April 28, 2018 Alex City Outlook

Weekend The Outlook

CALENDAR, 5 Looking for something fun to do this weekend?

Lighting h the h way for f Alexander l d City C & Lake k Martin since 1892 892

April 28-29, 2018 Vol. 126, No. 85 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢

ARRESTS, 9 Read the latest reports from area law officers

Owens inducted into Hall of Fame A

lexander City native Terrell Owens has been inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame with the official induction taking place tonight at the Sheraton Ballroom in Birmingham. To read the full story from Friday’s media luncheon and get an in-depth look into Owens’ career and accomplishments, see the sports section inside on Page 11 today. Owens even talks about his hometown and struggles during his time as a Benjamin Russell Wildcat. To see a live interview of Owens with sports editor Lizi Arbogast, check out the Alexander City Outlook on Facebook. Right, Owens checks out his display at the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.

Photos by Lizi Arbogast

Local Realtor loses licenses Langston fined for handling of funds

SPORTS | PAGE 12

AREA SOFTBALL

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Generals can’t hang on vs. Elmore County

A longtime local Realtor has been fined and seen his licenses revoked by the Alabama Real Estate Commission.

According to the minutes from a March 22 meeting of the commission, Michael Langston, formerly of The Lake Martin See LANGSTON • Page 3

LOCAL | PAGE 10

MEGA HEART Russell Medical holds heart education event

‘PUTTING ON A SHOW’ Former ACJC singers to present ‘Songs from our Past’

LOCAL | PAGE 2

By MITCH SNEED Editor

SCOTT ROAD

A group of singers who were part of a special era in music at what was then called Alexander City Junior College have a special night of music planned for the community.

Alexander City State Junior College Reunion Singers will present “Songs from our Past” on Saturday, May 5 at CACC’s Betty Carol Graham Technology Center at 6 p.m.

ACJC alumni Bucky Heard will also return to perform at this reunion concert. Heard is originally See SINGERS • Page 3

Bridge work expected to be done late May OBITUARIES | 2 OPINION | 4 RELIGION | 6 ARRESTS | 9

Submitted / Bucky Heard

Dadeville’s Bucky Heard performs, and, above with Bill Medley, commands a big presence on stage in Las Vegas as the Righteous Brothers.

Low

Lake Martin

Lake Levels

490.39 Reported on 04/27/18 @ 4 p.m.

LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443

laceyshowell@gmail.com 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL

6

54708

90050

USPS Permit # 013-080

8

Russell Medical Center recently received a rating of “A” in the category of patient safety from the national non-profit health care ratings organization The Leapfrog Group.

Of the 2,479 hospitals measured in the Spring 2018 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade survey, Russell Medical was one of 750 across the country, and one of only seven in the state of Alabama, who received a grade of “A,” based on its performance in preventing medical errors, infections and other harms that can be avoided.

In order to calculate the overall grade, The Leapfrog Group measured each of the hospitals See HOSPITAL • Page 3

College Alabama for high FAFSA completion rate

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Earlier this year, the non-profit organization Alabama Possible recognized Benjamin Russell High School for showing growth in early FAFSA registration from seniors.

Alabama Possible is once again recognizing Benjamin Russell for its commitment to having seniors be financially prepared to attend college.

A recent release from Alabama Possible and the group’s Cash for College Alabama campaign said See BRHS • Page 9

More than 400 children in the area have graduated from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library over the last three years with the help of the Alexander City Rotary Club and another 470 are enrolled.

Thursday night, the club hosted a dinner for invited guests seeking members to join the “Friends of the Imagination Library” to continue the program through the club’s 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation.

The library and the books it supplies See READING • Page 3

Weather BRHS honored by Cash for High

STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Rotary club hosts dinner, talks efforts to get more local children reading

Today’s

77 47

Russell Medical earns highest grade for patient safety

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Skylar Smith reads from “The Three Little Pigs” Thursday night as the Alexander City Rotary Club hosted a fundraising dinner for Imagination Library.

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Mom still marks anniversary of marriage ending in divorce

Sunday

73 44 Low

High Sunny

Monday

77 52 Low

High Sunny

Staff

Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Amy Passaretti Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, Ext. 228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com

Weekend Edition, April 28-29, 2018

The Outlook

Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com Santana Wood Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 santana.wood@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Katie Wesson Retail Sales Manager, Ext. 232 tkatie.wesson@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Digital Marketing Coordinator, Ext. 231 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com

DEAR ABBY: My parents were separated for most of my life and divorced 10 years ago.

Dad and I don’t talk much, but we do get together for special occasions and visits during vacations. Mom and I speak frequently and see each other as often as possible.

My problem is, when I talk about doing things with Dad, she makes me feel guilty for not inviting her -- even when my family is going to stay the night at Dad’s. And every year on the date of their anniversary, Mom never fails to remind me how long they would have been married that year. It’s uncomfortable, and I have told her that, but every year I get the call wondering why I haven’t acknowledged their anniversary.

Am I wrong in thinking it’s strange to wish someone happy anniversary when the couple is no longer together and hasn’t been for a decade? Am I wrong for not inviting her along for the

DEAR ABBY Advice

few visits with my dad? I’m at the point where I avoid talking about him, but I can’t lie when I’m asked directly what our plans are. How can I stop these uncomfortable conversations?

-- UNCOMFORTABLE IN THE SOUTH DEAR UNCOMFORTABLE: Please stop letting your mother make you feel guilty. You have done nothing wrong. She is acting like she’s still married to your father and their divorce is simply a “vacation” he has taken.

If she asks if she can come with you when you visit your dad, an appropriate response would be to suggest she ask HIM that question. And her

expecting to be congratulated for the anniversary of a marriage that failed strikes me as bizarre. Because these conversations make you uncomfortable, change the subject or talk with her another time.

DEAR ABBY: My husband owns a restaurant. It’s a demanding endeavor, and I help him out by running weekly errands, marketing, and occasionally fronting money for larger purchases or unplanned expenses. Generally, I don’t mind. I have years of hospitality experience and some schooling in the field.

For the past few days, I have been fuming because my husband hired a man with whom we have a bad history.

He dates my cousin and has been blatantly rude to my family. He has taken advantage of their kindness and turned my cousin into someone she was not before. (She’s doing drugs.)

When I asked my husband if he really thought this was a smart choice, he said, “You don’t own the restaurant.

It’s none of your business!”

I disagree. Shouldn’t I have a say when I help that place function week after week?

Or is he right? -- MIFFED IN MISSOULA DEAR MIFFED: When you asked your husband the question you did, it clearly hit a nerve or he wouldn’t have become defensive. Because you have been putting money into the business to keep it going, you should be able to offer an opinion about how it is run and have it be respected.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 219 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 219 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com Erin Burton Office Assistant, Ext. 204 erin.burton@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 Publish- printing press. ers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.

Postal

Information

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 Angelette Stowes

Ms. Angelette Stowes passed away Friday, April 27, 2018 at Russell Medical. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by Wright’s Funeral Home

Eddie Goggans

Mr. Eddie Goggans passed away Friday, April 27, 2018 at Russell Medical. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by Wright’s Funeral Home

How to submit obituaries Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by email at obits@alexcityoutlook.com For more information, call 256-234-4281 SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law 135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL

825-9559 No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

Joey Jones / First in Media

Scott Road Bridge project expected to be complete in late May This aerial image taken by Joey Jones of First In Media shows how massive the Scott Road Bridge project really is. The Scott Road Bridge replacement has been on the drawing board since 2012 and money for the project was awarded a year later. The $1.5 million project began last year with Mt. Meigs-based Dubose Construction Company winning the bid. Since that time demolition of the original bridge that dates back to 1960 has been done, site work is complete, gas and utility lines have been replaced and the the new massive culverts have been put in place. The effort of raising the road with load after load of dirt is being hauled in being packed into place. Abramson Concrete Construction of Irondale is sub-contractor handling the culvert portion of the project. The project is scheduled to be completed in late May weather permitting.

SCHOOL CALENDAR Alexander City Schools

April 29: Benjamin Russell High School chorus department Spring Concert, 2 p.m., First United Methodist Church Trinity campus May 1-3: Wildcat Showcase, Benjamin Russell High School gymnasium May 3: Benjamin Russell Freshman Information Session May 5: Radney Elementary Drama Club Yard Sale May 7: Radney Elementary Fine Arts Night, 6 p.m.

May 14: Jim Pearson Elementary Muffins with MomPre-K May 15: Jim Pearson Elementary Muffins with MomKindergarten

May 16: Jim Pearson Elementary Muffins with MomFirst Grade May 17: Jim Pearson Elementary Muffins with MomSecond Grade May 17: Alexander City Middle School Awards Day May 22: Jim Pearson Elementary May Day

Tallapoosa County Schools

May 4: Horseshoe Bend Spring Band Concert, 7 p.m.

May 10: Horseshoe Bend elementary grades Awards Day May 11: Dadeville Elementary Field Day May 14: Reeltown Elementary Awards Day May 15: Reeltown High School

YOU’RE NOT A SUBSCRIBER?

Honors Day May 17: Dadeville High School Senior Awards Night, 5:30 p.m.

May 18: Dadeville Elementary Pre-K Awards Program May 21: Horseshoe Bend DARE Graduation May 21: Dadeville Elementary Kindergarten and Sixth Grade Graduation May 22: Horseshoe Bend Senior Honors Day May 23: Reeltown Elementary Sixth Grade Graduation

High School Graduation Dates

May 23: Horseshoe Bend May 24: Dadeville May 25: Benjamin Russell, Reeltown

This drawing of a sunny day was made

by Daniel Mendoza, a fourth-grader at Stephens Elementary.

The National Weather Service forecast for today is sunny with a high of 77 degrees.

Tonight will see mostly clear skies and a low of 46. Good weather continues throughout the weekend, with sunny skies and a high of 72 during the day Sunday, remaining clear with a low of 43 Sunday night.

Call 256-234-4281 and subscribe to The Outlook www.alexcityoutlook.com

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256-329-1313 217 Madison Street, Alexander City, AL “We are a Debt Relief Agency. We help people file Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 under the Bankruptcy Code. Alabama State Bar requires the following in every attorney advertisement, “ No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

Weekend Edition, April 28-29, 2018

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Page 3

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Singers

continued from page 1

from Dadeville, but has performed at many venues including Las Vegas.

Heard partnered with Bill Medley in 2016 to revive the Righteous Brothers.

Heard is featured on a new Righteous Brothers CD and he and Medley are currently booked as artists in residence at Harrah’s in Las Vegas.

Alexander City’s Scott Blake said the show is something that the group has talked about for a long time and is excited to finally see come together. “We’ve been trying to get a reunion together for years and it just finally all worked out for it to happen now,�

Blake said. “We already have 25 commitments and we thing we may

end up with 30 before we are done. We have Bucky coming from Las Vegas and others coming from Colorado and South Florida. The core group that is expected to come are people from here in Central Alabama with a bunch from Alexander City, Sylacauga and Montgomery. “We had a group of nine or 10 of us get together last Sunday and we sounded pretty good. So, we are really excited about putting on a show for the community.�

The public is invited out for an evening of beautiful and fun vocal selections that were performed under the direction Ken Yates during his

tenure at Alex City Junior College during the 70s, 80s, and 90s. “Mr. Yates is in his 80s, and he can still really sing,� Blake said. “We are excited to have him directing us and singing with us.�

In addition to Blake, Heard and Yates, Steve Lewis, Tracy Lambert Carr, Catie Howell Simpkins, Jeffery and Shannon Etheridge, Billy Connelley, Donna Mann, Dennis Dean, Daniel Dean, Patti Schell Carter and Robin Lewis have already committed to be a part of the show.

Admission is free, but donations will be accepted to assist CACC’s Music Department.

John Ferguson speaks about donating to the Alexander City Rotary Club Foundation to support the Imagination Library at Thursday night’s fundraiser dinner.

Hospital

continued from page 1

surveyed on their performance on 15 outcome measures as well as 12 process and structural measures. Data for the survey came from CMS, the Leapfrog Hospital survey and sources like the annual survey conducted by the American Hospital Association. All the information was then compiled in order to give a hospital its final grade on the A-F scale. “This honor is a reflection of our organization’s commitment to patient safety and the reduction of avoidable harm, including hospital acquired infections, errors and accidents,� Russell Medical Director of Quality Services Brenda Duncan said. “We raise the bar for quality and patient safety to the highest level and are proud of our staff for their continued quality improvement initiatives and commitment to patient safety in every facet of patient care.� “Hospitals have been pioneers in quality measurement,� RMC Vice President of Clinical Services Sarah Beth Gettys added. “Facilities such as our have long shared safety and quality data with the public because patients and their families need clear, meaningful information to make health care decisions. We encourage patients to use all available tools at their disposal, and the latest Leapfrog rating system is just one tool among many patients can use.�

Released twice each year, the Leapfrog ratings examine acutecare hospital facilities, though it does not include critical access hospitals, specialty and federal hospitals. For a more detailed listing of the Leapfrog ratings, visit www.hospitalsafetygrade. org.

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Reading

continued from page 1

on a monthly basis to preschool children follow along the lines of an idea from local pediatrician Dr. Eric Tyler who repeated the statement at Thursday’s dinner. “If you want to change the evening news, educate your children,� Tyler said.

The books provide a way for children to learn to read and interact with parents in a meaningful way.

Currently the club helps fund the program at Harbor Learning Academy where children receive age appropriate books from birth to five-years-old monthly by mail. The academy’s Sue Smitherman spoke to the success of the program. “By these books going home, it gives parents an opportunity to interact with their children in a positive way,�

Smitherman said. “I think it is a great thing. The earlier you can get them into books, the better.�

Smitherman explained that the program has increased the number of books available in the school’s library too. “They (parents) are giving their books back to our library (when they are done),� Smitherman said. “So it is expanding even more what we can do.�

Smitherman even brought along soonto-be Jim Pearson kindergartener Skylar Smith to read to the crowd of about 40 gathered for the fundraising dinner at the Russell Hangar. Smith read “The Three Little Pigs� from the library collection.

Smith’s ability surprised some at the dinner but proved a point about what the Imagination Library can do. “It is hard to follow up a reader,� said Dana Rickman, who is the Alexander City Rotary Club’s immediate past president. “To see someone who is not yet a kindergartener read like that is not the norm.�

Rickman said her own children could read some at that age but not like Smith.

She wants to see more children reading in the community, especially children in underserved areas. “We are trying to change that,�

Rickman said. “ We have a great disparity in our community. This program will help change that.�

The Imagination Library was started in 1995 by Dolly Parton to benefit the children in east Tennessee. In 2000 it was expanded to be available to any community that was willing to partner to support it locally. Currently more than 1,600 local communities take part with more than 1 million children receiving books each month.

Those interested in helping the Alexander City Rotary Club’s efforts in supporting the Imagination Library can contact any member for more information on how to donate to the cause.

Langston Experience, was found guilty on two counts which included failing to “properly account for or remit money coming into possession which belonged to others� and “co-mingling funds coming into possession which belonged to others with the company operating account and with the personal account of Mr. Langston.�

A total of four licenses that Langston had held, which included broker qualification, were revoked by unanimous votes of the commission.

In addition, he was fine $2,500 for each license for a total of $10,000.

According to K.C. Baldwin, an investigator with the commission, the term of a revocation is two years and prevents the “person from participating in any licensed real estate activity.� “After two years, a person who has been revoked can reapply for licensing through the board.� Baldwin said.

The meeting was held in Cullman and present were Vice Chairman Bill Watts; Commissioners Reid Cummings, Cindy Denney, Carole Harrison, Clif Miller, Vaughn Poe and Danny Sharp; Executive Director Patricia Anderson; Assistant Executive Director Teresa Hoffman; General Counsel Mandy Lynn; Investigators David Erfman and

continued from page 1

K.C. Baldwin; Auditors Anthony Brown and Vickie Shackleford and Executive Assistant Barbi Lee. The hearing officer was Jim Hampton.

Langston acknowledged the action taken by the commission, but said the mistakes made at his company were not as some have painted them. “We made some mistakes, but I didn’t shoot John Kennedy, I can tell you that,�

Langston said. “Last year when I had five people leave me by sending an email in the middle of the night, I had to change my controller as well. “Because of that, I wanted to make sure everything was OK, so I asked the Real Estate Commission to audit the company. In that process, they found some instances where some mistakes were made. In one we paid payroll out of the wrong account, realized it and put it right back. Another time, Harland, the check company, was paid from the wrong account.

That time, same thing, we paid it right back. It was instances like that, not where I was paying my rent or bills out of escrow or something.�

He said he expected the fine, and acknowledged the mistakes. Langston believes a legal dispute between he and another entity apparently swayed

the commission to take the more severe action.

In March, Eric McKinley asked the court for a restraining order and declaratory judgment against Langston.

The complaint asks the court to limit Langston’s ability to do business as The Lake Martin Experience after McKinley entered into the business as a partner and Langston had been cited by the State of Alabama Real Estate Commission for ethical violations and is facing suspension or revocation of his real estate license.

McKinley, according to his legal filing, had joined the partnership in Dec. 2017 with 50 percent ownership with an agreement that if ethical violations, loss of real estate license or other legal proceedings arose, the party would be removed from ownership of the business.

McKinley asked the court to remove Langston from ownership in The Lake Martin Experience as deemed in the partnership agreement.

Langston said he would have never agreed to sell half of his company for $50,000, especially when he knew he would be going before the commission. “That temporary restraining order, which I am still fighting and disputing, is what escalated the decision they made,� Langston

said. “I don’t mind explaining it at all. I do that every day. You look at the ruling or hear what some people are telling you and you think the worst. It’s not at all what it is being painted as.�

Langston also has court cases pending involving former clients and employees, according to court records.

In November 2017, Gary Thomas Widmer of Michigan filed suit against Langston who served as Widmer’s real estate agent to purchase a Sunset Point Condo with a boat slip and personal watercraft lift.

After closing Widmer went inspect the property to find out the boat slip and lift had been left out of the real estate deal.

Widmer alleges Langston negotiated on his behalf with power of attorney and did not disclose the change in the contract to him. Widmer is asking for $10,000 plus interest, costs and attorney fees for “willfully with intent to deceive, recklessly or innocently by mistake, concealed and misrepresented material facts about the PWC Slips in the purchase‌â€?

In January, Windy Carter filed suit against Langston seeking $30,000 in commissions owed to her after she left Langston’s business after she discovered Langston was “co-mingling funds� in violation of the laws of

the State of Alabama and the Ethics of Alabama Real Estate Commission.

Langston said she is one of the employees who left the company last year and he has filed a countersuit in that case.

Langston said he is trying to move forward and do what he does best.

He has opened Michael Langston LLC, a firm dedicated to marketing real estate for companies and helping with training. “I’m not doing any transactions or any licenses activity,�

Langston said. “I’m working with a new broker and sales staff assisting the newest real estate company on Lake Martin, We Are Lake Martin. That’s what real estate is all about – marketing. I enjoy doing that and hopefully I can make a difference in that role until all the rest of this gets cleared up.�

Langston said he has 30 days to appeal, but said he hasn’t even gotten official notification of the revocation at this point.

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MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213 editor@alexcityoutlook.com

EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed

Page 4

Opinion

www.alexcityoutlook.com

The

Weekend Edition, April 28-29, 2018

Jones proving to be his own man

Our

View

Hats off to BRHS for emphasizing FAFSA

T

wice this year, Benjamin Russell High School has been recognized by the organization Alabama Possible and its Cash for College Alabama campaign for showing growth in the number of senior students completing the FAFSA application for college financial aid.

Alabama Possible recognized BRHS in January with its “Best Hustle” award for showing significant growth among seniors completing the FAFSA during an early window. Earlier this month, the group again honored Benjamin Russell for having one of the highest FAFSA completion rates in the state, with 71 percent of the BRHS Class of 2018 having finished the application.

At the high school, counselor Richard Burton sits down with the senior class about the FAFSA and how beneficial financial aid can be in order to make college more affordable. He and financial aid representatives from Central Alabama Community College also speak to students and their parents during Financial Aid Night in October.

“Completing the FAFSA opens more doors to be able to pay for college,” Burton said. “It shows when the students are making an investment in their future, they are more able to reap the benefits.”

Thanks to the emphasis placed on this, the students at Benjamin Russell have been paying attention and working to reach those avenues of college funding. This year’s total of 71 percent completion is a jump from last year’s 56 percent, suggesting the Class of 2018 may be in line to set another financial aid record at the high school, breaking last year’s record of more than $5 million in scholarships given to the Class of 2017.

As with many other things we’ve talked about in the recent past, this achievement may not be measured on any standardized test, but still shows the staff at Benjamin Russell cares about their students’ futures, wanting them to succeed at whatever they choose to do. Whether these students go on to earn a degree from a prestigious four-year institution or a technical certification from CACC or Southern Union, having a completed FAFSA application gives them one more opportunity to have the financial aid necessary to complete this endeavor.

Our hats are off to the staff at Benjamin Russell for encouraging the seniors in this way, helping them be much more prepared to take that next step after graduation.

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 of Spring Hill community. His phone T.C. Coley number is 256-212-9316.

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 address is 300 Heritage Drive Alexander City.

Outlook

Steve Robinson

John McKelvey represents District 3, which includes Jackson’s Gap, Hackneyville, New Site and Daviston. McKelvey currently serves as chairman. His phone number is 256-7944405. 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.

She can be reached at 825-4207. Her address is 585 Brookwood Circle, Dadeville.

Emma Jean Thweatt

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, Dadeville.

George Carleton Jr.

I

enjoy politics almost as much as I do walking barefooted over broken glass strewn on hot Alabama asphalt.

I don’t have any party preference and look at every race on an individual basis and vote for the person I think will be the best for my community, my state and the country. I don’t publically support any candidate and beating me with a rubber hose won’t get an answer out of me about I who I cast my ballot for.

With that said, I will admit the way Doug Jones has started his run in the Senate has impressed me. There are some things he has supported I don’t agree with and there are some things where his vote shows me that we have elected a man who will vote with his mind, not the way party robots want.

Jones started a series of weekly calls with small-town newspapers across Alabama to not only tell us what he is doing, but to listen to us on important issues and educate himself on issues newspapers and our readers are seeing.

This week Jones talked about his fight to get tariffs that have been levied on Canadian newsprint rolled back to make sure there is ample supply and to quell prices that are rising as fast as Earnhardt driving towards a checkered flag at Talladega.

Jones talked about a letter he wrote to U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross urging him to review recently imposed newsprint tariffs, and consider how they will hurt local and community newspapers in the United States.

“Local newspapers are an essential component of the communities they serve, both as the primary distributor of regional news and advertisements for small

MITCH SNEED Editor business,” Jones said. “For an industry that is already struggling, a 22-percent import increase groundwood paper from Canada has the potential to close down small-town papers across the country. I urge Secretary Ross to evaluate these tariffs soon before they force our small-town Alabama media outlets to cut jobs, local media coverage, or both.”

The sad part is the tariffs are a response to a single complaint made by a hedge fund-owned paper manufacturer, North Pacific Paper Company (NORPAC), in Washington State, that claimed that Canadian government subsidies allowed their producers to sell newsprint at unfairly low prices.

Heck, the low prices were the only way some newspapers were making a profit.

Jones said you want to look out for American industries, but sometimes the consequences need to be considered as well.

“Combatting unfair trade practices and ensuring a level playing field for American businesses are goals that I share with President Trump and the Administration,” Jones said. “I am concerned though in the case of tariffs on uncoated groundwood paper that the harm for American consumers will far outweigh the good. At a time when local newspapers are already taking a serious hit from electronic media, these price increases could mean that some are forced to shut down, jobs will be lost and the only source some of our smaller

Alabama communities have for news will be gone.”

So, I know what you are thinking. I like Jones because he is taking up for an industry that I have loved since I was a kid and one that has put food on my table for more than 35 years.

Sure, that is good news. But really, it’s because he seems to be his own man.

I asked him about his vote to support conformation of Mike Pompeo as Secretary of State and if that showed that he is dedicated to his promise to not be a rubber stamp for one side or the other.

He explained it like this.

“After meeting with Director Pompeo, reviewing the record of his confirmation hearings, and speaking with others with expertise in national security and diplomacy, I believe he has the skills required to meet the weighty and urgent demands facing our State Department today. I have therefore decided to support his confirmation as Secretary of State. …In our conversations, I did share my concerns about certain troubling statements he made as a member of Congress. He gave me his word that, as Secretary of State, diplomacy would always be his first priority and he would ensure that our nation continues to be a leader in protecting human rights and the dignity of all people.

“Look, this isn’t about being bi-partisan or being a rubber stamp for this administration or any party initiative. This is about me being an independent thinking senator who acts on data and facts to do what’s best for Alabama and this country.”

It’s hard to argue with that kind of stance.

Mitch Sneed is the editor of The Outlook.

Today’s

Quote

“As knowledge increases, wonder deepens.”

—Charles Morgan

Today’s

Scripture

“The Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.”

—Luke 19:10

alexcityoutlook.com

Daily Poll Friday’s question: Do you go to the fair for the food, the rides and games, or for both?

Both — 61%, 19 votes Food — 23%, 7 votes Rides — 16%, 5 votes

Weekend question: Do you plan to attend a showing of ACT II’s murder mystery comedy productions this weekend?

To participate in this daily poll, log on each day to www.alexcityoutlook.com and vote. Find out the vote totals in the next edition of The Outlook and see if your vote swayed the results.

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A week of pomp and circumstance

T

hree disparate events within a week’s time captured the world’s attention and provided a fresh take on how we regard pomp and circumstance.

The funeral of Barbara Bush was a celebration in the grandest sense of a beloved first lady, honored on April 21 after 92 robust years of life. In her final days, Mrs. Bush planned every detail of her funeral, set in Houston’s St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, where she and President George H. W. Bush attended services for half a century.

Her wishes were summarized in son Jeb’s eulogy as he spoke of her “looming presence” and imagined her cautioning, “Jeb, keep it short. Don’t drag this out.”

If only there had been a television camera behind the pulpit to scan the faces of those in the front row. On one side were former presidents Bush 41 and Bush 43, along with members of the Bush family.

On the other side, Melania Trump sat next to Barack Obama; then came Michelle Obama and, to her left, Bill and Hillary Clinton.

It would be a mistake to attach too much political significance to a funeral, but the vibe that day was a reminder of the civility that frequently marked our political world in Pre-Trump days. We don’t have royalty in our country — but if we did, the roster would include

PETER FUNT Columnist several of those in the front row.

In her final gesture, Barbara Bush created a tranquil moment that brought people together.

The British do have royalty, of course, and its brightest stars took to the world stage April 23 with the birth of the third child for Prince William and Kate Middleton. Emerging from the hospital just seven hours after delivering her son, Kate looked every bit as glamorous, yet refined, as her millions of admirers wish her to be. For the media throng across the street no detail was too small — from Kate’s red Jenny Packham dress, to the latest odds set by London bookmakers on what the couple would name their child.

The New York Times playfully asked in an editorial about the royal fuss, “Was it too much?

Of course, but when offered alongside all the other ‘evil news’ of White House iniquities, shooting rampages and other horrors, it’s barely enough, as Mark Twain might have put it.”

Scoff as we might from time to time about British traditions, the fact that they manage to keep royalty and governance separate is a virtue — especially considering the state of things in

Washington.

And so the world turned its attention, briefly, from Kate’s baby to the state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron and wife Brigitte to the White House.

Politics aside, President Trump is socially awkward, smiling at the wrong time, shaking hands for too long and, the other day, brushing what Trump called “a little piece of dandruff” from Macron’s shoulder.

For the state dinner April 24, Mrs. Trump donned a black Chantilly lace Chanel Haute Couture gown, hand painted with silver and embroidered with crystal and sequins.

There were 1,200 branches of cherry blossom, 2,500 stems of white sweet peas and 1,000 stems of white lilac. The guest list, as distributed by Mrs. Trump’s office, included “The Honorable Jared Kushner and The Honorable Ivanka Trump,” along with at least 10 billionaires from private business.

The world saw an administration that has neither the charm of British royalty nor the dignity of the Bush family.

It wasn’t so much pomp as it was pompous.

Peter Funt is a writer, speaker and syndicated columnist. His book, “Cautiously Optimistic,” is available at Amazon.com and CandidCamera.com. His column is distributed exclusively by newspaper syndicate Cagle Cartoons, Inc.

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 email david.kendrick@ alexcityoutlook.com.

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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 emailed to editor@alexcityoutlook.com. Please include your name, address and phone number.

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Weekend Edition, April 28-29, 2018

The Outlook

CommunityCalendar Need Insurance?

Call me.

256.234.3481 KarenChannell.com

This weekend is April 28-29, 2018 Today’s Events

FAIR: The Alexander City Kiwanis Fair will be in the main football parking lot of the Sportplex and will open at 1 p.m.

REUNION: The annual New Site High School reunion will be Saturday, April 28 at 10 a.m. in the Horseshoe Bend High School Commons area.

Please bring a covered dish.

MULE DAY: The Weogufka Center is hosting its annual Mule Day Saturday, April 28. There will be buggy rides and trail rides. A sausage biscuit breakfast is from 6:30 to 10 a.m. The Train Man will be there as will an antique car and truck show. For more information visit the weogufkacenter.org or the Weogufka Center Facebook page.

GAME NIGHT: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have Family Game Night Bingo from 5 until 8 p.m.

Saturday, April 28. Begin with hot dogs, pizza, chips and soft drinks.

DRUG TAKE BACK: Local law

enforcement will be at Walgreens in Alexander City Saturday, April 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to collect old and unwanted prescription and over the counter medications. The service is free and without questions.

BOOK SALE: The Friends of the Dadeville Library are hosting a book sale Saturday, April 28 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the lower level of the Dadeville Public Library. One bag of books is $5 or three bags for $10.

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/.

City First United Methodist Church on Highway 280 next to Russell Medical.

Everyone is welcome to attend and admission is free.

FIFTH SUNDAY FELLOWSHIP: Bay Pine Baptist Church is hosting Fifth Sunday Fellowship with the Smith Family Sunday, April 29.

Singing starts at 10:30 a.m. and a fellowship dinner afterwards. There will be a love offering taken for the Smith Family.

Today’s Birthdays

Brian Peppers, Christopher Kelly, Paralee Walker, Cathy Whatley, Mary Jean Sherrer, Jonathon Durden, Dawn Culberson Durden and Madison Foster are celebrating birthdays today.

Sunday’s Birthdays

Brian Peppers, Christopher Kelly, Paralee Walker, Cathy Whatley, Mary Jean Sherrer, Jonathon Durden, Dawn Culberson Durden and Madison Foster celebrate their birthdays Sunday.

Today’s Anniversaries

Bobby and Dot Vickers and Gary and Brenda Claybrook celebrate their anniversaries today.

THE MEADOWS ASSISTED LIVING

2712 Washington Street Alexander City

256-234-0800

Sunday’s Anniversaries

Bobby and Dot Vickers Gary and Brenda Claybrook celebrate their anniversaries Sunday.

Sunday’s Events

BRHS SPRING CHORAL CONCERT: The Benjamin Russell High School Choral Department will present its Annual Spring Choral Concert Sunday, April 29 at 2 p.m. at the Trinity Campus of Alexander

Page 5

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Monday’s Birthdays

SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

Karen Worthy Russell, Rev. Steve Dyess, Brandon Vernon, Sara Hunnicutt, Larry Hunt, Alice Hall and Willie Mae Smith celebrate their birthdays Monday.

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

In addition to picking up and delivering the mail, the 18 carriers out of the Alexander City Post Office will also be collecting food for the needy as part of the National Association of Letter Carriers’ 26th annual “Stamp Out Hunger” food drive. On May 12 area residents can use any type of bag to place food in and leave by their mailbox to be picked up by postal carriers.

Non-perishable food items including cereal, pasta, pasta sauce or spaghetti sauce, rice, canned fruits and vegetables, canned meals (such as soups, chili and pasta), 100 percent juice, peanut butter, macaroni and cheese, canned protein (tuna, chicken and turkey) and beans (canned or dry) will be collected.

Monday, April 30

DEADLINE FOR VENDORS: MainStreet Alexander City is hosting Junque Jubilee in downtown Alexander City Saturday, May 12 starting at 8 a.m. with shops opening at 10 a.m. April 30 is the last day for vendors to register. There is a $20 application fee. Event organizers ask none of the vendors bring clothing or shoes to sell.

For more information on the event or registration, contact MainStreet Alexander City at 256-329-9227.

Tuesday, May 1

USHER MEETING: The Early Rose District Usher’s meeting will be Tuesday, May 1 at 5 p.m. at the Early Rose District Center.

Thursday, May 3

The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow

The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for 2nd, 3rd, and Weekend Shifts for Direct Care.

Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Shatia Carr (334) 252-0025, Ext. 101 Email: Scarr@learning-tree.org

DAY OF PRAYER: The Alex City Ministerial Association is hosting the National Day of Prayer at the First Baptist Church sanctuary Thursday, May 3 at noon.

DAY OF PRAYER: Hackneyville will be hosting its third annual National Day Prayer from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Hackneyville Community Center. Everyone is invited to attend.

SPRING PROGRAM: Faith Christian Academy will present its annual spring program Thursday, May 3, at 6 p.m. in the Faith Temple sanctuary. The theme is “David and the Psalms.” The classes will present several of the more familiar Psalms including the 23rd Psalm, Psalm 119 which is the longest Psalm, Psalm 91 which is the Soldier’s Psalm and the messianic Psalms. The 80-voice choir will sing scripture songs taken from the Psalms. They will feature the FCA Dance Troupe dancing to “Your Heart (David)” and the sixth through 12th grades will present “The Champion.”

The public is cordially invited.

STAND OUT from the crowd?

Call us, we can help!

256.234.4281

• • • • •

Alexander City Outlook Dadeville Record Wetumpka Herald Eclectic Observer Tallassee Tribune

Sunday, May 6

CHURCH ANNIVERSARY: County Line Baptist Church in the Dudleyville community is celebrating its 183rd anniversary Sunday, May 6 at 10:45 a.m. The speaker will be Brother Jimmy Allen.

There will be dinner on the grounds following the service.

MEN AND WOMEN DAY: New Harmony Missionary Baptist Church in Camp Hill is celebrating Men and Women Day Sunday, May 6 at 2 p.m.

Guest minister is Rev. Otis James Tyner Jr. Pastor of New Harmony is Rev. Melvin Kelley Jr. MINI-CONCERT: Bucky Heard will be giving a mini-concert Sunday, May 6 at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church Dadeville.

CHURCH SINGING: Catching Foxes from the University of Mobile will be singing at 5:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church Dadeville.

May 9-11

CHURCH REVIVAL: Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church is hosting spring revival services May 9 to May 11 at 7 p.m. nightly. The evangelist for the week is Rev. Anthony Shealey of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Loachapoka. Rev. G.H. Pulliam is pastor of Pine Grove.

Friday, May 4

PRODUCTION: The Mt. Vernon Theatre In Tallassee is hosting “The Firemen’s Training” Friday, May 4.

Saturday, May 5

Need your business to

Technology Center. Admission is free but donations to the Central Alabama Community College are appreciated.

CLAY SHOOT: The Annual Alexander City Kiwanis Club Sporting Clays Competition will be Saturday, May 5 at the Five Star Plantation.

Registration deadline is Friday, April 27. For more information contact Phil Blasingame at 256-307-4004.

CHURCH YARD SALE: GAP Fellowship Church on Robinson Court is hosting a yard sale, fish fry and BBQ Saturday, May 5 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

FACEBOOK SOCIAL: Do you have friends on Facebook that you’ve never met? Here is your chance to spend some time with them face to face. The first Alexander City Facebook Social Mixer will be held at Strand Park from noon until 5 p.m.

Hot dogs will be for sale and you can bring your own refreshments. Come out and invite your Facebook friends.

BAKE SALE: The First United Methodist Church UMW is hosting a baked and frozen foods sale Saturday, May 5 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Trinity Campus on Highway 280. Proceeds will benefit local and global mission projects.

CHORAL REUNION: The Alexander City State Junior College Reunion Singers present “Songs from Our Past” Saturday, May 5 at 6 p.m. at the Betty Carol Graham

Saturday, May 12

JUNQUE JUBILEE: MainStreet Alexander City is hosting Junque Jubilee in downtown Alexander City Saturday, May 12 starting at 8 a.m. with shops opening at 10 a.m.

FISH FRY: The Hackneyville Fire Department will be hosting its annual fish fry Saturday, May 12 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the HVFD in Hackneyville.

Bring your family and friends to enjoy some fresh, fried catfish. Fish plates will be available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for $10 per plate.

This is the HVFD annual fundraising drive to help keep the department active and to help pay for a new fire department.

MOTHERS PRAYER BREAKFAST: Centerview Missionary Baptist Church is hosting a Mothers Prayer Breakfast Saturday, May 12 at 9 a.m. The speaker is Debra Harris, 1st Lady of Mt. Lovely Baptist Church.

Rev. Jimmial Harrison Sr. is pastor of Centerview Missionary Baptist.

Wednesday, May 16

LAW ENFORCEMENT MEMORIAL: The Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department and the Alexander City Police Department is hosting the 22nd Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Wednesday, May 16 at 11 a.m. at the department. The key note speaker will be Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall.

Lunch will be served afterwards in the Alexander City Police Department.

Thursday, May 17

WINE AND WORDS: Chuck’s Marina is hosting a “Crawfish Boil, Wine and Words” fundraiser for the Friends of the Dadeville Public Library. Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 at the door if available.

It includes all-you-can-eat crawfish boil dinner prepared by Chef Raymond LeBlanc, music by the Murray Brown Band, a wine tasting and used book sale.

Advance tickets are available at Chuck’s and the Dadeville Public Library.

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

–Since 1978–

BIG “B” BAR-B-QUE “We Cook The Best BETTER!”

Hickory Grilled Meat BBQ • STEAK CHICKEN • CATFISH

256.329.9996 Hwy. 22 West, Alexander City, AL

Friday, May 18

PRODUCTION: The Mt. Vernon Theatre in Tallassee is hosting “The Hoppers,” Friday, May 18.

Saturday, May 19

CONCERT: The Mt. Vernon Theatre in Tallassee is hosting the Central Alabama Wind Symphony Saturday, May 19.

ARMED FORCES DAY PICNIC: The Bill Nichols Chapter of the Disabled American Veterans will be holding a Picnic in the Park Saturday, May 19 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in Strand Park to celebrate Armed Forces Day. Veteran service organizations like the DAV and American Legion will be on hand to pass out information, and the Alabama National Guard will also have a display set up.

There will be a military vehicle show, kids activities and food vendors set up in the park as well. The event is open to the public and there is no cost to attend.

Sunday, May 20

BACCALAUREATE SERVICE: The Benjamin Russell Baccalaureate Service is May 20 at 7 p.m. at the BRHS auditorium.

How to add a calendar item: Participate in your

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

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

Small Space Advertising Works.

Saturday, May 26

CONCERT: The Mt. Vernon Theatre in Tallassee is hosting Bama Breeze in concert Saturday, May 26.

Friday, June 8

MOVIE: The Mt. Vernon Theatre in Tallassee is showing “The Sandlot” Friday, June 8.

For Consistent Advertising

Saturday, June 9

call the Advertising Department

PRODUCTION: The Mt. Vernon Theatre in Tallassee is hosting Andy Griggs Saturday, June 9.

at Low Rates ...

256.234.4281

Page 6

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Weekend Edition, April 28-29, 2018

The Outlook

In Community, We Share Tallapoosa County Devotional Page

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“Since 1962”

652 Cherokee Road • Alexander City

Flowers with the Extra Touch!

256-329-1018 THOMAS AUTO PARTS

951 Hillabee • Alexander City • 256-234-4238

• Automotive Parts • Machine Shop Services • Paint & Body Supplies • Hydraulic Hose Assemblies

AUTO PARTS

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Since 1976

256-357-9233 www.Àooringwholesale.com

Open 7 Days A Week 1 1 AM - 10 PM

61 Jefferson Street • Alexander City Phone: 256-234-3454

Make sure you’re reading the signs T

2) The signs that He is he other day I was coming back. driving through the old “As it was in the days of Russell complex that Noah, so it will be at the coming runs by the post office. I was of the Son of Man. Just as in in front of the post office going Noah’s day the whole moral fabtoward the fire department ric of our world is broken down. when the driver of the car in Things that used to be sacred front of me turned on their sacred any more. For those blinker to turn left. The problem BRO. WAYNE aren’t that read the Bible and have with that is there is supposed to COWHICK confessed Jesus Christ as Lord be no left turn at that intersecAlexander City and Savior, the second coming tion. It is clearly marked. There Methodist Church Of Jesus Christ will not be a surare signs everywhere, but the prise.” — Matthew 24:37 (NIV) driver was not paying attention “Now, brothers, about times and dates and turned left crossed over the railroad we do not need to write to you, for you tracks and, by the Grace of God, avoided know very well that the day of the Lord will a head on collision. I thought to myself, come like a thief in the night. While people “How could anyone have missed all those are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction signs?” will come on them suddenly, as labor pains As I thought about that incident, I was on a pregnant woman, and they will not reminded of how many signs the Lord has escape. But you, brothers, are not in darkshown us and how many people do not ness so that this day should surprise you listen. like a thief. You are all sons of the light and 1) The signs that He exists. sons of the day. We do not belong to the “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be wickedness of men who suppress the truth alert and self-controlled.” by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because — Thessalonians 5:1–6 (NIV) The questions then become: 1) Do you God has made it plain to them. For since see the signs? 2) Are you reading them corthe creation of the world God’s invisible rectly? 3) Are you ready? qualities — his eternal power and divine nature — have been clearly seen, being Bro. Wayne Cowhick is pastor at understood from what has been made, so Alexander City Methodist Church and a that men are without excuse.” — Romans faith columnist for The Outlook.

1:18–20 (NIV)

This devotional and directory made possible by these businesses who encourage all of us to attend worship services!

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TEMPLE MEDICAL CLINIC, P.C. YOUR FAMILY CARE CENTER Medicine, Office Surgery, Pediatric and Industrial JAMES P. TEMPLE, M.D. 859 Airport Drive TIMOTHY J. CORBIN, M.D. Alexander City, AL VINCENT LAW, M.D.

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ALEXANDER CITY HOME OF LAKE MARTIN

R & R Refrigeration HEATING & AIR AL HVAC #92120

Rehab • Long-Term Care • Assisted Living 3701 Dadeville Road Alexander City

256-234-6366

Truck Accessories Sales & Installation

St. John A.M.E. Off Hwy. 280 on Hwy. 9 Socopatoy, (256) 215-3532 ASSEMBLIES OF GOD Cedar Street Church of God 703 E. Boulevard, Alex City Faith Assembly of God 590 Horseshoe Bend Rd., Dadeville 256-825-7741 River of Life Worship Center 407 Hillabee St., Alex City, 256-329-9593

Trailer Sales Trailer Parts Trailer Repairs 1201 U.S. Hwy. 280 • Kellyton, AL (256) 392-5353

1326 Dadeville Road Alexander City, AL

INDEPENDENT BAPTIST Liberty Baptist 1365 Hillabee St., Alex City 256-329-8830 New Life Baptist County Road 14, Alex City, 256-329-2635 Victory Baptist 280 By-Pass, Alex City West End Baptist Off 280 West, 256-234-2130

256-234-2511 1-800-285-3881

Member by Invitation Selected Independent Funeral Homes www.radneyfuneralhome.com

Paradise Bed & Breakfast on Lake Martin

• Updated Pro Shop • Junior Golf Program • Annual Tournaments • Weekly Matches 18 Holes of Golf - 7 Days a Week

256-825-9860 95 County Rd. 40 (Off Hwy. 280)

Our Business Is God’s Business

Whirlpool • Kitchen Aid Maytag • Amana Holland Grills Full Service Department

Tapley Appliance Center 574 S. Central Avenue Alexander City, AL 256.329.9762

SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law

135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL

256-825-9559 No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

Season

Johnson

Mountain Springs Baptist Off Hwy. 22, Daviston

Pleasant Grove Church of Christ 1819 Bay Pine Rd, Jackson’s Gap

Pleasant Valley Missionary Baptist 835 Valley Rd., Camp Hill 334-257-4442

Mt. Carmel Baptist 3610 Dudleyville Rd., Dadeville

Southview Church of Christ 2325 Dadeville Rd., Alex City 256-329-0212

Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Alexander City, 256-234-6972

Mt. Zion Baptist Hwy. 63 South, Alex City 256-234-7748

Rocky Mt. Baptist New Site community

New Beginning Baptist 1076 Coley Creek Rd.

Seleeta Baptist Booker St., Alex City 256-329-2685

New Concord Baptist Off hwy. 49, Dadeville, 256-825-5390

CHURCH OF GOD Alex City No. 2 A.C.O.P. Church of God Local Street, Alex City Bread of Life A.C.O.P. Church of God Hwy. 280, Kellyton Cedar Street Church of God 711 Martin Luther King Blvd.

Alex City

Shady Grove Baptist Jackson’s Gap Community

New Elkahatchee Baptist Elkahatchee Rd., Alex City 256-329-9942

The Great Bethel Missionary 520 Christian St., Alex City 256-234-5513

New Hope Baptist 1133 New Hope Church Rd. 256-329-5218

Dadeville Church of God 425 Horseshoe Bend Rd. (Hwy. 49 N.) Dadeville 256-825-8820

Unity Baptist Robinson Rd., Alex City

New Life Baptist Jackson’s Gap, 256-825-6190 / 256-329-2635

Marshall Street Church of God 428 Marshall Street, Alex City 256-234-3180

New Pine Grove Baptist Off Hwy. 22, Perryville

New Faith Tabernacle A.C.O.P. Church of God “J” Street

Zion Hill Missionary Baptist 583 S. Broadnax St., Dadeville BAPTIST – SOUTHERN Bay Pine Baptist 1480 Bay Pine Rd. Jackson’s Gap, 256-825-4433

New Providence Baptist Pearson Chapel Rd., Alex City

New Harvest Ministries Church of God Hwy 280 & Coosa 28 256-329-2331

BAPTIST – MISSIONARY Bethlehem Baptist New Site

Bethany Baptist Church Bethany Road

New Rocky Mount Baptist 670 Peckerwood Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-794-3846

Cross Key Baptist Hackneyville, 256-329-9716

Bethel Baptist Smith Mt. Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-825-5070

New Salem Road New Site Rd., New Site, 256-234-2932

Beulah Baptist Smith Mt. Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-825-9882

Old Providence Baptist Off Hwy. 63 N., near Hackneyville

The Church of God 13th Ave. N., Alex City 256-329-1696

Old Union Baptist 1106 Davis Circle 256-596-1873

Washington Street A.C.O.P. Church of God Washington Street

Orr Street Baptist 1000 “O” Street (Hwy. 63N) Alex City, 256-234-3171

CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY Church of God of Prophecy 303 Poplar Rd., Alex City, 256-234-6941

Darian Missionary Baptist Church Pearson Chapel Rd., Alex City 256-329-3865 Elam Baptist Robertson Rd. Alex City Early Rose Baptist 201 E Street, Alexander City

256.770.7777 256.770.7777

Pleasant Home Baptist Clay County

Decks • Handicap Ramps All Types of Flooring • Painting Windows • Back Splashes • Tree Service • All Types of Woodwork Customized Walk-In Showers

Free Estimates

334-657-6949

G. Daniel Brown ATTORNEY AT LAW 926 Cherokee Road Alexander City, AL

256.329.1552 2533 Hwy. 280 Alexander City, AL 256.234.0988 ––––––––

Calvary Baptist 819 Main St., Dadeville, 256-825-5989

Flint Hill Baptist Hwy. 280, Dadeville

Calvary Heights Baptist Elkahatchee, Rd., Alex City 256-234-7224

Friendship Baptist Our Town Community, 256-329-5243

Camp Hill Baptist Downtown Camp Hill, 256-896-2811

Hollins Springs Baptist Hwy. 280, Goodwater

Comer Memorial 941 E. Church St., Alex City 256-234-2236

Jackson’s Gap Baptist Church 21 East Church St. 256-825-6814

Daviston Baptist Daviston, 395-4327

Liberty Church 1034 Liberty Church Rd. Willow Point Alex City Macedonia Baptist Macedonia Circle, Goodwater 256-839-5793 Marietta Baptist Goodwater Miracle Missionary Baptist 1687 “I” Street 256-215-9788, 256-215-9787 Mt. Calvary Baptist 329 King St., Alex City, 256-234-5631 Mt. Olive Baptist Hwy. 280 & Jct. 49, Goodwater Mt. Sinai Baptist Fish Pond Rd., Coosa County 256-329-2337 Mt. Zion Baptist Hwy. 22, New Site Mt. Zion East StillWaters Dr., 256-825-4991 Mt. Zion West Our Town Community, 256-234-7748 New Elam Baptist Hwy. 9, Burtonville, 256-234-2037 New Bethel Baptist Rock St., Dadeville, 256-825-7726 Peace & Goodwill Baptist Cottage Grove Community Alexander City, 256-377-4634 Pine Grove Baptist Eagle Creek Rd., Dadeville

Eagle Creek Baptist Hwy. 49, Dadeville, 256-825-6048 Fellowship Baptist Buttston Community Fellowship Primitive Baptist Church on Claybrook Drive, Alex City 256-839-5339 First Baptist Court Square, Alex City 256-234-6351 First Baptist Tallassee St., Dadeville, 256-825-6232 Good News Baptist Church 10493 Hwy. 280, Jackson’s Gap 256-825-2555 Hackneyville Baptist Hwy. 63 N., Hackneyville Hillabee Baptist Hillabee Rd., Alex City 256-234-6798 Horseshoe Bend Baptist Hwy. 280, Dadeville Jackson’s Gap Baptist Jackson’s Gap, 256-825-4951 Kellyton Baptist Kellyton, 256-329-1512 Kendrick Baptist Church Nixburg Lake Martin Baptist Hwy 34, Dadeville 256-825-7434 Lake Pointe Baptist 8352 Hwy. 50W, Dadeville Lebanon Baptist Mt. Carmel Rd., Dadeville, 256-234-7541

“We offer a 5-year labor warranty for free!”

Perryville Baptist Perryville, 256-234-3588 Pine Grove Baptist Camp Hill Ray Baptist Rockford Hwy., Alex City, 256-234-7609 River Road Baptist 148 Dean Rd., Alex City, 256-234-6971 Rocky Creek Baptist Samford Rd., Cowpens Community Rocky Mount Baptist Hwy. 22 E., Alex City, 256-329-2327 Rock Springs Baptist Jackson’s Gap, 256-839-6263 Russell Farm Baptist Hwy. 63 beyond Our Town

Pentecostal Church of God 163 Franklin Street, Alex City 256-215-4055

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 1515 Worthy Road, Alex City (Corner of Worthy Place and Dadeville Road)

Haven United Methodist 354 Christian St., Alex City 256-329-8394 Hillabee Campground UMC 120 CC Road, Alex City Sunday School 10am Sunday Service 11am

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Lake & River Phone (256) 277-4219 Fax (205) 669-4217 The Alexander City Outlook

Reaching more than 22,000 households in Tallapoosa and Elmore counties The Dadeville Record

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The Tallassee Tribune

The Wetumpka Herald

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BRHS

continued from page 1

that Benjamin Russell has one of the highest FAFSA completion rates of any high school in the state, with 71 percent of the current senior class having completed their FAFSA forms.

With this level of involvement, BRHS seniors helped propel Alabama into one of the top four states across the country for statewide improvement on FAFSA completion, averaging a statewide growth rate of 7.5 percent.

“We are thrilled to see that Alabama is ranked at the near top of the list nationally for improvement for FAFSA completion,” Alabama Possible Executive Director Kristina Scott said. “Too often, we focus on Alabama’s low rankings, so we’re ready to celebrate this win. We’re also ready to celebrate Benjamin Russell High School and the students who are making it happen. Many people across the state realized we left $45.3

million in college aid on the table last year, so it’s exciting to see students taking steps to avoid that same issue in 2018.”

As each senior class starts their final year at Benjamin Russell, counselor Richard Burton said he sits down with each student and explains the benefits of completing the FAFSA, as this can provide more opportunities to be able to afford college. The school then hosts a Financial Aid Night in October, where Burton and financial aid representatives from Central Alabama Community College answer any questions students and their parents may have regarding financial aid.

“This is just a continuation of what we’ve been doing,” Burton said. “It’s a really great honor to be recognized like this. It just proves that when students and parents get involved, they have more chances for success.”

“This goes back to all the hard work our counselors, our senior teachers and our staff do to promote this,” BRHS Principal Dr. Anthony Wilkinson said earlier this year, when the school was recognized for winning the Best Hustle Award from Alabama Possible. “We do stress to the students to go ahead and fill out the FAFSA, whether or not they are planning on going to college, since they might change their mind and go. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

As a result of all this emphasis placed on completing the application, Benjamin Russell has seen a steady increase in the number of students submitting their FAFSA. This year’s completion rate of 71 percent was a significant increase from last year’s rate of 56 percent completion.

“This was a big increase in my opinion,” Burton said. “It really

shows how our parents and students are taking the initiative to make an investment in order to reap the benefits.”

To reward Benjamin Russell for its hard work to have students fill out and turn in a FAFSA form, Alabama Possible will be recognizing the school at a Cash for College campaign celebration scheduled for June 20 at Lawson State Community College.

At the celebration, the organization will award BRHS with a special grant, money Burton felt the school will use to continue emphasizing the importance of taking advantage of financial aid programs like the FAFSA. “This is all about accessing the money to be able to attend college,” Burton said. “We’re very happy that we are able to do what we do for our students.”

Police Reports Alexander City Police Department April 26

• Mark Houston Ballard, 56 of Alexander City, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and tampering with physical evidence.

• Christoper Dwain Weise, 53 of Phenix City, was arrested for criminal trespass.

• Dewayne Leroy Jackson, 36 of Alexander City, was arrested for disorderly conduct/disturbing the peace and resisting arrest.

• Possession of a controlled substance and tampering with physical evidence were reported on Elkahatchee Road.

• Violation of a domestic violence protection order was reported on Sturdivant Lane.

• Theft of property was reported on County Road.

• Criminal mischief was reported on Robinson Road.

• Disorderly conduct and resisting arrest were reported in Alexander City.

April 25

• Nathan Tanner Nixon, 28 of Goodwater, was arrested for three counts

of failure to appear.

• Kearre Lashea Bozeman, 28 of Alexander City, was arrested for two counts of failure to appear.

• Richardeon Felonta Davis, 25 of Alexander City, was arrested for theft of property.

• Davis Franklin Kelley, 24 of Alexander City, was arrested for public intoxication.

• Criminal trespass was reported in Kellyton.

• Leaving the scene of an accident was reported on County Road.

• Theft of property was reported in Jacksons Gap. • Burglary and theft of property were reported in Jacksons Gap. • Theft of property was reported in Alexander City.

• Criminal tampering and criminal trespass were reported in Alexander City.

• Fraudulent use of a credit/debit card was reported in Alexander City.

• Theft of property was reported in Alexander City.

• Menacing was reported on K Street.

April 24

• Nathan Christopher Colvin, 49 of Alexander City, was arrested for possession of a concealed weapon without a permit,

possession of drug paraphernalia and public intoxication.

• Dewayne Leroy Jackson, 36 of Alexander City, was arrested for bail jumping.

• Death investigation was reported in Alexander City.

• Lost property was reported on Highway 280.

• Theft of property was reported in Alexander City.

• Domestic violence was reported on South Road.

• Public intoxication was reported in Alexander City.

• Harassment was reported in Alexander City.

Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department April 26

• Daniel Bratton of Holiday Drive in Dadeville was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear public intoxication and harassment.

• Eric Purter of Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear child support.

• Tony Mancilla of Twin Street in Sylacauga was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to

appear child support.

April 25

• A resident of Flournoy Road in Dadeville filed a report for animal problem.

• Thomas Taunton of Powers Avenue in Tallassee was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear possession receiving a controlled substance.

April 24

• A resident on Denver Road filed a report in reference to criminal mischief.

• Marvin Ledbetter of Prospect Road in Dadeville was arrested on a warrant for resisting arrest and was transported to the county jail.

Dadeville Police Department April 24

• A Dadeville woman, age 42, was arrested on a warrant for failure to appear.

April 23

• A Dadeville man, age 56, was arrested on a warrant for failure to appear.

April 22

• A report was filed for domestic violence second that occurred on East South Street.

• A Dadeville man, age

58, was arrested for public intoxication on Highway 280.

• A Dadeville man, age 31, was arrested for driving under the influence, possession of marijuana second and possession of drug paraphernalia on Whatley Street.

April 21

• A Jacksons Gap woman, age 39, was arrested for driving under the influence on Highway 280.

• An Alexander City man, age 47, was arrested on two warrants for failure

to appear.

April 20

• An Alexander City man, age 28, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance on Highway 280.

April 19

• A one vehicle motor vehicle accident occurred on Highway 280 resulting in major property damage and no injuries.

• An Auburn man, age 35, was arrested for possession of marijuana second on South Tallassee Street.

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Page 10 Your community, your news ...

Local news Outlook

Weekend Edition, April 28-29, 2018 www.alexcityoutlook.com

The

BRHS chorus spring concert to be Sunday

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

MEGA HEART:

Russell Medical hosts heart education event at the Mill Two Eighty

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

Guests and area students enjoyed walking through The Mega Heart, which was display outside the Mill Two Eighty Friday morning as part of a heart education initiative lead by Russell Medical. There were also interactive exhibits inside the event center, explaining how a healthy diet and plenty of exercise can stave off cardiovascular diseases and other serious health concerns. An estimated 500 students from the area attended the event.

Wrapping up another year of competitions and performances, the chorus department at Benjamin Russell High School will be holding its annual Spring Concert Sunday, April 29 beginning at 2 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church Trinity campus.

“This is our last concert of the year,” choral director Molly Cross said. “Some of the music we’ll be performing are selections we’ve sang at other performances this year. Some of them, the students chose for themselves and some of the songs, we’re preparing to use for next year’s competitions.”

During Sunday’s concert, the BRHS Gospel, Show and Concert choirs will be performing a wide variety of music, as will the Treble Chorus, joined during part of their section of the performance by the Select Ladies Chorus from Alexander City Middle School.

“The Select Ladies Chorus is made up of young women from the middle school, those who have put in a little more effort into their rehearsal,” Cross said. “There will be 14 members of the Select Ladies Chorus joining us in the concert Sunday.”

Lasting around an hour, the music to be performed includes traditional choral music, traditional gospel, pop music, hits from Motown and the Zulu song “Singabahambayo,” a song about freedom from South Africa. As the concert approaches, Cross admitted she was feeling several different emotions.

“It’s a bit of a bittersweet feeling,” Cross said.

“I’ve been here three years, and some of these students I’ve had for all three years. We’re graduating a great group of seniors, and I’m going to hate losing them. At the same time, we’re excited to be finishing the year on a big performance like this.”

Cross wanted to thank First United Methodist Church Trinity campus for allowing the choral department to use the church facility for the concert.

“Trinity has been very supportive of us,” Cross said. “Trinity campus is a beautiful facility and is a wonderful place for the community to come and enjoy the BRHS Spring Concert.”

Kicking off at 2 p.m. Sunday, the Benjamin Russell choral department Spring Concert is free and open to the public.

Alex City’s Ware honored with Archie Wade Award STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Ryan Ware of Alexander City received the Archie Wade Award from The University of Alabama’s Black Faculty and Staff Association in March. The association’s Academic Premier Awards honor UA students on Black Scholars Day. The mission of the Black Faculty and Staff Association is to contribute to the betterment of UA a by serving as an advocate for educational equity, with an emphasis on African-American students, and the professional needs of its members. To that end, this organization promotes and provides opportunities for networking among individuals and groups to articulate mutual concerns and advance educational opportunities.

The University of Alabama, the state’s oldest and largest public institution of higher education, is a student-centered research university that draws the best and brightest to an academic community committed to providing a premier undergraduate and graduate education. UA is dedicated to achieving excellence in scholarship, collaboration and intellectual engagement; providing public outreach and service to the state of Alabama and the nation; and nurturing a campus environment that fosters collegiality, respect and inclusivity.

Report shows Alabama had great year in industry recruitment STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

The newly released 2017 New & Expanding Industry Report shows Alabama had a banner year in attracting new industry and creating jobs across the state.

Companies planning new facilities or expanding existing operations in Alabama announced nearly 15,500 new jobs and more than $4.4 billion in capital investment during 2017, according to a comprehensive report detailing economic development activity in the state last year.

The report shows that key industrial sectors such as automotive and aerospace continue to expand. The important forest product and food production sectors also turned in strong performances last year.

“I’m committed to creating high-paying jobs that transform the lives of Alabamians and bring new levels of prosperity to communities across the state,” Governor Kay Ivey said. “For Alabama to continue our recent success of job creation, it’s vitally important that we continue to pursue 21st Century jobs for our people.

Momentum is on our side, and I will continue leading the charge in helping every Alabama family achieve their goals.”

Key findings in the report include:

Alabama’s economic development efforts resulted in securing 317 projects

last year, resulting in 15,465 new and future jobs and $4.41 billion in new capital investment. Those totals exceed 2016’s figures – 14,707 jobs and $4.2 billion in investment.

Jefferson County led all Alabama counties in job growth from 2017 projects, with 2,200 anticipated jobs. Rural Dallas County led in new capital investment in 2017, with $556.2 million.

Alabama attracted foreign direct investment from 16 different countries, generating 3,391 new and future jobs, as well as more than $1.2 billion in investment. South Korea was the top source for jobs, with 1,216 anticipated positions.

The momentum from a solid 2017 in economic development in Alabama has carried over into 2018.

Already this year, the state has landed major projects including a Toyota-Mazda auto assembly plant that will create 4,000 jobs in Huntsville and a Kimber firearms factory that will create 366 jobs in Troy.

“We’re going to be energetically pursuing more of these projects because we want to bring more jobs home to Alabama,” Ivey said.

Goal: Job creation

Greg Canfield, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, said the 2017 results outlined in the report align with

the priorities of Accelerate Alabama 2.0, the state’s updated economic development growth plan.

“Our economic development strategy has centered on developing longstanding relationships with high-caliber companies from the U.S. and around the world so that they will put down roots in the state and grow through expansions over many years,” Secretary Canfield said. “Our primary goal is to create top-quality jobs and meaningful opportunities for people all across the state.”

The largest 2017 project, based on jobs created, was Aerojet Rocketdyne’s expansion in Huntsville. The Californiabased company is building a new manufacturing facility for its AR1 rocket engine and relocating many functions related to its defense business to Alabama, creating a total of 800 jobs.

Other large job-creating projects included:

Autocar announced plans to open an assembly facility for heavy-duty work trucks in Birmingham, creating 746 jobs.

Walmart announced that it will open an import distribution center in Mobile with 550 jobs.

Mercedes-Benz broke ground on a Global Logistics Center in rural Bibb County that will be staffed with 502 workers. (The automaker also announced

plans for a battery plant, but the dimensions of that project have not been finalized.)

John Soules Foods plans to create 500 jobs in Chambers County as it expands its production capacity.

Project breakdown

A detailed look at the 2017 New & Expanding Industry Report shows that a majority of the projects involved expansions of existing facilities in Alabama. There were 256 expansion projects last year, involving $2.7 billion in capital investment and 8,367 anticipated jobs.

The 61 projects involving new facilities are expected to create almost as many jobs – 7,098, according to the report. New capital investment tied to these projects approached $1.7 billion.

Following Jefferson, the top counties for project-related job creation in 2017 were:

• Madison: 1,828 • Montgomery: 1,056 • Mobile: 797 • Chambers: 585

Counties ranking behind Dallas for the most new investment were: • • • •

Morgan: $516.3 million Madison: $492.2 million Mobile: $339.1 million Bibb: $281.5 million

Sports RISE TO THE TOP LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228

lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com

Outlook

Weekend Edition, April 28-29, 2018

The

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Terrell Owens inducted into Alabama Sports Hall of Fame

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

errell Owens is known for being one of the greatest NFL receivers of all time. He’s known for his uncanny playing ability and his sometimes questionable antics in the locker room. He’s also known for his outlandish touchdown celebrations.

But there’s something few know about one of Alexander City’s most famous natives.

He almost never stepped foot on a football field in college. He almost gave up the sport completely when he was still a Benjamin Russell Wildcat.

It’s not because Owens didn’t love football.

It’s because he wanted to play. But in high school, he didn’t have the size or the skills to earn playing time, and for that, he almost quit the sport altogether.

“Coach (Steve) Savarese, who was my head coach at that time, didn’t give up on me,” Owens said. “There was a time when I wanted to quit football and he wouldn’t allow me to quit. I remember my mom had to get up at like 6 or 7 o’clock in the morning to meet with him and he basically told her he’s not going to let me quit.”

Owens was never a starter at Benjamin Russell. He was a standout athlete on not just the football field but also on the basketball court and for the track team. But he never quite worked his way into a starting position.

Fast forward to 25 years after his graduation from BRHS, and Owens is being inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame today and will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in August.

“I had my three Ds, which are desire, dedication and discipline, but I think there’s two R words that are resonating with me right now,” Owens said. “That’s resilience and relentless. If you have a resilient attitude about things and you have that relentless pursuit of trying to be great, if you’re average and you’re trying to get good. You can’t just

T

Benjamin Russell graduate Terrell Owens checks out his display at the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, and below, is interviewed during the ASHOF media luncheon on Friday.

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

“I’m a perfect example for any kid, but especially in the state of Alabama and especially in Alexander City. If I can make it, you can make it.”

— Terrell Owens Former BRHS Wildcat

See OWENS • Page 12

Homewood’s Hall shatters national high school stolen base record

LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

NFL Draft could produce future stars

By RUBIN E. GRANT Special for AHSAA

Josh Hall was in a hurry.

He had more pressing things on his mind than a national record.

So, when he went into the first game of Homewood’s Class 6A first-round playoff series against Minor on April 20 needing only two stolen bases to break the national record, the Patriots’ senior centerfielder wanted to get it out of the way as quickly as possible.

“I wanted to do it on first at-bat,” Hall said. “I wanted to get on base, then steal second and third, get it out of the way and focus on the business of winning.”

Hall did get on base in the first inning but was balked to second. He then stole third to tie the national record.

He didn’t have to wait long for his next opportunity. He reached on a bunt single in the second inning, then bolted for second, easily beating the

O Submitted / AHSAA

Homewood’s Josh Hall sets the national record with his 212th career stolen base last week.

throw for the 212th steal of his career to eclipse the national record of 211 previously held by Haddon McIntosh of Norman Community School in Oklahoma.

Hall’s teammates rushed onto the field to congratulate him and Hall removed the second base bag to highlight the moment. He then embraced his dad Lee Hall, the Patriots’ head coach.

“It was a pretty amazing feeling,” Josh Hall said. “I felt better about the state record, but this is on a much larger scale

with it being a national record and being in the state playoffs.”

Hall broke the Alabama High School Athletic Association record on March 14 by stealing his 165th career base against John Carroll Catholic. Scottie Burdeshaw of Slocomb set the previous mark (164) from 2005-10.

“We felt like he would get that,” Lee Hall said. “The national record is something we didn’t think about. But after he broke the state record, the media said he was closing in on the national record. For him

to do that was unexpected, but great to see.”

Josh Hall finished his recordsetting day with nine steals, bringing his total to 219, as the Patriots swept Minor 16-0 and 15-3 to advance to the second round. The 5-foot-9, 175-pound left-handed batter reached base on each of his eight plate appearances with four hits, three walks and a hit by pitch.

Hall is playing his first — and only — season at Homewood after transferring from Randolph High School See RECORD • Page 12

LOCAL SPORTS CALENDAR Saturday, April 28 High school boys soccer Class 6A First Round Playoffs Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa at Benjamin Russell, 5 p.m.

High school track & field Benjamin Russell in sectional meet at Mountain Brook

Dadeville, Reeltown in sectional meet at Beauregard College baseball Snead State at Central Alabama (2), 2 p.m.

Monday, April 30 High school boys golf Benjamin Russell in Class 6A Sectionals at

Timberline, TBA College baseball Central Alabama at Wallace Dothan, 2 p.m.

Tuesday, May 1 High school girls golf Benjamin Russell in Class 6A Sectionals, TBA

ne thing I’ve learned over the years of being an NFL Draft watcher is that the first round doesn’t always matter that much.

Of course there were some absolutely great picks Thursday night in Round 1. Obviously there’s Cleveland’s choice of Baker Mayfield, who can’t possibly make the Browns worse. (As a quick side note — I always wonder if potential draft picks are sitting around saying, “Please not the Browns, please not the Browns.”

Sorry, Baker. Hopefully this year will be different.)

I also think the New York Giants picking Saquon Barkley was extremely smart. Up until as late as yesterday afternoon, I saw some analysts saying Barkley wasn’t firstround worthy. That’s crazy, and I’m not just being a Penn State homer. I’ll reiterate what Joe McAdory wrote earlier this week — Saquon Barkley has the potential to be a franchise player. His vision is uncanny, his agility is unparalleled, and he has the speed to go along with it. Look for Barkley to be a guy like Adrian Peterson or LaDainian Tomlinson, and I say that even with the knowledge the NFL has turned into a pass-first league.

Also, I should mention Alabama did exceptionally well in the first round, sending off four guys in 32 picks. That’s not bad odds. Minkah Fitzpatrick will be a great fit for See DRAFT • Page 12

Page 12

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Horseshoe Bend can’t hang on vs. Elmore County STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Having fallen to Elmore County in just five innings last week, Horseshoe Bend knew it was in for an uphill battle Wednesday night against the Panthers.

And although the Generals showed some much-needed improvement, it wasn’t quite enough for the victory.

Elmore County scored three runs in the bottom of the fifth to secure a 3-1 win.

After a scoreless first inning, Horseshoe Bend broke through in the top of the second. Hannah Adcock singled to lead off and was moved to third on back-to-back groundouts.

Leighann McWhorter then hit a hard groundball and reached first on an error that gave Adcock time to score.

Although Horseshoe Bend had a handful of chances after that, it couldn’t plate any more runs and finished with just four hits. Adcock had a pair of singles, McWhorter smacked a double

and Lily Combs contributed a single.

Danielle Mitchell had a strong day in the circle but two Horseshoe Bend errors allowed Elmore County to score a trio of runs, all of which were unearned.

Mitchell scattered only four hits and didn’t walk any; she also struck out six.

few on Senko. It was just one of those days. I caught my biggest fish with 30 minutes to go.”

David Gaston, of Sylacauga, took home the second-place prize with a weight of 15.55 pounds, and Shaye Baker, of Tallassee, was third with 14.21 pounds.

OUTDOORS Alabama native wins big on Lake Martin

Dixie Sailing Club hosts Region 3 Championship

Josh Stracner, of Vandiver, won the American Bass Anglers Open Series Alabama South tournament on Lake Martin last weekend, pulling in a total of $12,000. His winning weight was the five-fish limit of 16.91 pounds with his biggest fish marking in at 4.21 pounds.

“I started fishing the lower end of the lake for about an hour then I ran back about halfway up and caught three on a seawall, one on a dock and one sight-fishing today,” Stracner told anglerschannel.com. “I caught my fish on top-water, on a spinnerbait and a

Lake Martin’s Dixie Sailing Club hosted the Region 3 Championship last week with some of the top racers from around the area.

Winning the regatta was Dennis Slaton, of Lake Lanier Sailing Club.

Slaton and his crew of Wynn Story and Doug Thome dominated the four Gold Fleet races, taking three firsts and a second to become the Region 3 champion.

The Silver Fleet race was also a runaway with Ron Jenkie, of DSC, winning three races and taking second in one.

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Horseshoe Bend’s Cheyanna Howard, right, leads off first base against Central Coosa’s Emma Whaley earlier this week.

Owens

continued from page 11

go from average to great right away. There’s a progress in there. I did it, and I know that (others) can do it. You have to believe in yourself and surround yourself with good people.”

Owens’ saga is the definition of an inspirational story. He rose from a virtual bench player to one of the alltime greats. After storming onto the football scene at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Owens was drafted in 1996, playing the majority of his career for the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys. He was selected to the Pro Bowl six times, and his 15,934 receiving yards ranks second in NFL history. He is also third in receiving touchdowns with 153 in his career.

“I’m a perfect example for any kid, but especially in the state of Alabama and especially in Alexander City,” Owens said. “If I can make it, you can make it.

Now I’m in the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and I’m about to be inducted into Canton (Ohio, where the Pro Football Hall of Fame is located). I don’t know any more motivation those kids need, other than you really just have to do some self-reflection. If you have to understand that if you want to be something special, you have to do some different things.”

Owens was passed up on by the Pro Football Hall of Fame committee twice before his ultimate selection this year, and because of that, the induction into the Alabama Sports Hall of

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Top, Benjamin Russell grad Terrell Owens, right, does an interview with Dabo Swinney during the ASHOF media luncheon Friday. Both will be inducted to the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame tonight in Birmingham. Above, Owens’ senior athletic award from BRHS is on display at the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame among other memorabilia. Right, ASHOF Executive Director Scott Myers, right, shows Owens his display case at the Hall of Fame in Birmingham.

Draft

Fame may be that much more special to him.

“That’s not to slight the other one,” Owens said.

“But I’ve been open and candid about the process in which the Pro Football Hall of Fame has been conducted. There’s no bias to (the ASHOF). There’s no political stance. They recognize me for what I’ve done and my body of work.”

The official ASHOF Induction Ceremony is tonight at the Sheraton Ballroom in Birmingham.

Other members of the 2018 Class, which is the 50th HOF class, are Stewart Clink, Johnny Davis, Chan Gailey, Tim Hudson, Bill Jones, Kathy McMinn and Dabo Swinney.

Owens is just one of many famous names that are in the ASHOF, and being among those greats was the biggest blessing for Owens.

“You think about the people that are in this Hall of Fame, and it’s very, very special,” Owens said. “It’s very special the class that I’m going in with. You think about the Jesse Owenses, the Bo Jacksons, the Carl Lewises, you can go around this room and pick out people that will stand out.

For me, it’s very special.

“Not many people get to go into two Hall of Fames in the same year within six months of each other, and I think that’s kind of a testament and really God just acknowledging and confirming a lot of things as far as if there was any doubt about who I am and what I’ve accomplished, this is it.”

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the Miami Dolphins, and Washington’s defensive line can only improve with Da’ron Payne. Outside linebacker Rashaan Evans went to the Tennessee Titans, and receiver Calvin Ridley was selected by the Falcons. Not a bad day at the office for the Tide.

But ultimately, I think it’s important to remember how much the order of the draft does not matter. In most cases, yes, the No. 1 overall draft selection is expected to have a great career and usually delivers.

But there are many studs selected out of

the second and third rounds and even later.

Look at Benjamin Russell grad Terrell Owens, whose inspirational story is told on this very page. He wasn’t drafted until the third round.

One of the greats of the current era, and one who will go down as one of the best quarterbacks of all time, Tom Brady, wasn’t drafted until the sixth round.

As much as I hate to admit it, Antonio Brown, of the Pittsburgh Steelers, was possibly the best receiver in the league this year, and he wasn’t drafted until round

five, and Seattle’s Richard Sherman, who has been explosive both on and off the field, was also taken in the fifth round.

Elvis Dumervil, who in eight seasons is already in the top 50 in league history in sacks, was taken in the fourth round; and I’ll leave you with Marques Colston, who basically carried my fantasy football team one year. He had five consecutive 1,000yard seasons and he was selected in the seventh and final round.

The point is, most NFL fans put all their stock into who was picked in the first

ALABAMA SPORTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION SPRING RANKINGS FINAL SOFTBALL RANKINGS CLASS 7A 1. Sparkman (33-4) 2. Baker (40-8) 3. Oak Mountain (23-11) 4. Spain Park (29-6) 5. Hewitt-Trussville (41-7) 6. Fairhope (29-5) 7. Thompson (39-7-1) 8. Buckhorn (21-14-1) 9. Vestavia Hills (32-19) 10. Tuscaloosa County (27-13) Others nominated: Auburn (30-12), Bob Jones (26-13), Central-Phenix City (25-19-1), Enterprise (27-19-2), Huntsville (27-10), James Clemens (2412), Smiths Station (20-12), Theodore (23-18-1).

CLASS 6A 1. Gardendale (40-6) 2. Hazel Green (32-9) 3. Daphne (37-10) 4. Northview (31-14) 5. Saraland (29-6) 6. Helena (26-9) 7. Brookwood (27-14) 8. Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa (25-6) 9. Hartselle (29-12)

10. Southside-Gadsden (3014) Others nominated: Athens (25-13), Austin (17-14), Fort Payne (24-14-1), Jasper (18-6), Pell City (28-12), Pinson Valley (16-19), Stanhope Elmore (2318), Wetumpka (17-20).

CLASS 5A 1. Springville (34-6) 2. Hayden (32-7) 3. Alexandria (33-7) 4. Rehobeth (34-8-1) 5. Faith Academy (30-8) 6. Ardmore (26-7) 7. Scottsboro (22-11-1) 8. Mortimer Jordan (26-15) 9. Lawrence County (22-15-1) 10. Corner (26-15) Others nominated: Demopolis (25-14), East Limestone (1916), Eufaula (27-11), Jemison (23-8), Lincoln (24-17-1), Moody (24-15), Russellville (17-15-1).

CLASS 4A 1. Alabama Christian (36-8) 2. Wilson (38-3) 3. Holtville (32-10)

4. North Jackson (30-8) 5. Hale County (27-10) 6. Bibb County (19-9) 7. Cherokee County (28-6) 8. Northside (29-17) 9. Tallassee (29-11) 10. Madison Academy (24-7) Others nominated: CentralFlorence (16-14-2), Cordova (23-19), Danville (18-13-3), LAMP (16-9-1), Westminster Christian (15-13), Winfield (2310).

CLASS 3A 1. Plainview (29-8) 2. Locust Fork (27-4) 3. Pisgah (27-9) 4. Prattville Christian (30-9) 5. American Christian (26-7) 6. Providence Christian (25-10) 7. Wicksburg (31-8) 8. Pleasant Valley (30-14) 9. Excel (26-9) 10. Lauderdale County (2514-1) Others nominated: Carbon Hill (26-18), East Lawrence (16-12-1), Elkmont (24-11-1), Geneva (25-17), Oakman (1411), Slocomb (25-18).

CLASS 2A 1. Mars Hill Bible (31-12) 2. Hatton (38-10) 3. Lamar County (26-10) 4. Reeltown (26-9-1) 5. G.W. Long (25-15) 6. Leroy (25-5-1) 7. Collinsville (25-15) 8. Ider (24-17-1) 9. Sand Rock (20-12) 10. Cold Springs (18-10) Others nominated: Ariton (25-14), Falkville (17-21), Fayetteville (13-11), Fyffe (159), J.U. Blacksher (14-8-1).

CLASS 1A 1. Brantley (38-4) 2. South Lamar (24-4) 3. Sumiton Christian (22-17) 4. Appalachian (20-7) 5. Spring Garden (23-12-1) 6. Kinston (14-12) 7. Sweet Water (17-13) 8. Pleasant Home (13-10) 9. Skyline (12-14) 10. Ragland (14-15) Others nominated: Berry (17-12-1), Lynn (16-16), Meek (22-14).

round. I’ll be the first to admit I wasn’t through the roof when the Detroit Lions selected Frank Ragnow (who?!), a center out of Arkansas, on Thursday night with their first-round pick. But one lousy pick does not a shattered draft make. There’s plenty of damage still to be done, and those selected in later rounds may not be as big of names now but they could be even bigger surprises later.

Lizi Arbogast is the sports editor of The Outlook.

Record

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in Huntsville when his dad, who was the coach there, accepted the Patriots’ coaching position.

Hall is headed to Ole Miss, signing with the Rebels last fall.

He set the AHSAA single-season stolen base record with 81 steals in 45 games during his sophomore season in 2016 at Randolph, breaking a record (75) set by Kevin Harrison of Maplesville 21 years earlier in 1997. He has 77 steals in 79 attempts this season in 36 games with Homewood (27-9) playing Gardendale (21-9) in the second round of the Class 6A state playoffs, which began Friday. The series is best 2-of-3. He needs 27 more stolen bases to set the NFHS single-season record (103), currently held

by Silento Sayles of Port Gibson (MS).

Hall is currently hitting .520 on the season with 53 hits in 102 official at bats. His on-base percentage is .630, reaching base 85 times in his 137 plate appearances (including 28 walks and four hit-by-pitches).

Being the national record holder is not something Hall is savoring at the moment.

“It’s something I’ll do after the season is over,” he said. “Right now I’m focused of taking my team to a state championship.”