OPINION, PAGE 4: AREA CELEBRATES LOCAL YOUTH
THE SPORTS, PAGE 10 Gracie Deason storms back after car accident
THURSDAY
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WARM RECEPTION FOR COOL TREATS Alabama axes ACT Aspire testing By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Customers wait in line for the grand opening of the new Dairy Queen on Wednesday. Doors opened at 10:30 a.m., but a crowd lined the building prior to the opening hoping to be one of the first 100 customers to buy a cake and earn two free blizzards per month.
Massive crowd welcomes Dairy Queen to Alexander City By MITCH SNEED Editor
To say that Alexander City was excited about the opening of Dairy Queen, you had to look no further than the scene outside the restaurant just before 6 a.m. Sarah Stone, Jake Fields and Collin Miller sat patiently in lawn chairs, waiting for the doors to open at 10:30 a.m. “I work part-time across the street at Days Inn and I called them at a little after 10 Tuesday night and asked them if there were already people up here,” Stone said. “They looked across and said there were people walking around in the parking lot. So I told my husband I’ve got to go.” Stone arrived at 11 p.m. and was the first in line to buy an Ice Cream Cake and get coupons for free Blizzards for a year. As it turned out, the people that were walking around in the parking lot were contractors finishing landscaping at the store so it would be ready for opening day. “They worked out here until midnight and they quit,” Stone said. “Look at this place, they had it sparking for today.” Fields and Miller arrived just before 4 a.m. and played cards to help pass the time. By the time the doors opened, that trio had plenty of
Within the last few years, the Alabama Department of Education replaced the Alabama Reading and Math Test with a nationally administered test, the ACT Aspire. Run by the same group involved with the ACT college entrance exam and given to students in third through eighth grade, the Aspire test measures a student’s comprehension of that year’s classroom material and is also able to help gauge the progress these students need to make in order to be ready for the college entrance ACT. Despite being able to analyze how students across the board were performing, the state Department of Education recently dropped its contract See ASPIRE • Page 5
Dadeville council moves forward on square renovation By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Jake Fields, Collin Miller and Sarah Stone wait outside Dairy Queen just before 6 a.m. Wednesday. The lure of free Blizzards for a year had Stone in line at about 11 p.m. Tuesday and Fields and Miller joined the group at about 4 a.m. The first 100 customers will get coupons for two free Blizzards a month See DQ • Page 5 for a year at the new restaurant.
The Dadeville City Council approved a $12,000 geotechnical study to allow progress to be made on the courthouse square renovation project that the city is partnering with Tallapoosa County on. The council also approved a quote that will allow the demolition of dilapidated structures to begin. According to Jeff Harrison with CDG, the firm overseeing the project explained the design and planning part of the project is about 50-percent complete and is currently in a holding phase until the study is completed. “Things are moving along with DOT,” See COUNCIL • Page 3
United Way summer reading program draws to a successful close By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
More than 200 children from area daycares were on hand Wednesday at Stephens Elementary School to take part in the final session of the 2017 United Way “Story Laboratory” summer reading program. Bricks4Kidz joined in the fun, providing attendees the chance to use their imagination to build items out of Lego bricks, as well as allowing the children to take a small set home with them. Dr. Doug Roberts was the community reader for the day, reading the 1993 parody book The Three Little Wolves and the Big Bad Pig. The groups got to zumba dance alongside nursing students from CACC and Auburn University, and were able to go through the large book boxes one more time, finding another group of titles to take
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home with them and enjoy. “It’s amazing how the book boxes are still full after all this time,” Marketing Director Courtney Layfield said as she opened up a couple of the boxes, showing how many books were still able to be picked out by the children, including Frog and Toad are Friends, Black Beauty, and a number of volumes in the Hardy Boys series. The finale also included awarding trophies sponsored by Wells Fargo bank to the top three participants who read the most during the past few weeks. Carter Neese was recognized as the top reader of the program, logging 782 minutes read. Second place went to Mason Kim, who read 514 minutes, and Hannah Yates’ 405 minutes were good enough to claim third. Individual winners with each of the
Lake Martin
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LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443 6
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laceyshowell@gmail.com 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL
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Donald Campbell / The Outlook
Children from the Boys & Girls Club take part in zumba dancing Wednesday morning.
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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.”
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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) The Outlook is published five times a week, Tuesday through Saturday mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.
How to Submit Obituaries
Thursday, June 29, 2017
The Outlook
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
DEAR ABBY: I’ve been dating a wonderful woman for two years. She has a son in high school I’ll call “Jon.” Like many teens I see, he is constantly on his smartphone, his schoolrequired tablet or playing video games on the TV in his bedroom. On a recent vacation, I decided enough was enough. Jon had headphones on and was watching videos online while we were at a restaurant. His mother was on her cellphone as I sat there wondering how long I’d wait. Jon’s grades have dropped and he doesn’t sleep well. I can see he is so connected to his electronics that he’s disconnected from people. While I don’t want to seem controlling, I now feel I have a vested interest in the boy. I care about him and see that the constant stimulation is affecting much of his life. I’m not sure he even knows how to make friends. Should I push for his TV to be taken out of his room?
DEAR ABBY Advice
His mother is excellent at setting her own boundaries, but because of her divorce, I think she’s reluctant to set boundaries for him. -- NEEDS HELP IN CHICAGO DEAR NEEDS HELP: If you haven’t discussed your concerns with Jon’s mother, you should, because they are valid. If his grades are suffering and he isn’t getting enough rest, it’s time for her to step up to the plate and start acting like a parent. When the three of you are having a meal together, the electronics should be put away, and you and your girlfriend should make a point of including her son in the conversation. At his age, he should be informed about and have
an opinion regarding current events. As to removing the television/gaming from his bedroom, his mother should warn him in advance that it will happen if his grades don’t improve. Interacting with others doesn’t come naturally to everyone. Developing these skills takes practice. Learning to make eye contact, carry on a conversation and pick up on social cues are skills people learn in person, not by texting. This is a conversation I have had with more than one mental health expert, and it’s something parents need to remember when interacting with their children. DEAR ABBY: My husband wants to help in the kitchen with the dishes. Call me stupid to complain, but he is causing me more work, and I don’t know what to do. This is the second marriage for both of us, and I am trying hard to be a kinder, gentler wife. When my husband washes the dishes, pots and
pans, he misses spots, sometimes lots of them. Also, he is impatient and doesn’t want to wait the three minutes it takes for the hot water to get to the kitchen, so he washes in cold water. I tell him I will take care of the dishes, but then he gets upset with me. How do I handle this without hurting his feelings or his pride? -- KINDER, GENTLER WIFE DEAR K.G.W.: Sometimes it’s not what we say but how we say it that can hurt someone’s feelings or pride. Tell your husband that you love him and know he wants to do this for you, but, respectfully, his “talents” lie elsewhere. Because he is willing to help, entrust him to the important task of doing the rinsing and/or drying. 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.
Red sky in morning, sailors take warning
Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, Kenneth Boone Photography and a commercial web printing press. © 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by e-mail at obits@alexcityoutlook.com or by fax at (256) 234-6550. For more information, call (256) 234-4281.
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
The morning sun’s appearance in the sky over Coley Creek Wednesday morning created an incredible view at about 5:30 a.m. The vapor rising from the water as fish and insects created ripples make the scene a true Kodak moment.
Obituaries Mr. Willie Frank Stewart 1950 - 2017 Funeral Service for Mr. Willie Frank Stewart, 66, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Sunday, July 2, 2017 at 4:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 2, 2017 from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. 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
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.
Constable’s eligibilty questioned due to criminal past enforcement officer where he was sentenced to two years in a Florida state Jacksons Gap resident prison. David Glaze is currently Alabama Code serving as the Tallapoosa prohibits those that have County Constable for Beat been convicted of any 18 and was sworn into crime punishable by office in January of this imprisonment in state or year, but his eligibility to federal penitentiary from hold the office has been holding office. questioned. Glaze was before A petition was filed in Circuit Court Judge circuit court in February Tom Young to answer challenging Glaze’s questions about his past eligibility based on a that might disqualify him felony conviction in Sept. from holding office. 1982 in Florida where “I got my rights back,” Glaze was found guilty of Glaze told the court. bail bond jumping from a “I got back my right to charge of battery of a law vote.” By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
District Attorney Jeremy Duerr argued that having voting rights restored is not enough. “Unless he has a pardon, it is still on his record,” Duerr said. Glaze explained that he has been working on rectifying the issue, having applied for a pardon. “It’s in the governor’s office,” Glaze said. Young explained that might not be good enough depending on what the law says. Young wanted some time to study the issue and explained to both
Duerr and Glaze that he would likely rule in the next week or so asking them for any code or case law that might apply. “Restoration of civil rights except possessing a weapon might not be good enough,” Young said. “If a pardon is the only thing that will clear it, I will probably rule to remove from office.” Constable is not the only office Glaze has sought. He qualified to run for mayor in Jacksons Gap receiving 10 votes in the August 2016 municipal election in the town.
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 256-2154499 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 @ 256-215-4494 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 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.
Ongoing Events
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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 256-4092020 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 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) 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.
Thursday, June 29, 2017
The Outlook
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participating groups were Neese of Jacob’s Ladder, Kim at After the Bell, Yates from Harbor Learning Academy, Lana Vasquez of Parent Trap with 307 minutes, Caitlynn Heard of Yes I Can with 315 minutes, Kenneth Mozo from the Boys & Girls Club at 150 minutes and Leah Leonard and Victoria Freeman of Woody Woodpecker tying with 115 minutes each. Working alongside the people from United Way were a group of nursing students from CACC and Auburn, the Benjamin Russell High School Men and Women organization and other student volunteers from around the area. “The CACC nurses use this as an instructional time, studying child development,” United Way Executive Director Sharon Fuller said. The nursing students from Auburn were there for a similar purpose, and many of the high school students took part in order to receive credit for community service. Some of the volunteers helping out on Wednesday expressed how they felt about being able to work on the summer reading program. “I had a great time this summer. I think this is something everyone should do,” rising Horseshoe Bend senior Brianna Jones said. Jones first came into contact with Fuller through her participation in the Junior Leadership Lake Martin program. During one of the last sessions of the JLLM program, Fuller had gone before the students, telling them about United Way and giving each of them her business card. Jones held on to the card and recently contacted Fuller to see about volunteering with United Way. “Working with the United Way is a great way to be involved and interact with children,” said Assistant Clinical Professor Margot Fox from the Auburn School of Nursing, who brought 12 nursing students with her Wednesday. “It gives them the opportunity to interact with the community outside of the hospital setting.” All of the children involved appeared to have a good time on Wednesday, enjoying the fun enrichment that came from being part of the program. “I want to give a special thanks to the CACC nurses for helping lead groups each week, and to the Auburn nurses for taking part and helping out today,” United Way Volunteer and reading program director Jeri-Lynn Martin said. With a grand total of 515 hours and two minutes read among all of the participants, the 2017 United Way “Story Laboratory” summer reading program was, without a doubt, a great success for everyone.
Council
Donald Campbell / The Outlook
Top: Dr. Doug Roberts reads the book The Three Little Wolves and the Big Bad Pig to a group of children during Wednesday’s United Way summer reading program finale. Bottom: Benjamin Russell Men and Women students join in the zumba dancing fun at the summer reading program finale.
continued from page 1
Harrison said. “We have got comments back from DOT and things are looking good. The have the traffic study but before they will say anything about allowing a continuous traffic flow they want a geotechnical study.” Harrison explained that the study would involve pulling four cores from Tallassee and Cusseta streets to see if the base under the road would allow for the expected traffic. The council approved the $47,288 quote from Thomas Land Clearing of Birmingham to allow the company to clear the structures from the first of the lots identified under the demolition grant. The motion passed unanimously but Dick Harrelson did abstain from the vote as his wife owns one of the properties in the project. Paul Monroe, who is handling the demolition grant for the city, explained that four companies were registered and received requests for quotes and that only Thomas Land Clearing responded. Monroe said work on the nearly 10 structures should begin sometime after the July 4 holiday and that more structures are being put together in manageable projects.
“We will be accepting quotes on about four more lots,” Monroe said. “We are grouping the structures to help contractors.” Council members briefly debated increasing the service area that meals from the Nutrition Center would be delivered after the center asked for clarification of the delivery area with a requests for home deliver of meals outside of the city limits. The council voted to keep the deliver area limited to the area within the city limits not only as being one of the benefits of living in the city limits and because of the condition of the delivery vehicle. “That old van does not work good,” Harrelson said. “It is as crippled as I am.” The council also voted to create the Nutrition Advisory Council. The Nutrition Center currently provides about 27 meals a day in the Dadeville area with half being delivered to homebound residents and the other meals served at the recreation center. City Building Inspector Michael Richardson informed the council that the planning commission would be requesting the rezoning
of three to four lots. “One of them is in the neighborhood of the Highway 280 intersection with Highway 49,” Richardson said. Council member Betty Adams was absent from the meeting. The council also: • approved minutes from the last meeting. • approved recreation center rentals. • approved the sale of the 1992 Ford Ambulance for $1 to the Eagle Creek Volunteer Fire Department that had previously been declared surplus property. • approved the purchase of two recliners at $390 each and a couch for $450 from Payne’s Furniture for the fire department. The purchase will be made from donated funds. • learned that the Kings United Men’s Group is holding a citywide clean up day July 8. • learned the gas board has ordered supplies for the gas line on a portion of Tallassee Street. • learned the water board is increasing the basic water rate from $25.50 to $26.25. The next meeting of the Dadeville City Council is July 11 at 6 p.m. with a pre-meeting at 5:30 p.m.
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Langley Funeral Home P.O. Box 130 | 21837 U.S. Hwy. 280 | Dadeville, AL 35011 256-896-2571 | www.langleyfuneralhome.com
MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213
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EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
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Thursday, June 29, 2017
Our
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Quote Start out like you can hold out Area celebrates local youth I Today’s Scripture L Today’s
ate Sunday night, we got a call to come out to New Site’s youth ball fields for the arrival of the first team in leading history to win a softball state championship. Although it was past our bedtimes, we jumped out of PJs and into our cars and got to be a part of a fantastic celebration. Nearly 100 of the New Site faithful were gathered around as the 8U All-Star softball team finally pulled in at nearly midnight, escorted by a police car and a firetruck to arrive to chanting fans. Among the crowd was mayor Phil Blasingame, who gave a tear-jerking speech to the newlycrowned winners: “The best years of my life were in this complex right here. It starts right here, and parents, while (your kids) are doing it, soak it in because it’ll be gone before you can blink your eye.” New Site wasn’t the only team to take part in recent celebrations, as Alexander City’s 10U All-Star squad was also invited to appear on Tuesday night’s Lake Martin Sports Roundup. The team, which cheered in the back of a pickup a truck, was paraded through town with a police car and firetruck leading the way. This time of year is a great time to celebrate our youth’s talents, and this summer was full of young success. In addition to the two state champions, Alex City’s 5U, 6U and 8U baseball teams all won District 5 titles. Alex City’s 12U and 10U softball teams reigned supreme at the NSA Area tournament, and Dadeville’s 11-12 Majors are headed to state after winning District 10. As Blasingame said, this is where it all starts, and if this summer is any indication, it should bode well for future sports around Tallapoosa County.
was eating dinner with my wife and motherin-law recently when we began talking about how some people excel in the early stages of dating. The suitor pulls out all the stops when he starts courting, but after marriage, he cannot sustain the level of affection and attention he showed during the dating process. This waning regard usually comes as a great shock to the partner who has been overwhelmed by the care and love given before the marriage. My mother-in-law Joyce is from the country and is almost always able to remember an old saying she learned from her mother that applies to every subject. With no hesitation, she gave me this pearl of wisdom. She said, “Ray, my momma always told us, you need to start out like you can hold out.” That little saying has me thinking. Is there an application for those of us who want to live bright, beautiful lives? I believe there is. I am learning steady beats big and dramatic almost every
RAY WATERS Columnist
day. As a young man, I often fixated on the idea of dramatic wins, large grand openings, and phenomenal successes. Thinking about those things was fun. But they seldom worked out. And if they did, they didn’t maintain that level of success for long. My obsession with the flashy and grand seemed to be more fanciful than rooted in reality. Please don’t misunderstand. I believe in big dreams. I believe you are capable of amazing things. I just find it healthier for me to pursue meaningful dreams sustainably. I want to start out like I can hold out. I have seen the same mistake when someone decides they want to get in better shape. I have done it myself. I create an elaborate plan of workouts and the diet I will live on until I reach my ideal weight. My workout plan
looks impressive. It says I will run in the morning, lift weights in the afternoon and walk at night. I will consume 800 calories a day. Watch me get down to my dream weight in record time. But guess what? That plan NEVER WORKS. I will do it today and tomorrow, and by the third day, I will be so exhausted I can’t get out of the bed. Then I will get depressed, and when I do get out of the bed, I will head straight to Dairy Queen. If I want to change my life, it is always better to think through a sustainable, realistic plan that will be achievable this week and can become my health and wellness plan for the rest of my life. Country people have a way of summing up situations with great clarity and insight. As you begin your next project, I hope you will remember the adage, “You need to start out like you can hold out.” There is great wisdom there. Ray Waters is a minister, a motivational speaker and a syndicated columnist.
represents District 1. His phone number is 256392-0344. His address is 1821 LaVista Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Public Safety committee. District 2. Her phone number is 256-750-0663. Her address is 786 I Street, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Buildings and Property committee.
Buffy Colvin
Scott Hardy represents District 3. His phone number is 256-4962450. His address is 549 Sleepy Hollow Drive, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Parks and Recreation committee.
Scott Hardy
Eric Brown represents District 4. His phone number is 256-3972011. His address is 1421 Parrish Drive, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Public Works committee.
Eric Brown
Tommy Spraggins represents District 5. His phone number is 256-234-3609. His address is 1539 College Street, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of Finance committee.
Tommy Spraggins
Tim Funderburk represents District 6. His phone number is 256-825-2993. His address is 1431 River Oaks, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of Utilities committee.
Tim Funderburk
Wednesday Question: Do you think there are too many fast-food restaurants in Alexander City?
No – 58% Yes – 42%
Thursday Question: Have you been to the new Dairy Queen in Alexander City yet?
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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Know Your Jim Nabors is mayor of Alexander City. His phone number at city hall is 256-329-6730 and his home number is 256329-1320 His address at city hall is 4 Court Square; Alexander City, AL, 35010. His home address is 1695 Magnolia Street Alexander City, AL, 35010.
“Go for it now. The future is promised to no one.” –Wayne Dyer
A
s most folks across East Alabama know, the Supreme Court recently struck down in part the preliminary injunction against President Trump’s terrorist travel ban and will hear the case when the Supreme Court picks back up in October. This comes as great news in helping keep America safe after the repeated terrorist attacks across Europe. Many in the media elite are made uncomfortable when we call this form of terrorism what it is: Radical Islam. I am not. We cannot afford to give this hateful and totalitarian ideology an opportunity to further infiltrate and attack America. The Supreme Court’s decision was a victory for President Trump by allowing the plan to go into effect. I strongly support President Trump’s extreme vetting policy and believe it will help keep Islamic extremists out of the United States. However, it is still possible the Supreme Court will try to strike down the ban after hearing the case in October. If this happens, I plan to introduce legisla-
MIKE ROGERS Congressman
any illegal immigrant felon who has been deported and returns to the U.S. And as part of President Trump’s agenda, our country still needs to build a wall along our porous Southwest border with Mexico. My bill, H.R. 1813, would help pay for this wall to be built by imposing a fee on remittance transactions to South and Central America to be set aside to help pay for the wall. We must continue to do everything we can to keep America safe. I want to hear from you on this or any issue. Please sign up for my e-Newsletter by visiting www.mikerogers.house.gov. To stay up to date, you can also like me on Facebook at Congressman Mike D. Rogers, follow me on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram at RepMikeRogersAL, on Tumblr at www.repmikerogersal.tumblr.com and you can also subscribe to my YouTube page at MikeRogersAL03.
tion to expressly give the president legal authority to keep potential terrorists out of our country. Congress is also working on protecting Americans from another angle by tightening immigration enforcement and punishing sanctuary cities. This week, the House of Representatives is voting on two bills that I fully support. The first bill, H.R. 3003, the No Sanctuary for Criminals Act, helps keep these Sanctuary Cities from protecting illegal immigrants who have committed crime from federal immigration enforcement, and contains Sarah and Grant’s Law, which ensures any illegal immigrant convicted of a dangerous crime will be detained for the duration of his or her removal proceedings. Rep. Mike Rogers is a The second bill, H.R. congressman representing 3004, Kate’s Law, further Alabama’s third district. strengthens penalties for
The subscription rate is $136.00 per year in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and $177.99 outside the area. Periodicals paid at Alexander City, AL. Newspapers are available at 100 news racks in our area at 75 cents for The Outlook and 50 cents for The Record. We would love to deliver a paper to your door. Call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281, Ext. 204 or e-mail david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook. com.
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Aspire with the ACT Aspire test. Alabama State Superintendent Michael Sentance said that, until a permanent replacement for the Aspire test could be agreed upon, the state would utilize the Scantron assessment test series. Alexander City Superintendent Dr. Darrell Cooper expressed his sentiments regarding the state dropping the Aspire test, saying that there were some issues he saw with the test and hoping that the permanent replacement will meet all
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the necessary standards the state has in place. “The Aspire test was not correlating to our standards as closely as we had hoped,” Cooper said. “Also, the reports we receive are not as detailed as what we received from tests we have used in the past.” While he did have some issues with it, Cooper did not believe that the Aspire was a bad test overall. However, “The test should be aligned to the standards,” he said. “It can be a good showing if it’s aligned
right. It gives us a good story of where we are.” Another issue that he had is that, if the test given to the students changes every few years, a situation not conducive to getting the best possible results. On the positive side, Cooper said that he did not believe changing the test from the ACT Aspire to the Scantron would have a huge impact on the students. In the future, Cooper said his hope is that the state chooses a good
assessment test that not only matches Alabama standards but also provides educators with detailed reporting about what expectations students were meeting and what needed worked on, either at the individual or the school level. “I don’t care what test we use as long as it’s fair and aligns with our standards,” he said. Attempts to get comments on the scrapping of the ACT Aspire test from the Tallapoosa County school system were unsuccessful.
continued from page 1
company, according to Fourteen Foods Community Marketing Manager Will Connell. “It was an incredible day,” Connell said. “It was pretty crazy out here. We had more than 150 in line at the opening hoping for the free Blizzards and Ice Cream Cake promotion. That was just a tremendous response.” Connell said the company is used to warm receptions in communities where Dairy Queens open, but said Wednesday’s opening ranks Alexander City among the best. “It’s definitely up there as one of the best,” Connell said. “The community response has been really, really great. Not only the way the residents have responded, but the reception we have gotten from city leaders and the Chamber, it has been incredible. We are very happy to be here in Alexander City and look forward to being an important part of this community for a long, long time.” The opening day was complete with a ribbon cutting from the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, with elected officials and area business leaders on hand to welcome the area’s newest merchant. In a year that saw record sales tax revenue, Dairy Queen will likely be another boost to the local economy. The store will employ about 80 people who will pay taxes. On the sales side, an exact number of customers for the restaurant’s first day wasn’t finalized, but the estimate was in the neighborhood of 1,000 transactions one employee said. If each one of those transactions corresponds to a person, that would mean about 6.7 percent of the city’s population visited the store Wednesday. “Like I said, we were overwhelmed by the way that people of Alexander City welcomed us,” Connell said.
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Top: Some customers found the deal so good Wednesday that they left Dairy Queen with a cake in both hands. An estimated 150 people were lined up when the doors opened to get a look at the new restaurant. Middle and bottom left: Contractors worked until midnight Tuesday laying sod and putting other finishing touches in and around Dairy Queen. Bottom right: Customers give order to Dairy Queen employees Wednesday.
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CommunityCalendar SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
Today is
June 29, 2017 Today’s Events
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700
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, see their vehicles and learn about how they are important to the community. SUMMER ARTS PRESENTATION: The Dadeville
Thursday, June 29, 2017
The Outlook
Summer Arts program is presenting “The Wizard of Oz” June 29 at 9 a.m. JEWELRY SALE: The Russell Medical Auxiliary is hosting the Masquerade $5 Jewelry Sale in the Russell Medical Community Room June 29-30 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: West End Baptist Church 3040 Old Dark Rd. Alexander City is hosting Vacation Bible School, Galactic Strarveyors, June 26 - June 29 from 5 pm to 8 pm. Dinner for everyone is from 5-6 p.m. and VBS will be from 6-8 p.m. There will be classes for nursery
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/. age up to adults and a van will be running. If you need a ride, you can call the church at 256-234-2130 between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Today’s Birthdays
Haley Webb, Zack Baker and Jennifer Goodwin are celebrating their birthdays today.
The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow
Today’s Anniversaries
Nita and Gary Livingston, Mr. and Mrs. James Bunn, Mr. and Mrs. Benji Patterson and Bryan and Michele Shanahan are celebrating their anniversaries today.
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
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Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy 2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
Come Visit Us! Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing
The United Way Summer Reading Program was celebrated Wednesday and overall winners were crowned. Pictured are: Carter Neese (1st place with 782 minutes); Mason Kim (2nd place with 514 minutes); Hannah Yates (3rd place with 405 minutes).
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 Wind Creek State Park clubhouse at the campground playground. MOVIE NIGHT: River of Life Worship Center is hosting a movie night June 30. Beyond the Mask will start at 7:30 p.m. Concessions will be sold.
Saturday, July 1
dB
Lawn Care Darrell Brooks, Owner Cutting •Edging Weed Eating •Mulch Weed Control
CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT: The 2nd Annual Lake Martin Championship Cornhole Tournament will be Saturday, July 1 at The Rodeo Club. Registration begins at 10 a.m. and includes a T-shirt while supplies last. Bags fly at noon. The first tournament is a blind draw for $25 a person and the second tournament is bring your own partner at $20 a team. There is a guaranteed $1,000 in prize money. For more information, contact the Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce or The Rodeo Club.
Sunday, July 2
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CHURCH MEMORIAL: The Almighty God Baptist Church in Goodwater is hosting its 37th Church Memorial Sunday, July 2 at 2 p.m. Guest speaker will be Rev. Robert Williams, pastor of Peace and Goodwill Baptist Church in Kellyton. Pastor of Almighty God Baptist Church is Rev. Lorenzo Caldwell.
Wednesday, July 5
FIELD AND FOREST HIKE: Wind Creek State Park is hosting a field and forest hike July 5 at 9 a.m. The walk is for all ages. Meet at the outdoor classroom across from the beach. MONTHLY LUNCHEON: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have their Monthly Luncheon on Wednesday July 5 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Please bring a covered dish and a small donation.
Thursday, July 6
BINGO NIGHT: Jake’s Restaurant is hosting a bingo night July 6 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to benefit the Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area. Jake’s will also host bingo every Thursday in July to benefit the Boys and Girls Club.
Friday, July 7
MOVIE NIGHT: River of Life Worship Center is hosting a movie night July 7. God’s Not Dead will start at 7:30 p.m. Concessions will be sold.
Saturday, July 8
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
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.
Sunday, July 9
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 welcome.
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
start at 7:30 p.m. Concessions will be sold.
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.
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.
July 10-14
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.
July 11-14
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.
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 downloaded at www.tallapoosabaptist.org under the Resource tab. For more information, please call 256825-4441.
Friday, July 14
MOVIE NIGHT: River of Life Worship Center is hosting a movie night July 14. God’s Not Dead II will
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Saturday, July 22
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.
July 13-15
256-234-6071
1945 Hwy 280 • Alexander City
Friday, July 21
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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Wednesday, July 26
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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.
at call the Advertising Dept.
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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 Disable 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 256-861-6177. Proceeds will be used to help feed Veterans.
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Thursday, June 29, 2017
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Thursday, June 29, 2017
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Cornhole Championship at Rodeo Club coming this Saturday Kiwanis Golf Tournament was a complete success: Our Kiwanis golf tournament at StillWaters on June 26 was an all-day wonderful success, plenty of happy players, perfect weather, lots of fun and comaraderie. The winners were Randy Nolan with Closest to the Pin; Joe Robertson with the longest drive; the team of Caldwell/Joiner/Nolan/Baker with lowest gross score and the team of Tony Johnson, Mark Tuggle, Matt Campbell, and Phil McClendon with the lowest net score. Everyone had fun and were great sports. Can’t wait until next year. Cornhole Tournament at the Rodeo Club: On Saturday, July 1 there will be the 2nd Annual Lake Martin Championship cornhole tourament at the Rodeo Club. Registration begins at 10 a.m. and includes a t-shirt. Bags fly at noon. For more information, please contact the Dadeville Chamber of Commerce at 256825-4019. Red Ridge Methodist Church news: Singles will have dinner at Elmers at 4:30 p.m. st Friday, June 30. Red Ridge welcomes a new preacher Rev. Vicki Cater on July 2. She has been a full-time elder in the North Alabama Conference since 2006 and has been in pastoral ministry for 24 years. She served Steele UMC in the Mountain Lakes District for the past 8 years. Walnut Grove UMC was added to her appointment three years ago. She attended Mississippi University for Women and earned a Master of Divinity at Candler School of Theology in Atlanta. She presently serves as administrator for the Conference License School licensing local pastors and teaching a class in spirituality. She also serves on the Conference Board of
Ordained Ministry. She is trained in disaster relief, is a licensed rape response counselor, crisis counselor and does volunteer work as a hospital chaplain. She is married to Bill Cater and is from Hueytown, Al. United Methodist Women is sponsoring a “Pounding” for her on July 2 and an arrival celebration, a covered dish event, will be held in the Fellowship Hall on July 9 after the regular morning service. The choir’s anthem July 2 is “God Bless the USA.” The RRUMC music program welcomes all who wish to please God by sharing their musical talents in his worship. The choir is taking a month break. Anyone interested in the choir would be welcomed after the break in August or anyone with a special talent could perform during the choir’s break. New people are always needed. Beth Cox, nursing home volunteer, is asking for “Christmas in July” for nursing home patients in need of clothing. Angel Doll Ministry will not meet July 4. The next meeting will be July 25 at which time construction of dolls for the annual Christmas Franklin Graham Shoe Boxes will be started. RR is still in need of an audio-visual technical coordinator. Anyone interested, contact the church office for details. RR is located at 8091 County Road 34, corner of 49 and 34, Dadeville, 256-825-9820, redridgeumc.org. Visit RR on facebook. First Presbyterian Church news: Service at the Presbyterian Church last Sunday was great. We were missing our lovely pianist Dawn, but her hubby Dale played guitar
for his first Sunday, July 2 at 10:30 a.m. Brother Michael Carver comes to us having served the past five years at Taylor Memorial United Methodist. BETTY HAYES Michael grew up in Corner, Columnist Alabama and is a graduate of Samford University and and son Caleb played piano Memphis Theological Seminary. like a pro! Thank God for this He was an ER charge nurse for musical family, always willing several years at BMC Princeton to entertain us and share their in Birmingham before accepting talents. Dawn’s father went to heaven recently, and her family God’s call to full-time pastoral ministry in 1994. has our blessings. He and his family have The title of our sermon was “Take up your cross and follow” served several churches in our conference since 1995, with scriptures from Jeremiah 20; Psalm 69; and Matthew 10. including Brilliant/Mt. Pisgah It was wonderful having Rev. UMC, Trussville 1st UMC (associate), Carbon Hill Ben back from vacation, and UMC, Blountsville UMC, hearing about his Alaska trip. and Randall’s Chapel UMC in They had an “inland Passage Tour” which sounded beautiful, Scottsboro. Brother Michael has been active in Emmaus glaciers dropping off in the ocean with a rumble. They also and Kairos ministries, as well as in foreign mission trips to saw bald eagles, 40 50 of Honduras and Cuba. He has them! Very unusual to see a group this large of eagles. They a heart for missions, firmly believing we are to reach out also saw a couple of brown bears and some whales and sea beyond our walls to share the love of Christ with the lions. They had a sumptuous community, both locally and feast of crab legs. They went globally. to the “clinkets” native bands, Michael and his wife, Pam, which was a big treat for have three adult children everyone. The glaciers tend in college at UAB. Their to look blu-ish. What a treat it was for Rev. Ben to realize that daughter, Christen, graduates this semester. Their son, he was seeing something that Kenneth, is a junior, and had been there for thousands their youngest, John, is a of years. I’ve never been to freshman. Pam is an adult Alaska, but Ben’s descriptions nurse practitioner and assistant made me want to go. professor of nursing at Samford Come visit us at the University. Presbyterian Church and Rev. Brother Michael and Pam Ben will make you feel most look forward to serving welcome. Dadeville FUMC and the United Methodist Church surrounding community. We news: The new meeting time trust the Lord has great things for our youth is on Sundays in store and look forward to the from 2 until 4 pm. ministry God has ahead for all Welcome to our new pastor, of us. Rev. Michael Carver. Our Vision: In God’s love We are excited to welcome Michael Carver to the area and we will grow, share, raise up servant leaders, and change the to our church! Please join us
world! DFUMC has a long history of honoring our departing pastors with a financial gift, compiled as individual gifts from our members. Your gifts may be through June 25, mailed to the church office, or presented directly to our Church Administrator, Leighanne Temple. Please mark checks or envelopes as Pastor Honorarium. Thank you. Come visit us at the Methodist Church in Dadeville, and Rev. William Brown will make you feel most welcome! Wellness Center news: We are so proud of all of those who have committed to healthier lifestyles for this year. We can help you reach your goals, whether it is a short term or long-term goal. We have a wonderful staff who can help you with your fitness needs. Call us today for more information at 256-825- 2304 or come by and visit. We are open Monday-Friday 5 a.m. 8 p.m. and Saturday 7 a.m. - noon. Line dancing news: Betsy Keown’s line dancing class is happening at the Dadeville Recreation Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. until noon for a fee of $1 per class. For questions, call Betsy at 256-825-3985. Please note the line dancing class is taking a summer break for the month of July and will resume the first Tuesday in August. Thought for Today: Not keeping an appointment is an act of clear dishonesty. You may as well borrow a person’s money as his time! Hayes is a community columnist for The Outlook. She is a resident of Dadeville and writes about the events and people of the Dadeville area.
LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com
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Thursday, June 29, 2017
www.alexcityoutlook.com
‘LITTLE MIRACLE’ Gracie Deason storms back after car accident
M
Submitted / The Outlook
Despite being in a horrific accident in December 2015, New Site’s Gracie Deason was a top hitter for the 8U All-Star team, which won the state championship last weekend. She played catcher for New Site this season.
“I never lost faith and never gave up, and look at her now.” — Jamie Peavy Gracie’s mother before the accident and has difficulty with balance – her recovery remains an unlikely one. “She’s learned to be more independent since the accident and is getting a lot better trying to do things by herself,” Scott Peavy said. “I’ve seen her fight through this car accident and pushed through it a lot stronger than other people would have.” It hasn’t been an easy journey, but the Peavys said the community support has been outstanding. That support was on display Sunday night, as New Site fans gathered at the youth ball field complex to greet Gracie and the 8U AllStars as they arrived home from their championship journey. “Her teammates, coaches and the other parents have never given up on her,” Jamie Peavy said. “They are some of her biggest fans, and I’m so thankful we had them. I love our community and these girls.”
New Site seeking donations for USSSA World Series STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
After winning the NSA Alabama state championship last week, New Site’s 8U AllStar team has the opportunity to travel to Gulf Shores to compete in the USSSA World Series beginning July 9. It will be a week-long event, and the team is seeking donations for travel and accommodation expenses. The team has set up on online fundraising site at www.youcaring.com/ newsiteyouthsports-861970,
Columnist
Christmas in July came with tire smoke and race fuel
By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
In many ways, it’s a miracle for Gracie Deason to even be walking. On Dec. 14, 2015, Gracie was in a horrific car accident that killed the beloved Animal Control Officer, Kelly Cotney, and left Gracie with a broken femur, a collapsed lung, an orbital fracture and two traumatic brain injuries. She was in a coma for five days, unable to talk for 20 and was without movement in the entire left side of her body for about 30 days following the accident. So when Gracie had a big hand in New Site’s first-ever softball state championship for the 8U All-Star team last weekend, it obviously turned heads. “I figured she wouldn’t ever get to play again, and honestly, it was the last thing on our minds,” said Scott Peavy, Gracie’s step-father and 8U coach. “They didn’t know what was going to happen. At one time, they couldn’t tell us if she’d fully recover or not. With brain injuries, you just never know.” Despite all odds, it really took Gracie just a few months to get back on the softball diamond. Although Gracie spent some in a wheelchair, she returned to school mid-February and was finally playing softball again by early April. “She’s my little miracle,” said Jamie Peavy, Gracie’s mom. “On Day 5 of her accident, they didn’t give us a lot of hope, but I never gave up. I never lost faith and never gave up, and look at her now. She was on track to be a great little ballplayer prior to her accident. She was truly developing a love for the game.” That love never dissipated, but it definitely changed. Gracie was a standout infielder for her travel ball team but, because of her injuries, has stuck strictly to catching and hitting. Learning how to catch all over again was a battle for Gracie, and, according to Jamie, Gracie was disappointed she wasn’t as good as she was before. But in the end, it was all worth it. “(It felt) really good to get back because I missed it,” Gracie said. “I liked when I could talk to (my teammates) and actually get to play with them.” Jamie said, “We have pushed her when she was ready to quit, and I think she’s thankful we did. She’s not an MVP player most games and goes unnoticed a lot of time, but Sunday, she was on her game hitting.” New Site had a hard-fought journey through the NSA 8U State Championship. After two victories, New Site fell to the losers bracket with a loss to the undefeated JD All-Stars. But they immediately stormed back, winning three straight games including two games against JD to win the crown. And the unlikeliest of sources, Gracie, was the hero of the day. She had numerous doubles and several key RBIs, especially in the two championship games. New Site’s coaching staff named her the Player of the Tournament. “She hit the ball tremendously,” Scott Peavy said. “That’s the best she’s hit in a while.” Jamie said, “I’m always proud of her and her teammates, but (Sunday night) was amazing.” Although Gracie still has her struggles – she’s still a bit weak on the left side of her body, can’t run as fast as she could
JOE MCADORY
and is also taking in-person donations from individuals and business. For more information, contact Megan Price at 256794-1697. Final days for discounted youth football Registration for the 2017 Alex City Parks and Rec Youth Flag & Tackle League is now open with two days remaining for the discounted price. Participants can save $10 when registering in June. For 5- and 6-year-old football, the June price is
$45, and for 7- to 12-year-old tackle football, the June price is $65. Cost rises by $10 in July. Age is based on child’s age as of Sept. 1, 2017 and a birth certificate is required. Registration is open to Alex City residents only and can be done Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Sportplex Gym Office. Outlook searching for freelancers Are you interested in writing about local sports? Are you familiar with keeping stats at a game or finding an interesting
story? Do you have a camera and know a thing or two about taking action photos? You may be the perfect fit as a freelance writer or photographer for the Alexander City Outlook. The sports department will be ramping up its freelance coverage during the fall season, and is looking for people to start getting experienced now. If interested, contact sports editor Lizi Arbogast at 256-2344281 ext. 228, or by email at lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook. com.
y late father opened my bedroom door, took a few steps and said, “Son, it’s time to wake up.” My eyes opened wide and I leapt out of bed with excitement. My heart raced and I had difficulty holding back the excitement as the sun cracked the horizon. No, it wasn’t Christmas morning. It was the Fourth of July … and in Daytona Beach, Florida, it was the most spectacular holiday of the year to this youngster. In just a matter of hours, I would sit atop my perch in the DePalma grandstands at Daytona International Speedway and get to watch my heroes – the likes of Bobby Allison, Richard Petty, Buddy Baker and David Pearson – race door handle to door handle at 200 mph. What was appropriately called the Firecracker 400 has evolved into today’s corporate sponsorship title “Coke Zero 400.” Since there was no television involved to dictate starting times, the green flag fell at 10 a.m. on each Fourth of July. It didn’t matter if the date was a Monday, Tuesday, or whatever, the race was run on July 4. Was it hot? You bet it was, but we dealt with it. By 12:30 p.m., the event was over and folks had the rest of the day to go to the beach, cook out, whatever. I’ve seen my share of Firecracker 400s and my favorites were any time an Allison won. But none are more memorable than the day of the King and President. No driver represented NASCAR more than King Richard Petty. He was the face of the sport: the hat, the sunglasses, the championships, the wins. Petty was great with the fans and often showed a congenial, fun attitude. President Ronald Reagan was obviously popular, otherwise he would not have won two landslide elections. Like Petty, Reagan had a warm personality, a reputation for making others around him feel special, was a jokester and was sharp as a tack (except for that whole Iran Contra thing). On July 4, 1984, Reagan was one of us, a fan at Daytona International Speedway – except he was allowed to sit in the luxury suites. I bet the Gipper would have had a great time down on row 25 soaking up the sun, tire smoke and racing fumes with us commoners. There’s nothing like the smell of Budweiser and Unocal 76. Not only was the president in the house, but Petty in his almost red (hot orange), white and blue allAmerican-looking Pontiac battled for his historic 200th win. Pretty special stuff … and I was there. Petty outdueled Cale Yarborough for first place (did anyone bother to inspect Petty’s engine after the race?) in what remains NASCAR’s most memorable victory. Everybody went home happy, too. Fans loved seeing Petty win for what would be the last time. NASCAR scored a huge PR day with Petty’s victory and Reagan’s visit. Yarborough should have been happy, too. At least he and other drivers enjoyed a picnic with Reagan and Tammy Wynette concert after the race. Reagan was obviously happy. He kissed Tammy smack dab on the lips after she sang “Stand by Your Man.” The annual 400 will be run this Saturday – at night and on television as it has been for some time now. I won’t be there. My childhood home on Citrus Avenue belongs to someone else now, my father has since passed and my Daytona roots are now planted in east Alabama. I miss those Fourth of Julys. I miss the knots in my stomach leading up to the green flag, those old, rickety grandstands, watching fireworks over the Halifax River that night and the smell of smoked pork and chicken rising from my father’s grill. Come to think of it, I miss my father most. Joe McAdory is Communications Editor at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business.