OPINION, PAGE 4: HATS OFF TO JAZZ FEST ORGANIZERS
TUESDAY
THE PAGE 3
See more photos from Jazz Fest weekend
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892
SPORTS, PAGE 10 Shooting club hosts fun event
June 13, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 46 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢
Commissioners move ahead on DHR building By MITCH SNEED Editor
The Tallapoosa County Commissioners have been working diligently for almost two years with the Dadeville City Council as well as state officials to build a new building to house the Tallapoosa County Department Human Resources. Monday morning, the
commissioners took another step forward towards that becoming reality. By a 5-0 vote, the commissioners agreed to sign the deed to the property that they purchased late last year over to the Public Building Authority that was formed to handle the constriction. By doing so, the state can now
secure the bonds to build the building. “The Building Authority meets tomorrow and already they have been shopping for bonds,” said Tallapoosa County Administrator Blake Beck. “Once the authority has the deed, that is the last hurdle. I think the bonds are pretty much automatic and we could
see dirt moving very soon now.” The need for a new building was first raised in July 2015 and the commissioners began the search for a piece of property. After one site was turned down, the focus moved to the Highway 49 parcel. See DHR • Page 9
4-H PROGRAM HONORED The Tallapoosa County Commissioners also hosted a presentation where the Tallapoosa County 4-H Program received Alabama 4-H Centennial Youth Initiative designation. Pick up a Wednesday Outlook for more on that big honor.
JAZZ FEST A SUCCESS
First ever Art Walk to follow Downtown After Dark event By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
As downtown Alexander City prepares for Thursday night’s monthly installment of Downtown After Dark, the participating merchants will also be taking part in a special event new to MainStreet Alexander City’s calendar. Working in conjunction with the Merchant’s Association, MainStreet has also scheduled the first ever Art Walk to begin Thursday afternoon, and would continue into the evening when Downtown After Dark officially starts. “We’ve had other art functions before, but not like this,” MainStreet Promotions Committee Chairwoman Jamie Dark said. Art will be spread throughout the downtown area, with some pieces displayed on the sidewalk and others inside the participating stores and restaurants. Works will include paintings, photography, pottery and other similar items. Not only does having this Art Walk allow for local artists to have their work featured and be potentially purchased by the public, but also gives locals yet another reason to take part in Downtown After Dark. “We want people to come and shop downtown, see what all it has,” Dark said. “We want to create a festive atmosphere with this event.” Dark added that she hoped this would become an annual or even semi-annual event that would draw in people not only from Alexander City, but also from the rest of Tallapoosa County and visitors camping out at Lake Martin. As of Monday morning, 15 artists had officially registered to be featured during Thursday’s event, though anyone interested could still sign up to take part, according to MainStreet Director Bre Smith. “The easiest way for them to sign up is to call our office and say they want to participate,” she said. “We’d be happy to add them.” See ART • Page 9
Delta Rae performed at Friday night’s Jazz Fest at Strand Park. For more photos from Jazz Fest weekend, see page 3 inside.
Kenneth Boone / The Outlook
Festival still going strong after 27 years By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
Many music festivals have gone by the wayside but to look out over the estimated 5,000 in Strand Park Friday night and it’s obvious that Alexander City’s Jazz Fest is still going strong after 27 years. “It was the largest crowd I have ever seen in Strand Park,” Alex City Jazz Fest’s Robert Gunn said. “I think it went great.” Jazz Fest’s founder Ralph Froshin was pleased. “It was as large as I have ever seen it,” Froshin said. “It was terrific. It had great variety.” Gunn stated that Saturday at The Amp was good as well.
“We had a pretty good crowd Saturday as well,” Gunn said. Gunn attributes the success to everyone working together. “Top to bottom, it was some of the easiest groups to work with,” Gunn said. “Superb people to work with.” Gunn and Froshin also think weather played a hand also. “Overall it was great weather,” Gunn said. “It seems a lot of times a that cloud is always hanging out at Jazz Fest,” Froshin said. “We don’t have the best of luck with weather.” Froshin thinks Jazz Fest is great See JAZZ FEST • Page 3
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Paul Thorn closed the festival Saturday night at the Lake Martin Amphitheater.
Local students get hands-on experience at CACC STEM camp By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Fifteen students in grades six through 12 are gaining valuable experience in scientific, technological, and engineering fields during this week’s STEM Camp being held on the campus of Central Alabama Community College. “We’re doing things they can learn from, but can have fun while doing so,” said Michael White, an automotive manufacturing and industrial electronics instructor at CACC. Monday was spent working with
motors and electronics components, and the rest of the week promises to be just as fascinating and exciting for the participants. “Tomorrow (Tuesday), they’ll be working on welding and machine cutting. They’ll take a tour of the Hyundai plant on Wednesday, as well as examining nursing. They’ll study industrial robotics, program logic controllers, lasers, hydraulics, pneumatics and chemistry on Thursday. Friday, they’ll work on computer science, and they’ll also put
Lake Martin
Today’s
Lake Levels
85 70
490.59
Weather High
Low
See CAMP • Page 3
Donald Campbell / The Outlook
A STEM Camp attendee practices soldering electrical components to a circuit board, while another camper and their group captain look on.
# ! & " # !
FIRMLY ROOTED IN LAKE MARTIN AND HERE TO STAY.
Reported on 06/12/17 @ 10 a.m.
#% & $ "%
LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443 6
54708 90050 USPS Permit # 013-080
8
laceyshowell@gmail.com 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL
FREE CONSULTATIONS
Evening & Weekend Appointments Available Upon Request
256-329-1313 • 217 Madison Street, Alexander City, AL “We are a Debt Relief Agency. We help people file Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 under the Bankruptcy Code. Alabama State Bar requires the following in every attorney advertisement, “ No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”
Page 2
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Early playtime leaves retired neighbor tossing and turning
Wednesday
86 71 Low
High Slight chance t-storms
Thursday
88 70 Low
High T-storms likely
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.
© 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
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
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
The Outlook
a caregiver support group. Call 256-786-1685 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 weight-loss 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) 496-4210 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.
DEAR ABBY: We have owned our house for 31 years and raised our kids here. They are grown now and have moved out. Several families across the street have come and gone. The most recent owners have two kids, one in kindergarten and another in first grade. Every morning before school, the mom lets her kids run wild, screaming, yelling, riding their bikes and scooters unsupervised in the street from 7:45 to 8:30 a.m. My husband is retired and hears this every morning. He has a back injury and two hip replacements, so he doesn’t sleep well and isn’t an early riser. Today he finally went over and asked her not to let them do this every morning. She, of course, became defensive and said she likes to let them play before school and thought 8 a.m. wasn’t unreasonable. Not only are the kids loud, but cars often race up the road and it’s
consider moving to a community for people over 55.
DEAR ABBY Advice
dangerous. We were always out there watching our kids on this road, especially when they were that age. Are we a couple of old fogies, or do you agree she is an irresponsible parent? -UPSET IN WASHINGTON DEAR UPSET: Playtime at 8 a.m. may not seem unreasonable, but it is to someone who has health and sleep problems. However, your neighbor has a right to let her children out to play before school. I wouldn’t call you a couple of old fogies, but I would point out that after people reach a certain age, their needs can change. Try earplugs or double-paned bedroom windows. But if that doesn’t help, it may be time to
DEAR ABBY: My husband and I have been married for five years. He’s always been a jokester, which is OK, except for the way he does it. He knows what pushes my buttons, so his jokes are geared toward that. At first, I ignore it, but when he persists, I get mad. Then he accuses me of overreacting and calls me unreasonable for getting mad because he’s “only joking.” If a husband knows what pushes your buttons and makes you yell at him (which I never did before I met him), isn’t that playing with your emotions for his own entertainment? I’m not the only one he does this to. His daughter has been on the receiving end many times. He claims she’s being unreasonable, too. I have asked him to stop, but he doesn’t. It’s affecting our relationship. I almost feel like he’s gaslighting me. What
say you, Abby? -- PUSHING MY BUTTONS DEAR PUSHING: I say you are absolutely right. Your husband’s behavior is emotionally abusive, not funny. It would be interesting to know how years of that kind of treatment have affected his daughter. The effects of a parent’s ridicule can remain with a child into adulthood. Because you haven’t been able to get through to him, perhaps you should enlist the assistance of a licensed marriage counselor. If he refuses to go with you, you should go by yourself. And if nothing changes, ask yourself if this is how you are prepared to spend the rest of your life. 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 Tom Edward Corley Graveside services for Tom Edward Corley, 96, of Auburn, AL will be on June 14 at 11:00 a.m. in Auburn Memorial Park. A memorial service will be held afterwards at 12:00 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church of Auburn. Visitation will be at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, from 5 to 7 p.m. Mr. Corley, who died June 9, 2017 in Auburn at Bethany House, was born April 25, 1921 in Coosa County to Scott Maxwell and Florence McElrath Corley. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church where he served as Deacon, Elder, and Trustee. He graduated in Agricultural Engineering from Auburn University (API) in 1943 and served 3 1/2 years in the Army, seeing action in France and Germany. He returned to Auburn University for a MS degree. He then served 36 years on the staff, 18 years in Agricultural Engineering and 18 years in administration, retiring in 1984 as Associate Dean of the School of Agriculture and Associate Director of the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station. He was widely recognized as a pioneer in the mechanization of cotton
SSG James Anon Nolen 1940 - 2017 SSG James Anon Nolen Born 27Sep1940 in Daviston, Tallapoosa County, AL and died 03Jun2017 in Shelton, WA. He grew up in Alexander City, Alabama and was preceded in death by his parents Jesse Mac Nolen and Lurie Nolen, and his brother MacWayne Nolen. James entered active duty service with the Army in May of 1964 and served honorably through the Korea Conflict and the Vietnam War until January of 1975.
Mrs. Sarah “Mom” McDaniel Thomas 1925 - 2017 Graveside Service for Mrs. Sarah McDaniel Thomas, 91, of Alexander City, will be Tuesday, June 13, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. at the Hillview Memorial Park. Randy Anderson will officiate. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, June 13, 2017 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. Mrs. Thomas passed away on Sunday, June 11, 2017 at Russell Medical. She was born on
Plumbing Problem? No Problem!
production. Auburn University honored him by naming the Agricultural Engineering (now Biosystems) building the Tom E. Corley Building in 1998. He received the Outstanding Alumnus Award in Agricultural Engineering in 1995 and was elected to the Alabama Agricultural Hall of Honor in 1990. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Auburn for over 60 years, and the club named him a George F. Hixon Fellow. He was a charter member of the Auburn-Opelika Men’s Camellia Club and The Chattahoochee Rhododendron Society. He was active in the Auburn Beautification Council, serving as Treasurer for 10 years. He was Civitan’s 2010 Citizen of the Year. He served on the Auburn Cemetery Board and the Water Board. He and his wife had a 150-year old log house near his birthplace (Socopatoy, AL) dismantled and re-erected on their land in Loachapoka, AL. He propagated and planted over 3,000 camellias, rhododendrons, and native azaleas on the land surrounding the log house. He and Mary were always gracious hosts and scheduled meetings by request from all kinds of groups throughout the year. The garden has been featured
in eight magazines and one book. Tom received the W. Kelly Mosely Environmental Award for preserving a bit of the past and improving the environment. Tom was very generous in sharing his plants with other gardeners and visitors, and contributed hundreds of plants to Auburn and the surrounding area. He had a passion for “making new plants” and along with fellow gardeners, Dr. Dennis Rouse and O’Neil Smitherman, several new hybrid native azaleas were cultivated, one named “Corley’s Cardinal.” He was especially proud of naming and registering the “Mary Corley” camellia. He is survived by his wife, Mary Will Simpson Corley, one son Tom E. Corley, Jr. (Sue) of Lakeland, FL; one daughter, Mary June Corley of Loachapoka, AL; two grandchildren, Stacey Corley Jenkins (Larry) and Pamela Corley Todd (Jason), both of Lakeland, Florida; four greatgrandchildren, and several nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and three sisters. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the First Presbyterian Church at 143 E. Thach Ave., Auburn, Alabama 36830.
James left behind his wife, Francesca Conner-Nolen of 33 years, his sister, Patricia Nolen Neal, his son and daughters and their spouses, Christopher Nolen White, Lorraine Nolen, Sherrill and Timothy Stead, Theresa and Eric Everest, Patricia and Daniel Emmett, Rosa and Douglas Sample, 15 Grandchildren and 18 Great
Grandchildren and his faithful companion, his dog, Fritzi. He was greatly loved by his wife, his sister, his children and all of his family. He touched many lives and will never be forgotten. A graveside service will be held Wednesday, June 14, 2017 at 10:00 am at the Hillview Memorial Park. Father Peter Reddy will officiate. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome. com.
September 10, 1925 in New Site, Alabama to Jesse Jack McDaniel and Tinsey McDaniel. She was an active member of Hillabee Baptist Church for over 60 years. Mrs. Thomas was never called by her given name by anyone she met, she was always known by “Mom.” Mom was a very strong, caring loving woman. She spent countless hours outdoors working in her yard, watching her son’s play golf or any activity her children were involved in. Later in life she would continuously watch golf on television. She is survived by
Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
her sons, Lewis “Max” M. Thomas Jr. (Marcia) and Randy M. Thomas (Linda), grandchildren, Keeley Johnson (Jay) and Kimberley McAlister (Reese); greatgrandchildren, Payten Johnson, Marley McAlister, and Chloe Johnson; brother, Dowayne McDaniel (Mae) and host of cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis “Sebe” M. Thomas Sir; infant son, Bill Thomas; parents; sisters, Lillian Cleveland and Mary Morgan; and brothers, Bill and Edsel McDaniel.
“PROVIDING QUALITY ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION SINCE 1961”
In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Children’s Harbor online at www. childrensharbor.com or 1 Our Children’s Highway, Alexander City, Al, 35010 or to the Lake Martin Humane Society, 2502 Sugar Creek Road, Alexander City, Al, 35010. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome. com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law 135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL
• On Time Convenience - When you have a busy schedule, you need a plumber that shows up at the agreed time. • True Choice in Your Hands - The work we do has to be absolutely right for you, your home and your budget.
825-9559
Bill’s Electric ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
(256) 234-4555
• Care For Your Home - With background checks and drug testing, you can rest assured you and your home are safe.
1814 Airport Blvd • Alexander City, AL
• Upfront Pricing - Have peace of mind knowing the price before any work is started.
We Care About You
• Your Home or Business - You get a professional plumber that has been specially trained to serve your every plumbing need from A to Z. Call A&M Plumbing today.
Go to www.amplumbing.net for more, plus get your copy of Interviewing Your Contractor.
(256) 414-4322 Financing Available
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.
and Your Loved Ones!
•Home-like Environment • Specialized Dementia Care Unit •Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Services
A DAMS HEALTH & REHAB 1555 HILLABEE STREET • (256) 329-0847
How to Submit Obituaries
Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by e-mail at obits@ alexcityoutlook.com For more information, call (256) 234-4281.
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
The Outlook
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Jazz Fest
Page 3
continued from page 1
for the community despite thinking it was a one-time thing when he did it 1991. “I thought it was going to be one and done,” Froshin said. “We did it in 1991 to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of our family business.” That is when others saw the potential in it and ought to be applauded according to Froshin. “Other businesses and the city said let’s do this,” Froshin said. “Alexander City deserves a pat on the back. It is great that the community and businesses step up to sponsor it. “It is one of the most positive things we have in our community. It brings together people from all walks of life to enjoy music free of charge.”
Kenneth Boone / The Outlook
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
The Sofia Goodman Group performed as the opening act of Friday night’s Jazz Fest.
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Delta Rae closed out the night at Friday’s Jazz Fest.
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Strand Park was full for Friday night’s Jazz Fest.
Kenneth Boone / The Outlook
Camp together PowerPoint presentations about what they learned this week,” CACC welding instructor D.J. James said. “It’s exciting, getting so many different departments involved.” As the session on electronics began, White split the students into small groups, with CACC students serving as group captains to guide the campers. Once they were divided, each group received several electronic components such as a transistor, a diode and a capacitor. White demonstrated how to read the color-coding on some of the components, which explains how many ohms (a unit of electrical resistance)
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
continued from page 1
they are rated for. He walked them through several simple mathematical equations using the numbers each color stood for. For example, a piece with one series of colors might mean it is rated for 250 ohms with a five percent deviation, while a different color code could represent a 10,000 ohm rating with twenty percent deviation. Following this, the campers tried their hand at soldering some of these components into place on a circuit board, which seemed to excite them just as much as White said working with the motor had during the morning session.
When the camp is over Friday afternoon, “They’re going to leave here knowing more than they did,” White said. “I love to see them engaged and smiling,” James added. In addition, both White and James said they hoped participating in this camp might get these students interested in taking dual enrollment courses in these fields, and perhaps even lead them to pursue a career path in such a direction as well. Despite all of these positive aspects to the STEM camp, there is one big issue it faces: funding. Since grant and other similar fund sources have all but
dried up, they have turned to other methods to keep the sessions going. “We’ve been running on donations from companies and individuals,” James said. Hopefully, additional sources of money can be found so the program can continue. With the overall outcome being students becoming welders or technicians or product manufacturers, or at least having been more exposed to such fields, any investment into the STEM camp at CACC seems a small price to pay to help create a more educated workforce in Tallapoosa County.
MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213
editor@alexcityoutlook.com
EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 4
Our
Opinion
M
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 334242-7100. Her office is located at the State Capitol at 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama.
Steve Marshall was appointed Alabama’s 50th Attorney General. He was appointed in 2017 and serves as the State’s chief law enforcement officer. He can be reached at 334-242-7300, and 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 256-392-2006 or by email at tughd81@gmail. com. 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 334242-t7865. His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn.
Kay Ivey
Steve Marshall
Mark Tuggle
Tom Whatley
The
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
The truth about the Alabama Accountability Act
Hats off to Jazz A Fest organizers aybe Alexander City should consider adopting the motto “Alex City: Home of Summer Fun!” The 27th edition of Jazz Fest was a big hit and everyone associated with the event deserves a big pat of the back. From Robert Gunn and the entire Jazz Fest Committee, to the generous sponsors, the volunteers, the bands and musicians, the city workers who helped prepare the Strand Park and the utilities, The Alexander City Police Department who worked security downtown Russell Lands who had the Lake Martin Amphitheater looking great and even the fans – it would be hard to imagine a better two-night festival. Indeed, it was a festive weekend in Alexander City on Friday and Saturday nights. The annual Jazz Fest brought some great acts to town, including Delta Rae on Friday night in Strand Park and Paul Thorn on Saturday night at The Amp on Lake Martin. More than festive was the response. No one has an official attendance, but people who have been associated with the festival from its inception say that there were more people in Strand Park Friday night than they had ever seen. Some put the number at 5,000. The weather was perfect. For June, the nighttime temperatures were comfortable and the showers stayed away. That alone should set this Jazz Fest apart. Both nights, the music featured a great blend of sounds, but the community atmosphere was something to behold. The sponsor tables were imaginative and creative, the smell of food was in the air and there was just a special feel. People milled about and talked with friends they hadn’t seen in a while, while children ran and played in grassy areas. It was exactly what makes a small town special. We applaud the Jazz Fest committee and the sponsors of the event for another job well done! The committee put together an impressive lineup of entertainment and the event wouldn’t be possible without the gracious assistance of the sponsors. There aren’t too many places in the state that can say they have a music festival of this caliber that is offered to its residents free of charge. We say thank you and we can’t wait until next year.
Outlook
ccording to its website, The Alabama Policy Institute “is a non-profit, non-partisan research and education organization dedicated to influencing public policy... We do this by providing factbased, objective analysis of key issues.” However, when you dissect the following op-ed written by Taylor Dawson about the recent defeat of an amendment to the Alabama Accountability Act, it is hard to figure out where the facts are: “Parents with children trapped in failing schools did not have a real school-choice option in Alabama prior to 2013. With the passage of the Alabama Accountability Act (AAA), families zoned for Alabama’s worst-performing schools finally had better opportunities through scholarships and tax credits.” Really? The writer should look at the Alabama Department of Revenue website that shows in the first quarter of 2017 only three scholarship granting organizations were active. There are 3,897 students on AAA vouchers. But only 1,302 (33.4 percent) “zoned” to attend a “failing” school. And this is misleading since it does not show how many students were ACTUALLY attending a “failing school.” As to “better opportunities,” API should point out that of the 201 private schools now participating in the AAA, 80 of them (39.8 percent) are not accredited. “After a drop of $5.9 million in scholarship donations through the AAA last year, some lawmakers came to this year’s session prepared
LARRY LEE Columnist
to remedy the funding problem. Amendments would have improved the law by raising the limit on tax credits that could be claimed for donating to student scholarships, adding a tax credit for utility tax, allowing estates and trusts to donate, and reserving half of the cumulative cap--which would remain unchanged-on donations for individual donors.” AAA has never reached its cap in any year. Could it be the general public realizes this is not the panacea some politicians claimed it was and have grown reluctant to contribute? Since 90 percent of all students in Alabama attend public schools, maybe some folks have decided we should put our money where it can help the most students. There are 730,000 in public schools and only 3,897 on vouchers. And nowhere does API mention that we have now diverted $86 million from the education trust fund to provide vouchers. Nor do they mention that the scholarship granting organizations can keep five percent of all donations. That’s $4.3 million through the end of 2016. “In February, these amendments passed by a close margin in the Senate. It wasn’t until the last 48 hours of the legislative session that SB 123 hit the floor of the House.” Senator Marsh’s
amendment only passed the Senate by a 17-15 margin as seven Republicans voted against it. Many of these “no” vote Republicans are senators who have grown weary of asking questions about the effectiveness of AAA and not getting answers. “Getting the bill to the House floor wasn’t an easy task, but education reforms rarely are. Enough legislators were swayed by the voices of publiceducation superintendents and the Alabama Education Association (AEA) to kill the bill. This bill was not just killed--it was stomped flat and left to die. While only 28 Republicans voted for it, 29 Republicans voted against it. The final tally was 59-28. And why would a legislator not be swayed by their local school superintendents? After all, who knows better, the Alabama Policy Institute or a local educator, where money should be spent? This op-ed does not mention what happened after Senator Marsh bills died on the last day. At that point there was a $41 million supplemental appropriation for education waiting for Senate action. But Senator Marsh killed it. Apparently he decided that if the legislature was not going to provide additional tax breaks for big business, then he wasn’t going to provide additional monies for school kids. Larry Lee is a public school advocate and co-author of the study, Lessons Learned From Rural Schools. Larrylee133@ gmail.com
Millennials’ lack of preparedness hurts economy
A
Pew Research Center study confirmed what most of us already knew. More Millennials (those born after 1982), around 35 percent, are living with their parents rather than alone or with a partner. You’ve heard of “empty nest syndrome.” We now suffer from full basement syndrome. The poll, showing that 26 percent of college grads move back home, was confirmed recently by USA Today. Upon hearing the news, parents of Millennials said they were so proud of their kids for just completing the poll and planned to do something special to celebrate their achievement. There are only two ways you can look at this: We have raised, (1. a bunch of dependent wussies, incapable of self-reliance, or (2. a generation of kids too afraid to ask their parents for rent money. Neither one is good. The Pew study went on to conclude that fewer young people are married than in the past. Even accounting for the increased popularity of cohabitation, there are just fewer 20-somethings and 30-somethings shacking up than there used to be. Millennials cannot decide who they want to stare at their iPhones with for the rest of their lives. Delayed marriage may also be driven by the decline of religion among Facebook/ Twitter-obsessed Millennials. Kids may not think as much of Christ because he had only 12 followers. Of course, there are exceptions, but essentially we have raised a group of selfimportant pansies who need “safe places” if they hear any comments they don’t like and “trigger warnings” to help them brace for anything that does not fit their narrative. They are taught to feel, not
RON HART Columnist
think. Their trajectory is not good for the country. How and when did this happen? It might have started about the time we started printing those “My Child is an Honors Student at Teach to the Mean Elementary” bumper stickers. Sadly, our leftist education system has left our kids not only unappreciative of American exceptionalism, but unprepared for life. Capitalism, which they disdain, has created incredible technologies that make life easy and 200 cable TV stations at the ready for them. We did not have it so good when I was young. I had to get up off the couch and fight my way through 10 yards of shag carpet to change the channel on our TV to one of the two other channels. Then I had to rake the shag carpet on the way back because my mother told me to. Having been told their whole lives about all the things they “deserve,” Millennials’ expectations are out of line. There is an unmet sense of entitlement in this generation which disappoints and angers them. Health care became a right, while free speech is something that they can decide to allow — or not. Most are still on their parents’ Netflix account, which a judge recently ruled cannot legally be shared by its owner. So heads up, Millennials: If you don’t get your way, there has never been a better time than now to send your parents to prison. These kids could make
more money if they could find a way to turn always being offended into a moneymaking proposition. Once college professors put a chip on your shoulder, the anger against any slight — real or imagined — colors your life and outlook. So our snowflake kids come out of college with some silly liberal arts degree and $50k in student loan debt that their loan shark government put on them. They have few skills employers are looking for and a hard-to-please attitude. Obamacare lets them stay on their parents’ insurance plans until age 26. Another poll that might astound you: 18-year-old members of the Greatest Generation died on the beaches of Normandy, but this group, when asked, said they thought the average age of reaching adulthood is 26. With all this student loan debt and being often unemployable, Millennials are not contributing as much to the economy in the form of spending, resulting in our sluggish economy. Most of their net worth is tied up in their tattoos. Economists predict that Millennials will eventually surpass the spending power of both Elton John and Michael Jackson by 2023. They say they don’t spend on things for themselves, but rather on experiences like concerts, where they post selfies constantly. On the bright side, many of these concerts are outdoors. Their selfie-sticks serve nicely as lightning rods, which could thin their ranks over time. Ron Hart is a syndicated op-ed humorist, awardwinning author and TV/ radio commentator. You can reach him at Ron@ RonaldHart.com or Twitter @RonaldHart.
Today’s
Quote
“Hanging onto resentment is letting someone you despise live rent-free in your head.” – Ann Landers
Today’s
Scripture
“As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” —Psalm 103:12
alexcityoutlook.com
Daily Poll Weekend Question: Do you think Donald Trump is an effective president?
Yes: 57% No: 43%
Tuesday Question: Do you think enough is done to enforce speed limits? To participate in this daily poll, log on each day to www. alexcityoutlook.com and vote. Find out the vote totals in the next edition of The Outlook and see if your vote swayed the results.
Our
Mission
The Outlook strives to report the news honestly, fairly and with integrity, to take a leadership role and act as a positive influence in our community, to promote business, to provide for the welfare of our employees, to strive for excellence in everything we do and above all, to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves.
How to
Subscribe
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.
What’s your
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!
Follow us
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.
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
Page 5
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
Father’s Day, which occurs every year on the third Sunday in June, is a holiday that has been set aside to show the Fathers, Grandfathers, and the other special gentlemen in our lives how much we appreciate all that they have done for us. This year we celebrate Father’s Day on Sunday, June 18. Children make cards and presents for their Dads and treat them extra special that day. The origins of Father’s Day go back to June 19, 1910, in Spokane, Washington. Sonora Dodd was the daughter of Mr. William Smart. Sonora’s Mother died during childbirth, so Mr. Smart was a single Father to six children, as well as a Civil War veteran. Dodd was honored by her Father’s love, hard work, and dedication to raising his family alone, so she campaigned to create Each player takes a turn to draw a line WKH ¿UVW )DWKHU¶V 'D\ 7KH KROLGD\¶V SRSXODUfrom one dot to another. When a player ity caught on, and in 1966 President Lyndon completes a box, such as the one below, B. Johnson made the third Sunday in June he is allowed another turn. If a player’s turn DQ RႈFLDO KROLGD\ 3UHVLGHQW 1L[RQ PDGH LW allows him to make several boxes in a row, a permanent part of our Country’s annual he can keep playing until he cannot comfestivities in 1977, and it has been observed plete another box. Initial each box you creand celebrated ever since. ate. The person with the most boxes wins.
FATHER’S DAY WORD FIND
DOTS & BOXES
Card, Coach, Counselor, Dad, Daughter, Family, Father, Friend, Gift, Helper, Leader, Mentor, Role Model, Son, Teacher
Dad
DAD’S DAY SUDOKU
Using the numbers 1-6, complete the puzzle below. You are to have one of each number (1-6) in each vertical and horizontal row, as well as only one of each of the numbers 1-6 in each of the six bold box areas.
1
3
4
6
4 3
2
6 2
FATHER’S DAY CROSSWORD
2
4
6
2
Across Clues: 3. Many kids make these for Father’s Day. 5. Most popular gift purchased for Dads. &LW\ WKDW REVHUYHG WKH ¿UVW )DWKHU¶V 'D\ $ PDOH SDUHQWDO ¿JXUH 9. Another person to celebrate. Down Clues: 1. Who created the idea for Father’s Day? 2. President who made holiday permanent. 3. Mr. Smart was a veteran of which war? 4. How many kids did Mr. Smart have? 6. Who was Senora Dodd’s Father?
Crossword Ans: Across-3)cards 5)ties 7)Spokane 8)father 9) grandfather Down-1) 'RGG 1L[RQ &LYLO :DU 4)six 6)Mr. Smart
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS!
SECURITY
Town & Country Cleaners
And Shoe Repair
PEST CONTROL
1222 Cherokee Road 212-9600
WE REFLOAT SUNKEN BOATS.
HOURS: Monday-Friday 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - Noon
256-307-1313
652 Cherokee Road Alexander City
www.towboatuslakemartin.com Nicki@towboatuslm.com
(256) 329-1018
Since 1978
RED FLAG PEST Serving Central Alabama CONTROL
Call today for a free quote!
BIG “B” BAR-B-QUE “We Cook The Best BETTER!”
BBQ• STEAK •CHICKEN •CATFISH Hwy. 22 West, Alexander City, AL (Off Hwy. 280)
256.329.9996
IVER U N S
D E E P
256.825.0430
Hwy. 280 • Jackson’s Gap www.redflagpestcontrol.com
256-329-0500 www.riverbankandtrust.com S U P E R
Brown Nursing Home
T I R E
2334 Washington St. Alexander City, AL 35010 Phone: (256) 329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
STEFUL GIFT IDEA
S A L E
Lake Martin Garage Towing, Tires & fler Fr eeT & Muffler MOUN BALANCE
WITH PURCHASE OF 4 OR MORE TIRES
Major and Minor Auto Repair
DISCOUNTS
11133 Hwy. 280 • Jackson’s Gap, AL
ZAXBY’S 4497 Hwy. 280 •Alexander City, AL (256) 234-2181 Hours: Fri. & Sat. 10:30-11:00
Sun. - Thurs. 10:30-9:00
Currently available only at Zaxby’s store locations. Zaxby’s gift cards can be used at all Zaxby’s store locations.
DOWEE WEDOWEE MARINE WE 21130 Hwy. 431 MARINE Wedowee, AL
LAKE MARTIN GARAGE TOWING, TIRES & MUFFLER
256.825.6139
.
Zaxby’s® gift cards are perfect for the chicken lovers in your life. Available in any amount from $5 to $100, So next time you are at Zaxby’s, ask about our gift cards.
Has your home been inspected lately?
BANK & TRUST S E RV I C E
A TA
3701 Dadeville Road, Alexander City ( 256 ) 234-6366 Rehab• Long-Term Care• Assisted Living
New & Used Boats • Yamaha Waverunners Yamaha Golf Carts • Full-Service Marina & Service Center • Wet Slips & Dry Storage
256.357.2045
800.780.2045
“We Touch the Lives of the People You Love”
DADEVILLE HEALTHCARE CENTER Kim Russell, Administrator 385 E. LaFayette St., Dadeville 256.825.9244
Adam’s Health & Rehab We Care About You And Your Loved Ones!
S TEVE K ING , S R . P ASTOR Court Square, Alexander City • 256-234-6351• www.fbc-ac.org
ZAJAC’S THOMAS AUTO PARTS
AUTO COLLISION, INC.
793 Airport Road Alexander City, AL
256.329.9963
• Automotive Parts • Machine Shop Services • Paint & Body Supplies • Hydraulic Hose Assemblies
AUTO PARTS
150 Green Street • Alexander City • 256.234.5023 157 E. South Street • Dadeville • 256.825.4155
8:00-4:00 Mon.-Fri • By Appt.(Except Emergencies) 256-234-4295 • After Hours 256-329-7100
Temple Medical Clinic, P.C. YOUR FAMIY CARE CENTER Medicine, Office Surgery, Pediatric, & Industrial James P. Temple, M.D. • Timothy J. Cordin, M.D. Vincent Law, M.D.
859 Airport Drive • Alexander City, AL
Coming Soon! The Community Center “Emergency Center for Shelter, Counseling and Job Placement” 8805 Alabama Hwy. 259 | Alexander City, AL 256.794.1519
(In need of volunteers, please call Lonnie Mace for more details)
(256) 329-0847
256-825-2100
1555 Hillabee Street Alexander City
10973 County Road 34, Dadeville www.kelleyshvac.com • AL License #99129
– FINANCING AVAILABLE – Sales • Service • Installation P.O. Box 103, Alex City, AL (256) 329-8488
ELIZABETH HOMES LLC
Wright’s Funeral Home
MAGGIN EDWARDS, MANAGER 5639 Elmore Road•Elmore, AL•334-567-0446 Toll Free 1-800-246-0220
131 Mason son Street • Alexander City, AL
FAITH CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
SOCIAL SECURITY
FAYE EDMONDSON
256-234-6421
Attorney at Law
w w w. f a i t h t e m p l e . u s
135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL
ARMSTRONG-HOLLEY
• Propane • Diesel Fuel • Non-Ethanol Fuel • Breakfast - Deli at 5am • Live Bait & Tackle
WE SPECIALIZE IN COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL PLUMBING!
HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 5am - 7pm Sat. 6am - 7pm • Sun. 8am - 5pm
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.
PLUMBING
256-392-3809 OFFICE 256-794-0777 CELL TWO MEN AND A
BUCKET TRUCK Call Us For All Your Tree Service Needs Mike Ransom Steve Caldwell 256.794.3999 256.226.5074
2802 Dadeville Road Alexander City, AL
256-234-3298
LEE A N D BRA N DON FOSHEE
Alex City Internal Medicine & Nephrology Also dba...
Weight Loss Center 256-409-1500 3368 Hwy. 280 Suite 220 [ Alexander City, AL Connected to Russell Medical Center in the Professional Bldg. on the 2nd Floor in Suite 220
W
256/234-6355 Eat At . . .
6684 HWY. 49 SOUTH • DADEVILLE, AL (256) 825-4827
Page 6
www.alexcityoutlook.com
CommunityCalendar SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700
Today is June 13, 2017 Today’s Events
USHERS MEETING: The Early Rose District Usher’s meeting will be June 13 at 5 p.m. at the Early Rose District Center. SUMMER FEEDING PROGRAM: The Reeltown High School Cafeteria will be June 5-30 with breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and lunch from 11 a.m. to noon. Contact Nina Hollingsworth at 256-825-0746. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Calvary Heights Baptist Church across from the Russell Retail Store is hosting vacation Bible School June 11-14 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for
haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
The Outlook
ages kindergarten to sixth grade. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Kellyton Baptist Church is hosting vacation Bible school for children ages three through adults June 11 through June 15 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Kids and teenagers will experience Galactic Starveyors with Bible study and special activities. Adults will have the opportunity to participate in Bible Study. Call VBS Glenda ‘Tater’ Eason at 256-839-6922 with questions. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Orr Street Baptist Church is hosting their 2017 Vacation Bible School “Galactic Starveyers” June 11-15 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. with a meal nightly at 5:30 p.m. VBS registration and celebration will be Wednesday, June 7 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL:
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/. First Baptist Church of Dadeville is hosting Vacation Bible School, Galactic Starveyors, June 12-16 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Children ages four through sixth grade are invited. Registration at www.fbcdadeville.com VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: New Beginning Baptist Church on Coley Creek Road is hosting Galactic Starveyors Vacation Bible School June 12 to June 16 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. nightly. For more information or van pick up call Robin at 256-7500068.
Today’s Birthdays
John Clark, Jwann Simmons, Jacob Hil, Butch Fennell and Alvin Owens are celebrating birthdays today.
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
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
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
dB
Lawn Care Darrell Brooks, Owner Cutting •Edging Weed Eating •Mulch Weed Control
256.267.0518 Many a small thing
has been made
large...
KarenChannell.com
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Marcus Osborne helps a customer Saturday morning at the MainStreet Farmers Market. Saturday was the opening day for the market which is held each week beginning at 7 a.m.
Wednesday, June 14
FIELD AND FOREST HIKE: Wind Creek State Park is hosting a field and forest hike June 14 at 9 a.m. The walk is for all ages. Meet at the outdoor classroom across from the beach. MOVIE: There will be free viewings of an environmental and other movies for teenagers at the Cooper Recreation Center on Wednesday June 14, Tuesday, June 20, and Wednesday, June 28. Adults Please allow and advise your teenagers to come. “For ages 13 to 17 years old” Movie starts at 2 p.m., and questions and discussions afterward. Check it out! For information please call Ms. Dean @ 256-794-0172 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Thursday, June 15
STORYTELLING: Dolores Hydock will be at Red Ridge Methodist Church presenting “Close Encounters of the Storytelling Kind” June 15 at noon. ARTISTS ASSOCIATION OF CENTRAL ALABAMA: General Meeting at the Alex City Sportplex Senior Center from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Members will vote on board members for 2017-2018 and get information for the show at the Comer Museum in Sylacauga . The rest of the time will be open studio.
Friday, June 16
MOVIE NIGHT: River of Life Worship Center is hosting a movie night June 16. Miracles from Heaven will start at 7:30 p.m. Concessions will be sold.
June 16-17
...with the right kind of advertising.
•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
RODEO: The 11th Annual Lake Martin Area Rodeo benefitting the Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area will be June 16 and June 17 at the Alexander City Horse Arena. Gates will open at 5 p.m. and the Brett Woody Bar W Rodeo will begin at 7 p.m.
Saturday, June 17
COMMUNITY PRAYER: The Darian Missionary Baptist Church family and prayer team are offering prayer to the community June 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot on the corner of Laurel and E streets across from Stephens School. STARGAZING: The Auburn Astronomical Society will set up telescopes to look at the night sky June 17 at 7 p.m. on Hospice Point near the silo at Wind Creek State Park. WATER WARS: Wind Creek State Park is hosting Water Wars June 17 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. with water slides, gold fish races, duck races, Team Sponge wars, Tear Water relay and more. Bring a towel, super soaker water gun, sunscreen clothes to get wet in and lots of energy. Team games will need a team of five. Teams can register at the marina store until 10 a.m. on June 17. TRADE DAY: Bibb Graves High School Alumni Monthly Trade Day in Millerville on Highway 9 between Ashland and Goodwater will be held on June 17 from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Refreshments are also available. WOMANS DAY PROGRAM: The
Word Bible Church Ministry is hosting a woman’s day program June 17 at 3 p.m. at the Early Rose District Center. Guest speaker will be First Lady Prophetess Tonda West of Fountain of Hope, Praise, and Worship Ministry in Montgomery. SUMMER CONCERT: The First Presbyterian Church Choir will present their annual Summer Concert, “Broadway at First Pres,” Saturday, June 17 at 5 p.m. The program will feature a mixture of Broadway hits and traditional music. Guest artists will be Brink and Brinkley Norton from Charleston, South Carolina. Admission is free. MOTORCYCLE RIDE: There will be a benefit motorcycle ride for Billy Warren Saturday, June 17. Sign up at 9:30 a.m. with kickstands up at 11 a.m. in the Walmart parking lot with a short ride to Family Worship Center for lunch. The cost is $25. BENEFIT SINGING: There will be a benefit singing for Billy Warren at Family Worship Center Saturday, June 17 at 5 p.m. with Zach Channell, All for Him and the Dyes.
Sunday, June 18
FATHERS DAY BASKET GIVEAWAY: Passion Church is selling chances on a Father’s Day Basket to benefit the church’s mission ministry. Tickets are available by calling the church office at 256-409-9590, from Min. Betty Reese or by contacting Gloria Boleware via Facebook.
June 18-21
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Trinity United Methodist Church Weoka is hosting the Galactic Starveyors Vacation Bible School. Please join us as we study the stars to discover the God of the Universe! June 18 there will be a hot dog supper at 5 p.m. with VBS starting at 6 p.m. On June 19-21 refreshments will be served. June 19 – 21 we will start at 6 p.m. and end at 8 p.m. For more information call (334) 567-4264.
June 19-22
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Flint Hill United Methodist Church is hosting Surf Shack Vacation Bible School June 19-222 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Register children online through Facebook at Flint Hill UMC.
Tuesday, June 20
MOVIE: There will be free viewings of an environmental and other movies for teenagers at the Cooper Recreation Center on Tuesday, June 20 and Wednesday, June 28. Adults Please allow and advise your teenagers to come. “For ages 13 to 17 years old” Movie starts at 2 p.m., and questions and discussions afterward. Check it out! For information please call Ms. Dean @ 256-794-0172 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Friday, June 23
MOVIE NIGHT: River of Life Worship Center is hosting a movie night June 23. The Climb will start at 7:30 p.m. Concessions will be sold.
June 23-24
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Kellyton Chapel United Methodist
Church is host Vacation Bible School June 23 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and June 24 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The theme is Super God, Super Me, Super Possibilities.
Saturday, June 24
TURTLE AND TORTOISE DAY: Wind Creek State Park is hosting turtle and tortoise day June 24 at 9 a.m to take the place of turtle races of the past. It is sponsored by Wind Creek State Park, Alabama Department of Natural Resources and the Auburn Museum of Natural History. Learn about gophers and tortoise with live animals, children’s activities, turtle egg race, turtle dasy and more at the campground playground.
Hardwood Floors Ceramic Tile Carpet & Vinyl Locally Owned for Over 45 Years
256-234-6071
1945 Hwy 280 • Alexander City
H
OLMAN
F
LOOR
C
OMPANY
“WE’RE THE PROFESSIONALS”
Small Space Advertising Works.
Sunday, June 25
FAMILY REUNION: The 100th Mann Family Reunion will be June 25 at 11 a.m. at Rocky Mount Primitive Baptist Church. All descendants of John Branch Mann will gather for a covered dish lunch and fellowship. For more information call Judy Burgess at 256-216-6108. FRIENDS AND FAMILY DAY: GAP Fellowship Church will celebrate friends and family day Sunday, June 25 at 2:30 p.m. with special guest Pastor Curtis Seals of Lily Hill Missionary Baptist Church of Talladega. Lou and Marilyn Benson are the pastors of GAP Fellowship Church.
June 25-27
For Consistent Advertising
at Low Rates...
call the Advertising Department
256.234.4281 +
+
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: The Dadeville First United Methodist Church is hosting Vacation Bible School Sunday, June 25 to Tuesday, June 27 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, June 28
FIELD AND FOREST HIKE: Wind Creek State Park is hosting a field and forest hike June 28 at 9 a.m. The walk is for all ages. Meet at the outdoor classroom across from the beach. MOVIE: There will be free viewing of an environmental and other movies for teenagers at the Cooper Recreation Center Wednesday, June 28. Adults Please allow and advise your teenagers to come. “For ages 13 to 17 years old” Movie starts at 2 p.m., and questions and discussions afterward. Check it out! For information please call Ms. Dean @ 256-794-0172 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Thursday, June 29
EMERGENCY PERSONNEL DAY: Wind Creek State Park is hosting an emergency personnel day June 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit with emergency personnel from the surrounding area and see their vehicles and learn about how they are important to they community.
tent For Consising Advertis at call the Advertising Dept.
256.234.4281 + +
+
+
Small Space Advertising Works.
Friday, June 30
CHILDREN’S NATIVE AMERICAN ACTIVITIES: Horseshoe Bend National Military Park will present Children’s Native American Activities June 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to teach children how to create clay pots and play Native American games. Meet at the clubhouse at the campground playground.
For Consistent Advertising
at Low Rates ...
call the Advertising Department
256.234.4281
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
The Outlook
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 7
Page 8
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
Art
The Outlook
continued from page 1
While much of the Art Walk is geared towards the visual arts, Smith said that there were no real requirements or restrictions on what can be featured on Thursday evening. Anyone who is artistic would be welcomed. “If you have a saxophone and want to come down and play, or if you have a guitar and have written some songs of your own, we’ll find you a spot,” she said. For more information or to register to participate in Thursday’s Art Walk, call the MainStreet Alexander City office at (256)329-9227.
www.alexcityoutlook.com
DHR After being given the thumbs up from the state, the commissioners purchased the property in May 2016. Since that time all the hurdles and steps have been taken to get the process rolling. The county commissioners had to set up Public Building Authority, then secure bonds using the state’s credit rating. In March, the Dadeville City Council rezoned the property so it would be appropriate for a public service building. When all is said and done, the county will actually own the building, but will lease the building
Page 9
continued from page 1
back to DHR and the rent paid by the agency would repay the bonds. “It’s taken some time, but we are getting down to the final steps before construction starts,” Beck said. The DHR property was not the only move made by the commissioners on the land front. The commissioners voted 5-0 to sell a small parcel of property to Alabama Power Company to use as easement for power line. The parcel is near Thweatt Industrial Park and the commissioners agreed to sell the $14,200. The commissioners also voted not
to participate in the annual “Back To School Sales Tax Holiday.” In other items the commissioners voted unanimously to: • Approve the minutes from the May 8 meeting. • Approve all purchases and warrants. • Approve a proclamation acknowledging World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. • Approve adjustments, litigation, insolvents and errors from the Tallapoosa County Revenue Commissioners Office.
LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com
Page 10
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
www.alexcityoutlook.com
LUKE ROBINSON Columnist
A myriad of thoughts
E
very now and again there are a lot of topics to discuss, but none of them have the weight to carry one article. So, below are random thoughts on all of them… Some SEC schools may have a problem soon – a big buyout problem. See, there is only one great coach in the league. That coach is Nick Saban and even at his exorbitant salary, he is grossly underpaid. Then there are about five or six SEC coaches who are pretty good to above average. They all make way more money than they should. Here’s the rub: I think the league will be a lot better overall this year due to improved quarterback play. Teams like Auburn, Georgia, South Carolina, etc. may even overachieve a little. When teams overachieve, coaches get raises and extensions. Those raises and extensions will mean big buyouts when those same coaches underperform (i.e., revert to their standard). SEC schools have plenty of money, but it’s still a bad look to pay mediocre coaches a lot of cash not to work. Now that Bob Stoops has “retired” from Oklahoma (I put “retired” in quotations, but I certainly think he will be back Urban Meyer-style in a year or two), there are only four active head coaches who have won national championships: Saban, Meyer, Clemson’s Dabo Swinney and Florida State’s Jimbo Fisher. That number is ridiculously low. However, it is very, very cool that these four coaches have faced each other in some variety many, many times since Meyer won the title with Florida in 2008. Including 2017’s match up with ‘Bama and FSU, this quartet has played against each other in some way eight different times since the implantation of the College Football Playoff in 2014 alone. College football is giving the people what it wants in terms of the best playing the best. I don’t like hockey. I can’t watch it and I don’t understand it. It’s “baseball on ice” to me. But the other night I purposefully changed the channel to NBC to watch just a little of the Nashville PredatorsPittsburgh Penguins Stanley Cup game. I did so willingly and under no duress simply because “Preds-Fever” has gripped the city of Nashville like country singers grip a bottle of bourbon between sets. Sometimes a sport can transcend your ability to comprehend it and deliver a grand spectacle of sheer excitement and enthusiasm. Nashville has done the Stanley Cup right y’all. I must be a pretty impatient person. I already knew this fact, but it was confirmed Sunday when I checked into my hotel. The lady at the desk smiled and told me I would be on the third floor. I asked politely if there was a room on the first instead. She then wondered if I was afraid of heights. My response, “Nope… I just know this hotel chain is notorious for slow elevators and I don’t like to wait on them.” That, my friends, is my being emphatically and pathetically impatient. Like, hard-core, world-class, recordbreaking impatience. Well, the first step is admitting my problem I guess. Too bad I ain’t waiting around for the second step. Luke Robinson is a regular columnist and president of the Lake Martin BAMA Club.
WATSON IS TOP GUN
Shooting club hosts competitive, but fun event
By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
Everyone has a different sport they enjoy. Some like to kick up their feet and watch college football on Saturdays; some take to the golf course or a boat ride on the lake for their source of relaxation and enjoyment. In Alexander City, there’s a large group of people who relish in shooting competitively. Each month, the Alexander City Shooting Club, which boasts more than 264 official members, hosts different competitive events. This Sunday, it was a bowling pin match. Twenty competitors gathered at the club’s outdoor range. Each shooter was given five Vince Lee fires at a round of bowling pins during Sunday’s Alexander City Shooting Club match. rounds to shoot five bowling pins off a table of fire – when someone also happened to win the quickly rebounded and stationed 30 feet away. is shooting, competitors clocked his fourth round event outright, clocking Every bowling pin must are not allowed to handle in a mere 3.57 seconds. in at 20.14. Vance completely fall off the their gun at all when Some other top Williamson, who didn’t table, not just be knocked have a strong first round, individual rounds were someone is changing down. After five rounds, out the pins between Scott Watson’s first used another handgun the worst timed round rounds. Hearing and eye round of 3.90 and fifth to take second overall in is discarded and a total protection must be worn round of 3.80; Woody 20.36. time is calculated. at everyone at the range Baird, president of the Zach Watson, the Although many of during events, whether Shooting Club, nailed a youngest competitor of the shooters complained they be spectators or time of 3.96 in his final the day, placed first in about it being an off competitors. 20.46 seconds, and Mike attempt; and Williamson day, each of the top The ACSC is NRAand Goss both clocked in Goss rounded out the four shooters finished in under five seconds twice. affiliated and has liability top four with a time of under 21 seconds – or While a shooting club insurance and requires all 20.54. 5.25 seconds per round has inherent dangers, the members to have NRA Zach Watson also – and they were separed memberships. It is also Alex City club boasts took home a bit of prize by just four-tenths of a making early steps to itself on stringent safety money for having the second. become EPA compliant – measures. Not only is fastest individual round. The very first shooter a concrete platform was no one allowed to cross After having his worst of the day, Scott Watson, round of the day, Watson the “hot line” – or line just poured at the range
Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook
so competitors can easily pick up all of their brass. Baird also prides himself on offering training throughout the year; the shooting club offers concealed weapon permit courses, a handgun training course and courses in tactical and defensive use of firearms. In addition to the monthly bowling pin pistol matches, the club also hosts monthly rifle matches in which competitors attempt to shoot golf balls with rifles at 200 yards.
Area gearing up for All-Star tournaments By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
Youth All-Star action is just around the corner, and Alexander City will play host to one of the area’s district tournaments beginning today. For the next four days, Charles E. Bailey Sportplex will be home to the District 9 8U baseball team. Alex City will face its first game at 5:30 against Childersburg. If they win, they’ll move to a game Wednesday at 5:30, but if not, they’ll drop to the losers bracket for a game at 7:30 p.m. today. The championship game is scheduled for Friday at 5:30, with an if-necessary game to follow. Alex City will also host the NSA area softball tournament for all age groups. A more in-depth preview will be featured later this week.
New Site will be hosting its district 12U tournament, beginning Thursday. New Site will take on the winner of Woodland and Lineville at 7 p.m. Thursday. That championship game will be 11:30 a.m. Saturday with an if-necessary game Monday at 6 p.m. The winner and runner-up of each district tournament in baseball will advance to regionals, while softball goes directly to states. Other area tournaments include: Alex City 5U boys: In Sylacauga; begins Friday; games at 5 and 7 p.m. against Sylacauga. Alex City 6U boys: In Sylacauga; begins Thursday; first game at 5 p.m. against Sylacauga; if win, will play Lincoln at 7 p.m.; if lose, will play at 5 p.m. Friday Alex City 7U boys: In Sylacauga; begins Thursday; first game at 5 p.m. against
Sylacauga; if win, will play Phenix City at 7 p.m.; if lose, will play 5 p.m. Friday. Alex City 9U boys: In Phenix City; begins Friday; first game at 5:30 p.m. against Phenix City; if win, will play Sylacauga at 7:30 p.m.; if lose, will play 10 a.m. Saturday. Alex City 10U boys: In Childersburg; begins Thursday; first game at 5:30 p.m. against Sylacauga; if win, will play Talladega at 7:30 p.m.; if lose, will play 5:30 p.m. Friday. Alex City 11U boys: In Phenix City; begins Friday; first game at 5:30 p.m. against Phenix City; if win, will play Sylacauga at 7:30 p.m.; if lose, will play 10 a.m. Saturday. Alex City 12U boys: In Talladega; begins Thursday; first game at 7:30 p.m. against either Sylcauga or Talledega; if win, will play 7:30 p.m. Friday; if lose, will play 5:30 p.m. Friday. Dadeville 11-12 boys: In Tuskegee; begins Friday. Dadeville 7-8 boys: Begins Friday. Dadeville 9-10 boys: In Opelika; begins June 23.
Jasmine Tubbs wins 2 Xavier Moon, Kzyriah events at Auburn Johnson win gold at state By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
After a mini-meet to kick off the season two weeks ago, a majority of the Alex City Torpedos competed in Thursday’s swim meet in Auburn. Jasmine Tubbs was the star of the show, winning a pair of events and taking home second in another. Tubbs had the top time in both the girls 15-18 50-yard breaststroke and 50-yard backstroke. She touched the wall in 54.37 and 53.07, respectively. In the 50 freestyle, Tubbs was second in 39.08. Ava Barrett and Carley Forbus both had impressive days. Barrett took second in the girls 9-10 50 breaststroke with a time of 50.88; she was third in the 100 individual medley in 1:52.40; and she was fourth in both the 100 free (1:44.15) and the 50 butterfly (1:04.22). Forbus’ top swims were in the girls 11-12 50 breaststroke and the 100 IM. She clocked in in 41.66 and 1:22.26, respectively. Forbus was also fourth in the 50 free
(31.50) and fifth in the 100 free (1:14.96). In the girls 8U events, Brynlee Alford had a pair of top-five finishes. She was third in the 25 free with a time of 24.31 and placed fifth in the 25 backstroke (27.22). The only other top-five finish for the Torpedos was by Kandalyn Gregg and Brynlee Alford. Gregg earned the place in the girls 9-10 50 breaststroke (1:03.25) and was also seventh in the 50 freestyle (53.07). Other competitors included: Gabriella Wright, girls 8U: 25 backstroke (8th place, 29.65); 25 freestyle (9th, 29.08) Sarah Brown, girls 11-12: 50 breaststroke (6th, 58.94); 50 freestyle (8th, 40.26) Reagan West, girls 11-12: 50 breaststroke (7th, 59.27); 50 freestyle (9th, 40.34) Hailey Tubbs, girls 11-12: 50 breaststroke (8th, 1:06.28); 50 freestyle (10th, 44.20) Dani Smith, girls 11-12: 50 breastsroke (9th, 1:07.56); 50 freestyle (11th, 58.71)
By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
A pair of golds were brought home to Alexander City last week, as two Cooper Track Club athletes won a total of three events at the Alabama Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA) State Track Meet. Xavier Moon had the best performances for Cooper, winning two events and taking second in two others. He placed first in the boys 13-14 softball throw with a toss of 184-10, beating out the rest of the field by more than 35 feet. Moon also crushed the competition in the 800 run, finishing in 2:34.43, more than two seconds faster than anyone else. In the standing long jump, Moon was second with a mark of 8-6, and he was also runner-up in the 100 dash (12.92). On the girls side, Kzyriah Johnson had the top performance. She earned the gold medal in the 5-6 softball throw, tossing the softball 65-6 for a mark more than 20 feet further than anyone else. Johnson captured second in the standing long jump with a leap of 5-6. She was fourth in the 50 dash (8.70) and sixth in the 100 (17.09). Kaziayah Moon earned fifth place in both the girls 9-10 50- and 100-meter dashes. She finished in 8.11 and 15.75, respectively. Jariyah Williams was fourth in the girls 11-12 softball throw (96-0), and Quentaevious Lauderdale placed fourth in the boys 13-14 softball throw (1148).