April 13, 2017 Alex City Outlook

OPINION: GUN VIOLENCE IS NOT THE ANSWER, PAGE 4.

THE

THURSDAY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

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April 13, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 73 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢

SPORTS, PAGE 10 Wildcats need win to make playoffs

Man injured as more shots sprayed into neighborhood

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Despite making an arrest in two incidents involving shots being fired in a Alexander City neighborhood Tuesday, police officials are looking for suspects and answers in a second round of gunfire across town later that night.

Alexander City Police Chief Jay Turner

confirmed that an Alexander City man received a gunshot wound to the leg after shots were fired at structures and vehicles along County Road in the Spring Hill community Tuesday at about 9:30 p.m.

Windows were shattered, cars were damaged and Turner said they have pulled out all the stops in the search to find the people responsible.

See SHOTS • Page 3

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

Police were called to County Road in the Spring Hill community Tuesday night at about 9:30 p.m. after residents reported shots being fired in the area. Several structures and vehicles were hit by gunfire and one man sustained non-life threatening injuries.

Four in running for open school board seat

McDaniel attorney seeks change of venue for murder trial

By DONALD CAMPBELL and MITCH SNEED Staff Writers

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Four Alexander City Board of Education candidates will be interviewed by the Alexander City City Council in a work session today.

Kelly Waldrop, Glenda Bland, Jeffrey Hines and Vantrice Heard all applied. All four will be asked the same series of questions by the council members. The position has been occupied by Waldrop.

Notice of the meeting was posted Tuesday and one candidate will be interviewed at 7 a.m. The other interviews will begin promptly at 4:45 p.m. on Thursday afternoon. A short break will be given after the second interview.

These potential appointees, Kelly Waldrop, Glenda Bland, Jeffrey Hines, and Vantrice Heard all have a vision of what they’d like to accomplish during their five-year term.

Here’s a summary of how each candidate answered the following questions: What are your reasons for wanting to serve on the board of education?

What inspired you to seek (re) appointment to the seat?

If you are (re)appointed to the

An attorney for a man accused of murder in the Jan. 17, 2016 murder of Norman Dean Crayton is seeking to have the trial moved out of Tallapoosa County.

Davis Whittelsey, the attorney for Matthew Clate McDaniel, filed a change of venue motion on March McDaniel 22. The motion claims that due to the attention that the case has garnered in the media, McDaniel would not be able to get a fair trial here.

The motion that was filed reads in part: “ The Alexander City Outlook, together with numerous other media outlets have published and circulated articles and video media throughout Tallapoosa County, Alabama describing the acts with which the Defendant is charged, and have published rumors and leads regarding other criminal See MCDANIEL • Page 3

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

Top, students from the Cooper Head Start program unload the bus and head into Jim Pearson Elementary School Wednesday for the school’s annual meet and greet with rising kindergarten students. Below, Principal Jamie Forbus welcomes the students and introduced them to the staff.

MEET & GREET

Rising kindergarten students tour Jim Pearson

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Jim Pearson students and staff rolled out the red carpet for more than 100 future students of the school with their annual Meet and Greet Session Wednesday.

Students from every Head Start, pre-school and nursery in the area were welcomed to the school for a tour, fun activities and a chance to meet their future classmates.

“It’s a chance for us to meet them and let

See SCHOOL • Page 3

See MEET • Page 5

Mt. Zion Baptist to hold crucifixion reenactment

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

Beginning at 7 p.m. this evening, Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Alexander City will be holding a re-enactment of the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of Jesus at the church.

“We started this event last year, wanting to do something different for Easter,” said Dr. Wayne Wright, the preacher at Mt. Zion.

The events will begin this evening at 7 with a traditional Passover meal. While anyone can attend the event, it is designed more for the men.

Beginning at noon on Friday, the churchyard will be the site of a re-enactment of the crucifixion, and is scheduled to last until around 7 p.m.

“While the Bible said it took place from 9 in the morning until 3 in the afternoon, we scheduled it for this time so that more people would

Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Alexander City will be holding a re-enactment of the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of Jesus at the church .

File / The Outlook

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be able to come by and see what exactly Jesus went through,” Wright explained.

Following the crucifixion, a rock will be rolled out and placed in front of the tomb to seal it.

Throughout the day on Saturday, a group of men dressed as Roman soldiers will march back and forth in front of the tomb, guarding the body. Finally, on Sunday morning, between 4:30 and 5 a.m., the rock will be rolled back, and an angel will be present at the opening to the tomb.

Following this, the church will have its traditional Sunrise Service at Wind Creek State Park at 7 a.m., and a service at the church at 11 a.m.

“We didn’t realize it was going to make such an impression on everyone who saw it last year,” Wright said. According to the church’s best estimates, between 15,000 and 20,000 people drove by during the event.

“The parking lot was full, and cars were See CRUCIFY • Page 3

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Eliglible woman bemoans the hordes of clueless men

Friday

83 60 Low

High Mostly sunny

Saturday

82 59 Low

High Mostly sunny

Staff

Directory Alethia Russell Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 alethia.russell@alexcityoutlook.com Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com

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

Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Donna Jones Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 donna.jones@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Advertising Sales, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Advertising Sales, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com

Newsroom Amy Passaretti Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com

Postal

Information (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) The Outlook is published five times a week, Tuesday through Saturday mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.

Thursday, April 13, 2017

The Outlook

Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, Kenneth Boone Photography and a commercial web printing press. © 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.

DEAR ABBY: Could you explain to me why, as a species, men are so blind and stupid? There are millions of smart, funny, sweet, attractive -- even sexy -- eligible women to whom men do not give a second glance, or even acknowledge that these wonderful women exist. Then, these clueless guys moan about how they can’t find a good woman, can’t find love, have a hard time getting sex, etc., when there are scores of potentially awesome partners right under their noses! Why don’t men ever grow up? Even men in their 40s, 50s and 60s suffer from the same stupidity about the dating scene as teenage boys. I repeat: WHY?! -ELIGIBLE LADY IN ALABAMA DEAR ELIGIBLE: Coupling up can be complicated these days, because many variables can come into play. Individuals of both sexes can be addicted to a “type” they fantasize about, chase the illusion of eternal youth by pursuing unsuitable

DEAR ABBY Advice

partners and/or be commitment-phobic.

That said, you might have better luck with men if you didn’t stereotype them, because some of them are encountering the same problems you are. And believe me, they are mystified, too.

DEAR ABBY: I am a 12-year-old girl who has a lot of friends at school, but lately there has been some tension coming from one of them.

“Belle” missed an event that was very important to her.

She’s usually easygoing, but since then she hasn’t been herself, and it’s starting to worry some of us. We have tried everything from talking about

her favorite topic to trying to write a song for her. Sometimes she acts like herself, but other times she gives me and another friend the silent treatment and the cold shoulder.

Is she a friend worth keeping?

-- CONCERNED FRIEND IN ALABAMA DEAR CONCERNED: You won’t know what’s causing Belle to act the way she is unless you ask her directly.

There may be more going on in her life than you are aware of that has nothing to do with you.

If she’s doing it because she’s hurt and you weren’t at fault, clear the air so she knows it.

But understand that the time to be a friend is when somebody needs one.

for the wife I lost, and she has always shown respect for the way I show my grief. My question is, should I stop buying flowers to honor my first wife once my fiancee and I get married and move into a house of our own? I want her to know that she holds the No. 1 place in my heart. -- TIME TO MOVE ON IN PENNSYLVANIA DEAR TTMO: I’m glad you asked. Although the sentiment behind those flowers is beautiful, I do not think it would be appropriate for you to bring flowers for your late wife into the home you will share with your next one. If you feel the need to honor your first wife, place flowers on her grave on her birthday.

DEAR ABBY: Three years ago, I lost my wife of 32 years.

Every month, on the anniversary of her death, I buy flowers for my house to honor her.

I am now engaged to a wonderful woman. She understands that I will always grieve

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.

Obituaries Mr. Byron Willis Daniel 1939 - 2017 Funeral Service for Mr. Byron Willis Daniel, 78, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Friday, April 14, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Rev. Charles “Skip” Cook, Rev. Mikey Taylor will officiate.

Burial will follow in the Alexander City Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 13, 2017 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home.

Mr. Daniel passed away on Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at Brown

Nursing Home. He was born on January 15, 1939 in Alexander City, Alabama to Kelly Willis Daniel and Mary Emma Daniel. He was an active member of Calvary Heights Baptist Church. He enjoyed traveling, being with his family, and being outdoors working in the yard. He loved children and animals.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Jo Daniel of Alexander City; daughter, Sheila Jean Carver of Alexander City; step-daughters, Debra Kay Fuller (Terry) of Dora, AL, Mickie Lynn Jones (Wayne) of Alexander City, and Kimberly Elaine Johnson (Doug) of Alexander City; step-son, Charles Skip

Waller (Cheryl) of Opelika; 11 grandchildren; and 15 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jimmie Wayne Daniel; and son-in-law, Mark Carver.

The family will accept flowers for the funeral service or memorial contributions can be made to Calvary Heights Baptist Church, 474 7th Way, Alexander City, AL 35010.

Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome. com.

Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Mrs. Oral Lee Hall

Mrs. Lola R. Russell

Mr. Rufus Chapman

Ms. Mable Goodman

Mrs. Oral Lee Hall 81 of Alexander City, AL died Tuesday, April 11, 2017 at her residence.

Funeral service for Mrs. Lola R. Russell 86 of Alexander City, AL; Friday, April 14, 2017;1 p.m.; Armour’s Memorial Chapel, Alexander City, AL. Burial, Alexander City Cemetery.

Funeral Service for Mr. Rufus Chapman will be Friday April 14, 2017 @ 2:00 at Corinth Baptist Church with burial following in Church Cemetery.

Funeral Service for Ms. Mable Goodman will be Friday April 14, 2017 @ 2:00 at Word of Truth Church with burial following in New Life Memorial Garden.

Professional Service Provided by Wright’s Funeral Home Staff.

Professional Service Provided by Wright’s Funeral Home Staff.

Final arrangements entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Services.

Final arrangements entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Services

Police Reports 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.

Public Meetings n Alexander City Board of Education meets on the third Tuesday of each month.

Meetings are held in the board office at 375 Lee St. or local school at 5 p.m. n Alexander City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of each month.

Meetings are held in the courtroom at the old city hall at 5:30 p.m. n Camp Hill Town Council meets the first and third Mondays of each month.

Meetings are held in town hall at 6 p.m. n Coosa County Board of Education holds called meetings at least once a month. n Coosa County Commission meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the Coosa County Courthouse in Rockford at 9:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday and at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday.

Alexander City Police Department April 12

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

April 11

n Coosa County Industrial Development Board will hold its regularly scheduled meeting the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Board Room in the courthouse in Rockford. n Dadeville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. with a premeeting at 5:30 p.m. in city hall. n Daviston City Council meets the third Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the Daviston Fire Department. n Goldville Town Council meets the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the town hall. n Goodwater City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month.

Meetings are held at the Caldwell Center at 6:30 p.m. n Jackson’s Gap Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month.

Meetings are held in town hall at 6:30 p.m. n Kellyton Town Council meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the community center in Kellyton. n New Site City Council meets the first and third Monday of the month at 5 p.m. in the Conference Room in the Town Hall. n Ray Water Authority meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Ray Water Authority Office.

All customers are invited to attend.

• Jaylean Raymond Robinson, 21, of Alexander City was arrested for reckless endangerment.

• Bobby Dale Robinson, 44, of Alexander City was arrested for drug paraphernalia.

• Discharge of a firearm into an unoccupied dwelling was reported in Alexander City.

• Assault was reported in Alexander City.

• Possession of drug paraphernalia was reported in Alexander City.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Criminal trespass and domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle was reported in Alexander City.

• Identity theft was reported in Alexander City.

April 10

• Kadjah Rashay Davis, 22, of Alexander City was arrested for two counts of failure to appear.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Theft was reported in Alexander City.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Harassing communications was reported in Alexander City.

• Criminal mischief was reported in Alexander City.

• Harassing communications was reported in Alexander City.

• Harassing communications was reported in Alexander City.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

April 9

• Darrius Deysean Smickle, 26, of Alexander City was arrested for domestic violence, possession of marijuana, failure to appear and possession of a controlled substance cocaine.

• Theft was reported in Alexander City.

• Theft was reported in Alexander City.

Harassing communications was reported in Alexander City.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Cruelty to animals was reported in Alexander City.

• Harassment was reported in Alexander City.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Unauthorized use of a vehicle was reported in Alexander City.

April 8

• Delon Matry Herron, 24, of Alexander City was arrested for driving under the influence.

• Iesha Monea Wright, 25, of Alexander City was arrested for disorderly conduct.

• Alexus Vonshae Moon, 18, of Alexander City was arrested for disorderly conduct.

Barbara Lacy Ward, 27, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of controlled substance, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine possession.

• Failure to pay for gasoline was reported in Alexander City.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Criminal mischief was reported in Alexander City.

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• Theft was reported in Alexander City.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Dogs or cats unlawfully running at large was reported in Alexander City.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in Alexander City.

• Loud music was reported in Alexander City.

• Possession of controlled substance and possession of marijuana was reported in Alexander City.

April 7

• Gregory Terrell Milliner, 36, of Alexander City was arrested for disorderly conduct and public intoxication.

• Two counts of domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Criminal littering was reported in Alexander City.

• Theft was reported in Alexander City.

• Harassment was reported in Alexander City.

• Chemical endangerment was reported in Alexander City.

• Harassment was reported in Alexander City.

• Burglary was reported in Alexander City.

April 6

• Kelly Hendricks Griffith, 41, of Alexander City was arrested for domestic violence.

• Pamela R. Stowe, 33, of Alexander City was arrested for contempt of court.

• Stephanie Nicole Peters, 30, of Dadeville was arrested for domestic violence.

• Disorderly conduct and public intoxication was reported in Alexander City.

• Criminal trespass was reported in Alexander City.

• Harassment was reported in Alexander City.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander

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• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department April 11

• Conrad Frykman of Lang Street in Griffin, Georgia was arrested for failure to register.

• A resident of Forrest Lakes Lane in Strerrett filed a report for harassment.

• Deatrice Stephens of County Road in Alexander City was arrested on two grand jury indictments for burglary third and theft of property fourth.

April 10

• Jamie Meadows of Coosa County Road 77 in Kellyton was arrested for outstanding warrants for grand jury indictment for obstruction justice false identity and failure to appear obstruction justice false identity.

• Scottie Griffith of Lower Tuskegee Road in Tallassee was arrested on outstanding warrant for grand jury indictment theft of property first.

• A resident of Smith Road in Dadeville filed a report for harassment.

April 9

• A resident of Highway 22 East filed a report for theft of property.

April 7 • A resident of Auburn filed a report for a theft that happened on Sandy Creek Road in Camp Hill.

• Jessie Greer of Tallassee was arrested for two failure to appear warrants through Tallapoosa County.

• Clarence Avery of Lafayette was arrested from the Chambers County Jail for failure to appear warrants through Tallapoosa County.

• Timothy Vignolo of Jacksons Gap was arrested for a failure to appear warrant through Tallapoosa County.

• Cedrick Hunter of Alexander City was arrested for criminal trespass in the third degree.

• Jessie Presley of Lafayette was arrested for a failure to appear warrant through Tallapoosa County.

Thursday, April 13, 2017

Shots

continued from page 1

“It’s only by the grace of God that someone hasn’t been killed,” Turner said. “The person who was injured Tuesday evening is going to be all right. His injuries were not life-threatening. But we have to stop this before someone does.

“As far as a motive, we are hearing that two groups may have had some sort of beef with each other. But this isn’t the way to solve anything.”

Turner announced the arrest of 21-year-old Jaylean Raymond Robinson of Alexander City on charges of reckless endangerment in connection with two separate incidents off J Street in Alexander City.

At about 1 p.m. Tuesday, residents along J Street reported that as many as 13 shots were fired by a person described as a black male wearing a dark blue hooded shirt in the direction of a car as it travelled down J Street. The shots were in the direction of a black Ford Fusion.

About 30 minutes later, officers responded to Koons II convenience store, about two blocks from the first incident, after reports indicated that a subject had fired shots in the area. Police were still close by and were able to take Robinson into custody.

The address for Robinson that is listed on court records is in the same area where the shots were fired in Spring Hill Tuesday night.

“It appears to be retaliation, but we can’t say for sure,” Turner said. “Regardless, it has to stop. If you have people spraying bullets in the direction of people’s homes and occupied vehicles – it’s going to happen. I don’t care what the beef is, it’s not worth taking a life.”

Turner said the shootings came at a time when they already had extra patrols in both areas, due to previous issues. Turner said they plan to use all the resources they have available to stop the gunfire.

“We have reached out to community leaders in hopes of sitting down with people who may be involved,” Turner said. “We hope to set up a meeting. We are talking with witnesses and anyone who may have any information. We plan to put the pressure on to root out some of the criminal element. We plan to use the Tallapoosa County Narcotics Task Force, step up efforts on outstanding warrants and take advantage all of our resources to get to the people responsible.”

The shots along J Street were very close to Stephens Elementary. Classes did not use the playground and outside campus of the school as a precautionary measure Wednesday.

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Ongoing Events

dropped off behind the green storage shed on the Public Works lot.

The facility is always open for unassisted drop off. Assistance with drop off is available between 7:00 am until 3:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday.

Please call 256-409-2020 for more information.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP: Every second and fourth Sunday at 5 p.m. the Trinity campus of First United Methodist Church will be a caregiver support group. Call

GRIEF SHARE: There will be a meeting of Grief Share every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Trinity Campus of First United Methodist Church next door to Russell Medical through June 7.

RECYCLING: The Alexander City Recycling Facility is located at the Public Works Department at 824 Railey Road. All materials should be

256-786-1685 for more information.

TOPS MEETING: Take Off Pounds Sensibly is the short name for TOPS Club, Inc., the original nonprofit, noncommercial network of weight-loss support groups throughout the U.S. and Canada. TOPS offers tools and programs for healthy living and weight management, with exceptional group fellowship and recognition. Established in 1948 to champion weight-loss support and success, we’ve helped millions of

School Board

continued from page 1

seat, what do you hope to accomplish during the next five years?

Kelly Waldrop

With three daughters in the system, he has a personal stake in wanting the schools to succeed. And having spent the past five years on the board, he feels he knows first-hand the challenges facing the Alex City system.

During his first term on the board, they developed a 2020 strategic plan. He stated that most of the goals in this plan have been accomplished, much still remains to be done. One major issue he feels facing the school system right now is the age of the school buildings, some of which date back to the late 1940s and early 1950s. Waldrop believes the next five years are critical for the future of the schools, and as such, wants to expand the 2020 plan to a 2050 plan.

Waldrop wants the board to continue making improvements to the system’s academics, while also expanding career tech fields, as he believes a skilled workforce is key to the community. In addition, he wants the board to develop a series of short and longterm plans, with goals to be reached by 2025, 2035, and 2050.

Vantrice Heard

Heard has a child in Alexander City Schools, and wants to be someone who can help institute change.

She wants to assist in making sure the system can become a 21st Century system, with regards to technology and higher education.

She wants to be a major part of the policy-making decisions that will impact the lives and future education endeavors of the children in the Alex City system.

Heard is key on increasing parental involvement and community engagement with the schools. By being made aware of any curriculum changes, and getting an understanding of what is being taught, parents will be able to be that much more engaged in their child’s education.

Glenda Bland

Bland’s son went through the Alex City system, and had a great experience during that time. In addition to wanting to give back to the community, she wants to help provide the leadership that will make the schools even better than they are now. With her background and experience, she feels she could be a great asset to the board.

Bland truly values education at all levels, from pre-

school to grad school, and understands how important it is to receive a good education. She enjoys working with the youth in Alex City and inspiring them to reach their goals.

Bland would like to provide valuable input to the decisions that will make the system even better, and would like to serve as a liaison between the school board and parents. She wants to be able to listen to the thoughts and ideas parents might have, while also supporting the superintendent and the rest of the board in trying to make the Alexander City School system the best it can possibly be.

Attempts to reach Jeff Hines were unsuccessful but the veteran educator and coach has decades of service to public education. He recently announced his retirement as basketball coach at Benjamin Russell High School.

The interviews are scheduled for the upstairs conference room at Alexander City City Hall, are open to the public. Seating is limited and once interviews begin, the council requests that no one enter or exit to avoid distractions fort the candidates.

McDaniel

continued from page 1

activity with which the Defendant was allegedly involved. The media outlets, including, but not limited to the Alexander City Outlook have included significant portions of documentary and hearsay evidence relative to the Defendant, the admissibility of which has not been considered by this court. This information has severely prejudiced the defendant. The published and other media has been disseminated throughout Tallapoosa County, Alabama.”

A response filed on March 31 by the office of District Attorney Jeremy Duerr asks the court to deny the motion.

“The defendant has failed to show that he could not receive a fair and impartial trial within Dadeville Division of Tallapoosa County due to prejudicial news coverage,” the response reads.

“The state respectfully requests the honorable court to deny the defendant’s Motion for Change of Venue be denied or that a hearing be set on said motion.”

Attached to the motion filed by Whittelsey are

Crucify pulling off to the side of the road to look,” Wright described.

“There were people moved to tears seeing it, and some people were coming up to me for about six months afterwards, telling me how much it had touched them.”

In addition, “29 people professed the faith because of this,” he said.

Page 3

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The Outlook

41 pages of news coverage. Only seven of the 24 items came from the Outlook and one of the stories was actually duplicated in the exhibit that was attached to the motion. A search of the newspapers records found only 18 items that dealt with Crayton’s death and made mention of the charges that McDaniel is facing.

A date was not listed in court records for the motion to be heard, but the case does appear on the plea docket for May 3.

The motion was the latest development in a case that has had many twists and turns, including a bond revocation, shocking testimony in a preliminary hearing and numerous motions seeking the evidence collected by the prosecution.

The case has been widely followed since McDaniel was arrested in the early morning hours of Jan. 17, 2016. Hunters had found Crayton’s body in a wooded area off Barron’s Bridge Road south of Dadeville. Investigators indicated that the victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds.

continued from page 1

According to Wright, one of the main reasons that Mt. Zion has begun holding this event is that he doesn’t want people to go through the Easter season and not realize how worthwhile all of the events that took place during Holy Week really were.

“Anybody and everybody is invited,” Wright said.

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McDaniel saw his case bound over to the Tallapoosa County Grand Jury after a June 28, 2015 preliminary hearing where investigators in the case testified that McDaniel admitted he had shot and killed Crayton in the early morning hours of Jan. 17, 2016, but said it was self-defense.

A murder indictment was handed down by a Tallapoosa County Grand Jury in Dadeville on March 7.

In addition to the murder charge, court records show that Lakeshia Crayton, the executor of Norman Crayton’s estate, filed a wrongful death suit against McDaniel in late December.

Lakeshia Crayton is represented by Montgomery attorney Julian McPhillips.

The language in the lawsuit asks for a judgment against McDaniel for wrongful death and “punitive damages in an amount sufficient to punish the defendant.”

McPhillips said the suit is to aide a woman who “suffers daily following the loss of her husband.”

one test two lives Get tested for HIV.

For you and baby. for more information, call 1-800-228-0469 www.adph.org/hiv

MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213

editor@alexcityoutlook.com

EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Page 4

Our

Thursday, April 13, 2017

Bentley completes Republican trifecta of shame

View

Gun violence is I not the answer

D

o people actually think that toting a gun and shooting it at people’s homes and automobiles make them a man?

It doesn’t. What it does is show their stupidity and proves that they are nothing more than thugs.

In three separate incidents, gunshots rang out in Alexander City and yet again the carelessness in regards to human life sent another victim to the hospital.

We all have to learn that guns and gunfire are no way to settle a dispute.

What happened to discussions and airing grievances so that we all understand where others are coming from?

What happened to turning the other cheek?

Walking away? Respectfully agreeing to disagree?

We’re not sure of the best way to handle confrontation in every situation, but we think we can get pretty close in saying gunfire is not the way.

Recently Benjamin Russell Senior Quen Reese was buried based on a poor decision.

Now two lives are lost.

Just Tuesday, investigators responded to a call of shots fired in the direction of a vehicle in the Laurel Heights community. Not only was it a residential area, but an elementary school is two blocks away. In apparent retaliation, it happened again later that night in Spring Hill and a man took a bullet in the leg.

If there’s one thing the recent events reveal to us it’s this: Bullets do not have a name on them.

Residents in the area commented about they think of those who feel the need to needlessly fire guns.

“If they so bent of shooting, join the military and serve your country,” one resident said. “This is just crazy.”

Great point.

You want to shoot? Try hunting where you can shoot in the woods. Don’t bring that stuff into our neighborhoods. Life is too precious.

One resident said it best.

“We used to read about this stuff happening in other places,” he said. “Now it’s happening here in Alexander City and every small town in this country. Until we get mad and tell these thugs that we won’t stand for it – it won’t stop.”

The Constitution of the United States grants us the right to bear arms. But with that right comes responsibilities, not just for us but also to other people.

When you carry your firearm be slow to anger, and even slower to reach for your firearm to settle an argument. Not only could your life depend on it, but someone else’s could too.

n 2010, now-disgraced former Speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives Mike Hubbard penned a book titled ”Storming the Statehouse.”

It was Hubbard’s account of how the Republicans in Alabama came to own in 2010 the majorities in both the state’s House and Senate for the first time since Reconstruction.

However, the way the Republican super-majority era in our state government has turned out, one wonders if maybe the book wouldn’t have been more aptly titled “Storm In the Statehouse.”

Anyway you slice it, Monday’s resignation of grandfatherly Robert Bentley on the heels of a sex scandal with his chief adviser completes a rather embarrassing trifecta for the Republicans.

Has it ever happened in U.S. history when the heads of a state’s legislative, judicial and executive branches have all been swept out of office within a year?

First, there was the very author of the book that so proudly and vociferously celebrated the Republican rise to prominence in Alabama, Hubbard. The former speaker was found guilty in June 2016 of 12 felony violations of the state ethics law, basically meaning that he used his powerful position as House speaker for personal financial gain.

The most powerful Republican in the state’s legislative branch of government was later sentenced to four years in prison.

Then Alabama Supreme Court Justice Roy Moore – no stranger to controversy even before the messiness of his

DAVID GRANGER Managing Editor

fellow Republicans became so terribly pervasive – was suspended by the Alabama Court of the Judiciary in September 2016 for urging Alabama’s probate judges to defy federal orders regarding gay marriages.

So, if you’re keeping score, now we have laid waste to the both the Republican head of the state government’s legislative and judicial branches.

At least Moore, as much as I disagree with his politics, was removed from his position for taking a stand he believes in moral – or maybe political, but also appealing to certain religious groups.

All that was left was the Luv Guv – Bentley – and his charade to cover-up what amounted to – at the very least – a schoolboy infatuation with a woman years his junior that proved costly and embarrassing to the state’s taxpayers.

One almost felt sorry for Bentley yesterday, knowing that he’d lost his job, his pension, his wife of five decades and his personal and political respect. Somehow, he managed to belly up to the gubernatorial podium one last time to apologize, step aside and complete Alabama’s Republican trifecta of political shame.

And, yet, when the next election rolls around, many Alabamians will do nothing more than look for the candidates with the elephants beside their names.

My fellow Alabamians, you have been cheated, lied to, elected powerful men who wanted nothing more than to line their personal pockets.

And why? Because you are tied to a single party and that party is having a party at your expense.

Our government is best, both on the federal and state levels, when there are two strong parties that will occasionally work together for the common good. And, even if that occurrence is rare, is it better to have a single party take advantage of the positions you’ve put them in – not to help you, but to help themselves and their friends?

I do believe that our new Gov. Kay Ivey will, as best she can, serve us honestly and well, as she said in her brief remarks after she was hurriedly sworn in on Monday afternoon. But we have seen at least three occasions where that has not been the case – and the three men involved have each occupied the most stratospheric position in their particular branch of our state’s government – yet we keep pulling Republican levers and not even considering an alternative.

If you taste your milk and find it’s gone bad do you put it back in the refrigerator with the thought that maybe it will be better later?

No. You buy more, fresher milk.

And if you’re smart, maybe you’ll even try a different brand.

Granger is the managing editor of the Elmore County newspapers of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

Know Your

Jim Nabors

Bobby Tapley

Buffy Colvin represents District 2. Her phone number is 256-750-0663.

Her address is 786 I Street, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Buildings and Property committee.

Buffy Colvin

Scott Hardy represents District 3. His phone number is 256-4962450. His address is 549 Sleepy Hollow Drive, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Parks and Recreation committee.

Scott Hardy

Eric Brown represents District 4. His phone number is 256-3972011. His address is 1421 Parrish Drive, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Public Works committee.

Eric Brown

Tommy Spraggins represents District 5.

His phone number is 256-234-3609. His address is 1539 College Street, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of Finance committee.

Tommy Spraggins

Tim Funderburk represents District 6.

His phone number is 256-825-2993. His address is 1431 River Oaks, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of Utilities committee.

Tim Funderburk

“To rule is easy, to govern is difficult.”

– Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Today’s

Scripture

“About that time Hezekiah became deathly ill. He prayed to the Lord, who healed him and give him a miraculous sign. But Hezekiah did not respond appropriately to the kindness shown him, and he became proud. So the Lord’s anger came against him. . . “ – 2 Chronicles 32:24-25

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Mission

The Outlook strives to report the news honestly, fairly and with integrity, to take a leadership role and act as a positive influence in our community, to promote business, to provide for the welfare of our employees, to strive for excellence in everything we do and above all, to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves.

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Bobby Tapley represents District 1. His phone number is 256392-0344. His address is 1821 LaVista Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Public Safety committee.

Quote

How to

Officials

Jim Nabors is mayor of Alexander City. His phone number at city hall is 256-329-6730 and his home number is 256329-1320 His address at city hall is 4 Court Square; Alexander City, AL, 35010. His home address is 1695 Magnolia Street Alexander City, AL, 35010.

Today’s

J

A great example of living the big life

ane and I were recently out for breakfast when we were asked if we’d mind sitting at a community table.

The table sat eight people. We like meeting new people, so we said, “Sure!” To my surprise, Ernie Johnson, Jr., and his wife, Cheryl, also were seated at our table.

Perhaps some of you don’t know who Ernie Johnson, Jr., is, so let me fill you in. He is one of the best sports announcers in the nation.

I have listened to him announce pro baseball, NBA basketball, and PGA golf. As a sports fan, trust me….EJ is a star. And, since I am a huge sports fan I was pretty pumped about being seated at a table on a Saturday morning with Ernie, his wife and four other strangers.

The conversation flowed easily between the Johnson’s and us. Cheryl is a licensed professional counselor. She was warm and engaging as was he. We talked about our careers and our families. Ernie and Cheryl told us about their two biological children Eric, and Maggie.

They also told us about their four adopted children, a son Michael, from Romania, a daughter Carmen, adopted from Paraguay and daughters Ashley and Allison adopted domestically through foster care. They talked of the joys

of superiority. They entered into community with us that Saturday morning. We started as strangers and left as friends.

We genuinely felt a heart conRAY WATERS nection. Then, they picked up the tab for the whole table.

Columnist They didn’t have to. It wasn’t and the difficulties they had for show. They wanted to. To faced as parents. me, they are great examples of Through the entire meal people who get what it means they not only displayed rare to live the big life. They really transparency with their story, do make everywhere they go a but they seemed genuinely better place just because they interested in Jane and me. have passed by.

They listened intently to us Ernie recently wrote a book describing our family, our that was published earlier this dreams and our struggles. It month called, Unscripted: The was just a beautiful breakfast. Unpredictable Moments That One of the best I have ever Make Life Extraordinary. known.

I bought it last night for my Shortly before the end of Kindle and will begin reading the meal, Cheryl excused her- it after I get home from church self, I thought probably to go on Easter Sunday. I imagine to the restroom. She returned the book will be incredibly to our table and we talked a entertaining as Ernie tells little more and then it was time stories of growing up around to go. When I inquired about professional sports and now our bill, our server told me the from his vantage spot of the table had been taken care of. voice of the Braves and NBA It was then I realized Cheryl Basketball. had paid the bill when she had I also imagine the book will stepped away. The Johnson’s give us a glimpse behind the had paid for the six strangers scenes of a family that is pretty that had eaten at their table. remarkable. I will always We were shocked. We thanked be grateful for that Saturday them, grabbed a quick picture morning when our paths and went on our way. crossed.

Ernie and Cheryl Johnson are big deals. But more Ray Waters is a columnist importantly, they are really for The Outlook. good people. When they met us they did not put on airs

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.

What’s your

Opinion?

We’d like to share your thoughts and opinions with the greater Lake Martin community. It’s free and it only takes a few moments of your time. We have two ways to get your opinion in print: letters to the editor and guest columns. The main difference is length. Letters to the editor are up to 250 words, while guest columns can be up to 500 words. Letters and columns may be sent to P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011, faxed to (256) 2346550 or e-mailed to editor@alexcityoutlook.com. Please include your name, address and phone number.

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Thursday, April 13, 2017

The Outlook

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Page 5

Mamie’s Place celebrates Easter with story time and special guest Mamie’s Place Children’s Library at the Adelia Russell Library held a special story time Wednesday to help celebrate Easter. The Easter Bunny was there and children got to take part in making Easter decorations and an egg hunt. The event coincided with National Library Week

Donald Campbell / The Outlook

Service at Wind Creek State Park at 7 a.m.

EASTER MUSICAL: Lake Pointe Baptist Church on Highway 50 in Dadeville is presenting “Resurrection Power Musical” April 16 at 10 a.m.

Saturday, April 15 For more information call 334-415-9029.

EGGSTRAVAGANZA: The New Style Baptist Church will be hosting an EASTER MUSICAL: The choir at Calvary Baptist Church in Dadeville will Easter Eggstravaganza Saturday, April 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be an perform “Because He Lives” April 16 at 11 a.m. followed by the Lord’s Supper. egg hunt, bouncy house, prizes, games and a dj. Refreshments will be served.

For more information call 256-794-6684.

EGG HUNT: First United Methodist Church of Alexander City is hosting its EASTER MUSICAL: The Faith Temple Choir, FTC Children’s Choir and music annual community Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 15 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the Green Street Campus. There will be egg hunts for all ages, inflatables, treats ministries will present an Easter musical “The Tomb is Empty Now, Sunday April 16 at 10:30 a.m. The musical portrays the Passion of the Christ through a and a visit from the Easter Bunny. The United Methodist Women will also be stunning array of celebratory and thought provoking songs. selling Easter baked goods.

EASTER SERVICE: New Hope Baptist Church on Lake Martin is holding a AWARDS LUNCHEON: The Central Alabama Club of NANBPWC, Inc. is sunrise service Sunday, April 16 at 6:30 a.m., a worship service at 11 a.m., lunch hosting its 15th Anniversary Awards Luncheon Saturday, April 15 at the Bledsoe at noon and an egg hunt at 2 p.m.

Family Center at 1854 Lashley Road at 1 p.m. Last chance for tickets, call 256For more information contact Lou Ann Fuller at 256-329-2510 or 256-794329-1595 or 256-215-6933.

2315.

EGG HUNT: The Soul Brothers are hosting an Easter Egg Hunt April 15 from SUNRISE SERVICE: Comer United Methodist Church is hosting a sunrise 1 p.m. until at the Cooper Rec Center Playground with food and fun. Everyone is service at 6 a.m. welcome.

EASTER CANTATA: Comer United Methodist Church is hosting an Easter EGG HUNT: GAP Fellowship Church at 721 Robinson Court is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 15 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on the church grounds. Cantata at 11 a.m.

EASTER MUSICAL: Hillabee Baptist Church is hosting an Easter Musical and Bring your own basket. drama April 16 at 10:30 a.m.

Sunday, April 16 EASTER SERVICES: St. James Episcopal Church is hosting Easter Day SUNRISE SERVICE: The Church of the Living Waters is hosting a Sunrise Services. At 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. is Holy Eucharist and an Easter Brunch will Service April 16 at 6:30 a.m. Rev. John Mann will be the guest speaker with be held at 9 a.m. special music by Betty Burke. Dress is casual and childcare is not provided.

SUNRISE SERVICE: Church of the Living Waters in Stillwaters is having a SUNRISE SERVICE: Mt. Zion Baptist Church is hosting its annual Sunrise

EASTER CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Meet them meet us,” Principal Jamie Forbus said. “Starting kindergarten is a big step and we hope this helps make them feel more comfortable.”

Forbus then talked to the students.

“I am here to make sure that you are safe,” Forbus said. “I’m here to make sure you have fun and learn everything that you possibly can. So when you see me in the hall every day, if I can help you in anyway, talk to me. That’s what I am here for.”

The future students participated in an interactive song called “Bubble Gum, Bubble Gum, learned their ABCs through two different songs and heard Pete the Cat’s I Love My White Shoes and Henny Penny, during story time.

There were introduced to the entire staff and got to spend time with other students who are at the school now.

They heard about a summer reading program from Ellen Martin who encouraged them to start their learning this summer.

There was a video presentation, songs and then they got a long look around campus.

“This is always a big day here,” Forbus said. “We are excited to have them here and we are looking forward to them being part of our family here at Jim Pearson.

continued from page 1

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

Jim Pearson students and staff rolled out the red carpet for more than 100 future students of the school with their annual Meet and Greet Session Wednesday

Page 6

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CommunityCalendar Need Insurance?

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Today is

April 13, 2017 Today’s Events

BOOK SIGNING: Dr. Drew Huffman will be at the Adelia M. Russell Memorial Library April 13 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. signing his book “Screw This.”

Thursday, April 13, 2017

The Outlook

MAUNDY THURSDAY: Comer United Methodist Church is hosting a Maundy Thursday service April 13 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

HOLY WEEK SERVICES: St. James Episcopal Church is hosting Holy Week Services at noon daily with Lenten lunches afterwards.

Thursday, April 13 Rev. Dr. Emerson Ware of Great Bethel Baptist Church is the guest preacher.

MAUNDY THURSDAY: St. James Episcopal Church is hosting a

Submit calendar items:

Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/.

Maundy Thursday service at 6 p.m.

Today’s Anniversaries

Mr. and Mrs. Don Kennedy and Richie and Denise Stowes are celebrating an anniversary.

Today’s Birthdays

Marilyn Oliver, Hilda M. Locke, Amanda Fuller, Jim Fulmer, Charlie Reaves and Chastity Parker are celebrating a birthday.

The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow

The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for Weekend Shifts in Direct Care.

Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Brinda Bell (334) 252-0025, Ext. 101

256.234.3481

Email: bbell@learning-tree.org

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• • • • •

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700

Alexander City Outlook Dadeville Record Wetumpka Herald Eclectic Observer Tallassee Tribune

haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com Submitted / The Outlook

The Hyssongs will be at Bay Pine Baptist Church Friday, April 21 at 7 p.m.

Now – April 15

Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy 2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com

Come Visit Us! Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing

The FANS HEAR You!

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256.234.4281

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Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

By e-mailing your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or call 256-234-4281. _____ Send your news items to editor@alexcityoutlook.com

FREE TAX ASSISTANCE: Beginning Jan. 30, free tax and electronic tax filing assistance at Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama, Inc., 5030 Hwy 280, Alex City, AL IRS certified volunteers will provide the free tax assistance and electronically file federal and state income tax forms. The free tax sites are designed to assist seniors 60+ (with no income limit), taxpayers under age 60 with incomes less than $54,000, and disabled taxpayers. Taxpayers will be assisted in the order they are registered. Please do not bring people to the site not involved in the filing of your taxes due to the limited space.

Waiting may be necessary.

Volunteers will provide free tax assistance and electronically file federal and state income tax forms at Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama, Inc. beginning Jan. 25.

Please arrive and register for assistance at least one hour before closing time.

April 1 to April 15 - Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays --- 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Information You Must Bring To The Tax Site: The following information is required by the IRS: last year’s tax return; photo ID-driver’s license-for taxpayer and spouse; social security cards for taxpayers and dependants; W-2’s; and 1099’s B, R, and SSA 1099. If you have health insurance through the government marketplace, bring your 1095-A. ALL employed taxpayers should bring a copy of their year-end pay stub. In regards to the itemized deduction list, you should bring all the documentation that applies to you. Even if you do not itemize on your Federal taxes you may be able to do so on your State return.

For more info call (256) 234-0347.

ENROLLMENT APPLICATIONS: Faith Christian Academy is accepting applications for the 2017-2018 school year. Applications may be picked up at Faith Temple Church on the corner of Franklin and Gorgas Streets. For more information call 256-234-6421.

HEAD START RECRUITMENT: The Head Start Program of Chambers-Tallapoosa is now taking applications for the 2017-2018 program for 3 and 4-year-old children.

If you have any questions concerning recruitment call Head Start in Dadeville at 256-825-4204 or any Head Start Center.

April 11-15

NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK: The Adelia M. Russell Library and Mamie’s Place Children’s Library is joining libraries across the nation to celebrate National Library Week April 9-15.

April 14

EASTER BAKE SALE: USAmeriBank is having an Easter Bake Sale Friday, April 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its main office. There will also be $5 tickets for a chance at an Easter Basket valued $500 will be given away. All proceeds will go to the Tallapoosa County Relay for Life.

TENEBRAE SERVICE: Comer United Methodist Church is hosting a Tenebrae service April 14 at 7 p.m.

HOLY WEEK SERVICES: St. James Episcopal Church is hosting Holy Week Services at noon daily with Lenten lunches afterwards.

Friday, April 14 Rev. John Verciglio of First United Methodist Church is the guest preacher.

GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE: St. James Episcopal Church is hosting a

Good Friday Service at 6 p.m.

EGG HUNT: Kellyton First United Methodist Church is hosting an egg hunt April 14 from 4:30 p..m. to 5:30 p.m. Hotdogs will be served from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

April 14-16

CRUCIFIXION REENACTMENT: Mt. Zion Baptist Church is creating the Crucifixion of Christ reenactment from 12 p.m to 6 p.m. April 14 is the “Crucifixion,” April 15 is the “tomb” and April 16 “He is Risen.”

April 15

COMMUNITY PRAYER: The Darian Missionary Baptist Church family and prayer team are offering prayer to the community April 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot on the corner of Laurel and E streets across from Stephens School.

CAR SHOW: The 16th Annual Klassic Kruisers Fundraiser, car show, swap meet and car corral will be April 15 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. across from the New Site City Hall on Highway 22.

Registration is $20 and must be registered by March 31 to qualify for a preentry $100 drawing. For information call Susan Gamble at 256-234-4975.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST: There will be a pancake breakfast at the New Site Fire Department starting at 6 a.m.

TRADE DAY: Bibb Graves High School Alumni Monthly Trade Day in Millerville on Highway 9 between Ashland and Goodwater will be April 15 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vendors are inside the old school and many items are available.

BAKE SALE: The First United Methodist Women’s Bake Sale will be April 15 from 9 a.m. to noon at 310 Green Street in the Fellowship Hall. There will be baked and canned goods for sale for Easter festivities.

EGGSTRAVAGANZA: The New Style Baptist Church will be hosting an Easter Eggstravaganza Saturday, April 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be an egg hunt, bouncy house, prizes,games and a dj. Refreshments will be served.

SACRED HARP SINGING: The Futral, Nelson, Henry Memorial Sacred Harp Singing will be Saturday, April 15 at Smyrna Primitive Baptist Church located on County Road 83 east of Goodwater at 9:30 a.m. Lunch will be served at noon with more singing in the afternoon. Bring a covered dish.

For more information contact William Futral at 256-839-6670 or Jack Nelson at 256-839-5344.

EGG HUNT: First United Methodist Church of Alexander City is hosting its annual community Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 15 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the Green Street Campus.

There will be egg hunts for all ages, inflatables, treats a visit from the Easter Bunny. The United Methodist Women will also be selling Easter baked goods.

AWARDS LUNCHEON: The Central Alabama Club of NANBPWC, Inc. is hosting its 15th Anniversary Awards Luncheon Saturday, April 15 at the Bledsoe Family Center at 1854 Lashley Road at 1 p.m. Last chance for tickets, call 256-329-1595 or 256215-6933.

EGG HUNT: The Soul Brothers are hosting an Easter Egg Hunt April 15 from 1 p.m. until at the Cooper Rec Center Playground with food and fun.

Everyone is welcome.

EGG HUNT: GAP Fellowship Church at 721 Robinson Court is hosting an Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 15 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on the church

grounds. Bring your own basket.

April 16

SUNRISE SERVICE: The Church of the Living Waters is hosting a Sunrise Service April 16 at 6:30 a.m.

Rev. John Mann will be the guest speaker with special music by Betty Burke. Dress is casual and childcare is not provided.

SUNRISE SERVICE: Mt. Zion Baptist Church is hosting its annual Sunrise Service at Wind Creek State Park at 7 a.m.

EASTER MUSICAL: Lake Pointe Baptist Church on Highway 50 in Dadeville is presenting “Resurrection Power Musical” April 16 at 10 a.m.

For more information call 334-4159029.

EASTER MUSICAL: The choir at Calvary Baptist Church in Dadeville will perform “Because He Lives” April 16 at 11 a.m. followed by the Lord’s Supper. For more information call 256794-6684.

EASTER MUSICAL: The Faith Temple Choir, FTC Children’s Choir and music ministries will present an Easter musical “The Tomb is Empty Now, Sunday April 16 at 10:30 a.m.

The musical portrays the Passion of the Christ through a stunning array of celebratory and thought provoking songs.

EASTER SERVICE: New Hope Baptist Church on Lake Martin is holding a sunrise service Sunday, April 16 at 6:30 a.m., a worship service at 11 a.m., lunch at noon and an egg hunt at 2 p.m.

For more information contact Lou Ann Fuller at 256-329-2510 or 256794-2315.

SUNRISE SERVICE: Comer United Methodist Church is hosting a sunrise service at 6 a.m.

EASTER CANTATA: Comer United Methodist Church is hosting an Easter Cantata at 11 a.m.

EASTER MUSICAL: Hillabee Baptist Church is hosting an Easter Musical and drama April 16 at 10:30 a.m.

EASTER SERVICES: St. James Episcopal Church is hosting Easter Day Services. At 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. is Holy Eucharist and an Easter Brunch will be held at 9 a.m.

SUNRISE SERVICE: Church of the Living Waters in Stillwaters is having a sunrise service at 6:30 a.m.

April 18

RETIREE MEETING: The Tallapoosa County Education Retirees will meet Tuesday, April 18 at 10 a.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. The program will be on tornado preparedness.

April 19

COUNTDOWN TO COLLEGE WORKSHOP: Tuskegee University is sponsoring a Countdown to College Workshop for Parents and teens in 8th to 12th grade Wednesday, April 19 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Benjamin Russell High School Gym.

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April 20

ARTS ASSOCIATION: There will be a meeting of the Artists Association of Central Alabama April from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. There will be a demonstration and practice on weaving an old watercolor into another and general painting.

April 21

GOSPEL SINGING: The Hyssongs will be at Bay Pine Baptist Church Friday, April 21 at 7 p.m.

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Thursday, April 13, 2017

The Outlook

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The Outlook

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Thursday, April 13, 2017

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Radney Elementary hosts pep rally to get pumped about ACT, ASPIRE tests

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

In order to get students prepared for the upcoming ACT ASPIRE test next week, Radney Elementary School held a pep rally on Wednesday afternoon. Written by the same group that prepares the ACT college entrance exam, the ASPIRE test takes the place of the old ARMT (Alabama Reading and Math Test).

The event began with a handful of cheers led by the Benjamin Russell cheerleader squad, while the main part of the pep rally revolved around recognizing those who had made significant gains on the test over the past couple of years.

“The students wearing hats today, we wanted to recognize as having made gains of at least 45%,” Ashley Kean, Radney’s assistant principal, said. “Those who chose not to wear a hat wore a sticker, so that they could also be recognized.”

“Over half of the school reached this threshold,” she added.

The test is completely digital, and students have been practicing for this all school year by working on Chromebooks so that they wouldn’t be overwhelmed when it came test time.

“Since everything is going digital, we want the kids to be better prepared for the future,” Kean said.

Consisting of five subjects, English, reading, math, science, and writing, the students will take one test a day, with the exception of Monday, when both the English and writing tests will be administered.

On each day of testing, the morning will begin with students reciting a pledge they signed, which reminds them to do their best and not to get frustrated.

“They’ll say it every day before the test to get them in the right frame of mind,” Kean explained.

While a letter was sent out to parents last week, Kean wanted to remind the students and their parents how important it was for the students to get a good night’s sleep every night during test week, as well as making sure they eat breakfast in the morning. Lastly, “We want all of our students to be present and on time.

Everyone who shows up for all four test days will receive a reward,” she mentioned.

Donald Campbell / The Outlook

Cheerleaders from Benjamin Russell High School lead chants and get the crowd pumping at Wednesday’s pep rally to inspire students to reach their testing goals.

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Thursday, April 13, 2017

www.alexcityoutlook.com

JOE MCADORY Sports Columnist

Be careful of life’s precious moments L

aunch was flawless. The scraped, old Wilson golf ball sailed high into the blue Alabama sky before crashing to the turf – precisely where it was supposed to crash. Then it rolled.

And rolled. And rolled some more … until it vanished.

My son, Joseph, was only 11, but was beginning to outplay me and his tee shot on Grand National’s No. 5, 120-yard, Short Course was a thing of beauty. But did it drop into the hole, or did it roll off the back edge of the green? Sometimes it’s hard to tell from the tee box.

We zipped down the cart path to search for the missing ball.

Sure enough, that scraped, old Wilson laid still in the cup. What a momentous occasion for my son, who had been playing this sport he loved for about five years at the time. A hole-in-one! I’m 48 and I haven’t come within a foot. Some folks play all their lives without scoring an ace.

“Put that ball in a safe place inside your bag,” I instructed Joseph. “You’re going to want to keep it forever.”

Watching Matt Kuchar hit a remarkable hole-in-one on the 16th hole of Sunday’s Masters reminded me of that beautiful day. The tall Georgia Tech grad grabbed the ball from the cup and gave it to a young fan. That’s great sportsmanship, but jeez, if I ever made an ace at Augusta National I’d have a hard time giving the ball away.

Seguing back to our glorious April afternoon on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Joseph and I approached the Short Course’s 140-yard eighth hole, which might be the most majestic and photogenic hole on the course.

Lake Saugahatchee separates the tee box from a large, pedestal green. The carry over water calls for a perfect strike, particularly from someone as swingchallenged as myself.

Standing behind the cart before approaching the tee box, I had my 4-iron and tee in hand. All I needed was a ball. Ah, there’s one … sitting all by itself inside a mesh pocket of Joseph’s bag.

I teed it up, took a few practice swings, a deep breath, then let her rip.

There are things in life that fathers always regret. I can’t speak for all of us, or what those things might be. Sometimes we don’t spend enough time with our children. Sometimes we are short with our kids after a long day, or when we are faced with adversity they have nothing to do with. Sometimes we don’t provide what our children need, but make ourselves number one instead.

There are things we do, or moments in life that we simply cannot take back. Life doesn’t give us a giant eraser for our mistakes.

Moving forward, all we can do is the best we can and try to be better parents each day, and perhaps set an example for future generations.

I really screwed up that day I unknowingly grabbed Joseph’s special hole-in-one Wilson golf ball and tried to strike it beyond that giant water hazard. Like I said … there are mistakes we can never take back and some golf balls we can never retrieve.

Moments later, Joseph asked, “Dad, where’s my hole-in-one ball? It’s not where I put it.” My heart sank as I realized which ball I’d hit.

Whew! Good thing I hit the shot of my life and stuck the ball within 10 feet of the hole.

Joe McAdory is Communications Editor at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business.

WINNER TAKE ALL Wildcats need one win over Wetumpka today to make playoffs

By CORY DIAZ The Wetumpka Herald

Fresh off a 1-0 win over Wetumpka Tuesday, Benjamin Russell baseball coach Richy Brooks put today’s matchup with the Indians in perspective.

The win moved Ben Russell (18-14, 2-1) one game closer to a return trip to the 6A playoffs, needing to avoid a sweep from Wetumpka (14-16, 1-2) Thursday at Brooks-Jordan Field at the Charles E. Bailey Sportsplex at 4:30 p.m.

“I don’t care how you win, they don’t ask you that later. That was our 32 nd ballgame, and we play one Thursday and that’s the one that matters,” Brooks said. “If Wetumpka beats us, we’ll have to play the second one and win it.

We’re in good position, but we have not done anything yet. We’re proud of the win, but we know there’s more work to do, too.”

The Wildcats showed Tuesday they can beat you in many ways. Benjamin Russell got great pitching and defense and then took advantage of some key Wetumpka mistakes.

Four errors in the fourth inning opened the baselines for senior Austin Elliott to score as Benjamin Russell squeaked by Wetumpka, 1-0, in the pivotal Class 6A, Area 6 series opener Tuesday at Bazemore Field.

Locked in a pitching battle between the Indians’ junior starter James Duer and the Wildcats’ senior starter Connor Brooks, who gave up a combined three hits on the day, Elliott pounced on WHS’s defensive miscues, reaching on potential double play throwing error to first, and later scoring on a Duer pick error at second base with two outs.

“I thought both pitchers were outstanding,” Ben Russell head baseball coach Richy Brooks said.

“Their guy was good, I mean, we never really

Cory Diaz / The Wetumpka Herald

Benjamin Russell senior shortstop Timmy Lawson, above tags out Wetumpka senior Hayden Pickens in a rundown Tuesday. Below, Benjamin Russell senior pitcher Connor Brooks throws a pitch against Wetumpka.

saw him. We stole the run and we knew we had to at that juncture because we weren’t getting any good swings.”

Before the fourth, Elliott had gotten the lone hit off Duer, who struck out nine and only gave up two hits and one walk in the complete game loss.

“We threw the ball well on the mound, we did outstanding on the mound,” Tribe head coach Mark Davis said. “That one inning in the fourth inning, we kick one, kick two, next thing you know, we’re sitting right there with them scoring an easy one with two outs. We can’t do that.

We can’t beat good teams making that many errors in one inning. It basically came down to one inning baseball game.”

Senior leadoff batter Jacob McClellan opened the game with an infield hit, but Wetumpka failed to rattle Brooks, who earned the victory giving up the one hit and one walk while

fanning eight in the complete game effort. WHS managed just two runners in scoring position the whole game.

“I can’t say enough about him. He goes home with me every night, so I kind of challenged him, you know,” Richy Brooks said of his son. “Connor was a kid last year that didn’t get to pitch because

he had labrum problems.

We missed him the whole year. I fed him that this was his opportunity that he missed out on last year, not pitching in the playoffs for us.

“This was his opportunity and he seized the moment. I’ve got to tip my hat to him. He came out, took the challenge, held them and did a great job.”

Tigers to host Beauregard, BRHS after weekend spilt

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

The Dadeville Baseball team spilt in Eclectic last weekend as the Tigers lost the first game 4-3 but turned it around at the plate winning the second game 17-2.

“We just didn’t wake up in the first game,” Coach Kyle Caldwell said.

“Elmore County also had a good pitcher

on the mound.”

In the second game, Caldwell said something just clicked for the Tigers.

“They just came out a swinging,” Caldwell said. “We scored in every inning.”

The Tigers play again today at Horseshoe Bend at 1:30 p.m. with the junior varsity to follow. The Tigers then host a double header Saturday with

Beauregard coming to town and will celebrate senior night Monday as the Tigers host Benjamin Russell at 5 p.m.

The Tiger Junior Varsity team swept Elmore County Saturday and was highlighted with a homerun by Alex Sims.

The JV also swept Valley Tuesday as Dillon McKenzie had a good day on the mound for the Tigers.

A Senior Send Off

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

The Benjamin Russell Lady Wildcats thanked their three seniors for their contributions to the program.

Jazmin Miller, Radney Beauchamp and Taylor Phillips were joined by family as there were honored before Tuesday’s game against Reeltown.