July 8, 2017 Alex City Outlook by Tallapoosa Publishers

Weekend

OOPINION, PINION, PPAGE 4: CITIZENS DESERVE BETTER FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

INSIDE:

The Outlook

Calendar, page 5 Religion, page 6 Classifieds, page 7 Sports, page 12

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

JJulyl 8-9, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 100 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢

Sewage overflow makes it to area creeks Municipal workers expand the emergency retention pond at a pumping station on Nolen Drive Friday afternoon at the site of a sewage spill last week.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

320,000 gallons of sewage was able to escape the sewer system in Alexander City just before the Fourth of July. “We had an overflow,” Alexander City Public Works Director Gerard Brewer said. “We had a significant number.” To put the overflow in context,

the Mobile Area Water and Sewer System had an overflow of up to 18,000,000 gallons last week. “The overflow occurred over about a 48-hour period starting on June 30 and going through July 2,” Brewer said. “The overflow was over a wide area.” Brewer explained the overflow occurred at the Dobbs pumping station at the end of Nolen Drive. The overflow entered Whortleberry

Creek before entering Oaktassa Creek to Hillabee Creek to the Tallapoosa River. “We estimate the character of the waste water when it entered Whortleberry Creek was diluted 20 times or more just because of the excessive rain water in the system,” Brewer said. “It really is because of the excessive rain.

See SEWAGE • Page 10

Thousands in ONCE IN A LIFETIME BLOOM? City to talk Alabama could finances, lose health railroad coverage crossing STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

According to analyses conducted by both the Congressional Budget Office and the Center for American Progress, approximately 22 million Americans would lose their coverage under the current healthcare bill currently being tossed around in the United States Senate. At the same time, wealthy individuals, health insurance companies and drug companies would receive tax breaks from the legislation. “President Trump promised to make health care more affordable and available to more people,” Frank Clemente, the executive director of the organization Americans for Tax Fairness said. “But the Republican healthcare proposals in Congress would slash Medicaid to give massive tax cuts to millionaires, health insurers and drug companies.” In Alabama, nearly half a million people could lose their coverage under the proposed legislation. The Center for American Progress estimated that approximately 310,000 would lose their Medicaid coverage, including 84,300 children, 17,700 people with disabilities and 14,600 senior citizens. Another 170,000 would no longer be covered through the individual insurance market. At the same time, the Center for American Progress calculated 2,500 millionaires in the state would receive an annual tax cut averaging $23,455 per year. See HEALTHCARE • Page 10

Today’s

Weather

88 71 High

Low

Lake Martin

Lake Levels

490.54

Reported on 07/07/17 @ 1 p.m.

LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443

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54708 90050 USPS Permit # 013-080

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Century plant growing and blooming in Red Hill By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Drivers riding along the intersection of Highway 50 and Highway 259 in the Red Hill area have been watching a stalk grow for the last three months. The stalk and resulting bloom are from a Century plant on the property of Jerry and Kimberly Smith, but it has not always been there. “We got it in 2008,” Jerry said. “The guy didn’t want anymore. We were filling in this lot but decided to plant it up front. I told him ‘Don’t dump that yet, I want to plant that up here.’” But a few months ago things started to change for

the plant that looks out of place as a stalk started to grow from the center of it. “It has been growing about three months,” Kimberly said. “It started shooting the stalk up. It took a month and a half to get to the height.” From there the plant started changing again. “It started to bloom as the stalk continued to grow,” Jerry said. “It is finally blooming at the top while the bottom part of the bloom is dying.” From here the Smiths can only guess what will happen to the plant, but they have read up on it. “I read that it is supposed to smell like rotten meat as it dies,” Jerry said. See PLANT • Page 10

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

A Century plant is blooming at After Hours Service at the intersection of Highway 229 and Highway 50. The business is owned by Jerry and Kimberly Smith, who say the plant has been growing since 2008.

The Alexander City City Council will consider acceptance on an audit of the 2014 city finances, hear a presentation of the city’s financial condition by Mayor Jim Nabors and hold a public hearing on the future of the Bibb Street railroad crossing Monday night. In a meeting set for 5:30 p.m. in the courtroom of the city’s Public Safety Building, the council will tackle several issues that touch on a wide range of interests. While the audit report and the mayor’s report on the city’s financial fitness are of interest considering the issues that the city has faced, the rail crossing closure is one that many residents have been interested in. The crossing that is just north of the row of storefronts ending with Alexander City Pawn and across from Piggly Wiggly is used by less than 500 motorists a day and is located only 155 feet from a guarded intersection at Main Street. The move is part of a national initiative by railways to “eliminate redundant and/or unsafe at-grade railroad crossings in order to improve rail and highway safety along rail corridors.” Alexander City Community Development Director Al Jones said when the issue was first raised that the only way that the See COUNCIL • Page 10

11 arrested in recent Narcotic Task Force busts STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Once again the Tallapoosa County Narcotics Task Force has taken illegal drugs off the streets as evidenced by the recent 11 arrests. Thursday and Friday this week, the Tallapoosa County Narcotics Task Force along with the U.S. Marshal Fugitive Task Force, the Tallassee Police Department, the Alexander City Police Department, the Jacksons Gap Police Department,

the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department and the Dadeville Police Department executed search warrants in Dadeville and Jacksons Gap. The warrants were obtained as a result of controlled buys. “It was from an undercover operation over the last couple of months,” said Sgt. Fred White of the Tallapoosa County Narcotics Task Force. The operation netted buys of crack cocaine,

Benson

Alvies

methamphetamines, marijuana and synthetic marijuana. On Thursday and Friday, investigators seized five firearms, a 2002 GMC Yukon and $2,328 in cash.

Heard

Wyckoff

Five individuals were also arrested including: • James Edgar Benson, 54, of Dadeville for unlawful distribution of controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute, certain persons

McKinney

forbidden to possess a firearm, possession of a short barrel shotgun and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Carolyn Alvies, 45, of Dadeville for See ARRESTS • Page 10

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Page 2

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Twins disagree over plan to go their separate ways

Sunday

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Monday

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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

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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 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

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Social Secu ity Ŷ Social Security Disability & SSI Ŷ Personal Injury & Accidents Ŷ Probate Civil Ŷ Uncontested Divorce

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How to Submit Obituaries

Weekend Edition, July 8-9, 2017

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

DEAR ABBY: My twin sister and I are juniors in high school and starting to plan to apply to colleges. It has always been assumed that we would go to the same college and be roommates. My sister still wants it this way. I, however, think it’s finally time for some separation. We’ve been “roommates” our whole lives and shared a bed until we were 14, when Mom finally let us get twin beds for our room. My sister was hurt and upset when I told her I prefer that we go to separate colleges, and she took it personally. It is nothing personal. I love her with all my heart. I would just like to finally be an individual after us having always being known as “the twins.” Our mom agrees with my sister and tells me stories about friends of hers whose kids ended up with “roommates from hell.” She says we have always gotten along beautifully sharing a room, so why argue

DEAR ABBY Advice

with success? Well, I’m willing to take my chances. If I get a roommate I don’t like, I’ll find a way to deal with it. Please give me your opinion. Also, please give me advice on how to make my sister understand that this is nothing against her. -- TWIN SISTER DEAR TWIN SISTER: My mother and my aunt were identical twins. Like you, they shared a room and slept in the same bed for many years. Their parents dressed them alike and gave them names that were mirror images (Pauline Esther and Esther Pauline). Like you, my aunt yearned to be an individual. My mother loved the attention that

being a twin brought. This created serious conflict for them later in life. You deserve the chance to spread your wings and be your own person. If you do, you will grow from the experience, and so will your sister. You should not have to “sell” her on this, but explain it to your sister that way. Your mother should be GLAD that you are independent. DEAR ABBY: I strongly feel this is an issue many women besides me struggle with. Maybe you can offer some insight. My husband and I have been trying to conceive without success for several years. I don’t want to reveal our struggles to friends or family, but how do you handle questions like “Why don’t you have a baby yet?” and “When are you giving me grandkids?” The older we get, the more pointed these questions

become. I don’t know how to respond. What should I say? I feel like either lying and saying I’m not ready yet, or telling the truth about the possibility of never having children, although I’m sure the questioner doesn’t intend to go down the path of “Let’s discuss my fertility.” -- STRUGGLING IN WEST VIRGINIA DEAR STRUGGLING: I’m sure many of the questioners have no idea they are delving into a subject that is painful and frustrating for you. Perhaps the most diplomatic answer would be to say, “If I’m lucky enough to be expecting, I will let you know.” It shows you are open to the possibility, and it’s either going to happen or it won’t. 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.

Ongoing Events GRIEF SHARE: There will be a meeting of Grief Share every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Trinity Campus of First United Methodist Church next door to Russell Medical through June 7. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: Red Red Ridge United Methodist Church in Dadeville hosts an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting every Sunday at 6 p.m. RECYCLING: The Alexander City Recycling Facility is located at the Public Works Department at 824 Railey Road. All materials should be dropped off behind the green storage shed on the Public Works lot. The facility is always open for unassisted drop off. Assistance with drop off is available between 7:00 am until 3:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Please call 256-409-2020 for more information. CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP: Every second and fourth Sunday at 5 p.m. the Trinity campus of First United Methodist Church will be a caregiver support group. Call 256786-1685 for more information. TOPS MEETING: Take Off Pounds Sensibly is the short name for TOPS Club, Inc., the original nonprofit, noncommercial network of weight-loss support groups throughout the U.S. and Canada. TOPS offers tools and programs for healthy living and weight management, with exceptional group fellowship and recognition. Established in 1948 to champion weightloss support and success, we’ve helped millions of people live healthier lives. Come out and visit us. Your first meeting is free. Meetings are held every Thursday @ 6 p.m. at

Comer Baptist Church, 341 E. Church St., Alexander City, AL. Call (256) 4964210 for more information. WOMEN’S MEETING: Victory Temple Holiness Church in Dadeville is hosting a women’s meeting the first Sunday of every month. Men are invited too. VOLUNTEER: Southern Care Hospice is seeking volunteers. Please call Lizz Gillenwaters at 256-2341134 or 256-749-3717 for more information. WOMAN MEETING: Every first Sunday, Victory Temple Holiness Church hosts a women’s meeting, at 237 Aster St. in Dadeville. Everyone is invited. The meeting starts at 2 p.m. READY TO WORK: CACC can prepare you to be Career Ready with a FREE 6 to 8 week Workforce Development Course called Ready to Work. It includes computer self-paced instruction financial planning, reading and math skills, and computer basic skills as well as instructor-led module presentations on communication, problem-solving, job acquisition, operation skills, and workplace behavior. Earn a Career Readiness Certificate and an AIDT Alabama Certified Worker Certificate. The class meets MondayThursday 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Career Center located at 1375 Junior College Drive. For more information, call Melanie Veazey at 256-215-4499 or email at mveazey@cacc.edu. OFFICE CAREERS: The Office Careers Technology program is funded by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and was created to help dislocated workers learn new employable skills. To qualify for the programs be a dislocated worker (layoff) or a low-income family. Anyone interested in the classes should contact the Alexander City Career Center @ 256215-4494 and ask about the WIA program. Most all dislocated workers automatically qualify for financial assistance. The program is 52 weeks and is open entry/open exit. Students learn at their own

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

825-9559 No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

pace in a non-traditional classroom setting. Classes begin when students are approved and they may leave when they receive any or all of the certificates offered. Classes are Monday--Thursday, 8:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m. (with a lunch break). All textbooks and class materials are supplied. Certificates available are receptionist, inventory clerk, data entry clerk, administrative assistant, accounting office clerk, medical office clerk, legal office clerk. COMPUTER LAB: The new and improved computer lab at Cooper Community Center is now open to the community Monday thru Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. LaBrawnski Salter is the new lab facilitator. You can check email, browse the internet, build a resume, complete a project or homework, research, job search and some social media. CELEBRATE RECOVERY: Celebrate Recovery is a Christcentered ministry designed to help hurting people. It is made up of regular folks who are on a journey toward wholeness; seeking recovery from life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups. We meet every Monday at Vertical Point Church, 860 Airport Drive, Alex City. We begin with dinner at 5:45, followed by large group at 6:15 & small groups at 7:15. Childcare is provided. Everyone is welcome. For more info, call Mike at 256-496-4664. CCTS ALUMNI MEETING: The Coosa County Train School and J.D. Thompson alumni association hold monthly meetings the third Saturday of each month. BEYOND TRANSFORMATIONS: Meetings every second Saturday. Have you been wanting to give back, work with youth, or be a part of a group that makes a difference? Please email iamtransforms@gmail. com or Call at 334-4406539. Donations of clothes, food, books, computers, school supplies. A building and donations are needed. AMERICAN LEGION: Post 339 in Cottage Grove is open every Friday night from 8 p.m. until with fried chicken and fish. Music from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. SCV MEETING:The Sons of Confederate Veterans meets every third Tuesday night at 7 p.m. at J.R.’s Sports Bar &

Grill. Visitors are welcome. AMATEUR RADIO CLUB: The Lake Martin Amateur Radio Club meets from 6 to 7 p.m. the second Thursday of every month at the Alexander City Airport Terminal Building with dinner and fellowship following at a local area restaurant. Amateur radio license exams are available after the meeting by prior arrangement. The club also meets on the air (Alabama Emergency Net Victor) on the first, third, fourth and fifth Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. on the club sponsored K4YWE repeater at 145.33 mhz with the 146.96 repeater as backup. All interested can attend our meetings or contact Tim Mayfield K4CWL at 256329-1172 or John Phillips WI4P at 256-212-4063 TALLAPOOSA PATRIOTS: The Tallapoosa Patriots meet the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Professional Commons. For more information contact Sherry Sellers at thyra899@gmail. com or at 256-234-2528. DEMENTIA SUPPORT GROUP: The Emily Gilbert Dementia Support Group for family and caregivers meets the third Monday of every month in the community room at Russell Medical Center from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. It is sponsored by the Russell Medical Auxiliary. For more information call volunteer services office at 256-3297177. FREE SUPPORT GROUP: GriefShare, a grief recovery support group, will meet each Tuesday from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Reception Center of Radney Funeral Home in Alexander City. There is also a meeting on Tuesday at the Tallapoosa County Baptist Association from 10 a.m. to noon. This seminar is offered without cost to participants, and sponsored by Radney Funeral Home and Rocky Creek Baptist Church. For further information and registration, call Larry Cummings at 256397-2511. WEIGHT WATCHERS: The group meets each Monday evening in the fellowship hall of First United Methodist Church on Green Street in Alexander City. The Fellowship Hall is located behind the sanctuary. Registration is 5- 5:30 p.m. Meeting is 5:30-6 p.m. New members will want to stay after the meeting for a 15-minute Weight Watchers orientation.

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Latorre discusses healthcare with Dadeville Kiwanis By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

During its weekly meeting, the Dadeville Kiwanis Club welcomed the Chief of Compliance for Ivy Creek Healthcare, Agustin Latorre. Latorre began his talk discussing how Ivy Creek had grown recently and what the plans were for service expansion in the near future. Currently, the group has three hospitals it runs in Alabama and is looking to add a few more to the system. This includes being in the final stages of an agreement to acquire the hospital in Greenville, the seat of Butler County, according to Latorre. The services offered by the more than one dozen clinics in their system have grown recently as well, and plans are in the works to

continue adding additional services, including a cath lab for patients with heart conditions. Recently, the group was given a highly prized designation, allowing it to offer special services. “On July 3, we received the designation making us a full service provider with the VA,” he said. “It’s a rigorous process to apply for and get this designation. We’re going to refine the process here in Dadeville and expand it to our other facilities.” In addition to more traditional services, Ivy Creek’s Lake Martin Family Medicine Clinic offers free physicals to local camps and school athletic teams, as well as working with Camp ASCCA. Latorre also mentioned how Ivy Creek was looking to branch out and engage in various forms of

community outreach. “We’re planning on putting together a back to school supply drive this year,” he said. “This is our first time doing this.” Following his short talk, several of the Kiwanis members asked Latorre questions about Ivy Creek and how issues such as the changes in Medicaid and the new healthcare bill in Congress could affect the healthcare industry. Due to some of the potential cuts that might have to be made for rural health clinics, Latorre described how these facilities were currently lobbying hard in Montgomery. Thursday’s meeting concluded with several of the Kiwanis Donald Campbell / The Outlook Club members discussing these Ivy Creek Healthcare Compliance Chief Agustin Latorre talks to healthcare topics amongst one the Dadeville Kiwanis Club about future plans for the Ivy Creek another. organization.

Local firm wins settlement in gun lawsuit STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Law firm Morris, Haynes, Wheeles, Knowles & Nelson, with offices in both Alexander City and Birmingham, won a settlement against Taurus USA, a Miamibased subsidiary of Brazilian company Forjas Taurus, in 2016. On June 29, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit upheld the original ruling of the Miami Federal District Court, awarding the plaintiffs in the class-action suit approximately $50 million in damages. In 2013, Deputy Chris Carter of the Scott County, Iowa, Sheriff’s Department was working to arrest an individual. During the process, Carter’s weapon, a Taurus PT140 Millennium PRO pistol fell out of

its holster and, upon hitting the ground, discharged. No injuries were reported as a result of the incident, but the pistol’s safety had been engaged while in the holster and was still engaged when Carter retrieved it from the ground. As a result of the incident, Carter filed a class action suit against Taurus on behalf of himself and other Taurus owners across the county who possessed any of nine faulty Taurus models. Todd Wheeles and David Selby of the law firm Bailey & Glasser represented Carter and the other owners in the suit. The Miami Federal District Court ruled in favor of Carter, awarding around $50 million in damages, and requiring Taurus to allow owners to either return the defective

models for cash or a newer model with an upgraded safety system. The case proceeded to the Court of Appeals because three of the individuals participating in the class action suit challenged the initial settlement, believing the settlement had been unfair, miscalculated the attorney’s fees and could have negative repercussions against the Second Amendment. The 11th Circuit, headquartered in Atlanta, reviewed the challenges brought forth by these three and ruled the challenges were without merit. “This affirmance is another step towards higher standards for safety mechanisms and testing throughout the firearms industry. At the end of the day, we hope this settlement provides safer options for gun owners,” Wheeles said.

IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER FOR UPCOMING 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 21- Alexander City Middle School Open House, 5:30 p.m.

Tallapoosa County Schools: • August 2- Horseshoe Bend Open House (high school), staggered times TBA. • August 3- Horseshoe Bend Open House (elementary school), 5:30-7 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.

Celebrating a

Milestone We would like to thank the following businesses! City of Alexander City Benjamin Russell High School PaPa John’s Pizza Kona Ice Cherokee Quik Stop Lynn’s Quik Stop Buck’s Play House Cinema’s Who’s Diner Movie Rack Top Gun Pest Control Faye Edmondson, Attorney Mason Law Firm Bone & Joint Specialist’s The Medicine Shoppe Radney Funeral Home Pediatric Associates Grace Flowers M. Wendy Holder D.M.D. Sherrer Septic & Construction Mortgage Pro Holley’s Home Furnishing’s Mason Rooﬁng Bed, Bath, & Bark On Realty South – Tapley Team

River Bank & Trust Big B Bar-B-Cue United Arts: Martial Arts Academy & Practical Tactical Protection Center Tapley Appliance Center City Accounting, Bookkeepers Brown Machine & Fabrication Dianne Naler CPA Jackson’s Refrigeration Holman Floor Company Plain & Fancy Cleaners On Site Boat Care Harris Painting Kelly Pemperton & Concrete Toby Bishop Trucking & Excavating Professional Kut Faith Temple G&G Construction Family Worship Center of Alex City A&E Metal Rooﬁng Supply Derrick Blythe Attorney Benton’s Clearing & Grading Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast

T&S Service Center Alex City Independent Methodist Church Sweet Gaga’s Cazadores Mexican Grill Adam’s Nursing Home Gap Fellowship Ministries Russell Medical Center Archer Port-A-Potty Town & Country Cleaners Sam’s Studio Hair Salon Bice’s Motors Tallapoosa Ford Walls Tire Jones Rooﬁng Unique Flowers Forbus Auto Sales AAA General Contractor’s Daniel Industries River of Life Church West End Baptist Church McGhee Mattress & More Tim Phillips Construction Kowaliga Country

The Outlook strives to report the news honestly, fairly and with integrity, to take a leadership role and act as a positive influence in our community, to promote business, to provide for the welfare of our employees, to strive for excellence in everything we do and above all, to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves.

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Opinion Outlook The

MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213 editor@alexcityoutlook.com

Weekend Edition, July 8-9, 2017

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Today’s

Opinion

Quote Holiday memories, new and old Citizens deserve better financial responsibility I Today’s Our View

t has been no secret the city of Alexander City has had its share of financial issues. Residents have heard of missing money, inability to complete a budget and borrowing from reserves to stay in the black. The city has its third finance director in three years and voters elected a whole new slate of elected officials, with one exception, last summer on the promise that they would fix the financial mess. The city has paid two separate accounting firms hundreds of thousands of dollars to try to navigate the maze that the city’s books had become in hopes of getting a fresh financial start. While it sounds simple – making finances a priority – few city officials who are now in office knew the complications and catchup that was needed to get back to ground zero. Work has been non-stop for months, but residents have not gotten a look at the results of that tremendous effort. The results of an audit of the 2014 city budget period was presented in a council work session Thursday and it painted a picture of the issues that accountants say need to be addressed to get the city to where it should be. Jason Harte of Birmingham-based Carr, Riggs and Ingram said the recurring theme was internal control. He said the way the city had handled finances, nor reconciling its books, is an issue that needs to be addressed. “The findings mainly revolve around the monthly reconciliations,” Harte said. “Everything revolves around keeping your records reconciled monthly and up to date. If you every let that get out of hand, it is hard to catch up.” Harte explained the idea using a personal bank account. “It is like if you started to not record or reconcile your personal checkbook and then try to go back three years and get caught up,” Harte said. There were some specifics about issues that need to be addressed, but the big thing that came out of the presentation is a process is needed that is written and in place that everyone knows and can be followed, regardless of who is in office. So the city is getting caught up. Two more sets of numbers are set to go to auditors soon. Mayor Jim Nabors will give his legally mandated presentation of the city’s financial condition Monday night at the council meeting. It’s said it’s hard to get to where you are going until you know where you’ve been. Let’s hope this process will be a memory soon and changes can be made that keep the city on a prosperous financial path for years to come.

ndependence Day holds a lot of great memories for me, obviously because what the day means and symbolizes, but also for the memories I carry from great times I was a part of on that special day. July 4, 2010 was a special one for a much different reason. I was coming out of one of the darkest periods in my life and was in Birmingham in a rehab facility that, along with some incredible friends and loved ones, saved my life. Being away from family on a holiday is always tough, so we talked the staff into allowing us to cook chicken and Boston butts on the grill. About six of us spent 14 hours out there making sure everything was perfect. Grilled corn, potato salad, baked beans and Texas toast completed the feast. I went out and traded yard work at a store in the neighborhood for four watermelons and we iced them down all day. My dear friend Amy and her granddaughter came to visit that night and made ice cream. The smiles on the faces of those men and women as they enjoyed the day was something I will never forget. The Fellowship House is located at the base of the Vulcan and the view was incredible. To see so many people, all who had been dealing with demons of their own, forget their troubles for a few hours and enjoy themselves so much was just great. On July 4, 1997, our family, two young daughters included, spent the weekend in Murphy, North Carolina, with my parents. It was one of the last times that we all got to be together away from home. The girls were 7 and 9

MITCH SNEED Editor

that year and Murphy is a small mountain town that was my father’s home place. They offer some small-town traditions for Independence Day that were just great family fun. There was a field day where the girls competed in hula-hooping, softball throwing, sack racing and finding a needle in a haystack. They racked up and took home a handful of medals and ribbons each. Just being with my folks, who are both gone now, all together watching rafters on the river and fireworks light up the night sky was amazing. It was like all was right with the world. I know my girls still talk about that weekend and smile even today. This year, I added a new one to the list. In the newspaper business, you are always thinking ahead and looking for ways to get a big story or that perfect picture. So after covering the boat parade Tuesday, I went in search of a vantage point that would align with the launch point for the fireworks from The Amp, the boaters on the lake and landmarks that people would recognize. I crossed the Kowaliga Bridge and turned down a road marked PRIVATE DRIVE and NO TRESPASSING on big ‘ol signs. “Maybe no one will shoot me,” I thought. A short way down the road I found some folks in front of a lake cabin cooking

on a massive trailer mounted grill. I stopped the truck in the road and left the motor running as I got out and went to ask a favor. “I’m Mitch Sneed with The Outlook and I was wondering if it would be OK to come back this evening and take pictures of the fireworks out here?” The response I got was not what I expected. “Sure you can. Come a little early and we may have a rib or a chicken leg left.” I couldn’t believe their kindness. It turned out that Linda Howard Keel and her family and friends traditionally have a gathering there every year. You will never meet a better bunch of people. They treated us like family and fed us like kings. You talk about ribs that melt in your mouth, man, those were incredible, and Nana’s Caramel Cake—it was as good as my mother’s. The view of the fireworks was equally spectacular. A few of the pictures were published in the paper and posted online. It would not have been possible without the kindness of those great folks. It was a perfect example of why I tell everyone that you will not find any better people anywhere than right here. Thanks to you all for helping me make another memory. QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Overheard in a Waffle House in Orange Beach from a big sister who was trying to calm down an unruly little brother: “Act like you have some raising.” The Alabama English aside, that is sound advice for all of our young folks.

Mitch Sneed is the editor of The Outlook.

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.

Daily Poll Friday’s question: Will the city’s paving projects affect your daily commute?

No – 73% Yes — 27%

Weekend question: If the presidential election were held again next week, who would you vote for? 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 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.

Officials

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.

alexcityoutlook.com

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.

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.

Scripture

“And so I will show my greatness and my holiness, and I will make myself known in the sight of many nations. Then they will know that I am the Lord.” —Ezekiel 38:23

How to

Know Your

Steve Robinson represents District 2, which includes the southern part of Alexander City, the Cedar Creek area, Ourtown and Willow Point. His phone number Steve Robinson is 256-654-0047. His address is 300 Heritage Drive Alexander City.

“One thing you can’t recycle is wasted time.” —Harold V. Melchert

What’s your

Opinion?

Letter to the Editor

Science: Both wonderful and dreaded

Dear Editor,

While reading through The Outlook, I came across an editorial concerning how great science is. As with any subject there are always two sides to the story. Only one side was expressed in this particular editorial and a couple of the numbered points were not presented well at all. To start, the Clean Water Act did start the country thinking about ecological conservation. Here is where I disagree with the author: Coal mining is one of the safest industries in this country as evidenced by the low incident rate of accidents. At the time Barack Hussein Obama shut down the coal industry destroying jobs, families and businesses, the majority of the coal mined in this country was being sold to other countries. The coal had no effect on our air qual-

ity. The air scrubbers you talk about were built specifically to remove that foul smelling sulfur and any heavy metals you speak of. So far, climate change has been proven to be a normal event with mother earth cycling through warm to colder trends. The media and the “green is the new red” i.e. socialist expound — this theory ignores the truth in an attempt to create anarchy. Global warming is a farce. The truth is at any given time there are at least 75 active volcanoes on our planet. On any given day these volcanoes spew more carbon dioxide in to the atmosphere than man has produced in the last 100 years. This is to include all automobiles. My questions to the author: Do rich people cars put more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than poor people?

Where do the rich play into this? Now, vaccines. W.H.O. (the World Health Organization) killed two generations of Africans with immunizations tainted with AIDS. Way to go, WHO. I do believe a large number of the individuals who died at the hands of the Nazis in the Holocaust was in the name of science. So the next time you want to write about a subject, do a little more research and just maybe more than one political perspective. Cow farts, REALLY? And now a little shout-out to David Granger on his piece on LOVE and the country. David, that was pretty good for a liberal. Woody Baird Alexander City De Opresso Liber

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!

On the Web

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.

Weekend Edition, July 8-9, 2017

CommunityCalendar SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

This weekend is July 8-9, 2017 Today’s Events

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700

NIGHT HIKE: Wind Creek State Park is hosting a night hike July 8 at 7:30 p.m. under the light of the full moon to learn about nocturnal animals and how they survive in the dark weather permitting. YOUTH FOOTBALL CAMP: Bridge Builders will be hosting a youth football camp for grades first through eighth July 8 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.

Today’s Birthdays

Ginger Patten, Sawyer Scott and David Moseley are celebrating birthdays today.

Sunday’s Events

WELLNESS DAY: The Beacon of Joy Seventh Day Adventist Church is hosting a community health and wellness day at Strand Park July 9 from 3 -6 p.m. There will be live performances, family fun and healthy snacks. For more information, call 256-749-5943. FAMILY REUNION: The Willoughlby Reunion will be Sunday, July 9 at the Daviston Community Center. All family and friends are wel-

Page 5

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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/. come.

Sunday’s Birthdays

Wilma Sasser, Polly Anderson, Kayla Tharpe, Rachel Coker, Lamar Dennis, Charles Fleming, Brenda Young, Crista Ford and Felicecia Johnson celebrate their birthdays Sunday.

The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow

Monday’s Birthdays

LaResa Griffin, Virginia Rainwater, Madison Moncrief, Skylar Taunton, Roulain Harrell, Kaleigh Brooklyn Wright, Justin Newman, Skylar Owens, Ordie Smith and Molly Boswell celebrate their birthdays Monday.

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

haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

Need Insurance?

PRECIOUS MEMORIES

Call me.

GIFTS & MORE Monogramming onogramming Boutique outique Clothing Clothing Jewelry ewelry Bathing athing SSuits uits & More More 10147 County Road 34 Dadeville, AL

256.234.3481

256-496-4017

KarenChannell.com

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Alexander City Theatre II (ACT II) is presenting “Our Town” at The Arbor at First United Methodist Friday, July 14 at 7 p.m., Saturday, July 15 at 7 p.m., Thursday, July 20 at 7 p.m., Saturday, July 22 at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 23 at 2 p.m. as part of Sun Festival. Tickets are $15.

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

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

July 10-11

THROW AWAY DAY: The Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership is partnering with the Tallapoosa County Commission to provide dumpsters for public use at the following locations on Monday, July 10 through Tuesday, July 11. The dumpsters will be at the Alexander City Annex– 395 Lee St., Double Bridges– Highway 63, Eagle Creek Fire Department– 90 Old Shepard Rd., Camp Hill Town Hall– 309 Holley Ave. and StillWaters Entrance– Highway 49 Items that can not be placed in the dumpsters include: liquids, appliances with compressors, tires, batteries, light bulbs, TVs, computers, propane tanks, hazardous or medical waste.

July 10-12

CHURCH REVIVAL: Liberty United Methodist Church in Hackneyville is hosting revival July 10-12 at 7 p.m. Rev. Mike Densmore, Rev. Josh Sammons and Rev. James Long will be delivering messages. Everyone is welcome.

July 10-14

ART CAMP: The Kitty Dark Kids Art Camp will be July 10-14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Radney School for children in grades 1 through 6. The cost is $125 and includes all supplies, lunch, snack and t-shirt. For more information contact Jamie Dark at 256-794-0688.

256.267.0518 Many a small thing

has been made

large...

Tuesday, July 11

USHER MEETING: There will be an Early Rose District Usher meeting July 11 at 5 p.m. at the Early Rose District Center.

July 11-14

...with the right kind of advertising.

ANNUAL SESSION: Early Rose District Congress of Christian Education is holding its 58th Annual Session July 11-14 at 9 a.m. daily at the Great Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

Thursday, July 13

•Alexander City Outlook •Dadeville Record •Wetumpka Herald •Eclectic Observer •Tallassee Tribune

256.234.4281

How to add a calendar item: Participate in your

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

By e-mailing your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or call 256-234-4281. _____ Send your news items to editor@alexcityoutlook.com

FRIENDS OF LIBRARY: The next meeting of the Friends of the Dadeville Public Library will be July 13 at 1 p.m. All are invited to see how they can be involved in our community library.

July 13-15

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Family Worship Center on Sewell Street is hosting Vacation Bible School July 13-14 from 6-8:30 p.m. and July 15 from 9 a.m. to noon with a parents program July 15 at 11 a.m.

July 13-16

KIDS AND YOUTH CAMP: The Tallapoosa Baptist Association camps will be held July 13-16 at Camp Alamisco on Lake Martin. Youth Camp is for those who have completed grades 7-12. Kids Camp is for those who have completed grades 3-6. The theme is “Following Jesus.” Jeremy Simpson of FBC, Alex City will be the camp pastor. Campers will enjoy playing crazy games, kayaking, swimming, “the blob,” crafts, skits and much more. The cost until June 23 is $85 per camper. After that, the cost is $95 per camper. The final deadline to register is June 30. Registration forms can be down-

loaded at www.tallapoosabaptist.org under the Resource tab. For more information, please call 256-8254441.

Friday, July 14

MOVIE NIGHT: River of Life Worship Center is hosting a movie night July 14. God’s Not Dead II will start at 7:30 p.m. Concessions will be sold.

Saturday, July 15

TRADE DAY: Bibb Graves High School Alumni Monthly Trade Day in Millerville on Highway 9 between Ashland and Goodwater will be held on July 15 from 7:00 until 2:00. Refreshments are also available. BOOK SALE: Friends of the Dadeville Public Library is having its summer book sale July 15 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. You can fill up a bag of books and get it for $5. Hardback books are $1 and paperbacks are 50 cents.

Sunday, July 16

HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Tallapoosee Historical Meeting on Sunday, July 16 at 2 p.m. features talks about the restoration of Smith Mountain Fire Tower and the proposed Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association education center at the Tower. The meeting will take place at the Society’s museum on the town square in Dadeville. Refreshments will be served. Public is invited. CHURCH HOMECOMING: New Hope Baptist Church on Highway 63 South is hosting a homecoming Sunday, July 16 at 10:30 a.m. All for Him will be singing and covered dish follows at noon. For more information call Lou Ann Fuller at 256-392-5218.

July 16- 19

CHURCH REVIVAL: God’s House Church on Highway 63 is holding revival July 16 at 6 p.m. and July 17-19 at 6:30 p.m. The guest speaker will be Bro. Ton Harris. The pastor of God’s House Church is Bro. Roger Green.

Tuesday, July 18

RETIREE MEETING: The Tallapoosa County Education Retirees will meet Tuesday, July 18 at 10 a.m. at Catherine’s Market. The program will be on pre-paid funeral arrangements.

July 19

FIELD AND FOREST HIKE: Wind Creek State Park is hosting a field and forest hike July 19 at 9 a.m. The walk is for all ages. Meet at the outdoor classroom across from the beach.

Friday, July 21

MOVIE NIGHT: River of Life Worship Center is hosting a movie night July 21. The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry will start at 7:30 p.m. Concessions will be sold.

Saturday, July 22

STARGAZING: The Auburn Astronomical Society will set up telescopes to look at the night sky July 22 at 6 p.m. on Hospice Point near the silo at Wind Creek State Park. BINGO NIGHT: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have Family Game Night Bingo from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m.

Saturday July 22. Begin with hot dogs, pizza, chips, and soft drinks.

Sunday, July 23

CHURCH HOMECOMING: Rock Springs Baptist Church in Jacksons Gap is hosting homecoming July 23 at 10 a.m. Pastor Jamey Williams will bring the message and The Dyes will provide the music. Dinner will be served and everyone is invited.

Hardwood Floors Ceramic Tile Carpet & Vinyl Locally Owned for Over 45 Years

256-234-6071

1945 Hwy 280 • Alexander City

Wednesday, July 26

FIELD AND FOREST HIKE: Wind Creek State Park is hosting a field and forest hike July 26 at 9 a.m. The walk is for all ages. Meet at the outdoor classroom across from the beach.

Thursday, July 27

GOSPEL QUARTET: The Carolina Boys Quartet will be at the Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium July 27 . Doors open at 6 p.m. and the concert begins at 7 p.m. The concert is presented by Radney and Langley funeral homes and admission is one non-perishable food item donation to benefit the Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Center and Loaves and Fishes.

Friday, July 28

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.

Saturday, July 29

$500 GIVEAWAY: The Goodwater Disable Veterans Organization is having a $500 giveaway July 29 at 2 p.m. at the Goodwater Disabled Veterans Organization, 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 256-8616177. Proceeds will be used to help feed Veterans. YOUTH FOOTBALL CAMP: Bridge Builders will be hosting a youth football camp for grades first through eighth 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.

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Wednesday, August 2

OPEN HOUSE: Horseshoe Bend School is hosting an open house for high school students. Time is to be determined.

Thursday, August 3

OPEN HOUSE: Horseshoe Bend School is hosting an open house for elementary school students Aug. 3 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. OPEN HOUSE: Dadeville Elementary School is hosting an open house for elementary school students Aug. 3 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. OPEN HOUSE: Reeltown Elementary School is hosting an open house for elementary school students Aug. 3 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. OPEN HOUSE: Reeltown High School is hosting an open house for high school students Aug. 3 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

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Page 6

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Weekend Edition, July 8-9, 2017

The Outlook

In Community, We Share Tallapoosa County Devotional Page

SECURITY Grace’s Flowers and Gifts PEST CONTROL

“Since 1962”

652 Cherokee Road • Alexander City

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blessing and to be blessed! oday is unique! It has We just celebrated the 4th never occurred before of July, our Freedom of and it will never be Independence Day. repeated. You will never Thanking the Lord and talk or walk today’s path honoring those who have again. And, during today’s and who are, sacrificing 24 hours there will be many their lives for our freedom. opportunities to be shared ”Let us not get tired of and conquered…so live Carol Page doing what is right.” today to the fullest as if it Good News And, above and beyond were your last day on earth!” Baptist Church all else, our Lord sacrificed (Quote unknown) “everything” so that we who The Word says, “…let know Him personally, can live a life us not get tired of doing what is of freedom. right, for after awhile we will reap We are free in our country a harvest of blessings if we don’t because of those who fought, and are get discouraged and quit!” (Gal.6:9) fighting for us and we are free in our There is so much to do for Jesus, for personal lives because of what Jesus His honor, glory and praise! Don’t get discouraged and quit! As the song Christ did for us! Again, “let us not get tired of says take, “one day at a time.” Give Him time to speak to you and doing what is right…don’t get discouraged…don’t quit!” to use you! Beware of temptations Today, is unique…give God the that may confront you, because Satan glory for the great things He hath is alive and well on planet earth! done. But, the “power” of Christ in you is Love you my friends and have a greater than the power of this world! blessed day! Be an encouragement to others today…your words, written or Carol Page is a member of Good spoken, could be just what someone News Baptist Church and a regular needs in their life at this moment… faith columnist. don’t give up the opportunity to be a

Ourtown, Alabama

256-329-8306 8:00-4:00 Monday-Friday By Appointment (except emergencies) Phone: (256) 234-4295 After Hours: (256) 329-7100

TEMPLE MEDICAL CLINIC, P.C. YOUR FAMILY CARE CENTER Medicine, Office Surgery, Pediatric and Industrial JAMES P. TEMPLE, M.D. 859 Airport Drive TIMOTHY J. CORBIN, M.D. Alexander City, AL VINCENT LAW, M.D.

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Compliments of Mayor Jim Nabors and City Employees

ALEXANDER CITY HOME OF LAKE MARTIN

ELIZABETH HOMES LLC MAGGIN EDWARDS, MANAGER 5639 Elmore Road | Elmore, AL

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This devotional and directory made possible by these businesses who encourage all of us to attend worship services!

Church Directory

Rehab • Long-Term Care • Assisted Living 3701 Dadeville Road Alexander City

256-234-6366

A.M.E. Saint James A.M.E. Goodwater, 256-839-1007 St. John A.M.E. Off Hwy. 280 on Hwy. 9 Socopatoy, (256) 215-3532

1326 Dadeville Road Alexander City, AL Member by Invitation Selected Independent Funeral Homes www.radneyfuneralhome.com

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River of Life Worship Center 407 Hillabee St., Alex City, 256-329-9593

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TALLASSEE AUTOMOTIVE 1618 Gilmer Avenue • Tallassee, AL (334) 262-2544 www.tallasseeautomotive.com

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Homemaking • Personal Care • Companionship For elderly and disabled individuals needing assistance with activities of daily living. LAKE MARTIN INNOVATION CENTER 175 ALIANT PARKWAY • ALEXANDER CITY, AL • (256) 414-6090

1144 Airport Drive Alexander City, AL HOURS: M-F 8 AM - 6 PM Sat. 8 AM - 12 PM Sherry Richardson, R. Ph.

256.215.8014

In Need Of

Volunteers & Donations The New Community Center Providing Emergency Shelter, Counseling & Job Placement.

VOLUNTEER Please Contact Lonnie • 256-794-1519

Pleasant Grove Church of Christ 1819 Bay Pine Rd, Jackson’s Gap

Pleasant Valley Missionary Baptist 835 Valley Rd., Camp Hill 334-257-4442

Mt. Carmel Baptist 3610 Dudleyville Rd., Dadeville

Southview Church of Christ 2325 Dadeville Rd., Alex City 256-329-0212

Rocky Mt. Baptist New Site community Seleeta Baptist Booker St., Alex City 256-329-2685 Shady Grove Baptist Jackson’s Gap Community

INDEPENDENT BAPTIST Liberty Baptist 1365 Hillabee St., Alex City 256-329-8830 New Life Baptist County Road 14, Alex City, 256-329-2635 Victory Baptist 280 By-Pass, Alex City

Mt. Zion Baptist Hwy. 63 South, Alex City 256-234-7748

CHURCH OF GOD Alex City No. 2 A.C.O.P. Church of God Local Street, Alex City

New Beginning Baptist 1076 Coley Creek Rd.

Bread of Life A.C.O.P. Church of God Hwy. 280, Kellyton

New Concord Baptist Off hwy. 49, Dadeville, 256-825-5390

Cedar Street Church of God 711 Martin Luther King Blvd. Alex City

New Elkahatchee Baptist Elkahatchee Rd., Alex City 256-329-9942

The Great Bethel Missionary 520 Christian St., Alex City 256-234-5513

New Hope Baptist Lake Martin, off Hwy. 63 256-329-5218

Dadeville Church of God 425 Horseshoe Bend Rd. (Hwy. 49 N.) Dadeville 256-825-8820

Unity Baptist Robinson Rd., Alex City

New Life Baptist Jackson’s Gap, 256-825-6190 / 256-329-2635

Marshall Street Church of God 428 Marshall Street, Alex City 256-234-3180

New Pine Grove Baptist Off Hwy. 22, Perryville

New Faith Tabernacle A.C.O.P. Church of God “J” Street

Zion Hill Missionary Baptist 583 S. Broadnax St., Dadeville BAPTIST – SOUTHERN Bay Pine Baptist 1480 Bay Pine Rd. Jackson’s Gap, 256-825-4433

West End Baptist Off 280 West, 256-234-2130

256-234-2511 1-800-285-3881

Mountain Springs Baptist Off Hwy. 22, Daviston

Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Alexander City, 256-234-6972

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD Cedar Street Church of God 703 E. Boulevard, Alex City Faith Assembly of God 590 Horseshoe Bend Rd., Dadeville 256-825-7741

For All Your Pet Healthcare Needs Susan A. Martin, MS DVM 2630 Dadeville Rd., Alexander City (256) 329-9900

Pleasant Home Baptist Clay County

New Providence Baptist Pearson Chapel Rd., Alex City

New Harvest Ministries Church of God Hwy 280 & Coosa 28 256-329-2331

BAPTIST – MISSIONARY Bethlehem Baptist New Site

Bethany Baptist Church Bethany Road

New Rocky Mount Baptist 670 Peckerwood Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-794-3846

Cross Key Baptist Hackneyville, 256-329-9716

Bethel Baptist Smith Mt. Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-825-5070

New Salem Road New Site Rd., New Site, 256-234-2932

Darian Missionary Baptist Church Pearson Chapel Rd., Alex City 256-329-3865

Beulah Baptist Smith Mt. Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-825-9882

Old Providence Baptist Off Hwy. 63 N., near Hackneyville

The Church of God 13th Ave. N., Alex City 256-329-1696

Elam Baptist Robertson Rd. Alex City

Calvary Baptist 819 Main St., Dadeville, 256-825-5989

Old Union Baptist 1106 Davis Circle 256-596-1873

Washington Street A.C.O.P. Church of God Washington Street

Orr Street Baptist 1000 “O” Street (Hwy. 63N) Alex City, 256-234-3171

CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY Church of God of Prophecy 303 Poplar Rd., Alex City, 256-234-6941

Early Rose Baptist 201 E Street, Alexander City Flint Hill Baptist Hwy. 280, Dadeville

Calvary Heights Baptist Elkahatchee, Rd., Alex City 256-234-7224

Friendship Baptist Our Town Community, 256-329-5243

Camp Hill Baptist Downtown Camp Hill, 256-896-2811

Hollins Springs Baptist Hwy. 280, Goodwater

Comer Memorial 941 E. Church St., Alex City 256-234-2236

Jackson’s Gap Baptist Church 21 East Church St. 256-825-6814

Daviston Baptist Daviston, 395-4327 Eagle Creek Baptist Hwy. 49, Dadeville, 256-825-6048

Liberty Church 1034 Liberty Church Rd. Willow Point Alex City Macedonia Baptist Macedonia Circle, Goodwater 256-839-5793 Marietta Baptist Goodwater

Fellowship Baptist Buttston Community Fellowship Primitive Baptist Church on Claybrook Drive, Alex City 256-839-5339 First Baptist Court Square, Alex City 256-234-6351

Miracle Missionary Baptist 1687 “I” Street 256-215-9788, 256-215-9787

Mt. Olive Baptist Hwy. 280 & Jct. 49, Goodwater Mt. Sinai Baptist Fish Pond Rd., Coosa County 256-329-2337 Mt. Zion Baptist Hwy. 22, New Site Mt. Zion East StillWaters Dr., 256-825-4991

New Bethel Baptist Rock St., Dadeville, 256-825-7726 Peace & Goodwill Baptist Cottage Grove Community Alexander City, 256-377-4634 Pine Grove Baptist Eagle Creek Rd., Dadeville

Ray Baptist Rockford Hwy., Alex City, 256-234-7609 River Road Baptist 148 Dean Rd., Alex City, 256-234-6971 Rocky Creek Baptist Samford Rd., Cowpens Community Rocky Mount Baptist Hwy. 22 E., Alex City, 256-329-2327 Rock Springs Baptist Jackson’s Gap, 256-839-6263 Russell Farm Baptist Hwy. 63 beyond Our Town

Haven United Methodist 354 Christian St., Alex City 256-329-8394 Hillabee Campground UMC 120 CC Road, Alex City Sunday School 10am Sunday Service 11am Kellyton U.M., Kellyton, 256-329-1681 Liberty United Methodist Liberty Rd., Hackneyville Mt. Godfrey New Site New Site U.M. New Site, 256-234-7834

Sunnylevel United Methodist 3202 Hwy. 63N, Alex City 256-234-6877 Trinity United Methodist 280 By-pass, Alex City, 256-234-2455 Union United Methodist 4428 Hwy. 50, Dadeville 256-825-2241 METHODIST – INDEPENDENT Daviston Independent Methodist Daviston, 395-4207 PENTECOSTAL Pentecostals of Dadeville 115 West Columbus Street Dadeville, 256-596-3411

EPISCOPAL Saint James Episcopal Church 121 South Central Ave., Alex City 256-234-4752

First Presbyterian Okefuske, Dadeville, 256-825-4081 Robinson Memorial Presbyterian Robinson Rd., Alex City UNITED PENTECOSTAL Alex City Apostolic 3708 Robinson Rd., Alexander City, 256-329-1573 INDEPENDENT Faith Temple Franklin Street, Alex City, 256-234-6421

Kellyton Revival Center Co. Road 87 South Kellyton

Hillabee Baptist Hillabee Rd., Alex City 256-234-6798

Town Creek Baptist Camp Ground Rd., Alex City

Liberty Life Christian Center 321 “S” Street, Alex City

Horseshoe Bend Baptist Hwy. 280, Dadeville

Wayside Baptist 21 Wayside Circle, Alex City 256-234-5564

Passion Church 3340 Hwy. 63 N., Alex City 256-409-9590

Zion Hill Baptist Hwy. 79, near Horseshoe Bend

The Family Worship Center 365 Scott Road, Alex City

CATHOLIC St. John the Apostle 454 N. Central Ave., Alex City 256-234-3631

METHODIST – UNITED Alexander City Methodist 11th Ave. N., Alex City 256-329-1284

CHURCH OF CHRIST Alex City Church of Christ 945 Tallapoosa St., Alex City 256-234-6494

Bradford Methodist Hwy. 9, Goodwater

New Bethel Fellowship Church 5474 Rock Springs Road Jackson’s Gap 256-825-3367

Comer Memorial U.M. 427 East Church St., 256-329-3467

The Baha’I Faith 740 Newell Street, Camp Hill 256-896-4007

Duncan Memorial U.M. 3997 Hillabee Rd., Alex City 256-234-6708

The Word Bible Church 161 Main St., Alex City, 256-215-5646

Lake Pointe Baptist 8352 Hwy. 50W, Dadeville Lebanon Baptist Mt. Carmel Rd., Dadeville, 256-234-7541

Dadeville Church of Christ East LaFayette St., Dadeville Meadows St. Church of Christ 306 Meadows St., Alex City

SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law

135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL

256-825-9559 No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

6684 Hwy. 49 South Dadeville, AL •••

256-825-4827

Sunny Level Baptist Church Sunny Acres Subdivision Sewell Street

Lake Martin Baptist Hwy 34, Dadeville 256-825-7434

Eat At . . .

Tailgating & Catering Available

Fellowship Revival Center Mission 316 6th Ave., Alex City 256-329-1510 weekends

Kendrick Baptist Church Nixburg

Call Will or John Dark Today (256) 234-5026

Red Ridge United Methodist 8091 County Road 34, Dadeville 256-825-9820

PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian 371 Jefferson St., Alex City 256-329-0524

House of Restoration Holiness 519 Slaughter Ave., Camp Hill, 256-749-2373, 256-896-2904

DARK INSURANCE AGENCY

Pearson Chapel U.M. Pearson Chapel Rd., Alex City

CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE Dadeville Church of the Nazarene Corner Hwy. 280 and 49, 256-825-8191

HOLINESS Alex City Emmanuel Holiness Hillabee St., Alex City

256.329.7400

Goodwater U.M. Main St., Goodwater, 256-839-6661

Sixth Street Baptist Sixth St., Alex City, 256-234-2408

Good News Baptist Church 10493 Hwy. 280, Jackson’s Gap 256-825-2555 Hackneyville Baptist Hwy. 63 N., Hackneyville

Kellyton Baptist Kellyton, 256-329-1512

New Elam Baptist Hwy. 9, Burtonville, 256-234-2037

Pine Grove Baptist Camp Hill

Flint Hill U.M., Alex City 256-234-5047

FULL GOSPEL Dadeville Foursquare Gospel Church Old 280 By-pass

Jackson’s Gap Baptist Jackson’s Gap, 256-825-4951

Mt. Zion West Our Town Community, 256-234-7748

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 1515 Worthy Road, Alex City (Corner of Worthy Place and Dadeville Road)

BANKING ON VALUES

First United Methodist Dadeville, 256-825-4404

Sandy Creek Baptist Alex City

First Baptist Tallassee St., Dadeville, 256-825-6232

Mt. Calvary Baptist 329 King St., Alex City, 256-234-5631

Perryville Baptist Perryville, 256-234-3588

Pentecostal Church of God 163 Franklin Street, Alex City 256-215-4055

First United Methodist 310 Green St., Alex City 256-234-6322

Family Worship Center 1676 Sewell Street 256-839-6895 First Congregational Christian 11th Ave. South, Alex City GAP Fellowship Ministries P.O. Box 1571, Alex City God’s House 9334 Hwy 63N, Alex City Roger Green Sun. Service: 11:00 & 6:00 Wed. Bible Study: 6:30 Jehovah-Jireh Ministries 252 Tallapoosa St., Alex City 256-215-4211 Leap of Faith Outreach Ministry 886 Terrance Drive, 256-234-7119

G. Daniel Brown

Quality T& S Automotive Automotive Repairs & Service Open Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 256.329.9423 141 Lee Street • Alexander City, AL OWNER: ANTHONY GREEN

Wright’s Funeral Home 256/234-6355

JACKSON REFRIGERATION CO., INC.

HEATING & COOLING Our Name is Our Reputation and “Your Comfort is Our Priority!”

256/234-4457 or 256/496-3850 10390 AL Hwy. 259 Alexander City, AL (256) 215-5586 www.southernstarfarm.us STORE HOURS: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

– FINANCING AVAILABLE – Sales • Service • Installation P.O. Box 103, Alex City, AL (256) 329-8488

• Updated Pro Shop • Junior Golf Program • Annual Tournaments • Weekly Matches

ATTORNEY AT LAW 926 Cherokee Road Alexander City, AL

18 Holes of Golf - 7 Days a Week

256-329-1552

95 County Rd. 40 (Off Hwy. 280)

256-825-9860

Weekend Edition, July 8-9, 2017

The Outlook

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Plant

continued from page 1

Council

continued from page 1

The Century plant is similar to the agave plant that tequila is made from. But tequila cannot be made from the Century plant that lives 10 to 30 years. The stalk seen from the Smiths’ plant, usually comes near the end of the plants life cycle. The Smiths have been able to grow more of the Century plants as they now have several growing along the edge of the road. “There are few of the ones we have planted,” Kimberly said. “The ones we planted are suckers from the big one.” Their studies have lead the Smiths to some other facts about the Century plant. “Out West, they are abundant,” Jerry said. “They are like kudzu to them. They grow in clusters out there. Once they start you almost can’t get them to stop.” But one thing might prevent Century plant from taking over the Lake Martin area. “They like to grow in the desert,” Jerry said. “We have too much water Cliff Williams / The Outlook and the soil is too clayish for them.” The Smiths planted this Century plant a few years ago and it already has shoots growing from it.

city would go along with the closure would be with the guarantee from Norfolk Southern that it would enable the establishment of a quiet zone where trains would no longer have to blow whistles as they come through town. The complete agenda includes: • A resolution to acknowledge receipt and acceptance of the 2014 Fiscal Year Audit report by Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC. • A resolution to approve a onetime bonus for retirees. • A resolution to amend the budget to rebuild a gearbox and replace the gears within a 50hp aerator located at Sugar Creek Waste Water Treatment. • A resolution to authorize the mayor to request and receive AMEA funds for the Smart Grid Initiative. • A resolution to authorize the mayor to sign necessary contracts with Stewart Engineering for preparation and general construction for the 15KV substation breakers at U.S. Highway 280 and Willow Street Substation. • A request from Alabama B.A.S.S. Nation, Inc.: High School Lake Martin Qualifier February 2-3, 2018 • A request from Alabama Student Angler Bass Fishing Association (ASABFA) tournaments: Feb. 2018 or May 2018 • A report from Mayor Jim Nabors on the financial condition of the city.

Arrests

Healthcare

continued from page 1

possession with intent to distribute, certain persons forbidden to possess a firearm, possession of a short barrel shotgun, possession of drug paraphernalia. • Michael Heard, 46, of Jacksons Gap for two counts of unlawful distribution of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana 1st degree and possession of Burroughs drug paraphernalia. Joseph Peoples • Terry Wyckoff, 46, of Jacksons Gap including: for unlawful distribution of a controlled • Demetrius Burroughs, 22, of substance, possession of controlled Alexander City for five counts of unlawful substance and possession of drug distribution of controlled substance and paraphernalia. possession of controlled substance. • Kilpatrick McKinney, 34, of Kellyton • Tiffany Joseph, 29, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of marijuana for possession of marijuana 1st degree, 1st degree and failure to appear warrant. possession of controlled substance and The task force was busy in the month possession of drug paraphernalia. of June as they seized over 1,600 grams of • Leonard Peoples, 37, of Alexander marijuana, 20 grams of methamphetamines City for possession of marijuana 1st and $3,100 in cash. degree, possession of controlled substance Six individuals were arrested in June

Hall

Burt

and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Damien Hall, 36, of Jacksons Gap for possession of controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Samantha Marchand, 29, of Dadeville for possession of controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Michael Burt, 38, of Goodwater for possession of marijuana 1st degree, possession of controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sewage Without the rain, I don’t think we would have had the problem.” Brewer explained the months of rain has strained the system. “We had 6.7 inches of rain in the two days immediately preceding it,” Brewer said. “That is on top of the 28 inches in the last two months. The reason that is significant is that the 28 inches raise the water table. “All those cracks in the lines take on water and the system begins to fill up and when you get a flash flood there is nowhere for it to go.” Brewer explained that they made a decision to let the system use the emergency retention pond at the Dobbs facility. “We knew we were going to have an overflow,” Brewer said. “We made a decision to keep the wet well down which allowed the gravity line to continue to deliver so it would not back up into peoples yards. What we actually overflowed was an emergency retention pond that way it did not back up into peoples yards.” Brewer explained that they did sampling immediately along the route to the river and that the numbers never got out of line at the river and have gone back to normal. The Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) is already aware of the overflow and this sampling and the results will be part of a larger report to be submitted to them. Brewer explained that the public works department is

Marchand

continued from page 1

“Many working families in Alabama will find it a lot harder to access health care. President Trump needs to support Medicaid, not millionaires,” Clemente said. In a similar study, the Congressional Budget Office found the repeal of the Net Investment Income Tax contained within the 2009 Affordable Care Act would cost $172 billion over a 10-year period.

Many a

small thing

has been made

large..

continued from page 1

...with the right kind of advertising. Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Municipal workers expand the emergency retention pond at a pumping station on Nolen Drive Friday afternoon at the site of a sewage overflow last week.

working on solutions to the overflow. “We are working on three things in response to this,” Brewer said. “We have an emergency storage basin down there. We are enlarging it by at least a factor of two. So when that wet well gets full we can pump to a holding pond and it never gets into the environment. We will have it finished in the next few days. “We are finding out what we need to do to upsize that pumping station. And the long-term solution is replacement of the pipes.” Replacing pipes in the

system is something that is both costly and time consuming. “It is the cracks in the pipes that is leading to the problem,” Brewer said. “That is a long lead time project. We could spend $5,000,000 and not see any of the work that is being done. It is a 10 to 15 year project.” Overflows are somewhat common to any sewer system – especially when crews have to work on the system. “You get a call from a resident and sewage is backing up into their

house,” Brewer said. “You see it overflowing from the manhole. You look around and there is a busted pipe or a root blocking something. Those typical overflows that we have to report about 100 to 1,000 gallons.” Brewer explained that even those overflows are going down in Alexander City. “We are under an EPA consent decree and have been since November 2014,” Brewer said. “We were having about 60 of those overflows a year. We are now down to 13 or 14 a year.”

•Alexander City Outlook •Dadeville Record •Wetumpka Herald •Eclectic Observer •Tallassee Tribune

256.234.4281

Weekend Edition, July 8-9, 2017

The Outlook

Your Future Matters to Us.

Poarch is proud to be a partner in Alabama’s progress. We have a tradition of including others. Poarch provides more than 13,000 jobs to Alabamians, pays millions in state taxes each year, and makes charitable contributions reaching nearly $8 million annually. Strong communities can help build a better life for all. ALABAMA NATIVES. ALABAMA NEIGHBORS. PoarchNeighbors.com pci-nsn.gov 251.368.9136

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

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Weekend Edition, July 8-9, 2017

www.alexcityoutlook.com

LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

One season ends, another begins

his All-Star season posed a bit of a challenge for me. My first day at the Alexander City Outlook allowed me to catch the last baseball game of the regular season between Benjamin Russell and Dadeville. I only witnessed a handful of regular-season softball games before enjoying the playoff runs of Reeltown and Horseshoe Bend. In short, I just didn’t get to see enough of the season to make a great judgment on our all-area teams. But after reviewing nominations and statistics from coaches as well as discussing the top players with some knowledgeable folks, I came to find out about some of the best of the best in the region. For instance, Dadeville’s softball team might not have had the greatest season ever, but boy did it have some standout players. First-team selections Quanesha Presley and Madison “Pearl” Huff both had outstanding batting averages, and even Autumn Davis, an honorable mention, was tough not to put on the first team. Davis had a .451 batting average and a staggering .990 fielding percentage. On the baseball side, we had some pretty serious talent at shortstop. Every single coach in the area mentioned their shortstop when asked about nominations for the allarea squad. In Benjamin Russell’s case, there was good evidence for both Timmy Lawson and Brett Pitts. Other shortstops considered for first-team selections were Horseshoe Bend’s Lee Norrell, Reeltown’s Cal Burton, Central Coosa’s Dillon Nail and Dadeville’s Landon Wilson. Speaking of Pitts, I have to predict he’ll follow in Lawson’s footsteps as a future Outlook Player of the Year. As a freshman, his stats were unbelievable with a batting average, on-base percentage and slugging percentage all over .400, plus a fielding percentage of .954. They were also some incredibly heavy-hitting teams this season, but none more impressive than Reeltown’s softball squad with five players with more than 25 at-bats hitting over .400. Morgan McGuire (.483), Kyndel Lee (.444), Carlee Meadows (.441), Katlyn Jaye (.433) and Kayli Hornsby (.409) all accomplishing the feat. For BRHS, Austin Elliott (.444), Lawson (.418), Pitts (.412) and Wilson Hays (.405) all accomplished the feat. With a season like that behind us and knowing there is that much talent in the area, it makes me even more excited for the upcoming fall season. There should be a lot to look forward to with that much athleticism surrounding us. And luckily for me, I won’t be caught only witnessing the tail end – I’ll get to see it and live it from Day 1. Lizi Arbogast is the sports editor of The Outlook.

BRHS annual tournament coming soon By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

For the ninth year in a row, Benjamin Russell’s boys and girls golf teams will sponsor their annual fundraising tournament at LakeWinds Golf Course. “This is our only fundraiser of the year, and it raises money for everything we need for our season,” BRHS boys coach Wes Tate said. “It buys us bags and cloths and even covers our travel and meals.” This year’s tournament will take place Friday, July 28 from 1 to 5 p.m. The cost is $400 for a team of four, which also includes three mulligans, a throw and a power drive per player. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. with a lunch following before the shotgun start of the scramble tournament starts at 1:15 p.m. Tate said there are a variety of teams from businesses to churches to individuals. Russell Medical Center typically enters a team every year, and Tate said sometimes people will pay the entry fee and simply allow the Wildcats to enter teams just to support the local athletics. The tournament also raises money through hole sponsorships. “The community is so good to us,” Tate said. “They are saturated this time of year, but they’re still coming in force. A couple other schools, Coosa and Horseshoe Bend, are fundraising just like we are, so the same businesses get hit up, but they never say no. We are blessed with such a good community.” Awards are given to first, second and

File / The Outlook

LakeWinds Golf Course will play host to Benjamin Russell’s ninth annual fundraising golf tournament on July 28.

third place for the low gross team – the overall score without handicaps factored in – and the low net team – the score with the handicap. The tournament also has closest-

to-the-pin contests on Par 3s and longest drives on Par 5s. For more information or to register, contact Tate at 256-750-0953.

Games to Watch series begins next week By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

Over the next several weeks, the Alexander City Outlook will be previewing some of the best games of the season for each area team in a Games to Watch series. Get an early glimpse at all five of the teams’ Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook schedules as well as which games you should be at. Above, Hezekiah Hunter makes a catch, and left, Landon Cotney drops back for a pass First, we’ll look at Benjamin Russell’s top three games during a recent Benjamin Russell football practice. to watch, which include Central Clay County in Week 3, Pelham in Week 2 and Chilton County in Week 6. Benjamin Russell Wildcats Find out the importance of each of these games in Date Opponent Place Last Year next week’s first of five Games to Watch. Aug. 25 Bye N/A N/A Sept. 1

Central Clay County

Home

L 19-16

Sept. 8

Pelham

Home

W 42-21

Sept. 15

Chelsea

Away

W 40-29

Sept. 22

Opelika

Home

L 34-0

Sept. 29

Oxford

Home

L 29-21

Oct. 6

Chilton County

Away

W 37-34

Oct. 12

Minor

Away

L 56-22

Oct. 20

Helena

Away

L 35-24

Oct. 27

Wetumpka

Home

L 41-14

Nov. 3

Beauregard

Home

L 63-35

Summer celebrates reinvigorated Alabama Gulf seafood By DAVID RANIER Dept. of Natural Resources

It seems like eons ago when Alabama and the rest of the states on the Gulf of Mexico were collectively staring at a potential apocalypse that might eternally alter the way of life along the Gulf Coast. The wellhead at the Macondo Prospect was uncontrollably spewing barrel after barrel of crude oil into the Gulf after the Deepwater Horizon offshore drilling rig was destroyed, and our economy and culture were hanging by the thinnest of threads in the summer of 2010. Residents along the coast didn’t know if they would enjoy Gulf shrimp or sautéed red snapper filets ever again. Fast forward to the summer of 2017: Wild Gulf shrimp are plentiful, and the waters off the Alabama coast are teeming with red snapper. As Jim Smith, the executive chef of the State of Alabama who makes sure Governor Kay Ivey gets plenty of Alabama seafood, put it: “The BP oil spill is so far behind us in the rearview mirror that it doesn’t even come up anymore.” After the oil spill, the Alabama Seafood Marketing Commission (ASMC) was formed in March 2011 to help guide consumers and the

seafood industry through the uncertain recovery process. “A big portion of what we did after the oil spill was to ensure our seafood was safe,” said Chris Blankenship, the Alabama Marine Resources Division (MRD) director during most of the recovery period and now serves as acting commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR). “I will say that during the spill and after the spill we never had a seafood sample that was unsafe.” Several departments combined forces to the test the seafood, which included finfish, oysters, shrimp and blue crabs. Now that the BP oil spill is behind us, the effects of Alabama’s weather on seafood production can control the availability of seafood, especially oysters. Byron Webb, of the Alabama Department of Public Health’s shellfish office said recent rains from Tropical Storm Cindy have caused the harvestable oyster reefs to be shut down as a precaution. Several benchmarks are used to determine if an area will be closed. “Right now, we’re under several closures,” Webb said. “If we get five inches of local

rain, that closes an area until we get to test the water again. We got five inches of rain one night and another five inches the next day. We’re also closed because of river levels. When the Mobile River at Barry Steam Plant gets above eight feet, we close it. “When anything like that happens, it’s a 21-day closure. That gives it enough time for the components that would cause health issues to be flushed out. After that, we test again until we get a clean sample and can reopen the reefs.” Blankenship said the demand for oysters produced through aquaculture operations on the Alabama coast is through the roof. “We are able to sell a lot more oysters than we can produce,” he said. “One thing we’re trying to do is create an opportunity for people who want to get into the oyster aquaculture business. We’re putting together a one-stopshop website so that investors big and small can use the tools. If a husband-wife want to start an oyster farm, they can go to the website to see what permitting is required and what capital is required to grow a million oysters. A company that might want to grow 10 million

oysters can use the site, too. “This year, we are on schedule to produce about five million oysters, but I think we have a demand for about 25 million oysters.” On an oyster-related note, the Oyster Shell Recycling Program, which cranked up last year, has been an overwhelming success. The program collects oyster shells from Alabama Gulf Coast restaurants and takes the shells to the Alabama Marine Resources Division property in Gulf Shores. After six months of seasoning, the shells are used for oyster gardening programs and to refurbish public oyster reefs. The program set a goal of two million shells collected in its first year but has already reached that goal in just six months. Blankenship said the blue crab industry is on the rebound but not where it should be. Proposed regulations on trap components allow small crabs to escape, and there is a ninemonth closure on the harvest of egg-bearing female crabs. David Rainer is employed by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. He writes a weekly column titled Outdoor Alabama Weekly.