Issuu

COMMUNITY COLUMNISTS INSIDE! THE

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

PLUNGE, PAGE 6

January 17, 2018 Vol. 126, No. 12 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢

Catch images from Saturday’s Polar Plunge.

SPORTS, PAGE 12 Little takes on challenge of motocross at age 55 INFORMATION WINTER WEATHER PHONE LIST LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCIES n If you are in danger and need immediate assistance from law enforcement or fire personnel dial 9-1-1.

WEATHER AND EMA INFO n For information on weather including the latest warnings and alerts as well as information from the Tallapoosa County EMA on shelters and other developments call 2-1-1.

POWER OUTAGES n If you lose power and are served by the City of Alexander City you are asked to call Alexander Light and Power at 256-409-2080. n If you are an Alabama Power customer and experience a power outage, to report your issue, you are asked to call 1-800-888-2726. Outages can also be reported online at https:// customerservice.southerncompany.com n If your power provider is Tallapoosa River Electric Cooperative, you can report an outage by calling 1-877-4568732.

CLOSURES ALEXANDER CITY SCHOOLS

n Alexander City Schools announced that classes will be canceled today. A decision regarding Thursday’s schedule will be made no later than 6 p.m. today. Plans are to announce news via schoolcast and on the system's social media platforms.

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY SCHOOLS

n Classes in all Tallapoosa County Schools have been postponed for Wednesday. As of presstime, classes are scheduled to resume at regular time Thursday morning.

COOSA COUNTY SCHOOLS

n Classes in all Coosa County Schools have been postponed for Wednesday. As of presstime, classes are scheduled to resume at regular time Thursday morning.

ALEXANDER CITY CITY HALL

n A decision had not been made on an opening time for Alexander City Hall today. Plans are to open as soon as weather permits. Call ahead to check the status of city hall by calling 256-329-6700.

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY COURTHOUSE

n County officials planned evaluate weather and the roads Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning on if or when to open the courthouse Wednesday, according to County Administrator Blake Beck.

WEDNESDAY

Officials wrestle with weather By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Council, school board postpone meetings until Thursday

In anticipation of the winter weather arriving in the area, the Alexander City Public Works Department spent Tuesday taking precautions to help other departments and warning citizens to stay off the roadways. “We know the roads are going to be impassable at some point,” Public Works Director Gerard Brewer said. “We are not going to be able to do much at that point. The precipitation we get will likely freeze on the roads.” Other than that it was a waiting game. Both Alexander City and Tallapoosa County schools dismissed early Tuesday to get students and staff home before roads got bad. Alexander City, Tallapoosa County and Coosa County schools are closed again today. “All students delivered safely with no problems,” Alexander City Schools Superintendent Darrell Cooper said. “Schools will be closed Wednesday. A decision regarding Thursday will be made no later than 6 p.m. Wednesday.” By early Tuesday afternoon the winter storm was already

STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

As a winter storm front moved towards Tallapoosa County, the Alexander City City Council and the Alexander City School Board postponed meetings set for Tuesday evening and rescheduled them on Thursday. The city council will meet at 5 p.m. on Thursday in the upstairs courtroom at the Mitch Sneed / The Outlook Alexander City Public Safety Building at 1 Court Above, a road Square downtown. crew from TallThe council will apoosa County consider a resolution District 3 throws authorizing Mayor Jim sand and light Nabors to enter into an gravel along agreement with ALDOT the surface of for funds through the a bridge on Alabama Transportation Main Street in Rehabilitation and Jacksons Gap. Improvement Program. The grant funds that come Plans were to with a city match will be do the same to several bridges used to replace a bridge to increase trac- on Sportplex Blvd. inside tion once snow the city’s largest park. The bridge was part began to fall. of the park’s original Left, the rush construct, is not as wide to pick up stuas the road leading up to it dents happened and is not rated for traffic early as the day like buses that often travel ended at 2 p.m. through the park. Tuesday. See MEETINGS • Page 3 Cliff Williams / The Outlook

See WEATHER • Page 3

Community Action Committee donates food to Crisis Center

Coosa escapee’s case bound over to grand jury By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

In the weeks leading up to the Christmas season, the Community Action Committee of Chambers, Tallapoosa and Coosa Counties came together and took donations with which to purchase food for the Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Center. With this effort, the committee was able to gather up 310 pounds of food for the center, just in time for the holidays. “We do a needs assessment survey every year,” Community Action Committee Executive Director David Boleware. “We send out several See FOOD • Page 9

Submitted / The Outlook

Community Action Committee Executive Director David Boleware and Mike Tucker from the Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Center collect money allowing the committee to purchase 310 pounds of food for the center.

See COURT • Page 3

Today’s

Lake Martin

utt ou rko Dit ch the Wo rk Best Rates In Town!

The Coosa County Jail escapee that led law enforcement on a two-day search while committing a string of offenses over three counties and a state line, waived his bond hearing in Elmore County court. Shane Vernon, 28, was not in Elmore County Judicial Complex Courtroom 4 of District Judge Glenn Goggans Vernon Thursday. It was his scheduled bond hearing on roughly nine criminal charges that court records show were waived over

Weather

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Anger explodes in words, deeds woman later regrets

Thursday

43 23 Low

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Friday

51 32 Low

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Staff

Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Amy Passaretti Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, Ext. 228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com

Postal

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

Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com Santana Wood Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 santana.wood@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Retail Sales Manager, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Digital Marketing Coordinator, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Rebecca Carlisle Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 rebecca.carlisle@alexcityoutlook.com Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com

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

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

How to Submit Obituaries

part of any issue requires written publisher permission.

Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by e-mail at obits@alexcityoutlook.com For more information, call (256) 234-4281.

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DEAR ABBY: I am 28 and I’m disgusted with myself about how I talk to my mother when I’m stressed out. I know it’s not her. It’s me. My other issue is road rage. When I’m behind the wheel and the cars ahead of me are going too slow or the drivers make stupid moves, I’m annoyed to the point that I sometimes take risky chances to get away from them. I know it puts my life and the lives of others at risk, and I don’t want to be like this. I sometimes wonder why my parents didn’t teach me ways to tone down my anger when I was younger. I’m lucky they still love me, even when I snap at them. Do you have any tips on how to control my temper? -SIMMERING IN SUBURBIA DEAR SIMMERING: If you think you are alone in having these issues, you are mistaken. We are living in increasingly stressful times that have affected most of us in one way or another. If, however, you continue allowing your stress to dictate your behavior, it may eventually drive a wedge between you and the people you care about.

DEAR ABBY Advice

It’s important that you realize anger is a normal emotion. At one time or another, anger is experienced by everyone. Recognizing what is CAUSING your stress and anger can help you to avoid taking it out on others. It takes self-control -- and maturity -- to react calmly, instead of reacting angrily. Being able to identify what’s triggering the anger and causing you to verbalize it can help to prevent an outburst. Instead say, “When you do or say that, it makes me angry.” Or try saying, “Mom, I’m stressed right now. Can we discuss this later?” Or, “I’ve had a really rough day. I need to be alone for a little while.” Then go for a walk to help you to regain your perspective. Developing the ability to do this will not only lessen your guilt, but also earn you the respect of those

with whom you interact. My Anger Booklet contains many suggestions for managing and constructively expressing anger in various situations. It can be ordered by sending your name and mailing address, plus a check or money order for $7 in U.S. funds to Dear Abby -Anger Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. Shipping and handling are included in the price. As to your “over the top” reactions when you are in your car driving, try to remember that we are all human and make mistakes. I have made them, and so have you. If you MUST drive during rush hours, try listening to music or an audio book. And count to 10 before you hit the accelerator. Avoid blasting the horn or making rude gestures. (Screaming is permissible as long as your windows are closed.) People who lose control not only can get hurt in a variety of ways, but also hurt others -including innocent bystanders. That’s why it is very important to be able to express anger in healthy ways.

We are living in a time when the anger level in our society has reached new heights. As we have seen all too often in news reports, explosive anger is the most dangerous of all. Perhaps constructive anger management should be taught in schools to help people more effectively communicate in a healthy manner.

Mr. Keith Edison Haggerty 1960 - 2018

to 11:00 a.m. at Flint Hill United Methodist Church. Mr. Haggerty will lie in state for one hour prior to the service. The family will accept flowers or memorial contributions may be made to Flint Hill United Methodist Church, 2858 Flint Hill Road, Alexander City, Al, 35010. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www. radneyfuneralhome.com.

DEAR ABBY: I’ve been seeking the answer to this for years. My husband is deceased. Am I still related to his family? How do I introduce them? -- IN LIMBO IN PENNSYLVANIA DEAR IN LIMBO: You are as related to them as you WANT to be. Introduce them by their names or as your former in-laws. 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.

Obituaries Roscoe N Slagle III Roscoe N Slagle III of Alex City passed away on Jan. 15, 2018 at the age of 69 at Russell Medical Center. Roscoe, AKA Redo was an avid Bama fan. He loved sports, in fact he was one of the best coaches in football, baseball and life challenges in this area. He was admired

by many. He leaves behind two sons Keith and Corey Slagle, grandchildren Abby, Shay and Jacob Slagle and partner Susan Slagle. There will be a private service held with family members in attendance only. He believed in his teams he coached and he believed in Bama. Roll Tide Roll.

Mr. Roger Glenn Reaves Funeral service for Mr. Roger Glenn Reaves will be 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 18, 2018 at Wright’s Funeral Home Chapel with burial following in Mt. Zion Church Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, January 17, 2018 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Wright’s Funeral Home.

Funeral Service for Mr. Keith Edison Haggerty, 57, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Friday, January 19, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Flint Hill United Methodist Church. Rev. John Hill and Rev. Mike Jackson will officiate. Burial will follow in Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Friday, January 19, 2018 from 10:00 a.m.

Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Mr. Freddie Ford Mr. Freddie Ford of Jackson’s Gap, Alabama pass Monday, January 15, 2018 at his residence. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by Wright’s Funeral Home.

Police Reports Alexander City Police Department January 15

• Kevin Louis Lee, 49, of Dadeville was arrested for driving under the influence of combined substances, possession of synthetic narcotics and drug paraphernalia. • Two counts of domestic violence was reported on Boyd Street. • Domestic violence was reported on J Street. • Reckless endangerment was reported on Highway 280. • Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City. • Driving under the influence of combined substances and possession of a controlled substance was reported on Highway 280. • Fraudulent use of credit/debit card was reported in Alexander City.

January 14

• Hogan Richard Meadows, 18, of Alexander City was for possession of marijuana and public intoxication. • Possession of marijuana and public intoxication was reported on Highway 280. • Criminal mischief was reported on Dadeville Road. • Theft was reported on

Houston Street. • A house fire was reported on Robinson Road.

January 13

• John Eric Vickers, 27, of Alexander City was arrested for domestic violence. • Stevan Lyron Jackson, 36, of Alexander City was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. • Dornelius Dennis IV, 21, of New Orleans was arrested for possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia. • Dexter Bernard Averiette Jr., 20, of Sylacauga was arrested for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Ralph Napoleon Pitts, 20, of Vacaville, California was arrested for possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Jacario Montez Kelly, 29, of Goodwater was arrested for possession of controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. • Andrea Nicole Berry, 26, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and simple assault. • Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City. • Possession of a

forged instrument was reported on Court Square. • Theft was reported on Highway 63. • Domestic violence was J Street. • Theft was reported on O Street. • Domestic violence was reported 12th Avenue. • Criminal mischief and disorderly conduct were reported on Highway 280. • Possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia were reported on Highway 280. • Harassment was reported on Sunny Level Cutoff. • Domestic violence was reported on J Street. • Theft was reported on Highway 280.

January 12

• Kevin Wayne Adair, 43, of Alexander City was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. • David Ryan Harris, 25, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of a controlled substance. • Kaitlynn ElizabethPearl Thomas, 20, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of a controlled substance • John Thomas Walker Jr., 65, of Jacksons Gap was arrested for public intoxication. • Casey Hugh Barnett, 31, of Sylacauga was

arrested for bail jumping. • Domestic violence was reported on Cotton Lane. • Harassing communications was reported on Highway 280. • Possession of a controlled substance was reported on Highway 63 South. • Domestic violence was reported on 10th Avenue. • Public intoxication was reported on Court Square. • Fraudulent use of a credit/debit card and theft was reported on Houston Street. • Menacing was reported on Jefferson Street.

Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department January 15

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

January 13

• A resident of Winding Road in Dadeville filed a report for theft. • A resident of Win Blu Drive in Dadeville filed a report for suspicious activity. • Jeremy Goodwin of Pearson Chapel Road in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear child support.

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Meetings

The Outlook

continued from page 1

The council is also expected to consider a resolution that would set the wheels in motion to apply for grant funds from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program to help purchase selfcontained breathing apparatuses for use by the Alexander City Fire Department. Monday the Alexander City School system made the decision to dismiss at 2 p.m. and cancel all afterschool events. This included the regularly scheduled Alexander City Board of Education meeting that was set for 5 p.m. in the Benjamin Russell auditorium. Tuesday morning, Executive Superintendent Jackie Brewer announced that the meeting had been moved to Thursday morning at 7 a.m. As a result of this change, the meeting has changed venues from Benjamin Russell to the Board of Education offices, and the planned agenda was revised, with some items being moved to the February meeting. A special presentation from students at Benjamin Russell was moved from January to February, as was a moment of recognition for the high school students who recently competed in the Alabama Microsoft Office Specialist Championship. The board will still go over many of its traditional topics, including the monthly financial reports, personnel items and field trip requests. The tentative agenda also shows the board will begin reviewing the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 school year calendars, as well as taking new action on the child nutrition food service management contract with Southwest Foodservice Excellence. “All of this is dependent on the weather, of course,” Brewer said.

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Weather causing icing on bridges in Northwest Alabama and snow was starting to enter the Birmingham area. The National Weather Service is predicting the area will not see temperatures above freezing until Thursday. That means any snow, sleep or freezing rain will hang around for a while. Tallapoosa County Commissioners had their road crews strategically locating equipment and late in the day they were putting sand and light gravel on bridges across the county. “We tried to get some grit on the bridges in our district,” Commissioner John McKelvey said. “That will help, depending on exactly what kind and how much frozen stuff we actually get.” As of 5 p.m., there was still no rain or snow falling in Tallapoosa County. Brewer said his department did what it could with limited resources. “We have sand loaded on a truck,” Brewer said. “We will put it out where we can but sand does no good on top of the ice.” Brewer explained the city does not have much salt. “We have a little bit of salt,” Brewer said.

Page 3

continued from page 1

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Alexander City Public Works has sand loaded on a truck to apply to troublesome spots on roadways in Alexander City should the need arise.

“We will likely put it out around city hall.” Brewer said Tuesday afternoon many of the public works employees were being sent home but they would help where they could. “We will help the police and fire departments where we can,” Brewer said. “We will also help light and power. We will remove trees from roadways when we can.” Alexander City Public Works sent at a notice Tuesday afternoon to encourage residents to stay put. “We anticipate that city streets will become

Court to the next Elmore Grand Jury session. The charges consist of three counts of first-degree burglary, one first-degree kidnapping, two counts of second-degree theft of property and three counts of unlawful imprisonment. The bond amount totaled from all the charges doled out by Goggans was roughly $6.23 million. Assistant District Attorney CJ Robinson said the day prior to the hearing Vernon spoke with his attorney. Court records show he was appointed Wetumpka criminal defense lawyer Desirae Lewis after his Dec. 4 arrest. An attempt to contact Lewis was unsuccessful. Vernon has numerous charges of a similar nature

impassable tonight,” the statement said. “The National Weather Service is predicting frozen precipitation for our area. Temperatures are not expected to rise above freezing until 11 a.m. on Thursday. If precipitation occurs as expected, we strongly recommend that everyone avoid travel during this timeframe. If travel is absolutely necessary at any time when icy conditions are present, travel at a much slower speed, use caution, and be prepared for the possibility of becoming stranded by carrying water, food, blankets, etc.” Tallapoosa County

EMA Director Jason Moran said county officials would monitor things overnight and have not made a decision about roads. “We will evaluate things throughout the night,” Moran said. “But no call has been made about the roads yet.” Moran said a plan was in place for those who might need a warming center. “We have a contingency for that,” Moran said. “We have places in Dadeville and Alexander City available to us. If it is needed, they can call 911 and we will

continued from page 1

pending in courts of Coosa County and others of a lesser nature reported in DeKalb County, Georgia. “He may very well be indicted on some federal charges. He’s got a lot of trouble he’s got to sort through,” said Robinson. Vernon’s court records show Kellyton as his last residence. Asked about any motive they might know of for Vernon’s escape both Robinson and District Attorney Randall Houston as they left the courtroom answered. “I just think desperate men do desperate things,” Robinson said. Houston had a different response. “I think stupid people do stupid things.”

MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213

editor@alexcityoutlook.com

EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Page 4

Opinion

Our View

Be prepared for what Mother Nature brings

tories published in the last few editions of The Outlook should serve as reminders that there is no way to predict what Mother Nature has in store for us. From another major threat of winter weather to the reported sighting of a mountain lion near downtown Alexander City, it seems we never really know what is waiting for us on any given day. After the hit our area took back in December from a freak early snow storm, maybe it’s just that we are still a little more aware when the forecast called for more of the frozen stuff this time around. Schools made the decision on Monday to dismiss students early in hopes of getting them all home before the worst of the weather came our way. In Tallapoosa County they took the extra precaution of closing schools today as well. Alexander City Schools were planning to open about three hours late today, depending on how bad the weather turned out to be. They left themselves some wiggle room to cancel classes if the roads made that the right decision. As of Tuesday afternoon, it appeared that local folks were taking the threat seriously and that city, county and state leaders were prepared. Now winter weather and mountain lions may not seem like two things that belong in the same category, but in reality they do. While wildlife biologists point out that no confirmed sighting of cougars or mountain lions have come since 1946, there is no question that Ellen Dean saw some sort of big cat outside her home on LaFayette Street Sunday morning. There have been sightings in Tennessee, Missouri and folks tell us residents in Florida and on the coastal islands of South Carolina often spot the same kind of big cat that Dean described so vividly. So how do the two fit together? Whether it’s a winter storm approaching or simply walking out your back door, these stories serve as reminders that we all need to be aware of our surroundings, pay attention to reports, weather forecasts and the possibilities that could come our way. They show that we should always be prepared for what Mother Nature may send our way.

Know Your

Officials

T.C. Coley represents District 1, including half of Coley Creek, the Andrew Jackson subdivision, the southern part of Indian Hill, North Central Avenue, part of Pearson’s Chapel Road, the Northside community and portion of Spring Hill T.C. Coley community. His phone number is 256-212-9316. His address is 2316 North Central Avenue, Kellyton. Steve Robinson represents District 2, which includes the southern part of Alexander City, the Cedar Creek area, Ourtown and Willow Point. His phone number is 256-654-0047. His address is 300 Heritage Drive Alexander Steve Robinson City. John McKelvey represents District 3, which includes Jackson’s Gap, Hackneyville, New Site and Daviston. McKelvey currently serves as chairman. His phone number is 256-794-4405. His address is 1285 Freeman John McKelvey Road, Dadeville. Emma Jean Thweatt represents District 4, which includes Dadeville, Pace’s Point, northern Camp Hill, Buttston, Dudleyville and part of Eagle Creek. She can be reached at 8254207. Her address is 585 Brookwood Circle, Dadeville.

Emma Jean Thweatt

George Carleton Jr. represents District 5, which includes southern Camp Hill, Red Ridge, Walnut Hill, Union and Pleasant Ridge. His address is 630 Turner Road Road, Dadeville.

George Carleton Jr.

Outlook The

Wednesday,January 17, 2018

Hawaii endures 38-minute nuclear nightmare

awaii is said to be the jewel of the Pacific. But on Saturday morning, the island paradise became the world’s center of terror. At 8:07 local time in Hawaii, thousand of islanders – accustomed to the laid-back atmosphere of the island and ready to bask in a weekend of surf and mai tais – received the a text message that read, “BALLISTIC MISSILE THREAT INBOUND TO HAWAII. SEEK IMMEDIATE SHELTER. THIS IS NOT A DRILL.” And, with that, hearts – if hearts can – at once stopped and began to pound. People began to wonder, “Shelter? What shelter? Where exactly do you go to protect yourself from nuclear attack?” Some of the older set probably wondered if there were any of the old Civil Defense bomb shelters still in existence or whether their best bet was to follow the advice of Bert the Turtle from the old Civil Defense films shown in cold-war classrooms and simply “duck and cover.” Television clips shown later shot from tower cams showed Hawaiians running in the street, doubtless not sure where exactly they were going. The terror lasted as long as 38 minutes for some, when the Hawaii emergency alert system

DAVID GRANGER Columnist

finally sent out a text saying the previous message was in error. Others found out more quickly, thanks largely to the efforts of Hawaii’s Sen. Tulsi Gabbard, who, immediately upon seeing the text other Hawaiians saw, began to check out its veracity and, when discovering the error, began to use all methods at her disposal to let her state’s citizens know the truth. As for the emergency alert system, its performance wasn’t very heartening when it took 38 minutes to issue the correction and takes only an estimated 15 for such a missile to travel from North Korea, the likely suspect due to the recent Twitter war between Donald Trump and Kim Jong Un. Still, to my mind, of all those involved with the Hawaii Emergency Agency, its administrator stood tallest. Vern Miyagi accepted total responsibility without even being asked. But when asked if he was there when the event occurred, Miyagi said, “No.” Wasn’t there, didn’t see it, had no way of knowing how it

occurred, but Miyagi stepped up and took total responsibility. If only our government was full of such men. Finally, after the incident, I began to wonder what do you do after a nuclear attack these days? Is it even survivable? Global politics are far from stable, and human nature has changed none in the last two decades. “The most persistent sound which reverberates through man’s history is the beating of war drums,” according to Hungarian novelist Arthur Koestler. Well, the survivability of such an attack is debatable and may depend on how many missiles are launched. Remember, today’s missiles are far more powerful than those the U.S. dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki and it is likely that any nuclear attack would include multiple missiles. Hopefully, the nuclear nightmare is one that none of us will ever have to face. On Saturday, our brothers and sisters in Hawaii briefly did. And their experience at 8:07 a.m. local time is as close as anyone should ever come to what they were led to believe was reality. David Granger is the managing editor of the Tallapoosa Publishers newspapers in Elmore County.

Today’s

Quote

“A happy life is one spent in learning, earning, and yearning.” – Lillian Gish

Today’s

Scripture

“Live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.” – Galatians 5:16

alexcityoutlook.com

Daily Poll Tuesday Question: Are you looking forward to the chance of snow?

Yes – 15 No – 16

Wednesday’s question: Do you trust broadcast weather forecasting?

To participate in this daily poll, log on each day to www.alexcityoutlook.com and vote. Find out the vote totals in the next edition of The Outlook and see if your vote swayed the results.

Our

Mission

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.

How to

A special day at the home place

’ve never claimed to be Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor. In fact, I’d say I’m more Rip Taylor than Tim Taylor, without the confetti and bad toupee, of course. I may not be much of a tool man, but that doesn’t stop me from trying. Trial, error and Google have enabled me to do a number of things. A few weeks ago, a storm blew through the home place in Tallapoosa County. With it came heavy rains and strong winds. At least I assume it did. I took some sleep aid and slept right through it. I was a bit under the weather and stayed up there so I wouldn’t risk getting the baby sick. Either way, I know, as the grandparents would have said, “It came up a cloud,” and damaged the roof of the barn. After that came the chaos of the holidays, along with the extreme cold weather. Simply put, it was a while before I got around to putting on my tool belt. When I finally got it on, I went to work. Well, I tried to anyway. Olin, a lifelong family friend, stopped by and chatted me up for about an hour, and I enjoyed every second. He literally just stopped in the middle of the road and turned off his truck. Ruby and I just stood there. She took off to explore a couple of times but always came back within a couple of minutes. During our conversation, just one vehicle drove by and it was the rural mail carrier. He didn’t stop. He just kept on going. I sure do like being way out in the country. My dad was literally born at the home place way back in

JODY FULLER Columnist

1945, so it’s special for a lot of reasons. I’m sure he spent a lot of days working in and around the barn. Olin filled me in on a lot of information that I never knew. My dad died when I was eight years old, so I’m always learning new things. He has many more stories to tell, and I can’t wait to hear them. I finally climbed to the roof of the barn. I could have scaled my way up the wall, but I was trying to be safe and took the ladder. Ruby stayed with me the whole time. She legitimately seemed concerned. I should have never tackled this task on my own, but Ruby is smarter than Lassie ever was, so I’m sure she would’ve taken off up the road to tell mama-n-em had I experienced any misfortune. Luckily, the only misfortune I experienced was a rip in my three-year-old $14 jeans. I need to be more careful with those random nails. Ripped flesh or ripped jeans? I’ll take the latter. I only had to rearrange four long pieces of aluminum, but that was easier said than done. I don’t have a fear of heights; however, I do have a fear of falling through the roof of a dilapidated old barn. I was smart about it and tried to spread my weight out as evenly as possible. After the holidays, there was more weight than I usually carry around, so there was a lot of spreading.

I finally got it done and when I did, I just sat there. I’d never seen the home place from that vantage point. The rest of the family calls it “Terrapin Slide,” because everything always moved so slow around there. I remember riding home from church with Maw-Maw and Paw-Paw in his ‘57 Chevy. It took him 10 minutes to get there. The church is only a mile up the road. I’m only slightly exaggerating. In my mind, I could see the hard work, fun times and love that emanated from the home place. It brought back great memories of those who are no longer with us. I even called up a cousin and talked with him for a spell as I sat atop the roof. What a special moment it was. As I was preparing to climb back down the ladder, I noticed that I hadn’t overlapped the aluminum properly and had to start all over. I didn’t mind. I had time. What should have been an hour-long project turned into an all-day affair. That’s okay though. I had a wonderful time, got the job done, didn’t die, and for what it’s worth, I don’t actually have a tool belt, but that sounded really cool. Maybe one day I’ll get me one, but first, I need to get a new pair of jeans. That’s the only good pair I have. Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier with three tours of duty in Iraq. He is also a lifetime stutterer. He can be reached at jody@ jodyfuller.com. For more information, please visit www. jodyfuller.com

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

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Opinion?

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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Follow The Outlook on the Internet on our website or on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Log on to http://www.alexcityoutloook.com. There you will be able to view stories and multimedia posted by The Outlook. You can also click on the Facebook link to join The Outlook’s fan club or click on the Twitter link to start receiving tweets on your phone as we post updates. You can also subscribe to our RSS (Rich Site Summary) feed on the Outlook’s home page. Check it out today.

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

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Submit calendar items:

Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/.

Today’s Birthdays Adam Blankenship and Calvin Livingston are celebrating their birthdays today.

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Stephens Elementary School fourth grader Bella Westbrook created this wintry image in the art class of Debra Griffith. The National Weather Service predicts the Wednesday weather will be cold with a high of 31 degrees and if any snow fell over night will likely remain on the ground through Thursday.

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TRADE DAY: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends Monthly Trade Day in Millerville on Highway 9 between Ashland and Goodwater will be held on Jan. 20 from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Refreshments are also available. BINGO NIGHT: The Weogufka Center for Arts, Entertainment and Education is hosting a chili supper and bingo night Jan. 20. Supper is from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 and is $5. Bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. with cards starting at $1.

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, January 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 Jan. 8 at 1 p.m. PARENT MEETING: Dadeville High School will be holding its Chromebook Parent Meeting on Monday, Jan. 22 at the Dadeville High School Auditorium beginning at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will go over proper usage of the devices and the Chromebook Use Agreement recently approved by the Tallapoosa County Board of Education. BOARD MEETING: The Lake Martin Area Industrial Development Authority will be having their quarterly board meeting Monday, Jan. 22 beginning at 10 a.m. in the Betty Carol Graham Technology Center located on the campus of Central Alabama Community College. MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION MEETING: The Alexander City Are Ministerial Association will hold its monthly meeting Jan. 22 at 6:30 p.m. The church address is 1098 King Street Alexander City. King Street is off of Highway 63 South heading toward Wind Creek State Park. It is a little less than two miles on the right once you turn off of HIghway 280. Follow King Street all the way to the end and it will bring you directly to the church.

Tuesday, January 23

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP: A new support group for cancer patients and families is starting up to help with support through the process. A kickoff dinner is planned for Jan. 23 at 6 p.m. at the Trinity Campus First United Methodist Church next to Russell Medical. If interested please make reservations by contacting Andrea Peacock by phone at 256-749-1134 or

by email at andreapeacock60@gmail. com. PARENT MEETING: Reeltown High School will be holding its Chromebook Parent Meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 23 at the Reeltown Lunchroom beginning at 6 p.m. The meeting will go over proper usage of the device and the Chromebook Use Agreement recently approved by the Tallapoosa County Board of Education.

Saturday, January 27

FAMILY GAME NIGHT: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have Family Game Night Bingo Saturday, Jan. 27 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. It will begin with hot dogs, pizza, chips and soft drinks.

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. Jan. 8 at 1 p.m.

Wednesday, Janurary 31

GRIEF SHARE: A session of GriefShare will be starting soon at the Trinity Campus of First United Methodisat next to Russell Medical. GriefShare helps those who have experienced the death of a loved one to realize that there is hope amidst the pain and uncertainty of grief. The journey can be made lighter when shared with others who are trained to listen with compassion and are able to provide guidelines on how to move forward. There will be two separate groups meeting at the same location on the same days, one at 10 a.m. and the other at 6 p.m. Both are identical material. Meetings will start Jan. 31 and continue each Wednesday through April 25. The facilitators are Dr. Tomeka McGhee and Patsy Coe Densmore. For more information call 256-2342455 or 256-749-9354.

Saturday, February 3

BOSTON BUTT FUNDRAISER: Meals on Wheels is having a Boston Butt Fundraiser. They are selling tickets for a Feb. 3 delivery of a Firetruck Boston Butt at the Meals on Wheels office at Russell Medical or by calling 256-329-7382. Tickets are $35. BOOK SALE: The Friends of the Dadeville Public Library will host a book sale on the lower level of the Dadeville Library Saturday, Feb. 3 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fill a grocery bag for $5 or three bags for just $15.

Sunday, February 4

PASTOR’S ANNIVERSARY: New Harmony Missionary Baptist Church in Camp Hill is hosting the 9th Pastor’s Anniversary honoring Rev. and Sis. Melvin C. Kelley, Jr. Sunday, Feb. 4 at 2 p.m. The guest minister will be Rev. Ira Moss, pastor of New Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Tuskegee.

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 Jan. 8 at 1 p.m.

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. ENGLISH LEARNER’S CLUB: The Adelia M. Russell Library is hosting the English Learner’s Club starting Wednesday, Feb. 7 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Registration starts Jan. 3. The club will help speakers of other languages learn, develop and improve English skills, learn American slang, idioms and other useful phrases and work on fluency activities and interview questions. For questions and information, call 256-329-6796 or visit the Adelia M. Russell Library.

The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow

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

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Friday, February 9

VALENTINES CELEBRATION:The Equality Performing Arts Center is hosting a Royal Valentine’s Celebration Friday, Feb. 9 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Six past state pageant winners and the reigning Ms. Alabama Sr. America will perform popular love songs, a romantic aria and tap dance. The EPAC is located on Alabama Highway 9 in Equality.

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 Jan. 8 at 1 p.m.

Saturday, February 17

PANCAKE BREAKFAST: The Dadeville Kiwanis Club will be holding its annual pancake breakfast on Saturday, Feb. 17 from 7 until 11 a.m. at the Dadeville Elementary School Cafeteria. Tickets are $6 per person and includes all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, ham, coffee, juice and milk. For tickets, see any member of the Dadeville Kiwanis Club, or contact Tony Johnson at 256-825-6364 or Peggy Bullard at 256-825-9415.

Saturday, February 24

PANCAKE BREAKFAST: There will be a pancake breakfast on Saturday, Feb. 24 at Faith Temple Church Gym at 425 Franklin Street from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tickets are $6 for all you can eat pancakes in house and sausage, juice and coffee. Carroy out is available. This is a fundraiser for the Faith Christian Academy’s Robotics team which will compete in the National WWII Museum’s Robotics Challenge in New Orleans in May. Tickets are available from FCA students and at the door.

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.

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Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Amy Passaretti / The Outlook

Polar Plunge a chilling success

More than 30 people braved the chilly waters of Lake Martin Saturday at the Lake Martin Young Professionals Polar Plunge at Kowaliga. The plunge benefited the Lake Martin Resource Association and attendees were able to warm up with firepits, tents and food from Kowaliga Restaurant. Live music was also available.

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Wednesday, January 17, 2018

The Outlook

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Food thousand assessment forms every year across the three counties we cover. We hand them out to our clients and to nonprofit agencies. Once the deadline has passed and we have all the forms gathered up, the information is then compiled by Auburn University.” Once the committee receives the compiled form data from Auburn, the top three to five items on the list are more carefully examined and a potential program plan is developed for each of the concerns. “We try to address the top issue on the list, but we must also develop our programs to work within our budget,” Boleware said. “We will collaborate with other agencies if we need to.” During the most recent assessment survey, the top issue listed was food concerns, as there are those in the community who are not always able to provide adequate food for themselves and their families. With this in mind, the committee members got to work and developed a plan for giving what assistance they could to those in the community. Two of Boleware’s staff members spearheaded the project, going around to the others in the committee asking for monetary donations in order to purchase food for the crisis center. “All of this stayed within the agency, and it was strictly voluntary,” Boleware said. “We gathered up all the money in about a week’s time.” Boleware said the committee members delivered the 310 pounds of food to the center during the second week of December, just in time for their contribution to be used towards the Christmas dinner offerings the center gave its clientele. Getting their donations

continued from page 1

to the center in time for this left the committee members with a feeling of gratification, knowing they have been able to provide some help for those in need around them, according to Boleware. Along with this donation drive to buy food for the crisis center, the Community Action Committee tackles other issues and concerns facing those in the three counties serviced by the group in an effort to improve the quality of life for the area. These include offering Head Start to preschoolers, conducting energy audits and helping low-income residents weatherize their homes, providing

assistance with utility bills for those on fixed incomes and senior citizens, and reimbursing private daycares for taking care of children from families of lower incomes. Moving forward to the next needs assessment survey, Boleware said he believes the Community Action Committee of Chambers, Tallapoosa and Coosa Counties will possibly have the chance to help the Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Center out with future donations of food for those helped by the center. “This was our first time donating to the crisis center, but it hopefully won’t be the last,” he said.

A REFUGE FOR THE HOMELESS

ADOPTION IS THE BEST OPTION. These darlings are looking for their forever homes.

Visit the website rescuek911. com for more information and to see all the pooches up for adoption Please save the weight circles on the bags of dry dog and cat food and mail to Rescue K911. Moist and Meaty dog food also has weight circles. Drop them off or mail them to Rescue K911 P.O. Box 862 Auburn, AL 36831. They all help & add up fast. Thank you on behalf of the dogs and cats that will beneﬁt from them. This ad is sponsored by Wayside Animal Hospital, Dr. Susan Martin, 256-329-9900. Spay/neuter assistance is available from RESCUE K9-1-1, Wayside Animal Hospital 256-329-9900 or Lake Martin Humane Society 256-234-5533.

Like us on facebook This ad is sponsored by Wayside Animal Hospital, Dr. Susan Martin, 256-329-9900.

Rescue K9-1-1, Inc.

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

www.alexcityoutlook.com

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Is Tuscaloosa the captial of Alabama politics? A while back, during Dr. Robert Bentley’s tenure as governor, I wrote a column entitled, “They May as Well Move the Capitol to Tuscaloosa.” Never before in Alabama history has a city had a sitting governor and the state’s senior U.S. Senator hail from that particular place. Even with the departure of Bentley as governor, the Druid City has an inordinate amount of presence in the state’s political sphere of influence. Senator Richard Shelby is in his 32nd year as our U.S. Senator. With that kind of seniority, comes immense power in Washington. Shelby is Chairman of the Senate Rules Committee and is easily one of the three most powerful U.S. Senators. Secretary of State, John Merrill, is from Tuscaloosa. He served in the Legislature prior to winning statewide office. Scott Donaldson serves on the State Court of Appeals. He was a Circuit Judge in Tuscaloosa prior to his move to the state court. Judge John England currently sits on the Bench as a Tuscaloosa Circuit Judge. He has previously

STEVE FLOWERS Columnist

served on the State Supreme Court. He is one of the most respected men in the state. Judge England’s son, Chris England, has represented Tuscaloosa in the House of Representatives very effectively for 11 years. Chris is not only a stellar legislator; he is a practicing lawyer and an expert on Alabama football, which he grew up watching. Tuscaloosa County Probate Judge Hardy McCollum has been in his office for over 41 years. He is nearing the end of an unprecedented seventh six-year term. That means that Hardy was first elected in 1976. Over the years, he has generally been considered the most popular political figure in Tuscaloosa County. State senator, Gerald Allen, has been representing his native Tuscaloosa County in the state Legislature for 24 years. He served 16 years in the State House prior to his election to the State Senate

eight years ago in 2010. He is considered one of the most conservative members of the State Senate. Some folks believe that this time next year, Tuscaloosa may regain the Governor’s office. Their very popular, 45-year old mayor, Walt Maddox, will likely be the Democratic standard-bearer in the 2018 Governor’s race. Young Mr. Maddox is very popular in his hometown. He has been the historic city’s 36th mayor since 2005, which means he was first elected at the ripe old age of 32. Although not Tuscaloosa’s, there are some influential powers that live nearby and represent them in the Halls of Congress and the State Senate. Congressman Robert Aderholt from Haleyville represents Tuscaloosa as well as outstanding State Senators Greg Reed of Jasper and Bobby Singleton of Greensboro. Lastly but certainly not least, Tuscaloosa lays claim to the most popular and consensus brightest rising star in the Alabama Legislature. State Representative Bill Poole is a crown jewel that Tuscaloosa can be very proud

to call their own. Bill Poole is a lawyer by profession. His utmost priority is his devotion to his wife, Nicole, and his three children, Sally, William, and Whitman. The Pooles are active members of the First Methodist Church of Tuscaloosa. Bill earned his B.S. and Law degrees from the University of Alabama and began his law practice in Tuscaloosa, in 2004. This Republican District 63 encompasses primarily the City and suburbs of Tuscaloosa. Dr. Bentley was the Representative from this District prior to Poole. Tim Parker represented this district prior to Bentley. Poole came to the House with a large group of Republicans in 2010. He immediately became a leader of that group. The entire Legislature quickly recognized his potential. By the end of his first year in 2011, it was evident that Poole was clearly the star of that 34-member class. When you asked every veteran observer of Goat Hill about the class, the first name on the list was Bill Poole. He is liked and respected by members on both sides of the

aisle. In only his second term, he became Chairman of the Ways and Means Education Budget Committee. When Mike Hubbard was removed as Speaker, it was a foregone conclusion that Poole was going to be Speaker. He turned down the post because he wanted to be able to spend time with his young family. At 38 the sky is the limit for Poole. However, folks in Tuscaloosa hope he stays put. For a city that is home to the University of Alabama, having the Chairman of the Education Budget Committee is a pretty good coup. Tuscaloosa was once the Capitol. Some would say essentially it is again. In fact preliminary census estimations project that Tuscaloosa will exceed Montgomery in population by 2030. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers. us

Sr. Valentines Social coming Take precautions with the cold and for animals too

he Alexander City Parks and Recreation 50+ has started off the month with regular on going activities, a Men’s Outing and a Queen’s Lunch Outing, Educational Balance training, Advanced Line Dancing, our first Sr. Cardio Dance Fit class, an Indoor Saturday Yardsale as well as new members that enrolled. If you haven’t hear yet, the Sportplex will be hosting a Valentine’s Day event for Tallapoosa County Senior Citizens. Details to follow in next week’s article. Go ahead and make plans to attend on Wed, Feb. 14 at the Sportplex Gymnasium starting at 11:30 a.m. Judith Jordan’s art students will be meeting during the same time as Open Studio artist on Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. We are looking forward to our guest speaker, Candi Tate for this Wednesday’s Monthly Luncheon. Make sure to remember the 3rd Thursday Bingo fun at 10:30 a.m. sponsored by Lake Martin Hospice. The Quilting Guild will be meeting this coming Saturday morning and again on their regular scheduled time on Monday, Jan. 22 at 2 p.m. Beginner’s Rook also meets next Monday from 12 p.m. till 2 p.m. Health Tip: Wash Your Hands Often

CORLEY HOLT Senior Moments

Doctors call good hand hygiene “the next best thing” after the flu vaccine to prevent the flu. Wash your hands several times a day with soap and warm water. Germs can live on surfaces such as doorknobs, handrails, and countertops for up to two hours, so wash your hands after touching any surface that wasn’t just cleaned. Can’t get to a sink? Carry alcoholbased hand sanitizer everywhere you go. Social Tip: Commit to A Social Hobby The particular hobby or activity can be anything you like that’s social. If you’re having a hard time figuring out what hobby to take on, browse your local meetups to see what groups are already out there and try out one or two that look fun to you. We send out get well wishes to Shirley Coley and Brenda Burnette. Until next time keep a smile on your face and love in your heart. Holt writes about the events and people of the Alexander City Parks and Recreation Department’s 50+ program.

MITCHELL & COMPANY

old and more freezing weather coming, plus a winter storm warning for this week. If you don’t have to get out, it is safer to stay home. Especially since the flu and heavy chest colds are affecting so many and those germs spread quickly. I just cannot see ‘Global Warming.’ Our last two winters have been extremely cold. I do agree with scientists when they declare we are just having the ‘normal cycles of weather’ that have come about since the beginning. I remember learning about the Ice age, a catastrophic weather event from way back. Testing deep into the earth’s core, they have learned much about the extremes that affected those before us. Some almost wiped people out. I felt sorry to learn about comic columnist Jody Fuller running out of LP gas with his young baby to keep warm, and his gas company being closed. We found the best service, after trying many, came from Area Propane. If we are down at the bottom of the gas-tank, they will deliver that same day and no extra fees. Great service keeps us with them. It’s amazing how

ROSIE MORGAN Nixburg/ Equality

quickly you burn the gas when the temperatures stay below freezing for many days in a row. Nathan Lee Friday had a birthday yesterday. Nate turned five years old. Trista Grier Waters of Equality celebrated hers Jan. 19, sharing that date with the great General Robert E. Lee, head of the Confederate Army. Forest Meigs’ day is the 20th, and Kathi Odom our fashion queen on Jan. 23. Happy Birthday greetings to everyone. Wishing a joyful happy anniversary to Raymon and Sarah Shaw at their Treasure Forest in Rockford. They celebrate on Jan. 25. ‘The Chit-Chatters’ Ladies Luncheon group, lead by sweet Jackie Dean, will meet again Thursday, Jan. 25. So do mark your calendar and join us if you can. We will meet at 11 a.m. this time at the Triple RRR in Rockford. We met there last summer and everyone was very happy with the tasty food served. I can personally vouch for fried chicken on the

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lunch special. The group, open to all ladies, is a wonderful break for those that don’t get out much. You will get to know the friendly ladies, then look forward to it monthly as I do. Rea Cord, Director of the Elmore County Humane Shelter sends out a plea to pet owners. Please bring pets inside during this very cold deepwinter snap. They feel cold like us, and those plastic igloos are not protective or comfortable. The Wetumpka Shelter currently has 240 pets. Every one of them sleeps on a blanket or comforter, thanks to the generosity of many pet-lovers. Mark your calendar for the 8th annual ‘Getting down with the Dawgs,’ coming Saturday, Feb. 17. More details coming next week. The second series of ‘Victoria,’ the Queen of Britain, began on public television Sunday evening. Ron and I just love it. The story being very historically correct, so we learn about life as it was for the young Queen, Prince Albert, and the service workers at the Palace and beyond. Did you know that Queen Victoria lost almost 4,000 soldiers as they left Kabul in the dead of winter in

COOSA VALLEY

Afghanistan? They were picked off one by one during snow, early in her reign, only one survivor, a doctor, made it back to Britain. If the world-wide leaders since then would get into history, they would have learned that no-one can fix things in the Middle East. History seems to go around and come around. When you watch anything that takes place over there, you see the people mostly have been kept in the stone-age, still living in caves. One of Victoria’s gentleman advisors told her that Afghanistan was, “A God-forsaken place.” Congratulations to Jodi McDade with her announcement to run for Commissioner of our District #4 to replace the retiring Paul Perrett. Jodi has a lovely little furry dog and she’s a lovely person too. Stay warm. Remember dressing in snug layers keeps the warmth in, hat and gloves when going outside. Until next week, keep smiling. Rosie Morgan is a community columnist for The Outlook. She is a resident of Nixburg and writes about the events and people of the Equality and

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LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com

Page 11

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

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JUST A LITTLE

CRAZY Despite age, racer excels in vet motocross

From putting around at age 5, Scott Little is racing at age 55 By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

At 51 years old, Scott Little, a StillWaters resident, was searching for something new in his life. Despite his age, Little had always found an interest in motocross and decided to try it out for the first time ever. “When I was real little, I got a Suzuki 50 that could go about 5 miles per hour, and I putted around a little bit, but I never got on one of these highperformance bikes,” Little said. “I was just kinda looking for something in my life, and I ran into some people that were already into motocross, so I tried it out.” He started out on an older model Suzuki RMZ-250 and had different trainers attempting to teach him the sport. At first, it wasn’t easy. “I would crash a lot,” Little said with a laugh. “Also, because of my age, I would get so tired and it would be so hard for me to start my own bike. It takes a lot of power to get that kick started, so I would crash then my trainer would have to crack it up for me then I’d go out on another lap and try it again.” Now, four years later, despite all odds and a few injuries along the way, Little is 55 and has really excelled in the sport. “When I first told my friends about it, I would get comments all the time,

Submitted / The Outlook

Scott Little, of StillWaters, who is currently 55 years old has been racing motocross for the last four years. He is also hoping to give back to youngsters hoping to pick up the sport.

‘Scott, what are you thinking? Are you crazy?’” Little said. “I broke my back last year and tore my rotator cuff, I’ve had six cracked ribs. It’s the most demanding sport, mentally and physically, there is out there. It can be very dangerous, but a lot of it is mind over matter and it’s helped me to overcome some things.”

He currently races in the Southern Hardcore Championship Series, which is a race series with its nucleus in central Alabama but with tracks as far north as Pell City and as far south as just outside the Florida line. Racing in a 50-plus age division, Little has been ranked either second or third on the series all of this past season, despite coming in with just

Remembering the sports figures we lost in 2017 T

he Auburn basketball team got another big win over Mississippi State this weekend and moved to 16-1 on what’s becoming a pretty special season. I actually went to the game in Starkville, Mississippi, and had a terrific time with some great friends. Auburn will take on Alabama tonight in Tuscaloosa in what should be a very competitive matchup. We all know Tigers and Elephants don’t get along, but for some reason I thought I might take a drive through Randomville this week just for the change of scenery. I hardly ever watch any kind of award shows. I have never seen a single presentation of the Grammys, Emmys or Oscars. I’m actually proud of that by the way. However, there is one segment of these type events that oddly peaks my interest. It’s when they take a look back at “those we lost” in the past year. So, here’s a look back at some sports figures we lost in

ANDY GRAHAM Columnist

2017 that I’ll certainly miss. George “The Animal” Steele — I grew up watching the World Wrestling Federation on Saturdays as a kid. This impish, hairy, baldheaded wild man who would literally eat the turnbuckle made quite an impression. I only recently learned his real name was Jim Myers and he had a master’s degree in education from Central Michigan. He was also a devout Christian. He was 79. Dick MacPherson — With a football coaching career in college and the NFL spanning 35 years, I remember him best as the head coach of Syracuse in the 1980s. I especially remember how

upset he was when Pat Dye chose to kick a field goal and settle for a tie in the 1988 Sugar Bowl. The Orangemen entered the game undefeated and it possibly cost them a national title. He was 86. Frank Broyles — I could write three columns on this icon of college football, but the majority of his exploits were before my time. I remember him as a broadcaster. He was the color analyst for some early 80s Iron Bowls. I still recall his commentary on Bo Jackson in 1983 and how he dominated the game. He was 92. Roy Halladay — He was one of the most dominant pitchers of his era starting for the Blue Jays and Phillies from 1998 to 2013. He won two Cy Young Awards and was an eight-time All-Star. As a Braves fan, I dreaded seeing him on the mound because I knew Atlanta was in trouble. He died in a plane crash he was piloting in the Gulf of Mexico.

three years of racing experience. Most recently, Little placed second in the Faith Racers Vet Challenge at the Monster Mountain Motocross Park in Tallassee. Not only has motocross become an important part of Little’s life, there are other aspects of the sports he enjoys. Little has become involved with the Faith Racers Ministry, which runs three or four faith-based camps per year for youngsters who are interested in motocross. Three years ago, Little also started a photography company called Littlemoto, where he takes photos of youngsters not only for their enjoyment but also as a learning experience. “My dad was deaf, so visual learning is very important to me,” Little said. “I started taking photos of kids and riders to help them see what they look like on their bikes, so they can understand what trainers are trying to tell them about their bodies.” Littlemoto, and helping young riders in general, has been the true spark behind Little’s passion. The sport keeps him young, he said, but it also allows him to give back. “All of it together became a great way for me to get in better shape and get my mind in better shape, but also know that I’m helping people and fulfilling a purpose god as gifted me with,” Little said.

He left behind a wife and two children. He was 40. Dick Enberg — When I think of watching the NFL football growing up, I automatically think of Dick Enberg and Merlon Olson in the booth. I always thought Enberg had a very smooth delivery and was a class act. His signature “Oh my!” was simplistic yet brilliant. He also won about every broadcasting award you can win. He was 82. Keith Jackson — It was actually this past weekend, but we lost one of the great voices of college football. When you think of the classic games in college football of yesteryear, you automatically hear the voice of Keith Jackson. His commanding presence and homespun charm has often been imitated, but never quite duplicated. He certainly left quite a legacy. He was 89. Andy Graham is a regular columnist for The Outlook.

LOCAL SPORTS CALENDAR Thursday, Jan. 18 High school boys basketball Alabama Christian at Dadeville, 7 p.m. Horseshoe Bend in tri-county tournament at Cleburne, TBA Pike Road at Reeltown, 7 p.m. Beulah at Central Coosa, 7 p.m. High school girls basketball Alabama Christian at Dadeville, 5:30 p.m. Horseshoe Bend in tri-county tournament at Cleburne County, TBA Pike Road at Reeltown, 5:30 p.m. High school wrestling Benjamin Russell at Stanhope Elmore, 5 p.m. Beauregard, Beulah at Dadeville, 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19 High school boys basketball Wetumpka at Benjamin Russell, 7 p.m. Dadeville at Central Coosa, 7 p.m. Horseshoe Bend in tri-county tournament at Cleburne, TBA Beulah at Reeltown, 7:30 p.m. High school girls basketball Wetumpka at Benjamin Russell, 5:30 p.m. Horseshoe Bend in tri-county tournament at Cleburne, TBA Beulah at Reeltown, 5:30 p.m.

Page 12

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Wednesday, January 17, 2018

The Outlook

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