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TUESDAY
THE
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892
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December 19, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 250 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢
Reeltown takes down Dadeville
LOCAL, PAGE 9
‘Rented Christmas’ a success
City council approves land deal This former manufacturing site that has become unsightly will be cleaned up, a move that will allow the city to save on sewer repairs.
Move will cleanup dilapidated structures, save on sewer repairs
By MITCH SNEED Editor
A former manufacturing site that has become unsightly will be cleaned up including the removal of all structures, a move that will allow the city to save big bucks on much-needed sanitary sewer repair. The Alexander City City Council approved a move where the city will purchase the prop-
erty on Franklin Street that was once Alex City Provision Company, which was also known as the Alabama Food Group, from the state for a nominal fee. That will enable the city to explore grant funds to take down all the dilapidated buildings and then fix a major sewer line issue that lies beneath the structures. To repair the line with the structures present would cost the city almost $1 million. But See COUNCIL • Page 9
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Police search for suspects in store theft By MITCH SNEED Editor
A major theft from a local convenience store, shots fired and another accident involving a semi on Highway 280 were among the calls that kept the Alexander City Police Department busy over the weekend. Just before 8 a.m. Saturday, two men came to Koons III at 941 Jefferson Street and asked the clerk for help because they had a flat tire. They claimed not to have a jack and asked the clerk if she may have one they could use. See THEFT • Page 3
‘Treat everyone like you treat yourself’ Roberson calling it quits after 45 years — sort of By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
T Submitted / The Outlook
Police are searching for two suspects after money and several cartons of cigarettes were stolen from a local convenience store over the weekend.
om Roberson is kind a calling it quits after 45 years in the accounting business in Alexander City. “I am approaching retirement age,” Roberson said Monday as he slowly goes through things in his office on Church Street. “The seventh day of February I will be 90 years old. Don’t you think that is about retirement age?” Roberson handles everything from bookkeeping to sales tax reports to income tax. Today Roberson still does most of his work by See ROBERSON • Page 3
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Tom Roberson’s office is home to part of a collection of artifacts he has collected over the years, especially on vacations to the West. Above, he holds a picture of his memorabilia from his time in army and as a constable.
Despite online shopping, downtown merchants see good holiday sales By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Donald Campbell / The Outlook
Cloud Nine employee Rachel Rogers assists a customer browsing the store Monday afternoon.
Today’s
Weather
64 60 High
Lake Martin
Lake Levels
483.86
Reported on 12/18/17 @ 3 p.m.
Low
With Christmas being only a week away, shoppers are out and about looking for the perfect last-minute gift for someone. Shopping malls are crowded and online retailers are making a mint providing customers with their every need. As online sales totals continue to spiral higher and higher, there are those who ask if it is possible for brick and mortar stores to continue to survive. For shops in the downtown Alexander City area, though shopping on the Internet has had some impact on sales, many of them have said they are still seeing good sales totals over the past few weeks. A handful of shoppers checked out Carlisle’s Monday, taking advantage of the special hours, while others moved among many of the other stores lining Main Street.
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“Things have been good so far. We opened up the gift shop today since it’s almost Christmas,” Leanna Easterwood, a manager at Carlisle’s said Monday. “We can tell some things have dropped off, but people are still coming in and buying. We’ve even had people come in to shop with us and say they wish they hadn’t shopped online, that they had come in here before going online.” Easterwood added that the gift wrapping station Carlisle’s offers its customers has been beneficial, and has been made even more efficient by having two stations, one in the front for small items and one in the back for larger gifts. “We’ve run several specials, and we’ve been getting a good response from them,” Jim Cotney, owner of Cotney’s Jewelers said. “We’re a custom jewelry store, so people aren’t going to be able to find these See SHOPPING • Page 3
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Karaoke fans have more love for singing than talent
Wednesday
70 46 Low
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Thursday
63 47 Low
High Mostly sunny
Staff
Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Amy Passaretti Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, Ext. 228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
The Outlook
Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com Santana Wood Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 santana.wood@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Retail Sales Manager, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Digital Marketing Coordinator, Ext. 231 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 wife, “Karen,” loves to sing karaoke along with many others, most of whom are vocally challenged. Listening to some of them can be grueling when we go out. Karen knows many of these “performers,” and when they finish, she goes and tells them what a great job they’ve done. When I asked her why she gives the false compliments, she said, “I don’t want to hurt their feelings.” Well, the same goes for Karen. The other singers compliment her to the point that she now believes she has a competition-worthy voice. In reality, while her voice isn’t terrible, it’s nowhere near what she thinks it is. My wife is the love of my life and the nicest person I’ve ever known. I’m concerned for the future if someone should ever be honest with her about this because, so far, no one has been. Should I tell her the truth to save her from potential public embarrassment, or should I keep my mouth shut? -- COVERING MY EARS
DEAR ABBY Advice
DEAR COVERING: Unless your wife decides to audition for “American Idol,” the chances of her being booed off stage are slim. You don’t have to sing her praises, but I see nothing positive to be gained by diminishing her pleasure in performing. The word from here is: Keep your lip zipped. DEAR ABBY: I have a wonderful, kind sister-in-law I’ll call “Margaret.” Our sons were born in the same year. She has chosen to keep her son home, while I am sending mine to day care. Both boys are toddlers now. The problem is, my son is socialized, while hers is not. Margaret’s son is mean and unwilling to share or play with my child. He lacks empathy and seeks only adult attention.
Because of his lack of socialization and outright unsafe behavior, I don’t want my son around him. Am I wrong for not wanting him to be exposed to this behavior? My husband says it’s good for our little one to learn how to deal with mean behavior, since it will make him “tough.” However, I don’t feel it’s our child’s job to learn to be tough at such a young age. -- DAY CARE ACCEPTING MOMMY DEAR DAY CARE MOMMY: Perhaps your son should see this cousin only when they will be closely supervised. Your child may learn to “toughen up” later, but at the age of 2 or 3, it’s a bit premature. The child who may be in for trouble is his cousin, because learning concepts like sharing and empathy enable children to successfully socialize with others throughout their lives. DEAR ABBY: I know for a fact that gifts I have given to family members are often immediately given away. Should I confront them about
this? I’d like to suggest that instead of giving the gift away they please return it to me. Of course, I know I could just quit giving them gifts. But I’d like for them to know the reason, instead of appearing to be stingy. Anxious for your opinion. -- ANXIOUS IN FORT WORTH DEAR ANXIOUS: This is a delicate situation, but it can be handled if you’re careful not to cause embarrassment when you tell your relatives you know what they’ve been doing with your gifts. Perhaps, rather than say you will just quit giving them gifts, you should offer to give them gift cards for a store they like. That way they can have something they will enjoy. 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.
Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) Kenneth Boone The Outlook is published five times Photography and a week, Tuesday through Saturday a commercial web mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, printing press. Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.
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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.
© 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
Audra Spears / The Outlook
Benson wins in Santa’s Grand Cash Giveaway
Radney beginner band holds first concert of year Obituaries
Stephanie Benson was awarded $150 as the Week 4 winner in Santa’s Grand Cash Giveaway. Benson is pictured with TPI employee, Scott Hardy.
By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
The beginner band at Radney Elementary School closed out a successful first semester Wednesday with an inclass concert for parents to come and enjoy. “This was the first concert for this year’s beginner band,” Director Crystal Baldwin said. “They started learning how to play their instruments at the end of August.” Currently, Baldwin said there are three separate classes of students in beginner band, and parents were invited to come to the school and listen to the concert during their student’s particular class period. Around 60 parents took advantage of this opportunity and enjoyed the 20-minute long performance of selections out of the students’ beginning band book. “The students were very excited to get to perform and have their parents get to come and listen,” Baldwin said. “The parents were all very complimentary of the show. They were
happy to be invited into the classroom to see what’s been going on.” Having previously served as a band director at Alexander City Middle School, Baldwin has taken the role of beginning band director at Radney Elementary School seriously, helping better prepare her sixth-grade musicians for the rigors of being in the band at the middle school and Benjamin Russell High School. “I think they’ve improved tremendously since the start of the school year,” Baldwin said. “They came in not being able to read music, and they’re playing really well now.” When students return to class in January, Baldwin said they would begin preparing for a few smaller concerts to be held for the rest of the school before holding a big concert, most likely to take place in early May. All of the concerts the beginner band will take part in during the spring semester will be a combined effort of all three band classes at Radney. Despite the three beginning band classes not having come together for an official performance yet this school year, Baldwin had nothing but good things to say about her second crop of sixthgrade band members. “They’re a great group of students,” she said. “They are moving at a great pace.”
Geneva Helen Easterwood 1925 - 2017 Funeral Service for Geneva Helen Easterwood, 92, of Alexander City will be Monday, December 18, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the Radney Funeral Home. Rev. Clyde Coker will officiate. Mrs. Easterwood passed away on Saturday, December 16, 2017 at Chapman’s Nursing Home. She was born on September 20, 1925 in Tallapoosa Co. to Thomas Jefferson Adair and Mae Saunders Adair. She was a member of Lebanon Baptist Church, enjoyed reading her Bible, loved her family dearly, and had a love for cooking, sewing, and genealogy.
She is survived by her sons, Phillip Easterwood (Peggy) of Dadeville, Marcus “Mark” Easterwood (Debra) of Jacksons Gap, AL, eight grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Hugh Easterwood, son, Harold Easterwood, parents, seven sisters, and two brothers. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to one’s favorite charity in her memory or family will accept cards and condolences. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www. radneyfuneralhome.com.
Mrs. Elizabeth Owensby, 67, of Alexander City, passed away on Friday, December 15, 2017. She was born on October 19, 1950 in El Paso, Texas to Louie Edward Collins and Dollie Elizabeth Taylor Collins. She was an avid animal lover and especially loved her cats. Her grandchildren were the light in her life and not a minute went by that she didn’t brag on them. She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Stanford (Huel) of Alexander City; sons, Edward Reid of Alex City and Billy Nytko (Clara) of Norfolk,
Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Ms. Marie Burkhalter of Alexander City, Alabama passed away Saturday, December 16, 2017 at Arbor Spring Healthcare, Opelika, Alabama. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by Wright’s Funeral Home.
Mrs. Sara Patterson Harry 1921 - 2017 Funeral Service for Mrs. Sara Patterson Harry, 96, of Goldville, Alabama, will be Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the New Salem Baptist Church. Rev. Tom Drake and Randy Anderson will officiate. Burial will follow in the Bethlehem-New Salem Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 19, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. She will lie instate at the Church for one hour prior to the service. Mrs. Harry passed away on Sunday, December 17, 2017 at
Mrs. Elizabeth Owensby 1950 - 2017
VA; grandchildren, Hailey Kyle (Jake), Devin Walrod, Cody Walrod, Elizabeth Nytko and Katherine Nytko; sister, Donna Sexton of Montgomery; brothers, Charles Collins of CO and Paul Collins (Linda) of Las Vegas, NV; uncle, Bill Taylor (Vicki) of NC; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jimmy Owensby; and sister, Patricia Augg. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www. radneyfuneralhome.com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Ms. Marie Burkhalter
her residence. She was born on September 15, 1921 in Tallapoosa County to Levi Patterson and Leola Jones Patterson. She was an active member of New Salem Baptist Church and was a long time Sunday School and Vacation Bible School Teacher. She worked as a weaver at the Russell Corp for more than 40 years. She was an excellent cook and loved farming, fishing, and growing flowers. Mrs. Sara lived a wonderful Christian life and was an inspiration to many. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Doris Harry of Daviston; sister, Ruth Brown of Gordo, AL; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Felton Lavelle
Harry; her parents; brothers, Jones Patterson, James Patterson, Grady Patterson and S.G. Patterson; sisters, Mary Lou Rosser, Elsie Moore, Norene Huey, Julia Tom Patterson and Vivian Kelly. The family will accept flowers or memorial contributions may be made to New Salem Baptist Church, 13930 Hwy 22 East, New Site, AL 36256, or to the Alabama Baptist Children’s Home, 2681 Rocky Ridge Lane, Birmingham, AL 35216. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome. com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
SOLD IT FAST How to Submit Obituaries IN ITHE CLASSIFIEDS Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by email at obits@alexcityoutlook.com For more information, call (256) 234-4281.
Selling your stuơ is simple with help from the ClassiƤeds. Let us help you place an ad today, in print or online! Please Call
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Tuesday, December 19, 2017
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Roberson
continued from page 1
hand in the day but gets a little help. “My daughter does my computer work,” Roberson said. “What I do today, she puts in tonight. She is a computer nut.” And he has a secret for being able to stay in business as long as he has. “Treat everybody like you treat yourself,” Roberson said. “I enjoy what I do. I enjoy people. I do all of them just like its mine. I don’t want to go to jail. I don’t want to pay more than I have to.” Roberson told one story that tells of his dedication to his customers and their dedication to him. “I still have several businesses I deal with on a monthly basis,” Roberson said. “I have a family out in Buttston. I would pick up her work. I do the sales tax report. I take it back to her. I went out there this past September and the store was closed. I didn’t worry about it. I knew she was getting in her 80s. I thought she went to the doctor. I went back a week later and she was still closed. Her son lived next door but I didn’t know his cell number. I knew he worked in Opelika. So I went back on a Saturday and the store was open. Her son was in the store. I went and saw him. I figured he was going to tell meshe had passed. He said she had been in the hospital for four weeks. I was helping her to the bed and she turned and asked have you called Mr. Roberson. He said I will call Mr. Roberson in the morning. She replied, you should have already called him. I have seen that man every month for 45 years. He is worried about me. That is a compliment. My people won’t let me retire.” Roberson says his regular clients already know his current work habits. “I am not here everyday,” he said. “I just come and go. The ones I keep, know that I am in here at 8 a.m. and I might be
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Tom Roberson talks about some of his family photographs including photos of his wife of 67 years.
gone by 9 a.m. If you need something, call me.” Roberson is one of six boys and two girls who grew up in Sycamore, a place he knew he wanted to not come back to. “Five of us had military service, four in World War II and two in Korea,” Roberson said. “I grew up in Sycamore. There ain’t nothing there but a cotton mill.” Roberson got his start with numbers while in the army. “In World War II, they took all our men out of the factories and farms,”
Roberson said. “I was a prize for the Army. I was a pencil pusher. I could type 60 words a minute on the old manual typewriters.” Roberson spent his military career helping set up headquarters operations for the Army around the world. “All I knew when I came out of the service, I wasn’t going back to a cotton mill,” Roberson said. Roberson had come home from Germany thinking he would go back. “I came from Germany with the intentions of going back in,” Roberson said. “I
could stay home 90 days and go back in at the same rank. That was my plan.” But Ruthie Roberson changed that plan and made it possible for an accounting business owned by Roberson. “The only transportation from Sycamore to Sylacauga was a city bus and it cost a dime,” Roberson said. “I was going to the little restaurant in Sylacauga and I got to flirting with the ladies. She (Ruthie) was working there. We started dating. I said then this is where I am going to stay.” Roberson got called up again for the Korean Conflict. “I was recalled for the Korean War,” Roberson said. “I reported to Biloxi and they kept me. They needed someone who could do this.” Roberson learned early the key to marriage. “I learned early to say yes ma’am,” Roberson said. “We didn’t have 67 years without problems but we resolved them. We resolved them early.” Roberson’s life revolves around his six children. He has a total of 37 children, children in law, grand children and great grandchildren. “It’s still growing,” he said. “I have had a good life. I have a good family.” Roberson says his clients are not letting him go into retirement easily. “They won’t let me outta here,” Roberson said. And it is something Roberson is not just going to give up either. “I am trying my best to get outta here,” Roberson said. “but I am going to dabble still.” Roberson still has not decided when he will close up shop. “I just downsized to what I could handle,” Roberson said. “My last day – when my feet turn up.”
Theft When the store cleared, she went and looked to see if she could help. She was unable to find a jack. As customers started to come to the store, she went back inside and thought she had left the two men outside. A short time later one of the men came into the store and purchased an aerosol tire repair kit. It wasn’t until hours later that employees realized that several cartons of cigarettes and money from the safe was taken. While they were in the store, they apparently turned off the video cameras as well, but not before some images were captured on their entrance to the store. Alicia Joyce Shah described what she saw on the video before the cameras were turned off. “He tiptoed slowly ducked down to my safe as if he knew exactly where it was,” Shah said. “That’s when he grabbed the money out of my safe and he grabs all my $20s and all my $100 bills. He ended up taking several thousand dollars Newport 100s in a box.”
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The suspects, shown here from surveillance footage, were seen arriving and later leaving in a silver Lincoln LS. Shah said they didn’t even fill up the tire when they left and she could hear it grinding as they pulled away from the store. She just hopes that police will be able to find the people responsible. “I’m a very strong believer of karma he’ll get what’s coming to him in time,” Shah said. “But I also know no matter what even if and when he gets caught I’ll never get to see the money again. I try to help people and these people do something like this. I’ve already bought Christmas for over 250 children that I don’t even know. I’ve also helped three other families and haven’t even bought my own child a Christmas gift yet. This really, really hurt me deep down inside, – it’s like him taking from my child.” Alexander City Police Department Assistant Chief James Easterwood said they have some leads and may have a
Submitted / The Outlook
Police are still searching for two suspects after a convenience store breakin over the weekend. The suspects were seen in a silver Lincoln L.S.
name of one of the two men they believe to be responsible. “We have an investigator on this case and they have
Shopping
developed some information,” Easterwood said. “This is still an active investigation and there are some things we can’t release
at this time. But we do believe those are the two that are responsible and we are working to identify them.” Easterwood said that they are also investigating a Saturday night incident where shots were fired in an area on Highway 22 not far from the Sportplex known as “The Hangout.” “We got a call that someone had a gun and fired shots and it appears that they were fired in the air,” Easterwood said. “No one was hit, but there were some minor injuries where people fell as they were running to get away from the area.” Easterwood said that a short time later Coosa County authorities made a traffic stop on a vehicle believed to be carrying the shooters. Their status was unknown Monday afternoon. On Friday, a collision between a tractor-trailer and a pickup truck at about 9 p.m. left a good bit of damage to the smaller truck, but no one was seriously injured. Traffic was tied up and rerouted for about 45 minutes while the wreckage was cleared.
continued from page 1
to meander through brick and for us right now.” town. these stores, getting to physisame things online.” mortar shops to find that one While logging on to a com“The holidays are always While many downtown busi- cally browse the items,” she perfect gift. If the trend stores puter and shopping with a vira busier time for us,” Coffee said. “Some like to stay local nesses have seen good sales in downtown Alexander City tual store may be convenient, Corner co-owner Tony Blanco instead of trying to fight the from people coming into the have seen during the 2017 holiallowing one to take care of said. “For us, it’s been pretty big crowds elsewhere.” store, a few have benefited day season hold true, then they everything on a Christmas list good so far. A lot of people Even employees at The from both having a storefront will not be going away any without having to leave home, come in for gift cards this Coffee Corner said they notice and offering goods online. time soon. there are still those who prefer time of the year. Gift cards are when sales are going up or “You can tell online has had where it’s at down in stores around downa real presence,” Ooh La La owner Laura Yoder said. “We did just about as much online as we did in the store last week.” • On Time Convenience - When you have a busy schedule, Yoder also said the you need a plumber that shows up at the agreed time. last two weeks have been great for sales at Ooh La • True Choice in Your Hands - The work we La, and felt this week do has to be absolutely right for you, your could see even better numbers as the final days Merry home and your budget. before Christmas come Christmas • Care For Your Home - With background and go. Downtown Girl owner checks and drug testing, you can rest assured Beth Haney said her store you and your home are safe. has not seen a major Great Location • Peaceful Setting change in sales, despite • Upfront Pricing - Have peace of mind knowing the price Comfortable Living the astronomical growth before any work is started. of online shopping. Like ONE MONTH FREE RENT REN Carlisle’s, Downtown Restrictions Apply • Your Home or Business - You get a professional plumber Girl offers its customers a giftwrapping service for that has been specially trained to serve your every plumbing Rent Based On Income, items purchased in the need from A to Z. Call A&M Plumbing today. 62 Years And Older Or Mobility Impaired store, which could help contribute to additional Refrigerator, Stove, Carpet, Blinds, Heat/Air, Go to www.amplumbing.net for more, plus get sales at the shop. Haney Tile With Carpet, Laundry Room Facilities – also expressed her sentiyour copy of Interviewing Your Contractor. Electric and Water Included ments on why physical
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EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 4
Our
Opinion
T
Know Your
Officials Communication with elected officials is the key to good government. To let your most local representatives know how you feel about state or local matters, contact any of the following. Governor Kay Ivey represents the state of Alabama and its 67 counties. She was sworn into office on April 10, 2017, and can be reached at 334242-7100. Her office is located at the State Capitol at 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama.
Steve Marshall was appointed Alabama’s 50th Attorney General. He was appointed in 2017 and serves as the State’s chief law enforcement officer. He can be reached at 334-242-7300, and his office is located at 501 Washington Avenue, Montgomery. Mark Tuggle (R) represents the 81st District covering Coosa, Chilton and Tallapoosa counties. He can be reached by phone at 256-392-2006 or by email at tughd81@gmail. com. His office is located at 110 Calhoun Street, Suite 108, Alexander City. Tom Whatley represents the 27th District covering Lee, Russell and Tallapoosa County. He was elected to the Alabama Senate on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334242-t7865. His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn.
Kay Ivey
Steve Marshall
Mark Tuggle
Tom Whatley
The
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
How Santa became part of my life Today’sQuote
Don’t be taken M by door-to-door fundraising scams he Christmas season brings out the generosity in all of us, so, naturally, it’s the season when a lot of groups raise funds. There are the United Way and its drive toward its campaign’s end, the Salvation Army’s red kettles and a plethora of smaller, more targeted efforts like toy drives and food drives. There are also scams, and this year they seem particularly prevalent in our area. Most of these scams involve door-to-door solicitations of potential victims. Also, if you’re alone in a parking lot – like an Outlook reader was on Thursday evening – you may be approached. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to dismiss out of hand anyone who solicits you at your door or on the street. Already in this Christmas season, people in both Alexander City and Dadeville have been solicited to support causes we have since learned do not solicit door-todoor. Not now, not ever. We know that our readers work hard for their money and have their own plans for how to spend their Christmas cash. It would be a shame to be taken for one cent of that hard-earned money by someone who expects something for nothing and will take advantage of the most generous among us to get exactly that. Here at the Outlook, we want to remind you again to be on the safe side and give only to those organizations you know as reputable, like the United Way or the Salvation Army. If you have someone come to your door to solicit donations for any agency, politely tell them no and report them to the authorities. Law enforcement needs to check them out so they can know whether they are legitimate. We don’t want you to be a Scrooge. If you feel moved to help someone this holiday season, do it through the United Way or Salvation Army. This is the time of year they need your donations most. Just don’t be taken in by someone who wants only to line their own pockets. Together, we can let these scam artists know our community is extremely generous, but too smart to fall for their fake fundraiser fraud.
Outlook
y best friend was Santa Claus. Well, not the absolute real North Pole Santa Claus but the most authentic Santa I ever knew. Steve Donaldson was his name in real life, but we called him Santa Steve. He started attending our church nearly 20 years ago. We became fast friends. He dated my secretary for a while. When they broke up, he and I began hanging out. When I bought an 80-year-old house in need of some serious love, Santa Steve, who knew how to renovate old homes became my general contractor. We worked every day for a full year turning my old dilapidated house into charming, beautiful home. He worked for a car auction company in Atlanta. What he loved was being Santa 365 days a year. Steve bought a house across the street from me, and we saw each other every day. He would come over early in the morning and ask me what Jane, my wife, had fixed for breakfast. He would pull up a chair, and if we forgot to say a blessing, he would stop us and insist we all hold hands and say grace. He was the brother I had never had. I loved Santa Steve. He had the best look of any Santa I have ever seen. In 2006 Coca Cola, Inc. recognized
RAY WATERS Columnist
Steve’s striking Santa resemblance when they named him their 75th Anniversary Santa Clause. In 2014, the Jackson/ Hartsfield International Airport asked Steve to be its first official Santa Claus. For years, Steve was seen by Atlantans as Santa in the WSB Thanksgiving Day parade, the most watched parade each year in Atlanta. He also loved serving at Children’s Healthcare at Egleston and Scottish Rite where he volunteered his time to bring smiles to the faces of the sick children. He was tireless in his efforts to make kids smile and believe in the magic of Christmas. Santa Steve loved doing home visits. He loved seeing children brighten up when they would see him in their home. I was able to be with him on Christmas morning when he visited with one of our neighbors, Michael Howell who has an adult sister with special needs named Jan. I saw more excitement and joy from Jan, who has the mentality of a three-year-old, that morning when Ho Ho came to her
house than I have ever seen from anyone in my life. Every day was magic when you are friends with Santa. Then one morning nearly two years ago, Steve borrowed our lawnmower to cut his grass, and when he finished he sat on a wall between his yard and the sidewalk and laid back in the grass, and he died of a massive heart attack. A neighbor saw him and called out to Jane and me. We went to his side, but his life had already left him. It has been a tough loss for us. We grieved, and life moved on. But I think about him nearly every day. It is pretty fantastic to be friends with Santa. When Santa passed away, Michael, the man with the special needs adult sister, wrote these words about him. “I just read about the passing this morning of my neighborhood’s Santa Steve. In the Catholic church, you need two certified miracles to be considered for sainthood. If that be true, that kindly man should be home free for canonization. I know so many people for whom he brought back childhood’s greatest dream, Santa Claus and made us understand, like Virginia, that he was real and part of our holiday. Ray Waters is a minister, a motivational speaker and a regular columnist for Tallapoosa Publishers.
“If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there.” —Lewis Carroll
Today’s
Scripture
“Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” —Proverbs 31:9
alexcityoutlook.com
Daily Poll Weekend Question: Will you be attending a showing of ACT II’s “Rented Christmas” play this weekend?
No— 83%, Yes—17%
Tuesday Question: Have you completed your Christmas shopping yet this year? To participate in this daily poll, log on each day to www. alexcityoutlook.com and vote. Find out the vote totals in the next edition of The Outlook and see if your vote swayed the results.
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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.
Actually, academics and athletics do mix pretty well
S
ince Rutgers played Princeton in the first college football game back in 1869, college athletes have been splitting time between the classroom and contests on the field or at an indoor facility. And since the 1860s, such players in college, and even high school, have had to labor under the label “dumb jock.” This generally false insult is now being advanced by a starting football player and sportswriter for reasons that are unclear. Starting UCLA QB Josh Rosen gave an interview to Bleacher Report where he claimed that “football and school” don’t go together. They just don’t. Trying to do both is like trying to do two full-time jobs….Human beings don’t belong in school with our schedules. No one in their right mind should have a football player’s schedule and go to school.” When Bleacher Report’s reporter Matt Hayes pointed out players who graduated in three years, Rosen replied “I’m not knocking what those guys accomplished….but certain schools are easier than others.” The economics major went on to say “If I wanted to graduate in three years, I’d just get a sociology major,” showing that overconfidence that marred his sophomore year. Yes, being an athlete, any athlete (football or any other collegiate sport) is hard. Here’s a good lesson: Life is hard. College is a challenge. It should be. It’s preparing you for something bigger than high school, and is designed to help you in the NFL well beyond your NFL career, if you get there, and for however long it lasts (which is why “Wonderlic” tests are part of
JOHN TURES Columnist
the process). It is designed to be earned, not handed to you because you are a talented quarterback. At our college, we did a study of grades of athletes and non-athletes. The athletes slightly outperformed nonathletes. Whenever I have an athlete come to me, interested in majoring, I think it’s a good thing, just as much as a student government senator or member of the chess club. In fact, those who are part of any campus organization tend to be focused, and recognize the value of discipline and hard work. Well, at least most of them do. I wish I had a column just devoted to their successes in business, law, government, education, and even coaching. Yet Mr. Rosen has a major enabler in columnist Pat Forde, who calls Rosen’s words “the truth” several times in column, as if saying it enough will make it so. In fact Forde says that Rosen’s “stated truth” will anger administrators, fans and boosters “It will lead to a series of individual rebuttals from athletes who maxed out their college experience – exceptions to the rule – who competed at a high level while attaining a degree.” Yes, even when you are an athlete who succeeds in academia, you’re just one of the rare exceptions to the “dumb jock” rule. Mr. Rosen complains about how playing football and going to classes is like taking on two full-time jobs. Mr. Forde piles on. “The non-athletic universe
is full of college students who change majors – their interests change, or they realize they weren’t good at what they originally intended to do, or whatever. The same rationale obviously can apply to athletes, as well. But there also are time demands, often tied to scholarship money, that force the hands of many studentathletes.” Perhaps the UCLA QB and the sports columnist don’t know this, but many of my students also work a full-time job, in addition to taking their classes. I have students with kids, students who must care for ailing parents, and those who serve in the military, having to miss time with deployments overseas and get shot at. Some have the job, obligations to family and country, and classes to contend with! But they are different from these college athletic critics in one respect: few complain. They know how hard life is, and bite the bullet, and often get the job done. I noticed in the Bleacher Report article that scouts feel Rosen is talented, but often unfocused. I have some advice for him. Instead of lamenting how hard his life is with classes and sports, I would love to see him show some drive and intensity in the academia as well. If he does, I think he’ll convince scouts he can handle the NFL playbook, the harsh glare of the media in professional sports, and the leadership responsibilities that go with being a franchise QB. John A. Tures is a professor of political science at LaGrange College in LaGrange, Ga. He can be reached at jtures@lagrange. edu. His Twitter account is JohnTures2.
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The subscription rate is $136.00 per year in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and $177.99 outside the area. Periodicals paid at Alexander City, AL. Newspapers are available at 100 news racks in our area at 75 cents for The Outlook and 50 cents for The Record. We would love to deliver a paper to your door. Call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281, Ext. 204 or e-mail david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook. com.
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Tuesday, December 19, 2017
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The Outlook
Christmas is one of the biggest holidays of the year. It is celebrated every year on December 25 by people around the globe. Christmas holds many traditions. A tradition is a custom that is passed down through a family over time. For some families, celebrating the birth of Christ is the most important part of the holiday. Hanging wreaths and holly in homes and businesses, decorating Christmas trees, and hanging strands of bright Christmas lights outdoors are popular at this time of year. Baking cookies that are given as gifts or left for Santa Claus to eat are popular with children and adults. Cooking special foods that remind us of our families, singing Christmas Carols, and sending out cards are also traditions for many people. Christmas is known as the season of giving. Exchanging gifts with loved ones is perhaps the most popular tradition on Christmas. Children anxiously await the arrival of Santa Claus who leaves them gifts on Christmas Eve. This legend began several hundred years ago with Saint Nicholas, a man who was credited with performing many miracles. In Germany, he is known as Kris Kringle. In many other parts of the World, including the U.S., he is known as Santa Claus. His legend spread across Europe and then to the rest of the World because he gave children gifts and performed miracles on Christmas Eve! hristtmas! Merry Christmas! HRISTMAS
C C ROSSWORD
SANTA SKI MAZE
CANDY CANE COOKIES You will need: 1 roll of pre-made sugar cookie dough and red food coloring.
Step One: Divide the cookie dough in half. Color one half red by kneeding red food coloring evenly into dough. Step Two: Cut sections of dough (both colors) into equal sizes. Roll each section into a roll 3 inches long and around half an inch thick. Step Three: Wrap a red roll with a plain roll and shape into a cane shape on the cookie sheet. Repeat with all rolls. Step Four: Bake cookies according to the directions on the package of dough.
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Get all the facts before you buy, with a certified home inspector. Schedule an appointment today! KENNETH BLAIR, Certified Home Inspector 110 Calhoun Street, Suite 202 • Alexander City, AL 256-794-5551 www.lakemartininspections.com
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A-1 LOCK & KEY THOMAS AUTO PARTS SOCIAL SECURITY Bernie Atkinson (256) 329-2539 • Automotive Parts 3211 Pearson Chapel Road Alexander City, AL AL LIC # 7139
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AUTO PARTS
150 Green Street • Alexander City • 256.234.5023 157 E. South Street • Dadeville • 256.825.4155
FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law 135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL
8:00-4:00 Mon.-Fri • By Appt.(Except Emergencies) 256-234-4295 • After Hours 256-329-7100
Temple Medical Clinic, P.C. YOUR FAMIY CARE CENTER Medicine, Office Surgery, Pediatric, & Industrial James P. Temple, M.D. • Timothy J. Cordin, M.D. Vincent Law, M.D.
859 Airport Drive • Alexander City, AL
WHATLEY MONUMENT Company
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YOUR COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION 256-245-4776 www.myhscu.com
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Zaxby’s® gift cards are perfect for the chicken lovers in your life. Available in any amount from $5 to $100, So next time you are at Zaxby’s, ask about our gift cards.
Has your home been inspected lately?
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DADEVILLE HEALTHCARE CENTER Kim Russell, Administrator 385 E. LaFayette St., Dadeville 256.825.9244
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Weight Loss Center 256-409-1500
10973 County Road 34, Dadeville www.kelleyshvac.com • AL License #99129
3368 Hwy. 280 Suite 220 [ Alexander City, AL Connected to Russell Medical Center in the Professional Bldg. on the 2nd Floor in Suite 220
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Lake Martin Automotive & Truck Center
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2888 Dadeville Road•Alexander City, AL
256-825-8195 224 E. South Street Dadeville www.sandsdicounttire.com
Buy Here, Pay Here! Payments Start at $199 Mo. (256) 212-1300
Warry Sexton - Owner
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CommunityCalendar Need Insurance? Call me.
Today is December 19, 2017
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
The Outlook
Today’s Birthdays
James E. Rainwater, Sarah E. Baker, Sam Champion, Shane Fennell, Travis Thortonm Nick Vernon, Kathy Trapp, Sara Elizabeth Baker, Virginia Parsons, Clint Kelly, Gladys
Submit calendar items:
Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/. Woodruff Bence and Melvin Cole are celebrating their birthdays today.
Today’s Anniversaries
James and Louise Traywick celebrate their anniversary today.
–Since 1978–
BIG “B” BAR-B-QUE “We Cook The Best BETTER!”
Hickory Grilled Meat BBQ • STEAK CHICKEN • CATFISH
256.329.9996 Hwy. 22 West, Alexander City, AL
256.234.3481 KarenChannell.com
Coosa Kitchen & Bath Cabinetry
Submitted / The Outlook
The Alexander City Chamber of Commerce presented several businesses and organizations with awards following the Alexander City Christmas Parade. In the entertainment division, “The Studio” Arts & Education took first place, The Tapleys took second place and Barbara’s Studio of Dance took third place. In the non-profit division, Camp Fire won first place and the Coosa County Sheriff’s Office and Duncan United Methodist Church tied for second place. In the business division, Re/Max Around the Lake won first place, The Home Depot took second place and Griffin’s Outdoor Power Equipment Sales & Service took third place.
Wednesday, December 20
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Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy 2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
Come Visit Us! Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing
Need your business to
STAND OUT from the crowd?
Call us, we can help!
256.234.4281
• Alexander City Outlook • Dadeville Record • Wetumpka Herald • Eclectic Observer • Tallassee Tribune
dB
Lawn Care Darrell Brooks, Owner Cutting •Edging Weed Eating •Mulch Weed Control
256.267.0518
SENIOR CENTER LUNCHEON: The New Site Senior Citizen Center will hold its first monthly luncheon Wednesday for local seniors beginning at 11 a.m. Representatives from ARISE will be on hand to discuss the services offered by the program, followed by special music from New Site Police officer Justin Farr and bingo. Food will be provided and is sponsored by River Bank and Trust.
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
BLOOD DRIVE: The American 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, December 25
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 256234-7831.
Saturday, December 30
FAMILY GAME NIGHT: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have Family Game Night Bingo from 5:00 until 8:00 Saturday December 30. Begin with hot dogs, pizza, chips, and soft drinks.
Monday, January 8
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 Community Center at 4191 Highway 50. Dumpsters
will be available at no charge to residents.
Saturday, January 13
BOOK SALE: The Friednds of the Dadeville Public Library will host a book sale on the lower level of the Dadeville Library Saturday, Jan. 13 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fill a grocery bag for $5 or three bags for just $15.
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, 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.
Monday, January 29
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.
Monday, February 5
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.
Wednesday, March 29
VIETNAM VETERANS WELCOME HOME: The Auburn Veterans Project is celebrating and reflecting on the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans March 29 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Auburn High School Auditorium. Speakers will be Joe Galloway and Medal of Honor recipients Bennie Adkins and James Livingston Family is welcome to accompnay their veteran and ther will be a light reception afterwards. Visit auburnveteransproect. weebly.com/east-alabamavietnam-veterans-welcome-homecermony.html. Attendees are asked to RSVP in advance by either emailing Blake Busbin at wbbusbin@auburnschools.org or by calling Auburn High School at 334-887-2120.
April 9-10
THROW AWAY DAYS: The Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership and the Tallapoosa County Commission are holding Throw Away Days April 9-10. 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 Community Center at 4191 Highway 50. Dumpsters will be available at no charge to residents.
July 16-17
THROW AWAY DAYS: The Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership and the Tallapoosa County Commission are holding Throw Away Days July 16-17. 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 Community Center at 4191 Highway 50. Dumpsters will be available at no charge to residents.
October 15-16
THROW AWAY DAYS: The Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership and the Tallapoosa County Commission are holding Throw Away Days October 15-16. 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 Community Center at 4191 Highway 50. Dumpsters will be available at no charge to residents.
Designing & Selling Quality Cabinetry since 1991 • Granite • Quartz • Cultured Marble • Laminate Counter Tops
25 Years and still going, Selling quality kitchen & bath cabinetry at reasonable prices. 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!
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Tuesday, December 19, 2017
The Outlook
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The Outlook
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
The Outlook
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Council with the structures removed the repair would only cost about $50,000, according to information provided to the council. “It’s really a win-win for everyone involved,” Mayor Jim Nabors said. “The amount we will pay the state is almost nothing, like $100. There will be a cost to take down the buildings, but we think we may be able to get some community block grant funds to help with that. Once that is done we can make the repair at a fraction of what it would have cost had we been forced to bore or reroute with the buildings still there.” Another plus is that the Industrial Development Board has land adjacent and when the two parcels are combined, it could make it more attractive for a potential new business. Alexander City Community Development Director Al Jones explained that as a part of the agreement, a portion of the property that was the warehouse and old farmers’ market will be given to USAmeriBank by the city when the deal is complete.
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“They held a mortgage on the property and this will be a way for them to recoup some of their money on what was owed,” Jones said. Nabors thanked USAmeriBank for agreeing to the deal. The council also approved a $48,000 contract with Foresite Group, Inc. to begin implementation of the first two phases of the city’s compliance plan. The ADA prohibits unjustified discrimination based on disability, requires covered employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities and imposes accessibility requirements on public accommodations. Those requirements for public and employee accommodations are far-reaching, covering public restrooms, sidewalks, access to public buildings, parking, seating in public facilities (such as the Sportplex) and more – all the way down to the heights of hand dryers and countertops. In another item, the council approved the city’s participation in state sanctioned
weather preparedness sales tax holiday. Traditionally the city has joined in, but the county has not. The state requires the entity to make a decision on whether it will participate or not at least 30 days before the set time period. Monday’s action fulfills that requirement. This year’s weather preparedness sales tax holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, Feb. 23, 2018, and ends at midnight, Sunday, Feb. 25, 2018, This will be the seventh year that Alexander City shoppers could take advantage of the break on items that will help them be prepared in the event of severe weather. Under the program shoppers can to stock up tax-free on common supplies costing less than $60 that every home and business needs to prepare for a natural disaster or even a general emergency. Items like batteries, tarps, self-powered radios, weather radios, flashlights, plywood, anchoring systems and non-electric food storage coolers. Generators costing $1,000 or less also
can be purchased free of the state’s fourpercent sales tax during the three-day tax holiday. In other action: • The council approved a resolution to award Bid 18-01 for the Light Department to Siemens Industry Inc. in the amount of $161,406 for nine new vacuum breakers. The city is getting funding assistance from the Alabama Municipal Electric Association’s Smart Grid Initiative to pay for the project. The city had to amend the expense budget and the revenue budget as the city will pay for the breakers and then be reimbursed through the grant funds. • The council approved a quit-claim deed for a tiny corner of Lot 22 in Lake Hill Estates. The move will deed the property, which is just .001 acres to David Symonds and Jeffrey Higby and cleans up an issue that had existed with the tiny parcel. • The council also approved a alcohol license transfer from one owner to a new owner at Sakura Bistro on Highway 280.
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
‘Rented Christmas’ puts on exciting show Top left: Cynthia (Carlee Fuller), Jimmy (Luke Owens), Willie (Brody Mann), Lettie (Na’Imah Jones) and Jean (Sarah Childers) gather around admiring a present from Anne Weston (Betsy Iler) to John Dale (Steve Thomas), a photograph of Dale’s old home. Top right: Sarah Whitford (Candace Arrington), Benjamin Whitford (Donald Campbell) and John Dale talk about Dale’s plans for a rented Christmas celebration. Bottom left: Martha (Pam Tindal), Anne Weston and Briggs (Rodney Meadows) admire a photograph of John Dale’s old home. Bottom right: Luke Owens (Jimmy) and Brody Mann (Willie) play air guitar as they take a bow with Carlee Fuller (Cynthia), Na’Imah Jones (Lettie) and Sarah Childers (Jean) following Saturday night’s show.
LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com
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Tuesday, December 19, 2017
www.alexcityoutlook.com
LUKE ROBINSON Columnist
AL All-Stars shine despite big loss
DOUBLING UP
I
learn a lot every year that I go to call the annual Alabama-Mississippi All-Star game. I learn more about some of the South’s top prospects. I learn to appreciate the talent our state produces every year. And, every other year, I learn where the clean bathrooms are among the very few options for stops along I-59 to Hattiesburg. Anyhoo, Mississippi walloped Alabama last Saturday 42-7. That score is especially bad considering it was tied 7-7 at the half. (There’s a halftime speech that won’t be used again, I bet.) Obviously, there were not many positives for the Alabama side when there is a final score that lopsided. However, there are some players in this state that have shown the ability to be stars at the next level. The problem is, these guys I am going to tell you about will most likely not be performing at ’Bama or Auburn; they will be headed out of their grasps or even out of our boarders. First and foremost, there is Jack West from Saraland. West has been a phenom since about the eighth grade and Benjamin Russell fans may remember him from when his squad came to Alex City three years ago (only to lose a first-round playoff game). He and the Spartans avenged that loss with a first-round victory against the Wildcats this year. West is headed, well, west…. To Stanford where he certainly fits the typical Cardinal quarterback stereotype — tough, accurate and oozing pro potential. West grew up an Alabama fan, but I am thinking this move is great for him. Despite the Alabama AllStars looking rather ordinary Saturday, West did have a few flashes that make me think he will eventually be a star at Stanford. Kavosiey Smoke is another name to remember. Actually, how could you forget it? It’s the greatest name in the history of high school football! Smoke provided team Alabama with its lone big highlight on a long run in the first quarter and I have seen enough from him on tape to know he is a rugged running back. He told me is he hoping for an offer from Alabama, but with the Tide’s numbers getting tight it looks like Smoke may wind up at South Carolina or another program like that. Where ever he goes, he will be hard to tackle. Of all of the “sleeper” prospects on the roster last week, Kenneth Robertson of Thompson may have been the sleepiest. I am talking watching golf on a rainy Sunday after a spiked egg nog sleepy. Well, Robertson shook me awake Saturday and I plan to “stay woke” when it comes to his college career at Troy. The defensive effort from the Alabama squad was not pretty, but Robertson was able to shine. The few tackles for loss the team had were from Robertson and he has the frame to be a terror in college. There were others that caught my eye, but these three truly stood out. In a few years when they are being drafted into the NFL, feel free to congratulate me for calling it early. Luke Robinson is a regular columnist and contributor to Lake Martin Living and BMetro.
Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook
Reeltown’s Zantjuan Knight, bottom, works against Dadeville’s Ladarious Barber during a 145-pound match.
Reeltown takes down Dadeville, 48-24 By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
Although the final score seemed lopsided, Dadeville and Reeltown’s wrestling teams actually split six matches on the mat Monday afternoon. But because of a slew of forfeits, the Tigers suffered a 48-24 defeat at the hands of the first-year program. “We all know the deal,” Dadeville coach Fred Ford said. “We actually came close with Beulah, and it was tied 30-30, but that was as close as we’ve gotten it. We’re trying to compete and actually get a win. That’s our goal is to try to get a team victory, but it’s going to take all eight of them. “The attitude about everything has been real pleasant, though. They continue to grind and see some opportunities at the individual level to win some matches, and we’re competing well against great programs.” Dadeville usually has just eight wrestlers and was missing one Monday, handing Reeltown five forfeit victories. On the mat, the match was very evenkeeled. Reeltown’s Tanner Hill earned the first win of the day, flattening Troy Cruz at 106 in just 1:44. “Tanner is doing great for us,” Reeltown coach Drew MacKay said. “He’s 7-1 now and he’s only an eighth grader wrestling varsity. Only one of his wins on his record is actually a forfeit, and his loss is against Moody. They have a really great team, and his only loss was to a kid that looked really impressive.” Other victors for Reeltown were Zantjuan Knight at 145 and Caleb Gant at 285. Trailing 5-3 after the first period, Knight quickly got a takedown in the second period and turned Dadeville’s Ladarious Barber for a pin in 2:23. At heavyweight, Gant had the fastest pin of the night, claiming a win over Luke Keel in a mere 24 seconds. “Caleb Gant has a really good record as well,” MacKay said. “He’s doing very well for us. He’s also only a ninth grader, so I’m
Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook
Dadeville’s RJ Ford, top, battles Carson Barber of Reeltown on Monday.
excited to see where the kids can go next year and the future years going forward. I’m already happy with how we’ve done, though.” Dadeville also picked up three pins. The first was RJ Ford at 138 pounds. Ford got a first-period takedown only to have Carson Baker escape. But in the second period, it started out the same with a Ford takedown, but this time, he turned it into a 3:48 pin. “We want RJ to get as much mat time as possible, and we were able to accomplish that today,” coach Ford said. “Ab (Abernathy) is another senior who’s been with us since we started, so he has a lot of experience and a lot of mat time. We don’t expect any less out of him.” Abernathy lived up to expectations with a 1:52 pin at 220 after earning a quick takedown
and three back points, then wearing Jackson Hornsby down for the fall. At 152 pounds, Ladarrius Moore earned Dadeville’s fastest pin, claiming a win over Brody Newman in 1:23. “Ladarrius is real green, but he’s a junior and he’s strong as an ox,” Ford said. “Once he gets everything clicking and it becomes second nature, I expect him to be really competitive, not just around here but on the state level as well.” Reeltown’s 170-pounder Daniel Spain and Dadeville’s 182-pounder Dillan Ray also competed in a thrilling exhibition match. Spain took a quick shot and looked like he would flatten Ray. After giving up three back points, Ray turned a reversal and earned a pin of his own in 1:22.
Wildcats’ win streak ends at Clint McCall Duals STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
After picking up another two victories at the Clint McCall Duals in Oxford, Benjamin Russell’s wrestling team saw its nine-match win streak come to an end against the host team. BRHS (17-7) defeated Clay Chalkville, 47-27, and Darlington (Georgia) 43-32, but was then narrowly ousted by Oxford, 36-33. Troup (Georgia) also proved too powerful, and the Wildcats suffered a 60-24 loss to end the day. Despite the split, there were several wrestlers with strong performances. Saxon Coker and Jy Harvey went 3-1 at 145 and 160 pounds. Harvey collected all three of his wins via fall. His quickest of the day came in 1:14 against Darlington. Coker had two firstperiod pins, including one in just 21 seconds against Clay Chalkville, and a 7-1 decision versus Oxford. At 106, Bobby Charsha actually went undefeated on the day, but three of his wins were via forfeit. The other was a 3:42 pin against
Oxford. Several Wildcats went 2-2. At 132, Robert Graham had a 22-6 tech fall in 4:11 and a 12-8 decision. Ryan Spradley earned a 3-0 decision and a 2:00 pin at 138 pounds, and Michael Parker had a quick 1:09 pin and a 5-2 decision at 152. At 170, Hezekiah Hunter earned a 7-5 decision and a 1:56 pin, and Damien Lawry collected an 11-6 decision and a 0:55 pin. Isaiah Holloway also went 2-2, but one of his wins was via forfeit. He also had a 2:34 pin against Oxford. Kyle Mattox and Conner Burk picked up both of their wins by forfeit. Earning one win apiece for BRHS was Gregory Newman (0:59 pin versus Darlington at 126) and Dimitri Johnson (10-2 major decision versus Darlington at 220).
47-36, to move to 2-3 on the season. Ashlynn Thomas led the way with 14 points, while Mikiya Jones had nine and Ariyana Stoneback and Hailey Cowart split 12 points evenly. On the boards, Stoneback grabbed eight off the glass, and Jones, Thomas and Stoneback each had four steals. Diyanna Newton, Taniya Haynes and Marsheka Shaw all contributed three steals apiece. For Dadeville (1-4), Quanesha Presley put up her third straight double-double with 23 points and 13 rebounds. Dadeville’s boys team proved it was just as strong in non-area play, picking up a 55-46 victory over the Rebels. The Tigers are now 5-0, while Reeltown’s boys slipped to 2-3.
Dadeville splits with Reeltown
Horseshoe Bend’s girls basketball team is now on a threegame skid after falling 43-42 to Wadley on Friday night. The Generals are 2-5 on the season. The boys team also defeated Wadley, moving to 7-3.
Generals narrowly fall
With a victory over Dadeville on Friday night, Reeltown’s girls basketball team has already matched its win total from a season ago. The Rebels defeated Dadeville,
LOCAL SPORTS CALENDAR Tuesday, Dec. 19 High school boys basketball Smiths Station at Benjamin Russell, 7 p.m. Sylacauga at Central Coosa, 7 p.m. High school girls basketball Smiths Station at Benjamin Russell, 5:30 p.m. Sylacauga at Central Coosa, 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 20 High school girls basketball Central Coosa in Lady Tiger Christmas Tournament at Talladega Central, TBA High school wrestling Benjamin Russell at Thompson duals tournament, 9 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 21 Reeltown Holiday Hoops Tournament Boys: Holtville vs. Pike Road, noon Girls: Reeltown vs. BTW, 2 p.m. Girls: Wadley vs. Pike Road, 4 p.m. Boys: Reeltown vs. Pike Road, 6 p.m. High school wrestling Russell County, Wetumpka at Benjamin Russell, 5:30 p.m. Junior high wrestling Buzzbee Duals tournament at Benjamin Russell, 10 a.m.