OPINION: GIVING HELPS MAKE LIFE COMPLETE, PAGE 4.
THE
WHAT’S HAPPENING? CALENDAR, PAGE 5.
THURSDAY LAKE MARTIN SLAM FEST
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892
December 29, 2016
Vol. 124, No. 261
Sports, page 9-10.
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Rail crossing work scheduled in January By MITCH SNEED Editor
Several area rail crossings will be getting some much-needed attention just after the first of the year. It was announced Wednesday that crews working for Norfolk Southern will be in Mitch Sneed / The Outlook Alabama beginning Jan. 3 to begin rail An ambulance navigates the rail crossing on Commerce Street at Washington Street in Alexan- replacement and crossing work. “A rail gang will be arriving in Alabama der City. The crossing is one of eight in Tallapoosa County that will be addressed as crews from on Jan. 3, but the exact dates that they will Norfolk Southern arrive in Alabama on Jan. 3.
be in Alexander City and Tallapoosa has not been set in stone,” said Lisa McCauley, project coordinator with RoadSafe Rail and Utilities. “But we do have eight that are in Tallapoosa County that will be getting work done in January.” Seeing repair work scheduled is welcomed by area motorists, especially news that the crossing between Lee Street and Washington Streets along Highway 22 in Alexander City is on the list.
Russell Medical awarded its accreditation
Tim Wellborn returns as CEO of Wellborn Forestry Products By MITCH SNEED Editor
STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
Alexander City’s Russell Medical has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for hospital accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. News of the accomplishment was released Wednesday by Russell Medical President and Chief Operating Officer Jim Peace. The Gold Seal of Approval is a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe and effective patient care, according to the release. Peace said the hospital takes pride in this highly desired recognition, and that staff stay ‘Joint Commission Ready’ every day. “We are pleased to receive accreditation from The Joint Commission, the premier health care quality improvement and accrediting body in the nation,” Peace said. “Staff from across the organization work together daily to develop and implement See HOSPITAL • Page 3
See RAILROAD • Page 3
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
TRAINING UNDER FIRE The Alexander City Fire Department took advantage of a dilapidated house on Franklin Street near Benjamin Russell High School to train on various aspects of battling a structure fire. Training leaders, like Captain Jeff Brewer above, showed how to help keep a fire contained, keep adjacent structures safe, make sure that utility lines are not damaged as well when various water patterns should be employed were covered during the training fire Wednesday. For more photos, see page 3. Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Tim Wellborn has returned to serve as the president and CEO of Alexander City-based Wellborn Forest Products, according to a release issued by the company Tuesday. Having served as Wellborn Forest Products president and CEO from 1996-2008, Tim replaces David Gordon who has Wellborn served in that post since May 2015. According to the release, “Tim will be leading with a new strategic vision while renewing the foundation and legacy that the cabinet company was built upon. Tim will advance the high-end semi-custom cabinet operation’s growth and profitability with an emphasis on craftsmanship through product innovation and technology reinvestment.” Wellborn said it’s the people who have made a career with the company that led him to agree to assume the helm. “The kitchen industry is strong See WELLBORN • Page 3
United Way seeks help to reach goal By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer
The Lake Martin Area United Way is nearing the end of its yearly campaign and remains a few percentage points away from the fundraising goal of $535,000 to support its nearly 30 local non-profit agency partners. LMAUW Executive Director Sharon Fuller said they have reached 92 percent of the year’s campaign, and will continue working to gather the rest until they had met their goal. Fuller said she was, “Working hard these next few weeks to see how much money we could bring back to the partners.” Currently Fuller said they had raised $491,053.50 and were missing about $44,000.
Today’s
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“It’s always nerve-racking,” Fuller said about nearing the end of a year’s campaign. Within the next few weeks Fuller said LMAUW would hold an allocation hearing in order for the volunteer board-members to decide how much support could be given to what local agency the LMAUW partnered with. She said they would hear reports from 28 agencies that would recount their year to the board members, detailing what their individual efforts had been, what their needs were and how many lives they had affected through their work and the United Way’s funding. She said some agencies in their network of groups provided services like children’s and veteran’s programs. See UNITED WAY • Page 3
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United Way’s Sharon Fuller updates those gathered at an event earlier this month about the progress of the campaign as Ken Cowart of the Alex City Rescue Squad looks on.
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Baby’s birth sparks interest in absentee father’s family
Friday
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Staff
Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Lonna Upton Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 lonna.upton@alexcityoutlook.com Cathy Higgins Sports Editor, Ext. 228 cathy.higgins@alexcityoutlook.com
Postal
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 29, 2016
The Outlook
Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com Alethia Russell Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 alethia.russell@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Donna Jones Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 donna.jones@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Advertising Sales, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Advertising Sales, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com
DEAR ABBY: My twin sister and I were raised by a single mom. Because Mom received welfare benefits, she was required to list “potential” fathers in order to receive aid. After a time, the state required paternity tests be given to the men she had listed, so we had no idea who our biological father was until we were 16. Although paternity was proven, he never attempted to contact us. I recently learned that he died several years ago at a relatively young age (mid50s). I also discovered that he had at least two other children, one of whom I was able to locate on Facebook. I don’t want to cause any undue distress by reaching out to them. However, I’m curious about any historical information they could provide, particularly medical or hereditary issues I should know about. All of a sudden I have this overwhelming need for information, especially now that I have a child.
DEAR ABBY Advice
Should I try and contact my half-siblings, or let it go and hope there’s nothing there to find out? I don’t want to hurt anyone, but I feel I just have to know. -- NEEDS TO KNOW DEAR NEEDS TO KNOW: The revelation that you and your sister exist may come as a shock to your half-siblings, so be prepared. Ideally, the way to go about asking for the information you’re seeking would be through an intermediary such as a lawyer. However, if you can’t afford one, then write a letter explaining who you are and that you are a parent and would like any information that can be provided about any genetic illnesses that run in
your father’s side of the family, including his cause of death. While you’re at it, be sure to mention that you are not trying to intrude -- only to find information that may be pertinent to you, your twin sister and your child. DEAR ABBY: I have been separated from my ex-wife for a year and I’m still depressed. I can’t eat, I sleep only a couple of hours a night and since the split I have lost 40 pounds. I’m in my late 20s. My wife and I were together since high school. We have two kids. We separated because of her infidelity and immaturity. I was the one who decided to leave and I don’t regret my decision, but a part of me can’t move on. I’m still nice to her and cater to her sometimes, but I want to stop. I feel she uses me because she knows I will always love her. How do I break my bond with her?
-- STILL NOT OVER HER IN NORTH CAROLINA DEAR STILL NOT OVER HER: If your ex-wife is the only woman you have ever dated or been intimate with, it’s not surprising that this has been extremely hard for you. Divorce can bring with it a roller coaster of emotions, some high and some low. Because you can’t seem to break out of the lows, it might help you to go online and research divorce support groups for men and attend some meetings. However, if you find you need more help than that to disengage -- and you may -- ask your doctor for a referral to a licensed mental health professional. 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.
Dadeville High School awarded National Beta School of Distinction
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, Kenneth Boone Photography and a commercial web printing press. © 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
Obituaries
Submitted / The Outlook
National Beta School of Distinction Award is an honor for Beta Chapters striving towards academic achievement, exemplary character, demonstrated leadership and service to others. With an ongoing quest to instill these qualities in more students, the National Beta School of Distinction Award is designed to award those schools that show an increase in membership for the 2016-2017 school year. The DHS Beta chapter increased membership exceeding the 10 percent requirement and thereby was awarded the National Beta School of Distinction.
Robert Caldwell A memorial service to celebrate the life of Robert Caldwell will be held Friday, Dec. 30 at 12:00 p.m. at Promise Land Church on Highway 63 North Johnny Wayne Thorton officiating. Mr. Caldwell was born July 24, 1949 and passed on Dec. 16, 2016. No flowers please and donations to help with funeral expenses are appreciated. All friends and relatives are invited.
Mr. Bobby Mask 1947 - 2016 Graveside Service for Mr. Bobby Mask, 69, of Alexander City, will be Friday, December 30, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at the Russell Farms Baptist Cemetery. Rev. Ricky Culp will officiate. Mr. Mask passed away on Tuesday, December 27, 2016 at his residence. He was born on July 2, 1947 in Alexander City, Alabama to Marvin Mask and Pauline Mask. He was an active member of Russell Farm Baptist Church. Mr. Mask enjoyed his spending time with his grandchildren, fishing and hunting. He is survived by
Mrs. Priscilla Ann Mathis 1943 - 2016 Priscilla Ann Mathis went to be with the Lord December 27, 2016 while
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his wife, Tina Mask of Alexander City; son, Michael Mask, Jr. (Kathleen) of Alexander City; grandchildren, Angel Mask (Johnathon Bolan), Heaven Mask, Bethany Mask, and Lance Mask; great-grandchild, Matthew Mask; sisters, Sarah Fuller, Patricia Mask and Betty Mask; brothers, Earl Mask and Travis Mask (Linda). He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Michael Mask, Sr., and brother, Rody Mask. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome.com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. vacationing in her favorite place, Pigeon Forge, TN. She was 73. Priscilla was born on July 20, 1943 in Alexander City, Alabama to James Clyde and Mary L. Patten and was married to Bob Mathis of Alexander City, Alabama. She loved traveling, painting, and spending time with her extended family. With a loving and giving spirit, she touched the hearts of many throughout her life. She will be greatly missed. Priscilla is survived by her husband, Bob Mathis; children, Glen, Bobby (Rene`) and Terry; stepchildren, Joel and Sherri (Paul); grandchildren, Cairisti, Miranda (Ethan),
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) 2344281.
Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department December 27
• A resident of Water Mark Path filed a report for criminal mischief. • A resident of Notasulga Road filed a report for criminal mischief. • A resident of Brazzell Road filed a report for harassment. • A resident of Highway 50 in Camp Hill filed a report for domestic violence third.
December 26
• A resident of Ridge Road filed a report for theft. • A resident of Highway 63 North filed a report assault. • A resident of Lakeshore Drive filed a report for criminal mischief.
December 25
• Billy Lawson of Swamp Haley, Megan, Kris (John), Alex, Emily, Eric (Kelsey), and Jamie; great-grandchildren, Bailey, Jackson, Kayden, Hayden, Bentlie, JayJay, Kaden and Maison. Priscilla was preceded in death by her first born child, Connie Lane. Funeral Services will be held Friday, December 30, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the Wayside Baptist Church. Rev. John Harold Denney, Rev. Fred Woodall, and Rev. Shane Dismuke will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 29, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. The family will accept flowers or memorial contributions to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome. com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Hollow Road in Dadeville was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear for possession of a controlled substance.
• Labrenikin Johnson of Robinson Road in Alexander City was arrested for criminal trespassing.
December 23
• Donald George of Hicks Store Road in Tallassee was arrested on outstanding warrants for probation violation and a bench warrant.
• A resident of Cobb Road in Notasulga filed a report for criminal mischief. • Jeremy Edmondson of Wright Lane in Sylacauga was arrested for an outstanding warrant for failure to appear child support.
December 22
• A resident of Brazzell Road in Camp Hill filed a report for harassment. • Jennifer Crain of Jacksons Gap was arrested for several active failure to appear warrants. • A resident of Hilltop Road in Jacksons Gap filed a report for burglary of a residence and theft of property. • A resident of Lakeview Lane in Dadeville filed a report for fraud.
December 20
• Corzavious Johnson of Third Street in Alexander City was arrested for criminal trespassing.
December 19
December 17
• Willie Wyckoff was arrested for an active bench warrant.
December 14
• A resident of Sandy Lane in Dadeville filed a report for arson, burglary and theft of property.
Dadeville Police Department December 26
• A report was filed for Domestic Violence that occurred on Highway 280. • A report was filed for Burglary and Theft that occurred on Freeman Drive.
December 24
• A report was filed for Criminal Mischief that occurred on Freeman Drive.
December 23
• A report was filed for Unlawful Breaking and Entering of a Vehicle and Theft of Property that occurred on Brookwood Circle. • A report was filed for narcotics that were found on E. Lafayette Street. • A report was filed for Burglary and Theft that occurred on E. Lafayette Street.
December 22
• A report was filed for Possession of a Forged instrument in an incident that occurred at a business located on Highway 280. • A report was filed for Cruelty to Animals that occurred at a residence located on Highway 280.
December 21
• A Dadeville man, age 61, was arrested at the Tallapoosa County Jail on the charge of Failure to Appear. • A Dadeville man, age 35, was arrested on E. Lafayette Street on the charge of Domestic Violence.
Public Meetings n Alexander City Board of Education meets on the third Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the board office at 375 Lee St. or local school at 5 p.m.
second Tuesday and at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday.
n Alexander City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in the courtroom at the old city hall at 5:30 p.m.
n Coosa County Industrial Development Board will hold its regularly scheduled meeting the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Board Room in the courthouse in Rockford. All meetings are open to the public.
n Camp Hill Town Council meets the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 6 p.m.
n Dadeville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. with a pre-meeting at 5:30 p.m. in city hall.
n Community Action Agency of Chambers, Tallapoosa, Coosa will holds its regular board of directors meetings every other month at the Central Office in Dadeville.
n Daviston City Council meets the third Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the Daviston Fire Department.
n Coosa County Board of Education holds called meetings at least once a month. n Coosa County Commission meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the Coosa County Courthouse in Rockford at 9:30 a.m. on the
n Goldville Town Council meets the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the town hall. n Goodwater City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held upstairs in the courthouse at 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, December 29, 2016
Page 3
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
The Alexander City Fire Department took advantage of a dilapidated house on Franklin Street near Benjamin Russell High School to train on various aspects of battling a structure fire.
Wellborn
continued from page 1
and homes are being built. I hope to help reposition the company in the marketplace through the vision that my family had when we started all this,” Wellborn said. “I’m happy to be back, but mainly it’s our employees that led me back. That’s the part that Pam and I missed most – it was working with the people that we have there. “They are what has made the company special and we want to make sure that we continue to lean on them and build on that foundation started by my dad, my brother and our family.” Wellborn’s father, Doug Wellborn and his brother, Paul Wellborn, founded Wellborn Cabinet Co. in 1963. Tim served as vice president of sales for Wellborn Cabinet Co. from 1980-1987 at which point Wellborn Forest Products was established in Alexander City.
United Way She said some agencies in their network of groups provided services like children’s and veteran’s programs. Others found on their website include groups that provide meals for the elderly and disabled, camps for children with disabilities, youth civic clubs, county law enforcement programs and groups that help in cases of domestic and child abuse. “All 28 will share their passion what they do and why they want to be part of United Way,” Fuller said. She said the amount of funding would be determined in part by how much they raised through their campaign, and it can be quantified into a thousands of lives that had been affected through those groups. Fuller said at their current amount the
Hospital approaches and processes that potentially improve care for the patients in our community.” Russell Medical underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite survey Aug 16-18. During the review, a team of Joint Commission expert surveyors evaluated compliance with hospital standards related to several areas, including emergency management, environment of care, infection prevention and control, leadership and medication management. Surveyors also conducted onsite observations and interviews. The accreditation was made public on Nov. 21, 2016. The Joint Commission has accredited hospitals for more than 60 years. More than 4,000 general, children’s, long-term acute, psychiatric, rehabilitation and specialty hospitals currently maintain accreditation from The Joint Commission. The accreditation is awarded for a three-year period. Russell Medical first received accreditation by The Joint Commission
The company produced low-end price-point cabinetry for the multi-unit housing industry. As the company grew, Tim and his father Doug began to move towards higher-end semi-custom cabinetry, which is still being produced today. Tim served as vice president of sales at Wellborn Forest Products from 1987 to 1996, after which he became the company’s President and CEO. Tim has continuously contributed time and expertise not only leading Wellborn Forest Products but also serving on the board of directors of the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturing Association for more than seven years. Tim said that his wife Pam will rejoin him at Wellborn Forest Products. She served as director of design and color until 2008, and she will again dedicate her talents to the design end of the product line.
continued from page 1
funding would reach roughly 22,00025,000 people. “The campaign has gone well we live in a very giving community,” said Fuller. “These agencies are too important not to make goal every year.” “The more we get the more we can give,” Fuller said. She said people were still donating as well, and emphasized that any individual or business could still do so through January either through their website, www.unitedwaylakemartin.org, or by going to their downtown office. “We have people walk in off the street to give us donations,” Fuller said. “We have such a good reputation of accountability people want to give to somebody that they know.”
continued from page 1
in 1959. “Joint Commission accreditation provides hospitals with the processes needed to improve in a variety of areas from the enhancement of staff education to the improvement of daily business operations,” said Mark G. Pelletier, RN, MS, chief operating officer, Division of Accreditation and Certification Operations, The Joint Commission. “In addition, our accreditation helps hospitals enhance their risk management and risk reduction strategies. We commend Russell Medical for its efforts to become a quality improvement organization.” The Joint Commission’s hospital standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients, according to the release. The standards are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help hospitals measure, assess and improve performance.
“It was a big decision for us, but you know how it is, no one understands a business like someone who was there from the beginning,” Wellborn said. “That’s why we decided to do this. We figured one time that we have 840 years of cabinet experience in that plant. With people like that you lean on them and build towards the future.” Earlier this month the company launched a redesigned website that offers a clean look and eases navigation for users shopping for custom cabinets. Wellborn Forest Products offers more than 96 door styles, hundreds of finishes, numerous storage solutions and dozens of decorative embellishments. Wellborn Forest celebrated its Silver Anniversary in 2014. The company employs 276 people in its 200,000 square foot facility in Alexander City.
Railroad
continued from page 1
While crews have put patches between the rails several times, the area has been rough for several months. “In addition to replacing the rails that you have seen there for a number of months, we will also be doing pavement work to make sure that they are all in good shape and as smooth as possible,” McCauley said. Other crossings that will get attention are: • Commerce Drive • Elkahatchee Street • South Central at Highway 63 • Third Street • Main Street crossing to Slaughter in Camp Hill • Kernoodle Avenue in Camp Hill • Wilson Street in Camp Hill McCauley said that all the crossings will not be closed at the same time.
Instead traffic will be rerouted at the crossings where work is active and will be reopened as they move on to the next crossing. In some cases there could be more than one closed, but that is not usually the case. “We don’t aim to restrict traffic flow needlessly and will get them reopened as quickly as possible,” McCauley said. “Our goal is to be as fast and efficient as possible.” McCauley said crews typically work 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and try not to have crossings closed overnight. Getting the crossings adjacent to Washington and Lee Street done now is also good news for Alexander City officials. Major paving projects are planned on those roads next spring, meaning that motorists will find a complete makeover when all the work is done.
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EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 4
Thursday, December 29, 2016
Our
View
Giving helps make A look back at 2016: a year of living angrily life complete H
C
hristmas may have come and gone, but the giving season is not over. There are still a few days remaining to make donations to local charitable organizations and have them count come tax time. The Lake Martin Community shows again and again that it has a big heart. We have seen families helped through Alexander City Police Department’s Shop With a Cop and the Angel Tree Program at Salvation Army. We have seen churches give to families in need and deliver bikes to children at the Boys & Girls Club. We have seen shoppers drop donations in Red Kettles as volunteer bell ringers manned their post. To all of you who participated in any of these charitable campaigns, The Outlook would like to take this opportunity to say “thank you” and to encourage you to continue to give as long as you are able. As we hear from donors often, the joy of giving and helping others is a memorable feeling. Today we report that the Lake Marin Area United Way is about $44,000 short of making its annual campaign goal. For a county with the relatively small population that Tallapoosa County has, it’s amazing that donors have helped the United Way reach their goal year after year. Let’s face it, $535,000 is a lot of money, but our area does have big needs and 28 agencies that always do a lot with a little to make sure that people have the help they need. While we realize that all of us are limited in our means, we also know that small, seemingly insignificant gifts add up and become big, important gifts in the end. No gift is insignificant. What may seem a pittance to you could mean a warm meal to a family in need. So if you can, let’s help push United Way over the top. Winston Churchill said, “You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.” Here at The Outlook, we couldn’t agree more.
ere is my annual look back at the year coming to a close: • Self-driving automobiles made progress in 2016. The fear is by 2025 4 million American truck driving jobs will be in jeopardy. The only truck driving jobs left will be for ISIS suicide jihadis. Gov. Jerry Brown, always eager to regulate, issued a DMV ruling that Uber’s driverless cars in California will be illegal, but he did say they would be allowed to vote. • Eighty-two college football teams will play in bowl games; some teams, including Hawaii, have losing records. Even Trump University got a bowl bid: It will play the Electoral College. Pollsters favor the Electoral College by 6. • After losing the presidency, folks wonder how much longer the Clintons will stay married. To be fair, many people stay in bad relationships a long time. Once, I didn’t break up with a girl for a year because her dad owned a liquor store. But I learned early that, when someone does something stupid, being drunk is not the answer – but it’s always a good first guess. • Trump showed an incredible capacity for forgiveness in meetings with Mitt Romney and other outspoken critics. He even thought about appointing Hillary as Ambassador to Iran, but we don’t hate them quite that much yet. • Once again, we showed we live in an amazing country. A man who just paid a fine for running a fake college got to appoint our Secretary of Education – and it is probably the best pick ever. Trump needs another African-American cabinet pick, but soon will only have
RON HART Syndicated Columnist
Agriculture Secretary left to fill. He’s instructed his staff to vet Charlie Pride or Patches to see if either will serve. The post comes with perks: All black GOP appointees are assured front row seats at every Republican Convention. • Obama leaves office desperately looking for positive legacy items. He presided over the longest war in American history, ordered the bombing of five countries, and killed Osama bin Laden with Navy Seals and an American citizen with a drone – which, of course, won him a Nobel Peace Prize. • Colleges continues to grow pansies. 75 years ago, 19-year-olds of the Greatest Generation invaded Europe and fought Japan in the Pacific. Now if a 19-year-old sees a “Trump for President” sign on Emory’s campus, he or she has to find a safe place and is given psychological counseling. The politically correct police even turned our holiday classic, “Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” into a date rape song. Soon, the only-value added proposition of going to an overpriced college will be, as I see it, that it’s the easiest way to join an a cappella group. • Obama was unable to shut down Guantanamo Bay. The only thing left he can do to close Gitmo is to turn it into an Obamacare state healthcare exchange and just wait a year. I’m torn; if he does shut down Gitmo, it will end any hope
that I get to see Cuba. • It was another bad year for Hollywood; the studios resorted to comic book superhero movies. The latest Star Wars movie, Rogue One, was a hit. Men said they would miss sleep, get up at 4 a.m. and stand in line to watch the latest Star Wars movie. They would even miss sex, if that was an option. • Melania Trump announced she will stay in New York City as her husband moves to the White House so their son, Barron, can finish school. Then Bill Clinton lied and said Donald Trump called him, when the reverse was true. I expect the jealous rivalry to continue. Donald Trump has what Bill Clinton always wanted: an $8 billion net worth, the most powerful office in the world, and a hot wife who lives in another town. • Trump will bring his own security guy to White House. It’s a dangerous job. Several more Secret Service agents were awarded medals for taking a lamp for Bill Clinton when Hillary lost. • Democrats and the legacy media got all twitchy after losing the election, saying the Russians rigged it. WikiLeaks released DNC emails showing how the DNC plotted to undermine Bernie Sanders in their primary. So to recap, if I understand what the left is saying here, Putin might have rigged our election by revealing how Democrats rigged their election. Ron Hart is a libertarian op–ed humorist and award–winning author, Ron is a frequent guest on CNN. He can be contacted at Ron@RonaldHart.com or @ RonaldHart on Twitter.
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.
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.
Buffy Colvin
Scott Hardy represents 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
Eric Brown represents District 4. His phone number is 256-3972011. His address is 1421 Parrish Drive, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Public Works committee.
Eric Brown
Tommy Spraggins represents District 5. His phone number is 256-234-3609. His address is 1539 College Street, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of Finance committee.
Tommy Spraggins
Tim Funderburk represents District 6. His phone number is 256-825-2993. His address is 1431 River Oaks, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of Utilities committee.
Tim Funderburk
“Let us never know what old age is. Let us know the happiness time brings, not count the years.” – Ausonius
Today’s
Scripture
“But Moses protested again, ‘What if they won’t believe me? What if they say, ‘The Lord never appeared to you?” – Exodus 4:1
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Fast Food Restaurant –17 Grocery Store – 40
Thursday Question: Will you go out to celebrate the new year or stay at home? 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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Jim Nabors
Bobby Tapley
Quote
How to
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.
Today’s
As year ends, let’s remember those like Nola Ochs
E
very year around this time we stop and think about some of the legends we’ve lost since the previous New Year’s Eve. Each year, the loss seems greater than imaginable. 2016 is no different. Look at the music industry alone. Among those who left us in 2016 were David Bowie, Glenn Frey, Merle Haggard, Prince, Leonard Cohen and, most recently, George Michael. Put simply, that’s a heckuva playlist taken from us. You can find the lists on the internet. There were many famous people who died in 2016. Dan Haggerty, Abe Vigoda, Nancy Reagan, Joe Garagiola, Muhammad Ali – the list goes on and on. And then there are people like Nola Hill Ochs. Bet you never heard of her. Well, Nola Ochs died on Dec. 9 at the age of 105. Almost 10 years before, in May 2007, she had been certified by the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest living college graduate. A native of Jetmore, Kansas, Ochs began her college career at what was then Kansas State College in Fort Hays, Kansas, in 1930. She and her husband, Vernon, raised a family of four sons on their Kansas farm. The sons gave them 13 grandchil-
DAVID GRANGER TPI Staff
dren and they gave the Ochs 15 great-grands. Vernon Ochs died in 1972 and Nola, her children grown, went back to school, this time at Dodge City Community College in Dodge City, Kansas. Later, she learned that she was only 30 hours away from her bachelor’s degree in general studies, so she moved the 100 miles to Fort Hays and graduated from Fort Hays State University on May 14, 2007. She told a reporter at the ceremony that she wanted to be a storyteller on a cruise ship. But Nola never made it to the cruise ship. Instead she began working on her master’s in August of that same year and received her master’s on May 15, 2010 at age 98, becoming the oldest person to ever receive a master’s. As of her 100th birthday in November of 2011, Nola was a graduate teaching assistant at Fort Hays State. Ochs said she didn’t keep track of her age, “but I can tell you I was born in November of
1911. I’ve led a long, interesting life. We (Nola and Vernon) went through the dust storms. We had some difficult times in our marriage, financially. But it’s been the Lord’s will that I’ve lived this long life, and I thank Him kindly for it.” Nola’s life wasn’t a piece of cake. In addition to the Dust Bowl days and the financial hard times, imagine the work that goes into raising four sons. Then imagine two of those sons – sons you had protected and nurtured – preceding you in death. Nola lost her first son in 1972. Her second died just nine months prior to his mother. So as we remember 2016 and the stars that we have lost – in the music world and other areas of popular entertainment – let’s remember those like Nola Ochs, too. She never had a Top 40 hit. She never starred in a movie. She never made a name for herself in politics or wrote a bestseller. But despite having never done any of those noteworthy things, her life is truly one to emulate. Granger is the managing editor of the Elmore County papers for Tallapoosa Publishers.
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Thursday, December 29, 2016
The Outlook
CommunityCalendar Season Johnson
Today is
December 29, 2016
Today’s Anniversary
Jeffery and Celia Holley are celebrating their anniversary.
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Steve “Cubbie” Culberson, Harriet Hayes Dodd, Clara Baker, Carrie Leigh Smith and Yvonne Hunter are celebrating their birthday.
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TPI’s Donna Jones presents Esther Kelly with $250 for winning the final week’s Christmas Cash.
Careers Technology program is funded by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and was created to help dislocated workers learn new employable skills. January 22 To qualify for the programs be a disloHISTORICAL SOCIETY: The cated worker (layoff) or a low-income Tallapoosee Historical Society will family. Anyone interested in the classhold its quarterly meeting on Sunday, es should contact the Alexander City Jan. 22 at 2 p.m. The meeting will be January 3 Career Center @ 256-215-4494 and held at Beulah Baptist Church, 5891 USHER MEETING: The Early Rose ask about the WIA program. Most all Lovelady Road, Dadeville, AL. Troy District Usher meeting is Tuesday, Jan. dislocated workers automatically qualTurner, Editor of Opelika-Auburn News 3 at 5 p.m. at the Early Rose District will be the speaker. There is no admis- ify for financial assistance. The proCenter. gram is 52 weeks and is open entry/ sion and the public is invited. open exit. Students learn at their own January 4 pace in a non-traditional classroom January 28 MONTHLY LUNCHEON: Bibb setting. Classes begin when students PASTORS MEETING: Take the Graves High School Alumni and City Lake Martin is providing a meal to are approved and they may leave Friends in Millerville will have their when they receive any or all of the cerall local pastors, ministry leaders and Monthly Luncheon on January 4, from tificates offered. Classes are Monday11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Please bring a cov- city leaders Jan. 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 -Thursday, 8:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m. (with p.m. at the cabin in the Sportsplex. For ered dish and a small donation. There a lunch break). All textbooks and class will be no Family Game Night Bingo in more information call 256-307-8099. materials are supplied. Certificates December. available are receptionist, inventory February 11 clerk, data entry clerk, administrative MISS WINTER: The 2017 Miss January 7 assistant, accounting office clerk, mediWinter Pageant will be Feb. 11 at 2 BABY BOOT CAMP: Russell cal office clerk, legal office clerk. p.m. at the Dadeville High School Medical is offering a one-day Baby COMPUTER LAB: The new and Auditorium. Rehearsals will take place improved computer lab at Cooper Boot Camp. This four-hour childbirth course is designed for busy couples to Friday, Feb. 10 at 5 p.m. Applications Community Center is now open to may be picked up at Little Lambs and better understand pregnancy and the the community Monday thru Thursday birthing process and is taught by labor Ivy Day School or by emailing Sherri from 5 to 8 p.m. LaBrawnski Salter is Williams at misswinterpageant@gmail. the new lab facilitator. You can check and delivery nurse Jennifer Shurette, com. There will be a Baby Miss, Tiny R.N. You can register by calling email, browse the internet, build a Community Relations at 256-329-7145. Miss, Little Miss, Junior Miss, Teen resume, complete a project or homeMiss, Miss, Elite Miss and Miss Winter work, research, job search and some ANNUAL FAMILY GATHERING: Princess. The 10th Annual Family Gathering of social media. the Norris, Holley and Edwards famiCELEBRATE RECOVERY: February 18 lies will be Jan. 7 from noon to 5 p.m. Celebrate Recovery is a ChristCLAY CLASSIC: The Ronald E Bring a dish. For more information concentered ministry designed to help tact Linda Norris Nix at 256-786-9279. Koon Sporting Clay Classic is in its hurting people. It is made up of reguTRASH WALK: The January PATH 11th year of providing a fun filled day lar folks who are on a journey toward for avid shooters to help support our Trash Walk is scheduled for Saturday, wholeness; seeking recovery from life’s local Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Jan. 7. and will meet at Strand Park hurts, habits, and hang-ups. We meet Martin Area. The event will be held at at 8:30 a.m. to receive supplies and every Monday at Vertical Point Church, the Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Club assignments. Volunteers can pick an 860 Airport Drive, Alex City. We begin in Montgomery, Alabama starting at9 area of their choice or be directed to with dinner at 5:45, followed by large a.m. on Feb. 18, 2017. Team of four roads where litter is a constant probgroup at 6:15 & small groups at 7:15. lem. For additional information contact is $600. Team of two is $300 and a Childcare is provided. Everyone is one-man team $100. Lunch, shells, John Thompson at 334-399-3289. welcome. For more info, call Mike at goodie bags and door prizes given to 256-496-4664. each participant Call 256-234-4757 to CCTS ALUMNI MEETING: The January 8 sign up today or email bgcreynolds@ Coosa County Train School and J.D. FASHION, HAIR and COMEDY gmail.com Thompson alumni association hold SHOW: There will be a commumonthly meetings the third Saturday of nity talent, fashion, hair and comedy each month. show with guest from as far away as Ongoing Events BEYOND TRANSFORMATIONS: Arkansas Jan. 8 at 3 p.m. at Passion Meetings every second Saturday. Have Church on Highway 63 North. RECYCLING: The Alexander City you been wanting to give back, work Recycling Facility is located at the with youth, or be a part of a group that Public Works Department at 824 January 14 makes a difference? Please email iamRailey Road. All materials should be MLK PRAYER BREAKFAST: The transforms@gmail.com or Call at 334dropped off behind the green storage Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration 440-6539. Donations of clothes, food, shed on the Public Works lot. The Prayer breakfast will be Jan. 14 at 8 books, computers, school supplies. A facility is always open for unassisted a.m. at Stephen’s Elementary School building and donations are needed. drop off. Assistance with drop off is Gym Tickets are $10. AMERICAN LEGION: Post 339 in available between 7:00 am until 3:30 Cottage Grove is open every Friday p.m. Monday thru Friday. Please call January 16 night from 8 p.m. until with fried chick256-409-2020 for more information. MLK PARADE AND PROGRAM: en and fish. Music from the 70s, 80s, WOMEN’S MEETING: Victory The Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and 90s. Temple Holiness Church in Dadeville parade and program will be Jan. 16 SCV MEETING:The Sons of is hosting a women’s meeting the with the parade at 9 a.m. and program Confederate Veterans meets every first Sunday of every month. Men are at 11 a.m. at Stephens Elementary third Tuesday night at 7 p.m. at J.R.’s invited too. School Gym. Sports Bar & Grill. Visitors are welAWANA: Wayside Baptist Church come. hosts Awana Sundays from 4:40 p.m. January 17 AMATEUR RADIO CLUB: The to 6:30 p.m. for ages three to high MEETING: The Artist Association Lake Martin Amateur Radio Club school. For more information contact of Central Alabama will meet Jan. 17 meets from 6 to 7 p.m. the secGeorge Gardin, student minister, at from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the ond Thursday of every month at 864-580-0343. First Baptist Church. the Alexander City Airport Terminal VOLUNTEER: Southern Care Building with dinner and fellowship Hospice is seeking volunteers. Please following at a local area restaurant. January 20 call Lizz Gillenwaters at 256-234-1134 SPEECH AND HEARING CLINIC: or 256-749-3717 for more information. Amateur radio license exams are available after the meeting by prior Auburn University NSSLHA and SAA WOMAN MEETING: Every first arrangement. The club also meets are having a free speech and hearing Sunday, Victory Temple Holiness on the air (Alabama Emergency Net screening Friday, Jan. 20 from 1 p.m. Church hosts a women’s meeting, at to 4 p.m. No appointment is necessary. 237 Aster St. in Dadeville. Everyone is Victor) on the first, third, fourth and fifth Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. on the club All children must be accompanied by invited. The meeting starts at 2 p.m. parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Services READY TO WORK: Ready to Work sponsored K4YWE repeater at 145.33 mhz with the 146.96 repeater as backwill be provided by the Auburn is a FREE jobs skills training program University Speech and Hearing Clinic offered at Central Alabama Community up. All interested can attend our meetRoom 1199 Haley Center, Auburn College Career Center. Classes meet ings or contact Tim Mayfield K4CWL at University 36849-5232. Monday through Wednesday from 8:00 256-329-1172 or John Phillips WI4P at 256-212-4063 a.m. until noon. Completion of the CAR SHOW: Lake Martin Street January 21 program depends on the skill level of Rods and Classic Cars meets every FLEA MARKET: Sistas for a Cause the individual. For more information are hosting a flea market Jan. 21 contact Elaine Balint, instructor, at 256- third Saturday at Buck’s Dairy Quick in from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Cooper 215-4496 (leave message) or ebalint@ Alexander City from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Call Danny at (256) 496-0024 for Community Center. Vendors are cacc.edu. more information. needed. Spaces are $20 and include OFFICE CAREERS: The Office
December 31
WATCH NIGHT SERVICE: St. John AME Church is hosting Watch Night Services Dec. 31. Food will be served at 10 p.m. and worship starts at 10:45 p.m.
a table. Please call 256-329-6799 for more information.
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Thursday, December 29, 2016
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Thursday, December 29, 2016
The Outlook
Tallassee PD searches for suspects in Hibbett’s robbery By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer
File / The Tribune
Last year the Missoula Children’s Theater performed ‘Alice in Wonderland’. This year the group will perform a rendition of ‘Treasure Island.”
Children’s theater to perform ‘Treasure Island’ By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer
The McCraney-Cottle Arts Foundation will host the Missoula Children’s Theater production of “Treasure Island” at the Tallassee High School auditorium on Jan. 14 at 5:30 p.m. “Treasure Island” is an adventure novel by Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, published in 1883 and is traditionally considered a comingof-age story, noted for its atmosphere, characters and action. Auditions for this performance will be held on Jan. 9 at 3:30 p.m. inside the Tallassee High School auditorium. Students from kindergarten through high school are encouraged to audition for a part in the upcoming performance.
While only a small amount of time was allotted for the Tallassee performance, the Missoula Children’s Theater has moved swiftly to coordinate it. After the auditions and roles are assigned, the first rehearsal is scheduled for that same evening, and rehearsals will continue until the night of performance. The Missoula Children’s Theater and the McCraney-Cottle Arts Foundation have been collaborating for over 10 years to bring performances to Tallassee. The children’s theater travels throughout the nation bringing live performances to cities and towns across the country. “The annual Missoula Children’s Theater is the highlight of our local McCraneyCottle Arts Council,” said Mona
Mills, Director of the McCraneyCottle Arts Foundation. “We are able to involve a large number of our local and surrounding community.” The Missoula Children’s Theater officially began in 1988. Since that time the theater group has hosted more than 1.3 million guests and that list continues to grow. Last year the theater group performed “Alice in Wonderland.” The theater group’s performance was brilliant with bright costumes and meticulous chorography. The performance boasted a packed house and several households had a family member performing in the production. If you have questions or need further information, please contact Mona Mills at 334-201-4892.
Tallassee police have identified a possible vehicle used in the Dec. 20 robbery of Hibbett Sports on Gilmer Avenue. Investigators believe the robbery suspects were driving a Ford Crown Victoria. The vehicle is described as having black wheels and tinted windows. Police describe the three suspects as AfricanAmerican males. The first suspect is described as short, light skinned, wearing a maroon beanie, a gray hoodie and blue jeans. The second suspect is described as tall, dark skinned, wearing a hooded coat and a baseball cap with a red or orange hood. The third suspect is described as tall, wearing a black jacket, blue jeans and a white baseball cap. All three suspects were believed to be of medium build and in their mid-20s. The suspects entered Hibbett Sports on Dec. 13. The suspect wearing the red or orange brimmed cap entered the store and took merchandise and left running on foot. After the first suspect left the store, the two other suspects entered and took additional merchandise. On the way out of the store one of the suspects allegedly threatened to harm the Hibbett employee if the police were called. The two suspects then fled on foot in the direction of Whatley Drive. If you have any information, police urge you to call the Tallassee Police Department at 334283-6586.
Council discusses water tax payments By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
The Dadeville City Council got some answers to questions it asked about sales tax payments to the utility board and about including paving as part of the courthouse square renovation project Tuesday night. “There was a question as to why up to $175,000 (a year) of sales tax are paid to the water and sewer board,” Mayor Wayne Smith said. “This is to take care of the city’s indebtedness that was taken over by the water board.” The Dadeville Water and Sewer Board’s Mike Ingram was also at the council meeting to help explain the matter. “It (sales tax transfer) is based on the monthly sales tax taken in.” Ingram said. “This is a formula that figures the amount…that gives the amount of sales tax that is transferred over to water and sewer to help make those bond payments. That was the figure that was done when Joe Smith was mayor. It was used then and has continued to today.” Council Member Dick Harrelson questioned how long it will take to pay the bonds and how the city could function with this debt. Ingram said that they would be paid off but probably not before more regulations forced the board to do more work. “Mr. Dick to be honest with you, when those bonds were renewed, they were on like a 35 year repayment plan, a series 2012 A and 2012 B,” Ingram said. “The bonds had been refunded several times. The last time they were refunded, there was a portion that could not be paid off early. The big bond was over about a 35 year time frame. “To be honest, at some point they will be paid off but at some point before they are paid off the board will have to go back in and with the regulations from ADEM and others for lead, zincs and phosphorus, the board will have to make some more renovations at the sewer plant at some point and who knows how much it will cost $100,000 or million 2 or 3 million.” Smith explained that this helps the city function.
“This actually helps the city with some of the things that it can do by taking some of the debt so that our borrowing power is not depleted,” Smith said. Robin Reynolds who serves both as city attorney and attorney for the water and sewer board also. “When the water and sewer board assumed all of this indebtedness,… there was significant indebtedness with the city before the water and sewer board took it up,” Reynolds said. “The city was using the bond to fund city services. When the water and sewer board assumed this indebtedness it freed the city up to do some things. The grants with matching funds the city has been involved in that is where the money has come from. Otherwise the city would have been obligated under these bonds and we would not have been able to do that. It has freed up a great deal of money for the city.” Reynolds also explained that if the council were to rescind the resolution that makes the transfer of sales tax to water and sewer board, there would be repercussions. “Lets say the council were to rescind this resolution that transfers the sales tax. With these bonds that they have, the bondholder would have the right to appoint a receiver to come in and raise the rates to whatever rate they want,” Reynolds said. “It would cost every water and sewer customer a tremendous increase in their monthly bill. “If you rescind this…then the water and sewer board is automatically in default. They would have to have an emergency meeting with their accountant to determine the rate increase to recoup this money and everyone’s water and sewer bill would go up tremendously.” The council made no decision on the matter but Smith and Ingram encouraged those with questions to attend the water and sewer board meetings. Council members also had questions about paving around the courthouse with upcoming renovations. Jeff Harrison of CDG who is helping the city with its courthouse square
renovation project, came back after council members wanted estimates to repave portions of the square that have not recently been paved. Harrison explained that Cusseta Street was in the worst shape and that paving was not including in the grant from the Alabama Department of Transportation. “The concrete there is cracked,” Harrison said. “It would be $200 or 300,000 to replace from curb to curb. So we looked at a hybrid.” Harrison explained that the concrete was mostly cracked in the travel lanes and not the parking areas. He said that by just removing the concrete in that area covering all of it with asphalt would be a better option when related to costs. “The total for improvements and contingency would be $75,000,” Harrison said. “I would also like to add $10,000 in for geotechnical testing so that we know what we are dealing with beneath the concrete first.” That $75,000 includes repaving the Tallassee Street portion of the courthouse square but is something Smith and other council members want to look at. “There is going to be a lot of work done with this project,” Smith said. “This is going to be the first thing people see and we want it to look good.” Smith wanted to table the discussion until Council Member Roy Mathis made it back. Smith also assured the council and Dadeville residents that they are not just letting the fire burn at Mott’s Woodyard. “They are finishing up this section of the project,” Smith said. “We are trying to get ahold of them to clean up over there. It is still smoldering even with the rain as the mulch is still going through a heat. We do not want the contractor to leave the city with a mess over there.” Dadeville Fire Chief Keith Wilkerson reported that he has not been able to get in touch of the contractor on that part of the project recently. City Clerk Mike Gardner updated the council on the demolition project. “We are waiting on letters to go to property owners,” Gardner said. “They
should have gone out by now.” With the purchase of the Dadeville Quick Stop by a new owner, the council was presented with a request to transfer the offsite retail beer and table wine license. “We have to give them a try unless, they have a bad name or something,” Harrelson said. The move was approved unanimously. Harrelson also wanted to asked the council if they had a problem with him seeking to help six residents get water. The residents live on the other side of the railroad in the city limits. To get Dadeville water would require a $100,000 cost to bore under the railroad. The Jacksons Gap Water Authority has lines nearby that Harrelson wants to see if the residents can tap into. Teneeshia Goodman-Johnson asked for the police and fire departments along with building inspector Michael Richardson to look into a Woodyard Street business. “It’s just junky over there,” Johnson said. “There is also a lot of burning going on.” Richardson reported to the council that he had received a response from one of the property owners that he sent letters to inquiring about the parking lots of property they own. “I have heard back from the property owner at Fred’s,” Richardson said. “They are planning to resurface their lot in the first quarter of the year. I did not hear back from the owner’s of the property where the Dollar General is at.” Dadeville Police Chief David Barbour was happy to report that a tire dump on East South Street was cleaned up. Smith wanted to remind residents to take care of the pets as another citizen reported that some of his cats had been killed by a pack of dogs running in the neighborhood. The Dadeville City Council also: • approved minutes from the last meeting. • approved a recreation center rental. The next meeting of the Dadeville City Council will be Jan. 10 at 6 p.m. There will be a pre-meeting at 5:30 p.m.
CATHY HIGGINS SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
sports@alexcityoutlook.com
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Wednesday, December 29, 2016
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JOE MCADORY Sports Columnist
Tigers-Sooners Sugar Bowl harkens memories of great 2004 debate
I
can’t say that Auburn would have beaten Southern Cal for the BCS National Championship in 2004. The frighteningly loaded Trojans had already beaten the Tigers in each of the two seasons before and went on to demolish Oklahoma 55-19 in the BCS championship game. But I also can’t say that Auburn shouldn’t have been given the opportunity to play Southern Cal instead of Oklahoma. The argument’s been made over and over again since the Sooners were given the championship game Orange Bowl invite over the Tigers, who were sent to New Orleans. The BCS formula was flawed then and the SEC champions’ snub probably helped kick-start the creation of the playoff we have today (but even that’s flawed to some degree). Both the Tigers and Sooners were undefeated champions of major conferences. Oklahoma began the season ranked very high. Auburn, based on a poor showing in 2003, did not. Oklahoma did nothing to warrant falling in the polls, though the Tigers were nipping on the heels badly that November. The Tigers would hold a comfortable lead, play conservatively in the second half, run the clock and get out with the W, rinse and repeat. Head-to-head, I believe Auburn would have beaten Oklahoma, but not easily. Adrian Peterson would have been the best running back Tommy Tuberville’s defense would have seen that season. But man, that was a defense that allowed an average of 11 points per game and beat five Top 15 teams. Speaking of playing five Top 15 teams, wasn’t it Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops, obviously speaking out in defense of his team’s No. 2 ranking, who freakishly chided the Tigers’ alleged weak schedule? OK, Bob, Auburn played The Citadel. So what. Any other 1-AA team, and all 1-A teams (OK, maybe not Southern Cal), would have left Jordan-Hare Stadium with a loss that season. For what it’s worth, Oklahoma played two Top 15 teams in 2004, including the No. 1 Trojans. Oklahoma also played Bowling Green. So here we have it, 12 years later. The Tigers and Sooners meet in a game to decide who should have played Southern Cal, which ultimately wound up in NCAA jail and vacated the title. OK, OK, by no means does this game have any bearing on 2004. But that season and the BCS controversy surrounding it will no doubt make headlines again somewhere, or folks will bring it up. An Auburn win could bring some comfort to those who felt slighted years ago and give this program a shot of momentum headed into the offseason. Momentum is great, but only if it is sustained the next fall. If Auburn loses, folks should shrug their shoulders, be happy the team somehow made it to the Sugar Bowl after so-so preseason expectations, and hang their hats on what could be a promising 2017. Oklahoma is favored and probably should win as it possesses the greatest offensive firepower Auburn’s defense will have seen all season. Plus, the terms “success” and “Auburn offense” have not been used in the same sentence since the Tigers won at Ole Miss on Oct. 29. But … that was the night quarterback Sean White injured his shoulder. He’s all healed up, right? And so is tailback Kamryn Pettway, right? If Auburn returns to the form it exhibited in October, things will get downright interesting in New Orleans on Monday night. Joe McAdory is communications editor at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business.
Wildcats defeat Elmore County Lake Martin Slam Fest opens at Benjamin Russell By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor
In the first day of Lake Martin Slam Fest, host team Benjamin Russell defeated Elmore County 69-36. It was a game that belonged to the tournament-hosting Wildcats from the start as Ben Russell started the contest by putting 20 points down in the first quarter and followed it up with 24 more by the half while Elmore County had eked out 11 and 12 points. Benjamin Russell’s lead only expanded in the second half as the Wildcats added 20 more points in the third quarter while Elmore County added 11. The game’s momentum slowed in the fourth with the Wildcats only adding five more points and the Panthers adding two. But when all was said and done, the Wildcats’ win was sealed. Leading the Wildcats in the win was Benjamin Russell senior small guard Shannon Woody with 16 points. He had help from senior small guard Timmy Lawson with 11. Benjamin Russell varsity boys basketball head coach Jeff Hines was understandably pleased with his team’s performance. “I thought we played one of our better games,” he said. “I thought we shared the ball extremely well and I thought we did a lot of good things on the defensive end of the floor. I thought our press was very effective.” Hines points out that the win over Elmore County was not an easy one. “That’s a pretty good basketball team,” he said of the Panthers. “They came in here with a winning record. But I think we kind of stymied them with our press, which benefitted us.” As the Wildcats ready for today’s leg of Slam Fest, Hines said there’s still work to do. “We’ve still got to score baskets inside as we get ready to face Stanhope Elmore,” he said.
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
During the opening day of Lake Martin Slam Fest, BRHS senior Ja’Quez Harris looks to pass against Elmore County’s defense.
The contest was the last of four games played Wednesday with winners and losers separated into respective brackets for today’s continued play. Following Wednesday’s win Benjamin Russell moves on to play Stanhope Elmore at 6 p.m. in winner’s Bracket Game 8. Following Wednesday’s loss, Elmore County plays Alma Bryant at 2 p.m. today in Consolation Bracket Game 6.
TODAY Game 5: Dadeville vs Tallassee, Consolation Bracket, noon Game 6: Alma Bryant vs Elmore County, Consolation Bracket 2 p.m. Game 7: Reeltown vs Jackson, Winner’s Bracket, 4 p.m. Game 8: Benjamin Russell vs Stanhope Elmore, Winner’s Bracket 6 p.m.
Cougars come from behind for 67-37 win over Shelby County By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor
Cathy Higgins / The Outlook
Central Coosa sophomore guard Omar Gaddisfights for control of the ball at Benjamin Russell earlier in the season. The Cougars are playing in the Talladega Christmas Round-Robin basketball tournament this week.
The Central Coosa varsity boys are making the most of their time at the Talladega Round-Robin basketball tournament this week as the Cougars defeated Shelby County on Tuesday by a score of 67-37. Leading the Cougars in the win was senior forward Tyius Evans with 16 points. He had help from senior forward Jevon McKinney with 15, senior guard Tyus Maxwell with 14 and sophomore guard Omar Gaddis, who had 12. The Cougars pulled out the win after trailing 20-8 in the first quarter. “We had to make some adjustments in the second quarter,” said Central Coosa varsity boys basketball head coach Shane Smith. “Josh McGhee came off the bench and gave us a huge spark defensively. That changed the game.” That change saw the rest of the Cougars pitch in to shift the contest’s
momentum in their favor. “The rest of the team stepped it up and we caught them at halftime up 26-23,” Smith said. Central Coosa came back from the half determined to maintain control over Shelby County. “The third quarter was our best quarter this year,” Smith said. “We outscored them 33-6 all because of effort. My kids played their tails off in the third.” Smith was extremely pleased with the outcome of Tuesday’s win over Shelby County. “I am so proud of these kids,” the coach said. “We played as a team and together. I just love this team.” The win comes on the heels of Central Coosa’s Monday 66-61 triumph over Talladega County Central and brings the Cougars’ season record to 6-5 overall and 2-0 in the region. The Cougars were set to go for a tourney sweep Wednesday with a match up against Talladega.
UPCOMING SPORTS EVENTS Today • BRHS varsity wrestling at Smiths Station, 9 a.m.-noon.
Today-Friday, Dec. 30 • Lake Martin Slam Fest at Benjamin Russell gymnasium with varsity boys basketball teams from Reeltown, Tallassee, Dadeville, Stanhope Elmore, Alma Bryant, Elmore County, BRHS and Jackson, times TBA.
boys 4:30 p.m, varsity girls 6 p.m., varsity boys, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3 • Reeltown junior high girls, boys basket• Dadeville varsity basketball home ball at Beulah, 4 p.m. game against Elmore County, girls 5:30 p.m., boys, 7 p.m. • Central Coosa varsity basketball at Friday, Jan. 6 Clay Central, girls 5:30 p.m., boys 7 p.m. • Central Coosa JV boys, varsity girls/ boys basketball at B.B. Comer, 5 p.m. • Reeltown varsity basketball home game Thursday, Jan. 5 • BRHS wrestling at Chelsea, time TBA. against Horseshoe Bend, girls 5 p.m., boys • Dadeville basketball at Tallassee, JV 6 p.m.
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The Outlook
LAKE MARTIN SLAM FEST
Thursday, December 29, 2016
BRHS’ JaQuerrius Hunter, above left, drives to the basket against Elmore County’s Cody Watson. Top right, Reeltown’s Latrevien O’neal and Eric Shaw celebrate a win as Dadeville’s Kevin Walker leaves the court, above right, O’neal drives the lane against the Tigers.
Images from Benjamin Russell High Schools annual holiday basketball tournament
Dadeville’s Donquavious Tucker, left, looks to the basket against the Rebels. Above, Tallassee tries to control a loose ball against Jackson. Below, Reeltown’s Eric Shaw takes a finger to the eye while driving the lane against the Tigers.
Photos by Cliff Williams
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