Aug 24, 2017 Dadeville Record

PAGE 5

OPINION, PAGE 4

SPORTS, PAGE 8

Church Fun Day to be held in September

C.J. Tolbert is living out his dreams

Football gets state’s collective arteries pumping

THE RECO CORD RD Serving the Dadeville & Lake Martin area since i 1897 8

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VOL. 120, NO. 34

THURSDAY, AUGUST 24, 2017

INSIDE TODAY: This year’s all inclusive high school football preview Also on Friday Horseshoe Bend travels to Sylacauga to face B.B. Comer and Coosa Central will For weeks and weeks, the Outlook entertain Catholic of Montgomery. has been preparing for the upcoming Ready for some football? We have football season, and now it’s finally just what you need. here. Three teams hit the gridiron for Inside today, you’ll find our Week Zero, while next week, all five exclusive Gridiron Guide to all your area teams will be in action. preseason football needs. We’ve Tonight, Reeltown travels to play got rosters, schedules, stadium rival Notasulga to get the season information and in-depth previews started. The Dadeville Tigers will take for each teams’ seasons. We’ve also selected a 2017 Outlook fantasy the field Friday night as they play football team, which gives you an host to the always tough LaFayette inside look at who will be some of Bulldogs.

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

the best players from around the area, plus we have an early look at Lyman Ward Military Academy’s new coach John McNeal.

Head online for even more coverage, where we’ll be releasing a “Three Keys to Success” series, which will tell you the most important things to know about each area team.

Join us live on Facebook every Friday night and check the rest of our digital coverage.

After all this wait, it’s time to let the games begin.

City council terminates agreement with grant writer

Camp Hill officer terminated by mayor, another resigns

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Camp Hill Police Officer Derrick Coley was terminated by at Monday’s Camp Hill meeting by Mayor Ezell Smith without a vote or conformation by the council.

This comes on the heels of a rocky relationship between former and now Police Chief Johnny Potts and Smith.

Smith had alleged Coley called her and members of the town staff a derogatory name, a conversation recorded by Coley presented by Coley’s Opelika attorney Courtney Murchinson.

The approximately 10-minute recording was played for the council.

It recorded Coley cursing about five times but not directed at anyone person and he is also shown as saying he apologized for the language.

“I am sorry Keisha,” Coley is heard saying in the recording.

The conversation stemmed from Coley trying to collect overtime pay.

“I worked and need to be paid,” Coley said in the recording.

Coley explained in the recording that it was the third time the non-payment of overtime had occurred was leading to issues with his See OFFICER • Page 3

B DONALD CAMPBELL By SStaff Writer

DERBY DAY FUN

First annual soap box derby entertains area

See COUNCIL • Page 2

Dadeville man arrested after bizarre incident

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

The first annual Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby kicked off Saturday with around 30 children and their cars ready to race down Columbus Street next to the Dadeville Cemetery and the football stadium.

At the top of the hill, cars of all shapes and sizes were lined up. There were some built in a more traditional soap box style, while others looked like early 20th century roadsters, a kayak and even Lightning McQueen.

There were those made of wood, and those made

The Dadeville City Council voted to terminate their agreement with Monroe te and a Associates, the grant underwriters for demolishing dilapidated structures around d town, during Tuesday night’s council to meeting. m Dadeville Mayor Wayne Smith indicated that the company had stopped in communicating with the town and was not c returning phone calls as the reason behind r terminating their agreement. te

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Cliff Williams / The Record

Top, Chariot Ward, 9, of Dadeville poses with her car after winning the Saturday’s Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby and above, picks up the first place trophy from Marrell Ward.

out of wash tubs and wheelbarrows, looking like something out of the movie “Mad Max.” In addition to the soap box derby, inflatables

and vendors were spread out across the football practice field, selling food, painting faces See DERBY • Page 3

Justin O’Neal Burns was arrested by the Dadeville Police Department Saturday evening after holding law enforcement at bay in a Dadeville neighborhood.

“We had a number of calls of him threatening family members,” said assistant Dadeville Police Department Assistant Chief Chris Martin. “We tried to make contact with him and he took off.”

Martin explained that Burns appeared to be in an altered state and with several reports of Burns with a pistol, authorities decided to take him into custody for sake of public See ARREST • Page 11

Key Club president presents plans to Dadeville Kiwanis Club

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

Donald Campbell / The Record

Dadeville High School Key Club President Cimone Presley talks with the Dadeville Kiwanis Club about her goals for the club’s upcoming year Thursday afternoon.

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Nine members of the Dadeville High School Key Club joined the Dadeville Kiwanis Club during their weekly meeting last Thursday afternoon. Along with being recognized as special guests, Key Club President Cimone Presley stood before the Kiwanians to discuss what she hoped to accomplish during her year as the head of the club.

“My top goal is to raise our membership this year,” she said.

“Ninety-five students signed up during Opportunity Day last week, and I hope that all 95 will show up for our first meeting.”

Presley’s other goals included wanting to build a better bond among the club members, helping those interested in being a part of the Key Club truly understand what it means to be a part of the group, being able to take as many members as possible to their district convention and working with the Kiwanis Club on a combined service project.

“I want to encourage student leadership in the club,” she added.

In addition to her goals of growing the Key Club and increasing the group’s level of student leadership, Presley also talked about a number of fundraising ideas the club officers had been brainstorming.

To raise money for Children’s Hospital, a thought had been floated around to have students pay $2 to have their teacher wear a red nose and a doctor’s coat while teaching their class for one period. Plans for a car wash, along with allowing students to pay to pour a bottle of water over a teacher’s head were formulated as fundraisers for The Thirst Project, a non-profit dedicated to providing clean drinking water to places where such a resource is scarce. Club members had also thought about holding a bake sale to raise money for UNICEF and partnering with the Edward Bell

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See KIWANIS • Page 11

Page 2

Thursday, August 24, 2017

The Dadeville Record

Police Reports Dadeville Police Department August 21

• A report was filed for Theft by Deception that occurred on Mariarden Road.

• A report was filed for Theft of Services that occurred on Adams Street.

August 19

• A report was filed for Theft of Property that occurred on Freeman Drive.

• A Dadeville man, age 50, was arrested for Criminal Trespass and Domestic Violence on Herren Street.

• A Dadeville man, age 27, was arrested for Certain Persons Forbidden Firearms on Fulton Street.

• A Dadeville man, age 28, was arrested for Possession of Marijuana on Bartlett Street.

August 18

• A Dadeville woman,

age 49, was arrested on two warrants for Failure to Appear.

• A Goodwater man, age 28, was arrested for two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia on Main Street.

• A two motor vehicle collision occurred on N. Broadnax Street resulting in minor damage and no injuries.

August 17

• A report was filed for Harassing Communications that occurred on Freeman Drive.

August 16

• A one motor vehicle collision occurred on Young’s Ferry Road at W. Lafayette Street resulting in minor damage and no injuries.

• A Montgomery man, age

A REFUGE FOR THE HOMELESS

20, was arrested for Minor in Possession of Alcohol on Highway 280.

• An Andulusia man, age 20, was arrested for Minor in Possession of Alcohol on Highway 280.

• An Alexander City man, age 55, was arrested on two warrants for Failure to Appear.

• A report was filed for Assault that happened on Herren Street.

Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department August 22

• Mark Williams of Parkway Circle in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear child support.

• Alicia Howell of Lakeview Ridge in Dadeville was arrested on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear child support.

• Kenneth Fuller of Cotton Lane in Alexander City was arrested on three grand jury indictments for fraudulent use of a credit debit card.

August 21

• A report was filed on Denver Road in Dadeville for criminal trespassing.

• Akeem Russell of Alexander City was arrested on grand jury indictments for obstructing justice and disorderly conduct while incarcerated at the county jail.

• Ashley Ford of Alexander City was arrested for hindering prosecution.

August 20

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Save your Purina weight circles and drop them off or mail them to Rescue K911 P.O. Box 862 Auburn, AL 36831. They all help & add up fast. Thank you for helping the dogs & cats without a home of their own.

This ad is sponsored by Wayside Animal Hospital, Dr. Susan Martin, 256-329-9900. Spay/neuter assistance is available from RESCUE K9-1-1, Wayside Animal Hospital 256-329-9900 or Lake Martin Humane Society 256-234-5533.

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• A resident of Highway 22 East in Daviston filed a report for criminal mischief.

• A resident of New Hope Circle in Dadeville filed a report for assault.

August 19

• Danny Kelley of Alexander City was arrested on four grand jury indictments for burglary third, theft of property third, received stolen property fourth and possession of marijuana second.

Council

continued from page 1

The city had not yet found a new group to assist in the grant writing, but they would be weighing their options, according to Dadeville City Clerk Mike Gardner.

“We’re looking around for someone to help us out,” he said. “We have time to think about it and pick someone up in the next few months.”

On a more positive note, the mayor and the city council praised Marrell Ward for his hard work in making Saturday’s soap box derby such a big success.

“If you missed the soap box derby, you missed a good one,” Councilwoman Brownie Caldwell said.

“We want to recognize you for what you did with the derby,” Smith told Ward.

Ward presented two certificates of appreciation to the council, showing his thanks for the assistance the council and the city of Dadeville as a whole had given him to make the event as great of a success as it was.

Representatives for the Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce were also present, presenting the chamber’s plans for a Dadeville Fall Festival scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 23.

The event is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m., with a wide range of activities including 20 food and craft booths, face painting, a classic car show, an archaeological display at the Tallapoosee Historical Museum, inflatables and live entertainment from the River Dan Band. The plans included a detailed map about how the event would be set up. A subsequent motion by the council approving this event passed unanimously.

“This is really going to be something good,” Smith said.

The following items were also on the agenda during Tuesday night’s meeting: • Minutes from the Aug. 8 meeting were approved.

• Abbi Mangarelli reported that July had been a relatively slow month at the library. She also informed the council they needed to appoint someone to the library board, as one of the members had moved away. Lastly, she said the library was looking for help with raising $2,500 in matching funds to accompany

a $10,000 grant the library had received to purchase new juvenile fiction with.

• The building department reported they had received one complaint on weed abatement, and they would be having a zoning meeting at city hall on Monday.

• Caldwell said the gas board was still waiting on the company to come in and begin work on updating the gas line between the Methodist church and Fred’s.

• All parties involved with the Courthouse Square project were still awaiting the results of the core samples being analyzed by the state.

• Smith said he had met with representatives of ALDOT and the contractor regarding the ATRIP/ Lafayette Street project last week. The work was winding down, with the contractor shaving the asphalt to contour the paving, while the final striping and placing the reflectors would mark the end of work.

• The North Loop situation was rapidly reaching a resolution, which Smith believed would come within the next couple of days.

• Several bids had come in on clearing the brush and growth along the right-ofway on Alabama Highway 49, and this would be started within the next few days. “I want to thank the water board for getting started on 49,” Councilman Dick Harrelson said.

• Smith reported two people had submitted their names as being interested in serving on the Senior Nutrition Advisory Council, but he and the council were holding out for another three names to come in.

• A motion for city offices to be closed on Monday, Sept. 4 in observance of Labor Day was passed.

• A request to rent the rec center was approved.

• Smith reminded the council and everyone present of the groundbreaking ceremony for the new DHR building on Monday, Aug. 28 at 9 a.m.

The next meeting of the Dadeville City Council will be Tuesday, Sept. 12 at Dadeville City Hall. Pre-council meeting begins at 5:30 p.m., with the regular meeting to follow at 6 p.m.

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Page 3

The Dadeville Record

Officer

continued from page 1

personal finances.

Members of the council were upset a little by Coley’s comments but could see where he was coming from.

“I would have been upset too if that happened to me,” Council Member Dean Bonner said. “I appreciate that you apologized.”

The council also heard a phone conversation between Smith and a patrol officer where Smith was informing the officer of the demotion of Potts and termination of Coley and offering him the interim chief position.

The officer responded he needed time to think about.

“Let this soak in,” the officer is heard telling Smith with town attorney Charles Gillenwaters in the background. “Let me eat and talk to my wife.”

It was alleged by Coley that Smith had alerted others to her move.

“She told some in the community that she was going to fire me, chief, Keisha,” Coley said in the meeting.”

After the meeting,

attorneys for Coley said there were more recordings.

Smith would not allow the council a vote on the matter, which might bring Alabama Code 11-43-240 into play.

“Every municipality shall establish written due process procedures applicable to the pre-disciplinary hearing,” the code reads. “At a minimum, this due process shall consist of written notice to the officer of the reasons for the termination or suspension. This notice shall be issued by the person or persons with authority to suspend or terminate the law enforcement officer. The notice shall inform the officer that he or she has 10 days to request, in writing, a hearing before the person or persons with authority to suspend or terminate. If the officer fails to request the hearing within 10 days from receiving the notice, the right to any hearing shall be deemed waived.”

Coley requested the hearings when given the 10-day notice. The code also states “the hearing should be

conducted by an impartial officer or body with authority to suspend or terminate the law enforcement officer.”

“Officer Coley, you are fired,” Smith said in the meeting prior to a possible vote. “Y’all can vote on chief.”

The move brings into question the authority of the mayor and council to not go along with the termination, especially since multiple councils have stated the town’s employment manuals are in disarray and the current council is in discussions to remedy the problem and Coley agreed to hearings.

Prior administrations have asked the council to vote on or confirm such terminations all the way down to a parttime patrol officer.

The officer who was first offered the interim chief’s job asked about the procedures in place to hire from within, the posting of the lieutenant– investigator position which the officer says he was left out of. To add misery to the department’s struggles with staffing, The Record has

confirmed the resignation of recently hired Lt. Danny Williams Tuesday morning.

Williams was hired by Smith as an interim and then hired as interim chief and then offered the lieutenant– investigator position by council vote just two weeks ago.

Smith also wanted to change the schedule of the police department and paying the officers on a bi-weekly basis instead of weekly, something Potts and council members were against.

Smith said the move would allow the town more flexibility in pay bills.

After some discussion, Police Committee Chair Duane Blackwell made a motion to allow the chief to make the schedule for the department but give the mayor a copy.

Members of the council also questioned Smith about the financial audits saying that since taking office in November they had not seen anything.

Smith explained that auditors were asking for

Derby

more information as what was given to them under the prior administration.

The council expressed another concern with the town’s finances.

“I am head of the finance committee,” Bonner said.

“I don’t have access to anything. We are not getting what comes in and sometimes what goes out.”

Smith said their packets had contained the information.

Previous council members have asked for a summary each meeting. It has been previously explained that Quickbooks, a software the town paid the Auburn University Government and Economic Development Institute to install and load previous data into the program, can generate the report.

The Camp Hill Town Council also: • again tabled a contract with the Opelika Housing Authority to provide security in the Camp Hill location.

The council and Potts wanted the payment of officers

to handled as in the past by paying them weekly and issuing 1099s for tax purposes.

• approved a perk test for a home to see what needs to be done to put it on a septic sewer system, since the constant pumping station failures in the front of the home cause sewage to back up into the home.

• approved minutes from the last meeting and the last special called meeting.

• approved payment of bills according to priorty.

• approved to front up to $400 for signage for the Flea Market benefiting the parks and recreation department and the fire department. They also approved a free booth rental for the Sept. 9 market in hopes of attracting more vendors and customers.

• heard from Jackie Ennis who thanked the council and those that have been involved in positive things like the Back to School Giveaway.

The next meeting of the Camp Hill Town Council has been moved to 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 5.

continued from page 1

and selling clothing ranging from dresses to Dadeville baseball caps.

“There are close to 30 cars here today,” event organizer Marrell Ward said. “There are no words to say how much of a thrill this gave me to see.”

Shortly after 1 p.m., the races kicked off, as each featured two cars dueling for the win and the chance to move that much closer to the championship.

“It felt good coming down the hill, and I feel lucky that I won,” Hudson Smith from Stillwaters said after coming out on top during the first race of the day.

After a multitude of races that slowly whittled down the field of racers, the championship race came down to a car emblazoned

with the Nesquik bunny and a car built to look like a kayak, both of which remained undefeated going in to the final race. After several intense and exhilarating moments as the two sped down the hill, the kayak car driven by Ducky Ward’s niece Chariot Ward emerged victorious. Brady Knox in the Nesquik car was awarded second place, while Logan Champion claimed third place in the inaugural Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby.

“It feels good to be the winner. My uncle was in it.”

Ward said following the race.

“My poppa designed the car.

He worked night and day on it.”

Those in the crowd expressed how much they were enjoying the events of Saturday afternoon.

“I feel it’s something good for the community to get out and experience,” Tallapoosa County EMA Director Jason Moran said as he stood near the finish line as the races began.

“So far, this has been a pretty nice event. I hope it builds,” said Dadeville Fire Deputy Chief Mike Parker. “I support Mr. Ward, and I think this could be a really good thing for Dadeville.”

Parker added that the Dadeville Fire Department officially challenged the Dadeville Police Department to a race during next year’s derby.

“I’m not going to be giving away any of our secrets, but they might be in for a surprise,” he said.

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Police Department and the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department were present and handing out information to the children during the festivities, teaching them about being safe.

“We’ve got fire prevention going on,” Dadeville Fire Chief Anthony Wilkerson said. “We have coloring books and kids’ fire hats we’re giving out, teaching them about fire safety.”

As the day drew to a close, Ward presented trophies to the racers finishing first, second and third, along with an award for the car named “best in show,” won by Adam Ward.

“I want to thank all of our sponsors. Without them, we couldn’t have done it today,” Ward said. “It’s a blessing from God.”

TALLAPOOSA COUNT Y BOARD OF EDUCATION IDENTIFICATION OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

The Tallapoosa County Board of Education is in the process of Identifying students with disabilities between the ages of newborn and 21. If you have knowledge of a child with a disability who is not enrolled in a program for students with disabilities or would like more information, contact Special Education Services at (256) 825-0746, ext. 23.

IDENTIFICATION OF GIFTED/TALENTED STUDENTS

The Tallapoosa County Board of Education is accepting Referrals for students who exhibit gifted/talented characteristics. For more information, contact Special Education Services at (256) 825-0746 ext. 23.

Gifted students are those who perform at or who have demonstrated the potential to perform at high levels in academic or creative ¿elds when compared to others of their age, experience, or environment. These students require services not ordinarily provided by the regular school program.

Students possessing these abilities can be found in all populations, across all economic strata, and in all areas of human endeavor. Teachers, counselors, administrators, parents or guardians, peers, self, or any other individuals with knowledge of the student’s abilities may refer a student. Additionally, all second grade students will be observed as potential gifted referrals using a gifted behavior checklist. For each student referred, information is gathered in the areas of Aptitude, Characteristics, and Performance. The information is entered on a matrix where points are assigned according to established criteria. The total number of points earned determines if the student quali¿es for gifted services. To make a referral please contact the Special Education Services Department.

IDENTIFICATION OF STUDENTS IN NEED OF 504 SERVICES

The Tallapoosa County Board of Education is in the process of identifying students that may have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity and may require Section 504 accommodations. For more information, contact Special Education Services at (256) 825-0746 ext. 23.

Page

4

EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker - Publisher Mitch Sneed - Editor

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Editorial

OurView

My little America is a much better place Mission Soap Box Derby was Dadeville at its best

H

ave you ever gone to a community event and the second you arrived you felt an excitement and electricity in the air that just made you realize instantaneously that you were about to be part of something special?

Those who made their way to the Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby in Dadeville Saturday likely experienced that feeling.

More than a thousand people attended the event which featured bouncy houses, food vendors, games for the kids, fire trucks, local law enforcement displays and some incredible races featuring kids and cars that were made with love and creativity.

Marrell Ward was the driving force behind the derby and he deserves a standing ovation.

It was his idea, but Ward did far more than just concentrate on the big picture.

He worked tirelessly lining up vendors and volunteers, collecting all the things that were needed for the race and even building seven cars for kids to drive in the race.

To see the smiles on the faces of the drivers as they flew down the hill was an incredible sight. The Dadeville Police Department even had its speed trailer on site so they could see how fast they were going. There was one heat where the number clicked over the 20 mph plateau to 21 mph and the winner pumped his fist and let out a yell.

Then there was the winner Chariot Ward, laying down inside her car relaxing just before the races began. She had on her Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby T-shirt and her face was painted from a booth at the festival that happened all around the racetrack. “This is the comfiest I have been all day,” she said.

To see the dads and friends who helped build the cars with the kids talk about how they were constructed and how they fine-tuned them for races day was special. Imagine how much quality time between kids and adults went into the cars and the races. Isn’t that refreshing?

Congratulations to all involved in the Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby. The drivers, car builders, parents, organizers, vendors, exhibitors, volunteers, local first-responders and spectators all created something special. You should all be proud.

Our

T

here is so much racial chaos in the news. I hate it. It really doesn’t have to be this way.

After a long day, I pulled into my driveway in my little neighborhood and just looked around. I am so blessed. I can see about half the houses in my ‘hood from my yard.

My neighborhood consists of around 30-35 houses.

It’s like a little America, and I love it.

First, let’s get the bad out of the way. The first house you come upon when you enter Little America is vacant and it has been since I bought my house in 2009. I think it was a foreclosure and is still in limbo. I don’t understand all the legalities of that, but it is what it is. It’s not good, but it’s a reality.

As you drive on through, you see all kinds of goodness.

My next-door neighbors are what neighbors should be. We’ve helped each other out a lot over the past couple of years in a variety of ways. For example, I’ve taken care of their dog when they were out of town, and they’ve taken care of Ruby and Abbey when I’ve been away. They are very neighborly, and I try to return the favor.

They are a young couple and just happen to be Caucasian.

My other neighbors are relatively new. As the old folks say, they are a “mixed” couple from Texas. He is a white dude and she is a Latina.

They have two beautiful children. I’ve talked to him several times, but she is usually busy with the

JODY FULLER Columnist

babies.

Speaking of old folks, we have them, too. I love old people. I pray every night that I stay healthy enough to grow old. In one of the homes, I only see the wife. She works out in the yard a lot, while I don’t think I’ve ever seen him. In another home, I never see them except for when they are coming and going. I bet they watch a lot of Murder She Wrote.

Down the road is an African-American family.

I don’t know them, but I wave every time they drive by. I did support their daughter last year for a school fundraiser. I think he’s retired military.

That’s good stuff.

I hardly know any of these folks in my neighborhood. After all, it is 2017. Who knows their neighbors?

Next to them is another middle-aged Caucasian couple. He has a shop in his garage. One day, I’ll have a shop in my garage.

On down is a Korean family, and next to them is a Lesbian couple.

America! Across from them is an older lady who walks her little dog every day. I’m sure she knows everything that goes on in the neighborhood.

Next to her is a family of rednecks. Now, I don’t know this for a fact, because I have never seen them, but I have heard their truck, which registers a 6.8 on the

Richter Scale when it passes my house.

Then there is the mystery house. I’m not sure who lives there. They have tinted windows on their car and disappear into the bat cave when they get home each day.

I don’t know. I just don’t know.

Across from me is a single white female, and next to her is a guy. He’s a good dude, but get this; he’s a Clemson graduate.

As the late, great Lewis Grizzard said, “Clemson is Auburn with a lake.” I call it “the fake Auburn.”

Rounding out the neighborhood is another African-American family.

I know he’s retired military. He even has the license plate to prove it. They are always out working in the yard. They are good folks – lots of waving.

Oh, I almost forgot about the damn Yankees.

We are a very inclusive neighborhood. They’re Bama fans, too, which just goes to show how inclusive we really are.

They’re good folks. I went to school with their kids.

That’s only about half the houses. I’m not sure who lives in the others, but I know who lives in the ones I can see. I like it. I like the make-up of my ‘hood. That’s my little neighborhood. That’s my America.

Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier with three tours of duty in Iraq. He is also a lifetime stutterer. He can be reached at jody@ jodyfuller.com. For more information, please visit www.jodyfuller.com

THE RECORD Football gets state’s collective arteries pumping

Kenneth Boone .......................Owner Steve Baker........................ Publisher Mitch Sneed .............................Editor Tippy Hunter....Advertising Director David Kendrick ....Circulation Manager Angela Mullins. ..............Accounting

The Record’s Online Edition: www.thedadevillerecord.com

E-mail The Record: editor@thedadevillerecord.com

For your advertising and marketing needs: marketing@thedadevillerecord.com The Dadeville Record is published every Thursday by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Subscription rates are $25 per year in Tallapoosa County.

Second-class postage paid at Dadeville, AL 36853; USPS1411660 ISSN: 0739-9677.

The address is 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. The telephone number is (256) 234-4281. The fax number is (256) 234-6550.

Postmaster, please send address changes to P.O. Box 999; Alexander City, AL 35011.

M

y favorite time of the year is here.

I’m sure the same is true with many of you.

It’s time for some football!

Friday night kicks everything off for some schools in the county. In opening night games, Reeltown plays neighborhood rival Notasulga on the road, Dadeville hosts LaFayette, Montgomery Catholic will be at Coosa Central and Benjamin Russell has a scrimmage at Stanhope Elmore.

Next week, all high school teams begin play and there’s college football – with Alabama tangling with Florida State in Atlanta’s new Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Auburn hosting Georgia Southern at always-crazy Jordan Hare, plus a long slate of other games – on Saturday.

In the words of that famous University of Wisconsin fan thing, “Jump around!”

There’s something about football that seems to get this state’s collective arteries pumping. At the beginning of every season hope springs eternal for all, from the smallest Class 1A team in the state to the mighty Alabama Crimson Tide.

In essence, each football season is allegorical – it’s all about hope. Hope that, if things are going well for you, you can stay on top. And if things aren’t going so well, hope that you can

hands, as in Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream, as they huddle on artificially lit Friday nights in quaint stadiums throughout our DAVID football-crazy country.

GRANGER Old men will remember Managing their days on the same Editor turf their grandsons now rebound to count yourself roam. Young men will dream of the day they among the winners. can don the same uniform And as we move into their older brother wears the new season, perhaps into battle. it is the perfect panacea Our state, our for a country that seems Tallapoosa County area, so divided and wrought love our football.

It gives with unease about the world. For a few months, us reason to be proud of how we stack up against perhaps we can set that unease on the back burner counties throughout the state. From county line to and, without ignoring it county line – Millbrook to our detriment, at least to Tallassee – we can all count on our particular hold our heads high in team’s gridiron warriors to provide us some relief. the knowledge that we We’ve a few months to have been at or near the enjoy and by the time the pinnacle. And both of football season is over we our most major college teams have reached their will have turned another pinnacle, too. page on the calendar. We And recently. will have experienced No, there’s no chill in another exciting year the air yet. In fact, it’s of unbelievable plays, still darned hot. wild wins and, perhaps, Yes, play will be inconceivable losses. stopped more than usual But we will emerge on Friday night so that exhilarated and prepared the players can partake of for another two-thirds ample water to keep them of a year without the properly hydrated. game. And we will begin Fans, too, will need anew, as we did in this to keep their fluids past offseason and do in replenished as they will every offseason, thinking likely break a sweat in about what might be “next their Friday night fervor. year.”

No, fall isn’t here yet, Football season is here. but the football season is.

The old and the young And that, alone, is will come together for something to cheer about. occasions like which they rarely spend together.

David Granger is the Communities will find managing editor of the some commonality in Tallapoosa Publishers their feverish cheering for newspapers in Elmore their high school elevens.

Black and white will join County.

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

What’s your

Opinion?

We’d like to share your thoughts and opinions with the greater Lake Martin community. It’s free and it only takes a few moments of your time. We have two ways to get your opinion in print: letters to the editor and guest columns.

The main difference is length.

Letters to the editor are up to 250 words, while guest columns can be up to 500 words. Letters and columns may be sent to P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011, faxed to (256) 234-6550 or e-mailed to editor@alexcityoutlook.com. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send us your thoughts today!

Follow us

On the Web Follow The Record on the Internet on our website or on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Log on to http://www. thedadevillerecord.com. There you will be able to view stories and multimedia posted by The Record.

You can also click on the Facebook link to join The Record fan club or click on the Twitter link to start receiving tweets on your phone as we post updates. Check it out today.

Get

Involved

Communication with elected officials is the key to good government. To let your most local representatives know how you feel about city matters, contact your council representative.

To contact the city hall, please call 256-825-9242.

Betty Adams represents District 1. Her phone number is 256-8256211. Her address is 268 Adams Street, Dadeville.

Betty Adams Brownie Caldwell represents District 2. Her phone number is 256-825-4749.

Her address is 480 East LaFayette St., Dadeville.

Brownie Caldwell

Teneeshia GoodmanJohnson represents District 3. Her phone number is 256-825-9749.

Her address is 1191 Fulton Teneeshia Street, Dadeville. GoodmanRoy Mathis represents District 4.

His phone number is 256-825-4369.

His address is 181 Cedar Hill Drive, Dadeville.

Johnson

Roy Mathis

H.A ‘Dick’ Harrelson represents District 5. His phone number is 256-307-3880.

His address is 333 West Columbus Street., Dadeville.

H.A. ‘Dick’ Harrelson

Wayne Smith is mayor of Dadeville. His phone number is 256-8256820. His address is 156 Oliver Grove, Dadeville.

Wayne Smith

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Page 5

The Dadeville Record

Church Fun Day to be held Sept. 24 at Camp ASCCA First Presbyterian Church News: Service at the Presbyterian Church last Sunday was great. The sermon was titled “God is in Control” with scriptures from Isaiah 56, Psalm 67, Romans 11 and Matthew 15.

May the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you rule the peoples with equity and guide the nations of the earth.

May the peoples praise you, God; may all the peoples praise you. May God bless us still so that all the ends of the earth will fear Him. What is the definition of evangelical Christians? What would be a gift from God? Mercy, achieved through disobedience. Jesus, Jesus, May we honor and glorify your name!

Come visit us at the Presbyterian Church and Rev. Ben will make you feel most welcome.

First United Methodist Church News: New meeting time for our youth is on Sundays from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.

Sign-up sheets will be in the Narthex for ways to help with the Children’s Ministry. We are asking church members to help in the following areas: AWANA, teacher or listener,

Sunday School, teacher back up, and music, Christmas program and/or bells. Please prayerfully consider how you can be a blessing to the children of our church and community because you know they will be a blessing to you!

Our prayer breakfast program will start on Friday, Sept. 8. We provide a breakfast feast for our DHS students, but more importantly, we pray for them and with them. Please make plans to join us and help out where you can; set up at 5:30 a.m., serve at 6:30 a.m., and clean up at 8 a.m.. Future prayer breakfasts will be held at our church on September 29 and October 27.

Plans are in the making for a Church Fun Day to be held Sunday, Sept. 24 at Camp ASCCA. Festivities will begin at 1 p.m. Stay tuned for more information!

Important! Youth Director needed. Part-time job available now. Description: Teach Youth, grades 7-12, Sunday School, lead Sunday evening youth activities, lead Wednesday evening Bible study, organize and lead special youth trips and activities; 12 month job with part-time income of $10,000/

men’s Bible study also meet on Wednesday - the men’s Bible study at 7:30 a.m. and choir rehearsal at 6 p.m. The choir needs new members. If BETTY interested see Dr. Kim Walls, HAYES choir director. Donations are Community needed for school backpacks Columnist for children at Dadeville year. Please contact Rev. Elementary School. See Michael Carver at 256-825Sally Gantt or Myrna Lehman 4404 or Jesse Cunningham at for details. The Jail Ministry 256-825-0919. meets at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday On Saturday, August 26 to travel to the jail. Rev. at 7:30 p.m., there will be John Mann and Rev. Vicki a Family Movie Night on Cater of Red Ridge will be the Church Lawn, featuring pastoral leaders. Red Ridge the Disney movie “Moana.” cookbooks are still available, Snacks and drinks will be now at the church welcome available, including the long table and at Pearson’s Gift awaited and talked about shop. The cost is $10 with funnel cakes Brother Mike proceeds going to United has been promising. So bring Methodist Women. Red your blankets!

Ridge responded greatly to Happy Birthday this month the school bus drive. Thanks to Geneva Hewett; Ashley for the generosity. The Jackson; Bob Embry and Jake teachers and the students Outlaw. Happy anniversary to will benefit. A new Sunday Bill and Suzy Farrington.

School class will start Sept.

Red Ridge United 10 on the history of religion Methodist Church: The in America with a lesson on choir’s anthem Sunday the Protestant Reformation. is “Testimony and Praise Dwayne Cox will teach this Medley.” There are several class. RR is still in need of ways to praise God: in the an audio-visual coordinator. dance, with the voice and Contact the church office for with musical instruments. details. The office is open 8 A reminder women’s bible a.m. - noon. study is now at 10 a.m. on RR is located at Wednesday. The choir and 8091 County Road 34,

CommunityCalendar Today is

August 24, 2017 Today’s Events

UNDERAGE DRINKING FOCUS GROUP: The East Alabama Mental Health Center at 287 North Tallassee

Friday, August 25

REUNION: All former Jaycees and Jayceettes are invited to a reunion Friday, Aug. 25 at noon at Jake’s. It will be Dutch treat.

Contact Joan Morgan at 256-2342166, Sandra Harris at 256-2124100 or Rita Barry at 1-205-9070005 for more information.

Saturday, August 26

STARGAZING: The Auburn Astronomical Society will set up telescopes to look at the night sky Aug. 26 at 6 p.m. on Hospice Point near the silo at Wind Creek State Park.

FAMILY GAME NIGHT: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have Family Game Night Bingo from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26. Begin with hot dogs, pizza, chips, and soft drinks.

Sunday, August 27

CHURCH HOMECOMING: River Road Baptist Church at 148 Dean Road is hosting a homecoming Sunday, Aug. 27 at 10 a.m. with Rebecca Futral and ‘Just One’ in concert. A love offering will be taken. A covered dish lunch will be served at noon. Margaret Thornton is music director and Dr. Albert Pike is pastor. Everyone is invited.

CHURCH HOMECOMING: Zion Hill Baptist Church is hosting homecoming services Sunday, Aug. 27 at 10 a.m.

Monday, August 28

MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION: The Alex City Area Ministerial Association is hosting a dinner for ministers and spouses August 28 at 6:30 p.m. at Marshall Street Church of God. The meal will be a choice between pork chop or chicken with two vegetables, dessert and drink. The cost is $15 per person. Please respond ASAP to Pastor Mike Waldrop at radcom2jc@gmail com or leave a message at 256-392-4950.

JOB FAIR: The will be a job fair at the Alexander City Sportplex at 1685 Riding Arena Monday, Aug. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sunday, September 3

HOMES FOR SALE/ FOR RENT

Hayes is a community columnist for The Record.

She is a resident of Dadeville and writes about the events and people of the Dadeville area.

Churches and non-profits can submit items to the calendar at editor@thedadevillerecord. com and calendar@alexcityoutlook.com.

Today’s Birthdays

Rev. Maynard Mooney, Terry Queen, Crystal Colley, William Thompson, Bennie Lee Yates, Mindy Bradford, Destiny Green and Steve Richardson are celebrating their birthdays today.

Today’s Anniversaries

Wayne and Sara Dunlap are celebrating their anniversary today.

PASTORAL ANNIVERSARY: The Mt. Zion East Baptist Church on Stillwaters Drive is celebrating the 14th pastoral anniversary of Rev. Sis. Jimmy Thomas Sunday, Sept. 3 at 2 p.m. Guest minister will be Rev. J.C. Fryer of Pine Hill Baptist Church in Phenix City.

Everyone is invited.

ANNUAL HOMECOMING EVENT: Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church will be hosting their Annual Homecoming Event Sunday, Sept.

3 at 10:30 a.m. There will be no evening services on this day.

Mountain Community Amazing Grace Minister will provide the music and lunch will be served following morning services.

Everyone is welcome to join for this special occasion of worship, music and fellowship. Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church is located in Mountain Community in Clay County.

PASTORAL APPRECIATION: St. John A.M.E. Church in Socapatoy is hosting the 22nd Pastoral Appreciation of Rev. and Sister James R. MoCoy Sunday, Sept. 3 at 2:30 p.m. Guest speaker will be Minster Kelvin Woods of St. Mary Baptist Church in Lincoln.

Submitted / The Outlook

Wednesday, September 6

GRIEFSHARE: The Trinity Campus of First United Methodist Church, next door to Russell Medical is hosting GriefShare.

GriefShare is a grief recovery support group to find help and healing for the hurt of losing a love one.

The 13 week curriculum uses videos and workbooks led by experts in the field of recovery.

It starts Sept. 6 with meetings Sept. 6, 13, 20, 27, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25, Nov. 1, 8, 15 and 29 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

To register or for more information call 256-234-2455,

Thursday, September 7

DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP: The Trinity Campus of First United Methodist Church is hosting a divorce support group Sept. 7 from 5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. to focus on helping separated and divorced individuals get through the difficulties of a broken marriage. The group will meet every Thursday

One Spot.

Hundreds of Possibilities!

256.277.4219 CLASSIFIEDS

A reunion of the Dadeville High School Class of 1952 was held at Peggy Moran’s hunting lodge near Horseshoe Bend Aug. 12. The class has held 12 class reunions since graduating 65 years ago. Fourteen members were present in 2017. Front left to right, Barbara Brasell, June C. Machen, Lila C. Denny and Hesper C. Clemms. Back row left to right, Mary Jo Brown, Peggy B. Moran, Peggy S. Harrelson, Barbara W. Marchando, Joe Hardwick, Coker Lester, Nonie M. Huddleston, Billy Lester, Billie Nell Bidenford and Belmont Nickerson. through Oct. 19.

PTSD SUPPORT GROUP: The Trinity Campus of the First United Methodist Church is hosting a post traumatic stress support group starting Sept. 7 and every Thursday through Oct. 19 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The group is for anyone who needs support in dealing with post traumatic stress.

CHURCH HOMECOMING: New Style Baptist Church is celebrating its 121st Homecoming Service Sunday, Sept. 10 at 2:30 p.m. The church is located at 294 Coosa County Road 20 in Equality. There will be fellowship and dinner after the service.

Guest minister will be Pastor Cameron Thomas of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Cropwell. Pastor Richard Ellis Taylor is minister.

Saturday, September 9

PANCAKE BREAKFAST: Comer Methodist Men’s Club is hosting a pancake breakfast Sept.

9 from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Eat in or carry out for $6 a plate.

Sunday, September 10

September 11-13

EMPOWERMENT SERVICES: New Style Baptist Church will be hosting Christian education empowerment services Sept.

11-13 at 7 p.m. night.y. Guest speaker will be Pastor Carlos Wilson of Ebenezer Missionary

O Classes & Workshops Special Events O Exciting Travel O Activities focused on Health, Wellness & Socializing O

Join the Fun...Become a Member Today! _________ CARS, TRUCKS, MOTORCYCLES & MORE

Baptist Church in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Additional guests include Malcom Cooper and the Soulful Voices of Birmingham and Nicholas Jemison.

Saturday, September 26

BLOOD DRIVE: Kingz United is hosting a blood drive Saturday, Sept. 26 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 332 East South Street in Dadeville.

Saturday, September 23

STARGAZING: The Auburn Astronomical Society will set up telescopes to look at the night sky Sept. 23 at 6 p.m. on Hospice Point near the silo at Wind Creek State Park.

City of

BARGAINS GALORE

GARAGE SALES

JOBS

PETS

Street in Dadeville is hosting an underage drinking and substance abuse focus group August 24 at 6 p.m.

Questions can be directed to 334-742-2112 or prevention@eamhc.org.

CITY WIDE REVIVAL: The Alex City Ministerial Association is hosting a city wide revival at the GAP Fellowship Church August 22-24 at 6:30 p.m. On Tuesday, Rev. Josh Sammons of Hillabee Baptist Church, Wednesday will be Bishop W.T. Traylor of Liberty Life Christian Center and Thursday Rev. Mike Jackson of Flint Hill United Methodist Church.

corner of 49 and 34, Dadeville,256-825-9820, redridgeumc.org. Visit on facebook Wellness Center News: We are so proud of all of those who have committed to healthier lifestyles for this year! We can help you reach your goals, whether it is a short term or long term goal. We have a wonderful staff who can help you with your fitness needs. Call us today for more information at 256-825-2304 or come by and visit! We are open Monday tKURXJK Friday 5 a.m. WR 8 p.m. and Saturday 7 a.m. WR noon.

Line Dancing News: Betsy Keown’s line dancing class is happening at the Dadeville Recreation Center, on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. until noon for a fee of $1 per class. For questions call Betsy at 256-825-3985.

Thought for Today: A good way to forget your troubles is to help others out of theirs!

256.329.2910 • Charles E. Bailey Sportplex • www.acpr.me

Dadeville • Wayne Smith, Mayor

Page 6

Thursday, August 24, 2017

The Dadeville Record

The Life Of A Firefighter

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A Special Thank You To All Our Sponsors!

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;We Touch the Lives of the People You Loveâ&#x20AC;?

DADEVILLE HEALTHCARE CENTER Kim Russell, Administrator 385 E. LaFayette St., Dadeville 256.825.9244

Chambers Academy 15048 US Highway 431 â&#x20AC;˘ LaFayette, Alabama â&#x20AC;˘ 334-864-9852 w w w. c h a m b e r s a c a d e m y. c o m

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Page 7

The Dadeville Record

In Community, We Share Dadeville Area Devotional Page

BALLARD TRUSS, INC. Holley’s Home Furnishings Open Mon. - Sat. 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

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www.fbcdadeville.com GARY WIGGINS SUNDAY SERVICES WEDNESDAY SERVICES Pastor • Sunday School – 9 AM • Bible Study and Prayer JAMES MYNARD Minister of Music & Education • Morning Worship – 10 AM Meeting – 6 PM • Youth – 5 PM • Evening Worship – 6 PM

CURT MIZE Minister to Students

• Mission Activities – 6 PM • Adult Choir Practice – 7 PM

200 Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL 256.825.6232

ADAM SPATES Interim Minister to Children

Get all the facts before you buy, with a certified home inspector.

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KENNETH BLAIR, Certified Home Inspector 110 Calhoun Street, Suite 202 • Alexander City, AL 256-794-5551 www.lakemartininspections.com

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150 Green Street • Alexander City • 256.234.5023 157 E. South Street • Dadeville • 256.825.4155 8:00 - 4:00 Monday - Friday James P. Temple, M.D.

By Appointment (except emergencies) Timothy J. Corbin, M.D. Phone: (256) 234-4295 Vincent Law, M.D. After Hours: (256) 329-7100

TEMPLE MEDICAL CLINIC, P.C. YOUR FAMILY CARE CENTER Medicine, Office Surgery, Pediatric and Industrial 859 Airport Drive • Alexander City, AL

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Make your reservation for Heaven

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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

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11003 County Rd. 34 Dadeville, AL

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Rocky Mt. Baptist New Site community

Mt. Zion Baptist Hwy. 63 South, Alex City 256-234-7748 New Beginnings Baptist 1076 Coley Creek Rd.

Shady Grove Baptist Jackson’s Gap Community

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

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 BAPTIST – MISSIONARY Bethlehem Baptist New Site Cross Key Baptist Hackneyville, 256-329-9716 Darian Missionary Baptist Church Pearson Chapel Rd., Alex City 256-329-3865

The Great Bethel Missionary 520 Christian St., Alex City 256-234-5513 Unity Baptist Robinson Rd., Alex City Zion Hill Missionary Baptist 583 S. Broadnax St., Dadeville BAPTIST – SOUTHERN Bay Pine Baptist 1480 Bay Pine Rd. Jackson’s Gap, 256-825-4433 Bethany Baptist Church Bethany Road Bethel Baptist Smith Mt. Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-825-5070 Beulah Baptist Smith Mt. Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-825-9882

New Hope Baptist Lake Martin, off Hwy. 63 256-329-2510 New Life Baptist Jackson’s Gap, 256-825-6190 / 256-329-2635 New Pine Grove Baptist Off Hwy. 22, Perryville New Providence Baptist Pearson Chapel Rd., Alex City New Rocky Mount Baptist 670 Peckerwood Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-794-3846 New Salem Road New Site Rd., New Site, 256-234-2932 Old Providence Baptist Off Hwy. 63 N., near Hackneyville

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

Old Union Baptist 1106 Davis Circle Jackson’s Gap 256-596-1873

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

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

Hollins Springs Baptist Hwy. 280, Goodwater

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

Perryville Baptist Perryville, 256-234-3588

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

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

Liberty Church 1034 Liberty Church Rd. Willow Point Alex City

Daviston Baptist Daviston, 395-4327

Flint Hill Baptist Hwy. 280, Dadeville Friendship Baptist Our Town Community, 256-329-5243

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

ELIZABETH HOMES LLC

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

Mt. Carmel Baptist 3610 Dudleyville Rd., Dadeville

INDEPENDENT BAPTIST Liberty Baptist 1365 Hillabee St., Alex City 256-329-8830

Early Rose Baptist 201 E Street, Alexander City

334-741-7600

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

Mountain Springs Baptist Off Hwy. 22, Daviston

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

AUTOMOTIVE

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Pleasant Home Baptist Clay County

Lebanon Baptist Mt. Carmel Rd., Dadeville, 256-234-7541

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

TALLASSEE

Alabama Foot Care Center

Pine Grove Baptist Eagle Creek Rd., Dadeville

River of Life Worship Center 407 Hillabee St., Alex City, 256-329-9593

Elam Baptist Robertson Rd. Alex City

1618 Gilmer Avenue • Tallassee, AL (334) 262-2544 www.tallasseeautomotive.com

1660 Hwy. 22 West • Alexander City

Lakeshore Discount Pharmacy

FAITH TEMPLE

A.M.E. Saint James A.M.E. Goodwater, 256-839-1007

256.896.2571

( 256 ) 234-4141

221 East South Street • Dadeville, AL almost like a cloud hanging in ne of my greatest the darkness of night. It was blessings was 17 years 256/825-0063 Locally owned. Locally operated. such a breathtaking site that my ago when I held my Locally loved. husband and I could not take our first grandchild and said “Hi, For elderly and disabled individuals needing assistance with activities of daily living. eyes away from the window. As I’m Meme.” An additional Homemaking Y Personal Care Y Companionship we laid in bed, we stared at the four others since then have brilliance. been a blessing. I was talking Acts 1:11 reads, “Why are to another grandparent, you gazing into the clouds; the discussing where our grandchildren’s college plans Jackie Wilbourn same Jesus, who was taken from Rede½ning personal care you into Heaven, will come back will lead them. It seems they Bethel Baptist LAKE MARTIN INNOVATION CENTER in the same way that you saw have a grandchild in Boston.

175 ALIANT PARKWAY • ALEXANDER CITY, AL • (256) 414-6090 Church Him go to Heaven.” Revelation The grandfather shared with 1:7 reminds us to “Look! He is me that he remembered when coming in the clouds and every eye will it was a long way from home if one see Him.” traveled from Eagle Creek to the City of Jesus uses such simple things in Dadeville. It seems that children want to the world to bring to remembrance to leave home and go to a big, exciting city. what He has taught us in His Word. Our Adults are no different. Last discussion lead to imagining Jesus week my husband and I traveled suddenly appearing in a bright cloud to Sandy Springs, Georgia, just outside SOCIAL SECURITY of glory and returning to gather His of Atlanta. The traffic was like riding bumper cars at the local fair. The buildings church. One day, we will all leave this FAYE EDMONDSON earthly home and go to the big, exciting were so tall that it made Smith Mountain Attorney at Law city. Only this time, it will be a place tower look like an ant hill.

135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL that God has prepared for us with all its Our hotel window faced the freeway 256-825-9559 No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be beauty. Make your reservation today by with dozens of tall buildings that were performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and as other lawyers. highly visible during the daylight hours. your Savior. Only God knows your time When we turned the lights out for the of departure. Be ready! night and opened the drapes, there was Jackie Wilbourn is a member such beauty. The office lights of the Sunday School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:30 AM AM AM Sunday Morning Service . . . . . . . . . . 10:30 AM of Bethel Baptist Church, a Chaplin building were turned off for the night but Wednesday Bible Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:00 PM PM one of the buildings had a huge dome-like with Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief Rev. Dick Stark, Pastor Team and a regular faith columnist for architecture that was arrayed in a bright, Mr. J.D. Stark, Youth Pastor The Record. beautiful, blue color against a black sky, 256.234.6421 • www.faithtemple.us

Church Directory

21837 Hwy. 280 | Camp Hill, AL

Closed All Day Wed. & Sun.

New Bethel Baptist Rock St., Dadeville, 256-825-7726 Peace & Goodwill Baptist Cottage Grove Community Alexander City, 256-377-4634

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

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

Dadeville Church of Christ East LaFayette St., Dadeville Meadows St. Church of Christ 306 Meadows St., Alex City Pleasant Grove Church of Christ 1819 Bay Pine Rd, Jackson’s Gap Southview Church of Christ 2325 Dadeville Rd., Alex City 256-329-0212 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 Dadeville Church of God 425 Horseshoe Bend Rd. (Hwy. 49 N.) Dadeville 256-825-8820 Marshall Street Church of God 428 Marshall Street, Alex City 256-234-3180 New Faith Tabernacle A.C.O.P. Church of God “J” Street New Harvest Ministries Church of God Hwy 280 & Coosa 28 256-329-2331

Comer Memorial U.M. 427 East Church St., 256-329-3467

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 Kellyton U.M., Kellyton, 256-329-1681 Liberty United Methodist Liberty Rd., Hackneyville Mt. Godfrey New Site New Site U.M. New Site, 256-234-7834

EPISCOPAL Saint James Episcopal Church 121 South Central Ave., Alex City 256-234-4752

Union United Methodist 4428 Hwy. 50, Dadeville 256-825-2241 METHODIST – INDEPENDENT Daviston Independent Methodist Daviston, 395-4207

PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian 371 Jefferson St., Alex City 256-329-0524 First Presbyterian Okefuske, Dadeville, 256-825-4081 Robinson Memorial Presbyterian Robinson Rd., Alex City

HOLINESS Alex City Emmanuel Holiness Hillabee St., Alex City

UNITED PENTECOSTAL Alex City Apostolic 3708 Robinson Rd., Alexander City, 256-329-1573 INDEPENDENT Faith Temple Franklin Street, Alex City, 256-234-6421

Sandy Creek Baptist Alex City

Good News Baptist Church 10493 Hwy. 280, Jackson’s Gap 256-825-2555

Sixth Street Baptist Sixth St., Alex City, 256-234-2408

FULL GOSPEL Dadeville Foursquare Gospel Church Old 280 By-pass

Family Worship Center 1676 Sewell Street 256-839-6895

Hackneyville Baptist Hwy. 63 N., Hackneyville

Sunny Level Baptist Church Sunny Acres Subdivision Sewell Street

Fellowship Revival Center Mission 316 6th Ave., Alex City 256-329-1510 weekends

First Congregational Christian 11th Ave. South, Alex City

Town Creek Baptist Camp Ground Rd., Alex City

Kellyton Revival Center Co. Road 87 South Kellyton

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

Liberty Life Christian Center 321 “S” Street, Alex City

Zion Hill Baptist Hwy. 79, near Horseshoe Bend

Passion Church 3340 Hwy. 63 N., Alex City 256-409-9590

CATHOLIC St. John the Apostle 454 N. Central Ave., Alex City 256-234-3631

The Family Worship Center 365 Scott Road, Alex City

CHURCH OF CHRIST Alex City Church of Christ 945 Tallapoosa St., Alex City 256-234-6494

METHODIST – UNITED Alexander City Methodist 11th Ave. N., Alex City 256-329-1284 Bradford Methodist Hwy. 9, Goodwater

O P E N 2 4 H O U R S

GAP Fellowship Ministries P.O. Box 1571, Alex City Jehovah-Jireh Ministries 252 Tallapoosa St., Alex City 256-215-4211 Leap of Faith Outreach Ministry 886 Terrance Drive, 256-234-7119

574 S. Central Ave Ave. Alexander City, AL (256) 329-9762

Save money. Live better.

Hwy. 280 | Alexander City, AL

256.234.0316

GIFTS & MORE

Monogramming, onogramming, Boutique outique CClothing, lothing, Jewelry, ewelry, Bathing athing SSuits uits &M More ore

256-496-4017

10147 County Road 34 Dadeville, AL

PRECIOUS MEMORIES

JACKSON REFRIGERATION CO., INC.

HEATING & COOLING Our Name is Our Reputation and “Your Comfort is Our Priority!”

PENTECOSTAL Pentecostals of Dadeville 115 West Columbus Street Dadeville, 256-596-3411

First Baptist Tallassee St., Dadeville, 256-825-6232

Wayside Baptist 21 Wayside Circle, Alex City 256-234-5564

WHIRLPOOL • KITCHEN AID • AMANA MAYTAG • HOLLAND GRILLS DCS • FISHER PAYKEL

Trinity United Methodist 280 By-pass, Alex City, 256-234-2455

House of Restoration Holiness 519 Slaughter Ave., Camp Hill, 256-749-2373, 256-896-2904

Hillabee Baptist Hillabee Rd., Alex City 256-234-6798 Horseshoe Bend Baptist Hwy. 280, Dadeville

• A L L i c . # 7139

Tapley Appliance Center

Pearson Chapel U.M. Pearson Chapel Rd., Alex City

Sunnylevel United Methodist 3202 Hwy. 63N, Alex City 256-234-6877

CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE Dadeville Church of the Nazarene Corner Hwy. 280 and 49, 256-825-8191

Bernie Atkinson

Flint Hill U.M., Alex City 256-234-5047 Goodwater U.M. Main St., Goodwater, 256-839-6661

•

(256) 329-2539

First United Methodist Dadeville, 256-825-4404

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

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

•

A1 LOCK & KEY 3211 Pearson Chapel Road • Alexander City, AL

First United Methodist 310 Green St., Alex City 256-234-6322

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

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

•

Auto Residential Business 24-Hr. Emergency Service Licensed & Bonded

Duncan Memorial U.M. 3997 Hillabee Rd., Alex City 256-234-6708

Red Ridge United Methodist 8091 County Road 34, Dadeville 256-825-9820

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

425 Franklin Street, Alexander City, AL

256/234-4457 or 256/496-3850 Lake Martin Garage e F re Towing, Tires & MOUNTT & Muffler T BALA NCE

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11133 Hwy. 280 • Jackson’s son’s Gap, AL

In Need Of

Volunteers & Donations The New Community Center Providing Emergency Shelter, Counseling & Job Placement.

VOLUNTEER Please Contact Lonnie • 256-794-1519

New Bethel Fellowship Church 5474 Rock Springs Road Jackson’s Gap 256-825-3367 The Baha’I Faith 740 Newell Street, Camp Hill 256-896-4007 The Word Bible Church 161 Main St., Alex City, 256-215-5646

MAGGIN EDWARDS, MANAGER 5639 Elmore Road Elmore, AL 334-567-0446 15048 US Highway 431 • LaFayette, Alabama • 334-864-9852 Toll Free 1-800-246-0220 w w w. c h a m b e r s a c a d e m y. c o m

Chambers Academy

DARK INSURANCE AGENCY 410 Hillabee St. Alexander City, AL darkinsuranceagency.com/contact

Page

Sports

8

Lizi Arbogast, Sports Editor (256) 234-4281 x228 sports@alexcityoutlook.com

Record The

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Reeltown kicks off season today get your water tested so you can see what you’re made of, and Notasulga is going to do that.”

Reeltown had the best of the After all the hype and Blue Devils for eight straight anticipation, the 2017 football years, dominating the series season officially kicks off tonight as the Reeltown Rebels from 2006 to 2013, but when head to Notasulga’s Blue Devils Notasulga reinvigorated its rivalry with Reeltown last year, Stadium for the first game of it was the Blue Devils who the season. were a force to be reckoned With two back-to-back with.

Thursday night rivalry games, “We gotta be clicking on Reeltown certainly doesn’t have all cylinders to be successful an easy start to the season. against them, otherwise it could “With Notasulga and get out of hand one way or the Dadeville, those are two big other if one team’s not ready rivalries and two really good because both teams are very teams,” Reeltown coach Matt Johnson said. “With the region competitive,” Matt Johnson said. that we’re in, that’s exactly After Reeltown wraps what you need. You need to up, Dadeville and Central come right out of the gate and

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

Coosa both hit the gridiron on Friday night. Dadeville hosts LaFayette, which should be an even bigger test for the Tigers than Notasulga is for Reeltown.

Despite being two classes lower than Dadeville, LaFayette defeated the Tigers, 44-29, last season and went on to finish an undefeated regular season. The Bulldogs advanced to the third round of the postseason before being bounced by Fyffe.

With several questions still lingering for the Tigers, Friday night’s match should present some answers.

“I’ve got so many new faces in there, and they’ve never been in the fire of a ball game,” Dadeville coach Richard White said. “It’s gonna be interesting

Low roster numbers are a symptom of society

E

veryone has a different theory for why football teams’ roster numbers are getting lower and lower by the year.

Most of the time I hear about concussion threats and potential for injury. But let’s be honest – the sport of football is the safest it’s been in a long time. Not only are there rules within the game to protect players from injuries, including not being able to hit a defenseless receiver and no targeting allowed, there are also standards by which high school teams must follow when it comes to practice.

Two-a-days are a thing of the past. Even having three full weeks of full-contact practice isn’t allowed anymore. Teams aren’t even allowed to go full contact two days in a row under new AHSAA rules.

Plus, helmet upgrades and concussions regulations are through the roof. Every player must pass a concussion standard test prior to the season, and if there is a threat of a concussion, one must re-pass said test before he can rejoin the team.

Moreover, safety has always been a concern in football, but that didn’t stop people from playing before.

A lot of people also make the argument toward specialization.

More student-athletes are dedicating their time to a single sport rather than branching out to multiple teams. Several studies have been done that show specialization actually harms a student-athlete — it’s easier to get burned out on a single sport and injuries become more common.

But I don’t buy specialization as a reason for low roster numbers for a couple reasons.

For one, you don’t see these drastically low roster numbers across other sports. Every single football team in the Record’s coverage area has its lowest numbers in memory. While some teams may be small, they aren’t hurting like football seems to be.

Secondly, it’s often you hear about a football player

LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

specializing. Although football has become a year-round sport, they are often playing basketball or wrestling in the winter and taking advantage of baseball or track and field in the spring. With football, it’s almost harder to specialize because even though there are weight lifting programs and summer workouts, there aren’t travel ball and club teams.

What it comes down to is football is one of the toughest sports out there. It’s tough mentally, physically and emotionally. It’s a big time commitment and requires a dedication to hard work and teamwork. Not everyone is cut out to play football.

Especially in Alabama, where even in what I’ve been told has been a mild summer, the heat and humidity are consistently bearing down. It can’t be easy.

It’s so much easier for kids to sit in the air conditioning and play Madden on their flat-screen TVs than it is for them to actually get outside, don the full pads and tackle on another on the reallife gridiron. And with the way society is today, the easy way out is becoming more and more appealing every day.

It’s almost a catch-22, too. With lower roster numbers, there’s more potential for injury and greater chance of success. With more injuries and more losses, fewer players want to come out.

While the feeling around the area teams is still positive, I truly worry how some of these teams will make it through the season.

If something doesn’t change in our society and parents don’t start encouraging their kids to become more active, football could continue on a downward slide.

Lizi Arbogast is the sports editor of The Record.

File / The Outlook

Reeltown’s Leo Lewis (54) takes down a Notasulga player last season.

to watch these guys mature and grow up a little bit. I hope they can because if they don’t, we’re in serious trouble. We don’t

have a lot of depth.”

Central Coosa hosts Catholic Montgomery in its first game of the season.

Tolbert is living out his dreams

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

A lot of young football players across the state of Alabama grow up hoping to play for Auburn University one day.

But not a lot of people actually get the opportunity.

After two years at Harding University and a year off due to transfer rules, Dadeville graduate C.J. Tolbert is quite literally getting the chance to live out his dream. Tolbert is currently playing for the Tigers and is competing for the third running back spot.

“I grew up an Auburn fan, so it’s really special,” Tolbert said. “My senior year in high school, I came to every home game. I was here for the Georgia game and the Kick Six game.

It was special then, just being a fan, so now knowing that I’m playing for the same team I grew up watching, it’s really special.”

After graduating from Dadeville in 2014, Tolbert played for Harding University, a Division II program in Texas, but he has since returned to his home state.

“He was a long way from home,” Dadeville coach Richard White said. “These Dadeville kids, they love Dadeville. (Harding) also ran the wishbone, and C.J. wasn’t a wishbone player.

He was a spread offense running back and quarterback, so he decided he wanted to get back closer to home.”

When Tolbert tried out for Auburn, he came with a high recommendation from White.

Although he was ineligible for a year due to Division I transfer rules, Tolbert used the experience as a positive.

“For me, it was a good thing,” Tolbert said.

“I knew when I transferred I had to sit out, but I was coming to a big school with better players and learning a whole different offense. It was a good time for me to sit out and watch how everything was run instead of being thrown into the fire.”

Tolbert had an incredible career at Dadeville.

During his senior year, he had 1,115 passing yards and 16 touchdowns and topped that on the ground with 1,543 rushing yards and 27 touchdowns. He was a Class 4A finalist for Alabama’s Mr. Football.

“One of the coaches called me and asked what this Tolbert kid was about,” White said.

“I said, ‘Well, let me put it to you this way.

He’s 5-7, about 190 or 195 pounds, and it’s like tackling a dang bowling ball. Y’all need to give him a shot.’ He’s done well and he has a chance to play this year.”

Tolbert is in competition with Kam Martin and Malik Miller for the third tailback position.

“I just go out there every day, compete with them and do the best I can,” Tolbert said.

“Hopefully I can fit in there in that third spot or even special teams, wherever they need me. I

Submitted / Auburn Athletics

Dadeville graduate C.J. Tolbert runs the football on ADay in 2016. Tolbert is competing for the third tailback position for Auburn University this season.

just focus on myself and not really worry about the competition. I run every route the best I can, make every read to the best of my ability, so I’m not really focusing on the competition at hand.”

Tolbert said he might have a leg up on the competition, though, because of his time spent at Dadeville. The offensive coordinator during Tolbert’s high school years studied the Auburn playbook, so the two Tiger teams ran a lot of the same schemes. Also because he played quarterback at Dadeville, he learned the offense really well.

The journey has been a long one for Tolbert, but he’s always stuck with it and he knows others in his shoes have the same capability.

“I’d definitely say the sky is the limit,” Tolbert said. “You don’t want to shoot people’s dreams down, but realistically speaking, you need to be determined and dedicated. It’s not an easy task, it’s not just Saturdays on ESPN, throwing touchdowns and making top-10 plays.

It’s a whole year of dedication to play just 12 or 13 Saturdays.”

Although Tolbert said it’d be nice to play in the NFL one day, he’s gained a strong relationship with Auburn’s strength and conditioning coach, Ryan Russell, and could see himself following in Russell’s footsteps.

Weekend Football Forecast

Lizi Arbogast Mitch Sneed Cliff Williams Scott Hardy Tippy Hunter Luke Robinson Andy Graham Brett Pritchard Randy Lee Sports Editor

Editor

Stella

Staff Writer

Marketing Coordinator

Advertising Director

Columnist

Columnist

Sports Blitz

Sports Blitz

Pet Pick of the Week

Reeltown @ Notasulga

Reeltown

Reeltown

Reeltown

Reeltown

Reeltown

Reeltown

Notasulga

Reeltown

Reeltown

Reeltown

LaFayette @ Dadeville Cath. Montg. @ Cent. Coosa

LaFayette

LaFayette

LaFayette

LaFayette

LaFayette

Dadeville

LaFayette

Dadeville

Dadeville

LaFayette

Cath.

Montgomery

Central Coosa

Central Coosa

Cath.

Cath.

Cath.

Montgomery Montgomery Montgomery

Cath.

Cath.

Cath.

Cath.

Montgomery Montgomery Montgomery Montgomery

Thursday, August 24, 2017

The Dadeville Record

Page 9

Page 10

The Dadeville Record

Thursday, August 24, 2017

Thursday, August 24, 2017

The Dadeville Record

Kiwanis

continued from page 1

Career Technical Center, working with some of the Health Sciences students there in taking care of the baby dolls they use for training to benefit the March of Dimes.

Following her presentation to the Kiwanis Club, several Kiwanians asked Presley questions regarding possible service project ideas. One member asked if the Key Club would be interested in helping out if the Chamber of Commerce hosted an Easter egg hunt in the spring and at the Fall Festival, which replaced the summer Lakefest event.

Presley answered yes, and also said she and a few others might be at the Ducky Ward

Russell

Medical

Soap Box Derby Saturday.

Others had comments for the high schoolers in attendance, such as letting the senior Key Club members know they were working to try and streamline the application process for scholarships provided through the Kiwanis Club.

In conclusion, Presley reiterated how she wanted to see the Key Club at Dadeville High School filled with members ready to go out and be of great service to their community, no matter who they may be. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be the perfect student to be in Key Club,â&#x20AC;? she said.

Arrest safety.

Martin said law enforcement first contacted Burns on West Lafayette Street after a call around 4:40 p.m. Saturday and ultimately set up a perimeter in the Green Acres subdivision Saturday evening where Burns was moving from backyard to backyard.

Burns was arrested and said he threw the gun in the woods and said he would lead law enforcement back to the gun. In speaking with Burns, law

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Page 11

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enforcement discovered the gun was hidden in a home occupied by children. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The homeowner consented to a search,â&#x20AC;? Martin said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We found the weapon and charged Burns with certain persons forbidden to possess a pistol.â&#x20AC;?

Martin said in addition to Dadeville Police Department, the Jacksons Gap and Camp Hill police departments and the Tallapoosa County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department helped with the incident that concluded around 7 p.m. Saturday.

Page 12

Thursday, August 24, 2017

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

On the cover This year’s football preview is all about building tradition.

Pictured are Central Coosa’s Toney Davis, Reeltown’s Trey O’Neal, Dadeville’s Ab Abernathy, Horseshoe Bend’s Cade Worthy and Benjamin Russell’s Benjamin Hendrix at the old Russell Mills complex.

4 8

BENJAMIN RUSSELL WILDCATS

DADEVILLE TIGERS

CHAIRMAN KENNETH S. BOONE PUBLISHER STEVE BAKER EDITORIAL MITCH SNEED, EDITOR LIZI ARBOGAST, SPORTS EDITOR CLIFF WILLIAMS SANTANA WOOD DONALD CAMPBELL

REELTOWN REBELS

AREA TEAM SCHEDUULES INSIDE

CIRCULATION DAVID KENDRICK LINDA EWING

COMPOSING AUDRA SPEARS DARLENE JOHNSON HALLIE HOLLOWAY

REBECCA CARLISLE SCOTT HARDY - DIGITAL LEAD PRESSMAN LEE CHAMPION

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010 (256) 234-4281 www.alexcityoutlook.com

20 TPI’S FANTASY FOOTBALL TEAM

14

ACCOUNTING ANGELA MULLINS

TABBY EDWARDS

CENTRAL COOSA

ALSO INSIDE

CARMEN RODGERS

ADVERTISING TIPPY HUNTER DOUG PATTERSON EMILY GREGG

GENERALS

COUGARS

Gridiron Guide is an annual publication of The Alexander City Outlook and the Dadeville Record. It is designed to highlight the local prep football teams in the Lake Martin Region. We hope you enjoy this year’s edition.

STAFF

HORSESHOE BEND

12

16 18

4

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 24, 2017

BENJAMIN RUSSELL WILDCATS

File / The Outlook

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Left: Benjamin Russell celebrates a touchdown last season. The Wildcats have high hopes for the upcoming year. Right: Benjamin Russell’s A.J. Thompson, left, reaches out to catch a Shades Valley player during a 7-on-7 game this summer.

Wildcat defense is on the prowl

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

After a disappointing defensive season last year, during which Benjamin Russell allowed its most points in football history, Danny Horn knew things had to change and fast.

Heading into the 2017 season, Horn is listing his defense, especially the front seven, as one of his team’s biggest strengths — at least on paper.

“We’ll be better defensively, there’s no doubt about it,” Horn said. “We’re better at every position on defense.”

At nose tackle, Cam Bucker (6-foot-0, 308 pounds) and Curtis “Pokey” Norris (5-11, 275) will anchor the inside of the line. On the outside, Kashari Ross (6-2, 212) will play defensive end, and he will joined

by Marquel Jackson (6-0, 216), who has moved from linebacker to end.

Behind the line will be the linebacking corps of senior leader Ben Hendrix (5-10, 184) and up-andcoming sophomore Brett Pitts (5-9, 170). “(Brett) is just a 10th grader, but he’s one of the better athletes on the whole team,” Horn said. “He can make some plays. He’s not that big, but he’s smart and he’s one that’ll be in the right spot at the right time.”

At outside linebacker will be Jaden Tuck (6-4, 191) and Trey Gray (5-10, 186).

“With our front seven on defense, we got good speed and good size, so I think that would probably

be a big strength,” Horn said. “(They’re) like the quarterback position on offense — if the defensive line doesn’t play well, you usually are not going to stop many folks. We have a little depth there, and I feel pretty good about the linebacker position.”

The secondary does leave something to be desired.

The Wildcats are replacing three out of four starters in the backend. Zae Stowes will likely play strong safety, while A.J. Thompson will be on the strong side. Kobi Crabb has moved from split end to corner, and Jimmiel Harrison and D.J. Hunter will swap in and out of the other cornerback spot.

Offensively, there’s a gaping hole the size of NeColby Maxwell that must be filled. Although Benjamin Russell likely won’t have a standout running back like Maxwell was, Horn feels good about the depth they have at that position.

Davede Herron, who was actually the team’s top receiver last year with 298 yards on 22 receptions, will lead the running back group.

“He’s probably the No. 1 back,” Horn said. “He’ll be playing a wing some and sometimes he’ll be what we’re calling a fullback, so he’s got to learn both positions, but he’s a workhorse. We have some depth there. They all run about the same speed, so you can just kinda put them in and out without much difference.”

Other top running backs will be seniors Thompson, Kiki Harvey and Kraige Abercrumbie and sophomores Hezekiah Hunter and Keedon Young.

Once again at quarterback will be junior Landon Cotney, who was 73-for-152 and threw for 926 yards

and five touchdowns. He did struggle with some accuracy issues, finishing the season with seven interceptions, but Horn said most of that has been cleaned up.

“He’s gotten better; I can tell the difference in practice between this year and last year,” Horn said. “He’s got a bit more confidence and a little bit more experience. I think he’ll take care of the ball better than he did last year. He’s done a good job learning this offense and executing it. He’s looking pretty good.”

Like many teams in the area, Benjamin Russell will be up against a tough schedule — in fact, one of the toughest in the state, depending on how you look at it.

The Wildcats’ opponents had a combined record of 80-37 last season, which is the highest winning percentage for opponents in the entire state. In addition to getting through a difficult Class 6A Region 3, BRHS’ non-region opponents include Class 5A state champion Beauregard as well as Oxford, Clay County Central and Minor, all of whom advanced to the playoffs and had a combined record of 30-5.

Although Horn hasn’t necessarily set an ultimate goal for the season, he has developed a recipe which he thinks will lead to success.

“We got to be able to run the ball, we got to be able to stop the run and we have to win the turnover battle,” Horn said. “That’s the three biggest things we’ve got to do. If we do those three things, then we have a chance to win every game. If we don’t do those three things, we’re probably not going to win. This team is gonna give good effort, there’s no doubt in my mind about that.”

AUGUST 24, 2017

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

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BENJAMIN RUSSELL WILDCATS at a glance Coach: Danny Horn, ninth season, 55-39 (.585) Last year: 3-8, 3-3 Class 6A Region 3; lost to Hillcrest Tuscaloosa, 40-16, in first round of the playoffs.

Offense: Hybrid, shotgun wing-T Defense: 3-4 Top returning starters: Jackson Knight (sr., OL); Jared Greene (sr., OL); Landon Cotney (jr., QB); Davede Herron (sr., RB); Tyler

Watts (sr., TE); Ben Hendrix (sr., ILB); Jaden Tuck (sr., OLB); Cam Buckner (sr., DL); Trey Gray (sr., OLB); A.J. Thompson (sr., DB) First game: Friday, Sept. 1, at home vs. Central Clay County, 7 p.m.

Ticket cost: $7 Stadium name: Charles E. Bailey Sportplex Stadium location: 1685 Arena Rd.

File / The Outlook

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Left: Benjamin Hendrix will be the anchor of Benjamin Russell’s defense, which is expected to be much better than last year. Right: Benjamin Russell’s Davede Herron could prove to be a big playmaker for the Wildcats this season.

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

6

Wildcats prepare for a strong season ahead File / The Outlook

Above: Landon Cotney (14) will once again be the starting quarterback for Benjamin Russell, and coach Danny Horn said he is much improved from last season. Right: Benjamin Russellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Deshaun Gonzalez takes down a Helena player during last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s action. Defense should be a strength for the Wildcats this season.

WE ARE

GO WILDCATS! Benjamin Russell High School 225 Heard Blvd, Alexander City 256-234-8611 www.alexcityschools.net

AUGUST 24, 2017

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 24, 2017

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BENJAMIN RUSSELL WILDCATS ROSTER No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 30 33 34 37 38 41 42

Name Quan Brown Zae Stowes Tikeathon Harvey Jimmiel Harrison A.J. Thompson Landon Cotney Ethan Edwards Trey Gray Jaden Tuck Colby Riddle Jai Young Carter Smith D.J. Hunter Tyler Watts Chris Lawson Jackson Turner Davede Herron Kobi Crabb Markyhaun McNeal Keedon Young Jaikobee Gamble Hezekiah Hunter Ryan Willis Denzel Greene Ty Brown Isaiah Holloway Peyton Young Mark Wilkerson Shane Hanson Timothy Waldrop Desahun Gonzalez Brett Pitts Carl Russell

Position SE DB RB DB DB QB DB OLB OLB QB SE QB DB TE SE SE RB DB RB RB DL RB SE DB OLB ILB DB OLB OLB ILB OLB ILB ILB

Grade Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. Fr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. So. Jr. So. So. Sr. So. So. So. Jr. So. So. So.

Ht. 6-0 5-11 5-6 5-9 6-2 5-11 6-0 5-10 6-4 6-0 6-1 5-6 5-10 5-11 5-11 5-11 5-9 6-1 5-8 5-6 6-3 5-5 6-0 5-7 6-1 5-8 5-8 5-8 5-11 5-9 6-3 5-9 5-5

Wt. 166 174 201 144 182 163 177 186 191 150 148 148 153 198 149 149 192 147 173 151 203 165 169 143 174 183 128 168 154 156 179 170 172

No. 43 44 45 47 49 50 51 53 53 55 56 57 61 63 65 66 67 68 70 71 72 73 74 75 77 78 80 81 82 83 85 88 91

Name Ben Hendrix Stephen Williams Qualando Daniel Kraige Abercrumbie Dwyght Abercrumbie Marquel Jackson Jared Greene Cam Buckner Conner Burke Kashari Ross Jackson Knight Darius Ross Brandon Sherum Colby Ford Dillon Lashley Landon Turner Joe Young Ryan Green Colby Smith Damion Lowery Curtis Norris Jarzayus Tuck Ahmad Williams Braxton Haas Noah Benton Chason Channell Lucan Yates Kamaure Marable Reece Kelley Lane Rigby Nick McGhee Dylan Moncus Zykeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ce Smith

Position ILB DL ILB RB LB DL OL DL OL DL OL OLB OL DL OL OL OL OL DL OL DL OL OL OL OL OL K SE SE OLB SE K DL

Grade Sr. So. So. Sr. So. Jr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. So. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. So. Fr. So. Jr. Jr. So. So. Sr. So. So. So. So. Jr. Sr. Jr.

Ht. 5-10 6-2 5-10 5-8 5-6 6-0 6-6 6-0 5-11 6-2 6-0 5-10 5-10 6-2 5-10 5-6 5-11 6-0 6-0 6-3 5-11 5-10 6-0 5-8 6-4 6-6 5-9 6-0 5-8 6-1 6-1 5-8 6-3

Wt. 184 200 200 178 162 216 212 308 185 212 239 199 210 190 205 203 242 242 250 239 275 278 290 217 328 254 133 161 112 172 159 155 252

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

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AUGUST 24, 2017

DADEVILLE TIGERS

File / The Outlook

Dadeville’s Tykeem Holley stretches out during a game last season. Holley will be one of the running backs that will hopefully fill the shoes of Margarius Buchanan.

Positions up for grabs this year at Dadeville

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

With just over a week before the season kickoff game against LaFayette, Dadeville coach Richard White was still making changes.

“I’m just trying to find that magic recipe,” he said. “It’s never going to happen perfectly, but we’re changing some things up to get some different looks.

We’re trying to make a kid fit to where he’s comfortable and where he can play.”

As late as last week, even the position of quarterback was still up for grabs for the Tigers. Throughout the summer, senior Jeff Rice (5-foot-9, 170 pounds) and Slade McCullers (6-0, 235) were still battling it out. Having different skill sets with one being a stronger passer and one being better on the ground has made the decision difficult for White, but don’t be surprised to see both of them out there at times.

“At times, we could be (a two-quarterback system) depending on what we need to do,” White said. “No matter who the starter or backup is, you still gotta get the other guy enough reps to where if something happens to the guy starting, he can go in and get the job done.”

In replacing Margarius Buchanan, the Tigers originally thought they might put senior Qua Tucker at

quarterback, but White didn’t want to get into a situation where they were once again counting too much on one player. Tucker, who is a Dadeville track star, will play in multiple positions in the offense this season, but will mostly serve as the top running back.

“We just gotta get the ball to him in open space and let him use his legs,” White said. “We’ll formation him a lot, depending on what we’re trying to do, to try to get him in some space and get the ball to him. Or sometimes we can use him as a decoy. He’s an athlete, though. He can run.”

Supplementing Tucker will be a strong core of skill players. Seniors Kadore Glenn and Tykeem Holley will also be top running backs, and Jalen Sullivan will play both running back and wide receiver.

“They’re playmakers; we just gotta get the ball to them,” White said. “The main thing right now is our offensive line gelling and being a consistent unit up front, not having blown assignments and missing blocks.”

Ab Abernathy and Brennon Wright are the only returners on the offensive line.

Defensively, McCullers and Jerry Pulliam will be top defensive ends. And White said the secondary should be strong, but there are still some question marks, especially at the linebacker position.

“Secondary-wise, we’re pretty talented at the back

end of our defense with a lot of skill guys that can run and play,” White said. “Linebackers, I’ve moved them around so they’re playing different positions so we can kinda see in a game-situation how they respond.”

With so many newcomers on the team, White does have high expectations for some of his youngsters.

Sophomores Cooper Childers and Alex Walker are battling for a starting outside linebacker position, and junior Conner Fuller has locked up a spot at strong safety.

Even if Dadeville answers all its questions before Friday’s game, the Tigers are still going to have a long road ahead of them. Dadeville plays in one of the toughest regions across Class 4A. It’ll face the likes of defending state champion Handley as well as Leeds, who won the state in 2015 and 2014. Region opponents also include Tallassee and Munford, both of which were in the top 20 in the Alabama Sports Writers Association preseason poll.

Last season, the Tigers missed the playoffs for the first time since 2007.

“I’m not going to use that as motivation, but I am trying to go back and look where we stumped our toe, so to speak,” White said. “I’m trying to figure out what we did wrong and how we can correct it to try to get us back in the playoffs somehow, someway.”

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 24, 2017

9

DADEVILLE TIGERS ROSTER No.

Name

Position

Grade

Ht.

Wt.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 20 23 25 27 28 30 32 35 36 40 51 52 53 54 55 58 59 64 68 70 73 77 84

Jeff Rice Tykeem Holley Kadore Glenn Cooper Childers Qua Tucker Jalen Sullivan Joshua Taylor Cameron Tai Ty Bell Corbin Holston Zander McClendon Morgan Davis C.W. Spraggins Jerry Pulliam Alex Walker Slade McCullers Payton Eaton Kendrick Sands Jamauri Chislom John Stroud Conner Fuller Josh Talton Josh Green A.J. Williams Kade Harkins Alex Sims Ab Abernathy Preston McAdory Dillan Ray Omar Taylor Max McClendon D.J. Foster Seth Meadors Dillon Burns Andrew Spraggins Brennon Wright Kendrick Coleman Luke Keel Logan Ray

QB/FS RB/LB RB/LB QB/DB RB/DB RB/DB RB/DB RB/DB WR/P WR/DB WR/DB TE/DB WR/DB TE/DE QB/DB TE/DL RB/LB QB/DB RB/DB K/P WR/DB WR/DB RB/LB WR/DB WR/DB K/P OL/DL OL/LB OL/DE OL/DE OL/DE OL/DE OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL WR/LB

Sr. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. So. Sr. Jr. Sr. Fr. Sr. So. Jr. Jr. Fr. So. Jr. Jr. So. Jr. Jr. So. So. Sr. Fr. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. Sr. Fr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Fr.

5-9 5-10 5-10 5-9 6-1 5-10 5-6 5-9 5-10 5-11 5-10 6-1 5-7 6-1 5-10 6-0 5-9 5-10 6-1 5-8 5-9 5-7 5-9 5-5 5-8 5-10 5-10 5-8 6-0 6-1 6-0 6-0 6-1 5-10 5-9 5-9 5-8 5-10 5-7

170 185 185 145 185 165 140 160 145 165 150 175 140 180 160 235 160 145 190 160 165 140 170 130 140 165 235 225 210 215 215 210 285 275 180 240 185 265 155

DADEVILLE TIGERS at a glance Coach: Richard White, 18th season, 128-69 (.649) Last year: 5-5, 3-4 Class 4A Region 3 Offense: Pistol Defense: 3-4 multiple Top returning starters: Qua Tucker (sr., RB/WR); Ab Abernathy (sr., OL); Jalen Sullivan (sr., RB/WR/DB); Kadore Glenn (sr., RB/LB); Tykeem Holley (sr.,

RB/LB); Brennon Wright (sr., OL); Morgan Davis (sr., TE/S); Slade McCullers (jr., QB/DE) First game: Friday, at home vs.

LaFayette, 7 p.m.

Ticket cost: $7 Stadium name: Tiger Stadium Stadium location: 227 Weldon St., Dadeville; down the hill and across the street from Dadeville High School

Children First... everyday!

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

Joseph C. Windle, Superintendent

(256) 825-0746

679 E. Columbus Street | Dadeville, AL 36853

Kadore Glenn is expected to be a top running back for Dadeville this season.

File / The Outlook

10

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

Dadeville coach Richard White teaches a lesson during the first day of football practice.

AUGUST 24, 2017

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

File / The Outlook

Qua Tucker is expected to be a big playmaker for Dadeville this season.

Dadeville Tigers ready for 2017 season File / The Outlook

Left: Dadevilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ab Abernathy (51) is one of just two returning starters on the offensive line.

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

SPORTS EXTRA

AUGUST 24, 2017

11

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

CENTRAL ALABAMA’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL COVERAGE

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14

AUGUST 24, 2017

Tallapoosa Publishers’

2017

FANTASY FOOTBALL TEAM With NFL fantasy football drafts right around the corner, it seems fitting to take it to next level.

This year, we’re taking a new perspective on our preseason all-star team, and we’ve built the ultimate Outlook fantasy football squad.

Take a look at the top players to watch in the area this season, fantasy-football style.

Running backs

Quarterback Cade Worthy, Horseshoe Bend Standing at 5-foot-8 and 140 pounds, Worthy proves that big things come in small packages. Worthy was the Generals’ starter last season and had a strong completion percentage of 67.0 percent. He threw for 69 completions on 103 attempts, had 993 passing yards and seven touchdowns. Under first-year head coach Josh Averett, Worthy is expected to pass the ball even more this season.

Trace Meadows, Horseshoe Bend

After working under the guidance of 1,500yard rusher Drew Hill a year ago, Meadows is primed to have a breakout season during his senior campaign. In 2016, Meadows’ biggest attribute was his ability to run the ball.

Although he had just 40 carries, he averaged 12.0 yards per carry for a total of 478 yards.

He hit the 100-yard rushing mark in three games and scored seven touchdowns. He’ll be the star of the Generals’ offense this season.

Makevon Hughley, Reeltown

With so many skill players ready to get to work for Reeltown this year, it’s hard to pinpoint just one to watch, but Hughley should be one of the top running backs for the Rebels this year. Like Worthy, he’s a smaller guy, measuring in at just 5-foot-7 and 150 pounds, but he should be a top threat for Reeltown.

Wide receivers Qua Tucker, Dadeville

Tight end

Tyler Watts, Benjamin Russell On a team that’s been yearning for some leadership, Watts may be one of the guys Benjamin Russell is looking for. Coach Danny Horn is hoping for players who lead by example, and Watts is definitely one of those players. With an improved Landon Cotney at quarterback, Watts should see even more action than a year ago.

Last season, Watts had six receptions for 123 yards and two touchdowns, which tied for the most among receivers.

Expect to see Tucker flying all over the field this season for the Tigers.

He’ll play not only at wide receiver but also at running back, and fans will see him rack up some yards. Tucker is a star track athlete for Dadeville and can certainly use his speed to his advantage if he finds open space.

He stands at 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds.

Eric Shaw, Reeltown Shaw can certainly use his 6-foot-4 frame to his advantage to get up and over some of the best cornerbacks in the area.

Working with new quarterback Khoner Davis may prove challenging early on, but Shaw’s size and speed will be a big contributing factor to Reeltown’s success. Like Hughley, he’ll have a corps of athletes around him, but Shaw should be a key figure on both sides of the ball.

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 24, 2017

Defense/special teams OK, so it’s difficult to pinpoint just one team defense that’ll be the best on your fantasy squad, so instead we’re picking a few standouts that may not otherwise get attention.

15

Toney Davis, Central Coosa right tackle Davis is one of the only returning starters for the Central Coosa Cougars. He’ll be one of the biggest players on the team, measuring in at 5-foot-11, 220 pounds. With Coosa’s small roster number, Davis will likely play both ways this season.

Flex

Davede Herron, Benjamin Russell Herron is a great choice at the flex position for the area’s fantasy football team due to his versatility. Horn called him a “playmaker.”

Last season, Herron led the Wildcats with 22 receptions and 298 receiving yards, but this year, you may see more from him on the ground. He’ll split time with a deep running back corps, but he should be the No. 1 player in the backfield for BRHS.

Trey O’Neal, Reeltown linebacker O’Neal has emerged as one of the Rebels’ team leaders and will be a staple on defense. O’Neal is a dominating force at 6-foot-1, 215 pounds and will be a leading tackler. Rebels fans may also see O’Neal at wide receiver.

Benjamin Hendrix, Benjamin Russell inside linebacker

Despite missing a few games last season with an injury, Hendrix was a standout on defense last season. In just seven games played, he racked up 46 total tackles, including six for a loss and two sacks. He stands at 5-foot-10, 184 pounds.

Jaden Tuck, Benjamin Russell outside linebaker

Kicker

Dylan Moncus, Benjamin Russell If the Wildcats can get their snapping game figured out before Week 1, Moncus should easily be the top kicker in the area.

Last season, Moncus was 6-for-10 in field goal attempts and was 22-for-27 in point-after attempts. He’ll also serve as the team’s punter, and boasted 43 punts for 1,409 total yards and a 32.8-yard average.

Ab Abernathy, Dadeville offensive line

Abernathy is a three-year starter for the Tigers and boasts a 5-foot-10, 235-pound frame. On a team with a small roster, Abernathy has also emerged as a vocal leader for the Tigers this season.

With the strength of the Wildcats coming on defense, Tuck will be a staple at OLB. He’s 6-foot-4, 191 pounds and was second on the team last year with 59 total tackles. He had seven tackles for a loss and caused three quarterback hurries.

16

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 24, 2017

HORSESHOE BEND GENERALS

File / The Outlook

Horseshoe Bend is ready to get the season started under new head coach Josh Averett.

Expectations are high for Generals under new coach

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

With 18 returning seniors and a playoff appearance last season, expectations are soaring for Horseshoe Bend’s football team.

Under new head coach Josh Averett, the Generals have been hard at work this summer adjusting to how things will be done under the new regime.

“We’ve never done any of it before, so we’re just trying to get in as much as we can,” Averett said.

“The big thing is the terminology is different and some of the blocking schemes are different. Some of the plays are the same on how to block stuff, but you call formations differently.”

Luckily, the Generals will be under the direction of experienced quarterback Cade Worthy, a 5-foot-8, 140-pound senior who started last season. Last year, Worthy had a 67.0 completion percentage and threw for 993 yards and seven touchdowns. One of the biggest differences Horseshoe Bend fans will see this season is Worthy using his arm more often. “(Cade) is very smart and very intelligent,” Averett said. “He’s gonna make good decisions, which is something you always want at that position. We’ll probably throw it a lot more this year than he has in the past.”

Some of his top receivers will include seniors

“This is kinda their year to break out and do something special.”

— Josh Averett Horseshoe Bend head coach Nalijah Heard, Leevontae Robinson and Luke Yarbrough.

But the biggest offensive threat for the Generals will likely be Trace Meadows, who spent last season under top running back Drew Hill, who has since graduated. Although he had just 40 carries last year, Meadows (5-foot-7, 185 pounds) gained 478 yards for a staggering average of 12.0 yards per carry. He also scored seven touchdowns.

“The running game with Trace is kinda what we’re gonna hang our hat on,” Averett said. “He’s a speed guy. He’s not a huge back but he loves the weight room, so he’s a strong guy. He can run inside, but he also has plenty of speed. He probably runs a 4.5 in the 40.”

Protecting the skill players on the offensive line will be Drake Conway (5-8, 200); Matt Wilson (5-10,

195); Dakota Blythe (5-10, 175); Jade McKelvey (6-1, 210) and Evan Bentley (6-2, 270), all of whom are seniors.

Defensively, Averett said there will be between 10 and 12 linemen who rotate on the line.

Because of Horseshoe Bend’s small roster size, most of the same players will be standouts on the defensive side of the ball. Heard is expected to be a top linebacker, while Robinson and Yarbrough will be key figures in the secondary.

One to look out for will be Nywanski Russell, a 5-foot-10, 140-pound sophomore who will play both receiver and defensive back.

“He’s a young one, but he’ll probably start at corner,” Averett said. “He’ll be a good one to watch in the next couple years.”

With so many seniors leading the way, Averett’s Generals have a lot they hope to accomplish this season.

“I don’t think they’ve had a winning record in back-to-back years, so we definitely want to have a winning record,” Averett said. “We want to beat Reeltown, and if we could win a playoff game or even host one, it’s been a long time. These seniors have been together for a long time. Two years ago, they were 0-10, last year 6-5, so this is kinda their year to break out and do something special.”

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 24, 2017

17

HORSESHOE BEND GENERALS ROSTER No.

Name

Position

Grade

Ht.

Wt.

2 3 4 5 6 8 10 12 13 14 15 16 22 23 28 31 40 50 51 52 54 55 56 57 64 68 69 71 73 74 75 79 81

Nywanski Russell Cole Johnson Jace Rodriguez Nalijah Heard Kam Evers Corbin Shivers Luke Yarbrough Trent Cotney Leevontae Robinson Parker Branch Cade Worthy Brady Griffith Nicholas Brooks Trace Meadwos Joe Railey Grant Taylor Cody Massey Logan Branch Kendall Penwell Drake FConway Jose Cruz Matt Wilson Jase Jacques Grayson Walls Jaime Cruz Wes Young Lupe Mancillas Jaden McKelvey Jayden Beck Johnny Baker Evan Bentley A.J. Thompson Kevin Moore

WR/DB QB/DB WR/DB WR/LB WR/DB WR/DE WR/CB WR/DB WR/DB WR/LB QB/DB WR/DB WR/LB RB/LB WR/LB WR/DB/K WR/DE OL/DL OL/DL OL/LB Ol/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL WR/DB

So. Fr. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Fr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. So. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Fr. Sr. Fr. Fr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Sr. Fr.

5-10 5-8 5-10 6-0 5-10 5-7 5-7 5-9 6-0 5-9 5-8 5-9 5-10 5-11 5-7 5-11 5-11 6-2 5-8 5-8 5-8 5-10 5-8 5-11 6-0 5-8 5-10 6-1 6-3 5-4 6-2 6-0 6-0

140 130 170 170 150 155 155 140 165 170 140 180 140 185 155 150 160 230 195 200 210 195 165 250 280 170 170 210 360 175 270 390 135

HORSESHOE BEND GENERALS at a glance Coach: Josh Averett, first season Last year: 6-5, 4-3 Class 2A Region 5; lost to Fyffe, 56-7, in first round of playoffs Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Top returning starters: Cade Worthy (sr., QB); Trace Meadows (sr., RB/LB); Nalijah Heard (sr.,

WR/LB) First game: Friday, Sept. 1, at Donoho, 7 p.m.

Ticket cost: $7 Stadium name: Generals Stadium Stadium location: 10684 Highway 22 E; in front of Horseshoe Bend School

File / The Outlook

Above: Horseshoe Bend returns 18 seniors this season.

Bottom: Horseshoe Bendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trace Meadows (23) finds plenty of running room on a jet sweep against Holtville last year. Meadows will be the workhorse for the Generals this season.

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

18

AUGUST 24, 2017

COOSA CENTRAL COUGARS

Central Coosa coach Shane Rary is embarking on his first season at the helm.

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Size doesn’t matter for Central Coosa

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

Seventeen.

That’s the number of players Central Coosa currently has listed on its football roster.

For many teams, that number would be scary. But for the Cougars, they’re looking at it as something to prove.

“The team chemistry we have is fantastic,” Coosa coach Shane Rary said. “You would expect with all the adversity that we had, there would be some kind of in-fighting, but there’s nothing. They were good before all this, but now with all the adversity, they’ve really come together and gotten a pretty special bond.”

With only 17 players, though, there’s definitely some uncertainty and some kids who will be playing both ways.

Up front, the Cougars should be strong.

Making up both the offensive and defensive lines will be Toney Davis, Tahj Robbins, Keonta Harris, Levi Krause and Taylor Robinson. Although they average around 200 pounds, once again Central Coosa will be living by the mantra that size doesn’t matter.

Davis, who stands at 5-foot-11, 220 pounds, is returning for his senior season and should be a leader on the line.

“Our biggest strength are going to be our lines for sure,” Rary said. “They have decent size and good knowledge of what we do, and just their heart. There may be guys bigger and stronger than they are, but they’re going to have a little more want to get it done.”

Offensively, the pressure will be on Donta Daniel.

Although Daniel doesn’t have a lot of size –Rary said he’s pushing 5-8 and weighs about 170 pounds, he will be the top running back for the Cougars.

“He is a kid whose ceiling I don’t know if we can see it from here,” Rary said. “He’s not very tall, but he’s playing every bit of 6-2, 230. He plays well above his size and age and is gonna be athletically one of the best backs in our region this year.

“What he does this year is based on how far he wants to go, and he’s one of those guys in summer workouts that never wanted to quit. He was always pushing one more rep, making sure he got his sets in, and I guarantee he’ll be the same way on the field.”

Daniel will lead the charge in the tall task of

attempting to replace Outlook Player of the Year Raymond Graham. Last season, Graham was responsible for the majority of the offense, racking up 1,352 passing yards at quarterback and 1,626 yards on the ground. In 2016, Daniel had 294 yards on 72 carries and scored three touchdowns.

Replacing Graham at quarterback will be JaMichael Chambliss, a 5-8, 150-pound junior.

“The good thing about this team is that I think the team is ready for our offensive identity to be about more than one player as it kinda became in the last couple years,” Rary said. “We have enough athletes on the field and enough linemen that we’re about to do some things and spread the ball around, get lots of guys different touches and keep everybody on their toes.”

Dawson Duncan will be one of the top receivers, and Jay Hunt is expected to play multiple positions on the field.

Despite the obstacle of getting a new coach after practice had officially begun, Rary’s Cougars haven’t changed their ultimate goal of hosting a playoff game — something that hasn’t happened in Central Coosa football history.

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 24, 2017

File / The Outlook

CENTRAL COOSA COUGARS ROSTER

Above: Despite some adversity, the Central Coosa Cougars still have high goals for the upcoming football season.

Right: Donta Daniel is expected to the top running back for Central Coosa this season.

CENTRAL COOSA COUGARS at a glance Coach: Shane Rary, first season Last year: 5-5, 3-3 Class 3A Region 3 Offense: Multiple spread Defense: 3-5 Top returning starters: Toney Davis (sr., OL/DL); Donta Daniel (so., RB/LB) First game: Friday, home vs. Catholic Montgomery, 7 p.m.

Ticket cost: $7 Stadium name: Keith Bullard Stadium Stadium location: 243 County Rd. 75, Rockford; next to Central Coosa High School.

19

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Name

Grade

Ht.

Wt.

Amarion Williams Caleb McCain Chaz Nickolson Clayton Calfee Dawson Duncan JaMichael Chambliss James Hunt Jashaslin James John Godoy Keaonta Hines Levi Krause Stephen Payne Tahj Robbins Toney Davis Xavier Moon

Fr. Sr. So. Fr. So. Jr. Sr. 8th Jr. Jr. So. Fr. Jr. Sr. Fr.

5-0 5-8 5-6 5-2 6-0 5-8 5-7 5-7 5-8 6-0 168 5-3 5-8 5-11 5-9

194 222 119 135 194 150 145 155 146 180 6-2 91 195 220 171

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2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

20

AUGUST 24, 2017

REELTOWN REBELS

File / The Outlook

Reeltown’s Kyle Nelson tries to bring down Sand Rock’s William Carver during a game last season. Nelson returns at defensive line for the Rebels.

Skill players will drive Reeltown’s success

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

Despite being chock full of young players, Reeltown’s football team is loaded with skill players who could potentially drive the success this season.

Because of their offensive depth, it’s hard to pinpoint just one Rebel who will be the workhorse.

From Eric Shaw, Trey O’Neal and Rhasheed Wilson at wide receiver to Makevon Hughley, Tre Hughley and Cameron Faison at running back, there’s plenty of talent to go around.

“They’re very young, but they are experienced,” Reeltown coach Matt Johnson said. “A lot of times there are things, based off what we get, where they’re going to be on an island and have to be gritty and be tough. Really, all those guys will play huge roles on both sides of the football and on special teams.”

After a competitive position battle through the summer, junior Khoner Davis will likely take over the quarterbacking duties. Davis stands at 5-foot-9, 150 pounds.

“The last two weeks, I really can’t say enough about Khoner,” Johnson said. “We’ve moved him around to different places; he’s really a utility player at quarterback. He’s done great job at receiver, too, and been really gritty running the football. Throwing the ball, he’s been real coachable, so he’s had a great two

“It’s a tough region and it’s a region with some really good coaches.”

— Matt Johnson Reeltown coach weeks.”

Protecting Davis will be an offensive line that Johnson said was “by committee.” Just a week prior to the start of the season, there was still quite a bit of competition going on for starting positions on the line.

Defensively, Leo Lewis, Kyle Nelson and Rajerrian Wright will anchor the line of Reeltown’s 3-4 defense.

O’Neal, a 6-1, 215-pound inside linebacker, will be the quarterback of the defense, though.

“He’s our big guy on defense,” Johnson said. “He calls our defense and makes sure everyone is lined up.”

Landon Hunt (6-0, 190) may be one to look out for on the defensive line. He’ll also play tight end.

Although he’s a senior who’s never played before, Johnson said he had a very strong summer and fall camp.

One area the Rebels will be looking for improvement is leadership. Although O’Neal and Faison have both emerged as leaders here and there, Johnson said he’d like to see someone take control of the team.

“There are two types of teams; there are teams that are player-driven and teams that are coach-driven,” Johnson said. “The team that’s coach-driven is gonna have some success, but when the bullets start flying out on the field, coaches ain’t gonna be able to drive you.

There’s always a limit to teams that are coach-driven.

“Right now, we’re trying to wean them off that and let them take accountability for themselves, their actions and how they perform in order to be successful every single day.”

Reeltown kicks off the season with a pair of rivalry games, traveling to Notasulga on Thursday and hosting Dadeville next week. Then it doesn’t get any easier from there. Region 5 Class 2A includes the likes of Lanett, LaFayette, Horseshoe Bend, Woodland, Ranburne, Vincent and Fayetteville.

“I don’t know if there’s a team in our region that you can’t not prepare for,” Johnson said. “Top to bottom, it’s a tough region. You gotta be prepared every week, and you see multiple stuff. You may see spread one week, you may see someone running at you. It’s a tough region and it’s a region with some really good coaches.”

AUGUST 24, 2017

2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

21

REELTOWN REBELS at a glance REELTOWN REBELS ROSTER Coach: Matt Johnson, second season Last year: 6-5, 5-2 Class 2A Region 5; lost to Sand Rock, 20-18, in first round of playoffs.

Offense: Pro line, wishbone Defense: 3-4 multiple Top returning starters: Trey O’Neal (jr., LB/WR); Makevon Hughley (jr., RB/CB); Tre Hughley (so., OLB/ RB); Cameron Faison (so., RB/CB); Leo Lewis (jr., OL/ DL); Kyle Nelson (sr., OL/DL); Jacob Rodgers (sr., OL); Eric Shaw (so., WR/DB) First game: Thursday, at Notasulga, 7 p.m.

Ticket cost: $7 Stadium name: Nix-Webster-O’Neal Stadium Stadium location: 4085 Highway 120; down 49 behind Reeltown Elementary School.

No.

Name

Position

Grade

Ht.

Wt.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15 16 18 21 24 27 28 44 50 51 54 55 56 57 58 62 72 74 78

Rhasheed Wilson Cameron Faison Iverson Hooks Makevon Hughley Ardarios Woods Eric Shaw Kolby Coan Logan Lee Markevious Smith Jay Corbitt Landon Hunt Tre O’Neal Logan Hunt Khoner Davis Derrick Hammonds Andy Mann Jordan Whitlow Tre Hughley Colby Clark Connor Moore Nelson Whaley Rajerrian Wright Chandler Gray Liotez Lewis Mike Lowe Kyle Nelson Jacob Rodgers Caleb Gantt Robert Crittenden Kemontez Harris Justin House LJ Hill

CB RB/CB RB/CB RB/CB WR/DB WR/DB FB/LB FB/LB WR/DB RB/LB TE/DE TE/LB QB QB WR/CB WR/LB FB/LB RB/LB WR/DB K/WR TE/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL LB/OL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL LB/OL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL

So. So. 8th Jr. Sr. So. Jr. Fr. Fr. So. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. Jr. Jr. Jr. So. Jr. So. So. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Fr. So. Jr. Sr. Fr.

5-11 5-10 5-6 5-7 5-11 6-4 5-9 5-8 5-9 5-8 6-0 6-1 6-0 5-9 5-6 5-11 5-9 5-8 5-11 5-6 6-1 5-9 5-8 5-10 6-2 6-1 5-10 6-0 5-7 5-6 6-0 5-7

140 160 135 150 170 195 166 155 150 180 190 215 180 150 150 185 215 190 175 140 220 250 175 245 185 200 200 220 170 270 245 275

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Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Reeltown’s Eric Shaw, right, goes up for a catch in front of a Montgomery Academy defender during organized team activities this summer.

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22

AUGUST 24, 2017

TALLASSEE TIGERS Baynes will anchor a Tallassee team with plenty of returners

By CARMEN RODGERS TPI Staff Writer

With Casey Baynes as quarterback, Tallassee’s football team made it to the second round of the playoffs last season. Now Baynes is back and ready to lead the team into the trenches again.

Throughout fall camp, Tigers coach Mike Battles has been pleased with what he’s seen from the team.

“We have had great practices and a really great summer,” he said. “It’s been hot but they have pushed through. I’ve really been surprised at how much they can do after these two weeks that we have been practicing.”

Offensively, the Tigers will have a multiple formation offense, relying on some Notre Dame boxes and gun formations, while they’ll play a 3-4 defense.

In addition to Baynes, the Tigers have several strong players returning for the 2017

season.

Running backs Cochran Gill and Marquevis Mathews are back, as well as the top two receivers in Calvin Levett and Jake Burton. Defensively, linebackers Andy Baker and Trent Cochran-Gill return, and Burton will also play some on the defensive side of the ball.

Anchoring the offensive line will be Caleb Stewart, who is the only returning starter on the line and will carry a heavy weight on his shoulder.

Last year it was Jake Baker, now a Troy Trojan, who led the offensive line and there is no doubt, Stewart has big shoes to fill the season.

“We have to replace all of our offensive and defensive line,” Battles said. “The guys who played those positions last year are all playing college football now.”

Battles says he has high expectations for all of his players, especially players who are

in this year’s senior class.

“I expect all of seniors to be leaders,” He said. “We preach that to them every day. That leadership comes in all shapes, forms and fashions and I think this bunch is working on it and I think they will become great leaders. I think that all of our seniors, at some point, are going to have to play a leadership role.”

According to Battles each game is as important as the next in this season. However, a few games may stand above the rest for various reasons.

“Hanley, the defending state champs, that will be one that the fans will be excited about.

Munford, Leeds, Dadeville are always big games,” he said.

“Elmore County is our big rival.”

While the season can go either way, Battles is confident the 2017 Tallassee Tigers’ football team will deliver the type of hard fought, competi-

File / The Outlook

Tallassee’s Matt Justiss, left, makes a scramble around a Reeltown player during this summer’s organized team activities.

tive football this community is accustomed to.

“I can’t tell you how many we are going to win.” Battles said. “I can’t tell you how many we are going to lose. I can tell

you we are going to try to win every one of them. I think this team is going to give the type of effort that the City of Tallassee and our school system is used to seeing.”

ASWA High School Football Preseason Poll (First-place votes and 2016 record in parentheses) Class 7A 1. Hoover (29) (12-2) 366 2. Central-Phenix City (1) (10-2) 261 3. Thompson (5-5) 229 4. Hewitt-Trussville (1) (11-1) 191 5. James Clemens (8-4) 179 6. McGill-Toolen (13-1) 171 7. Spain Park (8-3) 114 8. Bob Jones (7-4) 83 9. Auburn (8-4) 64 10. Enterprise (10-2) 56 Others receiving votes: Gadsden City (7-6) 22, Mountain Brook (8-3) 10, Vestavia Hills (5-5) 8, Lee-Montgomery (0-9) 5, Murphy (6-5) 5, Sparkman (4-6) 3.

Class 6A 1. Ramsay (18) (13-2) 297 2. Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa (4) (11-1) 233 3. Blount (1) (10-3) 201 4. Austin (2) (10-4) 194 5. Opelika (13-2) 184 6. Pinson Valley (5) (8-4) 180 7. Oxford (10-1) 155 8. Daphne (1) (9-3) 108 9. Muscle Shoals (7-6) 76 10. Park Crossing (13-1) 44

Others receiving votes: Spanish Fort (10-3) 43, Gardendale (8-4) 12, Hazel Green (6-4) 8, Jackson-Olin (8-3) 8, ClayChalkville (6-5) 5, Sidney Lanier (8-3) 5, Wetumpka (8-3) 5, Decatur (10-2) 4, Saraland (6-5) 3, McAdory (8-4) 1, Pell City (6-5) 1.

Class 5A 1. Beauregard (26) (13-1) 350 2. Briarwood Chr. (3) (12-2) 270 3. St. Paul’s (2) (9-4) 260 4. Vigor (8-4) 183 T5. Alexandria (5-4) 127 T5. Carroll (12-1) 127 7. Central-Clay Co. (9-3) 97 8. Wenonah (11-3) 90 9. Eufaula (8-3) 87 10. Brooks (9-3)56 Others receiving votes: Demopolis (7-4) 25, Russellville (8-4) 19, Jackson (9-4) 15, Charles Henderson (7-4) 11, Mortimer Jordan (10-3) 10, Scottsboro (12-1) 10, Etowah (9-3) 9, Calera (8-4) 7, Guntersville (6-5) 6, Fairfield (7-5) 5, Pleasant Grove (4-7) 2, Moody (4-6) 1.

Class 4A 1. Handley (29) (13-2) 365

2. Andalusia (12-2) 257 3. Madison Acad. (11-4) 188 4. UMS-Wright (1) (9-3) 172 5. Rogers (12-1) 162 6. Leeds (1) (8-4) 142 7. St. James (10-2) 101 8. Hokes Bluff (9-5) 80 9. Cordova (9-3) 74 10. Fayette Co. (5-7) 61 Others receiving votes: Tallassee (9-4) 54, Cherokee Co. (10-3) 26, Wilson (8-3) 25, Madison Co. (6-5) 19, Thomasville (9-3) 12, Bibb Co. (8-4) 7, Dale Co. (7-4) 7, North Jackson (6-5) 6, Munford (6-5) 4, West Blocton (6-5) 3, Haleyville (9-2) 2.

Class 3A 1. Piedmont (27) (15-0) 351 2. Mobile Chr. (3) (13-2) 271 3. Gordo (1) (13-1) 268 4. Ohatchee (12-2) 165 5. Montevallo (10-2) 162 6. Opp (9-2) 110 7. Oakman (8-5) 109 8. Pike Co. (9-3) 85 9. Weaver (9-4) 72 10. Randolph Co. (10-3) 59 Others receiving votes: Clarke Co. (4-6) 43, Hillcrest-Evergreen (5-7) 24, Lauderdale Co. (7-5) 12, T.R. Miller (8-3) 12, Fultondale (8-3) 9, Bayside

Acad. (8-5) 5, Plainview (6-5) 4, Wicksburg (8-4) 4, Lexington (8-4) 1, Straughn (4-6) 1.

Class 2A 1. Fyffe (28) (15-0) 354 2. Aliceville (1) (13-2) 272 3. Lanett (1) (11-3) 230 4. Elba (10-3) 225 5. G.W. Long (1) (12-1) 154 6. Tanner (9-4) 128 7. LaFayette (12-1) 125 8. Leroy (8-4) 110 9. New Brockton (7-5) 52 10. Sand Rock (9-3) 43 Others receiving votes: Reeltown (6-5) 17, Sheffield (9-3) 13, Goshen (8-4) 12, Southern Choctaw (10-2) 12, Cleveland (8-4) 5, Washington Co. (6-4) 5, Horseshoe Bend (6-5) 4, Cold Springs (5-6) 2, Westbrook Chr. (3-7) 2, Luverne (7-4) 1, Red Bay (8-3) 1.

Class 1A 1. Maplesville (29) (14-0) 365 2. Sweet Water (9-3) 261 3. Linden (2) (13-1) 246 4. Pickens Co. (11-4) 210 5. Brantley (7-5) 166 6. Addison (13-1) 110 7. Cedar Bluff (8-4) 107 8. Spring Garden (10-2) 79

9. Marengo (6-5) 50 10. Notasulga (7-5) 49 Others receiving votes: Hackleburg (9-3) 30, Houston Co. (6-5) 22, Loachapoka (3-8) 13, Georgiana (12-1) 12, Wadley (10-1) 12, Decatur Heritage (10-3) 10, Isabella (10-2) 10, Ragland (7-4) 5, Sumiton Chr. (9-3) 3, Hubbertville (10-2) 2 South Lamar (6-5) 2, Millry (4-7) 1, Talladega Co. Central (4-6) 1, Woodville (5-6) 1.

AISA 1. Autauga Acad. (28) (13-0) 353 2. Bessemer Acad. (2) (13-1) 283 3. Escambia Acad. (8-5) 247 4. Monroe Acad. (1) (11-2) 215 5. Glenwood (8-4) 185 6. South Choctaw Acad. (8-3) 139 7. Chambers Acad. (12-1) 127 8. Abbeville Chr. (7-6) 77 9. Pike Liberal (6-5) 49 10. Lee-Scott (7-5) 41 Others receiving votes: Clarke Prep (4-8) 21, Patrician (5-6) 14, Cornerstone Chr. (8-3) 5, Marengo Acad. (11-1) 5, Southern Acad. (4-7) 4, Lakeside (5-6) 1, Lowndes Acad.

(8-3) 1.

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2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

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John McNeal takes over coaching duties at Lyman Ward

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

When John McNeal was on the job hunt, he said finding Lyman Ward Military Academy was a blessing.

“Really, it was kind of a calling for me,” McNeal said. “I had been doing a lot of job searches, looking to teach somewhere and I came across this particular school that said, ‘We not only do academics and athletics, but we also have a military feel to it.’ That’s pretty sweet for me, so I checked it out in April and just fell in love with the idea of the school.”

McNeal, who was in the Marines for four years, has a big background in rugby. He not only played Division I rugby at Eastern Kentucky before transferring to the University of Kentucky for his bachelor’s degree in physical education and health promotion, McNeal also coached a semester of women’s rugby at EKU. In addition, McNeal

is a referee for college basketball and an umpire for high school baseball.

“When I was at UK, I worked in the intermural program, and that really taught me how to run an intermural program and how the teams work,” McNeal said.

The Fighting Rangers play in an eight-man football league, which McNeal said is fairly similar to 11-man football, except teams are playing three men down. Usually, he said, they are a lot more high scoring.

“Instead of having five on the line, you usually play with three on the line, and you have your two wideouts, a receiver and a full back in addition to the quarterback,” McNeal explained.

For McNeal’s Rangers, it’s going to be a learning experience. Lyman Ward just began tryouts and practice on Tuesday, and McNeal expects to have a fairly small roster with many players going both ways.

Although he said he’s mostly going in blind because he’s new to the school, a lot of the staff members have given him pointers on who’s returning and what athletes to look out for. But it will be an open tryout for anyone in the school.

“Our athletes will dictate our style

of play, but my philosophy is that sports are meant to mold young men into gentlemen both on and off the field,” McNeal said. “With our program, that’s the way they’re going to play, or they won’t play on my team.”

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2017 GRIDIRON GUIDE

AUGUST 24, 2017