SPORTS, PAGE 10
OPINION: IT‘S TIME TO REOPEN DRIVERS LICENSE OFFICES, PAGE 4.
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Lighting the way for Alexander City
BRHS aims to control playoff fate in Wetumpka
& Lake Martin since 1892
October 21, 2016 Vol. 124, No. 212 www.alexcityoutlook.com
McDaniel faces bond revocation By MITCH SNEED Editor
Accused killer Matthew Clate McDaniel is facing the possibility of remaining in the Tallapoosa County Jail until his murder trial following a September arrest in Auburn on criminal mischief charges. McDaniel is charged with murder in the Jan. 17 shooting death of Norman Dean Crayton, but has been out on a $250,000 bond pending trial. Due to the new charges, the state has requested
bond revocation and a hearing is set next Wednesday, Oct. 26 before Judge Kim Taylor in Dadeville. According to court records, McDaniel was arrested by the Auburn Police Department for third-degree criminal mischief after a Sept. 19 incident where McDaniel was allegedly recorded on video surveillance on foot approaching the entrance of a city parking deck in Auburn. According to the bond revocation motion, McDaniel was captured on video bending the deck’s gate arm
ment and made harassing remarks to her. Through a photo line-up she identified the subject as McDaniel.” Attempts to reach representatives from the district attorney’s office or McDaniel’s defense attorney Davis Whittelsey were unsuccessful Thursday. McDaniel was arrested in the early morning hours of Jan. 17 after hunters found Crayton’s body in a wooded area off Barron’s Bridge Road south of Dadeville. Tallapoosa County Sheriff
around a concrete column and walking away. The damage made the gate inoperable, according to the motion. Video surveillance also depicts a truck with a license plate that matches that of a vehicle owned by McDaniel, according to court records. In addition to that incident, McDaniel is also identified as a suspect in a harassment case earlier the same date in Auburn. Records indicate “a female made a report that an unknown white male approached her at her place of employ-
See MCDANIEL • Page 3
City’s leaders reflect on their term
Alex City Kiwanis honors Kiwanian of the Year By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
The Alexander City Kiwanis Club named Matt Haines Kiwanian of the year and welcomed a new slate of officers for the coming year. “It is so hard to pick just one person for Kiwanian of the Year,” outgoing Alexander City Kiwanis president T.J. Moore said. “Everyone in this club is so active. But there was one person who took over one of our major fundraisers and did an excellent job. He kept it completely organized and has agreed to be vice president this year. Matt Haines is Kiwanian of the Year.” In addition to naming Kiwanian of the Year, a new slate of officers were welcomed. Marvin Wagoner is president, See KIWANIS • Page 3
By MITCH SNEED Editor
in his former profession, including the officers of the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s office where he held a training session on Thursday. “The top two or three things we want to teach these officers are understanding autism and the best ways to keep the citizen with autism and the officers safe,” said Chandler. “We want to raise their level of understanding and how to have better
In just 17 days, Alexander City will see a new mayor and five new city council members sworn into office after an election where District 1’s Bobby Tapley was the only current council member to retain his seat. Monday marked the last regular meeting scheduled for the current group of leaders and as the meeting drew to a close, those who have served the last four years were thanked for their service and reflected on their term in office. Tommy Spraggins, who will be sworn in as District 5 representative on the council on Nov. 7, addressed the current council and mayor on behalf of the new council members. “On behalf of the newlyelected city officials, we would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation for your service to the people of Alexander City,” Spraggins
See AUTISM • Page 3
See COUNCIL • Page 3
David Granger / The Outlook
Dustin Chandler (far left), president of Interaction Advisory Group, chats with autism self-advocates Michael (second from left) and Robert (far right) and Tallapoosa County Sheriff Jimmy Abbett during a break in the autism training Chandler provided TCSO officers Thursday.
AUTISM TRAINING Chandler fights Autism stigma in law enforcement By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Matt Haines is congratulated by Alex City Kiwanis President T.J. Moore after being named Kiwanian of the Year.
County 9-1-1 Center receives CVRCDC grant
Today’s
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70 43 High
Dustin Chandler spent nearly a decade in law enforcement, most of it fighting narcotics. Then his daughter was born. And his life’s purpose changed. Today, instead of fighting marijuana, methamphetamine or cocaine, Chandler is fighting ignorance and misunderstanding of autism, from which his daughter suffers. An he’s fighting it especially among those
Low
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Lake Martin
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All 13 of the volunteer fire departments in Tallapoosa County can once again talk to each other via radio thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Coosa Valley Resource Conservation and Development Council (CVRCDC). “Prior to this grant, we had four departments that could not talk to the rest of the county departments because they were on the old radios,” Tallapoosa County 911 Board Member Danny Lloyd said. “Now they have digital radios and can talk to everyone.” One might ask why should one department be able to talk to another? State Representative Mark Tuggle mentioned the efforts of many departments during the 2011 tornadoes and how critical
8
See GRANT • Page 3
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Volunteer firefighters join Mark Tuggle and Terry Evans as the Coosa Valley Resource Conservation and Development Council awards a grant to the Tallapoosa County 9-1-1 Board for communication equipment.
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Family never learns to let up on criticism of career choice
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Directory David Granger Staff Writer, Ext. 210 david.granger@alexcityoutlook.com
Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com
Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Donna Jones Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 donna.jones@alexcityoutlook.com Jaylan Reynolds Advertising Sales, Ext. 232 jaylan.reynolds@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Advertising Sales, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@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 Accounting Angela Mullins Bookkeeping, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Mary Lyman Boone Bookkeeping marylyman.boone@alexcityoutlook.com
DEAR ABBY: I grew up the third of four children. Both my older brothers chose to go into engineering (the field my father is in). I rocked the boat and opted to go into education. All during college and after, my parents continued to tell me I had chosen the wrong career and would never have any money. Ten years later, I’m still getting constant comments about my career choice and financial status. They make little jabs like, “... but we know you can’t afford it,” and, “Is this too expensive for you?” which echo at family gatherings to the point that neither my husband nor I want to be there. We both work hard and, while we might struggle, we never ask for financial assistance. How can I get my family to stop these comments? They’re hurtful. -- EDUCATOR IN THE MIDWEST DEAR EDUCATOR: You are being picked on not only because of your career choice and its salary level, but also the
DEAR ABBY Advice
fact that you didn’t fall into line as your siblings did and do what your parents wanted. Much as we might wish to, we cannot dictate the behavior of others. If you have told your family their comments bother you and they persist, you will have to focus on the importance of the field you chose and the contribution to society you are making. And attend those family gatherings less often. DEAR ABBY: “Lonely Widow in Ft. Myers, Fla.” (May 16) asked why friends ignore a woman when she becomes a widow. I experienced the same thing when I was widowed at 50. There are several reasons
why friends drop you when your spouse dies. One is fear of their own mortality. Another is perhaps the husband (or wife) was the social one. Or the women are afraid you are going to steal their husband. I was hurt at first, but then I realized they were not true friends. I now have new friends who are widowed, divorced or married, and I’m enjoying every minute we share. -- JOY IN NEVADA DEAR JOY: I am glad for you. Many readers wrote to share their experiences and their thoughts on that letter. Some suggested that friends may not invite the woman because they don’t want her to feel like a “third wheel,” but advised “Lonely” to speak up and tell them that, indeed, she WOULD like to be included. Others thought people assume a widow is emotionally needy, so they don’t want to be involved with her. Some readers also wondered how often “Lonely” and
her husband had invited single women to join them for a meal, weekend outing or evening event while he was still alive. The answer to that question could provide insight. A majority of those who wrote agreed with me that it’s important that “Lonely” cultivate new interests, and along with them, new friends. One reader’s church formed a group for widows that includes monthly lunch outings at different restaurants. Another suggested that “Lonely’s” senior center friends should start inviting each other out for various entertainment options. She should also be encouraged to meet people in different locations, or even consider moving for a fresh start. 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 Audra Spears Composing Department, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Alethia Russell Graphic Artist, Ext. 231 alethia.russell@alexcityoutlook.com
Newsroom Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Lonna Upton Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 lonna.upton@alexcityoutlook.com Cathy Higgins Sports Editor, Ext. 228 cathy.higgins@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com
Circulation Linda Ewing Asst. Circulation Manager, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) Kenneth Boone The Outlook is published five times Photography and a week, Tuesday through Saturday a commercial web mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, printing press. Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.
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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.
© 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
Obituaries Mrs. Geraldyne Catchings 1928 - 2016 Funeral Service for Mrs. Geraldyne Catchings, 88, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Saturday, October 22, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Liberty Baptist Church. Rev. Jeremy Johnson and Rev. Chris Stephens will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Friday, October 21, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. Mrs. Catchings passed away on Wednesday, October 19, 2016 at Chapman Healthcare Center. She was born on August 24, 1928 in Tallapoosa County, Alabama to William Norman Gardner and Hendon Gardner. She was an active member of Liberty Baptist Church. Mrs. Catchings loved her family dearly and enjoyed spending time with them. She enjoyed growing flowers, sewing and made each of her family mem-
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Alex City’s new council visits Kiwanis The Alexander City Kiwanis Club welcomed the newly elected officials for the city to Thursday’s meeting. Pictured from left are: Newly elected mayor Jim Nabors, Tommy Spraggins of District 5, Eric Brown of District 4, Bobby Tapley of District 1, Tim Funderburk of District 6 Buffy Colvin of District 2 and Scott Hardy of District 3.
bers crocheted Afghans. She taught Sunday school most of her adult life. She is survived by her husband of 71 years, A.J. Catchings of Alexander City; son, Raymond J. Catchings (Debbie) of Alexander City; grandchildren, Deryck Hodge (Wendy), Richael Durdin (Michael), Elizabeth Rondeau (Matthew), Andrea Long (Andrew) and ten great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Gwendolyn Hodge; parents; sisters, Audyce Moore, Gene Sasser and brother, William “Bill” Norman Gardner, Jr. The family will accept flowers or memorial contributions may be made to the Liberty Baptist Church, 1365 Hillabee Street, Alexander City, AL, 35010. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome.com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrange-
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Funeral service for Mrs. Elizabeth J. Laney of Alexander City, Alabama will be Saturday, October 22, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at Miracle Baptist Church. Burial will follow at New Life Memorial Gardens. Wrights Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Mr. William Lloyd Lancaster Jr. 1929 - 2016 Visitation for Mr. William Lloyd Lancaster Jr., 87, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Saturday, October 22, 2016 at Radney Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. Mr. Lancaster passed away, in his sleep, on Thursday, October 20, 2016 at his residence. He was born on August 22, 1929 in Wetumpka, Alabama to William Lloyd Lancaster and Janie Lancaster. He was a member of First Methodist Church of Wetumpka. Mr. Lancaster started his love of flight at the age of 14. From there he became a flight instructor for the United States Navy; he commanded a squadron of fighter pilots that specialized in night operations from an aircraft carrier. He served in the Korean War and during the Vietnam era. He was an avid sailor, lover of the written word, classical music and the opera. Mr. Lancaster was a very kind and gentle man who was loved by all. He is survived by his son, William Lloyd Lancaster III of Alexander City; daughter in law, Gina Lancaster and grandson William “Will” Lancaster IV. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome.com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
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Autism
continued from page 1
interactions with people with autism. As we’ve always said, citizen safety and officer safety are our number one goal. Certain challenges of autism present different challenges to the officers and they need to learn how to manage those, not only for safety purposes, but also for fair treatment.” Tallapoosa County Sheriff Jimmy Abbett said the training should make his officers better equipped to recognize and deal with autistic persons. “We’re trying to give our officers additional training that corresponds with different things that we have going on in our community and one is autism. “We wanted them to learn about the characteristics of autistic persons, communication with them and de-escalation. We just feel like that type of training is very important in case the situation arises.”Chandler started with a few simple things. The autism community is fairly open about the spectrum disorder and often times all it takes to understand that you may encounter an autistic person is to look for a puzzle piece. The near-universal symbol for autism awareness is particularly common on magnets and specialty tags that often adorn vehicles. “If you’re like me, you’re going to look at these things to help you assess the situation before you ever turn on your blue lights,” Chandler said. “That puzzle piece is a pretty good indication that someone with autism may be in the vehicle.” Chandler also asked Robert, one of two autism self-advocates at the training to step forward. Around Robert’s neck was a card, issued by the Alabama Department of Public Health, which informs anyone he comes in contact with, including police officers, of his condition, some of his possible limitations and potential reactions. “Right away, you know that you’re dealing with someone on the spectrum and, even if you aren’t educated on autism, you know some aspects of dealing with the subject could be problematic.” Other identifiers for individuals are medical alert bracelets and bracelets which look remarkably like fitbits worn on the wrist to record health-related information. Chandler even showed a picture of a sneaker’s shoelaces that
identified the wearer as autistic and gave general information about him. Why put the information on shoelaces and not a bracelet? Because the autistic person was very fond of bracelets and may wear so many at once that the one with the autism information could be overlooked. Once the patient is determined to have autism, then what? “We need to work to ensure fair treatment and safe practices when dealing with persons with autism,” Chandler said. “I am not standing here in front of you saying that someone with autism doesn’t go to jail. I absolutely am not. But they need to be treated fairly. We need to open a dialogue and raise empathy. That’s what people in the autism community want. They want people in law enforcement to know about autism. “There’s interaction between police and people with autism all the time. We have parents reaching out to us wanting us to train more officers, parents who have children with autism and people who have loved ones with autism. And the self-advocates, they want people to understand where they’re coming from and what it’s about. That’s why we include self-advocates in our training so the officers can hear from them personally. This builds a better sense of community between the autism community and the law enforcement officers.” While Chandler said that no two cases of autism are exactly the same, there are things for an officer to look and listen for in a person who is autistic’s reactions, traits and environment: • If you ask a question and get no answer, ask a family member, caregiver or neighbor. • Look for clues in the environment, like the puzzle piece, etc., that indicate autism. • Look for an ID card, jewelry or other identifier. • Look for characteristics, such as trouble communicating, avoiding eye contact, repeating things you say, sensitivity to light or other sensory input, repetitive behavior, lack of or excessive fear, failure to understand social norms. Nationwide, one in 68 persons have autism. In Alabama, it’s one in 1,175. That’s 3.5 million persons nationwide and 350,000 in Alabama.
Grant communication is. “My brother is a full bird colonel in the Marines,” Tuggle said Wednesday night at the board meeting. “He was in a fire fight. He could not communicate with the Marines in front or behind him. He has told me lots of stories about it. I look at you guys like that. If you cannot communicate, you are not operating as efficiently as you can or should be for the citizens of Tallapoosa County. I know communications is a big deal and it is obviously a huge public safety issue.” The Tallapoosa County 911 Board also used its own funds to complete the project. Eddie May, executive
McDaniel
Council said. “We know the kind of job you’ve had to do and understand the challenges you have faced and the time that you have all dedicated to the job. We all just wanted to thank you for what you have done and let you know that we all appreciate each and every one of you.” Tapley will return to represent District 1 and used the occasion to thank those who served with him. “I’d like to thank the people for allowing me to continue to represent them,” Tapley said. “But I’d also like to thank the mayor for his service and all of those who served the last four years on the council. It has been an honor to serve with you all.” District 2 Council Member Sherry Ellison-Simpson said it was an honor to serve. “I want to thank the people of District 2 for placing their trust in me,” Ellison-Simpson said. “It has been an honor to serve you and all the people of Alexander City over the last four years.” Bob Howard of District 3, who served alternating terms as council president with Jim Spann, thanked residents and gave the new leaders some advice. “It has been an honor and a privilege to have served,” Howard said. “We have faced some challenges, but I feel like we have accomplished a lot. I wish you all the best of luck. I know that if you come in with a cando attitude, you will be successful.” District 4’s Billy Ray Wall had a special thank you for City Clerk Harriett Scott and offered his help in the future. “I want to thank Miss Harriett for spoon-feeding us through this term,” Wall said. “We wouldn’t have been able to do it without her hard work
+
and dedication. To the new council, I just want you to know that I’m here and I will be willing to help any of you in any way that I can. “It’s been a good four years and I want to thank the people of my district and all of Alexander City for allowing me to serve.” Spann also offered encouragement to the newly-elected leaders. “I’d just like to echo what some of the others have said – it has been an honor and privilege to serve,” Spann said. “There has been a lot accomplished, it’s just sometimes the challenges we faced got in the way. But I know we all love this city and worked hard to make it the best it could be. “But there is a lot to be done. So to the new council, I know that if you all get on the same sheet of music, you can get it done.” District 6’s Tony Goss thank employees and other agencies for their help during his term. “I would like to thank Harriett for all of her help,” Goss said. “I’d like to thank all the city employees who work so hard for this city. I’d also like to thank the Lake Martin Area Economic Development Alliance and the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. They don’t have an easy job, but their work helps this city tremendously. I’d like to thank the people for allowing me to serve.” Mayor Charles Shaw thanked the new council for their kind words and the people for allowing him to serve. “I would like to thank the people of Alexander City for allowing me to serve the last four years,” Shaw said. “I appreciate the kind words from the new council. As I’ve said I love Alexander City and it has been an honor to serve you all.”
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director with CVRCDC says the group has been helping others in its 11 county area with similar projects. “We do a lot of these county-wide radio communication projects,” May said. “It must be very popular and needed. We are happy to be able to provide funding for this. If it were not for our state representative Mark Tuggle, we would not have this.” Tuggle has been working with the 911 board and CVRCDC for several years to make this project happen. “We have been working on this project for two or three years now,” Tuggle said. “Hopefully we can do this again.”
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Stephan Tomlin president-elect, Matt Haines vice president, Cecily Lee Secretary and Louise Tapley will serve as treasurer. At Thursday’s officer installation ceremony were the incoming mayor and council for Alexander City. Wagoner thanked the politicians for serving the community and coming to the meeting and gave the group a brief explanation of what Kiwanis does in Alexander City. “We are all about the children,” Wagoner said. “Anything we can do to help them we will try our best.”
Lloyd agreed with Tuggle on hoping to be able to do something similar again. “Now we will work on replacing the radios in other departments,” Lloyd said. “Some of them are operating on equipment from the 1970s. Hopefully we will be able to get everyone on the digital system.”
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Jimmy Abbett said the victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds. McDaniel saw his case bound over to the Tallapoosa County Grand Jury after a June 28 preliminary hearing where investigators in the case testified that McDaniel admitted that he had shot and killed Crayton in the early morning hours of Jan. 17, but said it was self-defense. Testimony at the hearing also included descriptions of evidence found at the scene that tied McDaniel to the crime and that there were signs that Crayton’s body had been moved and an attempt had been made to destroy and hide evidence in the case. Court records indicate that the hearing will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday.
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Page 4
Opinion
Our View It’s time to reopen all of the state’s drivers license offices
A
bout this time last year, the people in power in Montgomery began playing political games to jockey for more funding, trying to build public support before the legislature went back to work and start figuring out how to dish out public funds. Part of that dog and pony show was the closure of 31 driver license offices in rural areas throughout the state. Former Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Secretary of Law Enforcement Spencer Collier, who was later sent packing by the governor for his role in exposing the governor’s special relationship with a top advisor, said that since the agency’s budget had been cut the move was needed to stay in the black. Following that announcement, we started digging and found that the moves only resulted in a savings to the state of somewhere between $100,000 and $150,000. See, in most cases, the space for the outlying rural offices was being provided to the state rent- and/or utility-free by the counties in exchange for the convenience to their citizens. The cost to the state for these offices was minimal. We initially lost both of our offices here in Tallapoosa County, but after a month or so, the state threw the county a bone and agreed to reopen the Alexander City off on the third Tuesday and Wednesday of the month. While two days is better than none, the closest offices offering regular examinations are in Opelika and Wetumpka. Yes, you can still get renewals at the probate office, but what message does this send new drivers and those new to our state getting their first Alabama license? Long lines and wait times that require a good book and a lunch to be packed. This system isn’t working because it shouldn’t be this tough to be a street-legal driver. The state has a lot of serious problems that are going to take a lot of work to fix, but this one isn’t one of those. This is an easy fix and it needs to be done now. Reopen drivers licenses offices in every county and stop inconveniencing the people who live here.
Know Your
Officials T.C. Coley represents District 1, including half of Coley Creek, the Andrew Jackson subdivision, the southern part of Indian Hill, North Central Avenue, part of Pearson’s Chapel Road, the Northside community and portion T.C. Coley of Spring Hill community. His phone number is 212-9316. His address is 2316 North Central Avenue, Kellyton. Steve Robinson represents District 2, which includes the southern part of Alexander City, the Cedar Creek area, Ourtown and Willow Point. His phone number is 256-654-0047. His Steve Robinson address is 1225 Warren Circle, Alexander City. John McKelvey represents District 3, \\vwhich includes Jackson’s Gap, Hackneyville, New Site and Daviston. His phone number is 256-794-4405. His address is 1285 Freeman Road, Dadeville.
John McKelvey
Emma Jean Thweatt represents District 4, which includes Dadeville, Pace’s Point, northern Camp Hill, Buttston, Dudleyville and part of Eagle Creek. Her daytime phone number is 825-6914 and her evening phone number is 825-4207. Her address Emma Jean Thweatt is 585 Brookwood Circle, Dadeville. George Carleton Jr. represents District 5, which includes southern Camp Hill, Red Ridge, Walnut Hill, Union and Pleasant Ridge. His address is 630 Turner Road Road, Dadeville.
George Carleton Jr.
Outlook The
Friday, October 21, 2016
God and the upcoming holiday season
I
t’s hard to believe but the holiday season has official begun at the Hallmark home. Starting the first of October and going through the end of December our house is decorated to reflect fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. My sweet wife uses the last three months of the year to turn the house into a reflection of the seasons. Basically, we go from nature to nativity in stumbling giant steps. I really have no problem with all these decorations except in one area – boxes from the attic. As soon as late October arrives that girl heads upstairs and starts tearing through the storage boxes. Oh, they’re labeled, filed and crossreferenced, but still she has to make sure it’s what she wants for this year. For some reason you can’t use the same thing two years in a row. So, this is where I come in with a weak mind and strong back to start toting boxes. It’s something I live for every fall, not! One of the problems with all this crate carrying is my precious wife always spots her Christmas decorations and immediately heads that way. It’s all I can do to get her to focus on the season and keep them in sequence. That sounds easy enough to most people, but this child has an affinity for Christmas and had rather decorate
DR. GERALD HALLMARK Guest Columnist
for the Yuletide than any other time. It’s a major undertaking to restrain her each year from jumping the gun. For instance, last year I noticed that the Halloween pumpkins were all wearing elves hats. For Trick-or-Treat she was giving out candy canes and wishing the kids a Merry Christmas. Then Thanksgiving came along and she had garnished the turkey with mistletoe and served eggnog with the dessert. By the time Christmas finally arrived and we moved the 747 Christmas boxes down stairs to officially decorate I had to separate the Santas from the scarecrows on the lawn. Okay, it’s the end of October and we’re getting started. I believe I could still live with all this seasonal confusion if she wouldn’t sing Christmas carols while decorating with fall leaves. It’s bad enough that she sits in the middle of all her Christmas crates in the attic and talks to them like old friends, but somewhere down the line we need to get on track with these seasons. Before long this stuff will start bleeding over to Valentines Day
and I never will get any rest from “box back.” This is a malady peculiar to husbands caused by carrying hundreds of boxes to and fro from the attic. Ecclesiastes says that there was a season for all things and a proper time for all events. In our modern, hectic world it seems that we can’t tell one season from another because we are constantly living by our calendars and looking into the future. How many times do we hear people say they don’t have enough time or where did all the time go? The expression of “haste makes waste” has been replaced by “the need for speed.” That is why the Lord said, “Slow down and know that I am God.” I would stop and smell the roses, but my wife has already removed them for the poinsettias. There is something wrong when I’m still in shorts and flip flops, wearing a Santa cap, sitting down to a Thanksgiving meal decorated with Halloween favors. Somewhere there has to be a brake on this, don’t you think? Anyway, let’s have a nice Fall Halloween Thanksgiving Christmas season. As for me, I’m on my way to the chiropractor with “box back”. Gerald Hallmark is a retired minister who resides in Alexander City. His column appears in The Outlook each Friday.
So much smoke in this year’s race, fire inevitable
D
emocrat operatives’ firebombed a N.C. Republican headquarters. Just when you thought this presidential race could not any more heated, one party fire bombs another. Even Kim Jung Un of North Korea said, hey Americans, take this down a notch. Observers accused Democrats of wanting to start a war on whites. I do not think that this is the case. I will need more proof, like if they firebomb the kale aisle of Whole Foods, then maybe that’s enough proof. Hillary instinctively blamed the fire-bombing on an anti-Presbyterian YouTube video. “This highly disturbing act goes far beyond vandalizing property; it willfully threatens our community’s safety via fire, and its hateful message undermines decency, respect and integrity in civic participation,” Mayor Tom Stevens said. The North Carolina Democratic Party also condemned the attack, but will probably plead the Fifth if asked about it. Whether anyone is brought to justice on this depends, as it sadly does these days, as to whether the Attorney General is a Republican or Democrat. Odd how the liberals, the self-professed tolerant ones who constantly accuse anyone who disagrees with them as hateful, seem to be doing the most violence in America. Whether it’s attacking Trump supporters, or rioting after a police shooting. I am not sure how we got to this point in this country. Apparently we can no longer have a political difference of opinion. Those of us who believe in limited government, balanced budgets and individ-
RON HART Syndicated Columnist
ual responsibility are the “hateful” ones. Somehow the Left has spun a difference of opinion as to the role of government, to folks who believe that are evil, and worthy of attack. I have many friends on the Left and enjoy engaging them in meaningful political discussion. To me it should be like the Shakespeare said in “The Taming of the Shrew,” “And do as adversaries do in the law, strive mightily, but eat and drink as friends.” I’m not sure where humor and civility has done in this politically correct world. Moreover, there has never been presidential race where I have seen so few Trump or Hillary bumper stickers. I asked a buddy, a huge Trump supporter, why he had no stickers, he said he was afraid someone would key his car. The rancor is incredible. To get Hillary Clinton speeches started, they play the National Anthem to make sure everyone is seated so they can begin. This all based off an NFL quarterback making $16 million a year who says he cannot get a fair shake in America. Democrats are all of a sudden against email hacker espionage when they start getting WikiLeaked on themselves. We have a Democrat candidate for president who says in WikiLeak’ed emails that she cannot relate to the middle class and is cozy with Wall Street. And we
have a Republican candidate who cannot relate to the rich, who Wall Street hates. That is not how it is supposed to be in the brochure. It’s a political Bizarro World. Every unproven police shooting in this country makes inner-city folks feel like they can smash a window and take an NBA jersey or flat screen TV. Advice to the young Democrats out there looting, do not forget the remote and batteries. It’s embarrassing to have to go back the next day to that same store. Even the Kardashians are not safe. Poor Kim was robbed of millions in jewelry in her hotel, and hog-tied with a rope. Police vowed to get the men who did this crime. They have already got a line up for her to look at known cat burglar jewel thieves, and all past French rodeo champions. Any of the 16 other GOP presidential candidates would have beaten Hillary Clinton. Who would have thought Billy Bush would have a tape that would change this race? He is Jeb Bush’s cousin. Jeb has to be thinking, you had the tape, why not release it earlier this year? Then the media, given their marching orders by the Democrats, conjure up a woman who said Trump went too far with her in the first class cabin of a flight decades ago. Trump was not so much mad at the false allegation, he’s just mad that it got out that he flew commercial once. Ron Hart is a libertarian op–ed humorist and award–winning author, Ron is a frequent guest on CNN. He can be contacted at Ron@RonaldHart.com or @RonaldHart on Twitter.
Today’s
Quote
“Keep love in your heart. A life without it is like a sunless garden when the flowers are dead.” – Oscar Wilde
Today’s
Scripture
“If someone claims, ‘I know God,’ but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person is a liar and is not living in the truth.” – 1 John 2:4
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Friday, October 21, 2016
The Outlook
CommunityCalendar SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
Today is
October 21, 2016 Today’s Events
OPEN HOUSE: Alabama Power Shoreline Management is hosting a public education open house Oct.
21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Creekside Lodge Event Center
Today’s Anniversaries
Cleon and Marie Vernon, Sam and Sylvia Stokes and Rev. and Mrs. David Moore are celebrating their anniversary.
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Today’s Birthdays
Cindy Wilcox, Daniel Booth, Romonia Jones, Billie Joe Sallas, Louis Buzbee, Tony Tucker, Ronnie Joiner, Mary Lou Whetstone, Lauren Elizabeth Childs, Elizabeth Sasser, Perry H. Mann, Timothy Walker, Jeremy Yates and Steven Colvin are celebrating their birthday.
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In addition to naming Kiwanian of the Year, a new slate of officers were welcomed. Marvin Wagoner is president, Stephan Tomlin, president-elect, Matt Haines, vice president, Cecily Lee, secretary and Louise Tapley will serve as treasurer.
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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October 7-22
CHARISH: Chairish pieces will be on display at the United Way Building in Downtown Alexander City and on the MainStreet Facebook page.
October 20-23
WOMEN’S CONFERENCE: New Covenant Ministries of the World is hosting a Women’s Conference Oct. 20-23 at the Liberty Life Christian Center at 243 S Street in Alexander City. Thursday and Friday there will be 9 a.m. Supplication, 11:30 a.m. Women in Training and 7 p.m. Profound Women of Evangelism. Saturday, Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. to noon is the Young Adult Women Seminar, Seminar Part I from noon to 2 p.m. and Seminar Part II from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Speakers include Evangelist Emma Parmer, Evangelist Andora Dothard, and Lady Wendy M. Jones. Sunday, Oct. 23 is Climax Day with Evangelist Lashunda Brown speaking. Chief Apostle W.T. Traylor is founder and chief administrator.
October 22
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CHRISTMAS CARD WORKSHOP: The Artist Association of Central Alabama is hosting a Christmas Card Workshop October 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Wine Emporium. The cost is $40 for members and $50 for nonmembers. The class is limited to 12 prepaid students. CHAIRISH: Chairish pieces will be displayed along Main Street during the MainStreet Farmers Market and Fall Festival. Raffle tickets will be sold and drawing held for the winners. The MainStreet Fall Festival and annual pumpkin roll and pumpkin bowling will be in Strand Park. FAMILY GAME NIGHT: The Bibb Graves School Association is hosting family game night with bingo Oct. 22 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. CANCER WALK: The first annual Pink Out Cancer Walk will be Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Courthouse in Dadeville. 48-year breast cancer survivor Jan Pearson is coordinating this walk in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. HAUNTED HAYRIDE: The Fields of Fear Haunted Hayride will be Oct. 15, 22 and 29 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at 503 Freeman Road, Dadeville. Cost is $15. FARM DAY: The Weogufka Center is hosting a farm day Oct. 22. See the Museum of Old Farm Equipment, the train man Robert Pearson will set up in the school and Ms. Kay Chesire will be in the history room. Call Jerry Reeves to show your antique cars and trucks at 256-223-1303. Vendors booths are available by calling Melvin Palmer at 256-249-8885. Breakfast starts at 6:30 a.m. FALL FESTIVAL: The Horseshoe Bend School will be hosting its fall festival Oct. 22 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the school. FISHFORACURE: Coosa County Sheriff’s Office is hosting the annual COACH “Fish for a Cure” fishing tournament this Saturday, Oct. 22 at Wind Creek Marina. Guaranteed payout totals $4K (up to 12th Place) and door prizes. Blast Off is Safe Daylight. Entry fee is $100 and optional big fish pot $10. To pre-register call Coosa County Sheriff’s Office at 256-377-1803. Registration begins at 4:30 on Oct. 22, 2016. FISHING TOURNAMENT: The Coosa County Sheriff’s Office is hosting its annual “Fish For A Cure” Bass Fishing Tournament Oct. 22 at Wind
Creek Marina. Entry fee is $100 and registration begins at 4:30 a.m., blast off is at safe daylight with weigh in at 3 p.m. There is a guaranteed payout of $4,000. FALL FESTIVAL: The Horseshoe Bend School is hosting a fall festival Oct. 22 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. There will be a cake walk, bingo, inflatables and booths for children. There will be chicken stew sold in the lunchroom.
October 23
FOUNDER’S DAY: The GAP Fellowship Church will celebrate its 17th Annual Founder’s Day and the dedication of the church building at the new location of 721 Robinson Court, Oct. 23 at 2:30 p.m. Guest speakers will be Rev. Jason Whetstone of Christian Faith Fellowship of Dadeville at 11 a.m. and Rev. Bruce Williams of Enon United Methodist Church of Birmingham at 2:30 p.m. The past of GAP Fellowship Church is Lewis and marilyn Benson. FALL SERVICE: Darien Church is hosting a fall service Oct. 23 at 10:30 a.m. The church is located on Highway 22 five miles west of Wadley at Cotney’s old store. The service will be followed by a covered dish lunch. AUDITIONS: Alexander City Theatre II will hold auditions for “The Vision,” an uplifting, non-denominational Christmas play by William Grandgeorge, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Old Bama Theatre, 264 Tallapoosa St., Alexander City. Visit the Facebook Page for details. CHURCH HOMECOMING: Bradford United Methodist Church invites everyone to their annual homecoming celebration Sunday, Oct. 23 at 10:30 a.m. followed by a fellowship meal. Guest speaker will be Rev. Bill Gandy and special music will be provided by Harlan Burton. FALL FESTIVAL: Kellyton First United Methodist Church is hosting a fall festival Oct. 23 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Games like Go Fish, Basketball Throw, Cake Walk and Ring Toss are from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. A movie will be shown at 5 p.m. with hot dogs from 5:30 p.m. to 5:50 p.m. There will also be a trunk or treat at 5:50 p.m.
October 24
AUDITIONS: Alexander City Theatre II will hold auditions for “The Vision,” an uplifting, non-denominational Christmas play by William Grandgeorge, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Old Bama Theatre, 264 Tallapoosa St., Alexander City. Visit the Facebook Page for details. MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION: The next meeting of the Alexander City Area Ministerial Association will be Monday, Oct. 24 at 6:30 p.m. at River of Life Worship Center. The guest speaker will be Teri Trammell, executive director of The Lighthouse in Alexander City. She will talk about the services offered by this institution. There will also be time for sharing information, mutual support, planning, and intercessory prayer. All Christian ministers are invited. For more information contact Bill Middlebrooks, secretary at 256-234-3371.
October 25
DYSLEXIA QUOTES: The Adelia M. Russell Library will be hosting Dyslexia Quotes and Books Oct. 25 from 4:45 p.m. 6 p.m. AUDITIONS: Alexander City Theatre II will hold auditions for “The Vision,” an uplifting, non-denominational Christmas play by William Grandgeorge, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Old Bama Theatre,
264 Tallapoosa St., Alexander City. Visit the Facebook Page for details. AUTHOR VISIT: Author Fred Norrell will visit the Dadeville Public Library at 2 p.m. to talk about his recently published book, A Boy’s Adventures on Lake Martin. It is a memoir of his boyhood on the lake beginning at age 6 and the summers he spent with his father fishing, camping, building a raft and doing all the fun things to be treasured as a child. He will have books available for sale. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Call 256 8257820 for more information. DRUG PLAN ENROLLMENT ASSISTANCE: Tallapoosa County and The East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission’s Area Agency on Aging will host a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan enrollment assistance event on Tuesday, Oct. 18, Oct. 25, Nov. 1, Nov. 8, Nov. 15, Nov. 29 and Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sportplex Cabin. To help develop a plan comparison, Medicare recipients will need to bring their Medicare card,along with a complete list of medications they are taking and the dosages. Volunteers will guide them through the selection process and help them get information on the cost of each plan. People interested in getting a plan comparison will be assisted on a first come, first served basis. Each counseling sessions will last about 40 minutes. There may be a wait time. Contact East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission at (800) 2435463 ext. 150 with questions.
FOOT Specialties
Dr. Douglas Stewart Alexander City, AL
256-215-5596 American Board of Podiatric Surgery Certi¿ed Diabetic Shoes Hospital Surgeries Total Nail Care Hammertoes, Bunions, Corns and Calluses Sports Injuries
October 26
TRUNK OR TREAT: First Presbyterian Church and First United Methodist Church are uniting for a fun Trunk or Treat at the Presbyterian Church Wednesday, Oct. 26 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The FANS HEAR You!
October 28
DOWNTOWN SHOWDOWN: Lake Martin Area United WAY is hosting its Downtown Showdown Fashion Show Oct. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. The fashion show featuring local designers will start at 7 p.m. FALL FESTIVAL: The Bill Nichols State Veterans Home is hosting a Fall Festival Oct. 28 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is free to the public. There will be a bake sale, yard sale, country store and grilled hotdogs. All proceeds go toward veterans. FALL CELEBRATION: The Family Worship Center Fall Celebration will be Friday, Oct. 28 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with hotdogs, games, trunk a treat, hayride and cake walk. The pastor is Tony Harris. FASHION SHOW: The Downtown Showdown Fashion Show for the United Way will be Oct. 28 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the United Way back parking lot. The fashion show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 and VIP tables are available by calling 256-329-3600. The event will have hous d’oeuvres and feature local designers. FASHION SHOW: The Horseshoe Bend High School FCCLA Pink Fashion Show will be Oct. 28 at 2 p.m. in the commons area of the school . The show will feature pink and teal models as the focus in not just on breast cancer but to bring awareness to ovarian cancer too. Never Give Up t-shirts will be for $15 and up.
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Advertising Dept.
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Page 6
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Haunted History comes to Wetumpka By WILLIAM CARROLL Managing Editor
In five days the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce will host the city’s first ever Haunted History tour of downtown buildings. According to Chamber Associate Director Jamie Young, the tour currently includes 14 downtown buildings as part of the tour. The Chamber has been working for the last several months with the Central Alabama Paranormal Investigations team to identify buildings in Wetumpka that may have paranormal activity. Young said these 14 locations agreed to be part of the tour and to submit to an investigation by CAPI. Young said the team found evidence of activity in all 14 locations. The locations include the old Lancaster Hotel, the “Big Fish” House, the building that houses the chamber, the Vault, River Perk and the Elmore County Historical Society and Museum. Young said the tour will take 3 hours in total and will run from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on October 26-29. There is also an extended tour where participants can go to either the museum or the chamber and participate in a real paranormal investigation until midnight. Young said that luminaries will be placed throughout downtown to mark the path and the city will be removing planters around town for the event so that participants can freely walk along city sidewalks. The tour will include not only ghost stories but also historical tales and folkloric stories about the individual structures. “We have had people ask if it will be like a haunted house with actors jumping out to scare people,” she said. “It isn’t that kind of tour, it is really a history
Friday, October 21, 2016
The Outlook
tour.” Young said the tour will allow participants to see parts of downtown buildings they may have never seen. “Some buildings will have off-limits areas, which will be roped off for safety,” she said. “Participants though will see a lot of areas they wouldn’t normally be allowed to see.” Young said the city of Wetumpka had recently also granted permission for the CAPI team to investigate several city buildings including city hall and the library. “We will probably save those for next year’s tour as we have already got this year’s tour organized,” she said. For those involved in the extended tour the Chamber is also hosting a paranormal class Saturday at the Chamber’s offices downtown. Completion of the eight-hour class will earn the participants a certification as a paranormal investigator. There is limited space available for the tours. Young said that the Wednesday and Thursday tours have 85 people signed up, while Friday has approximately 100 and Saturday 125. “We are completely full for the extended tours on Friday and Saturday,” she said. The cost is $15 for the regular tour and $40 for the extended tour, which includes the paranormal investigators class. For more information or to purchase tickets you can go by the chamber offices downtown or to www. wetumpkachamber.com. A link on the home page will allow you to buy tickets for any of the nights that are still available.
AMERICAN LETTERPRESS SINCE 1879
Farm Service Agency releases crop-reporting dates STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
Elmore/Montgomery/Tallapoosa/Coosa County USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director CEO Jeffrey Smith announced that producers who file accurate and timely reports for all crops and land uses, including failed acreage can prevent the potential loss of FSA program benefits. Please pay close attention to the acreage reporting dates below for 2017. “In order to comply with FSA program eligibility requirements, all producers are encouraged to visit the Elmore/Montgomery/Tallapoosa/Coosa County FSA office to file an accurate crop certification report by the applicable deadline,” said CEO Smith. The following acreage reporting dates are applicable for Elmore, Montgomery, Tallapoosa and Coosa County: • Nov. 15, 2016: grass certification • Jan. 2, 2017: honey • Jan. 15, 2017: blueberries, canola, rapeseed, fall oats, peaches and fall wheat • March 15, 2017: pecans and potatoes (planted 1/1/2017 -1/31/2017) • May 15, 2017: sweet corn, tobacco, tomatoes and potatoes (planted 3/2/2017 -4/ 15/20I7) July 15, 2017: all other crops The following exceptions apply to the above acreage reporting dates: • If the crop has not been planted by the above acreage reporting date, then the acreage must be reported no later than 15 calendar days after planting is completed. • If a producer acquires additional acreage after the above acreage reporting date, then the acreage must be reported no later than 30 calendar s days after purchase or acquiring the lease. Appropriate documentation must be provided to the county office. • If a perennial forage crop is reported with the intended use of “cover only,” “green manure,” “left standing,” or “seed” then the acreage must be reported by July 15th. According to CEO Smith, Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) policy-holders should note that the acreage reporting date for NAP covered crops is the earlier of the dates listed above or 15 calendar days before grazing or harvesting of the crop begins. For questions regarding crop certification and crop loss report s, please contact the Elmore/Montgomery /Tallapoosa/Coosa County FSA office at 334-567-2264.
Police Reports Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department October 18
• A resident of Hayes Mill Road filed an unwanted person report. • A resident of Dudleyville Road filed a report for assault.
October 17
• A resident of Highway 50 filed a report for criminal mischief. • A resident of Bama Park Road filed a report for fraud. • A resident of Murray Road filed a report for theft of property. • A resident of Fredrick Ferry Road filed a report harassment. • A resident of Campbell Road filed a report for domestic violence.
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October 15
October 14
• A resident of Sparrow Court in Dadeville filed a report for criminal mischief. • A resident of Tigerwood Lane in Dadeville filed a report for theft.
• Charles Royal of Alexander Mill Drive of Charlotte, North Carolina was arrested for minor in possession of alcohol. • Jon Price of Hickory Road in Naples, Florida was arrested for minor in possession of alcohol. • A resident of Notasulga Road in Tallassee field a report for criminal mischief. • A resident of Notasulga Road in Tallassee filed a report for criminal mischief. • A resident of Lowe Road in Notasulga filed a report for domestic violence. • A resident of Bent Hickory Way in Dadeville filed a report for domestic violence harassment. • A resident of Stillwaters Drive in Dadeville filed a report for criminal mischief.
October 13
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October 11
• Curtis Easterwood of Dejarnette Road in Kellyton was arrested on a grand jury indictment for burglary third and grand jury indictment for theft of property fourth. • A resident of Smith Mountain Drive in Dadeville filed a report for an animal bite. • A resident of Highway 22 East in Daviston filed a report for theft. • A resident of Murphy Lake Road in Dadeville filed a report for domestic abuse.
• Demeterious Leonard was arrested on an active probation violation/revocation warrant.
STEP INSIDE The Shop
• Jeanelle Whitmore was arrested in the courtroom at the Tallapoosa County Courthouse in Dadeville for grand jury indictments for theft of property 1st and theft by deception 1st. • A resident of Dudleyville Road filed a report for harassment. • A resident of Tank Road filed a report for domestic violence. • A resident of Sanford Road filed a report for domestic violence.
October 12
• A resident of Chiquapin Pass filed a report for theft of property. • Fredrikis Heard was arrested in the courtroom at the Tallapoosa County Courthouse in Dadeville for a grand jury indictment for rape second degree.
October 10
October 9
• A resident of Lovelady Road in Dadeville filed a report for theft of a residence. • A resident of Thompson Road in Notasulga filed a report for domestic violence harassment. • Matthew Smith of Opelika was arrested on active grand jury indictments for 35 counts of obscene matter.
October 7
• A resident of Adcock Road filed a report for criminal mischief. • A resident of Rock Springs Road filed a report for domestic violence. • Lateshia Kelley of Goodwater turned herself into the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department on the charges of NWNI.
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Faith Christian students take trip to Bible History Center STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
Students in the fourth through ninth grades at Faith Christian Academy took a field trip to the Biblical History Center in LaGrange, Georgia Wednesday. This archaeological museum is a one-of-a-kind museum where one can experience the ancient Biblical world, its history and culture through authentic replicas of Middle Eastern life in ancient times, many based on actual archeological excavations.
The students saw goat hair tents, an oasis, a first century village, a Roman market street, and a Roman theater. The Biblical History Center is the seventh museum in the world, the fourth in the United States, and the only museum in the Southeast to receive a long-term loan of artifacts from the Israel Antiquities Authority It features 250 artifacts created from the collections of the Israel National Treasures. There are two other Biblical History Centers, located in Paris and New York.
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Jehovah Jireh Bible Institute earns new accreditation
Submitted / The Outlook
Faith Christian Academy students learn about the mill stone shown in the picture at the Biblical History Center in LaGrange, Georgia.
Jehovah Jireh Bible Institute of Higher Learning in Alexander City recently received its accreditation by Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges and Universities (ASIC). Pictured with the certification is Pastor Melvin Ervin MDiv – Dean of Students, Dr. Rod Williams Sr., Faculty Advisor and Dr. James Blackmon, Dean of Instruction. The institute has earned Premier status with ASIC for its commendable areas of operation. ASIC accreditation helps students and parents make a more informed choice and will also help a school, college, university, training provider or distance education provider, demonstrate to the international student body that they are a high quality institution. ASIC is recognized by UKVI in UK, is a member of the CHEA International Quality Group (CIQG) in USA and is listed in their International Directory, is a member of the BQF (British Quality Foundation), are affiliates of ENQA (European Network for Quality Assurance) and are institutional members of EDEN (European Distance and E-Learning Network). JJBIHL will have orientation and registration on Saturday, Nov. 12 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Jehovah Jireh Ministries located at 1410 Hillabee Street in Alexander City. For more information call 256-749-1615. For more Information go to http://www.jjbi.education
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CATHY HIGGINS SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
sports@alexcityoutlook.com
Page 10
Friday, October 21, 2016
www.alexcityoutlook.com
FRIDAY FOOTBALL PREVIEW
BRHS aims to control playoff fate in Wetumpka By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor
Benjamin Russell heads to Wetumpka tonight for a region game against the Indians. It’s an important contest for the Wildcats as they look toward the coveted post-season playoffs. “If we beat Wetumpka, we’ll be the No. 2 seed in the region,” said Benjamin Russell head coach Danny Horn. “If they beat us and Helena beats Chelsea, then we’re out. But if Chelsea beats Helena, we’re in regardless of what happens.” In the region, both teams have a season record of 3-2. However, Wetumpka is 7-2 overall while Benjamin Russell is 3-5. Both teams are also looking to rebound from losses last week. The Wildcats fell to Helena 35-24, while Wetumpka was edged out by Opelika 38-37. To defeat Wetumpka, the Wildcats will have to bring their A-game. “Wetumpka, they’re a very, very good team,” Horn said. “They’ve got good athletes. This same group has been playing together since the ninth grade and most of them are juniors. They’ve got possibility and they are well coached.” All of that adds up to a wellexecuting team. “Offensively, I think they’re one of the highest-scoring teams in 6A this year,” Horn said. “They scored 36 points against Opelika. If you score 36 points against Opelika this year, you’ve got a pretty good offense. The way you beat Opelika is to match them athlete to athlete, and Wetumpka is one of the few teams around here that can match them from an athletic standpoint.” Indians quarterback Jadarious Martin leads the well-oiled Wetumpka machine. “He can run,” Horn said, “and they’ve got so many weapons in
Kenneth Boone / The Outlook
Benjamin Russell’s Landon Cotney (14) hands the ball off to NeColby Maxwell last week as Helena’s Justin Butler attempts to stop the pass.
the backfield.” That includes running backs Kavosiey Smoke and DeAndre Williams, who each scored 80-yard touchdown returns last week. “They’re both 215 and they can run,” Horn said. The young Wildcats spent this week striving to rise to tonight’s challenge. “It’s hard to emulate speed in practice,” Horn said. “What we’ve got to be able to do is to tackle out on the field. We’ve just got to try to slow them down the best we can.” However, the Wildcats will have to improve over past performances. “We’ve got to be more physical,” he said. “We’re just not tough enough mentally or physically.” Kickoff is 7 p.m. at Hohenberg Field.
Cougars seeking homecoming region win
When the Central Coosa Cougars step onto the field in their regional matchup against Southside-Selma tonight, they’ll be putting everything on the line. After all, quite a lot rests on the game. “It’s homecoming, it’s our seniors’ last homecoming, it’s a home game, it’s a region game,” said Central Coosa head coach Barry Simmons. The face off is also an important cog in the machine of what determines whether one or both of tonight’s opponents get to take part in the post-season playoffs. “We must win tonight,” Simmons said. “It’s a playoff game before the playoffs.
There’s no scenario out there where we lose and we’re still in.” Central Coosa comes into tonight’s contest with a season record of 4-4 overall and 2-3 in the region after last week’s 39-22 loss to Montgomery Academy. Meanwhile Southside is basking in the glow of last week’s 44-16 win over Haynes Central. So while the Cougars are looking to rally with a W of their own, they’re also aiming to tie things up in the region with Southside. But besting the Panthers won’t be an easy task for Central Coosa. “They’re a very athletic team,” Simmons said. “They’re big and they have some of the best athletes in the region” That includes senior wide receiver DeQuan Johnson. “He’s as good as we’ve seen all year,” Simmons said, adding that Johnson is often placed anywhere from quarterback to
slot. “We have to locate him at all times. They have him all over the field, and they play him in every single play.” Simmons is also looking to slow down Panthers junior wide receiver Keshawn Arrington, and quarterbacks Malik Johnson and Gneil Johnson, whose arm is one to contend with. Southside senior running back Christopher Edwards will be a force to control, as well. “That running back’s a big guy,” Simmons said. To come out on top tonight, Central Coosa needs to stay focused. “We’ve got to play some sound football,” Simmons said. “We have to have intensity. That means staying sharp on offense and preventing the Panthers from scoring. “Defensively we’ve got to line up correctly,” Simmons said, “and create some turnovers.” This would also be the best time for the oldest Cougars to lead the team through all four quarters. “We need our seniors to step up and be seniors,” Simmons said. Kickoff is 7 p.m. at Keith Bullard Stadium with the homecoming court announced at halftime.
Lyman Ward Rangers close season at home
The Lyman Ward Rangers end their 2016 season still in search of their first win tonight. They play the Alabasterbased Evangel Christian in their final home game. The Rangers will have a tough time of it as the Lightning have a season record of 8-1 overall and 3-0 in the region. Kickoff of the region game is at 6:30 p.m. at Ranger Stadium.
Daylong golf marathon raises $3k for Lake Martin Area United Way By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor
Stillwaters Golf Pro Rob “Gabby” Witherington completed his Hundred-Hole Marathon to benefit the Lake Martin Area United Way Monday. “I started at 6:30 a.m. and finished at 3:30 p.m.,” Witherington said. The golf pro began challenging area residents and businesses to pledge any amount per hole, with the proceeds used to fund the 27 organizations UW supports. Once Witherington was finished Monday, his venture had raised approximately $3,000 from 46 pledges. Witherington plans to present the check during United Way’s fashion show in downtown Alexander City on Oct. 28. This is not the first time Witherington
has taken on such a feat. When he was at Still Waters 20 years ago, he did a similar marathon with more than 200 holes. He wanted to repeat that concept, adjusting his goal to 100 holes, and donate the proceeds to an area nonprofit organization. Witherington’s opportunity to do so fell into place this spring when United Way Executive Director Sharon Fuller spoke to the Dadeville Kiwanis meeting in March that Witherington attended. Fuller’s presentation touched on the fact that United Way serves approximately 25,000 people in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and that the organization has lost about $80,000 in support with the downsizing of major contributor Russell Corp. Witherington and Fuller are looking to make the marathon an annual fundraiser.
Cathy Higgins / The Outlook
Above, Stillwaters Golf Pro Rob “Gabby” Witherington works his way through the fairway during Monday’s Hundred-Hole Marathon. At right, while stopping for a lunch break, Witherington (back row, middle) gets support from (from left, front row) Lake Martin Area United Way Director Sharon Fuller and UW representatives Irene Lyle, Katie Rabson, (back row) Linda White and Tina Parker.
SPORTS CALENDAR • Reeltown Youth League • RMC Foundation-CACC Golf Football home game against Fundraiser at Willow Point with • Lyman Ward football home Beauregard Blue: freshmen 9 a.m., proceeds benefitting RMC Cancer game against Evangel Christian, sophomores 10 a.m., juniors 11 Center. 6:30 p.m. • Alexander City Youth League • Benjamin Russell varsity foot- a.m., seniors noon. football at Sportplex: 6u Redskins ball at Wetumpka, 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23-25 • Central Coosa varsity football • Central Alabama Community vs 6u Steelers , 5:30 p.m.; 10u at Fayetteville, 7 p.m. College Trojan Blood Series, Ravens vs 10u Broncos, 6:30 p.m.; CACC baseball team to play best 10u Panthers vs 10u Bengals, 7:30 Saturday, Oct. 22 p.m. • Dadeville Youth League two out of three games 5 p.m. daily at CACC baseball field. Losing Tuesday, Oct. 25 Football home game against team to donate blood to American • Alexander City Youth League Tuskegee: freshmen 9 a.m., sophoRed Cross. football at Sportplex: 8u Bears vs mores 10 a.m., juniors 11 a.m., 8u Falcons , 5:30 p.m.; 8u Panthers seniors noon. Monday, Oct. 24
Friday, Oct. 21
• BRHS varsity football at vs 8u Bengals, 6:30 p.m.; 12u Beauregard, 7 p.m. Falcons vs 12u Saints, 7:30 p.m. • Horseshoe Bend varsity footWednesday, Oct. 26 • BRHS girls varsity bowling vs ball home game vs Wadley, 7 p.m. Auburn, 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28 • Alexander City Youth League • Central Coosa varsity football football at Sportplex: 6u Steelers vs home game vs Childersburg 6u Cowboys, 5:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31 Thursday, Oct. 27 • Central Alabama Community Baseball-Softball • Reeltown varsity football home College game against Loachapoka, 7 p.m. Halloween Game at CACC base• Alexander City Middle School ball field, 5 p.m., free. Players to boys basketball at Sylacauga, 6:15 be in costume and candy will be given away. p.m.