Dec 23, 2016 Alex City Outlook

OUTLOOK’S COACH OF THE YEAR

OPINION: A THANK YOU IS A GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT, PAGE 4.

FRIDAY

THE

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

Sports, page 10

December 23, 2016 Vol. 124, No. 257 www.alexcityoutlook.com

Officials aim to keep roadways safe

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said there would be an increase in State Troopers on the highways over the holidays, and local law enforcement officials said they too are preparing and shared some dos and don’ts for the road.

Alexander City and Dadeville police said there would at least be an increase of patrols as the two holidays near.

Officials from both departments said they would be on the lookout for signs of impaired driving.

“One of the things we really look for is drunk driving,” said DPD Chief David Barbour.

But it was not the only thing he said they watch for, adding aggressive driving and driving without seatbelts to the list.

Alexander City Police Department’s Captain James Easterwood said their would be extra patrols “for possibly impaired driving,” over the holidays.

Tallapoosa County Sheriff Jimmy Abbett said his

office would maintain current patrols, and would be available to assist, “in any way we can.”

Abbett emphasized the need to travel with a plan in mind and said to pre-plan the trip, the route and to stay in contact with friends and family about time frames of departure and arrival.

“Be defensive driving any time you’re actually driving,” said Abbett.

He also listed off the staples safe driving, stating what drivers should already be doing behind the wheel.

See TRAFFIC • Page 3

Local business owners give reviews on holiday traffic downtown

Comer United Methodist to host annual Christmas dinner Sunday

By COREY ARWOOD Staff Writer

A number of local business owners have reported higher volumes of customers this holiday season, while others said sales had been in line with recent years and a few said things had somewhat slowed.

Despite what their take was there seemed to be a bustle of people in the stores, on the sidewalks and especially on the streets of downtown Alexander City Wednesday.

With each business owner came a different perspective on the season, as they gave their early year-end review on what was either helping or hurting their stores.

Some were so swept up with customers they could not be bothered to talk about the issues, while others gladly spoke about their good fortunes or misfortunes this year.

A small group chose not to comment at all.

But for those who did there seemed to be a consensus that even if one store was not seeing a See SHOPPING • Page 3

59 48

Lake Levels

483.53 Reported on 12/22/16 @ 5 p.m.

LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443

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

54708 90050

BUSINESS BOOMING Above, “It’s great, I don’t have to wrap it,” Bryant Ladson said as Alabama St. Makers Market’s Elizabeth Roberts wrapped a gift for his girlfriend Thursday. I know how to duck tape almost anything else. This is a lifesaver.” Left, customers shop at Carlise’s Thursday afternoon.

Many locals are taking advantage of locally owned businesses.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Low

Lake Martin

6

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

For 13 years, members of Comer United Methodist have been gathering on Christmas Day to serve a meal to the community.

“This part of our Christmas,” Louise Pritchard said. “We look forward to it, the entire church looks forward to it.”

Pritchard says it has become a new tradition for her and her husband Donnie.

“Our child is out of the house with his own family,” Pritchard said. “We do the Christmas dinner then we have our family Christmas later in the day with him and his family.”

Pritchard explained that a group at the church came up with the idea some 13 years ago.

“We were sitting around in Sunday School about Thanksgiving about 13 years ago,” Pritchard said.

“We were talking about what we could do to feed the community and just came up with it.”

The meal is done by volunteers using donations.

“It is all volunteer,” Pritchard said. “We are doing real well this year and are not in need of anything at the moment.”

Pritchard does ask one thing See CHRISTMAS • Page 3

Dadeville Council questions impact of Mott’s Woodyard fire

Today’s

Weather High

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

8

A month after the sky around Dadeville was glowing orange on Thanksgiving night from a fire at Mott’s Woodyard – the fire is still burning.

Just driving around the North Loop, one can see smoke still coming from the mounds of mulch created by contractor removing timber from the Sabal Trail Pipeline right of way. At a recent Dadeville City Council meeting, the fire and efforts to control it were discussed

as Dadeville Fire Chief Keith Wilkerson gave his monthly report to the council.

“In November we had a busy month, we had 22 calls,” Wilkerson told the council. “A lot of them were dealing with the fire on the North Loop.”

Wilkerson explained to the council that he has been meeting with the contractor.

“I have met with the guy that has stuff piled up over there and about See DADEVILLE • Page 3

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Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Dadeville city council discussed efforts to control the fire smoldering at Mott’s Woodyard since November.

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Page 2

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Young son confused by sex ready to have ‘the talk’

Saturday

69 53 Low

High Mostly Cloudy

Sunday

72 57 Low

High Mostly sunny

Staff

Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom 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 Alethia Russell Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 alethia.russell@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Donna Jones Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 donna.jones@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Advertising Sales, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Advertising Sales, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) Kenneth Boone The Outlook is published five times Photography and a week, Tuesday through Saturday a commercial web mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, printing press.

Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.

Postal

Information

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

Friday, December 23, 2016

The Outlook

© 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.

DEAR ABBY: I divorced last year after 14 years of marriage.

We have a 10-year-old son together. While staying with his father on weekends, he has overheard his father and new girlfriend having sex. It has happened a couple of times, and each time my son comes home in tears. His father has promised to not let it happen again.

My son is now worried that I’m doing the same thing, and he is treating me like I am the child and he’s the parent. He seems to think that people have sex only to have babies, and he is worried.

Do I need to get him some kind of counseling, or will this get better as he gets older and matures? I’m angry that his father didn’t use his head before choosing his actions, and now I’m the one being punished for it. -- TOO MUCH FOR MY SON DEAR TOO MUCH: If your son hasn’t had “the talk” with you or his father, it should start

DEAR ABBY Advice

immediately so he knows that having sex doesn’t always mean the result will be babies.

And while you’re at it, tell your son that you are not planning to have any more children anytime soon, so he has no reason to worry about you.

DEAR ABBY: I volunteer at a local hospital. We were told in training not to come to work if we were sick. One volunteer I work with didn’t heed what he was told and showed up last week sneezing and coughing.

When I asked if he wanted to go home, he declined. Although I cleaned his workstation with an antiseptic, a few days later I came down with the worst cold I have had in years.

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.

I take care not to do anything to jeopardize my good health, but I had no control over this situation. I think it is extremely thoughtless of sick people to expose co-workers to their germs. Please, people, stay home when you are sick!

-- STILL RECOVERING IN OKLAHOMA DEAR STILL RECOVERING: I hear you loud and clear, and I agree. Your co-worker should be ashamed of himself. If he infected you, I can only wonder how many of the patients were put at risk or infected. As soon as you saw your co-worker had come to work sick, you should have informed your supervisor. If you had, it might have saved you some misery.

DEAR ABBY: My so-called boyfriend asked me to marry him. The problem is, he’s already married to a woman he married for financial reasons. He doesn’t believe in divorce, so where does that

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 open to the public. n Dadeville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. with a pre-meeting at 5:30 p.m. in city hall. n Daviston City Council meets the third Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the Daviston Fire Department. n Goldville Town Council meets the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the town hall. n Goodwater City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month.

Meetings are held 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

leave me? Yes, I love him, but I feel hurt and my heart is heavy. He doesn’t know that I know all of this, and if he did, he would probably be upset. What should I do? -HURTING HEART DEAR HURTING HEART: I know your heart is heavy. Any woman’s heart would be if she found herself in your situation.

If your boyfriend’s wife knew what he was proposing, I’ll bet SHE would believe in divorce.

Tell him to get lost, and run in the opposite direction!

Whether it “upsets” him is irrelevant. The last thing you need is a cheater. He will never marry you because he’s already married -- to his meal ticket.

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.

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 8258490 for more information.

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

Demolition Sunset The snail’s pace of demolition of many of the buildings on the former Russell Corp. campus has definitely created eyesores that have drawn anger from city leaders and residents. But for about 15 minutes Thursday night, the remaining shell of half a building along Lee Street served as an ideal prop for an incredible December sunset that glowed like cornbread in buttermilk framed by the western sky over Alexander City.

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Friday, December 23, 2016

Shopping

continued from page 1

significant resurgence in sales, foot traffic was on the rise downtown.

For Jim and Laura Cotney owners of Cotney Jewelers both seemed to be the case.

“It seems like consumers are a lot more positive this year than what they’ve been being,” said Jim Cotney.

“We’ve been a little bit more active than the past previous years.”

He said the quality of neighboring businesses were one reason for the increased interest.

They said there was usually an increase in purchases in general around Christmas, but said it was “just better” this year.

“Jim’s having to work hard to keep his diamond line caught up because people are coming in buying merchandise,” said Laura Cotney.

She said they had been at their location since 1979, possibly making them the most senior storeowners downtown.

A few stores down along the side of the storefront shopping area facing Broad Street, the longtime owner of a Christian bookstore said the season had driven purchases of specific items.

She said her increase came by way of a spike in the sells of Children’s Bible and holiday music.

Jackie Strong owner of For Heaven’s Sake said her business had been at that location for going on 17 years, making her another veteran storeowner of the area.

“I’ve noticed more people,” said Strong. “I think I would attribute it to the restructuring of downtown, people want to see what’s going on downtown.”

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce CEO Ed Collari said it had been an active effort of the Chamber to create awareness of local businesses and drive traffic into the retailers both downtown and throughout Alexander City.

“Our downtown is kind of the heartbeat of the community,” said Collari. “I just think there’s a overall, specifically to downtown, your starting to see a resurgence. It recently just picked up a whole lot more.”

He said some of it was a result of the Chamber’s efforts with its Shop Local campaign in December along

with the recently held Holiday Open House.

Collari mentioned a number of new businesses to the area, and some that were on the way plus the different projects to streets and buildings that were coming to a close, all of which he said would further increase access and appeal to downtown.

For one businessowner access was a consistent complaint she said she heard from her customers.

Laura Yoder owner of Ooh La La Creations said otherwise for her new embroidery and heat transfer fashion shop her first season there had “been pretty good.”

“Gosh we really need to do something about this parking, because I’ve had people come in and say well I want to stop but there’s nowhere to park,” said Yoder. “But business has been good you know, we don’t just count on foot traffic we do online sales too and it’s been as good as the foot traffic.”

Coffee Korner Owner Tony Blanco is another first-year business owner downtown.

He said the holidays had positively affected the coffee shop, which he co-owns along with another twenty something entrepreneur, Kurt Middleton.

“The holidays is just a different type of a different atmosphere for a coffee shop especially,” said Blanco.

He said the drink orders had changed, and the people ordering were new as well with more shoppers travelling there from out of town.

A local restorer and converter of films and photos, Candace Dessert, of Timeless Restorations in the Shoppes of Queen’s Attic said she regularly gets “slammed” on the holidays with the unconventional gift requests.

“There’s been actually more foot traffic than I’ve seen in the past which is a good thing,” said Dessert.

However a few miles down Madison and Cherokee roads, Cam Caldwell of Caldwell Electronics and Radioshack said he felt the local economy had slowed somewhat and said the weather was also a factor in where people buy.

“If the weather’s cold people don’t travel as much so they stay at home

Dadeville what they going to do to control the smoke. He is supposed to get back with me.”

Dadeville Mayor Wayne Smith said he wants to make sure that the city is not left with a mess.

“We still have a little smoldering over there,” Smith said.

“We want to see that he stays on top it and it does not become a nuisance. The smoke has died down.”

The smoke may have died down, but driving around the North Loop more piles could be smoldering as evidence by smoke coming from the piles of mulch on the opposite side of the tracks

Page 3

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The Outlook

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Above, siblings Emily and Kyle Ray look for a gift for their mother at Carlise’s Thursday afternoon.

“She is one of the hardest people to shop for,” Emily said. Below, a customer browses clothing items at Cloud Nine Thursday afternoon. The shop plans to be opened Christmas Eve.

and shop a little bit more but when it’s warmer they travel which means they go out of town and they buy out of town,” said Caldwell.

However Caldwell said his hot selling items this year were drones and

continued from page 1

form the fire.

Smith wants the contractor to take the lead in making sure that the fire is completely extinguished while council members want to know who is covering the costs associated with fighting the fire.

“I appreciate the fire and police departments for what they did out there,” Council member Roy Mathis said. “There were also four gentlemen from the forestry commission that spent there Thanksgiving out there. They did a good job.”

“Is that company going to be responsible for water use?”

Council Member Dick Harrelson asked.

“There has been some discussion about billing them for it but we are still kind of talking about it,” Smith said. “But in addition to the water there were a lot of man hours out there.

“We are asking him to get it completely out and what are the measures he will use in the future to prevent it from happening again. It is my understanding that they are winding up this section and starting to move on – but he is not going to leave a mess for the citizens of Dadeville.”

Christmas though.

“We are trying to get a head count,” Pritchard said. “We asked that if you want to come to pick up a ticket at the Salvation Army or at the Nutrition Center. But you do not have to have one to come.”

The meal will be served at Comer United Methodist Church in Alexander

cell phones.

Ultimately the Chamber’s Ed Collari said spending local kept money local with the shop owners, and the city projects funded in part by taxpayers.

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City from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Pritchard is holding onto the menu for Christmas Day but said it will still be good.

“We will have a meat and vegetable,” Pritchard said. “There will be a couple of other things along with a dessert. It will be a good hot meal.”

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“Don’t drink and drive, drive safely buckle up for safety,” Abbett said. “Obey the traffic laws, if you are going to drink have a designated driver.”

According to an ALEA report, during Christmas and New Year’s of 2015 there were close to 500 arrests made by Troopers for DUI. In the report Secretary of Law Enforcement Stan Stabler was quoted as saying, “Less than a month ago,

we announced Troopers investigated 14 traffic deaths during the five-day Thanksgiving travel period. Yes, 14 deaths – including one 12-year-old,” He went on to say, “During the twoweek holiday traveling period for last year’s Christmas and New Year’s, Troopers investigated 26 traffic deaths.”

Stabler concluded with, “Again, we implore motorists to help us make our roadways safer for everyone.”

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MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213

editor@alexcityoutlook.com

EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Page 4

Opinion

Our View

A ‘thank you’ is a great holiday gift

W

e often hear the term holiday rush this time of year.

With the hustle and bustle of trying to get everything done before Christmas and all that comes with it, it’s easy to lose sight of what is most important.

Instead of making sure we have enough presents and being overtaken by the commercialism of the holiday season, it should be a time to step back, give thanks for all the good that’s come to us.

Far too often we do forget to thank those that have helped us along the way throughout the year. Many times, we try and do that with gifts rather than just a simple “thank you” or taking the time to express, in words, what someone means to us rather than what is gift-wrapped in a box.

It is the time of the year when we should be kinder and nicer to those that may not be as fortunate as we might be individually.

Tallapoosa County has shown it has a big heart and we are glad to call it home.

Yes, Tallapoosa Publishers has plenty to be thankful for. So today we pause and thank you all.

We here at the Alexander City Outlook thank you for taking the time to be involved in and read our newspapers.

We appreciate everything you do to make this truly “your community newspaper.” Whether it’s advertising, writing letters to the editor or opening your doors for us to do a story on something you feel is important, we appreciate your time and ideas.

From all the staff at Tallapoosa Publishers, we truly appreciate you and wish you a very Merry Christmas.

Outlook The

Friday, December 23, 2016

God wants repentance not reformation

O

K, I’ll be the first to admit that I didn’t keep any of my hard thought out resolutions from last year.

I didn’t lose weight, read any of the great classics, hike the Andes, bring world peace or buy a DVD of “Lonesome Dove.” Actually I added a few pounds, read a couple of comic books, walked to the refrigerator a lot and watched this classic western as a rerun on TV. All-in-all it wasn’t a stellar performance on my part.

So here it is 2016 and I’m faced with the dilemma of making some positive commitments toward this New Year.

I wonder who first thought up the idea of making New Year’s resolutions. It ought to be enough that we lived through the last year; much less, start off a new year with undue pressure and expectations.

Before I can even make a resolution and fail to keep it I have a guilt trip. Maybe I ought to resolve not to feel guilty over failed resolutions. Now that has possibilities for all of us, doesn’t it?

Enough of the philosophical debate I need to get on with my 2016 resolutions.

First of all I resolve to go to church every Sunday. I know as a preacher that isn’t much of a resolution, but I thought I would start off with something I could keep. Plus it might

DR. GERALD HALLMARK Guest Columnist

inspire some of my slackers to follow suit with the same commitment.

Secondly, I resolve to not to pick on my wife in my newspaper column. Naw, forget that because it would take away too much good material. On top of that folks would think I’ve gone soft and sentimental in my old age. I’ll have to keep writing about that sweet lady so everyone will know how we are getting along.

OK, in the third place I resolve to be nicer to deacons this year. I really don’t know why, but the older I get the more mellow I have become toward these boys, or it might be that I know I’m too old to fight and can’t afford to antagonize folks like I used too.

Fourthly, I resolve to slow down and smell the roses.

The fact is I’m slowing down anyway and this resolution will give me a fig leaf to hide behind. As far as smelling the roses they stir up my allergies and make me sneeze. So I’ll just slow down and act like I’m smelling the roses.

For my fifth resolution I think I will try stay healthy this year. In 2016 I had two surgeries, three drug reactions, twisted my ankle and was blessed and enjoyed a host of ailments common to older men. Instead of carrying a picture of me in her wallet my sweet wife carries a picture of my x-rays around with her.

Finally, I am resolving in 2017 to try new things. Not things like broccoli, asparagus or yucky things to eat, but adventurous things that men do. I’ll try and watch TV without the remote control one day a week, walk at least a mile every month or so, shave on Saturday morning and not buy anything from the Cabalas catalog before Christmas. Boy, that is a tough resolution.

Everyone wants resolutions that have all intents and purposes to reform their lifestyle.

Resolutions are good in a social setting, but in a spiritual context we have to understand that God wants us to come under conviction for our failures and repent. A resolution to reform and do better is not the same as repentance and acceptance by God grace. Interesting comparison isn’t it?

Dr. Gerald Hallmark is a retired minister who lives in Alexander City. His column appears here each Friday.

Communication with elected officials is the key to good government. To let your most local representatives know how you feel about state or local matters, contact any of the following.

Governor Robert Bentley represents the state of Alabama and its 67 counties. He was elected to office on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334-2427100. His office is located at the State Capitol at 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama.

Kay Ivey is the Lt. Governor of the state of Alabama. Ivey was elected Lt. Governor in 2010. The Office of the Lieutenant Governor is located in Suite 725 of the Alabama State House in Montgomery, Alabama.

Robert Bentley

Kay Ivey

Luther Strange was elected Alabama’s 49th Attorney General first elected in 2010, and serves as the State’s chief law enforcement officer. He can be reached at 334-242-7300, and his office is located at 501 Washington Avenue, Montgomery.

Mark Tuggle (R) represents the 81st District covering Coosa, Chilton and Tallapoosa counties. He can be reached by phone at 256-392-2006 or by email at tughd81@gmail.com. His office is located at 110 Calhoun Street, Suite 108, Alexander City.

Luther Strange

Quote

“Rare as is true love, true friendship is rarer.”

– Jean de La Fontaine

Today’s

Scripture

“Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do.”

– Ephesians 6:1

alexcityoutlook.com

Daily Poll Wednesday Question: Should an alley along Main Street be closed to automobile traffic?

Yes – 36 No – 24

Friday’s Question: Will you be traveling for the holiday this weekend?

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

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

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Today’s

Letters to the Editor

Reader responds to syndicated columnist’s views

Dear Editor, The Wednesday, Dec. 21 whining editorial from Will Durst validated that America is still divided. Hillary prepared for a coronation. After all it was her turn, wasn’t it? Her many scandals and a campaign that offered nothing new exposed a flawed candidate.

Political hacks on both sides did their best to slam Donald Trump on his every word, but he proved to be a fighter.

Hillary showed her true self when she arrogantly called Trump supporters a basket of desperates and a basket of irredeemable deporables. You know racist, bigots, sexist, ugly words that Democrat hacks use against opposition. They label you and dismiss you.

Well, along comes Donald Trump with no history of these bigoted cheap shots unlike the

democrats racist history.

62 million voters decided to vote for change again hoping this time we will get real change. President elect Trump has shown he is willing to control cost over runs on government contracts (our tax dollars), control our broken southern border and actually work with business to save American jobs. Wow what a novel idea, finally a president who wants to put, We the People first.

Mr. Will Durst seeks to disrespect Trump voters by calling us Trumpeteers. Well Mr. Durst, we have been called every name in the book and our choice for president won.

So stop whining and call us winners. Tens of millions of real democrats are not whining and just want America to succeed.

Will Durst seems to be

unaware of the real problems average Americans face every day.

Donald Trump exposed the ugly realities of inner city problems, failing schools and infrastructure, heroin epidemic and more.

It’s out there but Washington chose to ignore it as they got richer. Will Durst and haters on both sides need to stop whining and accept that real change is coming.

All Americans should want us to live a good life and leave a great country for future generations. If Trump succeeds, we all win.

Time to turn the page and work together to make it happen.

Merry Christmas everyone.

Annette Lynch Alexander City

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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Mark Tuggle

Tom Whatley represents the 27th District covering Lee, Russell and Tallapoosa County.

He was elected to the Alabama Senate on Tom Whatley Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334-242t7865. His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn.

Follow The Outlook on the Internet on our website or on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Log on to http://www.alexcityoutloook.com.

There you will be able to view stories and multimedia posted by The Outlook. You can also click on the Facebook link to join The Outlook’s fan club or click on the Twitter link to start receiving tweets on your phone as we post updates. You can also subscribe to our RSS (Rich Site Summary) feed on the Outlook’s home page. Check it out today.

Friday, December 23, 2016

The Outlook

CommunityCalendar SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

Today’s Anniversaries

Today is

December 23, 2016

Chad and Fran Cassiano, Gladys and Bill Sallas, Morris and Joan Morgan and Donald and Gloria Howard are celebrating their anniversary.

Page 5

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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/.

Today’s Birthdays

Bobby Blake, Gladys Milam, Penny Benson, Rosa Hawkins, Avis Barker, Tom Rogers, Dorothy Bishop, Jean Adams and Johnna Walker are celebrating their birthday.

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

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The Benjamin Russell Dance Line cheers the Lady Wildcats on during a recent home basketball game.

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.

COMMUNITY FEEDING: The Alexander City Schools Nutrition Program is hosting holiday lunches at Stephens Elementary School Cafeteria through Dec. 23 from 11 a.m. to noon.

Meals are free for children and $3.30 for adults.

YES I CAN: Teresa Moten is hosting her Yes I Can mentoring class at Stephens Elementary Cafeteria through Dec. 23 from 10 a.m. to noon.

December 24

The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow

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

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

Need Insurance?

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CANDLELIGHT SERVICE: Comer United Methodist Church will hold its Christmas Candlelight service with Communion on Christmas Eve with services beginning at 5 p.m.

December 25

CHRISTMAS DINNER: Comer United Methodist Church is hosting a Christmas Dinner Dec. 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The public is invited to have a hot meal and fellowship. Tickets can be picked up at the nutrition center and at the Salvation Army. You do not need a ticket. For more information call 256234-7831.

December 31

WATCH NIGHT SERVICE: St. John AME Church is hosting Watch Night Services Dec. 31. Food will be served at 10 p.m. and worship starts at 10:45 p.m.

January 3

USHER MEETING: The Early Rose District Usher meeting is Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 5 p.m. at the Early Rose District Center.

January 4

MONTHLY LUNCHEON: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have their Monthly Luncheon on January 4, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Please bring a covered dish and a small donation. There will be no Family Game Night Bingo in December.

January 7

256.234.3481 KarenChannell.com

How to add a calendar item: Participate in your

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

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

January 14

MLK PRAYER BREAKFAST: The Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Prayer breakfast will be Jan. 14 at 8 a.m. at Stephen’s Elementary School Gym Tickets are $10.

January 16

Now - December 23

Call 256-234-4281 or stop by our ofÚce at 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL

guest from as far away as Arkansas Jan. 8 at 3 p.m. at Passion Church on Highway 63 North.

BABY BOOT CAMP: Russell Medical is offering a one-day Baby Boot Camp. This four-hour childbirth course is designed for busy couples to better understand pregnancy and the birthing process and is taught by labor and delivery nurse Jennifer Shurette, R.N. You can register by calling Community Relations at 256-329-7145.

ANNUAL FAMILY GATHERING: The 10th Annual Family Gathering of the Norris, Holley and Edwards families will be Jan. 7 from noon to 5 p.m. Bring a dish. For more information contact Linda Norris Nix at 256-786-9279.

TRASH WALK: The January PATH Trash Walk is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 7. and will meet at Strand Park at 8:30 a.m. to receive supplies and assignments. Volunteers can pick an area of their choice or be directed to roads where litter is a constant problem.

For additional information contact John Thompson at 334-399-3289.

January 8

FASHION, HAIR and COMEDY SHOW: There will be a community talent, fashion, hair and comedy show with

MLK PARADE AND PROGRAM: The Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration parade and program will be Jan. 16 with the parade at 9 a.m. and program at 11 a.m. at Stephens Elementary School Gym.

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.

January 21

FLEA MARKET: Sistas for a Cause are hosting a flea market Jan. 21 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Cooper Community Center. Vendors are needed. Spaces are $20 and include a table.

Please call 256-329-6799 for more information.

January 22

HISTORICAL SOCIETY: The Tallapoosee Historical Society will hold its quarterly meeting on Sunday, Jan. 22 at 2 p.m. The meeting will be held at Beulah Baptist Church, 5891 Lovelady Road, Dadeville, AL. Troy Turner, Editor of Opelika-Auburn News will be the speaker. There is no admission and the public is invited.

January 28

PASTORS MEETING: Take the City Lake Martin is providing a meal to all local pastors, ministry leaders and city leaders Jan. 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the cabin in the Sportsplex. For more information call 256-307-8099.

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.

February 18

CLAY CLASSIC: The Ronald E Koon Sporting Clay Classic is in its 11th year of providing a fun filled day for avid shooters to help support our local Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area. The event will be held at the Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Club in Montgomery, Alabama starting at9 a.m. on Feb. 18, 2017. Team of four is $600.

Team of two is $300 and a one-man team $100. Lunch, shells, goodie bags and door prizes given to each participant Call 256-234-4757 to sign up today or email bgcreynolds@gmail.com

Ongoing Events RECYCLING: The Alexander City Recycling Facility is located at the Public Works Department at 824 Railey Road. All materials should be dropped off behind the green storage shed on the Public Works lot. The facility is always open for unassisted drop off. Assistance with drop off is available between 7:00 am until 3:30 p.m.

Monday thru Friday. Please call 256409-2020 for more information.

WOMEN’S MEETING: Victory Temple Holiness Church in Dadeville is hosting a women’s meeting the first Sunday of every month. Men are invited too.

AWANA: Wayside Baptist Church hosts Awana Sundays from 4:40 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for ages three to high school.

For more information contact George Gardin, student minister, at 864-5800343.

VOLUNTEER: Southern Care Hospice is seeking volunteers. Please call Lizz Gillenwaters at 256-234-1134 or 256-749-3717 for more information.

WOMAN MEETING: Every first Sunday, Victory Temple Holiness Church hosts a women’s meeting, at 237 Aster St. in Dadeville. Everyone is invited. The meeting starts at 2 p.m.

READY TO WORK: Ready to Work is a FREE jobs skills training program offered at Central Alabama Community College Career Center. Classes meet Monday through Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. until noon. Completion of the program depends on the skill level of the individual. For more information contact Elaine Balint, instructor, at 256215-4496 (leave message) or ebalint@ cacc.edu.

OFFICE CAREERS: The Office Careers Technology program is funded by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and was created to help dislocated workers learn new employable skills. To qualify for the programs be a dislocated worker (layoff) or a low-income family. Anyone interested in the classes should contact the Alexander City Career Center @ 256-215-4494 and ask about the WIA program. Most all dislocated workers automatically qualify for financial assistance. The program is 52 weeks and is open entry/open exit. Students learn at their own pace in a non-traditional classroom setting. Classes begin when students are approved and they may leave when they receive any or all of the certificates offered. Classes are Monday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m. (with a lunch break). All textbooks and class materials are supplied. Certificates available are receptionist, inventory clerk, data entry clerk, administrative assistant, accounting office clerk, medical office clerk, legal office clerk.

COMPUTER LAB: The new and improved computer lab at Cooper Community Center is now open to the community Monday thru Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. LaBrawnski Salter is the new lab facilitator. You can check email, browse the internet, build a resume, complete a project or homework, research, job search and some social media.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY: Celebrate Recovery is a Christ-centered ministry designed to help hurting people. It is made up of regular folks who are on a journey toward wholeness; seeking recovery from life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups. We meet every Monday at Vertical Point Church, 860 Airport Drive, Alex City. We begin with dinner at 5:45, followed by large group at 6:15 & small groups at 7:15.

Childcare is provided. Everyone is welcome. For more info, call Mike at 256-496-4664.

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Page 6

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The Outlook

Friday, December 23, 2016

University of Alabama’s Top 8 ‘Educated Guesses’ for 2017 For the 36th consecutive year, The University of Alabama’s Office of Media Relations offers predictions from faculty experts for the coming year. See our list of the Top 8 “Educated Guesses” for 2017:

Trump, Congress Won’t Mix

Despite a Republican-controlled Congress, President-elect Donald Trump will find obtaining common ground with them difficult, predicts Dr. Joseph Smith, associate professor and chair of the political science department at The University of Alabama. This is partially because unified party control of the national government never works as smoothly as many people expect, and partially because Trump is outside the mainstream of the Republican Party and American politics in general. Trump’s lawmaking agenda will be stymied, the UA political scientist predicts.

– Dr. Joseph Smith

Supreme Court Nominee Could Seek to Weaken Press Freedom

Whomever President-elect Donald Trump selects as his nominee for the Supreme Court, the person could possibly help him weaken freedom of the press protections by strengthening libel and slander prosecutions, predicts Dr. Allen Linken, assistant professor of political science at The University of Alabama. Look for the nominee to also potentially seek to weaken freedom of assembly by restricting dissent by groups and freedom of expression by criminalizing flag-burning. Citizens found to be misusing any of these freedoms could, Linken speculates, lose their citizenship.

– Dr. Allen Linken

Modified Medical Diets Push to the Forefront of Diet Trends

2017 will be the “year of gut health” when it comes to specialty diet trends, predicts a University of Alabama nutritionist. Though natural and organic will continue to stay relevant, modified medical diets, such as the FODMAP diet (fermentable, oligo-, di-, mono-saccharides and polyols) may prove to be just as trendy as going gluten-free, says Sheena Gregg. On the restaurant

scene, traditional breakfast items will get an overhaul, as well as an overwhelming increase in vegetarian “comfort food” options.

– Sheena Gregg

Fashion will have more fun in 2017. Brighter colors will be abundant, with all shades of pink being the standout at most runway shows, as well as novelty prints and stripes, says Brian Taylor, an instructor in The University of Alabama’s clothing, textiles and interior design department. The 1980s will also be on trend with an emphasis on the shoulder, puffy sleeves and a boxy, looser silhouette.

– Brian Taylor

For-Profit Education Could Rise

Twitter Practices to Continue into First Year of Trump Presidency

Since the Ronald Reagan era, the tendency for presidents of both parties has been to be as deliberate, strategic, controlled and gaffe-avoidant as possible.

Speeches and statements have been thoroughly vetted through a centralized process. When presidents ventured into spontaneity, within minutes the rest of the team would be there to clarify, spin, reassure and in drastic cases – such as factual errors – retract. Dr. Stephen A. Borrelli, professor of political science at The University of Alabama, predicts that Trump will break this formulated communications strategy with a trial and

Domestic Violence Intervention Center services five counties EDITOR’S NOTE: The United Way of the Lake Martin Area partners with 27 agencies that serve the local area in a variety of important ways. Each year, United Way holds a major fundraising campaign to raise money this is disbursed among those agencies. For the next several weeks, The Outlook will briefly profile each of those 27 agencies. Today, the Domestic Violence Intervention Center is featured.

All Shades Pink, Puffy Sleeves to be Fashion Standouts

Even as education policy has taken an increasingly conservative tack over the past 20 years, the nomination of Betsy DeVos as secretary of education radically accelerates this direction, says a University of Alabama educator.

Under DeVos, education is likely to become much less “public,” enriching for-profit educational management organizations, says Dr. John Petrovic, professor of educational leadership, policy and technology studies at The University of Alabama. This will come, he predicts, with the all too familiar results of market-driven education schemes: increased stratification along socioeconomic, racial and ethnic lines with little to no closure of the achievement gap.

– Dr. John Petrovic

Friday, December 23, 2016

File / The Outlook

error approach that includes outbursts of spontaneous and seemingly tangential messages, followed by periods of apparent thoughtful, strategic message control. Trump and his team will want to see if his Twitter approach, which apparently was less damaging to his campaign than many speculated, will survive the transition to governing and the presidency.

– Dr. Stephen Borrelli

if implemented, will not affect price or quality of health insurance in the ACA exchanges or elsewhere.

– Dr. Lawrence “Lars” Powell

Trump’s Presidency to Impact Civil-Military Affairs

Though Trump’s presidential campaign was distinctly against military knowledge, his administration nominations are packed with military leadership. For secretary of defense, Obamacare to Undergo Only Subtle he’s selected retired Gen. James Mattis. For national security advisor, Changes he’s chosen retired Lt. Gen. Michael A combination of executive and Flynn. And for secretary of Homeland legislative actions will make subtle Security, his nominee is retired Gen. changes in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, commonly known John Kelly. Dr. Allen Linken, assisas “Obamacare,” predicts Dr. Lawrence tant professor of political science at The University of Alabama, predicts Powell, director of The University that Trump’s military-heavy cabinet of Alabama’s Center for Insurance Information and Research. Such changes will possibly impact civil-military affairs. He said it bears watching to will move toward preferences stated by see if those retired military officials President-elect Trump on the campaign can exert power and serve the executrail; however, premium subsidies for tive instead of becoming entrenched low-income families will not decrease in a military mindset that causes the substantially, Powell predicts. If cost sharing provisions are strengthened and/ checks implemented by requiring civilian leadership over the military or prices become more transparent, the to be co-opted. rate of premium increases will moder– Dr. Allen Linken ate or reverse. Legislation allowing health insurers to sell across state lines,

Who and what is the Domestic Violence Intervention Center (DVIC)?

The Domestic Violence Intervention Center (DVIC), formerly East Alabama Task Force for Battered Women, was incorporated as a 501(c)3 non-profit agency in 1980, with its shelter, Safehouse, accepting its first victim in 1981.

DVIC is the only organization of its kind in a five-county service area and has gained the respect of victims, the public, and law enforcement for providing quality care to victims of domestic violence What programs and services does the DVIC provide?

DVIC has sheltered 4,546 women and children and has answered 13,107 crisis calls from its inception through 2015. During 2015, DVIC answered 358 crisis calls and housed 107 women and children, accounting for 1,725 bednights.

This figure represents 52 families. Staff provided 368.75 hours of individual counseling. Forty community support group sessions were held for 56 hours of service during 2015. A total of 29 court and legal advocacy clients were seen, totaling 37 hours.

What are DVIC’s hours, and how can it be contacted, or utilized?

DIVC provides a 24-hour crisis line, confidential emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, referrals to agencies and organizations that assist victims, support group, and a school based violence prevention program.

What area does the DVIC serve?

Five counties: Chambers, Lee, Macon, Randolph and Tallapoosa What is the mission of the DVIC? The overall mission of DVIC is to eliminate violence in the lives of women and children in the five county area we serve by providing direct services to domestic violence victims which in term will make them less likely to return to the abuser.

The Outlook

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Page 7

CAC gives info on how to apply for energy assistance gram is set to begin taking appointments January 3, 2017. Appointments for senior citizens age 60 or older were taken December 12-21.

Appointments for the general public will began January 3, 2017.

“It’s an important program for the clients,” said David Boleware, Executive Director. Home energy costs tend to be higher in the winter, we assist low-income households in helping to meeting their heating needs.

Anyone applying for assistance must meet income eligibility requirements. Applicants are required to provide proof of income, picture ID, Copy of current award letter for

Social Security, SSI etc. Most recent utility bill, as well as Social Security cards for each household member.

Funds are limited and are being distributed on a first come, first served basis.

For the heating assistance program, CAC Inc. of CTC serves three counties: Chambers, Tallapoosa and Coosa. Last year, it completed applications for more than 27 3 households in those counties including 1273 in Chambers, 1094 in Tallapoosa, and 366 in Coosa.

To schedule an appointment or for additional information call 256-8254287 ext. 201, or visit our website@ www.cacctc.com

CAR SHOW: Lake Martin Street Rods and Classic Cars meets every third Saturday at Buck’s Dairy Quick in Alexander City from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 CCTS ALUMNI MEETING: The p.m. Call Danny at (256) 496-0024 for Coosa County Train School and J.D. more information.

Thompson alumni association hold TALLAPOOSA PATRIOTS: The monthly meetings the third Saturday of Tallapoosa Patriots meet the second each month.

Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

BEYOND TRANSFORMATIONS: Meetings every second Saturday. Have at Professional Commons. For more information contact Sherry Sellers at you been wanting to give back, work with youth, or be a part of a group that thyra899@gmail.com or at 256-234makes a difference? Please email iam- 2528.

DEMENTIA SUPPORT GROUP: transforms@gmail.com or Call at 334The Emily Gilbert Dementia Support 440-6539. Donations of clothes, food, Group for family and caregivers meets books, computers, school supplies. A the third Monday of every month in the building and donations are needed. community room at Russell Medical AMERICAN LEGION: Post 339 in Center from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. It Cottage Grove is open every Friday night from 8 p.m. until with fried chick- is sponsored by the Russell Medical Auxiliary. For more information call volen and fish. Music from the 70s, 80s, unteer services office at 256-329-7177. and 90s.

FREE SUPPORT GROUP: SCV MEETING:The Sons of GriefShare, a grief recovery support Confederate Veterans meets every group, will meet each Tuesday from 6 third Tuesday night at 7 p.m. at J.R.’s until 8 p.m. at the Reception Center of Sports Bar & Grill. Visitors are welRadney Funeral Home in Alexander come.

City. There is also a meeting on AMATEUR RADIO CLUB: The Tuesday at the Tallapoosa County Lake Martin Amateur Radio Club Baptist Association from 10 a.m. to meets from 6 to 7 p.m. the secnoon. This seminar is offered without ond Thursday of every month at cost to participants, and sponsored the Alexander City Airport Terminal

by Radney Funeral Home and Rocky Building with dinner and fellowship Creek Baptist Church. For further following at a local area restaurant. information and registration, call Larry Amateur radio license exams are Cummings at 256-397-2511. available after the meeting by prior WEIGHT WATCHERS: The group arrangement. The club also meets meets each Monday evening in the felon the air (Alabama Emergency Net Victor) on the first, third, fourth and fifth lowship hall of First United Methodist Church on Green Street in Alexander Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. on the club sponsored K4YWE repeater at 145.33 City. The Fellowship Hall is located mhz with the 146.96 repeater as back- behind the sanctuary. Registration is up. All interested can attend our meet- 5- 5:30 p.m. Meeting is 5:30-6 p.m. ings or contact Tim Mayfield K4CWL at New members will want to stay after 256-329-1172 or John Phillips WI4P at the meeting for a 15-minute Weight Watchers orientation.

256-212-4063

MUSIC AT EQUALITY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts music and other events on the second and fourth Friday nights of each month at 6:30 p.m. on Alabama Highway 9 in Equality. Country/Western, bluegrass, Southern gospel and instrumental music featured. For more information, contact Wayne Glenn at 334-5413302.

HOUSE OF RESTORATION PENTACOSTAL, INC.: Pastor Doris Patterson, 519 Slaughter Road in Camp Hill. Prayer is Monday at noon every week. Wednesday Bible Study at noon and Sunday School at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. For more information, contact 256-749-7666.

LABELS FOR EDUCATION: Jim Pearson’s P.E. Department is collecting Campbell’s soup labels and other products – visit labelsforeducation.com for a full list. Send labels and caps c/o Patricia Brooks, 3491 Coley Creek Road, Alexander City.

BOX TOPS FOR EDUCATION: Help support Alexander City Middle School by collecting box tops. Send them to ACMS or send them by students.

CHARITY BINGO: Alexander City Elk Lodge #1878 will have Charity Bingo every Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. Proceeds go to local college scholarships.

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP: The T.O.U.C.H. support group (Today Our Understanding of Cancer is Hope) meets at noon on the first Wednesday of each month in the community room of Russell Medical Center. The meeting is open to cancer survivors, current patients, caregivers or loved ones and anyone else going through cancer.

Lunch is covered dish.

STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Community Action Committee Inc. of Chambers-Tallapoosa-Coosa is gearing up to help low-income families pay heating bills this winter.

The purpose of the Low Income Home Energy Program (LIHEAP) is to assist low-income citizens by offsetting the rising cost of home energy through direct assistance, energy counseling, outreach and education.

The non-profits mission is to enhance the quality of life for lowincome people through mobilizing resources and providing services to promote self-sufficiency. The pro-

Ongoing Events

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from everyone at Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

CATHY HIGGINS SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228

sports@alexcityoutlook.com

Page 10

Friday, December 23, 2016

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Sports Calendar Monday, Dec. 26 • Central Coosa varsity boys basketball at Chuck Miller Arena in Talladega for Talladega RoundRobin Tournament, vs Talladega County, 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 27 • Central Coosa varsity boys basketball at Chuck Miller Arena in Talladega for Talladega RoundRobin Tournament, vs Shelby County, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 28 • Central Coosa varsity boys basketball at Chuck Miller Arena in Talladega for Talladega RoundRobin Tournament, vs Talladega, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 29 • BRHS varsity wrestling at Smiths Station, 9 a.m.-noon.

Wednesday, Dec. 28Friday, Dec. 30 • Lake Martin Slam Fest at Benjamin Russell gymnasium with varsity boys basketball teams from Reeltown, Tallassee, Dadeville, Stanhope Elmore, Alma Bryant, Elmore County, BRHS and Jackson, times TBA.

Tuesday, Jan. 3 • Dadeville varsity basketball home game against Elmore County, girls 5:30 p.m., boys, 7 p.m.

• Central Coosa varsity basketball at Clay Central, girls 5:30 p.m., boys 7 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 5 • BRHS wrestling at Chelsea, time TBA. • Dadeville basketball at Tallassee, JV boys 4:30 p.m, varsity girls 6 p.m., varsity boys, 7:30 p.m.

• Reeltown junior high girls, boys basketball at Beulah, 4 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 6 • Central Coosa JV boys, varsity girls/boys basketball at B.B. Comer, 5 p.m.

• Reeltown varsity basketball home game against Horseshoe Bend, girls 5 p.m., boys 6 p.m.

• BRHS wrestling at Hoover for Scott Roher Invitational, time TBA. • BRHS JV boys, varsity girls, varsity boys basketball home game against Sylacauga, 4:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 7 • BRHS wrestling at Hoover for Scott Roher Invitational, time TBA. • Trojan Baseball/Softball Camp at Central Alabama Community College Baseball Field. Led by current and former MLB players and coaches. Ages 4-12 8:30 a.m.-noon.

Ages 13-18 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Cost is $10 with checks to be made payable to Central Alabama CC Baseball Fund. For more information, call Larry Thomas at 251-533-4059.

• Dadeville basketball at Auburn, JV boys 3 p.m., varsity girls 4:30 p.m., varsity boys 6 p.m.

• Central Coosa basketball varsity boys home game against B.T. Washington, 4 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 9 • BRHS basketball home game against Opelika, varsity girls 6 p.m. varsity boys 7 p.m.

• Reeltown junior high boys basketball home game against Pike Road, 6 p.m.

• Horseshoe Bend varsity basketball home game against Woodland, girls 4 p.m., boys 5:45 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 10 • BRHS home basketball game against Auburn, varsity girls 6 p.m. varsity boys 7 p.m.

• Dadeville varsity basketball at Holtville, girls 5:30 p.m., boys, 7 p.m.

• Reeltown varsity basketball at Lanett, boys 4 p.m., girls 5:15 p.m.

• Horseshoe Bend varsity basketball home game against LaFayette, girls 5 p.m., boys 6:45 p.m.

• Central Coosa varsity boys/girls basketball at Randolph County, 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 11 • Central Coosa varsity basketball at Tallaega, boys 1 p.m., girls 3 p.m.

• Reeltown junior high boys, girls basketball home game against John P. Powell, 4:30 p.m.

Kenneth Boone / The Outlook

Horseshoe Bend head football coach Jason Franklin celebrates with his team after the Generals won their season opener against Donoho 55-13.

From hot seat to love seat Outlook Coach of the Year Jason Franklin helps Horseshoe Bend trade disappointing 2015 for 2016 playoff spot

By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor

Horseshoe Bend head football coach Jason Franklin has been named the Outlook Coach of the Year.

Franklin receives the distinction after leading the Generals to the first week of post-season playoffs. That’s quite an accomplishment after Horseshoe Bend came away from the 2015 season with only one win under its belt.

Franklin, who has been coaching at Horseshoe Bend since 2008, credits his Generals with the about face, which concluded with a season record of 6-5 overall and 4-3 in the region.

“It goes back to your players buying into what you’re selling,” he said. “That’s what changes things. As a coach, I didn’t do anything differently and the assistant coaches didn’t do anything differently.”

Franklin said his team’s commitment began back in the summer with the athletes’ dedication to building strength in the weight room and their dedication on the field.

“They became an overall cohesive team,” he said. “They came in every day with a great attitude.”

Franklin also credits the Generals’ fans with helping drive the team’s success this season.

“We had great crowd support,” he said. “You never had to question that. Every Friday night the friends and families were out

Kenneth Boone / The Outlook

In preparation of Horseshoe Bend’s home game against Fayetteville in October, the Generals follow the tank onto the field. Horseshoe Bend won the game 7-0 in the last few seconds of the game.

there to support the athletes, the band and everybody associated with the game.”

That season included numerous highlights. But for Franklin, one moment stands out from this year.

“The play on the goal line against Fayetteville to win the ball game,” the coach said.

That particular home game was fraught with amazing plays and scores that were immediately flagged, leaving the game scoreless until the final 34 seconds of

the fourth quarter. At that point, junior quarterback Cade Worthy passed the ball to junior Trace Meadows, who rushed for the 49-yard TD. Worthy followed it up with the PAT for a 7-0 win for the Generals.

For Meadows, that was one of seven touchdowns rushed and four received in the 11 games he played this season.

But he wasn’t the only General to have a great year under Franklin’s leadership. In 2016 senior running back Drew Hill

rushed for 20 TDs and made another from returning a kickoff to the goal line. Senior linebacker Brandon Heard had 102 solo tackles, 30 assists and 3 sacks for 21 yards lost. Junior punter Chad Stinson had 30 punts for 1,160 yards. Junior linebacker Nalijah Heard had 56 solo tackles and 23 assists, as well as a 35-yard interception.

“The guys really wanted to have a good season,” Franklin said of his team’s accomplishments.

Edward Bell-Dadeville Alumni Basketball Game set for tonight

By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor

Christmas will come early for fans of Dadeville and Edward Bell high school basketball from days gone by as the Edward Bell vs Dadeville Alumni Basketball Game tips off this evening.

Set in the Edward Bell gymnasium in Camp Hill, the event will feature games between Dadeville and Edward Bell alumni from boys and girls varsity basketball teams.

According to event organizer Derek Harris, the event will feature two separate games with girls playing at 6:15 p.m. and boys starting at 7:15 p.m.

The teams will be made up of players from the mid-1990s through 2010, including Dadeville’s Andrew Hart, Jason Burns,

Quentin Russell, Veronica Minnifield, Kristi Crapps and Ashley Finley. Edward Bell alumni set to play include Larry Cooper, Damien Carr, Danyun Doss, Jasmine Evans, Alisha Holston and Kia Askew.

Harris came up with the idea for the Edward Bell vs Dadeville Alumni Basketball Game after his work with Iron City Sports enabled him to organize similar events in Birmingham. Next week’s

game provides fans of Dadeville and the now closed Edward Bell to renew the rivalry the two schools held.

Harris has been organizing the event since Halloween. With that, he has even expanded the idea for next year with the hope of expanding it to include a yearly summer event with Benjamin Russell and Horseshoe Bend.

Since the Edward Bell-Dadeville Alumni Basketball Game was first announced, generated interest had led Harris to anticipate the event to attract approximately 400 spectators.

“I’m expecting a big crowd,” he said.

Tickets for the EBHS vs DHS Alumni Basketball Game are $7 and will be available at the door at EBH gym, located at 251 Martin Luther King St. in Camp Hill.

For more information, call Harris at 205-243-9006.