Dec 1, 2016 Alex City Outlook

OPINION: THANKFUL FOR THE FIREFIGHTERS, PAGE 4.

THE CALENDAR, PAGE 9 Hometown Christmas Parade coming soon

THURSDAY BASKETBALL ROUNDUP

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

December 1, 2016

Vol. 124, No. 241

www.alexcityoutlook.com

County has plan for discarded tires

By MITCH SNEED Editor

On virtually every rural dirt road, creek, river or lake in Tallapoosa County a discarded tire can be found without too much effort.

Because of the size, weight and cost associated with tire disposal, it’s a problem being battled all across the state. But thanks to money made available by the Alabama Department

of Environmental Management, Tallapoosa County Commissioners are finalizing a plan to help eliminate the illegal dumping of tires.

Commission Chairman John McKelvey said contracts have been signed and logistics are being worked out on a plan that will give residents an option for proper disposal of unwanted tires.

Sports, page 10.

John Thompson / Special to The Outlook

This pile of tires was collected by volunteers at last month’s Renew Our Rivers Cleanup around Lake Martin.

See TIRES • Page 3

Dadeville Elementary celebrates Lighthouse status

GOD’S FAUCET DRIPS AGAIN

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

County farmer’s federation Lake Levels awards Farm City students 483.14 Reported on 11/30/16 @ 7 p.m.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

By MITCH SNEED Editor

See TRASH • Page 3

See LIGHTHOUSE • Page 2

Lake Martin

PATH Trash Walk set for Saturday Want to help make our area as beautiful as it can be? You have the opportunity to do just that on Saturday.

The final PATH Trash Walk of 2016 is scheduled for Saturday morning and John Thompson of the Lake Martin Resource Association is asking for volunteers to come out and help cleanup trash that has reappeared in the last couple of months.

“We plan to meet near

More rain soaked the area Wednesday, giving Alexander City a two-day today on 2.89 inches of rain over a 48-hour period.

Above, a student at Jim Pearson tries to wipe away raindrops as he prepares for his bus ride home Wednesday.

A check of the weather radar on a cellphone showed that rain was falling in the area and the water drops proved it. The rain was heavy at times, slowing traffic along Cherokee Road

Students and faculty at Dadeville Elementary School celebrated a milestone after a four-year effort to reach a goal only few schools in the state and around the world have reached by implementing a leadership program.

The roughly 660 students gathered in the school’s gymnasium Tuesday to show what they had accomplished with the Leader in Me program, and the “habits” it works to instill in the students through changes in their environment and the school’s learning culture.

A representative of the FranklinCovey Company spoke to the students about their accomplishments in reaching the Lighthouse Milestone Marker.

FranklinCovey published “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.”

The company states that it specializes in performance improvement and is described as providing assessment services and time

Cliff Williams / The Record

Neal Kelly, left, president of the Tallapoosa County Farmers Federation poses with Farm City Award winners Jayden Siggers, Destiny Massengill, Timothy Christian, Tessa Ray and Hallie Lock and Tallapoosa County Farm City chairman Vickie Watkins at the Tallapoosa County Farm City Banquet Tuesday.

The Tallapoosa County Farmer’s Federation handed out its Farm City student awards Tuesday night at its Annual Farm City Banquet.

Students in Tallapoosa County were tasked with coming up with posters, essays and multimedia presentations on a farming theme.

“Every year the Farm City program has got a different theme,” Tallapoosa County Farm City Chairman Vickie Watkins said. “We try to educate children on the importance of farming and agriculture. The essay and posters have to be according to that theme. The theme this year was “Stewards of a Healthy Planet.”

Watkins says the idea is so that students learn a little about where food and other things come from.

“We try to educate children on the importance See FARMERS • Page 3

LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443

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

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Wife’s job at the gym has husband in a sweat

Friday

61 40 High

Low

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Saturday

57 44 Low

High

Mostly cloudy, 30 percent chance of showers

Staff

Directory David Granger Staff Writer, Ext. 210 david.granger@alexcityoutlook.com

Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com

Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Donna Jones Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 donna.jones@alexcityoutlook.com Jaylan Reynolds Advertising Sales, Ext. 232 jaylan.reynolds@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Advertising Sales, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com

Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Accounting Angela Mullins Bookkeeping, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Mary Lyman Boone Bookkeeping marylyman.boone@alexcityoutlook.com

Composing Audra Spears Composing Department, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Graphic Artist, Ext. 231 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com

Newsroom Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Lonna Upton Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 lonna.upton@alexcityoutlook.com Cathy Higgins Sports Editor, Ext. 228 cathy.higgins@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com

Postal

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

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

Thursday, December 1, 2016

The Outlook

DEAR ABBY: My wife and I have been married for almost 11 years and have three children.

About four years ago my wife cheated on me and left. After a six-week split, we decided we wanted to work things out.

Everything was great -- until recently, when she got a job working at a busy gym.

Several of the guys from the gym have added her on Facebook and send her messages. They like all her posts and pictures. I work out there and when I go in, I see her laughing and joking with them. This has all started to bring me flashbacks to when she cheated.

I tried talking to her about how I feel, but she just says they are my insecurity issues and I need to deal with them.

At this point, I’m contemplating divorce so I won’t go through the same pain I went through last time. I check her Facebook page constantly to see if she has added any new guys and see

How to Submit Obituaries Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by e-mail at obits@alexcityoutlook.com For more information, call (256) 234-4281.

DEAR ABBY Advice

what comments they are leaving. I know it’s not healthy, and it makes me constantly depressed.

My wife has no interest in marriage counseling, but tells me I should seek professional help for my issues. Is there any saving this marriage, or is it time to move on? -- THREATENED IN TEXAS DEAR THREATENED: Part of your wife’s job is to be friendly to the members of that gym. It doesn’t mean that she’s involved with any of them outside of work.

The problem with jealousy and insecurity is that unless they are managed, they tend to feed on each other and grow. While I can’t banish the suspicions from

your mind, some sessions with a licensed mental health professional might help you to put them into perspective. It may save your marriage. However, if it doesn’t ease your mind, you can always talk to a lawyer.

DEAR ABBY: I take a maintenance pain pill for arthritis. I count them every other day to make sure that I’m not taking too many.

My daughter has been coming to my house a lot lately, and -- not every time, but off and on -- I’ll count my pills after she leaves, and my count doesn’t match the one from the day before. Sometimes I’m missing almost all of them, but when I talk to my daughter and ask if she took them, she always says she didn’t. If I ask nicely, “Are you sure?” she accuses me of calling her a liar.

I know she’s taking them, but I don’t know what to do about her lying to me about it. I

really need the pills for myself.

The doctor prescribes them only once a month, and I know I’m going to run out.

What should I do? I don’t want to hurt my daughter’s feelings, but she needs to stop taking my pills. -- IN PAIN IN KANSAS DEAR IN PAIN: Your daughter may have become addicted to your pain medication or be selling them to people who are.

It’s time to start keeping your pills under lock and key. Once you do, your daughter may be forced to come clean about the lying -- or you may find you’re seeing a lot less of her than you presently do.

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

Obituaries Malvin Ray Funeral Service for Malvin Ray will be Friday, December 2, 2016 at 2 p.m. at Bethel Baptist Church in Jackson’s Gap, with Rev. Jamie Williams officiating. He will lie in state 2 hours before the service. Burial will follow in the Church Cemetery. Mr. Ray died at Chapman Healthcare on November 30, 2016. The family will receive friends on Thursday, December 1, 2016, from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. at Wright’s Funeral Home, 131 Mason Street. Mr. Ray was born on March 26, 1927 to Alton and Daisy Norrell

Ray. He is survived by; Nephews: Albert Lee (Myra) Pasley and Donnie (Donna) Rodgers. Nieces; Frances (Dewey) Amerson, Debra Rodgers and Joan (James) Bradford.

Several great nieces and great nephews.

He is preceded in death his parents. His sister, Norma Rodgers and Brothers, Joe, Wilson and Alvin Ray. Wright’s Funeral Home directing Wrightsfuneralservice.com

Circulation Linda Ewing Asst. Circulation Manager, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com

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

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

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

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

Meetings are held in town hall at 6 p.m. n Community Action Agency of Chambers, Tallapoosa, Coosa will holds its regular board of directors meetings every other month at the Central Office in Dadeville. n Coosa County Board of Education holds called meetings at least once a month. n Coosa County Commission meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the Coosa County Courthouse in Rockford at 9:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday and at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday. n Coosa County Industrial Development Board will hold its regularly scheduled meeting the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Board Room in the courthouse in Rockford. All meetings are

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open to the public. n Dadeville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. with a premeeting at 5:30 p.m. in city hall.

Corey Arwood / The Outlook

n Daviston City Council meets the third Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the Daviston Fire Department.

Above, Superintendent Joseph Windle leads DES students and Assistant Principal Nina Williams in a “tiger growl” Wednesday at the school’s Lighthouse Milestone celebration. Right, the student body and teachers gathered in the gymnasium for the celebration.

n Goldville Town Council meets the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the town hall. n Goodwater City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month.

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

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

All customers are invited to attend. n Rockford Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 7 p.m. n Tallapoosa County Board of Education meets on the second Monday of each month. Meetings are held in the new central office at 679 East Columbus Street, Dadeville, AL 36853. n Tallapoosa County Commission meets the second Monday of the month at 9 a.m. in the courthouse in Dadeville, with a pre-meeting also open to the public 30 minutes before each regular session. n Tallapoosa County 911 Board will meet on the second Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the 911 Administrative office at 240 West Columbus Street, Dadeville. Call 825-8490 for more information.

Lighthouse management training products.

Tallapoosa County School Board Superintendent Joseph Windle gave an energetic speech to the students.

Before the event he spoke about the school’s designation as a Lighthouse School, by the Leader in Me program.

“This is a culmination of a process that began about 4 years ago,” said Windle. “I don’t know if the school even realizes the magnitude of the achievement that they have accomplished with achieving the Lighthouse Milestone.”

Windle said there are only 19 schools in the state that have reached the goal and only 240 worldwide through FranklinCovey’s international division.

At the ceremony each class presented one of the habits in some display through skits, songs, dances and videos.

The habits are largely derived form the “7 Habits” book, and the elementary students announced them one by

continued from page 1

one beginning with “Be proactive,” “Begin With the End in Mind” and ending wiyh “Synergize” and “Sharpen the Saw.” They used a number of demonstrations to illustrate what each of these meant and how they were employing them at their school and in their lives.

When asked whether he had seen an impact at the school with the implementation of the program, Windle said, “Unquestionably so.”

“It has an overall positive affect on the environment because it’s an entire culture change,” Windle said.

He said discipline referrals and tardiness have gone down, and attendance has increased at the school.

“As we have seen over the last four years as this model has been implemented in the school there’s more than just a change in the appearance of the building,” Windle said.

DES teacher Teresa Brunetti said she had been involved with the program since it’s beginning at the school.

She said she was one of the eight teachers and administrators who had worked together to lead the Leader in Me process, and keep up with requirements set in the program.

“We had (FranklinCovey) folks come though our school at the end of last year and there were a variety of things that we needed to master and different markers that we needed to have as far as student leadership and goal setting and data tracking and we were able to show them what we were doing as a school and they appreciated it,” said Brunetti.

She said it would be a process the school would carry on with as well, and one which would receive continued evaluations from FranklinCovey representatives every three or four years.

On stage Windle led the students in a “Tiger Growl,” and then explained where the idea to implement the program came from “Almost four years ago Dadeville Elementary School started on a jour-

ney, many of you kids were here when it started.

We asked a question, we looked at this mission that you have here in this school, they said make them smarter and make them better,” Windle said.

He told the students that the administration and teachers knew how to make them smarter through their classes.

“But we had a little question in our mind about how we make you better,” Windle said. “We had a question about how we make you better citizens for the community that you’re going to grow up in, for the state that you’re going to grow up in and better citizens for this country. So citizenship came into the equation and we weren’t sure how we were going to do that, but we stumbled on this thing called The Leader in Me.” After the hour-long ceremony and during a lull in the rain, the students and teachers hurried across the street to release balloons in front of the gymnasium.

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Page 3

www.alexcityoutlook.com

The Outlook

Santa and a helper wave from the top of a float in last year’s Christmas Parade.

File / The Outlook

File / The Outlook

An Eclectic Christmas again features presentations through a walking tour dramatization of the Christmas story and featured numerous structures, actors and live animals. Below, among the cast members of last year’s “An Eclectic Christmas” were Jeanne Osborn, left, and Norma Billings, right.

‘TIS THE SEASON Eclectic Christmas Festival planned for Saturday

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Thanksgiving just ended but Santa’s making his rounds early in Eclectic and has plans to drop into town next weekend at the annual Eclectic Christmas Parade.

And this year, the town’s tradition has been renewed into a full blown festival.

“This year we have brought back our Eclectic Christmas Festival,” said Eclectic Mayor Gary Davenport He said this year’s Christmas celebration would be the first time since roughly 2009 the town has held a full-fledged festival.

The parade is scheduled for Saturday at 4 p.m., but Davenport said this year there would be a day’s worth of activity beginning around 11 a.m.

He said local merchants had entered the program and would hold an open house from 11 a.m.

– 4 p.m. with drawings for giveaways and prizes.

Davenport said businesses outside of the downtown area would participate as well.

“We have merchants on the outskirts that will be setting up vendors along the parade route,” said Davenport.

He said the parade route will come down West

College by the senior center in front of the high school and would turn on U.S. Highway 63 north to Main Street, past town hall and will turn to go back to the high school and wind up at Panther Palace children’s park.

A tree-lighting ceremony is planned at the end of the parade, which Davenport said would be around 5:30 p.m, and a Santa Claus will be posted up across the street at the senior center.

He said after the tree lighting the winners of the day’s prizes and giveaways would be announced.

Davenport said the parade grand marshal planned for this year is Elmore County District Two Commissioner Mack Daugherty.

He said businesses from outside of Eclectic had planned to participate as well from areas like neighboring Kent and Wetumpka.

Others from Eclectic who he said had not normally been able to participate but would this year are Russell Do-It Center, Johnson’s Furniture, First Community Bank, D&R Convenience Store and Kickin’ Chicken.

Davenport said the idea for bringing the festival back had been in the works for a few months after the local business leaders had expressed interest in giving the event another try this year.

Trash

continued from page 1

the Double Bridges on Highway 63,” Thompson said. “We meet at 8:30 a.m. and then fan out in groups and focus on certain problem areas.”

The forecast calls for pleasant temperatures and sunny conditions, which makes it a perfect day for the event.

“It should really be a great day for it,” Thompson said. “It will be a perfect time to be outside, walking and helping the community.

Besides receiving the benefit from healthy exercise, it can make you feel good to view a clean roadside. We hope to get a big group so we can

make quick work in that area.”

Recent trash walks have drawn as many as 70 volunteers.

Last month, about 20 tons of the trash along with more than 100 tires were removed from the lake’s shorelines thanks to nearly 250 volunteers helping out with the Lake Martin Resource Association’s Renew Our Rivers Annual Cleanup.

For more information contact Thompson at 334-399-3289.

Eclectic Christmas production set to begin tonight

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

‘An Eclectic Christmas’ is set to begin Thursday marking another year and nearly a decade of bringing hundreds of volunteers from many churches to transport those in search of a much more traditional holiday experience through a production of biblical proportions.

Starting Dec. 1, the event will run through Dec. 10.

That’s an additional two days this year. It is one of what Jonalan Wright said is many changes to the program for 2016.

Wright sits on the Eclectic Ministry board that has overseen ‘An Eclectic Christmas’ since it began roughly nine years ago out of First Baptist Church in Eclectic.

Now Wright said it is the result of numerous churches and even more volunteers.

He said on any one of the production nights there are about 200 people, representing upwards of 40 to 60 churches, who contribute to the multi-scene walk-through of the traditional biblical holiday story, held at the Falk Farm, located at 1733 Claude Road, just south of Eclectic on Alabama Highway 63.

Verdie Nummie, who also serves as assistant magistrate of Eclectic Municipal Court, is the secretary to the board of directors of Eclectic Ministry.

Nummie said so far this year there were 6,014 persons registered to participate.

“We’re at the point now what we did in total last year on confirmed reservations, we’ve already surpassed that and we haven’t even started yet,” said Wright.

Wright said people from

surrounding states come to Eclectic to walk through the three-quarter mile, 45-minute dramatization, which takes visitors down an outdoor walking trail through the live drama set during the Roman Empire, from Augustus Caesar’s decree that everyone must be counted in the census through the birth of Jesus.

He said he knew of some from Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina who had attended.

Wright thanked the volunteers to the program, whether they were individuals or businesses that contributed to the performance.

“I need the volunteers to know how much they’re appreciated. If it was not for them, this program could not happen,” Wright said.

Nummie said she works on ‘An Eclectic Christmas’ yearround.

She said the program would run from 6-9 p.m. on weekdays and on the weekend from 5:15-9 p.m. with walk-ins from 7:30-8:30 p.m.

However she recommended making a reservation, due to the crowding that has occurred in the past during those times.

Nummie said the tours begin every 15 minutes. Tours for handicapped individuals start at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

She said the tour is free, but donations are welcome.

Both Nummie and Wright concurred on the reason behind ‘An Eclectic Christmas.’

“People will come there that will not go to the church,” said Nummie.

Wright said a pastor awaits those who finish the program and have questions.

Tires “We signed the contracts Tuesday and we are still working on the guidelines and locations and other details,” McKelvey said. “I have to give credit to Sabrina Wood with the Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership. She made us aware of the program and we were able to get the ball rolling very quickly on it.

“Once everything is worked out, we feel like it is going to do wonders for a problem we have been dealing with for a long time around here.”

The way the program works is that the county will receive reimbursement from ADEM for removal and disposal of

continued from page 1

tires collected from roadways and roadsides. The program will provide up to $125,000 annually.

Lake Martin Resource Association President John Thompson helps organize cleanups across the area regularly. He said news of a program on the way to battle discarded tires is music to his ears.

“If there is one issue that we find more than any other is discarded tires,” Thompson said.

“Not only are they unsightly, but they provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes. There’s no excuse for illegally dumping them, but I do think that having a place where they can be taken will go

Farmer of farming and agriculture,” Watkins said. “Every student in Tallapoosa County had a chance to enter. Some schools were more enthusiastic than others. Some schools had more than others.

It is a good program to help with education in regards to agriculture.”

Watkins explained how winners were selected.

“We have school winners and these are the county winners,” she said. “They will go on to the state competition in February.”

The state winners have a little extra incentive.

“The winners at the state level get

a long ways to stop some of this foolishness.

“We just had the Renew Our Rivers Cleanup and we had a pile of tires that you wouldn’t believe. It’s just great news to hear that there will be a place that people can take tires soon. I appreciate everyone involved for seeing that there was a major problem and doing what it takes to do something about it.”

McKelvey said he is excited because he has seen a different problem caused by ties firsthand.

“Our crews have had to cleanup dumpsites with tires numerous times,” McKelvey said. “But more than that, I can’t

tell you how many pieces of equipment have been damaged by crews who hit a tire while cutting grass along roadways. If we can eliminate some of that, this program will be with the effort for sure.”

No definite timeline has been set for the program to begin. McKelvey said that the sites and logistics are now being worked out and that the county should have an announcement soon.

According to ADEM, there are now 50 Alabama counties taking part in the effort and to date about 50,000 discarded tires

have been eliminated as a result.

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money and go into the Farm City calendar,” Watkins said. “The multimedia winner is shown at the state conference.”

The essay winners in this year’s Tallapoosa County Farm City program are Jayden Siggers who attends school in Reeltown and Destiny Massengill who attends Reeltown also. Poster winners are Tessa Ray and Hallie Lock who both attend Horseshoe Bend School and the multimedia winner is Timothy Christian.

In addition to the students being honored following a fish fry, Clint Wall of Southeast Kiwi Farming Cooperative was the guest speaker and talked about the operation with attendees.

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Page 4

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View

Thanks to those who helped battle fires

W

e were all saddened to hear about the devastating fires that sent flames tearing through the Great Smoky Mountains, killing at least three people, destroying hundreds of homes and businesses and sending more than 14,000 fleeing from the resort towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Tourists and residents scrambled to outrun the blaze, which was pushed from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park into the towns by wind gusts of almost 90 mph. There were even some local folks who were in the resort community for holiday visits and events, who report that the devastation is so widespread that it is hard to describe.

As we watch the news from the Great Smoky Mountains unfold, we can’t help but be thankful that we haven’t had similar devastation here in our area.

From a wood yard fire in Dadeville to more than 100 acres that burned in Hackneyville, fires have been in the news recently.

With extreme drought conditions and a total burn ban in place, these fires as well as several other smaller incidents could have quickly grown to the level of what our friends in Tennessee are dealing with if not for the hard work and quick response by local firefighters and the Alabama Forestry Commission.

Working together, professional firefighters, volunteers and foresters, came up with strategies to contain the fires and prevent serious damage to structures.

Fire breaks were cut that kept the flames restricted to manageable areas.

Despite the dry conditions, the fires didn’t spread towards highly populated areas despite high-rising flames and embers flying into the air.

In some cases volunteers watched the sites around the clock to make sure the flames remained in control.

We have been lucky here when you consider what could have been.

Thankfully we have had some rain and the risk will diminish with every falling drop.

But our hats are also off in appreciation to all those who worked so hard to battle these fires and keep area residents and property as safe as possible.

Know Your

Officials

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

Jim Nabors

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

Bobby Tapley

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

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

Buffy Colvin

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

Scott Hardy

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

Eric Brown

Tommy Spraggins represents District 5.

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

Tommy Spraggins

Tim Funderburk represents District 6.

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

Tim Funderburk

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Rain is post-Thanksgiving reason to be thankful

I

stayed up longer than I should have on Monday night waiting for it. I had missed it. I wanted to see it, hear it, smell it.

I went to sleep before it arrived, but awoke to its familiar, though longabsent, sound.

The rain was here!

I walked outside and stood in it – not for long, but long enough to prove to myself that it was real.

Long enough to prove to myself I wasn’t still asleep and dreaming.

It was real, I was awake and I was not dreaming.

Even after I stepped back inside, I stood and watched it fall through the screen door. The leaves on the ground seemed to leap impatiently upward at the falling drops. Even though their lives had ended, they sought to embrace their old friend, to recall his soothing touch.

The wind that accompanied the rain made the trees dance a dance of pure wet, wind-whipped joy. My lawn, though largely beyond hope, seemed a wee bit perkier.

I thought about my grandfather who, for all of his life, farmed a patch of ground in Coffee County, Alabama, near Elba and how he loved to sit out front of Buren Bowers’ store and discuss the weather with his fellow farmers, especially when there was the promise

DAVID GRANGER Managing Editor

of a good rain shower.

For him, those raindrops might as well have been coins.

Then I thought about those men and women who still depend on the land for their living. I could only imagine their joy on this late November morning. Yes, it would have been better for the rain to have arrived weeks sooner, but, as they say, better late than never.

At least there’s now moisture in the air, which bodes well for the water cycle and for future rain chances. The dryness that we’ve experienced of late was pervasive. It robbed the air and the land of the moisture it needs to whip up a cloud and a resulting rain.

Now, we pray the moisture is back. We hope it sticks around for a while.

Winter in Alabama is usually relatively dry. We hope we can maintain enough moisture so that we don’t go through a near three-month period like we’ve just been through any time soon.

Yes, the drought that we have endured these past few months has been

memorable, though many would like to forget it.

The relief that we’ve felt with this current period of rainfall has been just as much so. For once, those who must get out in it don’t seem to mind the rain. It’s as if an old friend has returned for a much-overdue visit.

But all is not right yet.

The rain we’ve received already and that we have been promised over the next few days likely won’t be enough to end the fire danger in the state or restore sufficient moisture to the soil. For the sake of the well-being of the many farmers in this area and in this state, we need more.

We’ve just celebrated Thanksgiving. We’re now in the Christmas season.

People will be out shopping and, if the weather’s rainy, perhaps they’ll be upset about it.

They shouldn’t be.

They should remember the long, dry spell we’ve just gone through and know that, while Thanksgiving’s past and our thanks for the rain may be a few days late, we should still be thankful for it.

There are many among us who depend upon it.

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

Quote

“The good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge.”

– Bertrand Russell

Today’s

Scripture

“I take back everything I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance.”

– Job 42:6

alexcityoutlook.com

Daily Poll Wednesday Question: Have you made it a point to watch it rain?

Yes – 16 No – 7

Thursday Question: Have you ever volunteered with any non-profit organization?

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

Our

Sessions as AG will keep us on our toes

C

rawling out of their safe spaces after the election, the media are now advancing the narrative that Trump is running behind in his cabinet selection process and that tumult reigns.

Never mind that he is ahead of where Obama was at this stage of the game. Facts no longer have a place in modern mainstream reporting.

Obama went about assembling his cabinet like it was from Ikea. He wanted to focus on the complexity and diversity of the source of the parts, not the quality and durability of the product. And that “product” performed like a $17 Ikea bedside cabinet.

Trump’s first pick, Senator Jefferson Beauregard Sessions from the great state of Alabama for Attorney General, is a good one. Being a citizen of the South and having named my son “Jeb,” I like scaring Northerners with names like “Jefferson” and “Beauregard” - it keeps them on their toes. After eight years of Northern elitist rule, this will be fun. They won’t know if Jefferson Beauregard Sessions will first try to attack ISIS or mount an offensive to reclaim Richmond.

The South is proudly behind Trump and staunchly American.

Go to any SEC football game and you will see our patriotism. We do not Kaepernick-kneel for the National Anthem or “Dixie” unless we drop our bourbon flask.

According to Fox’s Greg Gutfeld, the first thing Trump and Sessions need to do is to pardon Billy Bush. Nancy O’Dell, from ET, still has her job. Yet Billy Bush is now having to anchor Access Dollywood.

Billy is a great guy done

Today’s

RON HART Columnist

wrong. I’d give him a cabinet position; maybe not heading the NSA, but running the Secret Service should be Billy’s for the asking.

Trump could have confused the left by putting Caitlyn Jenner on his transition team, given her recent experience.

Again, keep them guessing. Caitlyn was the toast of Hollywood, until she/he came out - as a Republican.

Sessions’ anti-illegal immigration stance was where he has bonded with Trump. But as we stop illegal immigration (the operative word “illegal” gets conveniently lost in the media; they just say “immigration” another misleading part of their narrative), we will reduce inflow. And some “celebs” like Miley Cyrus might leave our country, so it’s a win/win.

Trump is already making America Great.

Miley Cyrus, the dopey daughter of country music one-hit-wonder Billy Ray Cyrus, continues to hurt his achy breaky heart. She can seem all right for a while, but then she goes off script and acts like a maudlin, out-of-touch brat. This puts Billy Ray in a strong position to be appointed to head the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, since he can threaten to have more kids if his demands are not met.

My guess is that none of the “stars” who said they would leave the country will. Even George Clooney is not going to flee. But he felt he had to do something symbolic and courageous,

so he moved his office down the hall. Yes, celebs are mad, but not smart enough to learn the metric system. And it’s a lot of effort on the part of their personal assistants to explain to them just what making 15 million Euros per movie means.

Hollywood bears some responsibility for Trump’s rise. He was given “Celebrity Apprentice,” which elevated his national exposure. They could have kept him at bay by giving him an occasional Emmy. The left tried so hard to find Trump saying something racist or associating with one. The closest all-white racist group they have him talking to on film was when he once addressed the Academy Awards members. In fact, Trump’s cabinet is going to be so white it could win an Oscar.

Even Bill Clinton encouraged Trump to run. Now his apology to Hillary might go a little like this: “Honey, egging Trump to run was the worst thing I have done to you… well, you know, since…”

As a subset of upholding immigration and other laws of our nation, Sessions will also have to deal with defiant liberal mayors like New York’s Bill de Blasio and Chicago’s Rahm Emanuel on their sanctuary cities policies. They refuse to obey federal immigration laws, encouraging refugees to come to their cities. In dramatic, grandstanding statements this week, Mayors de Blasio and Emanuel told illegal immigrants that they would be safe in their cities. Syrian refugees looked at Chicago murder stats and said, “We like our odds better here in Aleppo.”

Mission

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

How to

Subscribe

The subscription rate is $136.00 per year in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and $177.99 outside the area. Periodicals paid at Alexander City, AL. Newspapers are available at 100 news racks in our area at 50 cents for The Outlook and 50 cents for The Record. We would love to deliver a paper to your door. Call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281, Ext. 204 or e-mail david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook. com.

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Thursday, December 1, 2016

1. Alabama 2. Penn State 3. Clemson 4. Washington 5. TCU

The Outlook

Jason Tapley

Kevin Keel

Shane Vick

94-36 72%

89-41 68%

86-44 66%

6. Oklahoma 7. Troy 8. Navy 9. South Alabama 10. Jacksonville St.

2133 Cherokee Rd. • Alex City, AL • 888-387-3230

1. Alabama 2. Penn State 3. Clemson 4. Colorado 5. TCU

Page 5

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1. Alabama 2. Penn State 3. Clemson 4. Washington 5. TCU

6. Oklahoma St. 7. Troy 8. Navy 9. South Alabama 10. Jacksonville St.

1. Alabama 2. Penn State 3. Clemson 4. Washington 5. TCU

6. Oklahoma St. 7. Troy 8. Navy 9. South Alabama 10. Jacksonville St.

Kevin Keel 786 S. Tallassee St. • Dadeville, AL • 256-825-4849

2133 Cherokee Rd. • Alex City, AL • 888-387-3230

Scott Hardy

Leslie Wingler

Matthew McClure

83-47 64%

82-48 63%

82-48 63%

6. Oklahoma 7. Troy 8. Navy 9. South Alabama 10. Jacksonville St.

1. Alabama 2. Penn State 3. Clemson 4. Washington 5. TCU

6. Oklahoma 7. Troy 8. Navy 9. South Alabama 10. Jacksonville St.

1. Alabama 2. Penn State 3. Clemson 4. Colorado 5. TCU

6. Oklahoma 7. Troy 8. Navy 9. South Alabama 10. Jacksonville St.

TPI

145 Alabama St. Alexander City, AL

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

P.O. Box 999 • Alexander City, AL 256-234-4281

256-329-2328

1551 Hwy. 280 • Alexander City, AL

(256) 234-3432

Brett Pritchard

Warry Sexton

Ralph Holley

80-50 62%

78-52 60%

74-56 57%

1. Alabama 2. Penn State 3. Clemson 4. Colorado 5. TCU

6. Oklahoma 7. Troy 8. Navy 9. South Alabama 10. Jacksonville St.

1. Alabama 2. Wisconsin 3. Clemson 4. Washington 5. Kansas State

6. Oklahoma 7. Troy 8. Navy 9. South Alabama 10. Jacksonville St.

1. Alabama 2. Wisconsin 3. Clemson 4. Washington 5. TCU

6. Oklahoma 7. Troy 8. Navy 9. South Alabama 10. Jacksonville St.

S & S DISCOUNT TIRE 857 Cherokee Road • Alexander City

Alexander City • 256-234-6346 Web Site www.cacc.edu

256-215-8822 The

Outlook CIRCLE YOUR PREDICTIONS 1. Florida vs. Alabama 2. Penn State vs. Wisconsin 3. Virginia Tech vs. Clemson 4. Colorado vs. Washington 5. Kansas State vs. TCU

6. Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma St. 7. Troy vs. Georgia Southern 8. Navy vs. Temple 9. So. Alabama vs. New Mexico St. 10. Jacksonville St. vs. Youngstown

Tie Breaker: Rushing Yards – Florida Name Address Phone Email

_

It’s fun and easy! CIRCLE the winners in the games listed by the team you think will win.

(One entry per person.) If more than one entry is entered, you will be disqualified. Must be 18 or older to play. Employees of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. and their family members are not eligible.

Bring or fax your entry to: 548 Cherokee Road Alexander City, AL Fax: 256-234-6550

Win $25

This Week’s Winner Vicki Yates Goodwater, AL Entries must be received by 5:00 p.m. Friday

Page 6

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Thursday, December 1, 2016

The Outlook

2016 Outlook Calendar Girls Calendar

Promys Yiauna Smith

Alyssa Channell

Little Miss December

Petite Miss Winter & Petite Miss Sportswear

Landry Carter Miss Winter

DECEMBER 2016

When the seasons change so does your skin.

Get Crystal Clear Skin all year long!

Grace’s

Flowers & Gifts Since 1962 951 Hillabee Street Alexander City 256-234-4238

Pampering • Deep Cleansing Skin Renewal Peels • Body Waxing

getcrystalclearskin.com 480-636-6015

Lee and Brandon Foshee

256-234-3298 2802 Dadeville Road Alex City, AL 35010

Unbeatable Selection.

Unbelievable Prices.

256.234.4141 Alexander City

Massage • Tanning • Monogramming • Hair

48 Broad Street Alexander City, AL

256.329.3633 The Body Shop offers a variety of treats for your soul...

sav A life

Free Pregnancy Testing • Adoption Referral Services “Earn While You Learn” Classes for Expecting Mothers ALL our services are FREE and CONFIDENTIAL!

334.279.3101 Montgomery

3 Wind Creek STATE PARK

Located at 11 Lafayette Street in Alexander City (256) 329-2273 or 1-866-540-4325 Open Mon. 8:00-5:00; Tues.-Thurs. 8:00-3:00

• Fun • Adventure • Memories

Walk-ins Welcome

www.alapark.com/windcreek

CHINESE & JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHI BAR

4325 Hwy 128, Alex City, AL 35010

LAKESHORE

Discount Pharmacy, Inc. 256.825.0063

256-234-9833 Dine In or Carry Out 4034 Hwy. 280, Alex City

Bridal Formal Pageant & Tux Shoes & Accessories

334.363.0824

1220 Fox Run Avenue, Ste 115, Opelika, AL 36801

256-329-0845

“Good Neighbor Pharmacy”

Sunday - Thursday 11am - 10 pm Friday - Saturday 11am - 10:30 pm

Gabrielle’s Bridal & Formal

Mon - Fri 8:30am - 6pm Sat 8:30am - Noon Closed Sunday 221 East South St. Dadeville, AL 36853 Accept Most Insuraces And Medicare Part D

BEDS, BATHS &

BARK-ON (next to Home Depot)

PLAYHOUSE CINEMAS

Call Jamie Phillips 256.786.1374

Cherokee Rd. • Alexander City www.playhousecinemas.net

Boarding & Grooming 1546 Hwy. 280 Alex City, AL

256-234-2509

Thursday, December 1, 2016

www.alexcityoutlook.com

The Outlook

Page 7

ClassiÄeds

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

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

classifieds@alexcityoutlook.com public.notices@alexcityoutlook.com classifieds@thewetumpkaherald.com public.notices@thewetumpkaherald.com

The Eclectic Observer

The Tallassee Tribune

The Wetumpka Herald

Page 8

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The Outlook

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Thursday, December 1, 2016

The Outlook

CommunityCalendar Season Johnson

Today is

December 1, 2016 Today’s Event

THE LITTLE DRUMMER BOY: Faith Christian Academy will pres-

ent the musical “The Little Drummer Boy” Thursday, Dec. 1 at 6 p.m. at Faith Temple. The musical features Reid Daughtry, Kylee Stark, John Patrick Stark the 82 voice choir, FCA cheerleaders, dance troupe and the second grade handbell choir. Silent Night will be sung

Page 9

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Submit calendar items: Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/. in Russian, Spanish,Korean and English. There is no charge

Today’s Birthdays

Riley Sanford, Ron Russell, Christa Sewell, Danny Wright and Mariah Edwards

Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy

Express Blowout • Highlight Ombre • Gloss • Color Make-Up • Keratin Adult & Children Hair Cuts Bridal & Bachelorette Packages

2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com

792 Commerce Drive Suite 103 Alexander City, AL

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

256.234.2007 256.749.8804

Many a small thing

has been made

large...

The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow

...with the right kind of advertising.

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

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

Need Insurance?

Call me.

256.234.3481 KarenChannell.com

America Lives Here

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

The Alexander City Hometown Christmas Parade will be Dec. 5 and start at 6 p.m. Lineup will start on Comer Street before coming up Cherokee Road to the Round-About and down Tallapoosa Street.

Now - December 17

FOOD FOR FINES: The Adelia M. Russell Library and Mamie’s Place Children’s Library is accepting nonperishable food items in lieu of library fines.

Now - December 2

ACMS FUNDRAISER: The Alexander City Middle School is having a linen fundraiser through Dec. 2. For sale will be Egyptian cotton twin, full, queen and king sheet sets for $35. See any student, parent or teacher at ACMS. Proceeds benefit ACMS. PEANUT FUNDRAISER: The Alex City Kiwanis is holding a peanut fundraiser. 2.5 pound bags of raw shelled peanuts can be purchased for $5 from Kiwanis members or at River Bank and Trust, Jay Hare CPA, Anytime Fitness, Tapley Appliance, Sixth Street Baptist Church, Caldwell Electronics, Alex City Board of Education and Cloud Nine.

Now - December 25

HOLIDAY TREE OF LIGHTS: The Russell Medical Auxiliary is having its annual Holiday Tree of Lights in the lobby of Russell Medical. For $5 anyone can put a car on the Christmas tree in the lobby in honor or memory of a love one. Proceeds go toward student scholarships and items to be donated to much needed departments of the hospital.

December 3

4004 U.S. Hwy. 431 Anniston, AL 256-820-8000 f: 256-820-3442 p:

Website: www.claytonhomesanniston.com Email: john.slaughter@claytonhomes.com

SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

TRASH WALK: The monthly PATH Trash walk will resume Saturday, Dec. 3 It will start at the Elkahatchee Bridge on Highway 63 at 8:30 a.m. where assignment and supplies will be issued. For more information contact John Thompson at 334-3993289.

December 4

CHURCH ANNIVERSARY: Mt. Zion East Missionary Baptist Church is celebrating its 151st Church Anniversary Sunday, Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. Guest minister will be Rev. M. A. Moss of Reeltown Baptist Church.

Rev. Jimmy Thomas is pastor of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church.

CHRISTMAS CANTATA: Red Ridge United Methodist Church will present its Christmas cantata “Christmas Music” at 9:30 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 4 under the direction of Dr. Kim Walls. The choir composed of church members will sing some of their old favorite selections accompanied by a full orchestra composed of professional, amateur and student musicians from the local area. Featured vocalists will be H.D Price, Toni and Phil Adcock, Diane Miller, P. J. Armour and Susan Grace. Dramatization will feature the Manager Scene, the 3 Wise Men, The Angel Gabriel and the Shepherd Boy. Refreshments and coffee will be served following the concert. Make

your plans to attend.

Red Ridge is located at 8091 County Road 34, Dadeville, 256-825-9820,redridgeumc.org CHURCH ANNIVERSARY: Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church is celebrating its 153rd Church Anniversary Sunday, Dec. 4 at 2 p.m.

Rev. G.H. Pulliam is pastor. Guest minister is Rev. C.L. Daniel, pastor of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Notasulga. Dinner will be served.

December 5

CHRISTMAS PARADE: The Alexander City Hometown Christmas Parade will be Dec. 5 and start at 6 p.m. Lineup will start on Comer Street before coming up Cherokee Road to the Round-About and down Tallapoosa Street.

December 6

DRUG PLAN ENROLLMENT ASSISTANCE: Tallapoosa County and The East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission’s Area Agency on Aging will host a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan enrollment assistance event on Tuesday, Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sportplex Cabin.

To help develop a plan comparison, Medicare recipients will need to bring their Medicare card,along with a complete list of medications they are taking and the dosages. Volunteers will guide them through the selection process and help them get information on the cost of each plan.

People interested in getting a plan comparison will be assisted on a first come, first served basis.

Each counseling sessions will last about 40 minutes. There may be a wait time. Contact East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission at (800) 243-5463 ext.

150 with questions.

December 7

MONTHLY LUNCHEON: The Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends Monthly Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 7 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Bring a covered dish and a small donation.

December 9

HOLIDAY BAKE SALE: The Russell Medical Auxiliary is hosting a holiday bake sale Dec. 9 in the Community Room beginning at 7 a.m. until all items are gone. There will also be poinsettias for sale for $12.

December 10

CHRISTMAS PARADE: The town of Camp Hill will have a Christmas Parade at noon Dec. 10.

CHRISTMAS GALA: New Style Baptist Church is hosting its annual Christmas Gala at the New Style Fellowship Hall Dec. 10 at 6 p.m.

Admission is $20 and includes dinner.

For more information call 256-4964244 or 256-496-4067.

December 11

CHRISTMAS CANTATA: Liberty United Methodist Church Choir is presenting a Christmas Cantata “The First Noel” Sunday, Dec. 11 at 5 p.m. A fellowship meal will follow.

The church is located at 1630 Liberty Road 2.5 miles north of Hackneyville.

CHRISTMAS PARADE: The Dadeville Christmas Parade will start at 3 p.m. Dec. 11 and follow travel Lafayette Street before making its way to the courthouse square.

•Alexander City Outlook •Dadeville Record •Wetumpka Herald •Eclectic Observer •Tallassee Tribune

256.234.4281

December 17

COMMUNITY PRAYER: The Darian Missionary Baptist Church family and prayer teams are offering prayer to the community the third Saturday of each month through December from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot on the corner of Laurel and E Streets across from Stephens Elementary School.

December 18

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT: New Popular Spring Missionary Baptist Church in Dadeville is hosting “Oh Come Let Us Adore Him” Christmas Pageant Sunday, Dec. 18 at 5 p.m.

Everyone is welcome and there will be fruit bags for everyone.

Small Space Advertising Works.

January 8

FASHION, HAIR and COMEDY SHOW: There will be a community talent, fashion, hair and comedy show with guest from as far away as Arkansas Jan. 8 at 3 p.m. at Passion Church on Highway 63 North.

January 17

MEETING: The Artist Association of Central Alabama will meet Jan. 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church.

January 20

SPEECH AND HEARING CLINIC: Auburn University NSSLHA and SAA are having a free speech and hearing screening Friday, Jan. 20 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. No appointment is necessary. All children must be accompanied by parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Services will be provided by the Auburn University Speech and Hearing Clinic Room 1199 Haley Center, Auburn University 36849-5232.

February 11

MISS WINTER: The 2017 Miss Winter Pageant will be Feb. 11 at 2 p.m. at the Dadeville High School Auditorium. Rehearsals will take place Friday, Feb. 10 at 5 p.m. Applications may be picked up at Little Lambs and Ivy Day School or by emailing Sherri Williams at misswinterpageant@gmail. com. There will be a Baby Miss, Tiny Miss, Little Miss, Junior Miss, Teen Miss, Miss, Elite Miss and Miss Winter Princess.

For Consistent Advertising

at Low Rates...

call the Advertising Department

256.234.4281

CATHY HIGGINS SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228

sports@alexcityoutlook.com

Page 10

Thursday, December 1, 2016

www.alexcityoutlook.com

JOE MCADORY Sports Columnist

Auburn desperately needs to resolve QB issues

L

et’s cut to the case – Auburn has a quarterback problem. It’s not one that just appeared overnight or the moment that starter Sean White injured his throwing shoulder at Ole Miss. The problem has existed since the clock struck zero at the 2015 Outback Bowl and Nick Marshall’s eligibility expired. Even greater than the problem itself is that no hopeful remedies resolved the problem.

The quick revelation in September of 2015 that Jeremy Johnson was not cut out for football at this level was a stunning blow for an offense that pinned its hopes to his perceived potential.

Juggling struggling Johnson and oftinjured White, then a freshman, down the stretch of the season resulted in a trip to the Birmingham Bowl.

Auburn took steps to remedy the situation by signing JUCO transfer John Franklin III, a speedster, and Woody Barrett, a prep star from Orlando, Fla. What happened? Franklin attempted just 19 passes in 12 games this season and his only chance to prove himself came Nov. 5 in an iffy half against Vanderbilt. Barrett was redshirted.

Signing Franklin was like purchasing Excedrin Migraine tablets for a headache and looking at the bottle every now and then rather than actually opening it and taking the suggested dosage. Granted, the Tigers appeared to have cured the quarterback dilemma by October when the fully healthy White was leading the SEC in pass efficiency and managing an offense that ran over anything it faced. But once White got hurt, there was no Plan B. When the injured White was bitterly ineffective Nov. 12 at Georgia, Franklin and his legs should have been an option in a second half that saw the Tigers fail to get a first down. When Johnson, who started the Iron Bowl, was bitterly ineffective from the opening snap Saturday at Alabama, Franklin and his legs should have been an option – perhaps as early as the second series of the game. I’m willing to bet Johnson understood the offense far better than Franklin. But understanding and executing, however, are night and day.

Franklin probably didn’t possess the talent folks thought he had when he was signed, but darn it, I would have liked to have seen him get more opportunities to summon his inner Usain Bolt in Athens and Tuscaloosa when White was sidelined, or should have been.

So here we are, one year later and Auburn closes another season with a quarterback question. Where do the Tigers go in 2017? Many offensive weapons return, but it’s hard to make them fire properly when the man taking snaps is either hurt or inefficient.

I like a healthy Sean White. A healthy Sean White gives you a chance to win. He’s accurate, smart and has a good bit of moxxy. But this isn’t touch football. Injuries happen -- often to the person with the ball.

Auburn must enter 2017 with a surething Plan B quarterback and give him the keys to the entire offense, just in case the starter goes down.

High-profile recruit Jarrett Stidham, a Baylor transfer, is reportedly visiting the Auburn campus this weekend and will more than likely choose between the Tigers or Texas A&M. His presence would suddenly give Auburn talented depth behind center. Whether he starts, or sits behind White, the depth issue is resolved.

Should Stidham choose the Aggies (who could blame him? He’s a Texas kid) over Auburn, a relentless effort must be made in the offseason to either land a big-name impact quarterback, or develop unused talent on the roster.

Otherwise, this problem could persist into yet another offseason.

Joe McAdory is communications editor at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business and is the former sports editor at the Opelika-Auburn News.

Submitted / The Outlook

During Sunday’s “Clash of Two Cities” at the Georgia Dome, Dadeville Youth Football League President Michael Taylor (standing, center) gives a pep talk to the 11 and 12-year-old football players from Dadeville and Alexander City. Pictured with him include (standing) Dadeville coach Jeffrey Benton, Buster Coker, coach Benny Snipe and Dadeville athletes Joshua Hutcherson (14), Drell Cox (51), Taylor Humphrey (54) and Will Johns (52).

Dadeville youth win ‘Clash of 2 Cities’ Alexander City and Dadeville football teams play in Georgia Dome

By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor

For the second year since the inception of “Clash of Two Cities,” the 11 and 12-yearold Dadeville youth football team defeated Alexander City.

This time with a score of 20-14.

The annual exhibition game was part of the postgame events following the Atlanta Falcon’s face off with the Arizona Cardinals.

“The kids had a wonderful time,” said Dadeville Youth Football League President Michael Taylor.

The teams were made up of 27 Dadeville youth and 18 from Alex City. Coaching the Alex City team were Jamie Thrower, Cedrick Collins and Jon Owens, while Taylor,

Benny Snipe and Jefferey Bennett coached Dadville.

The teams played in front of a crowd that included a delegation of approximately 250 adults from the area, as well as fans of both the Falcons and Cardinals. According to Taylor, even many Arizona fans stayed to cheer the youth on.

“It was a great experience for them,” he said.

In addition to watching the Falcons play and then follow with their own game on the NFL field, the Dadeville and Alex City youth were part of pre-game festivities, which included being in the Atlanta Falcons parade.

“They got a chance to hang out with Freddie, the Falcons’ mascot,” Taylor said.

Joining the Alex City and

Dadeville game were several youth league games of various age groups from Georgia and Florida.

The now annual event originated last year when former Pittsburg Steelers running back and current Alexander City resident and Dadeville Youth 11 and 12U football coach Snipe sought help from his NFL contacts to make it a reality.

Two years into that reality, Taylor is planning to recognize his athletes’ second win by presenting them with championship rings this weekend during a post-season banquet for the entire Dadeville Youth Football League.

The banquet is set for noon Saturday at McCray Baseball Field in Dadeville. The event will include a lunch of pizza,

hamburgers and hot dogs.

“We’ll also have inflatables for the kids to play on,” Taylor said.

While the banquet will showcase the 110 youth football players and more than 40 cheerleaders coached by Jill Childers, a portion of the afternoon will give special recognition to Dadeville head varsity football coach Richard White, who along with Dadeville head varsity basketball coach Rodney Taylor, helped the youth league by maintaining the football field and supported the youth league by helping the young athletes understand what would be expected of them at the high school level.

“It really did a whole lot for the kids,” Taylor said.

BASKETBALL ROUNDUP

Victory continues to evade Benjamin Russell Wildcats

By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor

The Benjamin Russell varsity boys basketball suffered its third loss Tuesday as the Wildcats fell to Sylacauga on the road 70-65.

The loss brings BRHS to 0-3 for the season and still in search of a first win.

However, Wildcats varsity boys basketball head coach Jeff Hines was proud of how Ben Russell played.

“I thought our kids played extremely hard and it was probably the best we’ve played so far this season,” he said. “It was back and forth the whole night.

But we didn’t make as many plays down the stretch and we should have and Sylacauga did. That was a credit to them.”

The varsity boys next play at home today as Ben Russell hosts Central Clay.

Tip off is 7 p.m.

Benjamin Russell varsity girls lose to Sylacauga

The Lady Wildcats also faltered Tuesday as Benjamin Russell lost to host Sylacauga 70-47.

“We did not have our best game,” said BRHS head varsity girls basketball coach Latreisha Moon.

Benjamin Russell sophomore LaHope Westbrooks led the Lady Wildcats’ scoring with 16 points. She had help from fellow sophomore Jaaliya Caldwelll with nine points and juniors Tayla Stowes and Shay Johnson, who each had five.

The loss drops the Lady Wildcats’ season to 3-3. They next host Central Clay today at 6 p.m.

Central Coosa varsity boys fall to Talladega

The Central Coosa varsity boys basketball team lost to Talladega at home

this season,” he said.

“The team is starting to find themselves and are playing very well together.

“I believe we learned how to play again Tuesday. I am very proud of the effort and how hard we are playing now,” the coach continued.

“I would not trade these kids for anything.”

Central Coosa next hosts LaFayette on Friday in a 4:30 p.m. tip off.

Lady Cougars beat Talladega

The Lady Cougars fared better on the home court Tuesday than their male counterparts as Central Coosa defeated Talledga 69-65.

The win brings the Lady Cougars’ season to 1-1 .

Central Coosa next Cliff Williams / The Outlook plays LaFayette at Benjamin Russell sophomore LaHope Westbrooks aims for the basket home Friday. Tip off while evading defense during the Lady Wildcats’ home game against Jeff is 6 p.m.

Tuesday by the narrow margin of 62-61.

Central Coosa senior forward Tyius We are eager to keep you updated Evans led the Cougars’ scoring with 20 with timely coverage of sporting events. points.

Coaches, please share the results of The loss drops the Cougars to 1-4 for your games with Sports Editor Cathy the season. However, Central Coosa head Higgins after the event by emailing them varsity basketball coach Shane Smith is to cathy.higgins@alexcityoutlook.com, proud of his team’s performance. texting them to 251-213-5343 or calling “Talladega is a very good team and 256-234-4281, ext. 228 and leaving a we played the best we have played so far voicemail.