Generals come up sh ort
OPINION: A NOTE OF THANKS, PAGE 4
FRIDAY
THE
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892
May 19, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 99 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢
Constable abolishment may or may not require vote of the people By MITCH SNEED Editor
The Alabama State Senate passed and sent back to the House an amended bill that would abolish constable positions in Tallapoosa County provided the voters opt to do so after it is put on the ballot. House Bill 569, a piece of local legislation introduced by Rep. Pebblin
Warren of Tuskegee, had been previously passed by the House of Representatives in a roll call vote where just 12 representatives voted yes, Alexander City’s Mark Tuggle voted no and 77 representatives did not vote. The original bill read: “In Tallapoosa County, effective at the end of the current term of office of any constable See CONSTABLE • Page 3
SPORTS, PAGE 9
Celebrating Nursing Home Week Area facilities hold festivities for staff and residents By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Nursing homes are sometimes seen as a depressing place, where senior citizens unable to take care of themselves live out the remaining years of their life in an almost hospital-like setting. However, there are times when nursing home facilities do their best to find exciting ways to brighten up the lives of the residents. Begun in 1967, National Nursing Home Week was established by the American Health Care Association to recognize the important role these facilities play in the lives of America’s elderly. Nursing homes throughout Alexander City are not only celebrating their residents and staff during this week, but are doing so with plenty of fun activities for the seniors to take part in. “Our big things this week are having Aubie come out and spend time with the residents tomorrow [Thursday] and the barbecue cookout on Friday,” said Adams Nursing Home Activity Director Linda Young. “Today [Wednesday]
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
ACPD Chief Jay Turner shakes the hands of newly promoted Lieutenant Chris Spivey at a ceremony Wednesday.
ACPD officers’ achievements recognized
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Brown’s Nursing Home residents Myra Goss, center, and Eddie Moncrief hold hands while Linda Campbell, left, looks own before the winner of Ms. Brown’s Nursing Home was announced Thursday. Below. Adams Nursing Home resident Dean Colby gives Aubie a kiss at the facility as Aubie stopped by to help celebrate.
Family and friends of some of Alexander City’s finest gathered in the municipal courtroom Thursday evening as the officers were recognized for promotions or outstanding service. “I’m proud of them. They do a fine job, and in these situations, they went above and beyond,” Alexander City Police Chief Jay Turner said. “Each year, we have the Law Enforcement Memorial. We want to not only celebrate the memory of those who lost their life, but also honor those still present. I’m very proud of my officers,” he added. Turner went on to explain that a Promotion and Award Ceremony like this would become an annual event and would be held on the same day as the Law Enforcement Memorial
was a great time, as some of our residents dressed up like singers. We had The Temptations, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton and others.” “We started the week with USA Day and a military meet and greet,” said Cecily Lee, the administrator of Brown Nursing Home. “Tuesday was Luau Day, and Elvis came and performed for the residents. We’ll have a nursing home pageant on Thursday, and for Team See CELEBRATION • Page 7
Stephens students enthralled by snake show
See PROMOTIONS • Page 3
By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
The bleachers in the Stephens Elementary gymnasium were filled with excited third- and fourth-graders Thursday afternoon as Rebecca Tucker and Lori Feazell of Yarbrough’s Educational Reptiles prepared to showcase a wide range of snakes and other reptiles. Officially started by Tucker’s father in 1967, she began doing these demonstrations in 2008. “We primarily travel throughout Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi giving our presentations,” Tucker said. “We usually bring around 15 to 20 reptiles with us to each show.” Beginning with several different types of snakes the students might encounter in the area, Tucker and Feazell explained why to avoid killing king and rat snakes, how to tell the difference between a poisonous coral snake and a non-poisonous milk snake and what to do when accidentally getting too close to one of these creatures.
Several musicians in free concert at Sportplex Saturday By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Donald Campbell / The Outlook
Stephens Elementary School students hold a stretched out Albino Burmese Python at Thursday Yarbrough’s Reptile Show in the school’s gym.
“Kingsnakes are sometimes called good snakes because they will eat poisonous snakes,” Tucker said. Following allowing the students to see the kinds of snakes that are not as harmful to humans, the two then
brought out some that might be seen in the area that are quite dangerous. “The coral snake is the most venomous of all the snakes in this part of the United States, but it’s not seen See REPTILES • Page 3
Starting Friday: King Arthur 3D – PG-13
Guardians of the Galaxy 2 3D – PG-13 Alien: Covenant– R
The Alexander City Sportplex will play host to a free “Blues in the Park” concert on Saturday afternoon. Musical acts at the concert will include Willie B, Bill Avery, Stan Butler, Toia Jones and Wilson Meadows. “I’ve been in the music business for 40 something odd years now,” said concert organizer Tyrone Oliver, who has worked with concerts like these in west Alabama. “I wanted to get events like those in this area.” Stan Chilly Cooks was initially scheduled to be part of the lineup, but due to a schedule conflict, Willie B and Bill Avery were added to replace Cooks See CONCERT • Page 3
Lake Martin
Today’s
Lake Levels
Weather
490.61
88 67 High
Reported on 5/19/17 @ 8 a.m.
Low
LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443
laceyshowell@gmail.com 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL
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Reluctant grandparents veto couple’s plan to start a family
Saturday
87 67 Low
High
Mostly sunny, 30 percent chance of thunderstorms after 1 p.m.
Sunday
80 67 Low
High
Cloudy, 70 percent chance of thunderstorms
Staff
Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Amy Passaretti Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com
Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, Ext. 228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com 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 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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Friday, May 19, 2017
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DEAR ABBY: I have been married for almost five years, and my husband and I recently decided to try to have a baby. I am really excited about the possibility of being a mom. My problem is, my parents and his parents don’t want to be grandparents. I will be 30 this year, and they keep telling me I should wait until I’m 40 to have kids. I have endometriosis, and I know if I wait too long it will be even harder to get pregnant. On top of all the pressure our families are putting me under, I just found out my sister has been married almost a year and hasn’t told anyone. I don’t want to disappoint our families or force something on them they are not ready for. I’m not sure what to do now. I want my husband and me to be happy. Any advice would be appreciated. -- STRESSED OUT IN OHIO
DEAR ABBY Advice
DEAR STRESSED: I know you want to be a good daughter, but you are allowing your parents (and in-laws) to weigh in on a decision that should be yours and your husband’s alone. Your reason for not wanting to postpone motherhood makes sense. Understand that not everyone wants to be a grandparent and be glad you’re finding out upfront that the parents will not be baby-sitting. Many disappointed readers have written me after the fact to express their dismay when they realized it. Take from this the lesson that you must live your own life.
And, by the way, so should your sister. If there are consequences from her elopement, she should experience them. But under no circumstances should you allow yourself to be dragged into her drama. DEAR ABBY: I have a wonderful husband I love deeply and can’t imagine my life without. We have a beautiful marriage. We never fight or really even argue. We have been together for 11 years and only during the last couple of years has he started doing something that troubles me. In the afternoon or evening, if I need to go to the store -- or anywhere for that matter -- he gets upset and gives me the silent treatment and doesn’t want me to go. I trust him and let him do whatever he wants. I have never given him a reason to not trust me, so why does it make
him so angry if I need to run to the store? I feel I deserve the same respect and trust that I show him. How do I make him see how much it hurts me for him to act like this? -- FEELING MISTRUSTED IN THE SOUTH DEAR FEELING MISTRUSTED: What you are describing is a red flag that if ignored could ruin your beautiful marriage. Your husband’s insecurity and need to control you may stem from the fact that he has been hiding something from you. Tell him that you love him, but for the sake of your marriage, the two of you should go to couples counseling. 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.
Spring Festival in Union Saturday
Obituaries Mr. Tommie Louis Gaddis Mr. Tommie Louis Gaddis, 76, of Sylacauga, AL died on Wednesday, May 17, 2017 at his residence. Final arrangements entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Services.
Barry S. Brooks Barry S. Brooks of Knoxville, TN (formerly of Alexander City) passed away May 16, in Knoxville,TN. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by Wright’s Funeral Home.
How to Submit Obituaries 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.
of a 1928 Model A Ford fire truck, owned by retired Air Force Colonel John Blumentritt. The colonel was the The members of the Union Volunteer 1994 recipient of the Mackay Trophy Fire & Rescue will be ready to host the for his role in rescuing six sailors from a 35th annual Spring Festival on Saturday, sinking ship off the coast of Iceland. May 20 at their fire hall on Highway 50 The festival will also feature the south of Dadeville. always-popular 50/50 raffle. For a $20 “It’s an annual fundraiser to help donation to the Union Volunteer Fire & cover operational expenses,” said Kurt Rescue, attendees will receive a ticket, Pfitzner, the Director of Community entering them for the chance to win half Outreach for the unit. of the collected pot of money while At this year’s Spring Festival, there Union receives the other half. will be plenty of activities to entertain “On average, we’ve had between 300 everyone in attendance. There will be and 500 cycle through the festival each around 36 booths with arts and crafts year,” Pfitzner said. “We’re hoping that vendors along with other items for sale, it’s catching on and more people than such as wood furniture. A kid’s area will that cycle through this year.” be complete with a bouncy castle and Coupled with being at the Calypso large inflatable slide. Inside the station Art Festival in June and selling building, there will be plenty of cakes Boston butts around Labor Day, the and baked goods on sale. In addition, Spring Festival is key to helping festival attendees will be able to have the Union Volunteer Fire & Rescue breakfast and lunch at the event, with continue operating and aiding the local breakfast sandwiches and barbecue community in times of need. chicken and pork available during lunch As of Monday morning, Pfitzner said for a nominal price. there were still a few booths available Festival-goers can also find exciting for vendors to rent. Anyone interested in live entertainment at the event, with renting one of these spaces can call him guitarist River Dan playing from 11 a.m. at (334)233-9852. to 1 p.m., and the 48th Security Forces The festival opens at 7 a.m. and Squadron from Maxwell Air Force Base will last into the afternoon. There is will give a search and attack working no cost to park or attend the event, dog demonstration. though Pfitzner mentioned that any Perhaps the most interesting event donations would be accepted and greatly at the festival will be the showcasing appreciated. By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
CALL CLASSIFIEDS TODAY•256-277-4219
Police Reports Alexander City Police Department May 15
• John Robert Kennedy, 30, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of controlled substance. • Demarcus Antonio Sandlin, 23, of Goodwater was arrested for drug trafficking, possession of synthetic narcotics, possession marijuana and drug paraphernalia. • James Edward Harris, 61, of Alexander City was arrested for two counts of failure to appear. • Walter James Sanders Jr. of Alexander City was arrested for domestic violence. • Theft was reported in Alexander City. • Theft was reported on Highway 280. • Theft was reported in the 2000 block of Dean Road. • Domestic violence was reported on 3rd Street. • Domestic violence was reported on 1700 block of
Summer Street.
May 14
• Burglary was reported in the 400 block of S Street. • Domestic violence was reported on Green Street. • Domestic violence was reported on Coley Creek Road. • Theft was reported on Highway 280.
May 13
• Jacob Allen Nolin, 29, of Alexander City was arrested for possession controlled substance, possession of marijuana and domestic violence. • Assault third was reported on S Street. • Domestic violence was reported on Dadeville Road.
May 12
• Sykethrius Senal Taylor, 48, of Alexander City was arrested driving under the influence alcohol.
• Rutherford Milo Belyue, 32, of Goodwater was arrested for receiving stolen property. • Criminal mischief was reported in the 800 block of N Street. • Theft was reported on Highway 280. • Domestic violence was reported on Patterson Street. • Harassing communications was reported on Highway 280. • Theft was reported on Highway 280. • Domestic violence was reported on Barrett Road. • Theft was reported on Hillabee Road. • Unlawful breaking and entering was reported on Highway 280.
May 11
• Roshante Tyrone Brown, 37, of Alexander City was arrested for fleeing/attempting to elude law enforcement. • Horace Cedric Benson, 52, of Eclectic was arrested for failure to appear. • Jimmy Wilson McCain, 30, of Alexander City was arrested for reckless endangerment and domestic violence. • Jervarski Montez
Hutchins, 23, of Alexander City was arrested for harassment. • Domestic violence was reported on Mallory Circle.
Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department May 16
• A resident of Lowe Road in Notasulga filed a report for theft of property. • Roderick McNeal of Alexander City was arrested for active violation of community corrections warrant. • Jennifer Woodruff of Alexander City was arrested for an active NWNI warrant. • Brenda Jones of Dadeville was arrested for an active criminal trespass warrant.
May 15
• Shambreal Pitts of Camp Hill was arrested for probation violation.
May 14
• Teresa Handley of Holley Avenue in Camp Hill was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear for possession of a controlled substance.
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May 13
vehicle without insurance, improper tag light, open container, driving while suspended, seven driving while revoked and no drivers license.
May 12
• A resident of Madwind Road in Jacksons Gap filed a report for domestic violence harassment. • A resident of Wayback Road in Dadeville filed a report for assault. • A resident of Gardner Dairy Road filed a report for harassment. • Jessica Hallum of Dadeville was arrested for (3) NWNI. • Joshua Gray of Orange Beach was arrested for a failure to appear child support warrant. • Preston Ammons of Dadeville was arrested for a failure to appear warrant. • William Whaley of Dadeville was arrested for domestic violence assault.
• Marcus McDaniel was arrested for domestic violence third degree. • Colton Burks was arrested for domestic violence third degree. • Glenntavius Edwards of Mallory Circle in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear child support. • James Bailey of Pearson Chapel Road in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear child support. • Sutton Johnson of Highway 280 in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for probation revocation. • A resident of Stillwaters Drive in Dadeville filed a report for criminal mischief. • A resident of Deer Run Lane in New Site filed a report for criminal trespass. • Jason Baker of Heard Street in Tallassee was arrested on twenty two outstanding warrants for failure to appear, DUI, three tinted windows, two speeding, two switched tag, two no seat belt, operating
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May 11
May 9
• Rhonda Price of County Road 79 in Daviston was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear possession of marijuana second degree. • Richard Haddox of Flournoy Road in Dadeville was arrested for domestic violence criminal mischief third degree. • A resident of Silver Hill Road in Dadeville filed a report for theft of property.
May 8
• A resident of Valley Grove Road in Alexander City filed a report for cruelty to animals. • Megan Carlise Hayes of Highway 49 South in Dadeville was arrested on an outstanding warrant for probation violation. • Jason Hayes of Highway 49 in Dadeville was arrested on an outstanding warrant for probation violation. • A resident of Flournoy Road in Dadeville filed a report for domestic violence harassment.
Friday, May 19, 2017
Page 3
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The Outlook
Promotions
continued from page 1
service for as long as he remains Chief of Police in Alexander City. During the ceremony, Rashunsky McKinney was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, Chris Spivey was promoted to Lieutenant, James Orr was promoted to the rank of Captain, and a promotion to the rank of Deputy Chief was given to James Easterwood. Awards were presented following the promotion portion of the ceremony, honoring those who had gone above and beyond the call of duty when situations arose. For his work in apprehending an armed, emotionally disturbed individual, Sergeant Tommy Maness was awarded a Commendation Ribbon. On March 21, a group of officers including Maness, Lt. Chris Spivey, Lt. Tomathon Tuck, Corporal David Sealey and Officer Luke Sivley worked together to subdue an armed, emotionally disturbed individual set on taking his own life. For their actions, these officers were recognized with a Unit Citation. For their combined efforts in working to solve the January 18 murder of
LaDarrell Lamar Hart, the Detective Division of Sgt. William Grant, Cpl. Michael Howell, George Long, Sabrina Osborne, Riley Foshee, Cliff Scott and Sivley and the SRG Team of Cpt. Fred Roth, Sgt. Maness, Cpl. Sealey, Mark Hill, Robert Culligan, Chris Perez, Matthew Channell, Benjamin Whitley and Jamey Johnson were also awarded unit citations. Receiving Appreciation Awards for their assistance with this case were Marcus Osborne and Sam Royster of the Alexander City Housing Authority, as well as Sergeant Fred White and Chad Jones of the Tallapoosa County Narcotics Task Force. Mayor Jim Nabors, Councilman Bobby Tapley and Councilwoman Buffy Colvin were also on hand to deliver a few remarks to the assembled audience. “The badge is a symbol of public faith,” Tapley said, adding that these officers are constantly striving to uphold the lofty ideals of what it means to be a police officer. “Alexander City is a great place because of our police,” Colvin said.
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
The ACPD Detective Division, above, poses for photographs with family after receiving a unit citiation for thier efforts in solving a capital murder case. Below left, ACPD Chief Jay Turner shakes the hand of newly promoted Sergeant Rashunsky McKinney. Below middle, Turner congratulates Captain James Orr on his promotion and below right, Turner congratulates Deputy Chief James Easterwood.
Reptiles
continued from page 1
very often. Of the four venomous kinds of snakes in the country, the most likely one you’ll see is the copperhead,” Tucker said. She showed them the common kinds of patterns one would see on a copperhead and allowed them to hear the rattle of both the timber rattlesnake and the Eastern diamondback rattlesnake. Following their display of all the different snakes, Tucker and Feazell also showed off some of the other reptiles they have at their facility. This included an African spurred tortoise and a Mata-Mata turtle from the Amazon River. “The African spurred tortoise can grow to be the third largest tortoise on Earth and can live for 150 to 200 years,” Tucker said. “The Mata-Mata doesn’t have to worry too much about predators, because it looks just like the bottom of the Amazon River, so other animals will just swim on by and never realize it’s there.” Just before the finale, the two brought out an albino Burmese python, with groups of students chosen to work together and hold the snake for the rest of the school to see. To cap off an exciting afternoon, the students got to meet Sweet Pea, an American alligator. Tucker told the students that these reptiles can grow up to 15 feet long, while
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Stephens Elementary students get to pet the American Alligator named Sweet Pea at Thursday’s show. Below, Mata-Matat Turtle that is found on the floor of the Amazon River.
she and Feazell demonstrated how they can put him to sleep with a gentle lullaby. As the students left the gym, they were allowed to come up and briefly pet Sweet Pea on their way out. “We want to help these students know what to do if they encounter these creatures.” Tucker said. “We’ll be doing a show next week for Alabama Power, talking about this same sort of thing.” “It may help keep them safe, and maybe they can teach others what they’ve learned.”
Concert
on Saturday. The concert will begin at 4 p.m. with a few local acts, who will then be followed by Willie B, Avery, Butler, Jones, with Meadows being the final act of the concert. In getting this event set up, Oliver has been working very closely with Alexander City Parks and Rec Director Sonny Wilson. “Wilson has been on my show, ‘It’s All Good,’ several times and has been great to work with. It’s been almost like a partnership,” Oliver said. Ever since the concert was officially announced, major interest has been building for Saturday’s event, he explained. “It’s been advertised on my show and we got a paid ad on Facebook. That ad has been shared over 150 times and has gotten over 200 likes,” he said. “Everybody I’ve encountered is really excited. I’ve been looking at Facebook comments, and there are people inviting people they know to come.” Based on this, he feels the crowd on Saturday could be in excess of 1,000. To help with the crowd, Oliver said the Alexander City Police Department would be on hand, and transportation to take concertgoers from the parking areas to the walking track, where the musicians are performing, will be available. The gates for the concert open at 1 p.m., with the entertainment scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. on Saturday afternoon. The concert is free to attend, and the public is invited to bring drink coolers, grills and food to cook out. “If everything goes well, the intent is to make this an annual thing,” Oliver said. “We plan on getting bigger acts for this as it goes along.” “I want everybody to come out and have a good time on Saturday,” he added.
Constable in the county, the office of constable provided for in each election precinct pursuant to Chapter 23, Title 36, Code of Alabama 1975, is abolished.” But the Senate’s move to put the measure to a vote of the people will have to be taken up and passed by the House in
continued from page 1
continued from page 1
the last two days of the session to become reality. Sen. Tom Whatley said that amended bill lets the issue be decided by the voters of Tallapoosa County. “We passed with the change that will have it on the ballot on Aug. 15 at the same time that the
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people go to the polls on the U.S Senate race,” Whatley said. “If the people think the positions should be abolished, they can voice their opinion at that time. If they want to keep the positions, the vote will show that. If that happens they will remain and hopefully be used to aid the citizens and the legal system through process service and other duties that fit the scope of the position.” Constable Jerry Whetstone, who spoke
to the House local legislation committee earlier in the session, said the amended version is fair to all involved. “I think amending the bill and putting it before the people is a good thing and makes sense,” Whetstone said. “If the people vote and that’s what they want, we are fine with that. We just didn’t think that it was fair to allow a handful of people make that decision for the entire county.”
The Tallapoosa County Commissioners voted in January to ask the legislature to enact a bill to abolish the county’s 16 constable positions after the idea was presented by resident John Prophitt. The commissioners voted 4-0-1, with Commissioner John McKelvey abstaining, to approve asking the legislature for the bill. Among the discussion items were a lack of training, liability issues and past issues involving
some constables. A total of 43 other Alabama counties have already moved to abolish the constable positions. James Burkhalter, who heads the Tallapoosa County Constable Association, said the association has addressed the concerns and has been working to obtain training for its members. He said they were willing to do anything that was necessary, adding that the positions do not cost the county anything.
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EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
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Outlook The
Quality time is hard to define A note of thanks W Opinion
Our View
to Harriett Scott
G
overnment is a creature of change and if you need proof, look to Washington where change of power has created all sorts of angst and issues that Americans are trying to absorb. The same is true on the local level. Voters go to the polls and elect leaders from all walks of life, most of which have little if any governmental training. In city government, that means employees have to be the constant. They have to be sure that the processes that are in place are followed and legal requirements are met while elected official feel their way through it until they become better versed on exactly how things work. For many years the person who was that rudder was longtime City Clerk Harriett Scott. She served on the staff of the clerk’s office for 32 years, the last seven years heading that department. Earlier this year it was announced that Miss Harriett would retire and at the end of May she will end her career as a city servant. Scott was recognized Tuesday at a city hall luncheon where those who worked with her praised her for her dedication, loyalty and tireless effort to make Alexander City the best it could be. Miss Harriett trained many a council member, mayor and department head in her time in office. She also trained several of our staff here at the Outlook as reporters and editors came and went. She took the time to make sure that people understood how things were done, why they were done and worked hard to make sure everyone, including city residents, had what they needed. Former City Council President Jim Spann may have said it best. “Mayors, they come and they go,” Spann said. “Councils they come and go, too. But when the rubber meets the road, the things that steady the ride are the people. We’ve been blessed in Alexander City to have some very good people employed by the city. But there were few that were more dedicated than Harriett Scott.” As a newspaper, we thank Harriett Scott for her service and her tireless effort to make sure that our city’s affairs were handled legally, openly and with honesty. Good luck and Godspeed in the next chapter in your life. You will be missed at city hall.
Know Your
Officials Communication with elected officials is the key to good government. To let your most local representatives know how you feel about state or local matters, contact any of the following.
Governor Kay Ivey represents the state of Alabama and its 67 counties. She was sworn in to office on April 10, 2017 and can be reached at 334242-7100. Her office is located at the State Capitol at 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama.
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.
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.
ell, I can tell that my wife is feeling better since her recent sickness. She announced that just the two of us were going to spend a day on the lake. All of this has something to do with bonding and reconnecting. When she talks like this I know she is reading too many of those women’s magazines while recuperating. Before all of this is over I’ll probably have to fill out one of those love compatible surveys from the back page. Ugh! Anyway, this edict of a day on the lake came with the unspoken understanding that I was responsible for getting the boat ready, immediately. So I got up early and washed the boat, cleaned the seats, fueled the tanks and made sure everything was ship shape and shiny. For a man alone it would be a simple matter of just getting on board and cruising around the lake. However, with my sweet wife a day on the lake requires almost as much logistical effort as moving the Eighth Army through Europe. I loaded about 2 gallons of water, enough ice to build an igloo, food for 47 people and their relatives, plus the assorted plates, napkins and utensils needed for all of this. After loading what she called “our lunch and a few snacks” I started in on the 15 towels, one quart of
Isn’t it funny how we work so hard to have free time to enjoy our families and then add extra luggage to hinder it? Relationships are based on DR. GERALD love, trust and commitment. HALLMARK Everything else is just the Columnist window dressing we use to sunscreen, a deck chair, an make these things stand out. umbrella and enough insect Spending time with those repellent to fog Montgomery. we love should be enough in The quartermaster on the itself. It truly is that “quality Titanic had an easier job time” that we hear so much loading than I did. I barely about. had enough room to include Your heavenly Father the life jackets, and I kept wants to spend time with you mine close. and He doesn’t want all the Normally a 24-foot pontoon baggage of rites and rituals boat will sit about 18” out of to get in the way. He wants a the water. My poor old boat two-way, personal relationship was so laden that the water that blesses us. How much was up to the bottom of the time have you spent with platform. Every time I crossed God’s family lately? another boat’s wake I had Well, we had a nice day water wash across the deck. on the lake in spite of the The Titanic was becoming Water Patrol’s ticket for being an apt analogy with every overloaded, the sunburn passing boat and my life (real men don’t wear sun tan jacket was becoming my best lotion), indigestion from all friend. the food and then running Of course, my sweet wife aground. The good thing is was oblivious to this peril. the salvage crew assures me She was now lathered up they can raise my boat before in sunscreen, wrapped in a the Fourth of July. In the towel, lying in her deck chair meantime I have to go take with a sombrero looking hat a love compatible test. This over her face so she wouldn’t could be ugly, where’s my life sun burn. I thought about jacket? making a smart remark about the fact that she couldn’t even Gerald Hallmark is a see the lake, muchless, enjoy retired minister who lives in it. Knowing that discretion is Alexander City and a regular the greater part of valor, and columnist for The Outlook. that I hadn’t yet passed the His column appears every love compatible survey, I just Friday in this space. passed on it.
Friday, May 19, 2017
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“Problems are not the problem; coping is the problem.” – Virginia Satir
Today’s
Scripture “I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.” – Philippians 1:19
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Star Wars turns 40: nostalgia and worries
“S
eemingly yesterday, at a location just a couple of miles from my current home…” For me, that seems more appropriate than “Long ago in a galaxy far, far away” as I think about May 25 and the 40th anniversary of the debut of the first “Star Wars” movie. I’ll always treasure memories of my late father taking me to see the film at the Hi-Way 50 Drive-In in Lewisburg, Tennessee in the late spring of 1977. I was blown away by the scope of the movie and couldn’t imagine how the rumored sequel could be any more spectacular. Little did I know that in 2017, with CGI and other such special effects wizardry, even a low-rent local divorce lawyer could create an equally impressive commercial. (“Here’s your former mother-in-law in full Storm Trooper regalia. And this is how we’ll taunt your ex with a hologram of an alimony check…”) Little did I know while watching lovable droids C-3PO and R2-D2 upstage the human actors, that 40 years later, electronic devices would still have the upper hand. (“Put down that tablet and talk to me, young lady. Hey, you’re not my daughter! Why did you follow me home from the mall??? Where’s my Find Your Real Children app?”)
Will Han Solo’s Millennium Falcon spawn the Millennial Falcon, which gets parked in your parents’ basement? Will Bill O’Reilly try to DANNY TYREE expand his “Killing” empire Columnist by co-writing “Killing The I’m proud that I read the Death Star”? (“If you’re Marvel Comics adaptation of going to steal the plans “A New Hope” when it first for the Empire’s worldcame out and that I absorbed destroying space station, a ton of spinoff series review you’ll have to smuggle them copies when Dark Horse out in your bra. Here, let me Comics had the publishing help you…”) license. I’m proud that my Will torch-brandishing son eagerly awaits episodes protesters accuse the movie of Disney’s “Star Wars producers of editing Robert Rebels” animated series. But E. Lee and Jefferson Davis over the past four decades out of the scenes of the there have been so many Rebellion? hundreds of comics, novels Whatever discomforting and video games that I have developments may be on to wonder about anyone who the horizon, I take joy that has sat through them all. As George Lucas is getting to Darth Vader might say, “The see the final chapters of his cholesterol is strong with this 9-part saga coming to fruition one.” after all these years. This year’s milestone for It’s not often that one gets the Star Wars universe is to see a plan come together bittersweet for fans, what after four decades and come with the patricide scene in together so beautifully. Episode VII and the recent (“Well, I had to wait for death of actress Carrie Fisher. you to go through divorce What other things can sully once and widowhood twice, our memories of the Star but now you’re all mine, Wars battle of good versus Lucretia. Whoa! Are those evil? varicose veins or rubble from Will some entrepreneur the battle of Endor? Rub develop Fitbits for AT-AT your bunions? The Groom Walkers? Awakens –and hopes it’s all a Will a trendy salon start a nightmare!”) fad of waxing for Wookies? Will “come over to Danny welcomes email the Dark Side” become a responses at tyreetyrades@ slogan for all those cursed aol.com and visits to his newfangled fluorescent Facebook fan page “Tyree’s bulbs? Tyrades.”
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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Friday, May 19, 2017
Celebration
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Day on Friday, all our residents will get to wear their favorite team gear and eat hot dogs and nachos while watching the staff have a wiffle ball game in the yard.” “Our big event for this week will be having Kona Ice here this afternoon,” Chapman Admissions Coordinator April Turner said on Wednesday morning. Young, Lee and Turner all agreed that this week was a special time for the residents and staff at their respective facilities, a chance to break from the norm and partake in exciting events to celebrate themselves and those around them. “It means a lot to them and makes them feel appreciated,” Turner said. “It means a lot to us too, giving us the chance to spend quality time with the residents.” “The staff feels it’s a great time to show the residents they care. Cliff Williams / The Outlook They are working, but Alex City Methodist Church Pastor Wayne Cowhick, above, dances with Brown’s Nursing Home resident Gloria Slaughter following Slaughter’s interview. Cowhick was a judge get to have a little fun and some gave him a gentle rub about being bribed as Slaughter was named Ms. Brown’s Nursing Home. Below left, Aubie poses with Adam’s Nursing Home resident and doing so,” Young said. Alabama fan Louise Reeves. Below right, Aubie surprises another Alabama fan at Adam’s. Bottom right, Myra Goss walks out to cheers from family in the Brown’s pageant. “We look forward to this week every year and getting to be creative with it,” Lee said. “We work hard to create a pleasant and fun environment. Our residents get very excited and we get a lot of positive feedback.” Whether it’s a visit from Elvis, a pageant for the residents or a free snow cone, the various events at these facilities to celebrate National Nursing Home Week all have the same goal in mind: giving the residents and staff a chance to change up their routine just a bit and enjoy activities meant not only to entertain them, but also show them how appreciated and valued they are.
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GIFTS & MORE Monogramming onogramming Boutique outique CClothing lothing Submitted / The Outlook Jewelry ewelry Brown Nursing and Rehab recently awarded Mrs. Christy Peoples “2017 Nurse of the Year”. Peoples is a Bathing athing SSuits uits Registered Nurse employed with Brown since 2015. She is over Infection Control and Staff Development. & More More 10147 County Road 34 Dadeville, AL
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She also serves as RN Supervisor. She is dedicated to the ongoing care of the residents and training of staff of Brown. Candi Tate, RN, Assistant Director of Nursing said “Christy is one of the best nurses that I’ve ever worked with. We work side-by-side each day. She is always willing to jump in there and help anybody, while keeping such a positive attitude. She is most deserving of this award and I couldn’t be happier for her!” May 20
Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy 2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
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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 on 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 and descendants of former members are cordially invited to attend this service. Darien Church is located five miles west 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 22-23
PIANO RECITAL: Sandra Stark will present her piano students in recital Monday, May 22 and Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Faith Temple. The Monday recital is the Senior Recital and will feature: Mr. Buck King, Ms. Teresa Ray, Mrs. Aubrey Champion, Monique Woolfolk, Karianne Cheatham, Michael Richardson, Garrett Richardson, Christina Zou, Julio Martinez, Eli Billingsley, Valerie Tauro, Shelby Bloodworth, and graduating seniors Erica Patterson and Cambron Bice. The Tuesday recital is the Junior Recital and will feature: Ayden Miller, Seraphina Bishop, Alyssa Channell, Lolly Dye, Grace Peters, Kate Kohls, Mackenzie Deas, Kadie Stark, Chloe Jackson, Janya Smith, Hogan Chappell, Noah Long, Brian Thompson, Annie Zhang, Anna Claire Stark, Campbell Thomas, Carolina Fisher, Riley Jackson, Murphy Spurlin, and Serenity Smith. The public is invited.
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 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.
May 31 - June 2
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: New Salem Baptist Church is hosting Vacation Bible School May 31 -June 2 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
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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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June 2
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 an 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.
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 334-324-9383 or email cat221@msn.com to reserve your spot.
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LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
sports@alexcityoutlook.com
Friday, May 19, 2017
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Page 9
Disappointment in the ‘Gump Generals have strong run despite loss By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
If nothing else, Horseshoe Bend should be proud of everything it accomplished this softball season. The Generals have had to settle for second in the area tournament and in regionals, and on Thursday, their state run came to an end when they took third at the AHSAA Class 2A championships. Despite the 8-2 and 11-1 losses to Hatton and G.W. Long, respectively, third place in the state is still pretty impressive. “As much as I hate to say it, it’s been a long season and we fought hard to get here,” Generals ace Kynsley Blasingame said. “I wish it would’ve end differently, yeah, but we still accomplished a lot this season, so there’s nothing to hang our heads about.” From the regional tournament all the way to Montgomery, the Generals seemed to be the underdog. As rightfielder Hannah Adcock put it, “We like to give three heart attacks before we come back.” They’ve shown a nevergive-up attitude that allowed them to comeback in a handful of games over the course of their playoff run. “Our seniors are really great leaders and they’ve always pushed us this whole year to never give up, to keep trying no matter what,” Adcock said. “Because no matter what inning you’re in, you can come back and we’ve all learned that. I give all the credit to our seniors because they’ve been wonderful leaders this whole year.” And the good news for the Generals is they’re losing only three seniors, just two of whom are starters. Although they’ll have to replace the likes of ace pitcher Blasingame and workhorse catcher Taylor Walton, as well as Brooke Robinson off the bench, there’s many returning which should bode well for the future. “Next year, we’ll have a new pitcher coming in of course because Kynlsey Rae is leaving,” Adcock said, “but I think she’s gonna get out and do her best, and hopefully we’ll end up back here.” Although the emotion was clear on the faces of all the Generals after their elimination loss against G.W. Long, coach David Caldwell is confident they’ll soon understand their achievements. See THIRD • Page 10
Lizi Arbogat / The Outlook
Horseshoe Bend’s Cheyanna Howard attempts to make a play at second base against Hannah Brady, of G.W. Long, who is called safe. The Generals were defeated, 11-1. Below, Horseshoe Bend first baseman Ivy Vickers stretches out to make a play against Emma Latham, of Hatton, during the winners’ bracket final of the AHSAA Class 2A softball championships on Friday. The Hornets won, 8-2.
Horseshoe Bend settles for third at state By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
It was not a good day to have a bad day. But that’s exactly what happened to Horseshoe Bend on Thursday in the AHSAA Class 2A Softball State Championships. Heading into Thursday, the Generals had all the momentum on their side after coming off two comefrom-behind victories Wednesday, but nothing seemed to go their way in a pair of losses that eliminated them from contention. In the winners’ bracket final, Horseshoe Bend couldn’t generate a lick of offense. Despite drawing 10 walks, the Generals didn’t get a hit all game and were defeated 8-2 by Hatton. Defense was the problem in the See GENERALS • Page 10
Study affirms Alabama’s Forever Wild Land Trust impact A
labama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources When it comes to return on investment, very few programs can match the success of Alabama’s Forever Wild Land Trust. Forever Wild was established in 1992 as a vehicle to preserve and protect important ecological and recreational tracts of land in the state. Voters approved the constitutional amendment that established Forever Wild with an overwhelming 84 percent approval. Two years later, Forever Wild closed on its first parcel of land, and now the program owns 195,000 acres and has an additional 60,000 acres under long-term lease agreements. Forever Wild funding comes from interest earnings generated by oil and gas production royalties paid to the state and is capped at $15 million annually. Doug Deaton of the Alabama State Lands Division, which administers the program for the Forever Wild Land Trust Board, said funding to date for the current fiscal year is about $14 million. When Forever Wild came up for renewal for another 20 years in 2012, the program maintained widespread support and passed with 75 percent of the vote. Despite the public support, there have been attempts to
attacks in recent years on public lands. So we had an idea there would be continued threats to Forever Wild, and we wanted to bring the numbers into the DAVID RAINER conversation.” Columnist Herrington said the divert some of the Forever economic study showed Wild funding, and concerned that for every $1 invested conservation groups decided in public land through the to sponsor a return-onForever Wild Land Trust, investment study to show $5 is returned in goods and how Forever Wild benefits services to the state. the state in ways more The economic analysis, than the intrinsic values of a return-on-investment preserving sensitive habitat study, focused on fee simple or providing public recreation purchases made by Forever opportunities. Wild using state dollars. At last week’s Forever Public lands purchased Wild Land Trust Board through partnerships with meeting in Spanish Fort, federal grant programs, Tammy Herrington, Executive conservation organizations Director of Conservation or private landowners were Alabama, took her turn not included to purposely during the public comment highlight the benefits of portion of the meeting to Alabama’s direct investment remind those in attendance in land conservation through of the enormous impact of Forever Wild. Forever Wild and outdoors recreation on Alabama’s Herrington said the economy. economic study verified what “We partnered with The the study sponsors expected Trust for Public Land, The from setting aside land for Nature Conservancy and public access and recreational others to do an economic use. impact study to show the “We feel it’s a conservative economic value of the estimate to what public lands program so we would have bring to the state,” she said. the information when we “We focused just on Forever were talking with legislators Wild land. When you look at and voters about the actual some of the ways the program benefits the program does is able to leverage funds from bring to the state,” Herrington federal, private and nonprofit said. “There have been sources, it adds to the value.
“So we think it brings more economic benefits than can even be quantified through this economic report.” The report showed that tourists and residents spend $7.5 billion annually on outdoor recreation, which generates $494 million in tax revenues and supports 86,000 jobs and $2 billion in wages in Alabama. One of the most geographically and ecologically diverse states in the nation, Alabama’s habitat includes mountains, coastal beaches, grassland plains, forests, farmland and abundant water resources in the drainages of the Tombigbee, Tennessee and Alabama river systems. “In addition to those concrete numbers about the economy, you have stories in local communities about how they were able to take Forever Wild lands and were able to market them to bring in people for recreational opportunities, like hunting and other outdoors activities, to their areas,” Herrington said. “Those stories are all very interesting to me. “Not only are you looking at what happens in economic impact, you’re able to look at places like Anniston, which took their Forever Wild land and built a biking community around it. You’ve got bicyclers from all over going to Anniston for their great
mountain biking.” The area near Anniston that Herrington referred to is the Doug Ghee Nature Preserve and Recreation Area, which is comprised of four Forever Wild acquisitions on Coldwater Mountain. Named for the former Alabama legislator and Forever Wild board member, the 4,180-acre tract of mountainous forest is a combination of hardwoods and pines. A total of 35 miles of bike trails, ranging from beginner level to expert, have been constructed on Coldwater Mountain. The trail system attracts riders from all over the U.S. and has become a mecca for mountain bikers in the Southeast. Forever Wild’s Coldwater Mountain tract has been recognized by the International Mountain Biking Association as a Bronze-Level Ride Center, one of only 37 in the world. Forever Wild has been used to purchase land in the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, Little River Canyon, Sipsey River Complex, Cathedral Caverns, Ruffner Mountain, Weeks Bay Reserve, Splinter Hill Bog and the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, to name only a few. Additions to numerous Wildlife Management Areas were created through Forever Wild purchases, as well as additions to the Alabama State Parks System. See FOREVER WILD • Page 10
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Third
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“They showed resiliency, they don’t ever give up and they grew a lot as the year went on as far as learning how to play together,” Caldwell said. “It’s rough today because this was some of them’s last game ever, so there were some raw emotions. But on the ride home and over the weekend, they’ll gather all their feelings back together and realize what a great accomplishment it was for the team that we had to make it this far. “There’s 50-some odd teams in 2A, and we finished third in the state, so that’s still pretty good.”
Forever Wild
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Lizi Arbogat / The Outlook
Horseshoe Bend’s Sydnie Catrett, above, attempts to take second against Hannah Payne, of G.W. Long, during Friday’s losers’ bracket final. Horseshoe Bend’s Hannah Adcock makes a throw from leftfield during the winners’ bracket final of the AHSAA Class 2A softball championships against Hatton. The Hornets won, 8-2.
must-win game against G.W. Long, which ousted the Generals, 11-1 in just five innings. “That first game really set the tone and we couldn’t recover from it,” Horseshoe Bend coach David Caldwell said. “But we went down fighting. That’s what I told them afterward is that we got here and represented well, but it just wasn’t our day.” In the opening game, the Hornets proved just why they were the eventual 2A champions. After one out in the top of the first, Hatton immediately started generating offense. A two-run double from Laney Jeffreys and a onerun single by Ashley Berryman put the Generals down 3-0 early, and they never redeemed themselves. Hatton had another big inning in the fifth when a pair of errors and two-out triple from Olivia Sarley helped extend the lead to 6-0. Although Horseshoe Bend eventually scored a pair of runs, they came on a passed ball and a bases-loaded walk. The Generals left a total of eight stranded and could never quite get the big hit they needed. Despite the no-hitter for
Hatton, the trio of Hornet pitchers combined for 11 walks, and still the Generals couldn’t capitalize. “I think we became complacent, and we didn’t take advantage of the opportunities that were given to us,” Horseshoe Bend senior Kynsley Blasingame said. In the fifth inning, Sydnie Catrett and Leighann McWhorter led off with a pair of walks, and they were both moved to scoring position on a groundout from Danielle Mitchelle. Catrett used her speed to score on a passed ball. But Hatton immediately seized the momentum right back and put the game out of reach for good in the sixth. Berryman added another RBI single, and an error cost the Generals another run. Those late miscues seemed to carry over into the losers’ bracket final against G.W. Long. After a fantastic start from the Generals, nothing seemed to go their way. In the first inning, Blasingame got things started with a two-out double and Ivy Vickers plated courtesy runner Brooke Robinson with a single. But things went from good to bad quickly, as G.W. Long
Rainer is employed by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. He writes a weekly column titled Outdoor Alabama Weekly.
2017 AHSAA Baseball Playoffs CLASS 1A Championship
immediately took the lead with a pair of runs in the home half of the frame. Of the 11 runs the Rebels scored, only six were earned. “I’ve seen us play so much better than what we did today,” Horseshoe Bend rightfielder Hannah Adcock said. “I really know that our team is better. I don’t know if we showed up with the wrong attitudes or didn’t want to win it bad enough, but it just kept going
downhill. Once one bad thing happened, it kept on.” In addition to the defensive woes, the Generals managed only two hits all day. “When you do that, you’re not going to win too many games and we know that,” Caldwell said. “Some of that was good pitching, but some of it wasn’t. We just gotta keep working for next year, so this was a great springboard to go into next year.”
Dylan Moncus closes out season at state “We are very proud of Dylan and his accomplishments and look to build on this for next After a successful run at the year,” BRHS coach Wes Tate sub-state tournament, Benjamin said. Russell’s Dylan Moncus closed out the golf season on Monday YOUTH SPORTS and Tuesday at the AHSAA Class Youth football camps 6A state tournament. coming to Alex City The tournament was held at Alexander City will play host the Robert Trent Jones Grand to a pair of Bridge Builders youth National Golf Course in Opelika. football camps in July. Moncus carded a 78 on Monday The camps are open to players and did himself even better on in first through eighth grade and Tuesday with a 76 for a two-day will be held July 8 and 29 at the total of 154. Sportsplex. Registration begins By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
“I think that’s what people don’t understand,” Herrington said. “Our organization, Conservation Alabama Foundation, is focused on nature but also how people interact with nature. It’s not just to protect the wildlife for nature’s sake, it’s really about how citizens of this state interact with the land and what intrinsic value that brings to us as people. That’s why we do this work. Looking at public lands and these communities that benefit from Forever Wild lands, local leaders and citizens want to take advantage of them personally but also bring tourism opportunities into their community.”
at 7:30 am. each day, and the camps will be from 8 a.m. to noon. The cost is $10. Each camp will feature a special guest, who will be announced in the coming weeks. For more information, contact Hudson Hinton at 256-750-1140 or Tommie Kelly at 256-7860542.
camp. All school age groups are welcome, and the club boasts “everything you need to get in shape for your favorite sport or activity.” Activities that will be offered are cheerleading, band, baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball, track and tennis. The club will take place at 5:30 p.m. every Monday and Tuesday from June 12 to July 31 and will Dadeville to host 2nd be held at the school playground. annual training camp For more information, please This summer, Dadeville contact coach Michael Taylor at Elementary School will once again play host to its free training 334-549-2337.
Monday’s result Sweet Water 4, Decatur Heritage 2 Tuesday’s results Decatur Heritage 2, Sweet Water 1 Sweet Water 8, Decatur Heritage 7
CLASS 2A Championship
0 0
Tuesday’s result G.W. Long 5, Fayetteville Wednesday’s result G.W. Long 8, Fayetteville
CLASS 3A Championship
Gordon 9, Piedmont 0 Gordon 9, Piedmont 2 Semifinal results Gordo 4-2-5, American Christian 3-8-2; Gordo (338) wins series, 2-1 Piedmont 4-2, Colbert Heights 2-1; Piedmont (2712) wins series, 2-0
CLASS 4A
Championship results UMS-Wright 5, Madison Academy 1 Madison Academy 9, UMS-Wright 1 UMS-Wright 5, Madison Academy 1
CLASS 5A
Championship results Russellville 9, Faith Academy 1 Faith Academy 9, Russellville 7 Russellville 7, Faith Academy 4
CLASS 6A Championship
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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
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 Paterson Field, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., if necessary