INSIDE, PAGE 2: YOUNG TO ADDRESS AUBURN’S MLK BREAKFAST
THURSDAY
THE CALENDAR, PAGE 6 Area children spread holiday cheer
December 21, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 252 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢
SIGN OF THE TIMES: By MITCH SNEED Editor
The special election for the U.S. Senate and a property tax vote here in Tallapoosa County are over and done, but another round of elections will be coming up next year. But while qualifying for those races doesn’t officially begin until early next year, some candidates are getting the jump and putting political signs out. But in Alexander
New Site Senior Center holds first luncheon
SPORTS, PAGE 10 Reeltown to host area’s first holiday tournament
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892
Early bird candidates reminded of political signage guidelines
City, an ordinance has very specific guidelines about where the signs can be placed and how soon they are allowed to be put up at all. Article 4, Section 7.4 of the city code stipulates, “No political signs shall be allowed within or upon a public right of way.” The ordinance also states that no political signs may be placed in the city until 90 days before an election. Other specifications detail when See SIGNS • Page 3
Alexander City has an ordinance governing the display of political signs within the city limits, including signs like this one at the corner of Washington Street and North Central Avenue. Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Chamber seeks nominations for annual awards
GETTING IN THE GIVING SPIRIT
By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
A crowd of around 20 senior citizens from the New Site area met up at the Senior Activity Center Wednesday morning for the first installment of the monthly senior luncheon series. Along with Director Jan Kennedy and the seniors, several special guests were in attendance as well, including New Site Mayor Phil Blasingame, Councilman Michael East, New Site Police officer Justin Farr and representatives from River Bank and Trust. Kennedy took a moment at the beginning to welcome those in attendance to the first monthly luncheon and offering a reminder of the events the center holds every Tuesday and Thursday. “If you haven’t been here on Tuesdays and Thursdays, join us,” she said. “You’ll have a lot of laughs. “There are times when I leave the room to go to the restroom or something like that, I just stand out in the hallway and listen, they’re just so full of laughter and enjoyment,” she added after the luncheon. Blasingame then offered up a few comments about the senior center as a whole,
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Landon-Nihal Shah, 3, hands out gifts at his parent’s store, Koons III, Wednesday afternoon.
Family tradition passed down generations at Koons III under 15 years old in Koons III. “My family from India is a big inspiration for this,” Harsh said. “They manage old age A family tradition has come from around the houses and handicap schools. They are always doing something for charity, so we started to world to a store on Jefferson Street. do it here a little bit.” Inspired by his family, Harsh Shah and his For Alicia, the new tradition pays homage to wife Alicia along with their 3-year-old son See KOONS • Page 3 Landon-Nihal were giving gifts to any child By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
See LUNCHEON • Page 5
Do you know someone in business locally that exemplifies what a local business is all about? Here’s a chance to have those folks recognized. Nominations are currently being taken for two prestigious awards to be presented at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2018. These awards are designed to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to Alexander City. The recipient of the Business Person of the Year Award is based upon that individual’s outstanding achievement, leadership, loyalty and dedication to his/her profession, and to the business community of Alexander City. Nominees must be a member of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. They must also have been in business in Alexander City for a minimum of five years. Past winners of this award include Kenneth Boone, Randy Lee Jr., Ann Rye and Mark Spencer. Nominations should be accompanied by a detailed summary and the address and phone number of the nominee. The Business Person of the Year Award is presented by Nowlin and Associates’ Lee Williams. The “Community Spirit” Award is presented to an individual who See CHAMBER • Page 3
Dadeville students have trip of a lifetime By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
Some Dadeville High School students have just returned from an experience of a lifetime – visiting New York City at Christmas. But it was not just a vacation. It was a trip to help enlighten and provide motivation for members of the school’s chorale program. “It will encourage them to aspire for more,” Dadeville High School Chorale Director
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Ashley Gresko said Wednesday just moments after returning. “It raises the expectation of performance.” More than 20 students, a mixture of chorale, drama and band students, made the trip. They experienced what many only dream of and see on television – “Aladdin” on Broadway, the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular, backstage tours of the “Aladdin” set and Radio City and a workshop learning one of the See TRIP • Page 3
Submitted / The Outlook
More than 20 Dadeville High School students enjoyed traveling to New York City, visiting Broadway, Radio City Music Hall, the Statue of Liberty and more.
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Directory Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com Santana Wood Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 santana.wood@alexcityoutlook.com
Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com
Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Retail Sales Manager, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com 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 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
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Information (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) The Outlook is published five times a week, Tuesday through Saturday mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.
Thursday, December 21, 2017
The Outlook
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, Kenneth Boone Photography and a commercial web printing press. © 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
DEAR ABBY: My husband’s nephew, “Jacob,” is 25 and always hanging around our house. He has had a hard time over the last four years. First, his mom committed suicide. Two years later his dad died in his sleep. My husband and I told Jacob we would be there when he needed advice about things. Well, he recently broke up with his longtime girlfriend, and he’s here at my house every day -- even days he’s not working. He calls every afternoon to see what I’m cooking and expects to eat here every night. He also expects me to drop what I’m doing to go and clean his house and wash his clothes. I’m disabled, so it’s a struggle just to feed my husband and myself. He also sleeps here on the weekends if he doesn’t work. My husband and I no longer have any alone time because he’s always here.
DEAR ABBY Advice
I have tried to tell Jacob nicely that he needs his own life, but the message isn’t getting through. I know he has issues with being alone. He has never learned to be by himself. My husband is starting to get angry about the situation and wants me to “handle” it, but my words are not working. If my husband decides to say something, it will end up in a heated argument. How can I get through to this kid without hurting him? I do love him and try to treat him like one of my own kids. -- UPSET AUNT DEAR AUNT: Talk to Jacob again. This time do it in plain
and I’m embarrassed for him because I believe it’s bad manners to chew gum in that manner. I don’t know how to approach him. Please advise as to how I can help him. -EMBARRASSED FOR HIM IN CALIFORNIA DEAR EMBARRASSED: Your husband chews the way he is because he is trying to ease the pangs of withdrawal from his nicotine addiction. Because what he’s doing is unsightly, suggest he discuss it with his doctor to see if there are other options such as a nicotine patch to help him over the hump. And be sure to tell him how proud you are of his determination to quit.
English. Your nephew’s dependence on you has persisted for too long, and for everyone’s sake it needs to stop. If you haven’t suggested grief counseling for him, you should. Explain that you love him, but you and your husband need time to be alone together. Point out that if he’s unable to do his own housecleaning and laundry, he should hire someone. Do not feel guilty for speaking up. You have done more than enough for Jacob over the last few years, and for him to expect you to cook for him every night and weekend is over the top. DEAR ABBY: My husband quit chewing tobacco, but now he chews gum constantly, three pieces at a time. If he’s not asleep or eating, his jaw is moving. His chews it aggressively, rolls it around in his mouth while talking, so that it looks bad and is irritating. He works with the public,
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.
Andrew Young to address Auburn University’s MLK Jr. breakfast sought election as the mayor of Atlanta. He won and was re-elected in 1985. During his tenure as mayor, Young brought Civil rights activist Andrew jobs and $70 billion in private Young, former confidant to Dr. investments to the city. He was Martin Luther King Jr., will be also instrumental in bringing the the keynote speaker for Auburn Centennial Olympic Games to University’s annual Dr. Martin Atlanta in 1996. Luther King Jr. Scholarship He has since served on many Breakfast. The event is set for organizations and, in 2003, Jan. 15 from 7:30-9:30 a.m. at established the Andrew J. Young The Hotel at Auburn University Foundation. The foundation and Dixon Conference Center. Young was elected to Congress embodies Young’s philosophy of creative nonviolence and in 1972 to represent Georgia’s establishes a model and legacy 5th district, becoming the first of effective servant leadership African American elected from for current and future leaders in the South since Reconstruction. Atlanta, America and the world. He was re-elected in 1974 Young participates in frequent and 1976. In 1977, Young speaking engagements. became the first African He’s been the recipient of American to be appointed numerous awards, including the United States ambassador to Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United Nations. Appointed the NAACP’s Springarn Medal, by President Jimmy Carter, he the Olympic Order and France’s held the position until August Legion d’honneur, the nation’s 1979. Two years later, Young greatest honor, as well as more STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
than 100 honorary degrees. Young was recognized in 2011 for his contributions to American life and history with a Lifetime Emmy Award and the Young placement of his portrait on permanent exhibit of the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery. The scholarship breakfast commemorates the life and work of King and his ideals for peace and unity. Sponsored by the Office of Inclusion and Diversity, the Office of University Outreach and the East Alabama chapter of the National Forum for Black Administrators, the event is open to the public. Tickets for the event can be purchased online at https://aub.ie/2018OIDMLK.
How to Submit Obituaries Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by e-mail at obits@ alexcityoutlook.com For more information, call (256) 234-4281.
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Fun and games As children were waiting on the bike giveaway by the Masons Gibraltar Lodge Tuesday night, they took to the floor for a little line dancing. The lodge was able to give nearly 100 kids a bike for Christmas at the event which was held at the Cooper Recreation Center.
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The Outlook
Koons
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her past helping return the favor given to her and her family. “I grew up on Salvation Army,” Alicia said. “People gave us toys growing up. This is giving back.” The Shah’s started their giving when they started running the store three years ago. “The first year we gave to a church,” Alicia said. “The second one we gave out here.” The Shah’s learned from the experience last year at the store. “Last year we passed out 150 toys,” Alicia said. “We ran out last year. So I got more this year. I can’t have a kid not get a present.” The plans have been in the works for weeks from purchasing the gifts to wrapping them. “It took maybe a week or week and half to wrap them,” Alicia said. “I would get off from work and wrap. Maybe three or four at a time.” The Christmas gifts are not the only things the Shah’s do for the community. “We do Christmas and we do start of school with 50 to 60 backpacks with school suppolies.” Harsh said. “We gave bikes to the bike give away. Anything we can do for the community is great.” The community helps the Shahs with the giving by helping with fun fundraisers for the back to school backpacks. “I had people lining up to pie him in the face,” Alicia said. Landon has already taken up the family tradition. Wednesday, he was the one handing gifts to other children. Sharing is something the couple has been teaching him. “He already knows to share,” Harsh said. “When he gets something he starts to let others use it. When he gets candy, he eats some and shares the rest.”
Landon-Nihal Shah, 3, of Alexander City gives away gifts to children as his parents Alicia and Harsh Shah watch at Koons III Wednesday afternoon. The Shah family has been giving back to the community since taking over at Koons III.
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Trip
continued from page 1
main dance numbers from Aladdin with a cast member Gresko explained the fledging chorale and drama programs that started just a couple years benefited from the trip. “When we started, students said we are doing just like Broadway,” Gresko said. She explained they now know a lot more goes into producing a show. Despite being new, some students are showing a lot of interests. “We have some students that have expressed an interest in making this a career,” Gresko said. “Hopefully this trip opened their minds to what they can do.” In addition to learning more about theatre and choir the students got to experience New York City. “Some of the students have never really travelled,” Gresko said. “Many had not been north of Tennessee. We rolled into New York Saturday afternoon to fresh snow. The students enjoyed walking through Central Park throwing snow balls at each other.” Students also had the chance to see the 9-11 Memorial, Times Square and the city from the Hudson River. Gresko said the students were in “shock and awe” and thought the trip was “awesome” and “Loved it.” The students were delayed a little on the bus trip back Tuesday evening. “Our bus driver took us to Carlos’ Bake Shop,” Gresko said. “The food was great. It was worth getting back an hour late.” Gresko hopes other students will take an interest in experiencing New York City and the shows it has to offer. “I think this will be a reoccurring trip,” Gresko said. “We have some younger students that did not go that might want to when they get a little Submitted / The Outlook older. I think we will try to do it once every two to three years.” More than 20 Dadeville students enjoyed visiting New York City, seeing all the sights the city has to offer and living the New York lifestyle for a few days.
Chamber embodies the principles of community leadership, selflessness, integrity, and promotes the good of the community through his/her profession and/or volunteer activities Nominees must be a resident of the Alexander City/Lake Martin area.
continued from page 1
Nominations for either award may be Nominations should be accompanied accompanied by letters of support from by a detailed essay, address and phone other individuals. number of the nominee. The Community Spirit Award is Past winners of the award include presented by Russell Medical. people like Mabry Cook, John Thompson, Ellen Martin, Dr. John James, Nominations should be mailed to: Steve Robinson and Diane Lemmond. Alexander City Chamber of
Signs signs may be placed and how many signs can appear in a certain location. The code allows for one sign per candidate per lot in residential districts and two signs per candidate per lot in other districts. In addition, signs are also allowed on moving vehicles, like in the back of pick-up trucks or on trailers; if those vehicles are left on the right of way, however, they can be removed as abandoned vehicles after three days. According to the city regulations, only one political sign per candidate is
Commerce PO Box 926 Alexander City, AL 35011 Or Emailed to Ed Collari at ed.collari@alexandercitychamber.com. Nominations must be received by Jan. 12, 2018.
continued from page 1
allowed on most residential property. For commercial property, two political signs per candidate are allowed. The signs can be no larger than 4 square feet. Political signs or any other type of sign cannot be mounted to city utility poles, light posts, buildings or trees within the city limits. Technically, violators of the city ordinance can be cited and fined. Officials say they would hope that it doesn’t come to that and candidates would
respect the rules. Alexander City Clerk Amanda Thomas said that the city does provide candidates for city office with a list of the rules with their qualifying packet. Thomas said she would be glad to provide the guidelines to other candidates who would like to see them. The Outlook has received calls from residents complaining about signs placed without their permission on their property and that some candidates have placed stickers, much like bumper stick-
ers on road signs like stop signs and yield signs. Defacing or damaging a traffic control sign in any way could be considered criminal mischief, according to state code. The city cannot do anything about signs along state maintained highways, such as U.S. 280, Alabama 63 or Alabama 22. A quick check with county officials show that there are no guidelines on the books about signage, but right of way rules for state highway still do apply.
MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213
editor@alexcityoutlook.com
EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 4
Thursday, December 21, 2017
Kneel for anything, stand for nothing Today’sQuote
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Newspapers, not I Facebook, have the community at heart
F
rom time to time, people take issue with local newspapers – including the Outlook. Some object to the way we handle a story or say we sensationalize because we cover a story that deals with a friend or loved one. Some ask why we have to report the names of those who are arrested or why can’t we cover every little league baseball game that is played. The truth is that we walk a fine line and no decision that we make is done so without thought and consideration. Do we make mistakes? Yes we do and honestly we make more than we would like. Recently a caller was outraged that we reported the arrest of a 19-year-old man for breaking the law. “All you do is report gossip and sensationalize everything,” the caller said. “If something good happened, you wouldn’t write about that.” In the same paper that had the published the article that the caller referred to we had a story about student achievement and news of good work being done by city employees, so we pointed that out. That’s not what the caller what wanted to hear. “Well I’m going to cancel my subscription and get my news from Facebook and the Internet,” she said. We hate that she made that decision. We love our readers and we need them. But think about the kind of news that you get from Facebook. Consider these thoughts by Dave Degenstien, an editor and publisher at the Last Mountain Times in Canada: • While Facebook may get information to a close circle of friends and a network of personal contacts, it doesn’t get that information to about 8,000 people in the Lake Martin area each day (based on the local paper being read each week by 2.3 people per household). • Facebook doesn’t pay rent, or property and education taxes in the local area. • Facebook doesn’t buy at the local grocery and hardware stores. • Facebook doesn’t buy gas at the local gas stations. • Facebook doesn’t have children or grandchildren attending local schools. • Facebook isn’t the local post office’s biggest volume customer, week after week after week. • Facebook doesn’t attend or report on local events. • Facebook doesn’t report on local municipal government meetings and activities. • As a matter of fact, Facebook doesn’t contribute anything to the local economy – anywhere. On the other hand, local community newspapers and their owners and employees do all of the above, and more. Thanks for continuing to invite us into your homes and allowing us to be your source for local news.
Know Your
Officials
Jim Nabors is mayor of Alexander City. His phone number at city hall is 256-329-6730 and his home number is 256329-1320 His address at city hall is 4 Court Square; Alexander City, AL, 35010. His home address is 1695 Magnolia Street Alexander City, AL, 35010.
District 3. His phone number is 256-4962450. His address is 549 Sleepy Hollow Drive, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Parks and Recreation committee.
Scott Hardy
“But the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.’” —Luke 1:30
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Thursday Question: Are you attending a Christmas gathering this weekend? 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.
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Letter to the Editor
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Dear Editor,
Scott Hardy represents
Scripture
What’s your
vote Dec. 12 We learned that every vote does matter? Which ever party you endorse please vote and let your voice be hear. Only our vote can make a change.
Vote and be heard! I am glad we made a change in this State and Nation. Daniel Story Dadeville
READER: I’m thinking of running for office
Buffy Colvin
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Jim Nabors
Bobby Tapley
“We must especially beware of that small group of selfish men who would clip the wings of the American Eagle in order to feather their own nests.” —Franklin D. Roosevelt
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.
I want to say thanks to all of the people of Tallapoosa County and the State of Alabama who turned out to
Buffy Colvin represents District 2. Her phone number is 256-750-0663. Her address is 786 I Street, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Buildings and Property committee.
a while. Blacks commit homicide at a rate eight times higher than whites and Hispanics combined. Blacks are 13 percent of the population RON HART but commit 52 percent of all Columnist murders. This puts them into more tense contact with police. Cuba. With all the awards the That’s the issue about which left has given him, Kaepernick Kaepernick and NFL players feels smart now and thinks he should speak out. If you have knows history and literature a protest, be able to back it up well enough to lecture us. factually. I agree that way too Maybe so; he has collected the many Americans are in jail for complete works of William non-violent crimes, and unfair Shatner in his mahogany crack sentences. NFL players library. should focus on that. Both “Hands Up, Don’t Kaepernick’s buddies from Shoot” and Black Lives Black Lives Matter even had Matter are founded on a lie. the audacity to protest my man Michael Brown didn’t have Elvis’ birthday at Graceland. his hands up in Ferguson. And Elvis sang gospel and blues, Kaepernick’s anti-cop (prowore bling, and bought Black Lives Matter) assertions Cadillacs and homes for his are simply not true. I get that mom. His daughter married there is tension and distrust Michael Jackson. Good Lord, between cops and Africanpeople, study history and leave Americans. NFL players The King out of this. Has any could really help with this white man met you halfway problem. There is also mistrust more than Elvis? by white males in the Trump The media love the NFL’s administration about the allfaux protests but ridicule the Democrat donor Mueller Christian values of Tim Tebow. investigative FBI team. Tebow played pro baseball In her book “The War after the NFL — not bad for on Cops: How the New a guy who has never gotten to Attack on Law and Order third base. Makes Everyone Less Safe,” Sports are important to Stanford’s Heather MacDonald Americans. We take ‘roughing cites simple Obama the quarterback’ rules more Administration FBI crime stats seriously than we do the that disprove the lie on which NSA deep state violating our Black Lives Matter is based. Fourth Amendment rights. First, black and Hispanic Psychologists say that football cops are far more likely – 3.3 placates man’s innate lust for times – than white cops to war. But, just to make sure shoot unarmed black suspects. they are on the safe side, While they are only 6 percent politicians keep us in a lot of of the population, black males wars. make up 40 percent of all cop killers. Thus, McDonald A syndicated op-ed determines that a Police humorist, award-winning Officer is 18.5 times more author and TV/radio likely to be killed by a black commentator, you can reach male than an unarmed black him at Ron@RonaldHart.com male is likely to be killed by a or Twitter @RonaldHart. cop. Social justice on that for
How to
Dear Editor,
Bobby Tapley represents District 1. His phone number is 256392-0344. His address is 1821 LaVista Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Public Safety committee.
n a Slate interview, the San Francisco 49ers’ Eric Reid said he’s been told the NFL is planning to allow owners to shift money pledged to other charitable campaigns like breast cancer and Salute the Troops to the players’ sevenyear, $89 million program to fund social justice causes. It’s a cowardly attempt by NFL owners to shut up ungrateful players. Kneeling by NFL players during our National Anthem, for reasons they still cannot articulate, continues. The result? NFL ratings are down and so is attendance. Sunday night’s NFL game attendance was down another 11% from the previous week. Mostly Southerners and conservatives are upset about this disrespectful kneeling during our National Anthem. We Southern fans only feels it’s appropriate to kneel at a football game when our bourbon flasks fall out of our socks. Kaepernick has gotten what he wanted out of starting this protest: dubious leftist-awards for himself. In speeches with more “I’s” than an Obama or Trump speech about someone else, he’s shown that he is shallow. Of course it’s every American’s right to speak freely, and mine to make fun of him or her when it’s stupid. Kaepernick’s body is tattooed all the way up to his neck, so you just know the guy makes good decisions. But let’s hear him out as he lectures us on the oppressive conditions in America while wearing a T-shirt honoring Fidel Castro. Apparently, the University of Nevada-Reno, home of the Fighting Blackjack Dealers, didn’t teach Kaepernick history well. Castro killed up to 33,000 people during his brutal communist reign of
I’m thinking of running for public office. I don’t have deep roots here. I’ve lived in Alex City less than 10 years. I was raised part of my life in Sweden – the most liberal of all countries. I’m a liberal, don’t judge me. That’s the way I was raised. A couple things about Alabamians: 1. No matter how good socialist countries treat their citizens, Alabamians resent being told this by an outsider. 2. If you’re thinking of running for political office, don’t say anything about the way they practice religion. Having said this, transparency is important. So before I throw my hat in the ring, I’m letting everyone know, I think for the
most part going to church is a big waste of time. Those that know me and my possible political ambitions have very politely said, “Are *&%%#@ing nuts? Leave religion alone.” All kidding aside, why do people say that? In politics sometimes the only thing interesting is kidding. OK, all kidding aside, I’m a poor speller, but not a bad reader. I can read the Bible myself and draw my own conclusions. Just one example, most of the Christian world does not have the death penalty. We do. This does not mean we are wrong and the rest of the world is right. However it is an illustration how the word of the Bible is subject to interpretation. The TV mega churches are phone. The smaller the church is, the more honest they seem to be.
Fact is I’ve attended services in some churches that were not a waste of time. I was chatting with a local business woman about how I felt about skipping church. Without mentioning names, suffice to say this was a welleducated, respected member of the community. She gave me pushback about not consistently attending church. As she spoke of her love for Jesus, really I don’t remember the exact words she used, it was obvious to me. This brought her an inner peace and purpose. I was jealous. I don’t think she realized it and it didn’t hit me till later. She had taken me to church. It wasn’t that bad. Art Walker Alexander City
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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Thursday, December 21, 2017
Luncheon including his belief that this was a valuable outlet for senior citizens in the community. “The council and I all agreed this was good, that the need for this was here,” he said. “We want to provide this service for you. This is a good start and we want to see it continue to grow.” “We hope y’all enjoy this. It’s a work in progress,” East added. Blasingame then said he was going to take his mayor hat off and put on his banker hat, giving the seniors information about some of the services offered at River Bank and Trust. “We pride ourselves on knowing our customers,” he said. “Any kind of account you are interested in, we offer that. All we ask is an opportunity to earn your business.” Blasingame also said the bank was proud to have sponsored Wednesday’s meal, while also saying the bank had big plans for 2018, so bank employees would be out and about in the community. After these comments from Blasingame, the seniors formed a line and scooped up helpings of a wonderfully prepared luncheon catered by the Generals Café. While the seniors enjoyed their meal of green beans, dressing, squash and sweet potato casseroles, pecan pie and banana pudding, Farr pulled out his guitar and played a few Christmas songs. Following some additional comments from Blasingame about what River Bank and Trust could offer the seniors, Farr led the crowd in singing a handful of Christmas carols, including “Silent Night” and “Jingle Bells.” Some of the seniors in attendance Wednesday were very happy to express their opinions about the senior center and the fun activities they were able to take part in on a regular basis. “I’m glad they got this started. They picked a good person to run this,” former New Site basketball coach Bryan Yates said. “I’m so thankful they started this program,” New Site resident Avis Cleckler said. “I had been in a state of depression for about a year, so when I saw the sign for the Open House Sunday, I knew this was a godsend. I thank God for Jan and everyone that has had a part in this.” Cleckler added she always feels better after the morning stretching exercises on Tuesday mornings, and loves recapturing her childhood by sitting down to play Uno with some of the other seniors in attendance. “This brought me out of my shell,” she said. Wednesday’s special luncheon concluded with several fun rounds of bingo, during which the seniors had the chance to win some special prizes. The seniors were selfless during bingo, with several seniors who had already won prizes sharing their card after making subsequent bingos with those who had yet to win. After the bingo cards were put away, some of the seniors spent some time talking with their friends, while Kennedy reminded them there was still plenty of food if they were still hungry or wanted to take some home with them. Overall, the atmosphere in the senior center was one of happiness and excitement for the special luncheon and the various offerings provided by Kennedy and the New Site Senior Activity Center. “It will be like this every month,” Kennedy said. “We will have a guest speaker and try to have some entertainment too. We also have sponsors lined up to help with the meals next year.”
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Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Top, Senior citizens from the New Site area spend some time socializing as Wednesday’s first monthly luncheon at the local senior center draws to a close. Second row left, New Site police officer Justin Farr plays guitar while senior center director Jan Kennedy leads the group in singing Christmas songs during the senior luncheon. Second row right, Kennedy spins a cage full of bingo balls while prizes for the seniors fill up much of the rest of the table. Middle left, also representing River Bank and Trust, New Site Mayor Phil Blasingame welcomes the crowd of senior citizens to the luncheon. Middle right, a line of senior citizens make their way down the buffet line. River Bank and Trust sponsored the meal, which was provided by Generals Cafe. Above, New Site Town Councilman Michael East mingles with some of the seniors during the luncheon.
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Today is December 21, 2017 Today’s Events
SHOP LOCAL LATE: MainStreet Alexander City and downtown Alexander City businesses are host-
Thursday, December 21, 2017
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ing 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
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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/. Thursday, Dec. 21 at Cloud Nine.
Today’s Birthdays
Alethea Nieves, John Sawyer Lawhorn, Robert Lee Hunt, Blake Bailey, Maxine Baker, Andrew Salinas, Delores Carlisle, Betty Leonard and Janice Thomas are celebrating their birthdays today.
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This group of local children spent Wednesday going from business to business in the city spreading good cheer and delivering Christmas cards. Pictured from left are Lilly Saxon, James Watkins, Nicholas Watkins, Steven Watkins and Kenneth Saxon.
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Come Visit Us! Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing
Friday, December 22
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, 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 256-2347831.
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.
Wednesday, Janurary 3
MONTHLY LUNCHEON: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have their Monthly Luncheon on Wednesday Jan 3 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Please bring a covered dish and a small donation.
Monday, Janurary 8
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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.
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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 Hall 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 Friends of the Dadeville Public Library will host a book sale on the lower level of the Darrell Brooks, Owner 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. Cutting •Edging MLK PRAYER BREAKFAST: The Weed Eating •Mulch annual Martin Luther King Jr. Prayer Weed Control breakfast will be Saturday, Jan. 13 at the Stephens Elementary Gym at 8 a.m. Tickets are $10.
Lawn Care
Monday, Janurary 15
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MLK CELEBRATION: The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration will be Monday, Jan. 15. It will start with a parade at 9 a.m. beginning at Stephens Elementary School and a
program at the Stephens Elementary School gym at 11 a.m.
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.
Wednesday, February 7
SITE REVIEW: Central Alabama Community College will host a site review for continuing accreditation of its Associate Degree in Nursing program by the ACEN on Feb. 7 at 3 p.m. in Building J of the Childersburg Campus. For further information go to the CACC homepage at www.cacc. edu
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 accompany their veteran and there will be a light reception afterwards. Visit auburnveteransproect. weebly.com/east-alabama-vietnamveterans-welcome-home-cermony. 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 the Alex City Annex at 395 Lee Street, Double Bridges on Highway 63, the Old Daviston School on Highway 22, the Camp Hill Town Hall 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 the Alex City Annex at 395 Lee Street, Double Bridges on Highway 63, the Old Daviston School on Highway 22, the Camp Hill Town Hall 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 the Alex City Annex at 395 Lee Street, Double Bridges on Highway 63, the Old Daviston School on Highway 22, the Camp Hill Town Hall at 309 Holley Ave. and the Union Community Center at 4191 Highway 50. Dumpsters will be available at no charge to residents.
The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow
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Thursday, December 21, 2017
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Thursday, December 21, 2017
Thursday, December 21, 2017
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Wetumpka mayor steals council show, then Ivey yanks rug board and a profession he has spent more than 50 years in that led him to his short-lived decision. “Fourteen years is a long time, but I love Wetumpka,” Willis said. “Wetumpka’s going to be okay. We’ve got to get some more tax money, but we’re paying the bills.” By DAVID GRANGER and COREY ARWOOD Sales tax revenue was something Staff Writers to which Willis had referred – and advocated for an increase in – earlier Gov. Kay Ivey rescinded her in the meeting, citing other area appointment of Wetumpka Mayor Jerry David Granger / The Outlook municipalities’ sales tax rates of 9 and Willis Tuesday, resulting in Willis’ Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis announced he 10 cents while Wetumpka’s remained at rescinding of his resignation as mayor, will stay on as mayor after Gov. Ivey rescinded 8. announced Monday night in front of a Prior to Willis’ surprising her offer. crowded Wetumpka Civic Center at a announcement, the council did honor city council meeting. Wetumpka City Council was supposed the Wetumpka High School football Ivey made the decision to rescind to be largely a feel-good event to team for its outstanding 2017 season. the offer to Willis to head the Alabama celebrate and honor the 2017 Wetumpka Willis introduced Wetumpka’s own Board of Cosmetology and Barbering Indians football team, who advanced Danielle Percival, assistant director of because he “failed to disclose an to the state championship game before athletic communications at Georgia’s important, and significant, legal matter losing to Pinson Valley at the Super Piedmont College, who served as the which has now come to my attention,” Seven in Tuscaloosa’s Bryant-Denny sideline reporter for the AHSAA Super Ivey said in a statement released Stadium. 7 television broadcasts, to present Tuesday. But as the meeting was coming to and WHS head coach Tim Perry with a Ivey did not elaborate on any details end with the mayor’s traditional annual plaque from the city. The plaque reads: of the legal matter to which she alluded. city update, Willis, who has served “On behalf of the City of Wetumpka, Willis told the Herald late Tuesday the town as mayor for the last decade, congratulations on an outstanding afternoon that he had rescinded his announced his resignation, shocking season. We commend your achievements resignation and would stay on as mayor most in the crowd. and success as the 1st Wetumpka High of Wetumpka. “Sometime about a year ago I was School football team to ever reach this “I’m rescinding my resignation and offered an opportunity to do something goal. 2017 AHSAA Class 6A RunnerI’m going to stay on here in Wetumpka different than I am now and I had a Up.” and finish the job we’ve started,” difficult time with that,” Willis said In addition to Willis, local judges said Willis, as he apologized for the Monday night. “But as of today I Patrick Pinkston and Bill Lewis, a confusion that last night’s announcement have been appointed by the governor former Indian player himself who also and today’s decision may cause. “It was of the State of Alabama to head up a played college football at Sewanee, a tough decision to go, but it is not a department for the state of Alabama in made remarks to the team. tough decision to stay.” an area where I have worked all of my Pinkston talked about momentum and Asked if any conversations he may life. I was in the haircutting business. carrying it over from football into life. have had on Tuesday weighed into his So I have been appointed to be the “Y’all were sure fun to watch and decision, Willis said, “No, I just knew executive director of barbering and you did elevate Wetumpka football,” in my heart. I just knew I need to stay in cosmetology for the state of Alabama.” Pinkston said. “I imagine they will be Wetumpka.” Willis later said, “the timing just talking about this season for years to After Willis’ call to the Herald seemed right. I love Wetumpka, But come. May I encourage you young confirming his rescinding of the being mayor here is a full-time job with men to consider the following: football resignation tendered verbally Monday a part-time salary. And this offered me seasons like this one are special. night, the City issued a news release an opportunity to go back to my roots, Heading into the playoffs, ranked as that said, “After further consideration, to the profession where I spent so many y’all were, we all had a feeling of Mayor Willis is withdrawing the years of my life.” momentum. With each successive informal conditional resignation that Prior to entering politics as a exciting win, that momentum increased. was previously announced. Mayor Wetumpka city councilman, Willis was By the time y’all had three playoff wins Willis has reconsidered and does not a barber. He still owns the Bridge Street under your belt, the momentum was intend to submit a formal resignation. shop that he has run since the 1970s. at a fevered pitch. And going into that As per the handbook for Mayors and He said he had begun his career in the championship game, y’all knew that Councilmembers section 18 (d): A hair industry “as a 19-year-old kid. It’s nobody could stop you when y’all were contingent resignation (or one effective an honor and a privilege to be chosen executing. on a given date) can be withdrawn at to be able to (lead the Alabama Board “So my question to you tonight is any time prior to the effective date or of Cosmetology and Barbering). The this: Is there really any reason why in its acceptance by the council, whichever governor offered me the opportunity and your individual lives that you cannot comes first. Neither such contingencies I’m excited about it.” tap back into that momentum? One half have occurred.” Willis insisted it was nothing more of a football game does not define the The Monday meeting of the than the opportunity to lead the state
Willis will remain mayor after Ivey took back appointment
season. What will define this season going forward are your choices. And I suggest that each one of your define this season on your terms and that you use the momentum from this season. … It is my sincere hope and desire that each of you will seize the opportunity of this still glowing moment and chart a champion’s course for your lives and then execute it.” “The big picture is this, guys,” Lewis said. “In a world where everybody is trying to split everybody apart, you guys show why this community is so great, because you brought us all together. Seeing where our community came together to support you and have your backs, that’s a testament to what you guys did this season as young men. And it was awesome to see.” Lewis, who said “150 pounds or so ago” he played a little football himself, talked about the speed and intensity with which this year’s Wetumpka team played before drawing on the similarities between football and life. “Football is a direct reflection of life,” Lewis said. “Football is about building relationships and so is life. Football is about coming together to achieve your goals. So is life. And most important football is about dealing with adversity. When you guys lost to Opelika, you could have folded it up and went home. But instead you went on an unprecedented run all the way to the state finals and made history. “But don’t just leave it there. Carry it with your forever. Carry this stuff that you learned from Coach Perry and everybody else with you forever. And, also, the brotherhood that you guys have is going to be a brotherhood you have for the rest of your lives.” In other action, the council: • Held a public hearing on and unanimously approved a liquor license for Highway 231 Tavern (Black Cloud LLC), located at 4041 U.S. Highway 231 (between Virginia Loop and Cambridge Drive); • Voted unanimously to surplus a graphic plotter the City had purchased used from the Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Council; • Heard an update on the city’s progress through the year, including accomplishments by the city at its parks and recreation facilities, planned activities for Main Street Wetumpka, the status of the Hampton Inn construction (should open early spring of 2018, according to the mayor) and other items.
LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com
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Thursday, December 21, 2017
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JOE MCADORY Columnist
Jackson spoke, but the voters didn’t listen
G
od bless the late Keith Jackson. The sound of his voice brings back memories of my youth and college football games past — old school football, often of the Southern variety. When Keith Jackson spoke, you listened. Not because his voice was perfect for your ears or he could cover any sport, anytime, anywhere, but because the man from Carrollton, Georgia, knew what he was talking about. When Jackson, donning that familiar, gold ABC Sports blazer, took the broadcasting booth’s pulpit moments before the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 2, 1984, he preached about a potential brewing controversy in the polls. Here’s what he said, and he said it like a boss: “At the end of the regular season, this was the ranking: Nebraska, Texas, Auburn, Illinois, and Miami. After what has happened today, Texas losing to Georgia in the Cotton Bowl, 10-9, Illinois getting trounced by UCLA in the Rose Bowl, there are now three teams with an opportunity to claim the national championship for 1983. Those three teams are: the Auburn Tigers, ranked third in the nation playing No. 8 Michigan here in New Orleans, and No. 1-ranked Nebraska playing No. 5 Miami in the Orange Bowl. “If Nebraska wins the Orange Bowl, it’s academic. If Miami should upset Nebraska in the Orange Bowl and Auburn should defeat Michigan here in the Sugar Bowl, then you’ve got to look at the respective records. “Alright, what about it? Auburn played eight bowl teams and they beat seven of them. They lost just one. They lost to Texas. Miami, on the other hand, opened against Florida and was trounced by the Gators. Auburn, on that particular instance, defeated Florida. “We’d have to sit down, I think, and draw some conclusions from the respective schedules.” Preach, brother. When Al Del Greco made a 19-yard field goal on the final play to lift Auburn past the Wolverines, 9-7, it was academic. Right? The top-ranked team in the land, Nebraska, lost that night. Like Jackson mentioned, second-ranked Texas also lost. So naturally, the third-ranked team in the pecking order that clearly played the nation’s toughest schedule and won the Sugar Bowl should be the national champion. After all, Jackson said, “We’d have to sit down, I think, and draw some conclusions from the respective schedules.” Auburn beat No. 5 Florida, No. 7 Maryland, No. 4 Georgia, No. 19 Alabama, and No. 8 Michigan — all in succession to close the season. On the other hand, Miami beat three ranked teams — and only one ranked in the Top 10. Miami’s only loss was to Florida, 28-3. What in the name of Howard Schnellenberger happened that night in Gainesville? By the way, Auburn beat Florida. Let’s do the math … Auburn beat seven of eight bowl teams, four ranked in the Top 10 — including the team that clobbered Miami. Instead, the Associated Press and Coaches Poll awarded Miami, 31-30 winners over Nebraska, with the national championship. For what it’s worth, the Hurricanes won that landmark game in their home stadium, the Orange Bowl. Jackson, using proper logic, admitted before the Sugar and Orange Bowls who the real champion should have been in that scenario. Whoa, Nellie! God bless Keith Jackson, again. Joe McAdory is communications editor at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business.
HOLIDAY HOOPS
Reeltown to host area’s first holiday tourney By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
For the first time in recent memory, Reeltown is hosting a varsity holiday basketball tournament, and it all begins today. “Me and (girls) coach (Will) Solomon said we always wanted to do one,” Rebels boys coach Jonathan Gardner said. “Last year we did one for junior high, and it went well, so we wanted to get experience on the varsity level. For the past three years, we’ve been going to the Benjamin Russell tournament, which is after Christmas, which is hard on our families with having to be away. We wanted to host our own this year so we could invite our families and friends.” The boys will kick off the action with a game between Holtville and Pike Road at noon, followed by a pair of girls games featuring Reeltown versus Booker T. Washington at 2 p.m. and Wadley versus Pike Road at 4 p.m. “All of our teams in the tournament have been so busy playing area teams, we haven’t had a whole lot of time to learn about our opponents,” Solomon said. “We haven’t played Booker
Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook
Reeltown’s Mya Coleman, right, defends Karsen Kinman, of Horseshoe Bend, earlier this season. The Rebels will have their first home game today when they host the Reeltown Holiday Hoops Tournament.
T. Washington in a long time, if ever, so this gives us new competition. The biggest thing with my team
in particular to be focusing on is building that chemistry we’ve put together these last couple games and solidifying
everyone’s roles.” Because only three boys teams are attending the tournament, the Rebels will finish it off with a game against Pike Road at 6 p.m. Friday’s slate will feature the girls consolation game at 2 p.m., followed by Reeltown versus Holtville boys and ending with the girls championship at 6 p.m. “For us, this will be our first home game,” Gardner said. “We’ve played five games and we’ve been waiting to play at home. We’ve been in blue all season, so we’re waiting to play in white. As long as we play our ball, we should be all right.” Regardless of how the Rebels fare, this tournament is a good breakup in the monotony of practicing for two weeks straight. “Over the Christmas break, a lot of people have some dead time where they don’t have regular season games, so it’s good to be able to come and not just practice,” Solomon said. “Most schools either got out of school (Tuesday) or (Wednesday), so this is a good time to get in some really good competition.” The cost to attend will be $7 per day.
Dadeville sweeps middle school tourney STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
Both Dadeville’s girls and boys junior high basketball teams reigned victorious at the Sanford Invitational Tournament last week. On the boys side, the Tigers dominated their opening game, 59-23, over Loachapoka, then narrowly defeated Russell County, 39-32, to earn the championship. Against Loachapoka, Dadeville jumped out to a big lead and never trailed. It was a season high for points scored. It was a different story against Russell County, though, as Dadeville trailed by six points at halftime. The Tigers stormed back and took a lead late in the fourth quarter and sealed the victory on strong free-throw shooting. The boys finished the season 11-2 with their only losses coming to Alexander City Submitted / The Outlook and Southside. Both the Dadeville girls, top, and boys, above, junior high basketball teams won the Sanford Dadeville’s girls team also won the Invitational Tournament last week. Sanford tournament and ended the year with a 12-1 season. “I’m extremely proud of these girls,” well together. They have good leadership graders who will be coming back next Tigers girls coach Brownie Caldwell said. qualities and have been a positive example year. This is another great group of young “The eighth-graders have posted a 22-4 ladies. These girls have a great future if for our younger players. record over the past two years. They play “I’m also very excited for our seventh- they stick together and work hard.”
LOCAL SPORTS CALENDAR 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.
Friday, Dec. 22 Reeltown Holiday Hoops Tournament Girls: Consolation, 2 p.m. Boys: Reeltown vs. Holtville, 4 p.m. Girls: Championship, 6 p.m.