Dec 25, 2015 Alex City Outlook

Outlook THE

FRIDAY

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892 December D b 25 25, 22014 014 • Vol. V l 121 • N No. 25 257 57 • www.alexcityoutlook.com l i l k

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.

- Isaiah 9:6-0 This page sponsored by

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Page 2

Unborn daughter will be taught to ignore grandpa’s old ideas

Saturday

75 63 Low

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Cloudy, 20 percent chance of showers

Sunday

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Staff

Directory David Granger Staff Writer, Ext. 210 david.granger@alexcityoutlook.com Mia Osborn Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 mia.osborn@alexcityoutlook.com

Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Kenneth Boone Publisher, Ext. 218 kenneth.boone@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

Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Kim Morse Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 kim.morse@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Guill Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.guill@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 Alethia Russell Graphic Artist, Ext. 231 alethia.russell@alexcityoutlook.com

Newsroom Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Robert Hudson Sports Editor, Ext. 228 robert.hudson@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com

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

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.

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.

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

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

Postal

Information (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110)

Friday, December 25, 2015

The Outlook DEAR ABBY: Over the years I have come to realize that my father-in-law is condescending toward women.

He expects his wife will do all the cooking, cleaning and housework despite the fact that she has a demanding, full-time job and he doesn’t work outside the home.

When we go to dinner over there, it is expected that the women will clean up and do the dishes while the men sit and talk at the table. I have never seen him lift a finger to help, and he frequently makes demeaning comments about his wife’s cooking, among other things. He considers himself an expert on everything and frequently interrupts people (mostly women) to prove he “knows better.” His behavior is rude and I am offended by it.

I am pregnant with my first child -- a daughter -- and I’m concerned about her growing up in this atmosphere. I

DEAR ABBY Advice

don’t want her raised thinking that men know better than women and that women are supposed to wait on men. My husband doesn’t want to confront his father over this. How do we handle the situation?

-- FIRST-CLASS CITIZEN IN FLORIDA DEAR FIRST-CLASS: It appears your husband is as cowed by his father as your mother-in-law is or this wouldn’t be happening. He could have put a stop to it years ago by simply getting up from the table and helping you and his mom clear the dishes while Dad kept himself company.

If you prefer your little girl not grow up in an atmo-

Public Meetings  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.  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.  Camp Hill Town Council meets the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 6 p.m.  Community Action Agency of Chambers, Tallapoosa, Coosa will holds its regular board of directors meetings every other month at the Central Office in Dadeville.  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.

 Dadeville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 5 p.m. in city hall.  Daviston City Council meets the third Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the Daviston Fire Department.  Goodwater City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held upstairs in the courthouse at 6:30 p.m.  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.

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 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.

We Care About You

 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.

As...........

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DEAR ABBY: While waiting for my chemotherapy to finish along with two other patients (all three of us have little time left), one of them made a comment about his wife. She was sitting next to him as a visitor, continuously using her cellphone. He said, “She always plays games or talks on her phone while I just sit here!” He looked so sad.

I understand, because my husband does the same thing and has for years. Yesterday morning my husband came out of the bedroom and said, “How are you this morn-

ing?” I turned around and asked, “Are you talking to me?” It took a moment for me to realize he was actually addressing me and not someone on the other end of the phone. How sad! -NEAR THE END DEAR NEAR: I agree that it’s sad. Your spouses will have the rest of their lives to regret the meaningful conversations they missed having, and the important things that were left unsaid because they were too busy hiding from reality on their cellphones.

TO MY READERS: A very Merry Christmas to you all!

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.

Police Briefs

 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.

1720 Dadeville Road • Alexander City, AL

sphere like this, see less of your in-laws. Be sure to tell your MIL why. And if you “must” subject your daughter to her grandfather’s presence, point out to her that “Gramps” acts this way because his thinking is outdated. Explain that it is his attempt to make himself feel important, even if he isn’t.

 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.

Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department December 23

• A resident on Ennis Hill Road in Dadeville filed a report for burglary of a residence and theft.

•Omar Barahona of Pearson Chapel Road, in alexander city, was arrested on a warrant for probation violation.

• Katie Collum of Goldville Cutoff Road, in Alexander City, was arrested on warrant for failure to appear.

• A resident on Obed Loop, in Dadeville, filed a report for theft of property.

December 21

• A resident of Cobb Road in Tallassee, filed a report for burglary of a residence.

December 22

• A resident of Highway 50 in Dadeville, filed a report for burglary of a residence.

• A resident of Tallapoosa Street in Notasulga, filed a report for burglary of a residence.

• A resident of Girls Ranch Road in Dadeville, filed a report for harassment.

December 20

• Jessica Whetstone of Reeder Road in Dadeville was arrested on a warrant for failure to comply with terms of probation.

• A resident on Sunset Lane filed a report for harassing communications.

December 19

• A resident on Highway 49 South filed a report for

harassment.

• Dewayn Edwards of Central Avenue in Alexander City was arrested on a warrant for failure to pay times 2 of resisting arrest and probation violation and revocation.

• William Burnham of Herndon Street in Opelika was arrested for driving under the influence.

December 18

• A resident of Glenwood Drive in Alexander City filed a report for theft by deception.

• Coroy McKenzie of Freeman Avenue in Tallassee was arrested on a warrant for failure to pay for child support.

• A resident on Highway 63 North viled a report for domestic violence harassment.

• A resident on Highway 49 South filed a report for criminal mischief and theft of property.

December 17

• Jackie McElrath of County Road in Alexander City was arrested for a probation violation.

December 16

• A resident of Cobb Road in Notasulga filed a report for burglary of a residence.

Obituaries

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Joan Melissa Strain Memorial service for Ms. Joan Melissa Strain, 62, of Dadeville, will be Sunday, December 27, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Langley

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at Saint Vincent’s Hospital. She was born on February 5, 1953 in Alexander City, Alabama to Jack Adrain Strain and Sue Belcher Bannister.

She was a professional chef by trade and worked at many fine establishments all over the southeast. She loved gardening, reading, and Auburn Football. She spent many hours at the local library and with her beloved animals.

She is survived by her sons, Paul McCaleb of Dadeville and Jason

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OPINION: THE ORININAL CHRISTMAS STORY, PAGE 4

THE

NEED CASH?

You still have time to get some of Santa’s Cash. Inside.

FRIDAY

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892 December 25, 2015 Vol. 123, No. 257 www.alexcityoutlook.com

Area’s top offensive players honored, page 8.

Speed a concern for area residents

Food & Fellowship

Remedy for excessive speed on residential streets sought

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

It takes two assembly lines to plate the nearly 100 meals at the Feast of Sharing. On the menu for Tuesday was ham, dressing, beans, mashed potatoes and red velvet cake.

Area churches team for Feast of Sharing Dr. Todd Henderson said.

“It has been great to watch it grow.”

For six years, the The weekly meal was the Alexander City First United product of former FUMC Methodist Church has Pastor Dr. Bill Etheridge. been opening its doors on “He just had it on his Thursday evenings to anyheart to do this,” Henderson one that wants to come for said. dinner and fellowship.

The program has grown Over the summer, St. from just a few to averJames Episcopal Church aging nearly 100 every has started offering a Thursday night and with the Tuesday meal at the help of St. James Episcopal Methodist Church.

Church, a Tuesday meal is Tuesday night the two now served too. churches combined their “We now have it as part efforts offering music and of our normal budget,” almost as many helping in Henderson said. “It is fundthe gathering as those eated so that we are not going ing and listening. around asking for donations The gathering is known to get it done.” as the Feast of Sharing and That is not the case yet at it has taken on a life of its St. James. own.

“Some of us knew sev“I enjoy the fellowship eral of the people involved and time with friends,” here at the Methodist eight-year-old Caitlynn Church,” Judy Ireland Heard said. said. “We looked at several “It has become its own options and decided that community,” FUMC Pastor See DINNER • Page 3

ALL-OUTLOOK ‘O’

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Caitlynn Heard smiles as she has a photograph taken with Santa.

Heard told Santa that she wants an iPod. Heard and her family frequently attend the Feast of Sharing. “It is a blessing for us to come.”

We’ve all seen motorists zip by up on a neighborhood street, knowing full well that they driver is going well above the posted speed limit.

Recently, several area residents have voiced concern to elected officials, law enforcement and The Outlook about two problem areas in particular.

People who live in the areas along South Central Avenue and Elkahatchee Street say that the problem is getting out of hand.

One resident said he has asked his elderly mother to stop walking to get the mail for fear of speeding traffic.

Councilman Tony Goss said he has gotten calls from residents in both of those areas, asking that something be done to slow drivers down.

“I have had numerous calls,” Goss said at Monday’s meeting of the Alexander City Council. “On South Central you have drivers cutting through to get to Cherokee and going down that hill they do fly down through there. I’d like to see if there was something productive that we could do to slow that traffic down.”

On Elkahatchee, it too is a cutthrough for city vehicles and those who work in the of Russell Complex.

Residents there say they can’t even allow children to ride bikes there.

Alexander City Police Chief Willie G. Robinson said he has been made aware of the problems and said he will step up patrols and explore other measure that will held slow traffic.

“The speed limit is clearly posted,” Robinson said. “We will do all we can to address the issue in both areas.”

Outlook, others closed for holiday

By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

Peggy and Bob Clayton sing along with Bobby Boone and Marc Tucker as the St. James Gang sings Christmas tunes at Tuesday night’s Feast of Sharing.

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Now Playing:

Star Wars 3D – PG-13 Daddy’s Home – PG Alvin and the Chipmunks: Road Chip – PG

In order for our employees to celebrate Christmas with their families, the offices of The Outlook are closed today.

The same is true with many other businesses and government offices.

According to the city and Tallapoosa County, both city and county offices will be closed all day on Christmas Day. They will resume normal hours on Monday, Dec. 28.

The Alexander City Post Office at 233 Lee St. will be closed Christmas Day. It will reopen for normal hours (8 a.m. until 11 a.m.) on Saturday, Dec. 26.

All local banks will be closed today, including USAmeriBank, Region’s Bank, Renasant Bank and River Bank & Trust.

Today’s

Lake Martin

Weather

Lake Levels

76 64

480.27

High

Low

Reported on 12/24/15 @ 10 a.m.

Linda Shaffer, REALTOR® C: 256.794.4641 • W: 256.329.5253 shaffer@lakemartin.net 5295 Highway 280, Alexander City, AL

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54708 90050 USPS Permit # 013-080

8

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

EDITORIAL BOARD Kenneth Boone Mitch Sneed

Page 4

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Our

Opinion

T

Outlook

Christmas is an everyday holiday

The true A meaning of Christmas his is the original Christmas story from the second chapter of the Gospel of Luke, as told in the King James Bible: “And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David) to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

Tallapoosa Publishers wishes you a very Merry Christmas!

Friday, December 25, 2015

The

s you read this column, I hope that you and your family are enjoying a great Christmas 2015. . I hope and pray it has been a fruitful time for you. I hope that you have had time to ponder this holiday season the true and actual purpose of “Christmas.”

It’s more than just religious platitudes and manger scenes. God had a purpose for that baby that was born in Bethlehem over 2000 years ago.

There in that manger, surrounded by bewildered animals and silent shepherds, is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.

He’s the crowned Prince of Heaven. He’s the One who spoke everything into existence and created us from the dust of the ground. He is God Almighty, come to our world to enter into our experience and to save us from our sins.

One of the most important questions we need to ponder

MATT HAINES Guest Columnist

at Christmas is “Why was it necessary for Jesus Christ to be born?”

When we search the Scriptures for that answer, we see that this world we live in is not the world as God first created it. It’s been broken and fractured.

In the same way, you and I are not the full imagebearers that God first created. We’ve been marred and bruised by the weight of our sinful rebellion before a holy God. Our sins have created an eternal divide between us and the loving God who created us for His glory.

And so, since we cannot do anything to save ourselves, God sent His Son in the world to do what we

couldn’t do – to live a life of perfect righteousness that we couldn’t live and to die a sinner’s death that we deserved.

You see, from the first day Christ entered the world he came to die. The reason why it was necessary for Jesus to be born was to save his people from their sins.

This is why the angel announced the good news that “unto you is born this day a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” So, what’s our response to this good news?

It’s the same response that the Magi had many months later when they said, “we have come to worship him.”

The most appropriate response to amazing grace is awe-filled worship. In reality, Christmas Day is every day, as we worship and adore God’s gift of a Savior given for us.

Matt Haines is the minister at Sixth Street Baptist Church in Alexander City.

Lieutenant Governor Kay Ivey represents the state of Alabama and its 67 counties. She was elected to office on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334-242-7900. Her office is located at 11 South Union Street, Suite 725, Montgomery.

Kay Ivey Mark Tuggle (R) represents the 81st District covering Lee 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.

Mark Tuggle

Tom Whatley represents the 27th District covering Lee, Russell and Tallapoosa County. He was elected to the Alabama Senate on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334Tom Whatley 242-7865. His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn.

“Friendship is not something you learn in school, but if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship you haven’t really learned anything.

– Muhammad Ali

Today’s

Scripture “And my message and my preaching were very plain.

Rather than using clever and persuasive speeches, I relied only on the power of the Holy Spirit.”

— 1 Corinthians 2:4

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Daily Poll

Thursday’s question: Did you go into debt while Christmas shopping this year?

No – 11

Today’s question: Do you plan to make any New Year’s resolutions?

To participate in this daily poll, log on each day to www.alexcity outlook.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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Mission The Outlook strives to report the news honestly, fairly and with integrity, to take a leadership role and act as a positive influence in our community, to promote business, to provide for the welfare of our employees, to strive for excellence in everything we do and above all, to treat others as we would want to be treated ourselves.

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Officials

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 334-242-7100. His office is located at the State Capitol at 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Robert Bentley Alabama.

Quote

Yes – 4

Know Your

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.

Today’s

L

That’s what life is all about

ast weekend, I had a speaking engagement in Biloxi, located on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. This weekend, I was in Kuwait City, located on the beautiful Persian Gulf. I’ll give the edge to Biloxi, but only because of the short driving distance. It took 28 hours, four screaming babies, three airplanes, two taxi cabs, and a partridge in a palm tree to get over here. The journey was challenging, to say the least, but the destination was worth it. They had me on the 14th floor overlooking the Persian Gulf. Life is good, sometimes.

But I digress—I’m blessed. Professionally, it’s been an outstanding year.

Personally, not so much.

I’ve had more ups and downs than my plane experienced during the flight from Atlanta to New York on Thursday. I don’t usually get bothered by turbulence, but it was pretty bad. In fact, the kind lady sitting next to me grabbed ahold of my arm a couple of times.

She almost yanked it off one time, and that’s ok. I was there for her, because that’s what life is all about.

Besides, “God got this,” she said, and He did. We had a

JODY FULLER Guest Columnist

great talk, but let’s just say she did most of the talking.

I was the listener and a good one at that.

This year has taken me across the pond a couple of times. It’s also taken me from Las Vegas to South Florida and Oregon to New Jersey. It’s not about the money or the miles. It’s about bringing humor into others’ lives. A sense of humor and laughter can most definitely bridge the bad times with the good.

Prayer helps, too. That’s what life is all about.

Last year, Santa came to my home and brought a sweet little girl a bicycle on Christmas morning. Earlier this year, I taught that same sweet little girl how to ride that bicycle. There’s no doubt that this was the highlight of my year. We had so much fun, but there were times, and I hate to admit it, that I got impatient.

There were times during the learning process when she

was scared and would slam on the brakes, put her feet down, or reach out to grab my arm, and each time, I was there for her, because that’s what life is all about.

This last year has been rough, but I made it.

Fortunately, I had family and friends who were there for me when I needed them most. They were patient with me. They were there to teach me. They were there to listen. They were there to make me laugh. Most importantly, they were there when I needed someone to reach out to and grab ahold of as I went through my own turbulence until I landed safely.

We all need that from time to time, so this year, particularly, during this time of year, give the gift of friendship, compassion, and love, because in my humble opinion, that’s what life is all about.

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

The 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 at 256-234-4281, Ext. 204 or e-mail david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com.

What’s your

Opinion?

We’d like to share your thoughts and opinions with the greater Lake Martin community. It’s free and it only takes a few moments of your time. We have two ways to get your opinion in print: letters to the editor and guest columns. The main difference is length. Letters to the editor are up to 250 words, while guest columns can be up to 500 words. Letters and columns may be sent to P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011, faxed to (256) 234-6550 or e-mailed to editor@ alexcityoutlook.com. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send us your thoughts today!

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Friday, December 25, 2015

Dinner

www.alexcityoutlook.com

The Outlook

Page 5

continued from page 3

doing it at the Methodist Church just worked better. We have been doing it solely on donations.�

Ireland said support from St. James has been great. “We kept saying we wanted to do it,� Ireland said. “We just stepped out there and did it. We are doing it solely on donations. The Holy Spirit would not let us go. We started out with seven teams of eight to ten people each.�

Ireland said they have learned along the way. “We started out serving red beans and rice with sausage, fruit cocktail and tea,� Ireland said. “We did that for about 14 weeks before getting tired of that and moving on to a more diverse menu.�

And the help is not just coming from FUMC and St. James.

Cliff Williams / The Outlook Passion Church member Dorothy Heard could be seen dancing with some of Tuesday night’s attend- Alexander City’s Dorothy Heard serves up plates Tuesday night. Heard says she just loves to serve. ees, both young and old. “It is easy to love somebody, especially these children,� Dorothy Heard said. “They don’t forget me. They see me in the store and they remember me. You see, they might have to hold my hand one day, but today, I can hold theirs. I have been helping for awhile. I just enjoy it. I really enjoy giving away God’s love.�

Henderson sees it growing. “We want to expand it,� Henderson said. “We are adding more to the spiritual aspect of it with devotionals, scripture and prayer.�

For anyone attending the Feast of Sharing, you Cliff Williams / The Outlook have to walk under a banner that says, “Grace is free and so is the meal.�

Judy Ireland from St. James Though young, Caitlynn Heard may have reads the Christmas Story described it best. from the Bible Tuesday night “It is a blessing for us to come here,� Heard for devotional. said. “A lot of people don’t have things like this.�

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Season Speaks

Today’s Event

CHRISTMAS MEAL: Comer Methodist Church is hosting a Christmas Dinner from 11 a.m. to 1

December 26

COMMUNITY FORUM: Churches, schools, organizations, clubs, youth and adults are invited to a community forum on Emergency Preparedness, Get ready, stay ready, what to do when there is a disaster and Serious Advice for Effective Encounters Saturday, Dec. 16 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission is free.

They will also be teaching young people how to respond when approached by law enforcement.

It is sponsored by the Central Alabama Club of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Incorpated.

AMERICAN LEGION POST 339, COTTAGE GROVE, AL: Under new management! Music, food, and fun! Annual Christmas celebration beginning at 8:30 p.m.. Dress to impress.

December 27

NOTE BURNING CEREMONY: Peace and Goodwill M.B.C. will have a note burning ceremony for the Community Life Center Dec. 27 at 2 p.m. at 188 County Road 30 in Kellyton.

Guest will be Rev. Dr. Emerson Ware, Jr. of Great Bethel Baptist Church.

Rev. Robert Williams is pastor of Peace and Goodwill.

December 28-30

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COMMUNITY FEEDING: The Alexander City Schools Nutrition Program will be feeding children and adults at the Stephens Elementary School cafeteria Dec. 28-30 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The meal is free for children and $3 for adults. There will also be activities for children.

January 6

MONTHLY LUNCHEON: The Bibb Graves School in Millerville is hosting its monthly luncheon Jan. 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Bring a covered dish.

January 10

HAIR AND FASHION SHOW: Gloria Boleware celebrates 37 years of service with a community hair and fashion show Jan. 10 at 3 p.m. at Passion Church on Highway 63.

It will feature Hair 4 Daze, Dea Love’ Reesie Williams, Adrian Young, Team Katlin,Sharmaine Stowes, Nalarence Davis Show Models, GoGetters, Ent Marilyn Owens Lebron Spradley and the Grande Finale Charlene Benton.

January 16

p.m.

The public is invited to have a hot meal and enjoy fellowship. Tickets can be picked up at the Nutrition Center and the Salvation Army. You do not have to have a ticket to have a meal. Call 256-234-7831 for more info.

TRADE DAY: The Bibb Graves School in Millerville is hosting Trade Day Jan. 16 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

January 17

GOSPEL SINGING: Hillabee Baptist Church will host a gospel singing and concert with Adam Cragg and The Griffith Family Jan. 17 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A love offering will be taken.

January 21

WINE TASTING: Emporium Wine will host a wine tasting event from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 128 Calhoun Street, Alexander City. There is no charge for this event.

PUBLIC MEETING: The Tallapoosa County Commission/Emergency Management Agency is scheduling a public meeting on Janyary 21 at 10 a.m. to update its Hazard Mitigation Plan. The meeting will take place at the Tallapoosa County Courthouse, Dadevile in the Extension Auditorium downstairs. the public, private non-profits, municipalities, school board, universities/ colleges, utility/water/sewer boards, fire departments, and elected officials are among those invited and encouraged to attend. participation is required in order to apply for federal hazard mitigation grants in the future.

January 22

MARDI GRAS AUCTION: St. James Episcopal Church will host live and silent auctions at this inaugural event to support the Feast of Sharing ministry, which provides free meals twice a week at First United Methodist Church to some 100 people in need.

Auction items will include original art, a Russell Marine wakeboarding package, framed photography by Kenneth Boone, handmade pottery items, a vacation at the beach for the whole family, the Rev. Rob Iler’s handyman services for a day and more. There will be beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages, hors d’oeuvres, desserts and entertainment. Tickets are $25 per person and can be reserved by calling St. James Episcopal Church at 256-2344752. For information, contact Heidi Ross at 256-794-7010 or Susan Mange at 601-4318239.

FREE SPEECH AND HEARING SCREENING: The Auburn University NSSLHA and SAA are having a free speech and hearing screening Friday, January 22 from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.. No appointment is necessary.

All children must be accompanied by a parent or

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

Julius Wolfe, Adrain Browning, James Smith, Ryan Jones, Johnny Jarvis, Jessica Phillips, Bartell Evans, Georgia Staples

legal guardian. Please note that very young or handicapped individuals may not be able to respond to the speech hearing screening and may require a more formal evaluation at a later appointment date. Services will be provided by the Auburn University Speech and Hearing Clinic Room 1199 Haley Center.

January 23

BINGO NIGHT: Bibb Graves School in Millerville is hosting family bingo night Jan. 23 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

TRASH WALK: The next PATH Trash Walk is scheduled for Saturday, January 23 at 9:00 AM. We will meet at the fountain in front of Jake’s Restaurant to receive supplies and assignments. Come out and join your friends and neighbors for a healthy walk while removing unsightly litter from the roadways of the “most scenic� county in Alabama. For additional information contact John Thompson at jthompson@ lmra.info

January 25

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Steve Flowers will be the speaker for Horizons Unlimited Jan. 25 at the Alexander City Board of Education from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

February 1

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Dr. Mark Conversino will be the speaker for Horizons Unlimited Feb. 1 at the Alexander City Board of Education from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

February 8

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Troy Jones will be the speaker for Horizons Unlimited Feb. 8 at the Alexander City Board of Education from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

February 22

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Julie Williams will be the speaker for Horizons Unlimited Feb. 22 at the Alexander City Board of Education from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

February 29

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Jerry Armor will be the speaker for Horizons Unlimited Feb. 29 at the Alexander City Board of Education from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

March 7

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Susan Webb will be the speaker for Horizons Unlimited March 7 at the

Alexander City Board of Education from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Ongoing Events AFFORDABLE CARE ACT ASSISTANCE: VCCA certified volunteers will provide Affordable Care Act Assistance by appointment – Marketplace Open Enrollment (based on income) assistance will be offered November 2 through December 30 (except during the weeks of 11/23 and 12/21) on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m.

- 2:00 p.m. Please call the VCCA office at 256-234-0347 on Mondays or Wednesdays (9 a.m. -2 p.m.) to set up an appointment.

WOMAN MEETING: Every first Sunday, Victory Temple Holiness Church hosts a woman’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 256-215-4496 (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 WIOA 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.

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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

ROBERT HUDSON SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228

sports@alexcityoutlook.com

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Page 8

Friday, December 25, 2015

2015 ALL-OUTLOOK: OFFENSE

File / The Outlook

Benjamin Russell senior quarterback Tyre Gray, above left, and Dadeville junior Margarius “Scooter” Buchanan, above right, were two of the Lake Martin area’s most dynamic offensive players in the 2015 high school football season.

By Robert Hudson Outlook Sports Editor

The 2015 season was a season of highs and lows for every team in Tallapoosa County.

The Benjamin Russell Wildcats made a run to the fourth round of the 6A playoffs and compiled a 12-2 record along the way, while Dadeville withstood injuries to finish in the second round and achieve a 6-6 record.

Reeltown fell on a late kick, ending their season and legendary Coach Jackie O’Neal’s career in dramatic fashion, as they finished 6-5.

Coosa ended a 15-year drought by going to the Class 3A State Playoffs with a 5-6 finish, while Horseshoe Bend finished 0-10.

No matter what their records, the teams of Tallapoosa County each had stars on offense that thrilled fans.

This is the 2015 All-Outlook Offense.

File / The Outlook

Above, Benjamin Russell junior running back NeColby Maxwell was one of the most dominant rushers in the area with 1,841 yards and 15 TDs. Below, Dadeville senior wideout Tyreke Stone (7) led the area in receiving yards, while Coosa senior rusher Rod Whetstone was the Cougars leading running back.

2015 All-Outlook Offense First Team QB – Tyre Gray (Sr.), BRHS: 59-of-96 passing, 617 yards, 6 TDs. 160 carries, 1,848 yards, 31 TDs RB – NeColby Maxwell (Jr.), BRHS: 294 carries, 1,841 yards, 15 TDs RB – Rod Whetstone (Sr.), CCHS: 183 carries, 1,293 yards, 15 TD. OL – Torran Smith (Jr.), RHS OL – Blake Baker (Jr.), RHS OL – Daniel Bland (Sr.), BRHS: 82 grade, 105 knockdowns, 40 pancakes OL – Anthony Parker (Sr.), BRHS: 82 grade, 110 knockdowns, 25 pancakes OL – Carter Jones (Jr.), BRHS WR – Tyreke Stone (Sr.), DHS: 68 catches, 1,230 yards, 11 TDs WR – William Bell (Sr.), RHS: 30 catches, 613 yards, 6 TDs WR – David McKinney (Sr.), CCHS: 20 catches, 494 yards, 6 TDs ATH – Margarius Buchanan (Jr.), DHS: 78-of133 passing, 1,399 yards, 9 TDs. 221 carries, 1,538 yards, 23 TDs. 3 receiving TDs K – Sean Rape (Sr.), BRHS: 9-of-14 FGs, 44 yard long

2015 All-Outlook Offense Second Team QB – Raymond Graham (Jr.), CCHS: 70-of-154 passing, 1,098 yards, 11 TDs. 219 carries, 1,224 yards, 11 TDs RB – Drew Hill (Jr.) HBS: 182 carries, 1,329 yards, 15 TDs RB – Cody Martin (Sr.), RHS: 190 carries, 1,183 yards, 12 TD. OL – Tevin Smith (Sr.), CCHS OL – William Wilson (Sr.), HBS OL – Ladarius Smoot (Sr.), BRHS OL – Branterro Banks (Jr.), DHS OL – Winston Pearson (Sr.), CCHS WR – Isaiah Hicks (Sr.), DHS: 15 catches, 505 yards, 6 TDs WR – Jamon Matthews (Jr.), RHS: 33 catches, 474 yards, 2 TDs WR – Markez McCullough (Sr.), RHS: 19 catches, 360 yards, 3 TDs, 466 yards rushing, 4 TDs ATH – Korey Edwards (Sr.), DHS: 88-of-162 passing, 1,430 yards, 11 TDs. 53 carries, 225 yards, 4 TDs