Issuu

PAGE 9: LOCALS COMMENT ON CLOSING OF RUSSELL RETAIL

THE

FRIDAY

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

July 28, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 149 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢

SPORTS, PAGE 10: Reeltown hosts OTA

Firefighters battle area blazes

glass had been broken by the flames, as well as through the front door of the structure. “We were lucky that we were able to get in Several residents were displaced but only and get water on it pretty quickly,” said ACFD one minor injury was reported after a fire Capt. Wayne Windsor. “The damage from the damaged an apartment building at Sherwood flames was pretty much limited to that one Forest Apartments on Trussell Road Wednesday downstairs unit. There is some damage to the evening. one above it, but we could have been looking Those who lived at the complex credited at four units and the entire building had we not the quick response by the Alexander City gotten the breaks that we did.” Fire Department for limiting damage to the The only injury that was reported was a cut structure. on the hand of one of the men who lived in the At about 8 p.m., a 911 call reported a fire apartment where the fire began. in a downstairs unit of the B building at the Chief Reese McAlister said grease left apartment complex. The first unit arrived on unattended on a stove in the unit was the likely the scene just seven minutes after the call was cause of the blaze. completed. “The guys did a great job and it’s great news Mitch Sneed / The Outlook In all four large trucks, several other vehicles when they are able to minimize the damage and an ambulance responded. Firefighters got like they did in this case,” McAlister said. “All A structure fire at Sherwood Forest Apartments left one unit badly damaged hoses run from a nearby hydrant and got water Wednesday evening. Firefighters were quick to respond to limit damage to See FIRES • Page 3 on the flames through a window where the other units. By MITCH SNEED Editor

Camp HIll mayor names new chief of police

FUN with READING

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Camp Hill Mayor Ezell Smith informed members of the town council and a room full of residents she has hired Danny Williams as interim chief police chief, demoted Chief Johnny Potts to sergeant and terminated police Lt. Derrick Coley. “I fired officer Coley for continued insubordination and conduct unbecoming an officer,” Smith said. “I demoted Officer Johnny Potts for the same thing.” Potts and Coley said they were informed of the moves Monday. The demotion of Potts left the town without a police chief, something that is required for by the CJIS, the FBI’s information network. “By law we have to have an interim chief,” Smith explained. “I hired Officer Danny Williams as our interim chief. I also hired another officer.” Williams is currently in law enforcement in LaFayette and has previously worked as See POLICE • Page 7

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

BRHS rising senior Lamarious Howard flavors up his snow cone at Thursday’s Summer Reading Program Finale.

Library summer program draws to a close rewarding them for reading throughout the summer. This included a coupon for a free Kona Ice, as well as one for a ride on a train A crowd of more than 200 children gathered from Ballard Party Rental. at the Sportplex Gymnasium Thursday morning The rest of the gym was filled with fun at the annual summer reading program finale, activities, including a bounce house, an hosted by the Adelia Russell Library and inflatable slide, an inflatable bowling set, a ring Mamie’s Place Children’s Library. toss and a kid-sized cornhole board set. Inside the gym, library staff had a table Outside, lines were constantly queuing up lined with bags full of prizes for participants, By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

See LIBRARY • Page 3

Weather

90 73

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

Low

Lake Martin

Lake Levels

490.52

Reported on 07/27/17 @ 10 a.m.

LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443

laceyshowell@gmail.com 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL

54708 90050

With the approval of four new hires at three schools within the system, all of the personnel openings within the Alexander City School System have been filled for the upcoming school year. “Barring anything major, we should be set,” Superintendent Dr. Darrell Cooper said at the end of Thursday morning’s special called meeting. The board approved hiring Alan Lane as a social sciences teacher at Benjamin Russell, Nancy Holley as a Pre-K auxiliary teacher at Jim Pearson, and Stephanie Hanks and Stacey Dixon to teach math, science and social studies at Stephens Elementary School. Hanks and Dixon were present at the meeting and were officially introduced by Stephens Principal April Neese. The board also approved the resignation of Stephens teacher Kaley Stewart. Following the personnel approvals, Cooper reminded the board and school faculty in attendance that the teacher’s breakfast and convocation would be held on Aug. 1 at Benjamin Russell and that students would return to school on Aug. 7. The next scheduled meeting of the Alexander City Board of Education will be Aug. 15 at 5 p.m. in the meeting room of the Alexander City Board of Education building.

Painted rock phenomenon makes it to Alexander City

Today’s

High

City Board of Ed. fills remaining personnel openings

USPS Permit # 013-080

For those spending time outdoors in recent days, there is a fairly good chance they have run across a brightly painted rock with an inspirational message written on it. Taking the time to find a good rock to use, painting it up and hiding it for someone else to find has become the new big thing to do, and it seems like it’s spreading everywhere. Cliff Williams / The Outlook The Lake Martin area is These three painted rocks have recently turned up outside the Outlook offices, one of the newest places in just a few examples of the many different kinds of painted rocks being hidden all Alabama where these rocks have been found, joining around the Lake Martin area.

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locations like Camden, Andalusia, Prattville and Monroeville. Three groups on Facebook have sprung up for locals to share photos of the rocks they’ve found before turning around and re-hiding them: “Lake Martin Rocks AL!” “Alex City Rocks!” and “New Site Rocks!!” Local real estate agent Toni Adcock, who is one of the administrators of the Lake Martin Rocks page, described how she and her husband were inspired to create the group following a visit to family members in Brevard County, Florida and finding painted See ROCKS • Page 3

Page 2

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Guilt mingles with grief after boyfriend’s death

Saturday

87 68 Low

High

Partly sunny with a 30% chance of showers

Sunday

88 67 Low

High Sunny and clear

Staff

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

Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com 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 Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Advertising Sales, 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, (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) Kenneth Boone The Outlook is published five times Photography and a week, Tuesday through Saturday a commercial web mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, printing press. Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.

Postal

Information

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.

How to Submit Obituaries

Friday, July 28, 2017

The Outlook

DEAR ABBY: My boyfriend died unexpectedly a few months ago, and it has been a struggle to get through my sadness. We had been through a lot in the year and a half we were dating, including some infidelities on my part. Aside from my sadness and guilt, I’m struggling with the fear that I’ll never live down my infidelities or be able to make it up to him. It is clouding the positive memories I have of him. I don’t know how to stop my thoughts from going all over the place. Please help. -- SAD IN SACRAMENTO DEAR SAD: Much as we might wish to, none of us can change the past. I assume that you have now learned that it’s best to remain faithful in your romantic relationships. That’s a step in the right direction. The next step is to resolve that in future relationships you won’t stray, and if you are tempted to, you will discuss with your boyfriend what you feel is missing

suggest she move to a treadmill farther away or increase the volume on her headphones so your conversation won’t disturb her. However, if that doesn’t satisfy her, mention that she might be happier if she worked out at a different time when the place isn’t as full.

DEAR ABBY: I am wondering what the rule is for socializing at the gym. I work out twice a week with a friend, and we usually do part of our workout on the treadmill. While we walk, we will chat. We don’t talk loudly, and we never use offensive language. It’s just general chitchat about kids, work, etc. Twice, one woman (the

same woman) has ordered us to stop talking because we “bother” her. She wears headphones while she watches TV, but she says she can still hear us. Abby, when I wear headphones (even on a very low volume), it tunes out almost everything. By her strong reaction, I am assuming this woman is unusually sensitive to noise, but this is a gym, not a library. We never monopolize the machines. I don’t think I have ever been called rude in any other situation, and I always try to be pleasant and accommodating, so I would appreciate your thoughts. -- CHERYL IN HOUSTON DEAR CHERYL: I do have a few. When people work out at a shared facility, they have to expect there will be other people there. Treadmills make noise, and sometimes it’s necessary to speak in a louder than normal voice in order to be heard. If the woman complains again,

26, 2017 at East Alabama Medical Center. She was born on June 15, 1926 in Tallapoosa County, Alabama to Henry Lee Yarbrough and Lillie Mae Crouch Yarbrough. She was an active member of Bay Pine Baptist Church. Mrs. Jane was a very loving mother and grandmother. She enjoyed spending time outdoors gardening and fishing. She spent many hours making quilts for her family. She is survived by her daughter, Sarah N. Stone (Durell) of Alexander City; grandchildren, Derick Wayne Henderson (Maureen), Jesse Lee Henderson (Kim), Rebecca Jill Adams (Kenneth), John David Payne

(Margaret), Barry D. Stone (Carla); great-grandchildren, Keelyn Hall, Lawson Hall, Austin Adams, Carley Crowe; sister-in-law, Lillian L. Holman (Pete) and many loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, George Washington Henderson; son, Lee Henderson; parents; sisters, Lucille Pemberton, Lizzie Mae Railey; brothers, Wilcie and C.D. Yarbrough. Pallbearers will be Jesse Henderson, Derick Henderson, Kenneth Adams, Barry Stone, Durell Stone, Johnny Payne and John D. Payne Memorial messages may

be sent to the family at www. radneyfuneralhome.com.

DEAR ABBY Advice

in your relationship. As to how to disrupt the intrusive memories that keep flooding back, a technique many people use is to REMIND themselves to stay in the moment each time an unwanted memory pops up. The technique is called “mindfulness,” and it works.

DEAR ABBY: Most everyone appears to be fighting over politics these days, and there’s even in-fighting within each side. Will it ever stop? -- BAFFLED IN THE EAST DEAR BAFFLED: Perhaps. But it won’t happen until people stop shouting (literally and figuratively), decide to bring civility back and start listening respectfully to each other. 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 Mrs. Sophie Jane Henderson 1926 - 2017 Funeral Service for Mrs. Sophie Jane Henderson, 91, of Jacksons Gap, Alabama, will be Saturday, July 29, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the Bay Pine Baptist Church. Mrs. Henderson will lie in state for one hour prior to the service. Bro. Jamie Williams and Rev. John Dye Jr. will officiate. Burial will follow in the Henderson Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, July 28, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. Mrs. Henderson passed away on Wednesday, July

Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Mr. William (Bill) Benjamin Chambers Jr. 1930 - 2017 Visitation for Mr. William Benjamin Chambers Jr., 86, of Alexander City, will be at Radney Funeral Home on Tuesday August 1st from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www. radneyfuneralhome.com.

Alexander City Kiwanis Club donates to middle school

Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by e-mail at obits@alexcityoutlook.com or by fax at (256) 234-6550. For more information, call (256) 234-4281.

SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law 135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL

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Submitted / The Outlook

The Alexander City Kiwanis Club recently made a donation of supplies and equipment for use in the Alexander CIty Middle School Muti-Needs Unit. Pictured from left are Leslie Wingler, Matt Haines, Louise Tapley, Melinda Blair, Sherry Ellison-Simpson, Traci Blakely, Marvin Wagoner and Randy Dawkins.

Wetumpka police officer involved in fatal crash arrested immediately. “We made contact with him and he showed up The Wetumpka police within the hour,” officer involved in the Franklin said. “His U.S. 231 crash that killed attorney had called a Wetumpka woman in October surrendered himself and he was aware of it.” to authorities Wednesday Bass Bass was driving morning and was placed his Wetumpka in Elmore County Jail charged with manslaughter, Police Department cruiser according to Elmore County on U.S. 231 on Saturday, October 22 when his Sheriff Bill Franklin. vehicle struck a 2016 Franklin said Andrew Honda Pilot driven by Bass surrendered almost Elaine Merritt, 52, of By COREY ARWOOD and DAVID GRANGER Staff Writers

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Wetumpka. Merritt was killed in the accident. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s report says occurred at 3:55 p.m. at the intersection of U.S. 231 and Cambridge Avenue. She was turning left to head north toward Wetumpka when Bass’ 2010 Dodge Charger Wetumpka police cruiser struck her vehicle. No estimate of Bass’ speed at the time of the accident has been released publicly. However, a diagram of the accident included with the report indicates that the impact of the crash occurred in the middle turn lane that divides 231 at that location, that the force of the collision spun Merritt’s vehicle completely around and the Honda Pilot came to rest blocking the two main traffic lanes of U.S. 231 northbound. According to the report, Merritt was taken to Elmore County Hospital where she was pronounced dead. The report also indicates that Merritt was wearing a shoulder and lap restraint and that Bass was not wearing a seat belt. Drug and alcohol tests were administered to both Merritt and Bass, but the results are unknown at this time. Bass was truebilled by the most recent Elmore County grand jury.

His bond has been set at $35,000, according to Franklin. An eyewitness to the accident, Guy Bacon, told the Wetumpka Herald in October that neither Bass’ lights or siren were engaged at the time of the accident. Bacon, who said he saw Bass approaching him from behind at a high rate of speed before the officer passed him in the middle turn lane, showering his vehicle with dirt and debris, said he and another motorist, who was traveling north on 231, stopped to assist the victims after the accident occurred. When they went to assist Bass, Bacon said, the radio in his vehicle was tuned to music that was so loud that it had to be turned down for him to be understood when he answered their questions regarding his condition. “The other fellow that was there with me helping (Bass) told him, ‘We need to turn down your radio so that we can hear you,’” said Bacon. “(The music) was pretty loud.” Bacon said that he and the other individual who stopped to assist gave witness reports to investigators at the scene. Franklin said Bass would be arraigned and plead prior to the case going to trial. Attempts to reach the WPD for Bass’ current employment status and comment were unsuccessful Wednesday morning.

Friday, July 28, 2017

The Outlook

Page 3

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Library for the train ride and Kona Ice, while bagged lunches were waiting for the children in a different room of the gym building. “It’s been a good crowd today,” Library Director Amy Huff said. “It’s been a big success.” During the nearly two month long program, 254 children and teens signed up to participate. Of these, 134 met the goals they had set at the start of the summer, according to librarians at Mamie’s Place. Huff added that 6,914 books were logged as read by the 254 participants. In addition to the number of children and teens that participated, 45 adults registered for the program, reading 715 books, bringing the grand total to 299 participants and 7,629 books read. “It went very well this year. I’m happy with the number of participants we had and the total number of books read,” Huff said. Along with those who registered, 1,142 children and teens took part in the 34 programs held for them throughout the summer, while 78 adults participated in the three events held specifically for them.

continued from page 1

Throughout the finale, Huff made her way through the gathered throngs of children, asking them if they were enjoying themselves, receiving a resounding yes every time she asked. She said that the attendance numbers at the finale were better than they have been in previous years, since they held the event during the week, giving many of the local daycares the chance to come and participate. Huff wanted to express her thanks to the many individuals and organizations that helped make the 2017 summer reading program possible. These included the Alexander City Sportplex for allowing the library to use the gym for the kickoff and finale events, Jim Bob’s and LakeWinds Golf Course for donating prizes for the adult readers, the officials who took part as community readers and J.R.’s for providing lunch to all the children at the finale. “I just hope the kids continue reading and make it a regular part of their life,” Huff said. “And in keeping with this year’s theme, I hope they go out and build a better world.”

Fires

Donald Campbell / The Outlook

Top: A group of children play with the inflatable bowling set during Thursday’s library summer reading finale celebration. Left: The train from Ballard Party Rental takes a group of summer reading participants on a ride around the Sportplex Gymnasium parking lot Thursday morning. Below: Gift bags were given to children.

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER FOR THE UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR continued from page 1

indications are that it started in the kitchen from grease left on the stove and quickly spread.” Ken Cowart with the American Red Cross was on the scene Wednesday evening to aid those who were displaced. Maintenance crews from the complex were on the scene as well and began the work of securing the building and accessing the damage. Wednesday was a busy day for the fire department. Firefighters were called to a vehicle fire at a home on Trail’s End Wednesday

morning. Firefighters were able to get the fire out but the vehicle was a total loss. Due to the circumstances and evidence found at the scene, the fire is considered suspicious and is under investigation by the Alexander City Fire Department and investigators from the Alexander City Police Department. The department had four fire calls on Thursday: two vehicle blazes, one small structure fire and one that was reported as a brush fire.

Tallapoosa County Schools:

• August 2- Horseshoe Bend Open House (high school), seniors- 1 p.m., juniors- 2 p.m., sophomores- 3 p.m., freshmen- 4 p.m., eighth grade- 5 p.m., seventh grade- 6 p.m. • August 3- Horseshoe Bend Open House (kindergarten, second, fourth, sixth grades) 5:306:15 p.m., (first, third, fifth grades) 6:30-7:15 p.m. • August 3- Dadeville Elementary School Open House, 5-6:30 p.m. • August 3- Dadeville High School Open House, 2-7:30 p.m. • August 3- Reeltown Elementary School Open House, 2-6 p.m. • August 3- Reeltown High School Open House, 2-6 p.m. • August 7- Students’ first day of the 20172018 school year.

Alexander City Schools:

• July 31- Alexander City Middle School Orientation, 10-11 a.m. (seventh grade), 1-2 p.m. (eighth grade) • August 2- Jim Pearson Elementary School Open House, 4-6 p.m. (kindergarten, second grade) • August 2- Radney Elementary School Open House, 3-5 p.m. • August 3- Jim Pearson Elementary School Open House, 4-6 p.m. (Pre-K, first grade) • August 3- Stephens Elementary School Open House, 3-6 p.m. • August 3- Benjamin Russell High School Open House, 5-6:30 p.m. • August 7- Students’ first day of the 20172018 school year. • August 21- Alexander City Middle School Open House, 5:30 p.m.

Rocks rocks while down there. The Adcocks started the Lake Martin Rocks group a couple of weeks ago, and since then, the page has grown to 160 members. “It’s a hoot. It’s crazy. It’s wonderful,” she said. “It’s a fun, pleasant project, and it’s fun to share what you did with others.” On their page, Adcock’s husband posted a set of guidelines to follow when painting, hiding and finding rocks throughout the area, which he received permission to copy from the page “Brevard Rocks FL!” and its over 40,000 members. These rules include not painting rocks with negative messages or images, not hiding any inside businesses and being careful when hiding rocks so as not to cause potential damage. Adcock estimates that, since returning from Florida, she has hidden around half a dozen rocks, but because the three painted rocks groups have grown as fast as they have, these painted stones have been turning up throughout the area. “I was at a meeting of the Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors a week or two ago, and I heard someone say they found one at Wendy’s and thought it was a lot of fun,” she said, giving one of many examples of how people have felt when they stumbled across one of the hidden rocks. Adcock said she felt it would be highly rewarding to see these groups continue to grow, with more and more people joining in the fun by either painting and

continued from page 1

hiding or finding, sharing and re-hiding the stones, as well as the overall impact being a part of the painted rocks project has had on people. “My children and I have been participants with New Site Rocks!!, a group on Facebook. We’ve had the best time painting rocks and being creative along with hiding them to spread a type of joy to others when they find them,” said local resident Desiree Sharpe. When they paint their rocks, Sharpe puts inspirational messages on hers, while her children go with images likes hearts and smiling faces, she said. While they have only gotten involved approximately one week ago, all three of them

have greatly enjoyed taking part in this project. “It’s a blessing to see how something a simple as a painted rock can make a huge impact on a person’s daily life/mood,” Sharpe said. A post on the Outlook Facebook page Thursday afternoon about this project drew a great deal of interest from the public. Many were tagging friends on the post, while others shared their experiences and thoughts. “My daughter found these in Dadeville this morning,” Jessica Pritchard Hutchinson said along with a photo of a blue rock, a rainbow rock, a yellow stone with “Let Your Light Shine” written on it, and a navy blue one with the

message “U R Loved.” Accompanied by a photo of a rock painted black carrying the message of “Summer 2017,” “Found this one today at Zaxby’s in Alexander City,” Tammi Clampitt said. “I’m going to get my special needs students to do them so once school starts… y’all be looking!” Kristi Jordan proclaimed. In the foreseeable future, Adcock said she plans to paint up a few more rocks and hide them around the Lake Martin area, yet not overwhelm herself with turning out a multitude of stones. “It’s not like I’m in production mode. That takes away the fun of it all,” she said.

For those who want to join in the fun, “Lake Martin Rocks AL!” is an open group, as is “Alex City Rocks!” “New Site Rocks!!” however, is a closed group, but with only the approval of an administrator needed to become a part, joining is not difficult. Since it is fairly easy to paint and hide rocks, and

even easier to find one and share a photo of it online, getting involved in a painted rocks project is an exciting and fun activity for people of all ages. “It’s an innocent, happy thing to do,” Adcock said. “Everything I’ve heard from people about it has certainly been positive.”

Celebrating a

Milestone

AUCTION: House & 10 Acres + 70 Acre Parcel

• Parcel 1: 2064 sq. ft. 3 bedroom, 2 bath house with garage and 10 acres • Parcel 2: 70 acres The described properties will sell, at public outcry, for cash, to the highest bidder.

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.

In front of the Courthouse Annex Doors in Alexander City, Tallapoosa County, Alabama August 7th, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. Such sale will be made on the terms of 10% down and the remainder to be paid within thirty days of the date of sale. Said property will be sold on an “as is, where is” basis.

Contact Mac Clayton at 256-329-0432 for more information Former property of Charlie McGuire.

w w w. a l e x c i t y o u t l o o k . c o m

Proud community partner for 125 years!

MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213

editor@alexcityoutlook.com

EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Page 4

Opinion

Our View Area folks prove they have big hearts

s our staff goes about its job of gathering news, we often encounter people who go above and beyond the call of duty to help others. Sometimes the special effort comes from public servants or first responders. We see that special dedication from a health care worker, a nurse or a home health professional. Civic clubs are always finding ways to help others in need with fundraising projects or donations. Businesses and corporations here are very generous and step up to help when they can and help provide what is needed by those who are less fortunate. We even see neighbors or citizens step up or store employees who go the extra mile for others. It may be something in the water here, but it seems that it’s impossible to throw a rock and not hit someone with a kind heart and the willingness to go above and beyond to help others. Need proof? In recent efforts by the Outlook, here are some prime examples: • Consider the efforts of Russell Retail employees Patti Kennedy and Kristi Joiner. The pair turned to family and friends and left no stone unturned to locate the rightful owner of a Davidson College class ring that had been lost at the store more than 20 years ago. They didn’t rest until it was returned to a very thankful William Benson in Tallahassee, Florida earlier this week. • At a fire at Sherwood Apartments Wednesday night you saw several examples of how much local folks care. The firefighters busted their tails to get there quickly and that lightning fast response minimized the damage. On a hot night, in full turnout gear, these first-responders worked extremely hard and made sure that all were safe. The Red Cross and Ken Cowart were on the scene to make sure residents had what they needed and other residents in the complex were spotted reaching out to those displaced. • We saw an animal control officer lay flat on his belly in a muddy culvert trying to rescue a kitten who became entrapped in a storm drain. • Our own sheriff rode with the parents of a missing girl almost 400 miles round trip after she was found, just to make sure that the investigation was complete and everything went well. See what we mean? Out hats are off to these folks. If you see a good deed or someone going the extra mile, let us know. We’d like to see editorials like this more often.

Know Your

Officials Communication with elected officials is the key to good government. To let your most local representatives know how you feel about state or local matters, contact any of the following. Governor Kay Ivey represents the state of Alabama and its 67 counties. She was sworn into office on April 10, 2017, and can be reached at 334-242-7100. Her office is located at the State Capitol at 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama.

Kay Ivey

Luther Strange was elected Alabama’s 49th Attorney General first elected in 2010, and serves as the State’s chief law enforcement officer. He can be reached at 334-242-7300, and Luther Strange his office is located at 501 Washington Avenue, Montgomery. Mark Tuggle (R) represents the 81st District covering Coosa, Chilton and Tallapoosa counties. He can be reached by phone at 256-3922006 or by email at tughd81@gmail.com. Mark Tuggle His office is located at 110 Calhoun Street, Suite 108, Alexander City. Tom Whatley represents the 27th District covering Lee, Russell and Tallapoosa County. He was elected to the Alabama Senate on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334Tom Whatley 242-t7865. His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn.

Outlook The

Listening and hearing are 2 separate things

his past month has been a bit of an ordeal for me because I’ve had trouble hearing out of my right ear. As a matter of fact, for a while I went deaf in the ear due to a nerve problem. Thank the Lord my hearing has returned, but it’s been more than aggravating dealing with this problem. I had already started shopping for an old-timey hearing horn to stick in my ear. Because I couldn’t hear but 50 percent of what was being said I had to nod a lot, look pastorally concerned and try to read lips. My sweet spouse said it didn’t really make any difference at home because I only listened to about half of what she said. Oh my, the half I hear is scary enough maybe I don’t want to hear the other half. The again maybe I’ve been missing the best part. I guess it’s just a husband thing. When I went to the doctor he asked me if I had any loud, unnecessary noises associated with that ear. I pointed out that my wife sleeps on my right side, sits in the car on that side and usually is to my right at the table. I even laughed and pointed out she was sitting to my right in the examination room. I thought it was funny

to push it now that I have my full sight back. I’m still not sure about her sense of humor in some of these matters. The scriptures remind us that DR. GERALD “He that has an ear let him hear HALLMARK what the Spirit is saying.” It is Columnist a hard thing to be physically deaf, but it is an eternally tragic and turned to see her reaction. thing to be spiritually deaf. God I got her reaction speaks to us from His word, immediately and I knew I through His Spirit, out of His should have left well enough church and by our relationship alone because for the next two with His Son. He calls us to days I couldn’t see out of my a higher standard and a life right eye. I guess she didn’t attuned to His will. If we listen think it was as funny as I did. only to the Siren call of the I think the swelling in my eye world we will miss the greatest subsided at the same rate my blessings life has to offer. Let’s hearing returned. So, I’m still not just listen and miss half of a little gimpy with these two what is being said, let’s hear senses on the right side of what is being communicated my noggin, but I learned an and take action. God has important lesson. My wife’s something to tell you, are you sense of humor isn’t the same as hearing Him? mine. I probably missed that in Uh-oh, my wife came by the fifty percent I never listened a few minutes ago and said to. something as I was typing. I Now that my hearing has just looked up and now she is returned I don’t feel like I have standing in the door tapping my head in a bucket when I her foot with her arms crossed. speak. I told my Sweetie that Maybe if I nod a lot and look this should really improve my pastorally concerned she will preaching and communication think I was paying attention. skills. She said I should have Dr. Gerald Hallmark is a lost my hearing years ago if retired minister who lives in that was the case. I know she is Alexander City. His column only kidding, but I didn’t want appears here each Friday.

Friday, July 28, 2017

Today’s

Quote

“Courage is being scared to death but saddling up anyway.” –John Wayne

Today’s

Scripture “Walk in love as Christ also loved us and given himself for us.” –Ephesians 5:2

alexcityoutlook.com

Daily Poll Thursday Question: Do you transgender people should be able to serve in the military?

No — 67%., 26 votes Yes — 33%, 13 votes

Friday’s Question: Have you ever been called a good samaritan? 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

How to

Will President Trump quit? Not a chance

hould President Donald Trump quit? A large percentage of Americans voted against him and continue to dislike him. About all of the Democrats in Congress are against him and there are certainly Republicans who aren’t Trump fans. I was recently in France and there are plenty of people in that country who mock Trump. I would wager transgender people in the military don’t like him. The protestors who show up wherever he is to protest, some of them paid to do so, don’t like him. Most of the media hates Trump. You would think NBC would love Trump. He made mega millions for that network with his successful The Apprentice television show. NBC begins every Today show and evening nightly news with five to 15 minutes of Trump bashing. This week I timed the Trump bashing segment on the Today show at 14 minutes and some seconds. They came on at 7 and immediately began with the Russian collusion story that they pound every day almost seven days a week. Of course CNN hates Trump and still cannot come to grips with the fact that Hillary Clinton lost. The American people voted for Trump and Trump won the election. I did not vote against Hillary because of Russian interference. I voted for Trump because I felt we desperately need a change of direction in this country. With so much of the media, American people and politicians against Trump it would only make sense that his wherewithal

thought he was joking. Many on air media personalities just knew he was going to pull his name off the list. They felt like it was a publicity stunt. Many people fail to push GLENN ahead in life because the crowd MOLLETTE is difficult to overcome. There Columnist will always be voices who will ask, “Why do you want to do to stay with the tasks at hand such and such?” Or they will be would be daunting. I suspect negative about any ambitious it’s harder than we know and ideas that you have. You will we don’t know what is going find this from close family to on with him internally. He friends to work place peers. If obviously churns a lot about you listen close enough you the current Attorney General will lose your focus on going Jeff Sessions. The former forward and you’ll end up FBI director James Comey staying right where you are is probably a splinter in his for the rest of your life. Just side but the list of splinters in remember these same people Trump’s skin would be almost will later criticize you for sitting unending. where you are and not doing President Trump will not anything with your life. Thus, be quitting and I would never learn from wise people who are want him to. He’s just been truly wise but then leave the elected and he has a lot to others behind and go forward. accomplish. Having to jockey Trump won’t quit because your life around the haggling he is not used to quitting. He’s of Congress would have to be had plenty of failures and extremely difficult. Trump is shortcomings but his mindset used to being a businessman has been to keep moving even and moving on with the when he suffered a loss. business at hand. He would like Trump’s going to stick with to operate this way as President being President. Members but of course that’s impossible. of Congress who want to He has Congress to kill most accomplish some positive anything he would like to change in this country shouldn’t accomplish. Somehow they will waste the next three and onefind a way to save their own half years and work hard skin with the healthcare bill. with him to accomplish some Instead of taking action they positive change in this country. will delay and amend until they Dr. Glenn Mollette is a can feel like they can fly home syndicated columnist and and tell everybody they have author of 12 books, including personally rallied Congress to his latest “Uncommon Sense.” save healthcare. Contact him at GMollette@ Trump was mocked when aol.com. Like his facebook he talked about running for page at www.facebook.com/ glennmollette President. Most of the media

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) 234-6550 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.

Friday, July 28, 2017

The Outlook

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The Outlook

Friday, July 28, 2017

The Outlook

Police

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

High profile construction Recent storms had caused a piece of the copper facing that adorns the steeple at the First Baptist Church of Alexander City to pull loose. Wednesday crews used a crane to access the steeple and reattached the metal to help keep the iconic structure weather tight.

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an officer in Camp Hill before resigning. Smith also stated at the meeting that the two recently disciplined officers were sent letters that they could ask for a hearing on the matter within 10 days. The move left Smith scheduling the officers to cover the town. She scheduled the other remaining officer to work nights. Tallapoosa County Sheriff Jimmy Abbett said his department was helping out. “We are responding to calls in Camp Hill when no one is working,” Abbett said. After the meeting Smith defended the move saying mayors in towns of less than 6,000 residents can make moves like the appointing of a chief. Potts was hired by a vote of the Camp Hill Town Council on Dec. 15, 2014. With the council deadlocked 2-2, former Mayor Danny Evans broke the tie with his vote for Potts. After the meeting, Potts said he had been suspended by Smith in April but was reinstated by unanimous council vote. Coley also stated after the meeting he was suspended by Smith in June but was reinstated by a unanimous vote of the council.

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

A crowd gathers for a police committee meeting of the Town of Camp Hill Council. Former police officer Derrick Coley and Former chief Johnny Potts were at the meeting.

Members of the committee appeared to question the moves of Smith as they were told they could not discuss the issues of Potts and Coley in the committee meeting as it was called to discuss issues in the police department manual. Council Member Duane Blackwell asked about a special called meeting to allow the council to discuss the issue. Smith informed them that either she could call a special meeting or two council members could sign a letter requesting a special called meeting. Blackwell and Council Member Linda Caldwell

signed such a letter and Smith set a special called meeting of the Town of Camp Hill council for Monday, July 31 at 6 p.m. The presence of Council Member Clifford Wilkerson on the committee and Council Member Dean Bonner in audience gave the opportunity to call an emergency council meeting that would have had a quorum present. Smith offered little as to the reasoning behind the moves in the police department. “My job today and everyday is to protect and serve the citizens of Camp Hill,” Smith said. “That is my only objective.”

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CommunityCalendar Need Insurance? Call me.

Friday, July 28, 2017

The Outlook

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 is July 28, 2017

–Since 1978–

BIG “B” BAR-B-QUE “We Cook The Best BETTER!”

Hickory Grilled Meat

Today’s Events

BBQ • STEAK CHICKEN • CATFISH

MOVIE NIGHT: River of Life Worship Center is hosting a movie night July 28. WWJD II The Woodcarver will start at 7:30 p.m. Concessions will be sold.

256.234.3481 KarenChannell.com

256.329.9996 Hwy. 22 West, Alexander City, AL

Today’s Birthdays

Bobbie Smith, Annie Pearson, Luke Owens, Juniate Duck, Tommy Lucas, Brandon Sherrer, Jakorria Glenn, Emberly Collum and Lastarla Simmons are celebrating their birthdays today. Hardwood Floors Ceramic Tile Carpet & Vinyl Locally Owned for Over 45 Years

Dwain and Mary Nelson celebrate their anniversary today.

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LOOR

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Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy 2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com

Come Visit Us! Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing

PRECIOUS MEMORIES GIFTS & MORE Monogramming onogramming Boutique outique CClothing lothing Jewelry ewelry Bathing athing S Suits uits & More More 10147 County Road 34 Dadeville, AL

256-496-4017

H&A Installation, Charge Outs and Repair

Today’s Anniversaries

256-234-6071 OLMAN

Tony Guy, Owner Over 40 Years Experience

Sheet Metal Work

Submitted / The Outlook

Rev. Carl Kelly of Horseshoe Bend Baptist Church entertained residents of The Meadows Assisted Living with a special program that included music and magic with a message as part of Sun Festival’s ‘Hanging at the Home.’

Saturday, July 29

$500 GIVEAWAY: The Goodwater Disabled Veterans Organization is having a $500 giveaway July 29 at 2 p.m. at the Goodwater Disabled Veterans Organization, located at 7882 U.S. Highway 280 in Goodwater. First prize is $250, second is $150 and third is $100. Donations are being accepted by calling Richard McElarth at 256-2764776, Renell Hill at 256-839-6915, Wade McElarth at 256-749-9100 or Willie James Gaddis at 256-861-6177. Proceeds will be used to help feed veterans. YOUTH FOOTBALL CAMP: Bridge Builders will be hosting a youth football camp for grades 1-8 July 29 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Sportplex. For more information, contact Hudson Hinton at 256-750-1140 or Tommie Kelly at 256-786-0542. BENEFIT SINGING: All for Him will be praising God with the Pritchard family. Sonny went home and those of us that wait for our time to join him will be rejoicing and singing praises for a blessing to fall on his wife and children in their time of need. Please come out and join us at Kellyton Revival Center July 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. BENEFIT SINGING: Mt. Siani Baptist Church in Waverly is hosting a benefit for Edger Tug Woody July 29 at 5:30 p.m. Host Star Wonder gospel singers will be performing. Rev. Cory Hughley is pastor. BACK 2 SCHOOL DRIVE: The Jacksons Gap Back 2 School Drive is Saturday, July 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Jacksons Gap Fire Department. There will be food, fun and school supplies for students who can’t afford them. Donations are being accepted through July 25 at the Jacksons Gap Town Hall. FAMILY REUNION: The Mahan Yates Jarvis Family Reunion will be July 29 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Rocky Creek Fellowship Hall. Bring a covered dish and sit a spell. BLAST FROM THE PAST: The Weogufka Center is hosting the third annual Blast from the Past July 29 starting at 7 p.m. Concessions start at 5:30 p.m. with spaghetti, garlic bread, salad, dessert and drink. Admission to the show and dinner is $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12. BACK TO SCHOOL GIVEAWAY: Sistas for a Cause and Mary’s Little Lamb Daycare are having a back to school giveaway July 29 starting at 9 a.m. at the Cooper Recreation Center. The giveaway is limited to one packet per child with free supplies and food. CONCERT: River of Life Church on Tallapoosa Street is hosting Noah Cleveland for a live concert July 29 at 6 p.m. with pizza and refreshments afterwards.

Sunday, July 30

REGENERATION PRAISERS REGISTRATION: The Studio will be taking registration for praise dance, tumbling and cheerleading, basic lyrical/lyrical/ballet dance and majorette dance. The early bird sign up is July 30 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. for $20 and $25 for sign ups from 5 to 6 p.m. Aug. 9, 10, 16,17, 23, 24, 30, 31, and Sept. 1. For more information, contact Kenyatta Simmons at Regeneration Praisers or email Ksimmons@acsk12. net or call Diane Deloney at 256-3074195 or Rosalyn Salter at 256-7941023. PASTOR APPRECIATION: St. James AME Church in Goodwater is hosting the 12th pastor appreciation service honoring Rev. John and First Lady Anita Leonard Sunday, July 30 with Rev. Al Williams speaking at the 11 a.m. service and Rev. Cameron Thomas at the 2:30 p.m. service.

PASTORAL INSTALLATION: Centerview Missionary Baptist will host the pastoral installation of Reverend Jimmial Harrison Sr. Sunday, July 30 at 2 p.m. The installation message will be by Rev. Dr. Emerson Ware Jr. Everyone is invited.

Tuesday, August 1

USHER MEETING: There will be a meeting of the Early Rose District ushers August 1 at 5 p.m. at the Early Rose District Center. HIPPY PROGRAM: Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters, or HIPPY, will be accepting applications for registration for the new school year. We will be available during Jim Pearson’s Open House events and any day or time at the HIPPY Office. Call or leave a message at 256-329-2700. You can also message us through the HIPPY AC facebook page-https://www.facebook.com/ hippyalexcity/ Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters – known as HIPPY – partners with parents to prepare their children for success in school. HIPPY is an evidenced-based family support model that works directly with parents in their homes to give them books, activities and skills needed for preparing their children for school. Any and all families are invited to be a part of this program.

Wednesday, August 2

OPEN HOUSE: Horseshoe Bend School is hosting an open house for high school students, for seniors at 1 p.m., juniors at 2 p.m., sophomores at 3 p.m., freshmen at 4 p.m., eighth grade at 5 p.m. and seventh grade at 6 p.m. MONTHLY LUNCHEON: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have their Monthly Luncheon on Wednesday August 2 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Please bring a covered dish and a small donation. NIGHT OF PRAISE: St. James AME Church in Goodwater is hosting the Goodwater Ministerial Alliance Night of Praise and Worship Wednesday, August 2 at 7 p.m. Guest speaker will be Rev. Camron Thomas, pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Cropwell.

Thursday, August 3

OPEN HOUSE: Horseshoe Bend School is hosting an open house for elementary school students with kindergarten, second, fourth, sixth grades at 5:30-6:15 p.m. and first, third and fifth grades at 6:30-7:15 p.m. OPEN HOUSE: Dadeville Elementary School is hosting an open house for elementary school students Aug. 3 from 5-6:30 p.m. OPEN HOUSE: Reeltown Elementary School is hosting an open house for elementary school students Aug. 3. Parents can drop off supplies in the classrooms at 5:30 p.m. with everyone meeting in the Reeltown Elementary School Auditorium at 6 p.m. for a meet and greet. OPEN HOUSE: Reeltown High School is hosting an open house for high school students Aug. 3 from 2-6 p.m. ISRAEL SPEAKER: Michael Hines will speak on the newly created Israel Encounter program August 3 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Lakeview Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Auburn.

Friday, August 4

ALZHEIMER’S CONFERENCE: The 15th Annual Alzheimer’s Professional and Family Caregiver Conference will be Friday, August 4 at Frazer United Methodist Church in Montgomery. UAB research specialist Dr. Rita Jablonski-Jaudon will be

FREE Estimates on NEW installations Service a 30 mile radius of Alexander City

discussing strategies to deal with dementia patients with non-drug interventions. For more information, call 334-3994342 or 334-233-2139. $20 general admission or $55 for professionals needing CE credit.

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Saturday, August 5

BACK TO SCHOOL EXPLOSION: The will be a Back To School Explosion at the Betty Carol Graham Center at CACC August 5 from 2 to 4 p.m. The event is being coordinated by GAP Fellowship Church as it has for the last 16 years. The guest speaker is 13-year-old King Nahh from Newark, New Jersey who has been featured on Steve Harvey’s Little Big Shots and Good Morning America. Students of all ages are encouraged to attend. There will be free school supplies for all students and backpacks will also be given way. Teachers and administrators are also encouraged to attend as well. There will be pizza and drinks, too.

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Lawn Care Darrell Brooks, Owner Cutting •Edging Weed Eating •Mulch Weed Control

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Sunday, August 6

CHURCH SINGING: Old Providence Baptist Church in Hackneyville is hosting an all day singing August 6 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Special singers will be the Kingsland Quartet from Arab. Lunch will be at noon and everyone is invited. CHURCH ANNIVERSARY: The Wall Street African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church is celebrating 137 years of ministry August 6 at 3 p.m. A program is being prepared to commemorate the occasion to be followed by dinner. OPEN HOUSE: Dadeville Christian Academy will be having an open house August 6 from 3 to 5 p.m. at 2392 Eagle Creek Road in Jacksons Gap. MOVIE: The ACOP Church in the Roses Shopping Center is hosting a free movie on the environmental condition in America today, Sunday, August 6 at 5 p.m. CHURCH HOMECOMING: Haven Memorial United Methodist Church is hosting homecoming services August 6 at 2 p.m. The guest pastor is Julia Marbury. ISRAEL SPEAKER: Michael Hines will speak on the newly created Israel Encounter program August 6 from 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Opelika and from 6 to 7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Opelika.

August 6-9

CHURCH HOMECOMING AND REVIVAL: Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is hosting homecoming and revival services August 6 at 2 p.m. and August 7-9. The guest speaker will be Rev. Ceburne Riggins and Rev. James Whetstone. The Pastor of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is Rev. Roosevelt Gregory.

Monday, August 7

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM: The Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area after school program begins August 7. The program is daily from 2:30 until 6 p.m. The club will offer free transportation to the clubs for K-4 through middle school. The Searcy Unit price is $25 a week. To sign up children, visit the website at bgcoflakemartinarea.wixsite.com/ bgclma.

August 7-9

CHURCH REVIVAL: Haven Memorial United Methodist Church is hosting revival services August 7-9 at 7 p.m. nightly with senior pastor Percy. L. Nolan Jr.

The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow

The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for Weekend Shifts in 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

SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

Friday, July 28, 2017

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The Outlook

“Russell Retail has been so important to us all for so many years. I sure hate to see it go. Even more reason to shop out of town. Everyone yells ‘SHOP LOCAL,’ but there has to be something left to buy!

“‘Gone with the Wind,’ many of our family’s clothing items came from this store. Online giants like Amazon are among us.” — Ditra Montgomery Campbell

— Tiﬀany Martin Bishop

“Very sad. My parents have bought me something from Russell Retail every year for Christmas. It was my go to place for Bama gear.”

“A Sad Day! At the old, old store my mother bought material by the pound and made all my clothes.”

—Brad Blankenship

— Rita Huey

END OF AN ERA: “A sad day!! There has always been a Russell outlet/retail store here. Progress is not always good!”

When news broke Thursday that a closing date had been set for the Russell Retail Store, it drew some emotional responses from followers on the Outlook’s Facebook page. Here is a sampling of what people are saying and feeling as yet another part of Russell’s golden years says goodbye.

“It’s sad. The town is really hurt.” —Jean Hill Richardson

“We would buy 2 t-shirts from Russell outlet, cut off top of one and sew it to bottom of other to make t-shirt dresses. Anyone else do this?”

—Susan Smith Mann

“I hate to see the store leave also. It was so easy to run and get a shirt printed up for any ball team. Retail store will be missed greatly.” — Rhonda Shaddix McMichen

— Linda Carter

“I hate the retail store is closing. So sad. They have been such an important part of our community. They will be missed.” — Marcia Taunton Bolan

“Still wearing DriPower shirts, pants, Capri I bought 22-23 yrs ago, took care of them so still look fine. I hate there is no longer a retail store, I remember my mother buying cloth in the first store that was where dairy queen is now. Got my BRHS jacket there when colors were red/white. Lot of memories from those stores. Guess if no mills to make the products, then no need for the store. So sad. Yep, not much locally for sure.”

“This absolutely breaks my heart! I used to shop at the old location for fabric, I’ve been a customer for so long. Still have my pair of left-handed scissors purchased there.”

—Denise Cook

— Gloria Wilson

Triggerfish proclivity to remain close to structure, whether it’s artificial reefs, petroleum platforms or natural bottom. “You’re not going to see triggerfish free-swimming away from the reefs,” he said. “You’ll see big red snapper freeswimming sometimes, but we’ve probably had 3,000 longline sets during our research, and we’ve never collected a gray triggerfish away from structure.” Powers hopes NOAA Fisheries will use the data collected by the USA team and incorporate it into the management plan for triggerfish so at least there can be a season in 2018. “I’m not sure what that catch limit might be, but hopefully we’ll get the return of the triggerfish season,” he said. “Triggerfish are out there. But that’s what you expect when you ease up fishing pressure with these reef fish populations. We see it with red snapper. We see it with gray triggerfish. They have the ability to rebound a lot quicker than most scientists thought a decade or two ago.

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“The state has sponsored a large monitoring effort offshore since 2010 with the idea that it would help inform the federal models, but also give the states data if they ever get to manage their reef fish on their own. The thing about our data is that it is near real-time. We’ll be able to provide the data to the state by the end of that year. A lot of times with stock assessments, that data is two or three years old before they enter the model. A much more timely assessment can be done if you focus regionally, because the turnaround of the data is so much quicker.” Recreational anglers and charter boat captains have reported catching huge triggerfish during red snapper trips this year, which is encouraging to Powers. “That’s a great sign, because the larger ones are going to produce more eggs,” he said. “Our average size has also increased.” Powers said there may be a connection between the availability of sargassum seaweed and survivability of the juvenile fish.

“Triggerfish are nest guarders,” he said. “The female will lay eggs in the mud or sand around the reef. Those eggs will hatch and float up in the water column. What they really need for protection is floating sargassum. Once they live in the sargassum for the first six months of their lives, then they’re going to recruit to the structure habitat. A lot of us think the ups and downs of the triggerfish fishery can probably be correlated to good and bad sargassum years.” Acting Conservation Commissioner Chris Blankenship said, “The partnership with Dr. Powers and the University of South Alabama has been very rewarding. In 2010 when I became Marine Resources Division Director, my staff and I worked with Dr. Powers to formulate the research priorities that needed to be done to better assess the population of red snapper and other reef fish in our extensive artificial reef zones. Now in our seventh year, we are really seeing dividends from his work. We are very fortunate

to have a marine scientist of his caliber here in coastal Alabama.” Some anglers have also posed the possibility the triggerfish populations have suffered because the abundant red snapper are preying on triggerfish eggs and juvenile fish. Powers, however, said they don’t have the data to support that theory. “We haven’t seen that in the snapper guts we have checked,” he said. “We’ve seen very few triggerfish or vermilion snapper in the red snapper gut contents. It’s been hypothesized that’s been occurring, but the data so far shows that is an infrequent occurrence. “But, gut contents are just a snapshot in time. You really need to be out there when the vermilions or gray triggerfish really recruit heavily to see if they’re part of the prey. Given the gut contents we’ve collected, it doesn’t appear to pose a problem.” However, another species does potentially pose a problem. When the ROV camera dropped down on reefs on a recent research trip, lionfish, an invasive species,

were hanging tightly on the reefs. Lionfish grow to only about 18 inches, but they are very aggressive feeders that compete with the other reef species for prey. “Just as we’ve seen a tripling of triggerfish, we’ve seen a quadrupling of lionfish numbers,” Powers said. “If they’re not preying on juvenile reef fish, they’re at least outcompeting them for food.” With that in mind, the ADSFR created a special category for lionfish, which are rarely caught on hook and line and most often speared by divers. The winner was based on the number of lionfish brought to the scales to promote the removal of as many lionfish as possible. Steve Houghland ran away with the rodeo’s top prize in the category by dropping off an incredible 334 lionfish at the weigh station. David Rainer is employed by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. He writes a weekly column titled Outdoor Alabama Weekly.

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

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DAVID RAINER

Friday, July 28, 2017

REELTOWN HOSTS OTA

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Triggerfish on rapid rebound after season closures

lenty of red snapper, the Alabama Gulf Coast’s premier reef fish, crossed the scales at the 84th annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo (ADSFR) at Dauphin Island last weekend, but one reef species was conspicuously absent for the second year in a row. The gray triggerfish season is closed for all of 2017 because NOAA Fisheries determined the recreational sector exceeded its quota for the past several years. Triggerfish recreational landings in the Gulf were estimated to be 422,436 pounds in 2016. The annual catch limit was 201,223 pounds. If an annual catch limit is exceeded, then the following year’s annual catch limit must be reduced to account for the overage. Because the 2016 estimated triggerfish catch was double the annual catch limit, the payback clause in the regulations left the recreational sector with zero quota for 2017. However, encouraging evidence indicates triggerfish stocks may not be in the dire straits some suggest. Dr. Sean Powers, head of the Marine Sciences Department at the University of South Alabama (USA) and one of the ADSFR judges, said the research work done with grants from the Alabama Marine Resources Division shows a resilient triggerfish population. “We’ve been watching the stock and watching a couple of indices that we measure in state waters,” Powers said. “So, in 2015, it started showing an increase. By 2016, we had a tripling of the level, and so far this year, we expect that it’s just as high.” Powers said two to four triggerfish are found on each of the reefs the USA research team studies. He said triggerfish will be a little higher in the water column and will eagerly take just about any bait dropped down in front of them. A couple of weeks ago, several friends went snapper fishing and had to throw back numerous triggerfish before they hooked their first red snapper. “Triggerfish and snapper are very aggressive,” he said. “Of the two, the triggerfish is going to be the most aggressive, so it makes sense that some anglers are dropping down and catching triggerfish on their red snapper spots.” For the past eight-plus years, the USA Marine Sciences team has deployed an ROV (remotely operated vehicle) to explore the offshore reefs to determine what species inhabit the reefs and in what abundance. “One of the reasons we use video is that video gives us an unbiased view of what’s going on on the reefs because of the competition for the bait,” Powers said. “We use catch data, but we also use the data from the remotely operated vehicles.” Powers said he’s not sure exactly why the triggerfish population off the Alabama coast appears to be rebounding so quickly. “I’m sure the catch limit had something to do with it, but it also may have been that our population of triggerfish off Alabama might have been healthier than what (NOAA Fisheries) expected,” he said. “Remember, the assessment is Gulf-wide. We focus our sampling off Alabama, and Alabama has terrific habitat (more than 15,000 artificial reefs) for reef fish out there.” Another reason Powers is confident with their assessment of the triggerfish is the fish’s See TRIGGERFISH • Page 9

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Above: Reeltown’s linemen take off against Montgomery Academy during Thursday’s organized team activities. Below: Reeltown’s Makevon Hughley runs the football against Montgomery Academy Thursday.

Rebels shy away from 7-on-7s during summer workouts with 7-on-7 when you have eight guys dropping. We’re mainly pro and bone offensively, so that While most high school doesn’t match up with 7-on-7. football teams are hitting 7-onAlso, when you’re doing 7-on7 tournaments throughout the 7, you’re leaving where it starts summer, the Reeltown Rebels out. The offensive and defensive elect to go a different route. And front, that’s where football for one simple reason. starts.” “This is real football,” Matt At Thursday’s OTA, the trio Johnson said about the organized of teams started with one-on-one team activities Reeltown hosted drills and instructional time for on Thursday. offensive and defensive lines Instead of competing in 7-on- and receivers and defensive 7 events, Reeltown participated backs; they split the field to work in two OTAs this summer. The on positional drills. They then Rebels went to Zion Chapel for had 7-on-7 work on one side the first, then hosted Tallassee of the field while the lines did and Montgomery Academy on individual work against each Thursday for the second year in other before coming together for a row. 11-on-11 work. Johnson hopes to keep their The team workouts were home organized team activities exceptionally fast-paced with tradition alive for years to come. each team getting between four “I’m not a big 7-on-7 guy,” and five plays before switching Johnson said. We’re a 3-4 over to defense. defense, so that doesn’t match up “Doing this right here gets By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

everybody working,” Johnson said. “It’s a lot of reps and it’s taxing on them, so this is real football.” With about a month left before the start of the season, expectations are starting to fly for Reeltown with a strong set of returning young skill players. “Expectations are always high,” Johnson said. “Any time I tell you that expectations are low, we need to find something else to do.” He added there’s a “healthy competition” going on between Khoner Davis and Logan Hunt for the starting quarterback job, and there are various other position clashes still ongoing. “There are numerous guys where we won’t know until we get the pads on get after it,” Johnson said. “We’re expecting a lot out of all our players in all three phases of the game. There are lots of guys that are not on

offense or defense that will be key for us in the special teams, so it’s a long list of players that we’re really leaning on.” That’s certainly all the more reason to participate in OTAs, where every player is doing some type of work.

Alex City storms to victory STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Despite being down by a pair of runs in the third inning, Alexander City’s 10U All-Star softball team stormed back for a 6-5 victory over the Nighthawks Elite in the NSA Southern national tournament in

Foley on Thursday morning. Katie Davis and Reagan Taylor had leadoff hits before Macie Knox smacked a double to drive them both in. Raliegh Caldwell grounded out to first to move Knox to third. Trinity McGhee had a strong at-bat, batting several pitches. She eventually hit

a grounder to third, forcing the defense to make a play at first which allowed Knox time to score the eventual winning run. The Nighthawks had just one loss on the season before Thursday. Alex City, which is currently 2-0 in pool play games, plays again Friday at 9 a.m.

Corley Woods continues work during summer walks, and he boasts a perfect 4-0 record. “A lot of times, kids go into During his first season at their freshman year at Division Jacksonville State University, I programs and have to wait Corley Woods, a 2016 Benjamin for their reps,” Staunton coach Russell graduate certainly put in George Laase said. “This league work on the baseball field. gives them a catch to catch up As a reliever, Woods on those reps and springboards appeared in 17 games and them into next year. In threw 24 2/3 innings. But (Corley’s) case, say he might be when the Gamecocks season a weekend relief (at Jacksonville ended, Woods’ work didn’t stop State) and being in this league there. Throughout the summer, might give him a chance to be a Woods has been a pitcher for midweek starter.” the Staunton (Virginia) Braves, Another benefit for Woods a showcase team in the Valley was the Braves gave him a League, which is a Major chance to work on some things League Baseball-sponsored he needed to improve upon. summer ball league designed Woods has a fastball, changeup for student-athletes who have at and slider in his arsenal, but least one year of NCAA baseball one of his biggest focuses this under their belts. summer was perfecting his “My coach at JSU actually slider. wanted me to get about 30 or “Mostly in college, I stick 40 innings this summer so my with my changeup because arm would be ready to throw a that’s my best pitch, and my lot more next year,” Woods said. fastball is pretty reliable too,” “This league gives me a chance Woods said. “My coach (at to face some better batters and Jacksonville) really wanted me better competition.” to work on my slider, and it’s For the Braves, Woods has gotten a lot better. I can control appeared in 18 games, which all three pitchers a lot more than is the second most on the team, I could all (freshman) year.” and started his first game on Woods has also gotten a Wednesday night. He has chance to play on a bit of thrown 32 2/3 innings so far a bigger stage. He said in with about a week left in the Staunton, the fans “treat us like season. Woods has allowed 42 royalty.” Around 1,000 fans hits but only 14 earned runs for swarm the Braves’ games each an ERA of 3.86. He has struck night, which Woods said is more out 19 and allowed only six than he’s used to. By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

Submitted / The Outlook

Corley Woods, a Benjamin Russell graduate, is currently playing for the Staunton Braves, a developmental league sponsored by the MLB in Virginia.

Although Woods hasn’t been to the plate at all this season, Laase said Woods always jokes about wanting to get an at-bat. “It’s just because he’s a gamer and he’s so excited about the game of baseball,” Laase said. “I like to say he’s a spark. He brings a lot of energy. A lot of these players haven’t had a lot of experience playing with each other, so when you have

a guy like Corley, he helps that transition into becoming a team. He helps create chemistry; it’s really one of his hidden talents.” While Woods said he would gladly return to Staunton next summer, he also wouldn’t mind trying out a different developmental league. In the end, it’ll come down to what his coaches at Jacksonville State think is the next best step.