 North in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for probation violation. • Rhonda Price of Sunny Level Cut Off in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear possession of marijuana second degree.

December 10

• A resident of Rosewood Lane in Dadeville filed a report for burglary of a residence and theft of property.

December 9

• Ryheem Sistrunk of South Long Street in Opelika was arrested on a warrant for failure to appear possession of marijuana second degree and was transported to the county jail. • Charles Reed of Jacksons Gap Way in Jacksons Gap was arrested on a grand jury indictment for possession of forged instrument first degree and was placed in the county jail. • A resident of Marina Point Road in Dadeville filed a report for criminal mischief.

December 8

• A resident of Whiskey Ridge Drive in Dadeville filed a report for theft of property.

Social Secu ity Ŷ Social Security Disability & SSI Ŷ Personal Injury & Accidents Ŷ Probate Civil Ŷ Uncontested Divorce

December 7

• Myrtle Michelle King, 45, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. • Michael Ray Caldwell, 37, of Alexander City was arrested for public intoxication. • Vantavious Juwonta Westbrook, 18, of Alexander City was arrested for domestic violence. • Dog presumed to be vicious was reported on

FAYEAttorney EDMONDSON at Law 135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL

256.825.9559

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.

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MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213

editor@alexcityoutlook.com

EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed

Opinion

Our View

Storm brought out the best in folks

n unexpectedly heavy snowstorm blanketed Tallapoosa County with about 8 inches of snow Friday, causing all sorts of issues on area roads, knocking out power, internet and cable to thousands while creating some incredible images. There was plenty of reason for angst, worry and frustration, but as our area often does, there were stories from the storm that showed what makes our area special. We saw first-responders, municipal and county workers and those with utility companies and departments step up and work tirelessly to keep residents safe and to restore services. We saw just regular citizens some to the rescue of others. Take these accounts as proof of the character of area residents and public servants. • A man on Dadeville Road saw that a curve near his house was becoming an issue and at least two cars had skidded off the road as the slush started to freeze. He got his own red tractor out and used the blade to clear off the worst of the ice. He also used that tractor to pull a couple of people out of the ditch. • How about the police and firefighters who came to the rescue in four-wheel drive vehicles and Humvees to get kids home from area schools? It needed to be done and they handled it. In addition to making sure the students were safe, they have a memory that will last a lifetime. Great job by these folks. • A man and woman were walking from a convenience store on Hillabee Street in a driving snow. A motorist in a Buick SUV stopped and picked them up and took them home safely. • How about the Smiths Station woman whose wiper snapped while she was driving to Birmingham during the storm? She stopped at a store and a group of citizens rallied and helped fix the issue and get her on her way and wouldn’t take a penny for their trouble. • There were utility workers who didn’t go home for two days while they worked to restore power. Police, deputies, fire personnel and dispatchers worked long shifts to handle the massive increase in calls. That’s just a small list and we know there more instances just like this that haven’t been reported. Thank you to everyone for going above and beyond to make what could have been a tragic time a safe experience. We salute you all.

Know Your

Officials

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 of Spring Hill T.C. Coley community. His phone number is 256-212-9316. His address is 2316 North Central Avenue, Kellyton. Steve Robinson represents District 2, which includes the southern part of Alexander City, the Cedar Creek area, Ourtown and Willow Point. His phone number Steve Robinson is 256-654-0047. His address is 300 Heritage Drive Alexander City. John McKelvey represents District 3, which includes Jackson’s Gap, Hackneyville, New Site and Daviston. McKelvey currently serves as chairman. His phone number is 256-794-4405. His address is 1285 Freeman John McKelvey Road, Dadeville. Emma Jean Thweatt represents District 4, which includes Dadeville, Pace’s Point, northern Camp Hill, Buttston, Dudleyville and part of Eagle Creek. She can be reached at 8254207. Her address is 585 Brookwood Circle, Dadeville.

Outlook The

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Page A4

Emma Jean Thweatt

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.

Wednesday,December 13, 2017

I gotta do what I gotta do

’m writing this article in my friend’s vehicle at a gas station in Northwest Alabama. It’s not too far from Guin, or is it Gu-Win? It’s one of them. These are the names of two real towns. That’s Brilliant, with a capital B, not too far away. I’m really not sure where I am, but I’m somewhere just off the recently completed Interstate 22. I’d prefer to be writing this from the comfort of my office at the home place, but sometimes, you gotta do what you gotta do. The other night, I had a gig in Andalusia. It was the Kiwanis Club’s annual awards banquet. It’s the first time I’d gone that far since we brought baby Abigail home from the hospital. I hated leaving. I didn’t want to, but I had no choice. I have bills to pay and an extra mouth to feed. Plus, I really enjoy what I do; it was just hard getting over that hump of being away for so long. I wound up, of course, having a great time. I just missed my little family. By the time the night was over, I had new family in Andalusia. They were really nice to me and knew so many people that I knew from back here in East Alabama. I spoke at the same function five years ago, but everything about it was different, including most of the crowd. This went really well. While I hated leaving my family for most of the night,

JODY FULLER Columnist

I did what I had to do. By the way, I love Andalusia. I drove my 20-year-old SUV down there. While I’m blessed to have it, it has been known to make strange noises, and I just don’t always trust it. It’s like me after an evening of dining on Mexican cuisine. I got back that night just before midnight, so it wasn’t too bad. Those sounds, though, had me a bit nervous somewhere down around Pine Apple. I’m in my buddy’s truck, because I didn’t trust the SUV for the 12-hour round trip to Tunica, Miss. I’m grateful for his kindness. I hated to leave home, but, once again, I knew I had to. Besides, Abigail is in great hands. Lucy is a great mom and has done an amazing job taking care of our little miracle, thus allowing me the time I need to work. She does 99% of everything anyway. I wash the dishes and take out the trash. This time, I stayed overnight. I tried writing this column in the hotel but just couldn’t focus long enough to get anything written. I had the great honor of entertaining the great men and women of the Mississippi

Sheriff’s Association at the Gold Strike Casino on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi. I had a ball with them. They are professionals in every manner. They welcomed me with open arms. How blessed am I? Some of them are even professional karaoke singers on the side. Man, they were good. Now, it’s time to get on back home. While I will always travel for work, I hope to get more work closer to home, so I can be home most every night. My lofty dream is for my column to appear in hundreds of newspapers around the country, which would allow me to stay home even more. The flip side to that is that I need to get out to find things to write about. My practical dream is to one day have a bigger house, so I can have an in-home, sound-proof office away from everyone and everything but close enough for me to be where I need to be in a matter of seconds. That’s going to happen. Having said that, if you need a clean comedian or a speaker anywhere from here to Walla Walla, let me know. I’m your man. I gotta do what I gotta do. Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier with three tours of duty in Iraq. He is also a lifetime stutterer. He can be reached at jody@jodyfuller. com. For more information, please visit www.jodyfuller.com

Today’s

Quote

“Order and simplification are the first steps toward the mastery of a subject.” – Thomas Mann

Today’s

Scripture

“But whoever drinks the water I give him will nver thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” – John 4:14

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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.

Another governement shutdown showdown

he theatrics surrounding government funding standoffs could be avoided if Washington politicians didn’t have the budgeting skills of an Ole Miss frat boy. I am not the least bit concerned about the federal government shutting down over the spending bill to keep it running. A shutdown is not a problem — I worry when the government is open. Dems are using DACA “Dreamers” funding as a shutdown tactic. They, and the permanent bureaucracy in D.C., obstruct President Trump at every turn. I fully expect the four turkeys Trump pardoned at Thanksgiving to have their sentences overturned by a California Court of Appeals. There have been about 13 government shutdowns. The last one was in 2013 and no one noticed. The “Deep State” is so petulant that the feds took extra steps during that shutdown to post guards at open air national parks to prevent citizens from walking through them. Two things again became apparent then: how little we need most of government, and how spiteful public servants can be when they do not get their funding. They fake falling down and playing hurt like a World Cup soccer player. During the last sequester, then-President Barack Obama even shut down White House tours. Tourism is the second most common reason people go to DC; number one is to beg for a government handout. Of course, members of Congress get their full pay during shutdowns, under the Americans with Next-to-No Abilities Act.

RON HART Columnist

Don’t raise the debt limit. Let Congress live within its means like the rest of us. Think of it this way: If someone owed you lots of money, would you prefer that he be allowed to raise the credit limit on his credit card or forced to live on a budget? “A shutdown is not a problem — I worry when the government is open.” We have a $20 trillion debt, up from $10 trillion when Obama took office, and much of it is owed to China. All the while, Congress ping-pongs spending bills back and forth between the House and Senate. Here’s what we know about ping-pong: Championships happen every four years and the Chinese always win. Why in the budget battle have there been no conversations about cutting government? Corker and Flake have tried to advance that novel idea and are now “enemies of the state” or, better said, enemies of the Deep State. Nancy Pelosi said that “the government cannot cut any more.” Why not require every government agency to appear before Congress and define what it does, why it does it, and how much it costs? We then decide if we want to keep it. If whatever service it purports to do can be found in the Yellow Pages, I say shut that agency down. We have 800 military bases in 70 countries. We have 14 intel agencies who don’t cooperate with each other

or with Congressional subpoenas. Really? House Speaker Paul Ryan has a tough job. Marshalling Republicans is like gift-wrapping an octopus. Libertarians wanted less war, less government and less debt. The evangelical wing of the party wanted to station U.S. troops at all gay weddings and any public restroom a transvestite might use. But you have to hand it to the Dems; they do what Pelosi and Chuck Schumer tell them to. They have not had a meaningful interparty debate since 1968. As Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan wields a big gavel. I hope the large gavel is him compensating for his “small” government. I feel for the Speaker. During Schumer’s whiny diatribes, Ryan looks like a man enduring an old lady’s long story at a Walmart returns counter. If we shut down government, who will pay politicians like Rep. John Conyers’ (D-Mich.) sexual harassment settlements? In fairness to the “icon” Conyers, he was first elected in 1963 during the Johnson administration. Threats of government shutdowns will continue. Such standoffs have no easy off-ramps for either side; neither wants to be the first to blink. When politicians head over a “fiscal cliff,” I pull for gravity and a low tide. It’s our fault. About $38 million will be spent just on the Alabama Senate race for a job that pays $174,000 a year. And we expect these folks to balance a budget?ࠉ Ron Hart is a libertarian op-ed humorist and award-winning author. Contact him at Ron@ RonaldHart.com or @RonaldHart on Twitter.

The subscription rate is $136.00 per year in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and $177.99 outside the area. Periodicals paid at Alexander City, AL. Newspapers are available at 100 news racks in our area at 75 cents for The Outlook and 50 cents for The Record. We would love to deliver a paper to your door. Call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281, Ext. 204 or e-mail david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook. com.

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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!

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Wednesday, December 13, 2017

The Outlook

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CommunityCalendar

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/.

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Melody and Gary Robertson and Lahoma and Ronnie Joiner celebrate their anniversaries today.

Today is December 13, 2017

Today’s Birthdays

Diane Dyess, Valerie Turner Clarence Lyons are celebrating their birthdays today.

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The town of Camp Hill is hosting a Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec. 16 starting at 2 p.m. After the parade there will be Christmas fesitivities in the Edward Bell Gym with Christmas carols, cookies and hot chocolate.

Thursday, December 14

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CHRISTMAS CONCERT: The Capitol Sounds Concert Band will be in concert Thursday, Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the St. James United Methodist Church at 9045 Vaughn Road in Montgomery. Admission is free. SENIORX: Deborah Jones, a SenioRx coordinator will be available Dec. 14 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce to help seniors determine if they are eligible for assistance with diabetic supplies, liquid supplements and maintenance medications. Jones can be contacted at 1-800-361-1636 for more information. SHOP LOCAL LATE: MainStreet Alexander City and downtown Alexander City businesses are hosting Shop Local Late on Thursdays in December. Participating stores are open until 7 p.m. Bring your downtown receipts to Cloud Nine to be entered to win a Christmas gift basket. Spent $25 get one raffle ticket. Spend $50 get two and spend $150 get five. The winner will be announced Thursday, Dec. 21 at Cloud Nine. CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE: Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama is sponsoring a Christmas Open House Thursday, Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The public is invited to come by and visit. VCCA is located at 5030 Cherokee Road next to the Karen Channel State Farm office. For more information email vcca.al@gmail.com or call 256-2340347. CHOIR ANNIVERSARY: Corinth Baptist Church in Kellyton is hosting its annual choir anniversary celebration Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. Guest speaker will be Pastor Tracy Burton of Seleeta Baptist Church. Pastor of Corinth Baptist Church is Jimmy Brooks, Jr.

Friday, December 15

RENTED CHRISTMAS: Alexander City Theatre II will present a heart-warming holiday story in two acts with carols and the reading of the Christmas story from the Book of Luke. The play begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults; $7 for students and are available at the door and on the ACT II website at www.act2fineartscenter.com. COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS DINNER: Victory Temple Holiness Church at 237 Aster Street in Dadeville is hosting its annual community Christmas Dinner Dec. 15 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. It is dine in or carry out.

Saturday, December 16

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 December 16 from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Refreshments are also available. RENTED CHRISTMAS: Alexander City Theatre II will present a heart-warming holiday story in two acts with carols and the reading of the Christmas story from the Book of Luke. There will be two performances of the play - 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Benjamin Russell auditorium. Tickets Darrell Brooks, Owner are $12 for adults; $7 for students and are available online at the door Cutting •Edging and online at the website www.actWeed Eating •Mulch 2fineartscenter.com. BENEFIT SINGING: Bay Pine Weed Control Baptist Church is hosting a benefit singing and cake auction for the family of Lienna Taylor. Taylor was recently diagnosed with AML Leukemia and is currently at UAB. She has left her job for treatments and her husband is now the sole provider for the family of four. Singing at the end of the cake 256.267.0518 auction will be Heaven’s Crossroads, Zach Channell and All for Him. • Alexander City Outlook • Dadeville Record • Wetumpka Herald • Eclectic Observer • Tallassee Tribune

Lawn Care

For more information contact Charlie Crouch at 256-749-3090. CHRISTMAS PARADE: The town of Camp Hill is hosting a Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec. 16 starting at 2 p.m. After the parade there will be Christmas fesitivities in the Edward Bell Gym with Christmas carols, cookies and hot chocolate. BREAKFAST WITH SANTA: The Dadeville First United Methodist Church had to reschedule Breakfast with Santa as he got snowed in. It will be Saturday, Dec. 16 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Pancakes, sausage and juice is $5 and it is $5 for a picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Sunday, December 17

CHRISTMAS CANTATA: Red Ridge United Methodist Church is presenting its Christmas cantata “How Should a King Come” by Randy Vader and Rose Aspinall Dec. 17 at 9:30 a.m. under the direction of Dr. Kim Walls with a full orchestra composed of professional, amateur and student musicians. Dramatization will depict scenes of the birth of Jesus Christ directed by Marian Edell and Sue Mason. Refreshments and coffee will be served following the concert. All are invited. The church is located at 8091 County Road 34 at the corner of 49 and 34 in Dadeville. Call 256825-9820 for more information or visit redridgeumc.org. Vicki Cater is pastor.

Thursday, December 21

SHOP LOCAL LATE: MainStreet Alexander City and downtown Alexander City businesses are hosting Shop Local Late on Thursdays in December. Participating stores are open until 7 p.m. Bring your downtown receipts to Cloud Nine to be entered to win a Christmas gift basket. Spent $25 get one raffle ticket. Spend $50 get two and spend $150 get five. The winner will be announced Thursday, Dec. 21 at Cloud Nine.

Friday, December 22

Community Center at 4191 Highway 50. Dumpsters will be available at no charge to residents.

Tuesday, January 16

BEEKEEPING COURSE: The 2018 Beginner Beekeeping Course will start Jan. 16 and will be on Tuesdays through Feb. 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Dadeville Recreation Center. Cost is $45 for adults and $35 for students Call the Extension Office at 256-825-1050 and the deadline for registration is Jan. 11.

Sunday, January 21

HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING: The Tallapoosee Historical Society will meet at the Historical Museum on the square in Dadeville on Sunday, January 21, 2018 at 2 p.m. Dr. Charles Mitchell will be the speaker. He will present “A Pictorial History of Alabama Agriculture.” While working at Auburn, Dr. Mitchell accumulated lots of old photographs related to Alabama agriculture. Several years ago, he began organizing them and realized that these old pictures could actually tell the chronological story of Alabama’s agriculture from the Creek Indians to modern production. He will share these photographs with the Tallapoosee Historical Society Please make plans to attend. The meeting is open to the public, there is no admission fee and free refreshments will be served.

Monday, December 25

Monday, February 5

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Craigger Browne will present “Tribute to Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Jan. 8 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple. Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8.

January 8-9

THROW AWAY DAYS: The Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership and the Tallapoosa County Commission are holding Throw Away Days January 8-9. Dumpsters will be located at at the Alex City Annex at 395 Lee Street, Double Bridges on Highway 63, the Old Daviston School on Highway 22, the Camp Hill Town at 309 Holley Ave. and the Union

Ben & Peggy Smith, Owners Thur & Fri 9-4 | Sat 9-1 256-675-0176 1222 Hwy 280, Kellyton, AL

The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow

The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for 2nd, 3rd, and Weekend Shifts for Direct Care. Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Brinda Bell (334) 252-0025, Ext. 101 Email: bbell@learning-tree.org

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

Monday, January 29

BLOOD DRIVE: The Amercian Red Cross is hosting a blood drive at Russell Medical in the Community Room from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. All blood types are needed. Appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org. by using the keyword Russell. There will be pizza and t-shirts for those who come.

Monday, Janurary 8

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Monday, Janurary 22

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: E. Paul Jones will present “Reverend Maxwell” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Jan. 22 starting at 1:30 p.m.at the Alexander City Board of Education. Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple. Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8. HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Marilee Tankersley will present “Wetumpka Impact Crater” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Jan. 29 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple. Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8.

CHRISTMAS DINNER: Comer Methodist Church is hosting a Christmas Dinner Dec. 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The public is invited to have a hot meal and fellowship. Tickets can be picked up at the Nutrition Center and the Salvation Army. You do not have to have a ticket to get a meal. For more information call 256-2347831.

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HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Glen Willis will present “Forgotten Alabama” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Feb. 5 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple. Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8.

Monday, February 12

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Peggy Shores will present “Songs from the Heart” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Feb. 12 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple. Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8.

Monday, February 26

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Dr. James Hansen will present “Neil Armstrong” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Feb. 26 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple. Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8.

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Dolls

The Outlook

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

continued from page 1

“I generally buy a couple a year,” Owen said. “I noticed they had a Facebook page. I went there and it said it is time for our annual decorate your house Christmas contest.” Owen entered the contest. “I thought I would send a picture in,” Owen said. “Well, I won the contest.” Owen’s reward for winning the contests was gift cards to Annalee with which Owen purchased more dolls. Owen describes herself as a “lunatic” collector. “Apparently I am the only lunatic that is this extreme because second and third place were ridiculous. Nobody goes to this extreme.” After selecting new dolls, Owen’s husband said she had to have another open house to show off her Cliff Williams / The Outlook collection. From the mantel, to the kitchen, to the library, more than 300 Annabell doll decorate the home of Judy Owen. Owen has been collecting the dolls for over 30 years and has hosted several holiday open houses showcasing the scenes she creates with them. “It is obviously out of control,” Owen admitted. “I have been collecting since about 1979 and have over 300 of them.” Owen did admit she had lost count of them after learning over 100 were in just the kitchen, dining room and sitting area. The scenes take over every one of the six bedrooms, the living room, the kitchen, the dining room and sitting area with dolls cooking around the stove, reading from the book shelves in the dining room and climbing the fireplace mantel and Christmas tree. Preparation for the open house starts in September as they take a lot of work and Owen has hosted about five or six of them. Owen took a break last year but the new dolls allowed the construction of a new set – a railroad village in a large upstairs bedroom. Saturday afternoon the Owens once again opened their Ridge home to friends and family to showcase the collection. Owen says she may host more open houses in the future but will continue to set up the scenes for family. “When I don’t do the open house, I do a tree and maybe a scene,” Owen said. “As long as my grandchildren love it, I want to do it. I still have a few more years. I have one that is 20 all the way to being due next year. That will be a few more years to do it.”

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Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Schools

continued from page 1

levels and absenteeism in order to give letter grades to each system in Alabama. Superintendent Joe Windle said he and many other superintendents across the state have expressed concerns over how this will be measured, including the use of ACT Aspire testing data and the use of a bell curve to determine grades. By using a bell curve, this would mean that for every school system that receives an A, there will be a system that must receive a failing grade in order to balance everything out. “Somebody is going to be a loser in this,” Windle said. “I don’t think this is a good system.” While Windle said the Tallapoosa County School System was not perfect and that there were always things they could improve, the system being used was not ideal as well, with a serious portion of the grading criteria (between 20 and 40 percent, depending on the school in question) based on scores to a test that did not match up with Alabama’s standards.

“The Superintendent’s Association has been fighting for there to be less emphasis on using test scores,” Windle said. “This has mostly been falling on deaf ears.” In addition, one of the key players in the grading process is the chief of the education department of the Business Council of Alabama, an organization which has been steadily pushing for more public money to go to private education. Because of this, Windle and others believe this will lead to an inaccurate picture of state school systems. “It’s the picture they want to paint, and I don’t feel confident they will paint the actual picture,” he said. Tidwell recently saved the life of a man who fell into Lake Martin while trying to step off his boat onto a dock. For his act of courage, the board took the time to recognize Tidwell for taking action. Windle read a special resolution to be entered into the minutes and presented Tidwell with a copy of the resolution. “Developing good citizens for our

community is an important part of what we do,” Windle said. “We may not remember what he said, but we will remember what he did. Quite an action there, young man.” As the board wrapped up its meeting, the conversation shifted to recent discussion on adding classroom space at Dadeville Elementary School. The board had met with engineers to determine the best path moving forward. Unofficial plans suggested that two classroom and a corridor extension to connect these to the rest of the building could be added, along with a change in the kitchen area to add a dry storage room, freeing up another classroom during the first phase of construction. During the second phase, the lunchroom would be expanded, though there would still be a 12-foot wide alleyway between the two sections of the Dadeville campus after expansion was completed. Currently, the projected cost for all of the potential construction could run as high as $435,000, but at the

Hearing

moment, the board was working to have official plans drafted. Financially, it was stated much of the needed funds for this would be able to come from the one-cent sales tax. The following items were also discussed during Monday night’s board meeting: • Minutes from the Nov. 20 meeting were approved. • A motion to approve the November financial report and to pay the November bills passed. • The board approved Purchase Service Agreements with Tiffany Turner and Amy Scott to be Parent Involvement Facilitators at Dadeville Elementary School and Horseshoe Bend, respectively. • The board accepted the retirement of Horseshoe Bend teacher Tammy East, effective Dec. 31. “We will really miss Mrs. East,” Windle said. The next meeting of the Tallapoosa County Board of Education will be Monday, Jan. 8, 2018 at the Board of Education office, beginning at 5 p.m.

continued from page 1

Court records show Harrison has retained attorneys Tim Davis of Alexander City

just west of Tallapoosa Ford and across from McDaniel Supply and Storage.

and it was Davis who requested the preliminary hearing. Judge Kim Taylor granted the request. The hearing will be held at the Tallapoosa County Courthouse Annex in Alexander City today at 1:30 p.m. Preliminary hearings are often used by defense attorneys to see what evidence the state may have against their client. It is also a time when details of the incident and a possible motive are revealed so that a judge can make a decision on whether the case should go to a grand jury. As of now, police have not released many details other than how Harrison was identified as a suspect. According to Alexander City Police Chief Jay Turner, a

caller reported reckless driving on Highway 280 near Dadeville to the county dispatch center just after the shooting. The call was broadcast and Dadeville Police Department officers spotted a vehicle matching the description in the call. After making a traffic stop, the driver was identified as Harrison. Police also located a handgun, illegal drugs and found evidence to suggest Harrison was intoxicated. He was taken into custody on the traffic and drug charges. Dadeville investigators reached out to Alexander City officials and they identified Harrison as a suspect in the shooting of Pope. It could be revealed at a preliminary hearing

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if the gun found in Harrison’s car matched the one used in the shooting of Pope. The vehicle Harrison was driving also had damage appearing to be consistent with the damage found on the car driven by Pope. Fifth Judicial Circuit District Attorney Jeremy Duerr said he could not comment on any specifics of this case until it completes the judicial process, but did commend investigators and all the departments involved in making an arrest in short order in the case. He said much of the evidence collected will be the subject of testimony at today’s preliminary hearing. Duerr and Assistant District Attorney Kevin Hall are listed as prosecutors in the case.

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a small percentage match from the city, would be used to improve streetscapes and construct a sidewalk along Lee Street. An artist’s rendering of the project shows the sidewalk starting just beyond the former Russell Corp. headquarters building and continuing down Lee Street to the Dairy Queen property. The design includes wide sidewalks, a green buffer, street lamps in the same design as those

used downtown as well as selected trees, plants and shrubbery. The idea is not new. Streetscapes in that area were part of the city’s strategic plan that was formulated in 2014. While not an action item, also listed on the agenda under comments are remarks from Alexander City Mayor Jim Nabors regarding the status of the Alexander City Police Department jail. The public is invited to attend the meeting.

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Please save the weight circles on the bags of dry dog and cat food and mail to Rescue K911. Moist and Meaty dog food also has weight circles. Drop them off or mail them to Rescue K911 P.O. Box 862 Auburn, AL 36831. They all help & add up fast. Thank you on behalf of the dogs and cats that will beneﬁt from them.

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This ad is sponsored by Wayside Animal Hospital, Dr. Susan Martin, 256-329-9900. Spay/neuter assistance is available from RESCUE K9-1-1, Wayside Animal Hospital 256-329-9900 or Lake Martin Humane Society 256-234-5533.

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P.O. Box 862 • Auburn, AL 36831 • www.rescueK911.com

Guilty

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Dr. Odom’s guilty plea was a part of the ongoing investigation and prosecution of those involved in operating a “pill mill” through the Family Practice medical office located at 4143 Atlanta Highway in Montgomery. According to court documents, until 2013, Dr. Odom was a part owner of Family Practice. In 2013, he sold his interest in the business to his partner Dr. Gilberto Sanchez who recently pled guilty to drug distribution, health care fraud, and money laundering charges arising out of the same scheme. After selling his ownership interest in Family Practice, Dr. Odom remained involved in the business’s affairs. According to a release from the Department of Justice, records show that in 2014 Dr. Odom issued an illegitimate and unnecessary prescription for fentanyl patches to a patient. Additionally, in or about 2013, Dr. Odom agreed with Dr. Sanchez and others to launder the proceeds of the practice’s drug distribution operations. The money laundering was accomplished by Dr. Sanchez frequently issuing sizable checks from the practice’s bank account that were payable to Dr. Odom. Dr. Odom is scheduled to be sentenced in federal court on March 22, 2018, where he faces up to 20 years on each count. Dr. Odom also faces substantial monetary penalties and restitution. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Tactical Diversion Squad, the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation Division, and the Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners, the Montgomery Police Department and the Opelika Police Department all assisted in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan S. Ross and R. Rand Neeley are prosecuting the case.

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Wednesday, December 13, 2017

The Outlook

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REBELS SQUASH GENERALS Reeltown girls overcome HBS By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Reeltown’s Trey O’Neal (12) looks for a way around Horseshoe Bend’s defense on Tuesday.

Reeltown holds off late push By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

Trailing by double figures for the majority of the second half, Horseshoe Bend’s basketball team proved it wasn’t about to go down without a fight. With under two minutes to go, Generals forward Trace Meadows scooped up a rebound and went coast-to-coast to pull within four points of area foe Reeltown on Tuesday night. But Rebels coach Jonathan Gardner quickly took a timeout and calmed his players down. Reeltown scored the seven straight points and held Horseshoe Bend off the scoreboard aside from a desperation 3-pointer, and it won, 60-52. “I told them we had been in this position before, and we needed to make sure it didn’t come out like it has in the past,” Gardner said. “We’re basing a lot of things on what we did last year and making sure that we’re building on that. We want to play smarter and think and play with patience.” Reeltown managed to do just that, and it was helped along by the defensive

pressure of Tre Tre Hughley, who had three of his five steals in the final two minutes of the game. Hughley also scored four points, including two free throws, that helped seal the deal. “He was giving me all he got,” Gardner said. “We call him Game Time, and that’s what we did tonight. He showed up at game time.” Teammate Trey O’Neal added, “I think we took (the last two minutes) good. I don’t think we got too panicky. We just had to slow down and realize what was going on, and we got through it.” A big reason for Reeltown’s insurmountable lead was its work on the boards. The Rebels (2-1, 1-0) dominated Horseshoe Bend (6-3, 1-1) on the boards to the tune of 41-31. O’Neal led the Rebels with 16 boards, while Eric Shaw had 13. “We practice rebounds, and all the guys did a great job of focusing in practice,” O’Neal said. “One thing we really work on is boxing out. We used our bodies well and that allowed us to get more boards.” Horseshoe Bend coach Chad Kison said, “It looked like we were just a step See BOYS • Page B2

After a back-andforth first half that saw Horseshoe Bend’s girls basketball leading by a point, the Reeltown Rebels slowly but surely started to pull away Tuesday night. Reeltown took a lead on an Ashlynn Thomas 3-pointer with 3:10 left in the third. From there, the Rebel defense went to work and ensured a 46-35 victory in area action. It was Reeltown’s first win of the young season. “It feels really good,” Rebel point guard Taniya Haynes said. “All of us have been playing together since my seventh-grade year, and it’s been a long road. But it feels really good to be playing like a team and get the win.” With two minutes left in the third quarter, Horseshoe Bend (2-4, 0-2) trailed just 28-26, but it didn’t score again for the remainder of the frame. Meanwhile, Reeltown (1-2, 1-0) went on a 14-point run extending into the fourth quarter and quickly led 42-26 with six minutes left. “I’ve been telling the girls the past few games, we’ve got to turn loose and just play,” Reeltown coach Will Solomon said. “We’re just too tight, and we looked like a different team than in the past when we turned it up and played defense. I think they took that to heart, and I liked the way we played as a team.” The biggest difference

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Reeltown’s Taniya Haynes directs traffic during Tuesday’s game against Horseshoe Bend.

was the Rebels’ defensive effort. They turned up the heat and finished with 14 total steals. Haynes had four, Diyanna Newton snatched three and Eryn Wells Mikiya Jones each grabbed two. With the strong defense came easier baskets on the other end, allowing Reeltown to pull away for good. “When we play defense, that just made our adrenaline rush and our shooters were getting open shots,” Haynes said. Horseshoe Bend coach Erica Meigs said, “We’ve just got to learn to handle

the ball against pressure. Just the little stuff — moving to the ball, we can’t wait on it. We need to make good passes and make sure when we’re dribbling, we’re handling it well.” One thing that kept Horseshoe Bend in the game early was its rebounding. After the past few games where the Generals struggled on the glass, they looked much improved, out-rebounding Reeltown, 38-30. Ivy Vickers led the way with 14 boards and capped it off with a 17-point See GIRLS • Page B2

ANDY GRAHAM Columnist

Auburn hoops winning despite turmoil

he Auburn basketball program has been the target of ridicule for nearly 30 years and rightly so with only three trips to the NCAA Tournament since 1989. Bruce Pearl began his fourth season on the Plains in November with what was supposed to be the Tigers’ most talented team since the days of Charles Barkley. Pearl has done an incredible job of creating fan interest and elevating the profile of the program. However, victories have still been a challenge with Auburn going 16-38 in the SEC in his first three years. 2018 was going to be the year the Tigers truly had a legitimate shot of making the NCAA Tournament. Everything was in place including a very talented roster stocked with four and five star players. Of course, no one was really counting on the bombshell FBI investigation into college basketball that resulted in the arrest of Auburn assistant coach Chuck Person in September. The ongoing investigation has cast a pall over the Tigers season and caused collateral damage sidelining two of Auburn’s most talented players. Austin Wiley and Danjel Purifoy have yet to play in a game this season due to eligibility concerns and it’s anyone’s guess if See GRAHAM • Page B2

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Members of the Top Flight Level One team that won the state championship are, front row, from left, Emma Forehand, Britley Beene, Maddie Rollins, Macie Jackson, Sophie Pike; back row, Tekoa Norton, Serenity Griffin-Lipscomb and Madilyn Bremmerman. Missing are Morgan Dozier and Becca Grace Dark.

Top Flight wins state team championship By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

Despite some girls being as young as 6 years old, the Top Flight Level One team has been dedicated to gymnastics all season long. And the group’s hard work was rewarded earlier this month, as the girls won first place at the state championship in Foley. “Our level ones, some are 6, 7 and 8 years old, are here four hours a week,” said Mary Elizabeth Vardaman, co-owner of Top Flight Gymnastics in Alexander City. “Some of them will come to an optional Friday practice, so they’re

definitely working for it. It’s all about commitment; the ones who are here that commit themselves to practice are the ones you see do better. That’s just sports in general.” In addition to winning the team state championship, Top Flight brought home four individual allaround state champions, including three in Level One and one in Level Two. The competition is divided into age groups with Top Flight Level One gymnasts ranging from 6 to 10, giving more girls the opportunity to earn the title of champion. The all-around state champs in Level One were Emma Forehand, who also was first in vault, bars and

floor; Macie Jackson, who placed first in vault and beam; and Serenity Lipscomb, who also earned the title in bars. In Level Two, Maddie Smith was first all-around and in beam. Not only were there four individual state champs, there were also four others who won state championships in individual events. “We recognize those girls as the vault state champion or the bars state champion, and we do highlight that because that’s a big deal,” Vardaman said. In Level One, Madilyn Bremmerman brought home state championships in the vault and bars; See TOP FLIGHT • Page B2

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Wednesday, December 13, 2017

The Outlook

Wildcats sweep Elmore County BRHS boys pull out overtime win By GRIFFIN PRITCHARD For The Outlook

While most of the game was played with patience in the half court, a frenetic battle for the basket summed up the closing moments as the visiting Benjamin Russell Wildcats picked up the 40-36 overtime victory Tuesday. “It was a competitive game,” BRHS coach Lewis Daniel said. “I told my team that when you go on the road, you have to play against the elements. But, to go out there and do what you do. Don’t let that offset you. I think my kids learned a valuable lesson about sticking to the gameplan.” In the waning minutes of regulation, the Panthers jumped ahead 33-32 and utilized every possession to slow the pace and bleed the clock. But with less than minute to go, Quin Burroughs (10 points) worked his way inside and scored the go-ahead basket. The Panthers answered. Donovon Jones (13 points) sank the back end of a pair free throws at the 27-second mark to tie the game at 34-34. “We played as well as we can against Benjamin Russell a big 6A school,” Panthers coach Warren Brown said. “We’ve been struggling trying to find our identity and still struggling to put some things together. But they did everything I asked them to do as far as strategy and gameplan.” After several changes of possession, Burroughs found himself with a chance to win the game. His dunk attempt clanged

Boys

File / The Outlook

Benjamin Russell’s Amelia Blakely, right, looks for a pass last week against Sylacauga. The Wildcats held Elmore County to 23 points Tuesday night.

off the back iron of the hoop and into the sky giving the Panthers the ball with 2.2 seconds in regulation. “I kept telling them we are going to get a break. We are going to get a turnover. We are going to get an opportunity,” Daniel said. “We really should have won the game in regulation. I told (Burroughs) all we need was a layup. You lay that ball in the basket and it’s ballgame. We don’t do anything fancy. Just win the game. But that taught us that you’ve got to learn the play the game and then learn to play the game.” Elmore County broke the press and DJ Patrick had a look at the hoop from the half court but failed to get the shot off before the buzzer. “We’ve been working on mental toughness and physical toughness,” Brown said. “I think we displayed a little bit of that tonight. Trust me, we are 1-7 for a reason. We aren’t doing thing correct the whole time. But we are starting to put it together. I do feel good though.” In the free period,

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slow tonight. We weren’t as aggressive as we usually are, especially on the glass. We usually rebound a lot better. We were just slow, and we didn’t show up. Usually our defense will carry us to our offense, and we shot the ball not real well. Defense was slow, and our offense turned into a slow game also.” Nalijah Heard was the only General to score more than seven points, and he finished with 22. For Reeltown, both O’Neal and Shaw had double-doubles. Shaw led all shooters with 24 points, and O’Neal contributed 10.

Burroughs scored on a layin to give the Wildcats the 36-34 lead. Elmore County answered with a Jones basket. Burroughs, however, fouled after a charge call underneath the hoop. Alex Doss, in off the bench, scored the go-ahead hoop with 1:34 left in the game, and a late Wildcats basket with 11.9 to go sealed the victory.

Defense too strong in girls victory

A litany of Elmore firstperiod turnovers turned the game in favor of Benjamin Russell in the girls game, 67-23. The Lady Wildcats — led by the combination of Jaaliyah Caldwell (24 points) and Taliah Hutchins (8 points) — went on a 12-0 opening stanza run, thanks primarily to the strength of their 1-3-1 defense. “(Caldwell) is doing great for us, she had 30, then 28 and now 24. She’s running the floor well and seeing her shots,” Wildcats coach Latreisha Moon said. “I actually pulled up (Hutchins) up from JV tonight. She started slow,

Girls

but she’s stepped up and is playing really well for us.” The defense, which forced Elmore County to make passes before it was ready, generated multiple Wildcat possessions. “I thought we ran (our defense) pretty good,” Moon said. “I thought it was effective. We got up by 20 points in the first quarter so we back off it and went to a 1-2-2. But I thought the girls did great. They were focused and came out ready to play.” Madison Traylor (12 points) opened the scoring for Elmore County with jumper inside the arc at the 3:30 mark. Benjamin Russell, however, kept on the offensive, outscoring the Panthers, 26-6, in the first quarter and 16-6 in the second. The second half played out similarly, with BRHS taking control early then sprinting ahead 52-16 following a pair of Elmore County baskets early. “When we go up big, we don’t try to let up, but we aren’t here to embarrass anybody,” said Moon. “So we try to change our defense up.”

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double-double. Caly Carlisle also pulled eight off the glass, and Nadia Freeman had six rebounds. “Rebounding was a lot better tonight,” Meigs said. “Ivy did a lot better tonight, and we’ve got to get that from her because most of the time she’s getting putbacks. We need that from her, and we’ve gotta let them have only one shot on offense.” Thomas led the Rebels with 20 points, including four

3-pointers, while Jones added 13 points. Marsheka Shaw grabbed six rebounds. Newton came off the bench to contribute four points, three rebounds, three assists and three steals. “We had a lot of people rotating in and out of the game, and I’m counting on a lot of these girls to contribute and keep us fresh,” Soloman said. “I think tonight they got a lot better at learning their roles and getting better at playing as a team.”

LOCAL SPORTS CALENDAR Thursday, Dec. 14 High school boys basketball Elmore County at Dadeville, 7 p.m. Reeltown at LaFayette, 6:30 p.m. High school girls basketball Elmore County at Dadeville, 5:30 p.m. Reeltown at LaFayette, 5 p.m. High school wrestling

Reeltown at Beulah, 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15 High school boys basketball Benjamin Russell at Central Coosa, 7 p.m. Reeltown at Dadeville, 7 p.m. Wadley at Horseshoe Bend , 7:30 p.m. High school girls basketball Benjamin Russell at Central Coosa, 5:30 p.m.

Graham they’ll play at all this year. There’s also been an apparent disconnect between the coaching staff and the Auburn administration over an internal investigation into the program. Rumors of Bruce Pearl’s dismissal have been swirling since the season began and the only thing everyone is sure of is that no one is sure of anything. Did I mention two assistant coaches have also been placed on administrative leave? Obviously, this season was over before it began. Or is it? Believe it or not, despite all the distractions Auburn is 8-1 after defeating UAB this past Saturday in Auburn Arena. That’s actually the best record to start a season for the Tigers since the 201112 season. They haven’t started the year 9-1 since the 2003-04

Reeltown at Dadeville, 5:30 Wadley at Horseshoe Bend, 6 p.m. High school wrestling Benjamin Russell at Dadeville, 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16 High school wrestling Benjamin Russell at Oxford duals tournament, 9 a.m.

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season. Auburn will have a chance to do that this coming Saturday when it takes on Middle Tennessee in Birmingham. Bruce Pearl deserves a lot of credit for keeping his team focused and battling through some very uncommon circumstances. To be honest, it hasn’t been an extremely difficult schedule, but the Tigers have won every game by double digits except one. Sophomore Moustafa Heron and junior Bryce Brown are leading the team in scoring, but everyone is contributing. Sophomore point guard Jared Harper looks more comfortable this season and has improved his assist-to-turnover ratio. Rebounding and defense were two of the biggest issues plaguing the Tigers last year. Sophomore Anfernee McLemore and junior Desean Murray have

made a huge difference cleaning the glass this season. Auburn has outrebounded its opponent in every game so far and played significantly better on the defensive end. Maybe the Tigers will actually get to play with their full complement of players at some point this season. Maybe not. Either way, I think Bruce Pearl may be doing some of his best coaching since he arrived in the Loveliest Village. Auburn has four more out of conference games before SEC play begins. If they could somehow get to 12-1, the Tigers first 20-win season since 2009 isn’t out of the question. All things considered, that would be an amazing accomplishment. Andy Graham is a regular columnist for The Outlook.

Submitted / The Outlook

Gaddy Rice, 6, bagged his first deer in Marengo County this season. The photo of his buck, a 10-point, 185-pounder, is in the running for prizes worth more than $3,000 in the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association’s Big Buck Photo Contest.

Big Buck Photo Contest prize package boosted STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Deer hunters, head to Alabama’s Black Belt region to find a trophy buck – and you may also land a big payoff from the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association Big Buck Photo Contest. Several Alabama businesses have donated new prizes to boost the total value for the winner to more than $3,000. “The generosity of so many has provided the greatest Big Buck Photo Contest prize package we’ve ever had throughout its six-year history. We are thankful for their support of our efforts to brand the region an outdoor destination,” said Pam Swanner, ALBBAA Project Director. “It’s this type of partnership, from those who work every day to boost the Black Belt’s economy, that will help draw attention to the great opportunities for hunters in the Black Belt.” The new prize package for the contest, which started with the opening of bow season in October and runs until Feb. 14, 2018, a week after this season’s close: • An Alabama Hog Control Thermal Hog Hunt for three, valued at $1,800. alabamahogcontrol.com • A Winchester XPR 270-caliber rifle from Central Alabama Farmers Cooperative in Selma, valued at $550. Facebook.com/centralfarmerscoop • A $300 cash donation from The Management Advantage in Helena. themanagementadvantage.com • An American Hunter 200-pound Tri-Pod Feeder, valued at $129, plus a $50 gift card from Rountree Outdoors in Selma. rountreeoutdoors.com • A $250 cash donation from the Southeastern Land Group. selandgroup.com Also, the winner — determined by the photo that receives the most “likes” on the ALBBAA Facebook page (Facebook.com/alabamablackbeltadventures) — will receive a Lifetime Alabama Wildlife Heritage License, valued at more than $200. To be eligible, the deer must be taken in the Black Belt during the 2017-2018 season and the photo must be emailed to photocontest@albaa.org. Photos uploaded to Facebook are not eligible and Big Buck Photo Contest winners from 2015-16 and 2016-17 are ineligible this year. Please include the name of the hunter and the county where the deer was taken with the email. The Black Belt includes the following counties: Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Crenshaw, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Pike, Russell, Sumter, Tuscaloosa and Wilcox. The Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association is committed to promoting and enhancing outdoor recreation and tourism opportunities in the Black Belt in a manner that provides economic and ecological benefits to the region and its citizens. For information, go to www.alabamablackbeltadventures. org.

Top Flight Caralina Tidwell and Aziah Lockhart both won in Level Two vault; and Ava Sanders won bars in Level Three. “There’s a lot of gyms in the state, and when we go to these competitions and we see all these Top Flight girls in the top first, second and third places on these events, that’s pretty awesome,” Vardaman said. “For the most part, if the girls stuck to their events and stayed on, we were ranking in the top across the board. That’s pretty cool because there’s some tough gyms in the state.” In addition to Top Flight’s first-place finishes, it also had a slew of second- and third-place awards. In Level One, Maddie Rollins led the way with second-place finishes in the vault, bars and all-around. Becca Grace Dark was runner-up in vault, Forehand in beam, and Jackson on floor. In Level Two, Tidwell earned second all-around and

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on floor and Lockhart also got second all-around. Individually, Maddie Smith was second on floor and Ariah Lockhart was second on vault. Third places finishes included Dark (Level One floor); Bremmerman (Level One allaround); Lipscomb (Level One vault); Tekoa Norton (Level One bars); Ariah Lockhart (Level Two all-around); Maddie Smith (Level Two vault and bars); Brently Nash (Level Two bars); and Sanders (Level Three beams and floor). “To pull out first as a team and to bring home four state champions — unless you’re in a big gym in Birmingham that has 1,000 students — in Alex City to have four state champions, that’s great,” Vardaman said. “It’s hard to stick with something when you don’t feel like you’re doing well in it. But when you come off a season like that, it’s pretty awesome.”

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Young Alabama politicians go with the flow to be successful

he legendary Speaker of the U.S. House, Sam Rayburn, coined a famous phrase he used often and imparted to young congressmen when they would arrive on Capitol Hill full of vim and vigor. He would sit down with them and invite them to have a bourbon and branch water with him. The old gentleman, who had spent nearly half a century in the Congress, after hearing their ambitions of how they were going to change the world, would look them in the eye and say, “You know here in Congress there are 435 prima donnas and they all can’t be lead horses.” Then the Speaker in his Texas drawl would say, “If you want to get along, you have to go along.” Mr. Sam Rayburn ruled as Speaker during the Franklin Delano Roosevelt postDepression and World War II era. The Democrats dominated Congress. Mr. Sam could count on the big city Congressmen from Tammany Hall in New York and the Chicago machine politicians following the Democratic leadership because

STEVE FLOWERS Columnist

they had gotten there by going along with the Democratic bosses who controlled the wards that made up their urban districts. But the country was still rural at that time and Mr. Sam would have to invite a backsliding rural member to his Board of Education meeting in a private den in the basement of the Capitol and occasionally explain his adage again to them that in order to get along you have to go along. One of Mr. Sam Rayburn’s young pupils was a freshly minted congressman from Alabama’s Tennessee Valley. Bob Jones from Scottsboro was elected to Congress in 1946 when John Sparkman ascended to the U.S. Senate. Speaker Rayburn saw a lot of promise in freshman congressman Jones. The ole

Alex City

FOOT

Texan invited Jones to visit his Board of Education meeting early in his first year. He calmly advised Jones to sit on the right side of the House chamber in what Mr. Sam called his pews. He admonished the young congressman to sit quietly for at least four years and not say a word or make a speech and to always vote with the Speaker. In other words if you go along you will get along. Bob Jones followed the sage advice of Speaker Rayburn and he got along very well. Congressman Bob Jones served close to 30 years in the Congress from Scottsboro and the Tennessee Valley. He and John Sparkman were instrumental in transforming the Tennessee Valley into Alabama’s most dynamic, progressive and prosperous region of the state. They spearheaded the location and development of Huntsville’s Redstone Arsenal. Bob Jones was one of Alabama’s greatest congressmen. At the time of Bob Jones’ arrival in Congress in 1946 we had nine congressional seats. By

the time, he left in the 1960’s we had dropped to eight. We now have seven. Folks, I hate to inform you of this but population growth estimates reveal that we are going to lose a seat after the next census in 2020. Our current seven-person delegation consists of six Republicans and one Democrat. This sole Democratic seat is reserved for an African American. The Justice Department and Courts will not allow you to abolish that seat. Reapportionment will dictate that you begin with that premise. The growth and geographic location of the Mobile/Baldwin district of Bradley Byrne cannot be altered, nor can the urban Tennessee Valley 5th District, nor the Jefferson/Shelby 6th District. They are unalterable and will also reveal growth in population. Our senior and most powerful Congressman, Robert Aderholt’s 4th District has normal growth and you do not want to disrupt his tenure path. Therefore, the odd man out may be a woman. It is conjectured that Martha Roby’s 2nd District is the one on

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the chopping block. Her second and Mike Rogers’ 3rd District will be combined into a new 2nd district. However, Roby may exit before she is carved out. She made a colossal blunder in 2016 by denouncing and publicly stating that she was not going to vote her party’s GOP nominee, Donald Trump. The fallout was devastating. She has become a pariah in her southeast Alabama district. It is one of the most conservative and pro-Republican districts in the state. She may survive 2018, because any serious challenger who has their own money to buy the seat may be wise enough to realize that District will not be here in four more years. It will be over in Georgia around Atlanta. See you next week.

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www.alexcityoutlook.com

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

The Outlook

Chit-Chatters enjoyed Mistletoe Bough 50+ has several upcoming outings

B 9.

elated birthday wishes to the lovely Dilly Wade of Jacksons Gap. It was celebrated on Dec.

A very special couple, Charlie and Nelda Hayes, in Kellyton celebrate 63 years of marriage on Dec. 18 and Chason Montgomery Channell will turn 18 on Dec. 16. Sincere sympathies to the Ott family in Nixburg and beyond. Pete’s family has suffered so much loss this year. On Sunday Dec. 10, Pete’s nephew Buddy Ott died an early death in Montgomery after having cancer of the brain and lungs, and getting some treatments. So very sad for this season or anytime. The Chit-Chatters from around the Equality area enjoyed a good Christmas gathering at the MistletoeBough Bed and Breakfast in Alex City. We had a green salad, cup of potato soup, chicken salad croissant and cake. We filled up the dining room, so a few of our ladies helped to serve others. Once we were seated, we really couldn’t move with ease. After the luncheon, we retired to the living room for a quick game of “Dirty Santa,” which is always fun. The inside of the Mistletoe-Bough was fully decorated and it felt so Christmassy. Many big Thank-you’s to the leader Jackie Dean. She always does a super job of making everyone feel part of the group, makes the arrangements for lunches that we suggest and vote on and nothing is too much to ask. Those lovely ladies in attendance were: Becky Scott, pastor at Equality United Methodist Church, Betty Haynes, Betty House, Irma Traylor, Jackie Dean, Jean Moe-Prince, with daughter, Joy Mecabe, and granddaughter Hailey Mecabe visiting from Colorado. Janice Moses, Jean Baker, Jodi McDade, Joyce Dixon, Judy Denham, Laura Farris, Linda Seitz, and Pat Hipp. Lucrecia Chappell, Lynda Moseley, Mary Mallory and her oh so sweet and pretty grand-daughter Mallory Kate Paterson who is 4. Martha James, Nancy Holman, Neta Stephens, and always so festively dressed Norma Philhower. Pat Garnett, Pat Hipp, Patty Self, Rachael Fuller, Robbie Martin, Rosie Morgan, Sharon Culberson, Sue Best, Teresa Shurum and always quite a delight, Yvonne Myers.

ROSIE MORGAN Nixburg/Equality

Next time, Thursday, Jan. 25, the Chit-Chatters will meet in Rockford at the Triple RRR, so mark your new calendar to meet us there at 11 a.m. We love to have new members, and this luncheon group is open to all ladies. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Although I’m sure many of you like me, and not ready just yet. We heard a low flying plane around dinner-time last Friday afternoon. You know, the loud ones that make you look up to see what it’s all about. We were inside as were most of Nixburg if possible, as the snow we had to fall during the wee hours of Friday had stuck and was building on its thickness. We lost power at home about 5 p.m. on Friday and we finally got power Saturday night about 9 p.m. This outage was very widespread for Alabama Power and Central Electric Co-Op. It is extremely cold in this old house without any heat at all. Lucky that we use gas to cook and we enjoyed a loaded baked potato. Saturday overnight we had some good-sized pine trees to fall across our driveway. Luckily, we had not planned to go anywhere. Really reminded of my younger, childhood years in the London area. Then, the snow made it exciting, and shopping was done by taking the local bus at the end of our road up to Eastcote Shopping Centre. There also you could catch a train to another larger town for the big department stores. Everyone seemed inspired and many would say, “Happy Christmas.” Back then The Salvation Army Band would play Christmas Carols at the Eastcote train station entrance. The players and singers were all dressed smartly in the Army uniform. Until next week, stay warm and hydrated, and keep smiling. Rosie Morgan is a community columnist for The Outlook. She is a resident of Nixburg and writes about the events and people of Equality and Nixburg areas.

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he Alexander City Parks and Recreation 50+ have several scheduled upcoming outings and activities. The Men’s Lunch Outing will be this Wednesday. Those going need to be at the Activity Center a little before 10 a.m. Queen’s Mystery Outing takes place on Thursday at the Center at 9:30 a.m. On Friday, the first set of Travel Group members will be leaving at 2 p.m. to go see the Christmas Lights at Callaway Gardens. Our second group of Travel members will also be traveling to see the lights on Monday, Dec. 18. Leaving at the same time of 2 p.m. from the Activity Center. The Monthly Luncheon will be on Wed, Dec. 20 starting at 11:30 a.m. Our Hilltop Players group will be entertaining us with a funny and cheerful skit that you don’t want to miss. Several ACPR 50+ members requested to bring back the Dirty Santa event which will be on Thursday, Dec. 21 from 4 p.m. till 6 p.m. Bring a $5 to $8 wrapped gift to participate. Refreshments will be provided. The Beginner’s Dancing class on Dec. 19 has been cancelled. Please help us inform those that do attend the class. Thank you Martha Keel, Frank McFee and Judy Keel willing to volunteer your time to lead this new activity. Wintertime Tips: • Avoid Slipping on Ice: Make sure to wear shoes with good traction and non-skid soles, and stay inside until the roads are clear. Replace a worn cane tip to making walking easier. Take off shoes as soon as you return indoors because often snow and ice attach to the soles and, once melted, can lead to slippery conditions inside. • Dress for Warmth: According to the CDC, more than half of hypothermia-related deaths were of people over the age of 65. Your body temperature should never dip below 95 degrees -- if it does get medical

CORLEY HOLT Senior Moments

assistance immediately. Layer up! • Fight Wintertime Depression: Because it can be difficult and dangerous to get around, many seniors have less contact with others during cold months. This can breed feelings of loneliness and isolation. Check in on your fellow seniors as often as possible; even a short, daily phone call can make a big difference. Senior neighbors could and should arrange a check-in system, where each person looks in on one or two others daily. • Check the Car: Get your car serviced during the winter season. • Prepare for Power Outages: Make sure you have easy access to flashlights and a battery-powered radio in case the power goes out. Stockpile warm blankets. If the power goes out, wear several layers of clothing, including a hat. Move around a lot to raise your body temperature. The most important tip to keep in mind during the colder months is to ask for help. If you need to clear your property of snow and ice, don’t hesitate to ask a family member or neighbor, or hire a professional. Arrange rides to the grocery store and doctor’s appointments-many communities have shuttle services. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. ACPR 50+ send out get well soon wishes to Brenda Burnette. Until next time keep a smile on your face and love in your heart. Holt writes about the events and people of the Alexander City Parks and Recreation Department’s 50+ Club.

Is it Medicare or Medicaid?

lot of people have a difficult time understanding the difference between Medicare and Medicaid. Both programs begin with the letter “M.” They’re both health insurance programs run by the government. People often ask questions about what Medicare and Medicaid are, what services they cover, and who administers the programs. Let’s start with Medicare. Medicare is the national healthcare program for those aged 65 or older and the disabled. You pay for some Medicare expenses by paying the Medicare tax while you work. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is the agency in charge of both Medicare and Medicaid, but you sign up for Medicare A (Hospital) and Medicare B (Medical) through Social Security. You can apply for Medicare online from the convenience of your home at the link on our website: www. socialsecurity.gov/medicare/. If you’re already receiving Social Security retirement benefits when you reach age

KYLLE’ D. MCKINNEY Alabama Social Security

65 or are in the 25th month of receiving disability checks, we will enroll you automatically. Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) and Part D (Prescription Drug) plans are available for purchase in the insurance marketplace. Social Security administers a program called Extra Help to help people with low income and low resources pay for premiums, co-pays, and co-insurance costs for Part D plans. You can find out more about Extra Help and file for it at www.socialsecurity.gov/ medicare/prescriptionhelp. Each year, The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services publishes Medicare and You available online at their website at www. medicare.gov/medicare-andyou/medicare-and-you.html. This publication is a user’s manual for Medicare. Each state runs their own Medicaid program under

guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Medicaid offers care for the most vulnerable among us. While it does not require paying taxes while working, it does have guidelines about how much income and resources you can have to qualify. Medicaid provides coverage for older people, people with disabilities, and some families with children. Each state has its own eligibility rules and decides which services to cover. The names of the Medicaid program may vary from state to state. You can read about each state’s Medicaid program at www.medicaid.gov/ medicaid/by-state/by-state. html. You can find each state’s Medicaid contact information at www.medicaid.gov/aboutus/contact-us/contact-statepage.html. Medicare and Medicaid are two of the major insurance programs that provide healthcare to the American public. Understanding each program, as well as how the two programs differ, can help you and those you care about find the right healthcare program.

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