LOCAL NEWS: CHAPMAN RESIDENTS GET COOL TREAT, PAGE 2.
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Local rail traffic to drop drastically Daily train traffic likely to end by week’s end By MITCH SNEED Editor
It appears that the amount of traffic on railway tracks through the heart of Tallapoosa County may decrease soon as one of Norfolk Southern’s regular runs may be put on hold. While company officials would not confirm or deny the news, The Outlook has learned that the Macon, Georgia to Birmingham run known as the Central of Georgia run will no longer pass through Tallapoosa County daily like it has for
decades. For towns like Alexander City, which flourished after the railroad made the area a stop on its line more than a century ago, the discontinuation of the Central of Georgia run will no regularly scheduled trains passing through the area. The A41, which serviced the pulpwood industry, no longer runs as loggers and chip mills have gone to other methods of transport. It is believed that the Scherer Coal Train that hauls coal to Georgia Power’s
Dale Burns / Special
Scenes like this train rolling over the Tallapoosa River on the Central of Georgia run will become less See RAILROAD • Page 3 frequent as the daily trip through Tallapoosa County on the way to Birmingham will be discontinued.
Honoring Fallen Heroes
Action against funeral home put on hold
Memorial service honors those who died in line of duty
Judge issues stay as Alabama Funeral Home appeals suspension By MITCH SNEED Editor
A Camp Hill funeral home will remain open while the appeal of an Alabama Board of Funeral Services ruling that called for a 30-day closure of the facility. Attorneys for Alabama Funeral Homes and Cremation Center, owner Carl Pritchard and funeral director Donald Phillips filed and appeal of the ruling, which was handed down last week. As a result, Circuit Court Judge Tom Young issued a stay, halting any action until the legal process is complete. Alabama Board of Funeral Services Charles Perine Executive Secretary said last week that the funeral home’s license would be suspended for 30 days, followed by three years on probation. The citations came from what Perine said were issues with “maintaining an identification system for cremating remains, failing to use combustible containers for cremating and demonstrating incompetence.” In addition to the license suspension, Perine said that the board also imposed fines. But now all that is on hold until
By MITCH SNEED Editor
About 120 residents and nearly four dozen members of law enforcement gathered outside the Alexander City Police Department Wednesday to remember those who gave their lives in the line of duty. The 21st Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service was hosted by the Alexander City Police Department and the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department and honored the memories of seven fallen officers from our area. “No matter how many times we do this, it always brings with it a lot of emotion,” Tallapoosa County Jimmy Abbett said. “We love what
Mitch Sneed/ The Outlook
Alexander City Police Chief Jay Turner, with the help of Bill Young prepares to set a wreath at the memorial to officers who lost their lives in the line of duty Wednesday. The Alexander City Police Department Honor Guard gave a 21-Gun Salute after the names of the seven Tallapoosa County officers who died in the line of duty were read.
See MEMORIAL • Page 5
See STAY • Page 3
Pearson students abuzz over session with local beekeepers By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Jim Pearson second-grader Rashad Varner studies honey bees as Tallapoosa County bee keeper Keith Robinson points things out.
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Students were buzzing at Jim Pearson Elementary School Wednesday morning – not because school was about to be out for summer, but were buzzing about learning about honey bees with the Tallapoosa River Beekeepers Association (TRBA). In fact, some students were answering the questions before TRBA president Keith Robinson could finish most questions before students had the answer. “You all are going to be teaching me about bees,” Robinson said. “You need to teach this class.”
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Excitement levels went even higher as students got a chance to look inside a hive and get nose to head with honeybees. Robinson explained how the bees humming sound that is heard is their wings moving to helps keep the hive cool and how it helps in other ways. “Honeybees like it to be very dry in the hive,” Robinson said. “The fanning also helps keep things dry.” Robinson and other beekeepers went over many misconceptions about honeybees, as well as the anatomy and habits of the different types of bees. “These insects like yellow jackets get See BEES • Page 3
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Mom weighs telling her son truth about dad’s ‘time away’
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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
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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, May 18, 2017
The Outlook
Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, Ext. 228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Tabby Edwards Retail Sales Manager, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Advertising Sales, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com
DEAR ABBY: My son, “Jimmy,” is 8. His father and I are divorced, and he is facing jail time. Jimmy sees him every other weekend. I’m planning on telling Jimmy the truth, although I’m sure his dad will want me to lie and say he needs to “work out of town” for a while, or something like that. I know it will be hard for my boy to deal with. I also wonder what he should tell other people. I worry that if he tells his friends the truth (and they tell their parents), Jimmy might not be invited over to play quite as often, or kids will tease him. But I feel like it’s sending a mixed message if I tell him it’s OK to lie about this particular issue. How should I handle this? -- TO TELL THE TRUTH DEAR TRUTH: Jimmy needs to know that his mother tells the truth. If you lie to him about this, or anything else for that matter, when he learns the truth -- as he will eventually
DEAR ABBY Advice
-- he will start to question the veracity of everything you have told him. This is a lot for an 8-year-old to deal with, I know, but I vote for keeping the boy informed. DEAR ABBY: My boyfriend and I have been dating for two months. I think I’m being too clingy, but he won’t tell me if I am. He says when I ask for reassurance, it drives him away. Every time we do anything remotely sexual, he tells me he feels guilty about it. He is sweet and caring. I don’t know what I’m doing wrong. I have never been so in love. I don’t want
to lose him. What should I do? -- IN LOVE IN ILLINOIS DEAR IN LOVE: This may seem counterintuitive, but take a step back. Stop asking for reassurance. Because he says he feels guilty about doing anything remotely sexual, the next time he makes a move, be less willing. Tell him you don’t want him to do anything that he will be sorry about later, and remind him what he said the last time. It may improve your relationship because, from your description, he appears to be immature and not ready for a romance. DEAR ABBY: My mother-inlaw is very ill and is preparing for the end. I feel bad for my spouse -- this will be a great loss. However, my motherin-law and I have never been close. She has been very negative about me, mostly behind my back. I have tolerated her and complained only to my spouse. When the end comes,
I know many people will express sympathy for “my loss.” I won’t be feeling remorse, but a sense of relief. Is there a kind way of stating that it is not a sad time for me because of our strained relationship? -- THE END IS NEAR DEAR END: Much as you might like to express those feelings publicly, I don’t advise it. It would be inappropriate and reflect badly on you. If someone offers condolences, say, “Thank you, how kind of you,” and keep the rest to yourself. If you do otherwise, you will be validating every bad thing that woman said behind your back. 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.
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.
Camp Hill man killed in single-car crash of a 6:30 a.m. crash on Alabama 49 near the mile-marker 15, approximately a halfA Camp Hill man mile north of Reeltown. lost his life in a singleThornton said Mann vehicle accident near was driving a 2011 Camp Hill Wednesday Hyundai Genesis that morning. left the road, struck a According to sign and tree before Alabama Law overturning. Mann was Enforcement Agency pronounced dead at the Public Information scene. Officer Cpl. Jesse Nothing further is Thornton, Eric Matthew available as Alabama Mann, 24, of Camp State Troopers continue Hill died as a result to investigate.
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Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Chapman Healthcare resident Mr. Mason picks up a snow cone from volunteer Mikala Warren Wednesday as the facility helped residents and staff celebrate National Nursing Home Week.
Chapman residents and staff get a cool treat By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
To help celebrate National Nursing Home Week, the staff and residents at Chapman Nursing Home were treated to a delicious and refreshing treat of Kona Ice. Some residents made their way to the serving station and asked for their favorite flavor, while others stayed indoors as their nurses and aides came out to the trailer and placed the order. “We’re here to honor our employees, but we always like letting the residents get to be a part as well,” said HR Director Leah Warren. “It makes them happy to be a part.” “This gets the residents outside and involved,” added Admissions Coordinator April Turner. In addition to having Kona Ice on site for National Nursing Home Chapman Nursing Home resident Linda Naler gets a sno cone from volunteer Mikala Warren Wednesday as the nursing home staff and residents celebrated Nursing Home Week.
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Hagan Scholarship Recipient Mr. Robert Beckett, a student at Benjamin Russell High School, was awarded a Hagan Scholarship to attend the University of Alabama-Huntsville to study Computer Science. The Hagan Scholarship is a need based merit scholarship; providing up to $5,000 each semester. Hagan Scholars will attend two hundred seven colleges and universities fall 2017.
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Week, Warren said that events like this occur once a month at the facility for employee appreciation. Falling on the last Friday of every month, the staff at Chapman gets a special, delicious meal cooked up for them. Other employee appreciation events include having a Back to School bash at the end of the summer. “We want to show our employees how much they’re appreciated,” said Warren. “It boosts morale.” Even with a variety of events for the staff and residents at Chapman, the snow cones rank as one of the most popular. “When we were getting set up and ready to open, they were lined up all the way around the corner,” Warren said. “We counted around 130 being served before 2 p.m.” All the residents were enjoying themselves, some coming back to
try a different flavor on a second cone. One resident proclaimed that it just hit the spot. The Chapman staff expressed their appreciation for having Kona Ice come out and serve up snow cones for them. “It feels great. I love being here and getting to do this kind of work,” said Ariel Lynn, an employee getting ready to become a certified CNA. “It feels good, and I enjoy working here a lot,” Aide Jaquetta Whetstone said. As the last cones were handed out and the staff and residents returned to their routine, they did so refreshed and ready to tackle whatever might arise during the evening. It may not have been huge, but getting a free snow cone to show how much they are truly appreciated made all the difference.
Thursday, May 18, 2017
The Outlook
Bees
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Lemay Farms wins Lake Martin Wild Game Cook-off By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Jim Pearson second-graders look a hive containing live honey bees at school Wednesday. Second grader Kenneth Mozo tries on a veil and gloves used by beekeepers with the help from Bob Collins.
mistaken for my honeybees have a long, hard needle for a stinger,” Robinson explained. “They can sting you once, twice, three times, as many times as they want. My honey bee has a stinger that has a barb on it. It is like the hook in my hat. When that barb goes in your skin, they can’t pull it out. A honeybee dies every time it stings.” The students were able to tell the beekeepers that honeybees have a head, thorax and abdomen all with other facts. TRBA has been doing this type of show and tell with students at Tallapoosa County Schools for a couple years. “We did a small one a couple years ago with my son’s class,” Alabama Cooperative Extension Agent Shane Harris said. “Last year we went to all
the county schools and this is the first year that we have been to Alexander City Schools.” First year or not the students have taken a liking to it as the Jim Pearson students continued to quiz Robinson about honeybees and the queen. “She can lay about 1,200 eggs a day everyday for two years and then it gets less,” Robinson said. “She can lay night and day but normally rests a little at night.” And the students may already be on to something with the energy they exhibited Wednesday. “Does she get tired?” one student asked. “No,” Robinson said. “She is the only one in the hive that gets royal jelly. It is like a super energy drink.”
The Lake Martin Amphitheater was filled with the delicious smell of wild game being cooked and prepared in a variety of ways this past Saturday during the Lake Martin Wild Game Cook-Off. The Alabama Wildlife Federation holds Wild Game Cook-Offs all over the state, allowing groups the chance to prepare wild fish and game in a unique and delectable way. From Redfish with Crawfish Au Gratin to Two Way Duck, 16 teams and their respective dishes were competing for the prize of Best Overall. With their entry of Venison Gyros, Lemay Farms claimed the title, earning them a spot in the final state-wide competition on August 5 at Lanark in Millbrook. Lemay Farms also took home first place in the game division, with second place going to Shana’s Place and their Venison Kabobs and Coosa County Cuisine’s Venison Patty Melt taking third. In the fish division, Co-Op Cut-Ups won first prize with their dish of Beddin Down. The Johnson Crew claimed second for the entry of Coosa Cake, and the Century 21 Lake Area Reality’s submission of Redfish with Crawfish Au Gratin won third. Puttin and Struttin Turkey Sliders from Struttin and Puttin Cookers was awarded first place in the fowl division, while the Johnson Crew’s Confit Duck Flatbread took second and Two Way Duck, submitted by Chop Shop Chaos finished third. Among the entries in the youth division, Co-Op Kids won top honors with the Venison Pepper Steak. Baby C’s B&B Big Buck Quesadilla finished second, while Turkey Devine from Little Jokers took third. Coosa County Cuisine also won the People’s Choice Award and was runnerup for the Best Presentation Award, with Co-Op Cut-Ups taking home the top spot for presentation.
Railroad
continued from page 1
massive Plant Scherer in Juliette, Georgia will still come through about once a week, most of the time with empty hopper cars. Sources say that will keep the rust of the rails and in good condition. Other than that, it is believed that the track will serve as a backup line and run trains only as needed. Tom Werner, who handles corporate communications for Norfolk Southern, said that the company does not comment on changes in service. “We’re always looking at all areas of our operations to see how we can improve customer service while at the same time becoming more efficient in our operations. That’s true in all of our 10 divisions, and in every aspect of our business,” Werner wrote in response to emailed questions about the reduction in service. “With so many facets of the business being considered, it is our policy not to comment on any rumored changes in service until we’re ready to make an announcement to our customers, employees, and the communities in which we operate. If, at some point, we decide to publicize an impending change to our service or operations, we’ll be happy to share the pertinent information.” The idea of only an occa-
Stay
sional train rumbling thing through Tallapoosa County as opposed the more than 10 that were scheduled regularly for decades, took some area residents by surprise. Records show that at its height of use, there were 16 trains that came through Alexander City each day. “I have always loved a train,” said Front Porch Show host Kenny Dean. “This town was built on trains and to think that there will only be trains come through here every now and then. That just blows me away. They have been part of the culture around here for so long, that’s just unreal.” The cut back comes at a time when Norfolk Southern and transportation officials have made a huge investment on crossing arms at three crossing in Alexander City and are currently weighing the closure of the Bibb Street crossing in the downtown area. Don McClellan of the Lake Martin Area Economic Development Alliance said that he doesn’t think it will have an impact on industries operating in the area currently. “We don’t have any who use rail to ship currently,” McClellan said. “But there have been times that as industries were looking to locate at a site,
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
This Norfolk Southern train was running on the Central of Georgia line near downtown last week. Officials are quiet but word that this line will not feature daily daily trains through our area for the time being.
they asked about it. We had a looking for was rail access. So Because the move is not a tire manufacturer visit and that that is a tool and resource that total closure, McClellan said no was one of the things they were can be helpful.” doors are being closed.
ASBESTOS LITIGATION continued from page 1
There was no date dockthe evidence is weighed eted for further hearings in court. “When you have done on the matter at this time. nothing wrong, you have g no choice to fight it,” Many a small thing Pritchard said at the time news broke of the board action. “When you have been in the business for nearly 50 years and have never had any problems and something like this comes up out of the blue, it’s just wrong.” Pritchard said he was looking forward to have ...with the right the evidence heard in an kind of advertising. unbiased court rather than before a board that had pre-conceived opinions going into the process. 256.234.4281
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Our
Thursday, May 18, 2017
The art of growing younger with age Today’sQuote
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Remember our fallen heroes every day W
T
here are some things we should never forget. Things like birthdays of a spouse or child, your address and phone number and your anniversary come immediately to mind. But there are more solemn things that we should also make sure are engrained in out minds. Events like the bombing of Pearl Harbor or 9-11 fall into that category. But locally, we should always remember that there are a lot of brave men and women who put their lives on the line to help keep us all safe. The men and women of law enforcement answer the call in our time of need. They rarely ask why; instead, they just charge forward because someone needs their help. They don’t have the luxury of fear or second thoughts. They do their job with honor even though there is always a risk that the next call could be the one that means they will not be coming home. The 21st Annual Law Enforcement Officer’s Memorial was held Wednesday and the names of the local law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty were read in a moving ceremony. The local fallen heroes are: • Deputy J. Kyle Young of Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department lost his life April 13, 1952. • Officer Larry Neal Stone of Camp Hill Police Department lost his life Dec. 20, 1968. • Officer Roland Hicks Jr., of Camp Hill Police Department lost his life August 10, 1969. • Officer Clarence Oden Martin of Alexander City Police Department lost his life Jan. 6, 1976. • Officer Reuben Milam of Alexander City Police Department lost his life July 4, 1976. • Deputy Leonard W. Brand of Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department lost his life May 25, 1986. • Officer Angeline Scruggs of Tallassee Police Department lost her life Nov. 11, 1992. They all sacrificed their lives so that we could be safe. So we ask that you commit these names to memory, so we can think of them every day, not just each year in May.
hen asked why his early works looked so solemn but later works seemed more exuberant and exciting, Pablo Picasso replied: “It takes a long time to become young.” I think the great artist was on to something. I believe it is possible to grow older but not grow old. To mature in wisdom and knowledge and at the same time become more playful and childlike. I have watched a few octogenarians demonstrate this idea beautifully. Here are a few of the things they do that separate them from their peers. They live with enormous gratitude. It almost is laughable how thankful these seniors are for all things. It is childlike, naive and quite beautiful. I do not believe you can be young when you are old without gratitude. They maintain optimal health for their age and work on staying in the best shape possible. Dick Van Dyke wrote recently in his book Keep Moving: And Other Tips and Truths About Aging, that he refused to go down the stairs sideways the way older people often do, no matter how much it hurts him to walk down straight and erect. He believes as soon as you give in to
them that even the best people have flaws and life can sometimes be messy. They have learned to focus on the good in people and to stop fixating on the bad. RAY WATERS It takes a long time, and Columnist many do not get here, but the temptation, the overthe happiest always do. compensation will result People growing younger in a hip or knee injury that have finally become just makes aging worse.” comfortable in their skin. Dick Van Dyke was born They no longer have to put in 1925 and is 92 years old. on a facade. They can be And, he carries himself like who they truly are. And that a man 40 years younger. is very liberating. They abandon worry. I was a pretty serious Life has taught them that young man. I had places to stressing about things never go and people to meet and helps a situation. They have successes to accumulate. I learned to change those wasn’t always sure where I things they can change and was going but knew I was accept those things that moving fast headed towards can’t. But most of all, they who knows where. don’t spend any energy I was told more than worrying. once that I had a permanent They live with purpose. scowl on my face. I was They serve in their stressed out. I was old, community, church or yet still young. Now it synagogue. They make is reversed. The fear is cakes and take them to leaving. The laugh lines people who are homebound. are growing deeper. I am They stay in touch with learning to love people their friends on the phone with no judgment. Life is or Facebook. They look out sweeter than I ever thought for each other. They keep it could be. their grandkids or their I am truly thankful for great grandkids - regularly. every new day. It does They live meaningful lives take a long time to become that give them a sense young. But the journey is they are still contributing oh so worth it. to their world. Their lives Ray Waters is a minister matter. They have a reason and motivational speaker. to get out of bed every day. His column appears each They stop judging Thursday in The Outlook. people. Age has taught
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
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Thursday Question: Do think a decrease in train traffic in Alexander City is a good thing or bad thing? To participate in this daily poll, log on each day to www.alexcityoutlook.com and vote. Find out the vote totals in the next edition of The Outlook and see if your vote swayed the results.
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“The way of the Lord is a refuge for the righteous, but it is the ruin of those who do evil.” – Proverbs 10:29
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.
Jim Nabors
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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.
“Give light and people will the way.” – Ella Baker
O
n Sunday, I was the guest speaker at Eagle Creek Baptist Church on Highway 49 between Dadeville and New Site. I’ve known about this church for most of my life as it’s just a few miles from where both my mama and daddy grew up. In fact, my maternal grandparents are buried in the Eagle Creek cemetery. “It’s a sweet church with sweet people,” Pastor Dr. Tim Thompson said to me via an online message. Dr. Thompson, as many of you know, was the long-time pastor at First and Frazer United Methodist Churches in Opelika and Montgomery, respectively. Unfortunately, he couldn’t be in attendance, hence the need of a guest speaker. Like many of you, I’ve had a great deal of things going on over the past few months, ranging from bad and depressing to really bright and exciting. It’s just how life goes, but that dark cloud has been lingering for a few days now. I just do the best I can with what I have. Over the past week, I’ve found myself singing the old hymn “Trust and Obey,” which, along with “Amazing Grace” has always been one of my favorite songs in the hymnal. I really wasn’t sure what to expect as I made the drive up Highway 49. While I’ve spoken at many churches, I’ve
JODY FULLER Columnist
only spoken at one other on a Sunday morning in lieu of a preacher. I can talk all day long but a preacher, I am not. I knew it was a sweet church with sweet people, so I just trusted, obeyed, and prayed for God’s amazing grace. I walked in to the sanctuary and found a place to sit on the back row. It was a Baptist church after all. When in Rome… During the announcements, I glanced over my bulletin and began to tear up. The call to worship song was “Till the Storm Passes Over.” The congregational hymn was “Trust and Obey,” and you guessed it, the praise song was “Amazing Grace.” The fellowship song was “God is Good All the Time.” My talk went well. There was lots of laughter with a positive message of service to others. After the service, I stood on the porch and shook hands and hugged necks. Many, if not most, knew much of my family, so it almost felt like a family atmosphere. Some of them went to school with my mama,
and some went to school with my dad. One of them was at their wedding. Some of them knew my grandparents, aunts, and uncles on both sides of the family and had stories to tell. One lady sells tomatoes to mama and step-father. One sweet lady talked about how much she loved my grandmother and fondly remembered her singing the old hymns. Grandmamma didn’t attend Eagle Creek Baptist Church. She attended a nearby church but was always singing the old hymns, so she might have heard her belting out “The Old Rugged Cross” or “He Walks with Me” at anywhere from the nursing home to the grocery store. I was only there for a little over an hour, but it could not have gone any better. It was a sweet church with sweet people. The music, too, was sweet and could not have been more fitting. God is indeed good all the time. The storm shall pass. The Son will shine. We simply must trust and obey. His amazing grace is all we need. Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier with three tours of duty in Iraq. He is also a lifetime stutterer. He can be reached at jody@ jodyfuller.com. For more information, please visit www. jodyfuller.com.
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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Memorial
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continued from page 1
we do, but it’s a reminder that it sometimes comes with a price.” The special guest speaker for the event was Dale County Sheriff Wally Olsen who is currently serving as 2017 President of the Alabama Sheriff’s Association. Olsen’s message was a work of thanks. “You see all those here today who serve us all,” Olsen said, “Be sure to thank them. Tell them you love them. Thank them for all the long hours, for the missed dinners and missed birthdays when they were out making sure our community was safe. To those who serve, I tell them to be careful. I always remind officers that in God we trust, but all others we run through NCIC.” During the ceremony Mayor Jim Nabors welcomed those in attendance and Reverend John Hill of Flint Hill United Methodist Church gave the invocation. Harlan Burton sang “America the Beautiful” and “Proud to be an American.” Abbett, who had led the Pledge of Allegiance, also read the names of the seven fallen officers aloud and officers in the crowd recited information about their death. Those officers were: Deputy J. Kyle Young of Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department lost his life April 13, 1952. Officer Larry Neal Stone of Camp Hill Police Department lost his life Dec. 20, 1968. Officer Roland Hicks Jr., of Camp Hill Police Department lost his life August 10, 1969. Officer Clarence Oden Martin of Alexander City Police Department lost his life Jan. 6, 1976. Officer Reuben Milam of Alexander City Police Department lost his life July 4, 1976. Deputy Leonard W. Brand of Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department lost his life May 25, 1986. Officer Angeline Scruggs of Tallassee Police Department lost her life Nov. 11, 1992. ACPD Police Chief Jay Turner then placed a wreath at the police memorial in memory of the fallen officers as Jim MacRae of Trussville played “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes, dressing in the traditional kilt and piper’s regalia. The ACPD Honor Guard then gave a 21 Gun Salute, and Chief Deputy David McMichael from the TCSD played “Taps” on the trumpet. The benediction was then given by Rev. Mike Waldrop of River of Life Church. Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Sheriff Jimmy Abbett reads the names of local fallen officers, Harlan Burton sings ‘America the Beautiful,’ David McMichael plays ‘Taps’ on the trumpet and piper Jim MacRae plays ‘Amazing Grace’ on the bagpipes at Wednesday’s Law Enforcement Memorial Service in Alexander City.
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ARTS ASSOCIATION: The Artists Association of Central Alabama will travel to the Birmingham Museum May 18. There will be a car pool by meeting at the Sportplex Senior Center at 8 a.m. SPRING PROGRAM: Faith Christian Academy will present
Thursday, May 18, 2017
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its 11th Annual Spring program on Thursday at 6:00 pm at Faith Temple. The 86-voice choir will present a musical,Heroes on the Home Front, under the direction of Mrs. Sandra Stark which honors the role of fathers and mothers. The program includes FCA’s Dance Troupe, biblical recitations, the Second Grade Handbell Choir, and drama. Mrs. Vickie Waters’ FCA art students will have an art exhibit, and Mrs. Angela Long’s fourth grade class will present a President’s display. The public is
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Hope Abrams, Brayden Brown, Zoey Fields, Lynley Forbus, Jackson Fuller, Dakota Houlton, Anna Grace Lambert, Charlie Morgan, Lynlee Ratliff, Campdell Richardson, Emma Swindle, Katie Waldrop, and Lily Wall each raised at least $100 during Stephens Elementary’s Jump Rope for Heart program. Not pictured are Linley Brown and Dylan Eastridge. May 20
COMMUNITY PRAYER: The Darian Missionary Baptist Church family and prayer team are offering prayer to the community May 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot on the corner of Laurel and E streets across from Stephens School. SPRING FESTIVAL: Union Volunteer Fire and Rescue (UVF&R) will host its 35th Annual Spring Festival on May 20th 2017 at Fire Station #1, 5171 Hwy 50 near Dadeville at Lake Martin. The Festival is the department’s premiere fundraiser and will feature a wide variety of arts and craft booths and household items for sale. The Festival will also present live local musician, “River Dan”, a Military Working Dog Demonstration, BBQ plates for sale, children’s games and other activities designed for the entire family. The keynote event is a cash raffle that has awarded thousands in cash prizes. Tickets are available for a $20 donation. For individuals interested in renting a booth, cost is only $10 for a 10x10 space. If you have questions, would like to rent a booth or obtain raffle tickets, please contact Kurt Pfitzner, Director, Community Outreach, UVF&R, at 334-233-9852. SCHOOL REUNION: Enitahatchabee Day-Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends Association 2017 Reunion Saturday, May 20 at the Bibb Graves Community Center in Millerville, AL Registration begins at 9 a.m. (registration required for drawing of framed Donny Finley print to be given away).Trade Day Shops will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring your family and friends, your smiles, your camera, and your expectations for a spectacular day featuring music, food and laughter. Tell former classmates to meet you there. There will be silent auction, cake walk, 50/50. Food available for purchase with hamburger steak or chicken finger plates, hamburgers, hot dogs, and cold drinks. Items available for purchase include Donny Finley prints, T-shirts, cookbooks, DVD’s including football, basketball and school days. All alumni and friends are invited to come together to remember the good old days. COMMUNITY TRADE DAY: Fellowship Baptist Church at 1731 Buttson Road Dadvillle will be hosting a Community Trade Day May 20. There will be a 5k walk/run beginning at 7 a.m. and cost to enter is $25. Vendor booths will open at 9 a.m. To reserve a booth contact Pastor Clinton Branch at 256-794-3351. Fish plates will also be available. CLASS MEETING: There will be a class meeting for the Laurel High School Class of 1969 at the Cooper Recreation Center May 20 at 10 a.m. FRIENDS AND FAMILY FUN DAY: New Adka Missionary Baptist Church is hosting Friends and Family Fun Day Saturday, May 20 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. with games, food and fellowship.
May 21
BACCALAUREATE SERVICE: The Benjamin Russell Baccalaureate Service for Seniors hosted by he Alexander City Area Ministerial Association will be May 21 at 7 p.m. at the BRHS Auditorium. PASTOR ANNIVERSARY: Hollins Spring Missionary Baptist Church will be hosting its 12th annual Pastoral Anniversary honoring Rev. and Sister Alfred J. Williams Sr. on May 21 at
2:30 p.m. Guest minister and guest church will be Rev. Larry D. Shealey of Darian Missionary Baptist Church in Alexander City. SCHOOL ANNIVERSARY: Midway School will be celebrating its 100th Anniversary May 21 with a third Sunday Singing and dinner or the ground. Please bring a covered dish and join in. PASTORAL ANNIVERSARY: Great Bethel Baptist Church will be celebrating the 28th Pastoral Anniversary of Rev. Dr. Emerson Ware Jr. May 21 at 2:30 p.m. Rev. Melvin Ervin is the guest speaker. SOLIDARITY DAY: New Adka Missionary Baptist Church is hosting a solidarity day May 21 at 11 a.m. Edward Milner is pastor and all churches are invited. GATHERING OF SISTERS: the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is hosting a Gathering of the Sisters program Sunday, May 21 at 2 p.m. Guest speakers are Sister Kathleen Spradley and Sister Jackie Strong. Pastor of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is Rev. Roosevelt Gregory. CHURCH HOMECOMING: Bethel Baptist Church South will hold homecoming Sunday, May 21 at 10 a.m. The Hinson Family will be singing. Lunch will be at noon in the fellowship hall. Bring a covered dish and enjoy the day. CHURCH HOMECOMING: Darien Primitive Baptist Church will be observing homecoming Sunday, May 21 at 10:30 Elder Jonathan Blakeley of Wetumpka will be the guest minister. A covered dish lunch will follow the morning service. All friends descendants of former members are cordially invited to attend this service. Darien Church is located five miles wes of Wadley just off Highway 22 at Cotney’s old store.
May 22
MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION MEETING: The Alex City Area Ministerial Association meeting will be Monday, May 22 at 6:30 p.m. at Family Worship Center located at 1676 Sewell Street, Alexander City. For more information, contact President Tony Harris at 256-794-2969.
May 27
MAY DAY: Cottage Grove is hosting an Old Fashioned May Day Saturday, May 27 at 7 a.m. at J.D. Thompson High School. FAMILY GAME NIGHT: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have Family Game Night Bingo from 5 a.m. until 8 p.m. Saturday May 27 . Begin with hot dogs, pizza, chips, and soft drinks.
May 28
PASTORAL ANNIVERSARY: Macedonia Baptist Missionary Baptist Church in Goodwater is hosting the 19th Pastor Appreciation Service honoring Pastor and Sister Melvin Ervin Sunday, May 28 at 2:30 p.m. Guest speaker will be Brian Thomas of Paradise Mission Full Gospel Church in Goodwater. MISSION DAY: Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is celebrating Mission Day May 28 at 10 a.m. Rev. Roosevelt Gregory is pastor. Everyone is invited. PASTORAL ANNIVERSARY: Sardis Missionary Baptist Church in Dadeville will observe the 26th
Pastoral Anniversary of Rev. and Sister William Perry Jr. Sunday, May 28 at 2:30 p.m. Rev. Justin Freeman and the New Canaan Missionary Baptist Church of Camp Hill will be the special guests.
May 30
SUMMER CAMP: The Salvation Army is hosting a free summer camp at Camp Hidden Lake in Lexington, MS June 19-24 for Tallapoosa and Coosa county children ages 7-12. The Salvation Army camps provide kids an opportunity to be in a positive environment for the summer to grow, learn and be encourage while striving to meet their spiritual, social, recreational and educational needs. Activities include Bible study, swimming, fishing, arts and crafts and sports. Registration should be completed by May 30. Anyone needing more information may contact the Alexander City Service Center at 256-215-3730.
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VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: New Salem Baptist Church is hosting Vacation Bible School May 31 -June 2 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
June 1
PAINTING CLASS: the Adelia Russell Library is hosting a an adult painting class with Bonnie Luckie June 1 at 10 a.m. Space is limited and registration is required.
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VBS KICKOFF: Wayside Baptist Church is hosting a vacation Bible school kickoff June 2 from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The “Galactic Starveyors VBS Kickoff” will have glow in the dark games, making smores over open fire pit and checking out constellations. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: River Road Baptist Church will be hosting Vacation Bible School June 2 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. for ages 3 through 11 years old. Children will be studying Galactic Starveyors.
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June 3
LEADERSHIP SUMMIT: New Style Baptist Church on Coosa County Road 20 in Equality will be hosting a leadership summit June 3 from 10 a.m. to noon. Topics include “The Importance of a Prayer Life,” “Church Etiquette” and “How to be an Effective Leader.” Speakers are Mrs. Pam Jones, Mrs Johnny Walton and Rev. Chris Spivey of Walnut Grove, Mississippi. Lunch will be served. INTRO TO SAILING: The Dixie Sailing Club is hosting its annual Intro to Sailing class June 3 starting at 10 a.m. at the Dixie Sailing Club at 767 New Hope Church Road. There will be a chalk talk on sailing basics, a tour of the boat yard, learn to sail and a sail on a member’s boat along with lunch. Attendance is limited is to 60. Contact Keith Bennett at 334-3249383 or email cat221@msn.com to reserve your spot. PASTOR APPRECIATION: New Adka Missionary Baptist Church is celebrating the 22nd anniversary of Rev. Edward Milner and Sister Emily Milner Saturday, June 3 at 5 p.m. at the New Adka Education Building at 21 North Thornton Road, Dadeville. Guest Speaker will be Rev. David L. Benton of Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church in Prattville.
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The Outlook
Thursday, May 18, 2017
LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
sports@alexcityoutlook.com
Thursday, May 18, 2017
JOE MCADORY Sports Columnist
Page 9
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COMEBACK KIDS
Stidham might be Auburn’s QB solution now, but what about 2018?
W
ho is going to be Auburn’s quarterback for the 2018 season? Seriously. I’m not kidding. Sure, I’m peering far into the future when most are forecasting what might or might not happen this fall. But it’s a question those making tough decisions inside the Auburn Football Complex should consider. If junior college transfer Jarrett Stidham is the second coming of Drew Brees, as some analysts have predicted, what is to stop the thirdyear sophomore from entering the 2018 NFL Draft? If I were a quarterback with an opportunity to make instant millions as a first-round pick, I’d certainly trade calculus textbooks for an NFL playbook and a Ferrari. If the kid proves to be a onehit wonder (a la Cam Newton) and packs his bags for the pros next April, you can’t blame him. Stidham is expected to be the solution to Auburn’s quarterback struggles, which never resolved once Nick Marshall’s departure following the 2014 season. But Stidham wasn’t supposed to be a temporary solution, right? Maybe Stidham will have a spectacular season and stick around anyway. Maybe Stidham will not live up to the hype and the NFL Draft will not be a point of discussion. Regardless, Stidham will be an improvement over Jeremy Johnson, so a position upgrade is inevitable. What about Sean White? The kid from south Florida can run the offense, as he showed last season when he was healthy. He might not be as dynamite of a weapon as Stidham, but he can be steady nonetheless, particularly when his arm isn’t fractured. White is the natural answer to fill Stidham’s shoes, should Stidham turn pro. But who’s to say White will be on the football team in 2018? Some players graduate before their eligibility expires. Could White be one of those guys? Not to sound like Debbie Downer, or some sad sack who looks for something to gripe about, but Auburn must consider the possibility of both Stidham and White no longer being an option next spring. It’s a long shot, but quarterback is such a valuable position – particularly to Gus Malzahn’s offense – coaches should take the proactive position now. Heralded recruit Woody Barrett, who some compared to Newton in high school, recently left the team and transferred to the junior college ranks. He was not Auburn’s answer anyway, but Barrett’s departure could create a bit of a depth dilemma. The same goes for Tyler Queen, who announced his intent to transfer earlier this spring. With Barrett or Queen out of the running, what are Auburn’s options at quarterback in 2018 should Stidham and White move on? True freshman Malik Willis, an Atlanta product, looked magnificent in the A-Day spring game, completing 11 of 18 passes for 157 yards. He’s also a runner in the mold of Marshall. But a great A-Day game does not make a great quarterback. Put up these numbers against SEC competition and we’re satisfied. He’s shown the coaches great promise, which is obviously better than what Barrett showed. Then there’s Joey Gatewood, a Jacksonville, Florida prep senior who has been committed to the Tigers for almost three years. He’s big. He’s fast. He’s got an arm … and now Alabama has offered him a scholarship. Of course they would. They’d be foolish not to. Assuming Gatewood honors his commitment, his presence should loom large over Auburn’s offensive plans for the next three years, at least. If something happens and Gatewood doesn’t arrive, other options must be available. The time to explore those options is now. Joe McAdory is communications editor at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business.
Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook
Horseshoe Bend’s Hannah Adcock, above, runs to third base against Collinsville during the first round of the AHSAA Class 2A softball tournament. Adcock had an RBI single in the Generals’ 3-2 victory. Below, Horseshoe Bend’s Caly Carlisle makes contact with a pitch against Collinsville during the first round of the AHSAA Class 2A softball tournament on Wednesday morning. Bottom, Kynsley Blasingame directs traffic from the circle.
Generals advance to winners’ bracket final By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
Just call Horseshoe Bend the Comeback Kids. Seemingly in every game, Horseshoe Bend’s softball team has been behind late, and every game, the Generals just seem to find a way to win. They did it again twice on Wednesday to advance to the winners’ bracket final on Thursday morning at 9 a.m. “I’m so ready to go play,” Horseshoe Bend shortstop Cheyanna Howard said. “I think we’re a team with a great chance, and I’m so excited. It was simple errors that lost us the regionals, and I believe that if we play an error-free game, we’ll be good.” Horseshoe Bend will face Hatton, which was a 5-1 winner over G.W. Long in the other Wednesday semifinal. Much like regionals, it took a pair of come-from-behind victories for Horseshoe Bend to advance. The Generals defeated Collinsville, 3-2, to begin the day before ousting Mars Hill Bible, 3-1, in the semifinals. “That’s been our M.O. – I guess we have to spot them a run early and then we’ll win,” Generals coach David Caldwell said with a laugh. “No, we’ve been fighting and we’ve been doing it all year.” A rough inning for the Generals gave Mars Hill Bible a 1-0 lead after the fourth inning. The Panthers led off with a single and they followed it with two walks to
load the bases with no outs. A safety squeeze allowed Erika Mitchell to score to give Mars Hill its only run of the game. But Horseshoe Bend quickly answered. With one out in the bottom of the fifth, Sydnie Catrett smashed a double to leftcenterfield, and she was plated by a clutch single from pinch hitter Caly Carlisle. “She’s been big,” Carlisle said. “I wanted to put a lefty up there because (their pitcher) hadn’t seen a lefthander the whole game. She went up there, got a good pitch and drove up the middle. It was a great at-bat.” Danielle Mitchell followed See GENERALS • Page 10
Let’s see your big fish The Stewart family caught this largemouth bass on a recent fishing trip. Posed with the fish are son Janson Stewart, left, with his father Jason. The Stewart family caught this catfish on a recent fishing trip. Posed with the fish are son Jason Stewart, right, and Sasha Stewart. Send in photos of your biggest summer catches to sports editor Lizi Arbogast, lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com, for a chance to be featured in the Outlook.
AREA SPORTS CALENDAR Thursday, May 18 Class 2A AHSAA Tournament Winner’s bracket Game 11: Horseshoe Bend vs. Hatton, 9 a.m. Game 7 winner vs. Game 8 winner, 9 a.m. Game 14: Game 11 winner vs. Game 13 winner,
4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., if necessary Friday, May 19 Loser’s bracket Football Game 12: G.W. Long-Leroy winner vs. Mars Hill Spring game: Benjamin Russell at Valley, 5:30 Bible-New Brockton winner, 10:30 a.m. p.m. Game 13: Game 12 winner vs. Game 11 loser, Dadeville intrasquad game, 6 p.m. 1:30 p.m.
Page 10
2017 AHSA A Baseball Playoffs CLASS 1A Championship
Monday’s schedule Sweet Water 4, Decatur Heritage 2 Tuesday’s schedule Sweet Water (31-7) vs. Decatur Heritage (23-12) at Riverwalk, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., if necessary
CLASS 2A Championship
www.alexcityoutlook.com vs. Madison Academy (29-13) at Paterson Field, 4 and 7 p.m., if necessary Semifinal results UMS-Wright 7-1-18, LAMP 5-4-0; UMS-Wright (26-12) wins series, 2-1 Madison Academy 2-5-9, Haleyville 1-6-3; Madison Academy (2913) wins series, 2-1
CLASS 5A Championship
Wednesday’s schedTuesday’s schedule ule Fayetteville (25-11) vs. Russellville (36-8) vs. G.W. Long at Paterson Faith Academy (29-6) at Field, 4 p.m. Paterson Field, 6 p.m. Wednesday’s schedThursday’s schedule ule Russellville (36-8) vs. Fayetteville (25-11) vs. Faith Academy (29-6) at G.W. Long at Paterson Paterson Field, 10 a.m. Field, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., and 1 p.m., if necessary if necessary Semifinal results Semifinal results Faith Academy 3-14, G.W. Long 8-6, Leroy Rehobeth 2-1; Faith 0-0; G.W. Long wins Academy (29-6) wins series, 2-0 series, 2-0 Fayetteville 4-1-5, Russellville 6-7; Mars Hill Bible 0-3-4; Ardmore 0-3; Russellville Fayetteville (25-11) wins (36-8) wins series, 2-0 series, 2-1
CLASS 3A Championship
Monday’s schedule Gordon 9, Piedmont 0 Tuesday’s schedule Gordon (34-8) vs. Piedmont (27-13) at Riverwalk, 4 and 7 p.m., if necessary Semifinal results Gordo 4-2-5, American Christian 3-8-2; Gordo (33-8) wins series, 2-1 Piedmont 4-2, Colbert Heights 2-1; Piedmont (27-12) wins series, 2-0
CLASS 4A Championship
Tuesday’s schedule UMS-Wright (26-12) vs. Madison Academy (29-13) at Paterson Field, 7 p.m. Wednesday’s schedule UMS-Wright (26-12)
CLASS 6A Championship
Thursday’s schedule Helena (36-5) vs. Cullman (37-7) at Paterson Field, 6 p.m. Friday’s schedule Helena (36-5) vs. Cullman (37-7) at Paterson Field, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., if necessary Semifinal results Helena 2-5, HillcrestTuscaloosa 1-2; Helena (36-5) wins series, 2-0 Cullman 8-4, Hueytown 1-3; Cullman (37-7) wins series, 2-0
CLASS 7A Championship
Friday’s schedule Hoover (37-9) vs. Auburn (27-10) at Paterson Field, 6 p.m. Saturday’s schedule Hoover (37-9) vs. Auburn (27-10) at
The Outlook Paterson Field, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., if necessary Semifinal results Auburn 6-12, Theodore 4-6; Auburn (27-10) wins series, 2-0 Hoover 9-3, Vestavia Hills 8-1; Hoover (37-9) wins series, 2-0
Generals
Thursday, May 18, 2017
continued from page 9
2017 AHSA A State Soccer Playoffs GIRLS CLASS 1A/3A Championship
Montgomery Academy (20-6) 4, Westbrook Christian (14-4-5) 0
CLASS 4A/5A Championship
Briarwood Christian (15-5-3) 6, St. John Pual II (14-7-2) 0
CLASS 6A Championship
Chelsea (17-6-2) 2, Southside-Garden (166-1) 0
CLASS 7A Championship
McGill-Toolen Catholic (24-2) 2, Vestavia Hills (19-2-3) 0
BOYS CLASS 1A/3A Championship
Indian Springs (22-2-5) 2, Susan Moore (20-41) 1
CLASS 4A/5A
Randolph (24-2-3) 3, Briarwood Christian (176-3) 2
CLASS 6A
Pelham (19-7-3) 2, Cullman (20-9-2) 0
CLASS 7A
Oak Mountain (20-6-4) 2, Davidson (18-13-1) 1 (PK: 3-0)
Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook
Horseshoe Bend’s Abby Cheatam (3) is called out at second base against Collinsville shortstop Trinity Garner during the first round of the AHSAA Class 2A softball tournament on Wednesday morning.
Carlisle with a single to put a pair of runners on for Howard, who sliced a two-run double to leftfield. “I was just trying to make something happen, nothing big,” Howard said. “Kynsley (Blasingame) always tells us to do something small and your teammates will follow. I had teammates in scoring position and I needed a hit, so I was just looking for a base hit.” Blasingame once again had a stupendous effort in the circle. In 14 innings of work on Wednesday, Blasingame finished with 23 strikeouts and only four walks. She gave up six hits and three runs, just two of which were earned. Finally in the game against Mars Hill Bible, Blasingame was backed by an error-free defense. “I think knowing what’s on the line and knowing your team is capable of doing great things at state made the difference,” Howard said. “You just need to step up your game and be there for your teammates. Kynsley is pitching her heart out, and you have to back her up and know that you can do it.” Earlier in the day, Collinsville went
up 1-0 the fourth inning with a home run from Abbigale Ford. Horseshoe Bend answered by taking the lead on RBI hits from Hannah Adcock and Catrett, but the Panthers tied it at 2-2 in the bottom of the sixth. In the seventh inning, Lily Combs played hero with a single and the game-winning run when she was plated by Blasingame; she also had a gamesaving catch in leftfield in the home half of the inning. “Lily Combs made some great plays in leftfield,” Caldwell said. “I knew she had the ability. She can run and she’s a good athlete, but sometimes she’s a little apprehensive. I think she’s starting to let that go.” Combs said, “I think (that hit) was very important. I try to be humble, so I don’t like to make myself big, but it was an important play to get people home. We really needed that hit, and I felt really good about it.” If Horseshoe Bend defeats Hatton on Thursday morning, they’ll advance to the championship game at 4 p.m. If not, they’ll still have a chance to battle back in the losers’ bracket final, which will be played at 1:30 p.m.