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SPORTS, PAGE 10 BRHS coach announces retirement
County releases new emergency alert app By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
Citizens of Tallapoosa County now have another way to get weather alerts – Tallapoosa Alert. Tallapoosa County EMA Director Jason Moran announced the system Monday. “Tallapoosa County EMA is introducing “Tallapoosa Alert,” a mass notification system to help keep residents safe and informed with reliable notifications during emergencies and
other events,” Moran said. “Tallapoosa Alert will automatically send out weather alerts from the National Weather Service to each land line in the county warranted by the alert.” Moran said setting it up has taken a little while but it will be something that everyone can use. And best of all, it is free to the public and requires little of the county. “It has been a little over a year in the making,” Moran said. “It is very reliable with today’s technology. There is no equipment See EMERGENCY • Page 3
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Talllapoosa County EMA Director Jason Moran works with Commissioner John McKelvey on setting up his phone for a new system for delivering alerts to citizens.
Turner sworn in as new police chief
Quail Fry kicks off ‘Team United’ campaign By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
By MITCH SNEED Editor
Are you looking for a way to help the United Way and try something a little different for dinner? The United Way of the Lake Martin Area is hosting a quail fry Saturday to kickoff the 2018 campaign season at The Stables at Russell Crossroads and while it is relatively new to the United Way, it is not new to the community. “This is the second annual United Way Quail Fry,” United Way of the Lake Martin Area’s Courtney Layfield said. “The Red Cross did if for a bunch of years and we got permission from their board to take it over when they stopped doing it.” Last year at L.D Benton’s farm the group was able to raise about $12,000 and hope the change in venue will be as successful if not more. “It is a new venue and we hope it will attract some new people,” Layfield said. “At LD’s farm last year, we had a lot of his friends come out and we hope they will come with us to the Stables. Hopefully we will also draw some people from Willow Point and that area to come out and See QUAIL • Page 3
Kenneth Boone / The Outlook
Reenactors who played soldiers and Native Americans were on hand at Horseshoe Bend National Military Park Saturday to commemorate the 203rd anniversary of the Battle of Horseshoe Bend.
BLAST FROM THE PAST Anniversary commemoration offers look into past and future By MITCH SNEED Editor
Horseshoe Bend National Military Park marked the anniversary of a battle that drastically changed the landscape of an entire region Saturday. The park welcomed the public to the park for a history lesson on the Battle of Horseshoe Bend and a look into the future of the park.
Park Superintendent Barbara Tagger, with the help of Auburn University History Professor Dr. Keith Hebert and National Park Service Southeastern Regional Director Stan Austin, unveiled plans for an expansive renovation for the park’s museum and exhibit center. “This project will give us the ability to add more exhibits, bring in traveling exhibits and allow us to expand our educational See HORSESHOE • Page 9
Family, friends, elected officials, judges and fellow officers packed the upstairs courtroom at the Alexander City Police Department Monday evening to see one of their own sworn in as the chief of police. Municipal Court Judge Randy Haynes administered the oath of office to Jerry W. “Jay” Turner Monday night before 114 people who were on hand to celebrate his ascension to the department’s top spot. When the oath was complete, Turner received a standing ovation and spent time shaking hands and taking pictures with his family and supporters. Alexander City Mayor Jim Nabors thanked Turner for his service and wished him well. “I’m proud to call you Alexander City’s Police Chief and proud to call you my friend,” Nabors said. Council President Tommy Spraggins harkened back to See CHIEF • Page 3
Sparks ends on a high note to win Kowaliga Idol 9 By MITCH SNEED Editor
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Auburn University senior Adam Sparks, 23, was the winner of Kowaliga Idol 9. The finals took place Friday night at the world famous Rodeo Club in Dadeville.
Today’s
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Adam Sparks hadn’t been in a singing competion since he was in high school, much less win one. But all that changed Friday night. Sparks, a fifth-year senior at Auburn University, survived multiple rounds of eliminations and picked the perfect time to shine to win Kowaliga Country’s Kowaliga Idol 9 Friday night at the World Famous Rodeo Club in Dadeville. “When this all started I never thought I’d win it,” Sparks said. “But when I got into the final 12, I thought I’d give the judges something different to think about and I think that’s what did it.” Sparks sang Frank Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight,” and followed that up with a spot-on rendition
of Aerosmith’s “Dream On.” Sparks matched Steven Tyler trademark high note, something he had never attempted before. “I’ve sung the song before, but I never attempted to hit that note,” Sparks said. “It was just one of those things where in the heat of the moment I went for it and I think that’s what won it.” Sparks picked up a prize package worth about $7,000. The prized included $975 in cash and Sparks said he has already put that to use. “I’m a photographer with the Auburn Plainsman, and I’ve had my eye on a lens that will help me when I shoot sports,” Sparks said. “So that’s where that is going.” The package also included time in a recording studio, something that Sparks said he has never done but is excited about taking in that experi-
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ence. Sparks’ win capped an eight-week journey that included hundreds of contestants who auditioned at clubs all across the region. About 90 singers advanced to the elimination rounds and Friday night 24 were still alive on the final night. After each sang one song each, the field was trimmed to 12 to set up the two-song final round. Ed and Marge Shikoski were thrilled with the way the night went. More than 500 people were on hand for the finals. “Kowaliga Idol 9 was a great success,” Ed Shikoski said. “The talent was outstanding. Everybody came together and put together a great show. The community came out and supported this great show. Marge and I are very humbled to host this event, and excited about plans in the works.”
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Adoptive families celebrate with special day each year
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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 Cathy Higgins Sports Editor, Ext. 228 cathy.higgins@alexcityoutlook.com
Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com Alethia Russell Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 alethia.russell@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Donna Jones Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 donna.jones@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Advertising Sales, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Advertising Sales, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@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.
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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.
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.
Obituaries Mrs. Elizabeth Walton
Mrs. Catherine McElrath Mrs. Catherine McElrath 63 of Goodwater, AL died Sunday, March 26, 2017 at Russell Medical Center, Alexander City, AL. Final arrangements entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Services
SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
The Outlook
Funeral service for Mrs. Elizabeth Walton 81 of Alexander City, AL; Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at Armour’s Memorial Chapel, Alexander City, AL. Burial, Armour’s Memorial Garden, Alexander City, AL. Final arrangements entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Services
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DEAR ABBY: As parents of an adopted child, we were concerned about when we would have “the conversation.” Then a neighbor told us about how they would celebrate “Gotcha Day” with their adopted daughter each year. Gotcha Day is a day to celebrate because it’s the day we became a family. We “adopted” their idea and have been doing something special on this day since before our child could even say the word “gotcha.” Early on, she had no idea what we were celebrating; she just knew it was a special day for us. Through the years, she was able to process exactly what it meant at her own pace, which relieved the need to ever have that dreaded conversation. Recently our daughter told us she loves this day more than her actual birthday! I thought I’d share this with other adoptive parents who worry about when the right
DEAR ABBY Advice
time might be to explain to their child that they were prayed for, wanted, loved and adopted. -- BLESSED PARENTS IN PENNSYLVANIA DEAR BLESSED PARENTS: I had never heard of anything like this, but I think it’s a great concept and certainly worth sharing with my readers. Thank you! DEAR ABBY: After 32 years of marriage, my wife went out and got a tattoo on her shoulder. It’s about 8 inches by 6 inches (quite large), and she did it without any advance discussion with me, which has left me sort of shocked. Her position is that it’s her body and she’ll
Ms. Evelyn Fox Britton 1944 - 2017
do what she wants. This has driven a wedge between us, and I’m not sure if we can move forward. What is your advice? -- UNMARKED IN NEVADA DEAR UNMARKED: To me, what’s important is not that your wife got the tattoo without discussing it with you, but her motive for doing it in secret. My advice is to do nothing in haste or in anger. Try to get her to explain to you what the tattoo symbolizes to her, because it may be important. After that, whether you decide to move forward -- or move out -- is something only you can decide. DEAR ABBY: My co-worker tried to commit suicide last year. She took eight months off after that. Now we are approaching the one-year anniversary. We work for a small, familyowned business. Everyone knows she tried to kill herself, but no one knows why. She
has reduced her hours and her stress level, at least at work. I have picked up most of her duties, and I’m quick to lend a hand. She’s a lot older than I am, and I’m not comfortable lending an ear. How do we handle this situation? Do we act like it’s just like any other normal day? -UNCOMFORTABLE AT WORK DEAR UNCOMFORTABLE: If your co-worker wanted to disclose her reason(s) for trying to kill herself, you would already know what drove her. Because a suicide attempt is nothing to celebrate, be sensitive and don’t draw attention to it unless she brings it up. 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.
Traveling with fire
Graveside Service for Ms. Mary Evelyn Britton, 72, of Alexander City, will be Thursday, March 30, 2017 at 11:30 am at the Hillview Memorial Park. Rev. Wayne Cowhick will officiate. The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 30, 2017 from 9:30 am to 11:00 am at Radney Funeral Home. Ms. Britton passed away on Monday, March 27, 2017 at Russell Medical. She was born on November 17, 1944 in Tallapoosa County, Alabama to John Harold Fox and Laura Jewel Fox. She was a member of Alexander City Methodist Church. Her family owned Fox General Merchandise in Hackneyville for many years. She graduated from Hackneyville High School and earned a B.S. degree from Jacksonville State University and a Masters degree from Auburn University and Auburn University Montgomery. She did post graduate work at Georgia State University and was a certified Reading Recovery Teacher. Ms. Britton served as the Reading Recovery Teacher at Dawson Elementary School in Columbus, GA after teaching fourth grade at Stephens School in Alexander City. She also had been employed with the Department of Defense Children’s Schools at Fort Benning, GA. She received many awards for being an outstanding educator. She enjoyed fishing and attending yard sales and had a great sense of humor and loved a good joke or trick. Ms. Britton was also a talented pianist. She is survived by her brother, Roger Fox of West Palm Beach, FL; sisters-in-law, Sue Fox of Alexander City and Pat Fox of Wetumpka; nephews, Harold Fox, Jr. (Delia), Hoyt Wayne Fox, and Jerry Flynn Fox; nieces, Laurie Fox Barrett (Tom) and Lana Fox; special friends, Jeanette Houts (Eugene) and Sally M. Chapman; and several cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Donald Fox and John "Pee Wee" Fox. The family will accept flowers or memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one's choice. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
First responders from the Alexander City Police Department and the Alexander City Fire Department responded to reports from other motorists that a dump truck was traveling along Highway 22 and the onto U.S. Highway 280 with flames and heavy smoke coming from underneath. When officials found the vehicle, the truck driver was trying to put out the blaze with a fire extinguisher. It wasn’t until firefighters coated an area near the middle inside tire with foam that the fire finally went out. No one was injured in the fire, but traffic on 280 was down to one lane for almost an hour and the truck remained on the side of the road into the night Monday.
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Tuesday, March 28, 2017
The Outlook
Chief
continued from page 1
Turner’s interview and how he spoke of his love of “servitude.” “He talked about servitude and what an honor it was to serve the people of this community,” Spraggins said. “That’s the kind of person that you want in a leader. I’m proud to say we have someone like Jay as our police chief. Tallapoosa County Sheriff Jimmy Abbett was on hand to congratulate Turner as well. “Jay is the kind of person you love to see succeed,” Abbett said. “He works hard and has a passion for helping others. He’s worked his way up and has shined in every position he has been put in. I know he will do a great job.” Turner, 49, joined the police department in 1992. He served six years in patrol, before being assigned to the Tallapoosa County Narcotics Task Force in 1998. In 2004, he became the commander in charge of the Narcotics Task Force. He became the sergeant in charge of detectives and the burglary task force in 2010 and was
promoted to lieutenant in 2011 and added responsibility of being commander of detectives, criminal investigations and the domestic violence task force as well. In 2013, Willie G. Robinson who was the police chief at the time promoted Turner to deputy chief. The council appointed Turner interim chief on Jan. 11 after they opted not to reappoint Robinson to the chief’s position. On Monday March 20, the council voted unanimously to appoint Turner chief. Turner along with Birmingham Deputy Police Chief Allen Hatcher were the final two candidates and the full council interviewed both. “I’m so thankful that the mayor and council trusted me with this responsibility and I look forward to serving the people of Alexander City,” Turner said. “You are only as good as the people you have around you and I am blessed to have some great ones in this department serving with me.” Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Emergency already programmed into the system. Moran explained that many with just landlines are those who do not have access to smartphones or the internet. “The people that don’t have a smart phone or internet, can’t hear a siren going off and doesn’t have a weather radio, we wanted to be able to get those people the information,” Moran said. “A lot of these are our elderly and don’t communicate with technology. I wanted these people to be able to get these notices as well. They are going to get a call no matter what time it is.” Moran says do not worry about it calling for everything for this group. “It is set to call those numbers only in case of a thunderstorm warning or a tornado warning,” Moran said. Moran explained that users going to the county’s website can set up their own account and manage what alerts they get and how they get them. He also explained that the only information required is your address. “It does not require any personal information,”
Quail
large...
to bake cookies or something like that, we are taking donations.” There are some guidelines for donating baked goods. The United Way asks you to label the item with a description and who made it and securely wrap, bag or box the times so that they can be seen. Drop off will be Friday, March 31 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the United Way office on Main Street. For those looking for tickets, cost is $30 each and they are available at the United Way office or from board members. The organization is just finishing its 2017 campaign. “We never stop,” Layfield said. “This kicks off our next cycle.”
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Moran said. “It does not require any credit card information.” To sign up to receive alerts from the system, go to www.tallaco.com, click the departments tab and select EMA. From there click on Tallapoosa Alert. Moran said he is available to help people sign up. “Anybody that has questions or if there is a group of people that I can speak to, explain it further, I will be more than happy to do it,” Moran said. County commissioners and Moran believe the system will be valuable to those who have property in Tallapoosa County. “It lets us notify just a few when needed up to county wide,” Commissioner John McKelvey said. “I don’t think we know just how big of an impact this will be,” Commissioner T.C. Coley said. “It is a game changer, something we can control locally.” “I encourage Tallapoosa County residents to sign up for it because you get local information when you need it,” Moran said. “I hope that all of our community will support it and sign up as soon as possible.”
continued from page 1
support the United Way.” The menu is simple and stated in the name of the event but it also offers other things for the $30 ticket. “There is going to be fried quail with the sides,” Layfield said. “But we are also going to have a low country boil and gumbo.” But something is missing from that menu and the United Way is hoping the community will help there. “This meal does not include dessert,” Layfield said. “People will be able to buy their dessert at the baked goods auction and baked goods sale. “It will all be homemade baked good items. Last year Fred George made pound cakes. We have a lot of great bakers in the area that are going to be donating stuff. If anyone wants
been
Jay Turner stands as his wife Lori pins the badge on his uniform after being sworn in as Alexander City’s Chief of Police Monday evening.
continued from page 1
to maintain. So from my cellphone or anywhere I can get the internet, I can access it. Anything as far as thunderstorm and tornado warning from the National Weather Service is automatic and I don’t have to touch it.” Moran explained that the alerts come via phone call, text or email to addresses and numbers when someone sets up their user account. “Those signing up and creating their own accounts can get an array of things,” Moran said. “You can go in and receive the messages about 10 different ways, text messages to multiple phones, emails to multiple addresses and it will call your home phone.” The system will keep trying until you acknowledge the alerts the user programs in. “You must acknowledge the alert,” Moran said. “By pressing one, texting back “yes” or clicking the button in the email. If not, Tallapoosa Alert will continue to call you until a response is received back for the next four hours.” The county’s more than 12,000 landline numbers are
Many a small thing has
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MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213
editor@alexcityoutlook.com
EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
Outlook The
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Our
Opinion
Tailgate sittin’ brings back lots of memories
We’d like to S hear from you!
A
re you looking for a way to voice you opinion on the repeal or repair of ObamaCare? Are you tired of only being able to air you opinion with friends? Why not try the public? The Outlook is looking for well thought out letters of opinion. It does not matter if anyone agrees with you. Get involved and make your opinion on issues known. We will even let you do that through the newspaper. What do you think about the way our city government is being run? How about the turnout of community members to any local events? Or how about the idea of eliminating marriage licenses, passing legislation to make hunting over bait legal or Bentley’s prison reform plan? Do you have any praise or concerns regarding our country’s leadership or current administration? Do you have thoughts on how Tallapoosa County can attract more new businesses and industry that will provide jobs for our residents? Have you been on the receiving end of a good deed and would like to give credit where credit is due? Do you have a bone to pick with any of the stories in this newspaper? If you have something to say about any of these questions, then the answer is a letter to the editor or a guest column. This newspaper’s editorial page is an open forum for our community and we encourage you to write us and make your opinion known. It’s free. If you need help writing, our editors will be happy to help you craft a letter. Our rules are simple: no cussin’, no libel, no slander. Basically, if you’d say it around the dinner table with your grandmother, it’s probably acceptable as a letter to the editor. So let’s get the conversation started. What’s on your mind? Write us at editor@alexcityoutlook.com or Editor, The Alexander City Outlook, P.O. Box 999,
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Kay Ivey is the Lt. Governor of the state of Alabama. Ivey was elected Lt. Governor in 2010. The Office of the Lieutenant Governor is located in Suite 725 of the Alabama State House in Montgomery, Alabama.
Robert Bentley
Kay Ivey
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.
unday afternoon, I found myself sitting in the bed of Loretta, Lucy’s 1978 Ford pickup truck. While sitting in the bed was nice, it didn’t stir up a lot of memories. On the other hand, sitting on the tailgate and on the side certainly conjured up days gone by. When I was kid, we spent a lot of time in the backs of trucks, and it wasn’t exactly safe, either. It wasn’t cool to sit on the hump above the tire. We used to ride down the road while sitting on the tailgate, and I don’t mean just piddling along. We’re talking 35-45 MPH. Sometimes if we hit a bump, our feet would drag on the road. My cheap, thinsoled shoes, known as “pie crusts” to the local kids of my era, didn’t last too long. Even more dangerous than that was when we sat on the side of the truck while it was in motion. What were the grownups thinking? We survived, hence the good memories. It was just a different time. As toddlers, barely able to walk, we’d walk around inside the car as it was going 55 MPH down the interstate. My dad lived in Montgomery, and I remember the speed limit capping out at 55. We didn’t wear seatbelts. I was in the backseat most of the time. Sometimes I was lying underneath the back window. If my mama slammed on the brakes, I just rolled. My brother, who was sitting or standing in the
JODY FULLER Columnist
passenger seat, got the extended arm from her. It always seemed to have worked. She even passed down that mamareflex down to me. My dog gets it all the time. While sitting in the bed didn’t stimulate memories of yesteryear, it did create new ones, such as Lucy spraying me with sunscreen after pulling it directly from the cooler. I hadn’t hollered like that since the morning in 2004 when I woke up in Iraq with a mouse on my face. You see, that’s a memory. The radio in the truck is somewhat challenged, so I backed up my SUV, popped the tailgate, and tuned in to my favorite country music radio station, although it can sometimes be hard to find country music, even on country radio, but that’s a different story altogether. We fired up the grill and cooked a handful of Nathan’s hot dogs. Those are the best darn store-bought hot dogs anywhere. I like to cook them to where they are almost burned. When topped with mustard, kraut, cheese, Wickles Pickles relish, and fresh onions from George’s Farmers Market, well, it
might just be the best darn hot dog, period. Lucy picked at me for washing my plate. It wasn’t just any plate; it was a fancy coated paper plate. I barely got it dirty, and I didn’t even lick it. I just made my hot dog carefully. I wanted all the toppings in my belly. Lucy got real hot and decided to take a dip in the pool. No, we don’t have a fancy salt water pool. We don’t have a traditional rectangular pool, and we don’t even have one of those highdollar above-the-ground pools. Nope, not us. We have a $9 kiddie pool from Walmart. “You can’t hide class,” my uncle always says. We like it, and so do the dogs. Next week, we’ll be jumping through a sprinkler. Talk about memories. Most of the afternoon was spent on or around Loretta’s tailgate. It was nothing fancy. It was simple, sweet, silly, and so much fun. We thanked God for all the blessings in our lives, including our faith, family, friends, freedom, food, fancy coated paper plates, and this second chance at making lifelong memories.
Steve Marshall
Mark Tuggle (R) represents the 81st District covering Coosa, Chilton and Tallapoosa counties. He can be Mark Tuggle reached by phone at 256392-2006 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 Tom Whatley to the Alabama Senate on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334-242t7865. His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn.
Today’s
Quote
“I have not yet begun to fight.” – John Paul Jones
Today’s
Scripture
“My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me.” – Galations 2:20
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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 Robert Bentley represents the state of Alabama and its 67 counties. He was elected to office on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334242-7100. His office is located at the State Capitol at 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama.
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Bronson: I’m not a doctor, but have some experience Dear Editor, Below is my response to Dr. Sellers: Dang it Billy, you got me there! You are correct…the only medical expertise I have is from delivering my daughter
Trisha in an elevator that was hung up between floors. True story, and a long time ago, but the memory still gives me the shakes. Oh wait! I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express once.
Does that count? Nah, I didn’t think so. Have a nice day. Really.” Dick Bronson Lake Martin
Lawmakers shouldn’t squander chance to repeal Obamacare Dear Editor, I absolutely cannot understand how the Republicans in Congress could not come to an agreement on fixing Obamacare , the worst piece of legislation in U.S. history. Finding a solution now would be more practical that waiting until the health care law totally crashes and burns. After reading the GAO report and researching the solvency of the law my prediction is within a year Obamacare will implode. At that time fixing Obamacare
will be an emergency and there won’t be time to do the right thing for the citizens this heinous piece of legislation impacts. Currently Blue Cross, Aetna, United and Humana have pulled out of Obamacare rendering this law without means of financial support. So who do you think is paying the bills? Well its damn sure not the entitlement class who use and take advantage of government subsidized insurance without producing anything. The everyday working
man who pays taxes and purchases health insurance with deductibles so high they will never be able to use what they pay for are the people who are keeping this horrible law solvent. Our lawmakers need to understand the implications of squandering this opportunity to help working Americans. The next election cycle isn’t that far off. Thank you for your time. Woody Baird De Opresso Liber Alexander City
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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The Outlook
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Lake Martin Automotive & Truck Center Buy Here, Pay Here! Payments Start at $199 Mo.
2888 Dadeville Road•Alexander City, AL (256) 212-1300
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Tuesday, March 28, 2017
The Outlook
CommunityCalendar Need Insurance?
Today is
March 28, 2017
Submit calendar items:
Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/.
Today’s Birthdays
Tynita Doss, Miriam Dunlap, Melody Robertson, Ressie Toland, Phil Hart, Amari Armour, Maddox Lee Yates and Pat Baker are celebrating their birthday.
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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
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Barbara Willis was honored by The Seekers Women’s Bible Study of Alexander City for her success in living out her faith and inspiring others to do the same. The award was the “Certificate of Christian Sojourn”. Barbara Willis, a member of Flint Hill Methodist Church, has been a volunteer for more than 20 years with Volunteer Connection. She prepares free income tax assistance for those who need help. She volunteers with the Willow Point Volunteer Fire Department, Russell Medical Auxiliary and the RMC gift shop. She is on the official board of the Adult Learning Center at Central Alabama Community College and also has provided transportation for the elderly. Pictured left to right are Susan Oakes from Volunteer Connections, Barbara Willis and Rev. Bruce McClendon of First Presbyterian Church.
Now – April 15
FREE TAX ASSISTANCE: Beginning Jan. 30, free tax and electronic tax filing assistance at Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama, Inc., 5030 Hwy 280, Alex City, AL IRS certified volunteers will provide the free tax assistance and electronically file federal and state income tax forms. The free tax sites are designed to assist seniors 60+ (with no income limit), taxpayers under age 60 with incomes less than $54,000, and disabled taxpayers. Taxpayers will be assisted in the order they are registered. Please do not bring people to the site not involved in the filing of your taxes due to the limited space. Waiting may be necessary. Volunteers will provide free tax assistance and electronically file federal and state income tax forms at Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama, Inc. beginning Jan. 25. Please arrive and register for assistance at least one hour before closing time. March – Mondays and Tuesdays – 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Thursdays – 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. April 1 to April 15 - Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays --- 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Information You Must Bring To The Tax Site: The following information is required by the IRS: last year’s tax return; photo ID-driver’s license-for taxpayer and spouse; social security cards for taxpayers and dependants; W-2’s; and 1099’s B, R, and SSA 1099. If you have health insurance through the government marketplace, bring your 1095-A. ALL employed taxpayers should bring a copy of their year-end pay stub. In regards to the itemized deduction list, you should bring all the documentation that applies to you. Even if you do not itemize on your Federal taxes you may be able to do so on your State return. For more info call (256) 234-0347.
March 29
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
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
ESTATE PLANNING WORKSHOP: There will be a free estate planning and asset protection workshop at the Archibald Senior Center Wednesday, March 29. Education workshop presented by local attorney Raley Wiggins. Topics include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, living wills, longterm care, Medicaid qualification, and probate administration. Also, how to protect your assets from: divorce, remarriage, creditors, bankruptcy, and nursing homes. Registration is required. Call (334) 625-6774 or online at www.redoaklegalpc.com. If you can’t attend this month, the scheduled dates for 2017 are: April 26, May 31, June 28, July 26, Aug. 30, Sept. 27, Oct. 25, and Nov. 29.
March 31
GOLF TOURNAMENT: The Benjamin Russell High School FFA is hosting a golf tournament March 31 at LakeWinds Golf Course starting at 8 a.m. For more information contact FRHS FFA at 256-677-1209 or jowilliams@ acs12.net.
March 31 - April 2
SEUSSICAL: The Dadeville High School Drama Program is presenting “Seussical” March 31 at 7 p.m., April 1 at 7 p.m. and April 2 at 2 p.m. at the Dadeville High School Auditorium.
April 1
QUAIL FRY: The Second Annual United Way Quail Fry is Saturday, April at The Stables at Russell Crossroads. The event will be the first fundraiser for the 2018 Campaign Season the $30 per person ticket includes the quail fry, a low country shrimp boil, shrimp gumbo and drinks. Baked goods will also be sold and auctioned as part of the event with all proceeds going to the Lake Martin Area United Way. Tickets are available at the United Way office. SPRING GALA: The Born Into Heaven Foundation will be hosting its annual spring gala April 1 from5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Children’s Harbour. Tickets are $40 for adults.
April 2
MEN AND WOMEN DAY: New Harmony Missionary Baptist Church in Camp Hill is celebrating Men and Women Day April 2 at 2 p.m. Guest minister will be Rev. Emerson Ware of Great Bethel Missionary Baptist Church. PASTOR ANNIVERSARY: Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is honoring Rev. and Sister Rossevelt Gregory for 27 years of service April 2 at 2 p.m. The guest pastor will be Rev. Eddi J. Jennings, pastor of the New Elam Missionary Baptist Church on Highway 9 in Kellyton. Everyone is invited. GOSPEL CONCERT: Jubilee Christian Fellowship at 55 Red Eagle Road in Montgomery is hosting The Villines Trio from Compton, Arkansas Sunday, April 2 at 11 a.m.
April 4
USHER MEETING: The Early Rose District usher meeting will be Tuesday, April 4 at 5 p.m. at the Early Rose District Center.
April 4-6
SPRING REVIVAL: Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church Baptist Church on Stillwaters Drive in Dadeville is hosting spring revival services April 4-6 at 7 p.m. nightly. Guest ministers are Rev. Eddie Marbury, Rev. Leon Henderson and Rev. Jason Whetstone. Rev. Jimmy Thomas is pastor of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church.
April 5
STORY TELLING: Dolores Hydock will be at Red Ridge Methodist Church April 5 at 12 p.m. The program will be “Close Encounters of the Storytelling Kind.” MONTHLY LUNCHEON: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have their monthly luncheon on Wednesday April 5, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Please bring a covered dish and a small donation.
April 6
SENIORS ALIVE: The Tallapoosa County Baptist Association is hosting a Seniors Alive, a senior adult revival, April 6 at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Dadeville with lunch at noon. Dr. Gerald Hallmark will be the speaker, Mack Daugherty is the worship leader and musician and Ronnie Betts will have special music.
April 6-7 13-14
PLAY: Tickets for the spring production of Alabama’s Official Folk Life Play, “Come Home, It’s Suppertime” at the We Piddle Around Theater in Brundidge are on sale. Play
dates are April 6, 7 and 8 and 13 and 14. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 and include the preshow, a full country supper with dessert and the award-winning, two-act play. For tickets call 334-344-9427 or 334-6855524 or 670-6302.
April 7
MASTER GARDENERS PLANT SALE: Tallapoosa County Master Gardeners annual plant sale will be April 7 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the building across from the First Baptist Church. We will have Native Azaleas, bedding plants, ferns and day lilies and more.
April 8
EASTER EGG HUNT: The Wind Creek Easter Egg Hunt will be April 8 at 10 a.m. There will be areas for ages two and under, two to four years, five to eight years and nine to 12 years. Prizes will be awarded for finding the three golden eggs in each group. The Easter Bunny will be available for photographs. There will be plenty of prizes, candy and fun. Park entrance fees apply. In the event of a hard rain, this event will be cancelled. FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK SALE: A book sale will be hosted by the Friends of the Dadeville Public Library April 8 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the lower level of the Dadeville Library. Hardbacks are $1, paperbacks are $.50 and $5 for a bag of books. EASTER EGG HUNT: Mt. Zion Baptist Church is hosting its annual Easter Egg Hunt April 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for pre-k and up. EASTER EGG HUNT: Wayside Baptist Church will hosting its annual Easter Egg Hunt April 8 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. There will be a magic show, egg hunt and food. Everyone is invited. EASTER EGG HUNT: The annual Mt. Zion Community East er Egg Hunt for toddlers and up will be April 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come join the fun and food.
•Alexander City Outlook •Dadeville Record •Wetumpka Herald •Eclectic Observer •Tallassee Tribune
256.234.4281
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
Small Space Advertising Works.
For Consistent Advertising
at Low Rates...
call the Advertising Department
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April 9
GUEST PREACHER: Red Ridge is hosting a guest pastor Sunday, April 9 at 9:30 a.m. Rev. Vu Nguyen, a native of south Vietnam who served with American forces during the Vietnam War will deliver a message. Nguyen was imprisoned by the North Vietnamese following the war and after being released made his way to Atlanta. After learning English and finishing college, he graduated from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. EASTER EGG HUNT: Sixth Street Baptist Church is hosting a Glow in the Dark Easter Egg Hunt Sunday, April 9 at 7 p.m. at Byers Field. Bring an Easter basket. For more information call 256-234-2408 or email ayoungkidmin@gmail.com
Small Space Advertising Works.
April 10-12
YOUTH REVIVAL: Hatchett Springs Baptist Church is hosting a youth revival April 10-12 at 7 p.m. nightly. Speaking will be Minister Zavious Kidd, Minister Jonathan McKinney and Prophet Issac Grove Jr.
April 14-16
CRUCIFIXION REENACTMENT: Mt. Zion Baptist Church is creating the Crucifixion of Christ reenactment from 12 p.m to 6 p.m. April 14 is the “Crucifixion,” April 15 is the “tomb” and April 16 “He is Risen.”
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Tuesday, March 28, 2017
The Outlook
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Tuesday, March 28, 2017
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Kenneth Boone / The Outlook
Horseshoe programs,” Tagger told the more than 250 gathered Saturday. “It will give us the ability to better tell the story of Horseshoe Bend and the historical significance of what happened here 203 years ago.” Austin, who has spent time at parks including Yosemite and Rocky Mountain National Park among others, said he was impressed with what he saw at Horseshoe Bend in his first visit. “It’s amazing when you walk the grounds among the rolling hills and down to the river,” Austin said. “You can almost visualize what took place here more than two centuries ago. It’s great to see so many of you here, particularly so many young people. That’s what the park service is all about – many generations working together to protect and preserve the history that exists here at Horseshoe Bend Military Park as well as other national parks across the country.” A perfect example of the concept that Austin referred to was Woodland’s William Robinson and his great-grandson, 4-year-old Brantley Cole Petty. The two along with several other family members were on hand for the commemoration and Robinson said it was important to introduce young folks to the history that is all around them. “I brought my kids here years ago and to see the places where these historical things took place is so much more impressive than reading about it in a history book,”
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Robinson said. “He’s just 4 years old, but to see how things happened and how people lived back then, that will stick with him. “They even have a list of all the names of those who were involved in that battle. I have taken that and researched it and it’s amazing the stories of the people who fought here. The thing about it is that many people don’t even know this is here. I hope days like today helps bring more people out and get them interested in history.” Herbert recapped the battle and talked about that event led to a domino-effect that helped change the Alabama landscape forever. Visitors were able to take part in education and interactive events like cannon firing demonstrations, learning about muskets and rifles used at the time, play a game of Creek Indian Stick Ball or see how belts were dried and used. Lessons on music, cooking, weaving were presented and there was a station manned by Opelika’s Pete Dunaway on how the Poarch Creek hunted and fished. “Kids are amazed to see how primitive the things that were used to hunt were back then,” Dunaway said. “A spear, or a crude long bow and even the guns that they did have were nothing like what we have today. No, there weren’t any four-wheelers or shooting houses or sights on the bows. But a Poarch hunter would kill 200 deer in a year. They did it by using their skills.”
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Top, reenactors do a live cannon firing demonstration for visitors to Horseshoe Bend National Military Park Saturday. Children and adults alike took part in Native American stick ball game and Park Superintendent Barbara Tagger unveiled plans for a new museum and exhibit hall at the park.
CATHY HIGGINS SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
sports@alexcityoutlook.com
Page 10
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
www.alexcityoutlook.com
LUKE ROBINSON Columnist
The action is about to get good on the hardwood
S
EC! SEC! SEC! It’s been awhile since you heard this chant in March, right? Unless you were at early spring scrimmage or something at least. Well I am here to tell you, “Get used to it.” If you think the Southeastern Conference made noise in the 2017 NCAA Tournament, just wait until next year! After a pretty mediocre overall regular season, the SEC shocked the basketball world by having three teams in the Elite Eight and (ummmm…nearly) two in the Final Four. I believe this performance, along with some incredible conference-wide recruiting, is a harbinger of huge things for the league next year. Kentucky will lead the way again (as they always do). The Wildcats will bring back some talent plus they easily have the best signing class in the country hauling in six of the top 35 players in the United States. But we know Kentucky will be good. The issue over the last five to six years has been that no one else has pulled their weight. That issue will be corrected in 2018 as several other SEC teams will see their rosters improve. In fact, 11 of the 14 SEC teams are ranked in the top 50 of signing classes in the country by 247 Sports. The three teams that are unranked in that top 50 either have proven they have a solid system (South Carolina) nice talent returning (Tennessee) or made a much needed coaching change (LSU). Thirteen of the country’s best 45 players have signed with seven different SEC schools! Even the team ranked 49th as a team (Missouri) is getting the second best player in the country in five star Michael Porter Jr. More importantly, Alabama and Auburn are poised to make the biggest leaps toward national attention. The Tide inked the fourth best class in the country headlined by two five stars in the dynamic Collin Sexton and AHSAA legend John Petty. These newcomers will surely aid a roster loaded with experience. Coach Avery Johnson will also have the services of 6’10” Ohio State transfer Daniel Giddens after he sat out due to transfer rules. Meanwhile, Auburn returns the majority of their contributors from last season and the youngsters will certainly have benefited from being thrust in the fire of 2016-17. The Tigers also signed two players rated in the top 60 in the country as well. So get your tickets early for 2018’s NCAA Tournament. The SECheavy Elite Eight of last weekend is only a taste of how good things are about to get! Luke Robinson is a local resident, a regular sports columnist for The Outlook and the president of the Lake Martin Bama Club.
Hines announces retirement
By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor
While the end of May marks the close of the school year at Benjamin Russell, it also signals the end of an era in the Wildcats athletic program as head varsity basketball coach Jeff Hines heads into retirement on June 1. At 52, Hines knows he hasn’t reached the traditional retirement age. However, he feels now is the right time to close his seven-year chapter on coaching and teaching physical education at Ben Russell. “I’ve lost my fire a little bit,” he said. “And I wasn’t able to take the team to the championships like they needed.” Hines has been teaching and coaching for 23 years. “I started at Prattville High in 1994,” he said. There he served as assistant basketball coach for five years before coming to Tallapoosa County as head coach at Dadeville. Hines’ coaching career has also included stops at Holtville and Wallace Community College Selma. While having a career that’s boasted almost 200 wins, Hines has found it to be one that has taken him away from his family more often than he would like. “There’s going to be a place in heaven next to Jesus for every coach’s wife,” Hines said. “Kim has been a rock through this whole journey.” Fortunately, Hines has been able to have both of his daughters, 22-year-old K.K., and 18-year-old Darby, attending school at while he coached at Benjamin Russell. “I’m very blessed,” he said. They’ve also enjoyed being part of Hines’ legacy at Benjamin Russell by attending the Wildcats games in support of
Cathy Higgins / The Outlook
Benjamin Russell varsity basketball head coach Jeff Hines (seated, left), is joined by his wife Kim (seated, right) and daughters Darby (top left) and K.K. in the high school gym as he announces plans to retire in June.
their loved one. “I think we’re going to miss it more than he does,” Kim said. K.K. agreed. “We don’t think he should retire,” she said. Even if his family doesn’t agree with his decision, they are his main motivation for choosing to retire at this time. “This is all for them,” he said as his wife and daughters fought back tears. As Hines considers his coaching legacy, wins on the court take a back seat to the opportunities he has had to impact the lives of those he taught and
coached. “I want to win games as much as I can but those are the victories,” he said. Those victories have included the forging of deeply-rooted bonds with numerous young athletes and fellow coaches over the years. “They’ve been brothers and sisters to Darby and K.K.,” Hines said. “And that’s not just here. It’s everywhere I’ve coached in.” Although Hines is bidding farewell to teaching and coaching, plans for his next steps have yet to be made. “I can honestly say I don’t
know what I’m going to do,” he said. But his family does have some ideas of their own. “He’s going to read some for K.K.’s third-grade class in Opelika,” Darby said. Hines also plans to stay in the Alexander City area while Kim continues working with a consulting firm in Montgomery. “Darby will be going to school at Auburn to study nursing too,” Hines said. Hines added that retiring doesn’t necessarily mean that he won’t ever coach or teach again. “Never say never,” he said.
Tucker takes 1st at Jaguar Invitational By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor
Cathy Higgins / The Outlook
Benjamin Russell varsity baseball freshman Brett Pitts delivers a pitch in the first inning of the Wildcats’ game against John Carroll Catholic on opening day of the Lake Martin Classic Baseball Tournament on Monday.
Wildcats defeat Cavaliers 13-3 Benjamin Russell varsity baseball team gets the win on opening day of Lake Martin Classic By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor
Benjamin Russell started the Lake Martin Classic baseball tournament off on a high note Monday as the Wildcats defeated John Carroll Catholic 13-3. Ben Russell varsity came out strong by scoring two runs in the first inning. The Wildcats followed that up with three more runs in the second inning and remained consistent by adding two runs each in the third, fourth, fifth and sixth. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers only managed three runs in the fourth. The Wildcats’ biggest play at the plate came in the fifth inning, courtesy of an RBI triple from Benjamin Russell senior Timmy Lawson, who sent junior Bradley Stewart home from first
base. “I just saw the ball and I hit it,” Lawson said. “He just threw the ball over the plate and I gave it a good ride.” Lawson and Stewart both led at the plate with two RBIs each. Benjamin Russell freshman Brett Pitts earned the win for the Wildcats. In the first three innings on the pitcher’s mound, he shut out the Cavaliers, struck three out and only allowed two hits. “It went well because I had the team backing me up, making plays,” he said. “I was just trying to throw strikes and get people out.” Wildcats head coach Richy Brooks was pleased with what he saw on the field Monday. “We played well on defense and got some good pitching,” he said.
In addition to Pitts, freshman Ryan Willis and sophomore William Beckett took to the mound Monday. “They all did a good job,” Brooks said. “We’re proud of them. They went out and competed and did a good job.” Monday’s win brings the Wildcats’ season record to 15-8. The triumph comes on the heels of Benjamin Russell’s much-needed home-field sweep Saturday when the Wildcats defeated Montgomery Catholic and Etowah by scores of 7-4 in each contest. “We kind of scuffled a bit last week and didn’t play our best baseball,” Brooks said. “But we had a good day Saturday and hopefully carried it over today.” Benjamin Russell continues in the Lake Martin Classic today by hosting Handley at 12:15 p.m. and Sardis at 7 p.m. In Wednesday’s installment, the Wildcats host Gardendale at 4:45 p.m.
Dadeville junior Quay Tucker took first in two events at the Jaguar Invitational varsity track and field meet at Northridge in Tuscaloosa Saturday as he took first place in the 100 M hurdles with a 15.13 result and 100 M dash with 11.1. Additional Tigers competed in the event with senior Antwoine Gunn, seventhgrader Micah Stowe, senior Nadarrius Fallin and junior Jerry Pulliam finishing the 4X800 boys relay with a time of 9:41. In the boys 100M dash, freshman Josh Taylor finished with 13.71 while seventh-grader Aaron Pearson and sophomore Ladarrius Moore finished in 12.4. In the boys 1600M, Fallin finished in 5:16, Pulliam finished in 6:13, Stowe ran in a time of 6:27 and sophomore C.W. Spraggins finished with a time of 6:33. In the boys 100M hurdles, seventh-grader Christian Nelson finished in 24.08 and Taylor finished in 19.77, In the girls 100M hurdles, Dadeville sophomore Amber Spraggins finished in 15.13 and freshman Skye Foster finished in 21.6. Freshman Jailee Kirkland completed the girls 100M dash in 15.9. While the second half of the invitational was rained out, Dadeville head coach Chris Hand was happy with how his team performed Saturday. “We did a great job with the events that we competed in,” he said. “Our times were the best that we have had all season.” The Dadeville varsity boys and girls outdoor track and field team next heads to Beauregard Thursday for the Beauregard Speed Meet.