Dec. 28, 2017 Alex City Outlook

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THE CALENDAR, PAGE 6 Check out upcoming events in the area

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December 28, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 257 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢

One arrested, two at large in robbery

By MITCH SNEED Editor

NEW LOOK:

New police cruisers feature ‘ghost’ decal

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Eight new, fully outfitted Chevy Tahoes have been put into service by the Alexander City Police Department and residents may have noticed that the cruisers feature a different look than the previous black and white design.

The vehicles are marked with a new “ghost” decal that features the word “POLICE” in letters that are more than a foot tall and with Alexander City underneath. The decal uses a reflective technology that has a very light gold look and then illuminated when lights hit the wording.

Alexander City Police Department Chief Jay Turner said the new look was a decision that involved virtually all of the department’s personnel.

“When we got these we wanted to take a look at the markings and we had them See POLICE • Page 3

What has been a busy week for law enforcement in and around Camp Hill continued Tuesday evening as an armed robbery at a residence led to one arrest and the search for two more suspects.

Camp Hill Police Chief Wilkerson Johnny Potts said officers responded to a robbery call at a residence behind the Link convenience store on Old Highway 280 just after 9 p.m.

“We had reports that three armed men, described as black males were involved at a robbery at the residence,” Potts said. “One man was taken into custody after a foot chase. We do have two more suspects who were involved in this incident and we are searching for them and following all leads.

This is still an active investigation so there See ROBBERY • Page 3

Florida man killed in Highway 280 crash STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

You may have noticed that the new police cruisers look a bit different. The new “ghost” decal shows a very light gold decal, top, and then illuminates whenever light hits it as shown above.

Coosa County has now seen its second fatal traffic crash in less than a week.

A two-vehicle crash at 8:11 p.m. Tuesday claimed the life of a Milton, Florida man.

Cpl. Jess Thornton of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency State Troopers said that Nathan Chase Dixon, 20, was killed when the 2015 Dodge pickup he was driving struck a disabled 2017 Peterbilt tractor-trailer.

Dixon was pronounced dead at the scene.

A passenger in the Dodge was transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries.

The crash occurred on U.S. Highway 280 near the 61-mile marker, about four miles north of Alexander City.

Nothing further is available as Alabama State Troopers continue to investigate.

See FATALITY • Page 3

Horseshoe Bend majorettes prepare for Citrus Bowl show

Dadeville council considers changing tax collectors

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

When the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the LSU Tigers square off in the Citrus Bowl in Orlando on New Year’s Day, four local students will be taking part in the halftime entertainment. The majorette squad from Horseshoe Bend received an invitation to join other majorettes, danceline members and cheerleaders from across the country to perform in a show presented by AllAmerican Halftime Show.

The invitation was extended to the Horseshoe Bend majorettes during a baton twirling camp in Auburn the four attended, according to majorette sponsor Sandra Fuller.

“At the camp, all the participants were evaluated on their performance, and the decisions were made then to determine who would be invited to attend and perform in the Citrus Bowl,” Fuller said. “We got the invitation at the camp, and we registered to go.”

See MAJORETTES • Page 9

Today’s

Weather

47 32 High

Low

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

Submitted / The Outlook

Horseshoe Bend majorettes Brianna Jones, Hannah Adcock, Rebecca Anderson and Lindsey Brown were selected to take part in the halftime show of the Citrus Bowl on New Year’s Day. The show, presented by All-American Halftime Show, selects majorettes, danceline members and cheerleaders from around the country to participate in the Citrus Bowl halftime show.

Lake Martin

Lake Levels

483.86 Reported on 12/27/17 @ 11 a.m.

We Care About You

Sylvester Williamson from the Alabama Department of Revenue was on hand at the Dadeville City Council meeting Tuesday evening to present a plan for the city should Dadeville choose to change sales tax collection agencies. Currently, Dadeville has a contract with the agency RDS, but Williamson said there were some advantages to going through the state Revenue Department, including saving money on collections and not having to pay a special commission to a private company to collect these taxes.

See DADEVILLE • Page 3

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Husband loses desire for wife after witnessing her overdose

Friday

50 34 Low

High Mostly sunny

Saturday

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Staff

Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Amy Passaretti Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, Ext. 228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com

Postal

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

Thursday, December 28, 2017

The Outlook

Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com Santana Wood Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 santana.wood@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Retail Sales Manager, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Digital Marketing Coordinator, Ext. 231 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Rebecca Carlisle Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 rebecca.carlisle@alexcityoutlook.com Grant Peterson Advertising Sales, Ext. 209 grant.peterson@alexcityoutlook.com

DEAR ABBY: I have been married for three years to a woman who is very beautiful inside and out. (We have been together for six years.)

Recently, I found out she is addicted to pain meds -- and two months ago she confided that she had gotten hooked on heroin.

I set up an intervention to get her into rehab. But when the time came to go, she kept putting it off. She said she wanted to get high “one more time,” so I told her OK, as long as she did it at home, so I’d know she was safe. After she injected herself, she went limp, so I called 911 and got her into the hospital.

It is now two months later, and she is back. I love her dearly, but I no longer desire to be intimate with her. How do I tell her I will always stand by her, but no longer want to be intimate? She’s younger and still has a strong sex drive.

-- LOST THAT PART IN THE EAST DEAR LOST: The news

DEAR ABBY Advice

should be conveyed in the office of a licensed marriage and family therapist. While your sexual problem may result from the shock of seeing your wife nearly die in front of you, there may be more to it. You say she is “younger and STILL has a strong sex drive.” This suggests that you are older and your lack of desire might to some extent be age- or hormone-related.

The two of you have a lot of talking to do about your feelings and your future. It would be better if it’s done with the help of a trained moderator.

Also, if your wife was sharing needles, you both need to be tested for any diseases she may have contracted.

DEAR ABBY: My parents and my wife’s parents both live 20 minutes from us. Both sets of parents purposely moved to be close to us. The problem is both sets of parents tell people the few times we are together how often they see their grandkids -- which is simply not true.

Mom talks as if she sees them multiple times a week, although she generally sees them less than once a month.

She does watch my niece three days a week, but to hear her tell it, all her grandkids fall into that category. My wife’s parents see me, my wife and our two kids about twice a month, but also tell others it’s “all the time.” Then, when we do meet, they ignore the kids!

I am bothered about it for two reasons: They are taking undue credit for “helping us out,” and second, I’m sick of having heard for the last 12 years how “lucky” my kids are to have such wonderful grandparents. It caused us to miss out on help from extended family because they thought

my wife and I were already receiving so much.

Is there a nice way to say to my parents/in-laws that the story they are selling is fiction?

We do love them. All we would like is for them to help out the way they claim to. -- SICK OF THE FICTION DEAR SICK OF THE FICTION: I find it strange that both sets of in-laws would relocate to be close, and then not follow through on trying to BE close. I also don’t know why your parents would loudly take credit for the things they haven’t been doing. If you want to end the fiction, tell the extended family the truth and explain that you really do need their help and why. You should have done it years ago.

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

Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 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, Kenneth Boone Photography and a commercial web printing press. © 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.

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

Audra Spears / The Outlook

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

Droddy wins $125 in Santa Cash Giveaway Caroline Droddy was the winner of $125 in the Tallapoosa Publishers Great Santa Cash Giveaway. Droddy, left, was presented a check Wednesday by TPI Graphic Artist Hallie Holloway.

Submitted / The Outlook

Four men were charged with trafficking marijuana after the U.S. Postal Service and Tallassee Police Department executed a search warrant at a residence confiscating 12 pounds of marijuana that had arrived in a package delivered by the mail carrier.

TPI

Tallapoosa Publishers,Inc.

Tallassee police and U.S. Postal investigators confiscate 12 pounds of marijuana

By CARMEN RODGERS Staff Writer

The U.S. Postal Service has been working overtime to deliver

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Christmas gifts and other packages during this holiday season, but four men on Herd Street in Tallassee received a package on Friday,

Dec. 22 that has them in trouble with the law.

Not long after the delivery, the Tallassee Police Department along with an investigator from the U.S. Postal Service executed a search warrant at the residence confiscating 12 pounds of marijuana that had arrived at the residence in a package delivered by the mail carrier.

“Postal inspectors notified us and asked for our assistance because it was being delivered to an address in our area,” said Tallassee Police Chief Matt Higgins. “Our investigators worked with their investigators and our tactical unit

carried out the search warrant.”

This search warrant resulted the arrest of four men: Daniel Freeman, 21, Rodrerious Freeman, 23, Notoriss Sanford, 24, of Tallassee and Reno Avery, 25, who were all charged with trafficking marijuana.

The investigation is ongoing and officials say details are limited at this time. Higgins did explain that the package traveled across state lines before its delivery in the otherwise quiet Tallassee neighborhood.

“Some of that is still under investigation so I can’t give that out,” he said. “But it was out of state.”

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Police

continued from page 1

give us several options that wouldn’t add to the cost,” Turner said. “So we put it out there for our folks to voice their opinion and they really seemed to like this.

“Our vehicles are on the road constantly and we have to use them for a lot of different purposes. So this one gives us some versatility and the officers are excited about it.”

Turner said involving them in the decision is another move to help boost morale.

“We are so thankful to have these vehicles,” Turner said. “They were a long time coming and they were excited about getting them too.

The idea is if they have some say in something as small as how they look, they will take even more pride in them.”

The look is one that is being shared by departments all over the country.

“It’s not a thing that allows you to hide, like some people have suggested,” Turner said. “It’s still very visible. It’s just new technology that has allowed the vehicles to used in lots of different situations.”

Mobile Communications, of Columbus, Georgia handles the task of outfitting the vehicles with all the extras like electronics, lights and markings. The work came at a cost of $16,172 per vehicle. For the eight new Chevy Tahoe SUVs the total cost was an estimated $129,376.

This is the first multiple purchase of vehicles by the city for the department since 2012.

File / The Outlook

In August, the police department decided to get new vehicles. Mobile Communications of Columbus handled the task of outfitting the vehicles with all the extras like electronics, lights and markings. The work came at a cost of $16,172 per vehicle. For the eight new Chevy Tahoe SUVs, the total cost was an estimated $129,376. This is the first multiple purchase of vehicles by the city for the department since 2012. The new cruisers feature a “ghost” decal that is a light gold color and then illuminates when light hits it.

Robbery

continued from page 1

aren’t many more details we can release at this time.”

According to the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department, Markee Wilkerson, 30 of Camp Hill is in the Tallapoosa County Jail on charges of first-degree robbery. Bond had not been set as of 3 p.m. Wednesday and Wilkerson remained in custody.

Potts said no one at the residence was injured in the incident. He thanked the other agencies that responded and offered their assistance.

“I would like to thank the Dadeville Police Department, Jacksons Gap Police and the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department for their assistance with this case,” Potts said.

It was the second high-profile case worked by the Camp Hill Police Department this week.

Bessie Heard, 59, of Camp Hill died in an early Christmas morning shooting on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

Bystanders at the scene described more than 15 shots being fired about 2 a.m. and said an argument lead to the shooting.

Potts said they have identified some people they would like to talk to in relation to the shooting, but said no arrest had been made as of 3 p.m. Wednesday.

Wilkerson has a lengthy criminal history with a multitude of charges dating back to 2007. Charges range from drug and weapons charges, assault, chemical endangerment of a child, traffic charges and multiple probation revocations, Court records show his most recent charges came just two weeks ago on Dec. 12 for drug possession.

Fatality

Page 3

www.alexcityoutlook.com

The Outlook

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Camp Hill police officials have been busy investigating this week as there has been a murder, and now a robbery. Unrelated to the robbery, a shooting lead to the death of one woman in Camp Hill on Christmas morning. Bessie Heard, 59, of Camp Hill died in an early morning shooting on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Bystanders at the scene described more than 15 shots being fired at about 2 a.m. and said an argument lead to the shooting. Police are still investigating this case.

continued from page 1

On Friday, Barbara Vassallo, 87, was killed when the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox in which she was a passenger left the roadway and struck several trees before overturning. Vassallo passed away from her injuries a short while later at a local hospital.

That fatal crash occurred on Alabama 22 near the 95-mile marker, approximately three miles west of Rockford.

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Council “It’s a no-brainer,” City Attorney Robin Reynolds said. “The city would be better served by the state of Alabama.”

The council approved moving forward on this matter, though Reynolds said he wanted until the next city council meeting to review both the plan submitted to the city and the current contract in place with RDS to ensure the city does not violate the contract.

The council also spent time talking about the issue of dogs running at large throughout town, creating problems such as threatening residents with animals and small children.

Several citizens voiced their concerns and desire for the city to pass an ordinance to address the issue. Mayor Wayne Smith and the council said they were still looking at an effective ordinance that would address all concerns

continued from page 1

and meet everyone’s approval.

“We are not going to be able to pass this tonight, but I want us to soon,” Smith said. “I ask everybody to do their due diligence. We want to find a workable solution for this.”

The Dadeville City Council also discussed the following issues Tuesday night: • Minutes from the Dec. 12 meeting were approved.

• With the Christmas season having recently ended, Reynolds wanted to thank the mayor and council for the recent Christmas dinner put on for town employees, while Smith commended the council members who joined him in the Camp Hill Christmas parade.

• Councilwoman Brownie Caldwell reported the equipment and supplies to upgrade the gas line between

the Methodist church and Fred’s have arrived, and the town was simply waiting on the company to do the work to finish up another job before work would start.

• Councilwoman Teneesha Goodman-Johnson said she was still working hard on bringing the Boys & Girls Club back to Dadeville, as well as setting up a beautification board. Local resident Rayford Farrington recently agreed to serve on the board as a representative from District Two, giving the board its first member.

• Councilman Roy Mathis commended the Dadeville Police Department for its cooperation with the Camp Hill Police Department during the Christmas morning shooting in Camp Hill. Mathis also asked Police Chief David Barbour to pass along his appreciation to the Jacksons’ Gap Police Department for assisting with

calls in Dadeville during this time.

• Councilman Dick Harrelson said he had not heard from the man who was working with the city on striping several streets throughout town, but it was suggested this might be due to the holiday season.

• Work was preparing to resume on the demolition grant, possibly as soon as mid-February.

• Road work signs along Lafayette Street were beginning to come down, though there was still one little spot that needed touching up.

• Having recently met with the other parties involved with the Courthouse Square project, Smith said the work could be ready for bidding out in February.

• A motion to approve an amended resolution was passed. The amended resolution cleaned up

some of the verbiage on a resolution passed two weeks ago for the city to take action against a Hatcher Street residence in violation of the weed and nuisance abatement ordinance.

• The Highway 49 North water project was almost completed, with just a tiny area still left to finish.

• Fire Chief Anthony Wilkerson asked the council for approval to submit an application for a FEMA Fire Grant, which would allow the Dadeville Fire Department to purchase a new fire engine and a Cascade system to help fill up the air tanks on the department turnout gear.

The council approved giving Wilkerson this authority.

• One recreation center rental request was approved.

The next meeting of the Dadeville City Council will be Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2018, beginning with a pre-council meeting at 5:30 p.m.

MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213

editor@alexcityoutlook.com

EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Page 4

Our

Is there an app for a return to simplicity?

View

Take steps to prevent I trouble from cold temperatures

I

t doesn’t take a meteorologist or a rocket scientist to figure out that it is getting colder in a hurry.

It has been downright nippy at times and a quick look ahead at the forecast shows that we are in for a real dose of arctic air early next week to welcome the new year. As a matter of fact, Alabama could see lows in the teens Monday.

While we can throw on a heavier coat and gloves, we need to think about things other than ourselves.

Being cold is one thing, but no one needs to add household disaster on top of that.

Pipes are the most important things to protect in the home because plumbing repairs and the damage associated with broken pipes can be the costliest.

Insulating exposed copper pipes from the cold and even putting faucet covers on outdoor faucets are great places to start.

It may also be a good idea to remove hoses from any outdoor faucets as well.

Also allow the faucets inside of your home to drip slowly during nights with subfreezing temperatures.

In addition a homeowner might want to open cabinet doors under sinks to help expose pipes running along outside walls.

Potted plants have a tough time surviving subfreezing temperatures, so anything that needs warmer temperatures, bring them inside or cover them to protect from the extreme cold.

For the ones in the ground, the truth is, they will either make it or they won’t.

A little extra mulch or straw around the roots can’t hurt.

Pets aren’t like that.

Pets should be brought inside when the temperature drops below freezing. If a pet must stay outside, a shelter should be available stocked with old blankets, hay or wheat straw.

So let’s all plan ahead to avoid potential problems as Mother Nature gives us the cold shoulder this weekend and early next week.

Know Your

Officials

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

Jim Nabors

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

Bobby Tapley

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

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

Buffy Colvin

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

Scott Hardy

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

Eric Brown

Tommy Spraggins represents District 5.

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

Tommy Spraggins

Tim Funderburk represents District 6.

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

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Tim Funderburk

hope that all of my readers enjoyed a Merry Christmas earlier this week and I wish each of you the happiest New Year.

How was my Christmas? As an answer, let me just introduce myself: Granger. David Granger.

Let’s just say before Christmas morning was over I felt as if I had landed smack dab in the middle of one of James Bond’s films.

As usual these days I’m a bit behind the times. In this case, in fact, I’m a Fitbit behind the times, as in one of those new watches that measures several health- and fitness-related statistics as you go throughout your day.

Let’s get this straight right out of the box: I’m no health nut, but I suppose that I could at least better monitor my heart and exercise. But the real reason that I requested a Fitbit was all the other functions it allows me. I’m notified of emails and phone calls with a vibration on my wrist. With a pair of Bluetooth earbuds, I can even carry on the telephone conversation I’m notified of on my watch.

Truly James Bond-like stuff.

I remember when my wife and I first started dating in the mid 1990s and she bought for me my first cellphone (She actually got it for a penny with the purchase of her own phone, but, of course, she didn’t fess up to that for a bit.) It was

Tonka toy trucks. Those days brought a sense of community to our cities and towns that our younger ones, these days usually inside exercising their DAVID thumbs at the latest gaming GRANGER console, cannot match.

Managing Yes, things have changed Editor a bit thanks to the leaps and about the size and weight of a bounds in technology we’ve experienced since the 1980s brick. when the personal computer Now I can walk down first made an appearance. the street and, properly accessorized, talk to my broker These days the only slide rules via my watch. As soon as I find are those that apply in the playground and calculators are – or need – a broker, anyway. perhaps the most boring apps It truly makes you wonder on our cellphones. Now we where technology is headed use our miniaturized electronic next. We can’t do too much devices to do anything from more miniaturizing or our play games to manage our technological gadgets will all but disappear. Almost the only finances.

But with technology, as thing imaginable left to do is we’ve seen this past year, come implant circuits in our bodies breaches where the criminaland, I don’t know about you, minded can do anything from but that just seems to me too use our credit cards to securing “1984” obtrusive. all of the information necessary Still, I doubt that the to steal our complete identities. computer industry is going So, yes, this Christmas to miniaturize itself out of I became Granger. David business, so it’s likely we’ll see Granger. more capabilities added to our But I can see the time when already tiny devices.

But with technology comes I wish for a Christmas and a life that was simpler. Much not only gain, but loss, too. simpler.

And at no time is a portion of If only there was an app for that loss brought to mind more that. than at Christmas.

I remember the Christmases David Granger is of my childhood when front managing editor of Tallapoosa lawns were full on Christmas Publishers’ Elmore County morning with kids on new newspapers.

He can be bicycles, out throwing brand reached at david.granger@ new Christmas footballs thewetumpkaherald.com and playing with shiny new

Today’s

Quote

“We have a strategic plan.

It’s called doing things.”

—Herb Kelleher

Today’s

Scripture

“The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

—Luke 2:20

alexcityoutlook.com

Daily Poll Wednesday Question: Do you have plans for New Year’s Eve and/or Day?

No – 67%, 14 votes Yes – 33%, 7 votes

Thursday Question: Do you own a Fitbit or some other type of smart watch?

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

Our

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.

NFL attendance not suffering from boycott

O

ne of the biggest stories in the NFL has been the attempt to boycott the NFL games due to former San Francisco QB Colin Kaepernick taking a knee during the National Anthem. Boycott supporters claim their efforts are hurting attendance. Is that the case?

“At least 24 players kneeling this weekend at NFL stadiums that are now having a very hard time filing up,” Donald Trump tweeted over the weekend.

“The American public is fed up with the disrespect the NFL is paying to our Country, our Flag and our National Anthem.

Weak and out of control!”

The controversy began last year when San Francisco QB Colin Kaepernick chose to take a knee during the National Anthem, to protest the shootings of unarmed AfricanAmerican males. Before the end of the year, Kaepernick opted out of his contract with the 49ers, hoping to make more money on the free agency market. But it didn’t happen. While he claims it is racism (the number of AfricanAmerican players, even QBs in the NFL doesn’t support that view) my research found that his low QB rating, inaccurate passing, fumbles and sacks, along with his 1-10 record as a starter had more to do being unsigned, despite a favorable TD-to-interception rate and rushing touchdowns.

The matter might have ended there, until Donald Trump visited Alabama and slammed the NFL for not harshly disciplining Kaepernick (who was not on any team at the time, and still isn’t). More players took a knee, more in support of Kaepernick’s right to do so last year. Meanwhile, Trump was running campaign ads during NFL games as the

2016 to 2017, reveals six teams with an increase of more than 1,000 fans per game from last year and six teams with a decrease of more than 1,000 fans per game from last JOHN TURES year. The other 19 teams had Columnist increases or decreases of less 49ers QB was taking a knee. than 1,000 fans (excluding the In response, some Trump Chargers, of course). There’s supporters sought to only little change between 2016 boycott the NFL, even though and 2017, and the numbers players in the NBA, Major are above 2015 attendance.

League Baseball, and other Business Insider agrees. sports joined in the movement But what about those empty to take a knee, which makes seats? To study those, I went you wonder if this is more to Fox News for the answer. about how his USFL failed “Empty seats have become a after three years of competing recurring problem for several with the NFL in the 1980s. franchises,” wrote Rob Foldy.

In addition to Trump’s “So far on the year, 10 teams tweets, Breitbart News ran an are playing to stadiums that article about NFL attendance, are less than 95 percent full, citing photos of empty seats up from just five teams in posted to Twitter, trying 2008, per Will Graves of the to make the argument that Associated Press.” their boycott has led to poor Right now, boycott attendance. Are NFL critics supporters are cheering this right? I look at evidence from story. Perhaps I should have attendance, rather than pregame warned you first that this and postgame pics. article was written in 2013, In 2015, before the years before the controversy. controversy, the NFL averaged Their evidence for empty seats 68,400 fans per game. In 2016, came from a Sports Business ESPN data showed that 68,772 Journal survey, citing improved fans per game, not counting at-home viewing experience the San Diego (now Los and increased ticket prices.

Angeles Chargers, who moved In other words, those empty to a much smaller stadium, seats you see at before and making a direct comparison after games for the hapless problematic…and the average Dolphins or 49ers are unrelated is 68,939 without San Diego). to the boycott, unless you In 2017, through seven games, really believe that people are it’s 69,177.29 per game spending $150 per ticket for without the L.A. Chargers, game ($1,200) and deliberately or 67,806.81, so average staying home, just to show the attendance is up. Even if you NFL. If so, I’m sure the NFL ignore the fact that the Chargers doesn’t mind the extra business are playing in a much smaller it’s getting. stadium, and don’t want to compare apples to apples, any John A. Tures is a professor “boycott” is having a negligible of political science at LaGrange effect (238.29 fans per game, if College in LaGrange, Georgia. you don’t control for S.D.).

He can be reached at jtures@ Analysis of each team, lagrange.edu. His Twitter comparing attendance from account is JohnTures2.

How to

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The subscription rate is $136.00 per year in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and $177.99 outside the area. Periodicals paid at Alexander City, AL. Newspapers are available at 100 news racks in our area at 75 cents for The Outlook and 50 cents for The Record. We would love to deliver a paper to your door. Call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281, Ext. 204 or e-mail david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook. com.

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Thursday, December 28, 2017

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Today’s Anniversaries

Jon and Ashley Manley, Bobby and Janice Adair and Connie and Mike Jackson are celebrating their anniversaries today.

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

Shirley Salter and Journee Moten are celebrating their birthdays today.

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Looking for something to do with your Christmas tree now that the season is over? The Central Alabama Electric Cooperative has just the place for you. You can keep your live Christmas tree green by dropping it off at a CAEC recycling center located in the parking lots of the Alexander City, Clanton, Millbrook, Prattville and Wetumpka Winn Dixie stores. The Winn Dixie in Alexander City is located in the Marketplace Shopping Center on Highway 280. Trees should be un-decorated and can be dropped off now through Jan. 3, 2018.

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Saturday, December 30

FAMILY GAME NIGHT: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have Family Game Night Bingo from 5:00 until 8:00 Saturday, Dec. 30. There will be hot dogs, pizza, chips, and soft drinks.

Wednesday, January 3

MONTHLY LUNCHEON: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have their Monthly Luncheon on Wednesday Jan 3 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Please bring a covered dish and a small donation.

Monday, January 8

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Craigger Browne will present “Tribute to Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Jan. 8 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education.

Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple.

Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8.

January 8-9

Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy 2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com

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

THROW AWAY DAYS: The Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership and the Tallapoosa County Commission are holding Throw Away Days January 8-9. Dumpsters will be located at the Alex City Annex at 395 Lee Street, Double Bridges on Highway 63, the Old Daviston School on Highway 22, the Camp Hill Town Hall at 309 Holley Ave. and the Union Community Center at 4191 Highway 50. Dumpsters will be available at no charge to residents.

Saturday, January 13

BOOK SALE: The Friends of the Dadeville Public Library will host a book sale on the lower level of the Dadeville Library Saturday, Jan. 13 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fill a grocery bag for $5 or three bags for just $15.

MLK PRAYER BREAKFAST: The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Prayer breakfast will be Saturday, Jan. 13 at the Stephens Elementary Gym at 8 a.m. Tickets are $10.

Monday, January 15

Need your business to

STAND OUT from the crowd?

MLK CELEBRATION: The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration will be Monday, Jan. 15. It will start with a parade at 9 a.m. beginning at Stephens Elementary School and a program at the Stephens Elementary School gym at 11 a.m.

Call us, we can help!

256.234.4281

Tuesday, January 16

BEEKEEPING COURSE: The 2018 Beginner Beekeeping Course will start Jan. 16 and will be on Tuesdays • Alexander City Outlook through Feb. 20 from 6:30 p.m. to • Dadeville Record 8:30 p.m. at the Dadeville Recreation • Wetumpka Herald Center. Cost is $45 for adults and $35 • Eclectic Observer for students Call the Extension Office • Tallassee Tribune at 256-825-1050 and the deadline for registration is Jan. 11.

COMPUTER CLASSES: The Adelia M. Russell Library is offering computer classes in 2018. One program is for beginners, with a separate advanced program for individuals seeking to move beyond the basics.

The advanced class is aimed at anyone wanting to improve their skill Darrell Brooks, Owner set and/or enhance their employment opportunities. The basic classes Cutting •Edging will begin January 16, 2018, and the Weed Eating •Mulch advanced classes will begin January Weed Control 18, 2018; each session will last approximately one hour (3 p.m. to 4 p.m.) and will meet for four straight weeks. Classes will be small and the atmosphere will be relaxed.

To sign up simply come by the Adelia M. Russell Library. For more information, call 256-329- 6796. There is no cost to attend.

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Lawn Care

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Sunday, January 21

HISTORICAL SOCIETY MEETING: The Tallapoosee Historical Society will meet at the Historical Museum on the square in Dadeville on Sunday, January 21, 2018 at 2 p.m. Dr. Charles Mitchell will be the speaker.

He will present “A Pictorial History of Alabama Agriculture.” While working at Auburn, Dr. Mitchell accumulated lots of old photographs related to Alabama agriculture. Several years ago, he began organizing them and realized that these old pictures could actually tell the chronological story of Alabama’s agriculture from the Creek Indians to modern production. He will share these photographs with the Tallapoosee Historical Society Please make plans to attend. The meeting is open to the public, there is no admission fee and free refreshments will be served.

Monday, Janurary 22

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: E. Paul Jones will present “Reverend Maxwell” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Jan. 22 starting at 1:30 p.m.at the Alexander City Board of Education.

Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple.

Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8.

Monday, January 29

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Marilee Tankersley will present “Wetumpka Impact Crater” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Jan. 29 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education.

Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple.

Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8.

Monday, February 5

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Glen Willis will present “Forgotten Alabama” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Feb. 5 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education.

Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple.

Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8.

Wednesday, February 7

SITE REVIEW: Central Alabama Community College will host a site review for continuing accreditation of its Associate Degree in Nursing program by the ACEN on Feb. 7 at 3 p.m. in Building J of the Childersburg Campus.

For further information go to the CACC homepage at www.cacc.edu

Monday, February 12

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Peggy Shores will present “Songs from the Heart” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Feb. 12 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education.

Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple.

Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8.

Monday, February 26

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Dr. James Hansen will present “Neil Armstrong” to Horizons Unlimited Monday, Feb. 26 starting at 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education.

Horizons Unlimited membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple.

Registration for winter quarter begins 1 p.m. Jan. 8.

Wednesday, March 29

VIETNAM VETERANS WELCOME HOME: The Auburn Veterans Project is celebrating and reflecting on the service and sacrifice of Vietnam vet-

erans March 29 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Auburn High School Auditorium.

Speakers will be Joe Galloway and Medal of Honor recipients Bennie Adkins and James Livingston. Family is welcome to accompany their veteran and there will be a light reception afterwards.

Visit auburnveteransproect. weebly.com/east-alabama-vietnamveterans-welcome-home-cermony. html. Attendees are asked to RSVP in advance by either emailing Blake Busbin at wbbusbin@auburnschools. org or by calling Auburn High School at 334-887-2120.

April 9-10

THROW AWAY DAYS: The Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership and the Tallapoosa County Commission are holding Throw Away Days April 9-10. Dumpsters will be located at the Alex City Annex at 395 Lee Street, Double Bridges on Highway 63, the Old Daviston School on Highway 22, the Camp Hill Town Hall at 309 Holley Ave. and the Union Community Center at 4191 Highway 50. Dumpsters will be available at no charge to residents.

The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow

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

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

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

July 16-17

THROW AWAY DAYS: The Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership and the Tallapoosa County Commission are holding Throw Away Days July 16-17. Dumpsters will be located at the Alex City Annex at 395 Lee Street, Double Bridges on Highway 63, the Old Daviston School on Highway 22, the Camp Hill Town Hall at 309 Holley Ave. and the Union Community Center at 4191 Highway 50. Dumpsters will be available at no charge to residents.

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700

October 15-16

THROW AWAY DAYS: The Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership and the Tallapoosa County Commission are holding Throw Away Days October 15-16. Dumpsters will be located at the Alex City Annex at 395 Lee Street, Double Bridges on Highway 63, the Old Daviston School on Highway 22, the Camp Hill Town Hall at 309 Holley Ave. and the Union Community Center at 4191 Highway 50. Dumpsters will be available at no charge to residents.

Ongoing Events

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: Red Ridge United Methodist Church in Dadeville hosts an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting every Sunday at 6 p.m.

DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS: The Bill Nichols Chapter 13 meets every third Monday at 5:30 p.m. at the Charles T. “Bud” Porch Center in Alexander City. Chapter Service Officers are available every second and fourth Wednesday from noon to 5 p.m. for claims assistance.

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 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call 256-4092020 for more information.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP: Every second and fourth Sunday at 5 p.m. the Trinity campus of First United Methodist Church will be a caregiver support group. Call 256-786-1685 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.

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Thursday, December 28, 2017

Majorettes Despite there being a couple hundred participants from around the country taking part in the Citrus Bowl halftime show, Fuller said only about 30 of them will be majorettes, with a majority of the group comprising cheerleaders and danceline members, along with a small handful of colorguard members.

This once-in-a-lifetime trip began this morning, as the girls, along with Fuller and another adult chaperone, left New Site at 7 a.m. in order to reach Orlando in time for check-in and fitting to ensure that the outfits are just right for each performer. Following Thursday night’s check-in and orientation, the rest of the weekend is set to be a busy time for the majorettes from Horseshoe Bend to prepare for Monday’s game.

“They’ll start rehearsals Friday evening,” Fuller said.

“They’ll have rehearsals Friday and Saturday evening. On Sunday, they’ll be going to the stadium and spend the whole day there practicing.”

All the participants will return to the stadium Monday morning for one final runthrough of the halftime show before the game kicks off at noon Central time. Following the game, Fuller said the group will stay in Orlando Monday night before returning home Tuesday.

While much of the majorettes’ time will be spent rehearsing the routine for Monday afternoon’s show, Fuller said there will also be plenty of time for the four to have a little fun and enjoy the trip. All-American Halftime Show hosts a handful of special dinners for the participants, and there will also be time to visit and explore both Disney World and Universal Studios.

“The girls are extremely excited. They are such hard workers,” Fuller said. “Every band competition they’ve gone to, they’ve earned either best in show or a superior rating.”

Senior majorettes Brianna Jones and Rebecca Anderson

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both expressed how excited they were to be able to take part in this event, closing out their Horseshoe Bend majorette careers on arguably the highest of high notes.

“It’s amazing. It’s such an adrenaline rush,” Anderson said. “It is such an honor to be told we are just as good as all the others we’ll be participating with. This ranks right up there with getting superiors at our competitions.”

“I’m really excited,” Jones said. “We’re getting to go and perform for a lot of people.

This is the last time I’ll get to perform, so that makes this really special. I’m getting to be with friends, go on this really cool trip and get to perform on New Year’s Day.” In addition to being excited for getting to perform Anderson said she was looking forward to spending some time at Disney World and Universal Studios, while Jones felt it would be cool to get to be around other majorettes from across the United States, learning about how they might do routines differently and making new friends along the way.

Fuller wanted to thank many members of the community for their support. Without them and their financial donations, this trip would not have been possible.

“This is a once-in-alifetime event, so I want to thank everyone for their overwhelming support in helping get us to this event,” she said. “There were so many people helping us. The school system has also been very supportive of us, all the way up to the Board of Education.”

Along with the excitement all four Horseshoe Bend majorettes share in being able to take part in this performance, Fuller said this could also have a great impact on the future of the majorette program at Horseshoe Bend as a whole.

“This may have gotten some girls who were interested in trying out maybe a little more interested in doing so,” she said.

File / The Outlook

Despite the cold, wet New Year’s Eve weather last year, the City of Wetumpka put on an impressive fireworks show as the clock struck midnight to usher in 2017. City officials say to expect the same this year.

Wetumpka to celebrate New Year with recognition, dancing, fireworks, meteor

By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

The City of Wetumpka will hold its annual New Year’s Eve celebration beginning at 9 p.m. Sunday night.

The first event of the night is the recognition of prisoners of war and those soldiers missing in action along the front of the old Elmore County Courthouse.

“We do it in front of the courthouse because that’s where the New Year’s celebration used to be” said Gardner Perdue, who assists the city with the annual celebration. “We just decided that we would continue the POW/MIA recognition where we’d always had it.”

The celebration will then move to the parking lot behind the administration building where DJ Shaun Singleton of DJG Entertainment will provide the music for the hours of fun and frivolity leading up to the new year.

This is the fifth year the celebration has been held in its current location.

As in years past, when the clock

strikes midnight there will be fireworks and a meteor will streak through the air in Gold Star Park near the parking lot.

“We hope everything goes well with the meteor this year,” Perdue said, referencing the fact that the meteor did not go off last year. “The man who does the meteor for us has assured us that it will.”

Perdue said he has big plans for the meteor in the years to come, must obtain some approvals to make them happen.

“What I want is for the meteor to begin its run on the other side of the river and then travel to Gold Star Park side,” Perdue said. “I have to get approval from the Army Corps of Engineers to make that happen, but I’m going to work on it.”

After last year’s torrential rains which kept crowds down and likely kept the meteor from its path, Perdue hopes for good weather this New Year’s Eve. “The weather was tough last year with all the rain,” Perdue said. “Let’s hope we get a little better weather this time.”

LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228

lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com

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Thursday, December 28, 2017

www.alexcityoutlook.com

ANDY GRAHAM Columnist

New Year’s resolutions for Auburn I

certainly hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and I want to personally wish everyone a very prosperous and fulfilling new year.

Now that Dec. 25 has come and gone, it’s inevitable our minds look forward into 2018 and contemplate the possibilities of what the future might hold.

Yeah, yeah, we’re all going to eat better and exercise more.

Sure we are. I might even start back trying to read through my list of the 100 greatest novels of the 20th century if I can find the time. What’s on your New Year’s resolutions list?

Here are five New Year’s resolutions I have for the Auburn Tigers in 2018.

1. Beat Central Florida.

There’s no better way to start off the new year than winning the Peach Bowl on Jan. 1. The Knights are a formidable opponent and the only undefeated team left in the FBS. Auburn would reach the 11-win plateau for only the seventh time in program history with a victory, so that’s a big deal.

Central Florida is the highest scoring team in college football this year, putting up over 49 points a game. The upstarts from Orlando seem to have a lot of confidence in themselves.

Auburn better be ready to play.

2. Hire an exceptional athletic director.

Jay Jacobs has been in charge of the Auburn athletic department for the last 13 years. While he could boast a list of accomplishments during that time, I believe the job has always been a little too big for him.

Several programs are mired in controversy and there’s definitely been a lack of leadership starting at the top. Auburn needs to hire a strong leader from outside “the family” to clean up a few messes and clean out a little dead wood from within the department.

3. Actually make a postseason basketball tournament.

It’s been 14 years since Auburn made an appearance in the NCAA Tournament. It’s been eight years since the Tigers even made it to the NIT. There’s a ton of controversy swirling around the program this season, but somehow the team is off to its best start since 1999.

Just a .500 record in the SEC would be enough to get it done.

Bruce Pearl is doing his best job of coaching this year and these players deserve some good fortune.

4. Put together back-to-back 10 win seasons.

Auburn is a top 15 program in the history of college football, but have been able to put together back-to-back 10-win seasons only one time (1988 and 1989).

Gus Malzahn has a lot coming back in 2018. The schedule will be difficult, but it’s always difficult in the SEC. The recruiting has been very good and there’s finally stability in the coaching staff.

I’d actually like to see this happen again before I’m too senile to enjoy it.

5. Have a calendar year with no major embarrassments.

I understand there are always going to be minor issues that have to be dealt with on occasion. It’s unavoidable with that many 18- to 22-year-olds essentially left to their own devices.

However, it shouldn’t be that difficult not to have an assistant coach arrested by the FBI or fired for inappropriate relationships with students.

Andy Graham is a regular columnist for The Outlook.

LAST-MINUTE LOSS

BRHS gives up lead with 4th-quarter miscues

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

The game plan for Benjamin Russell’s boys basketball team heading into Wednesday night’s Slam Fest game against Russell County was simple: Eliminate turnovers, take advantage of easy scoring opportunities and rebound the ball better.

After doing all three of those things fairly well in the first three quarters of the game, the Wildcats were rewarded with a lead heading into the final frame. Then things fell apart.

“I just feel like we’re not really used to winning, that’s how I see it,” Benjamin Russell’s Quin Burroughs said. “We’ve lost a lot of games this season, but when we’re losing, we’re losing by turnovers. When we got to the fourth quarter, it was just a little shaky. We just need to fix the little things, the little kinks that’ll make us better.”

With only nine turnovers to their name after three quarters, the Wildcats committed eight fourth-quarter miscues and handed the Warriors a 65-58 victory.

“Part of our focus is we’ve got to learn to finish games,” Benjamin Russell coach Lewis Daniel said. “We do well for three quarters or three-and-ahalf quarters of a ballgame, but what always seems to come back to bite us are those last couple minutes. We’re fighting to keep the game close then we run into some of those things we’ve been fighting — turnovers, not knocking down

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Russell County’s Damon Lloyd, left, defends Benjamin Russell’s Jaden Tuck during Wednesday’s Slam Fest game.

free throws and missing layup opportunities.”

With 2:02, Za Stowes grabbed a steal and hit a fastbreak layup to tie the game at 58-58 after the Wildcats had been down by as many as seven in the fourth quarter.

But following turnover after turnover, Benjamin Russell (2-7) was forced to foul, and the Warriors knocked down seven straight free throws to close out the win.

Despite the loss, there were a couple bright spots for the Wildcats.

Defensively, they looked more aggressive than they have all season, especially in the first half. They put on an intense full-court and halfcourt press that gave Russell County fits early.

“We came out purposefully with a little bit more defensive intensity, and we trapped a little bit more than we normally do,” Daniel said.

“It’s part of the strategy to get our kids better conditioned to do those things.”

On the boards, BRHS also looked hungrier, despite

being outrebounded 27-22.

Burroughs led the way with seven rebounds, and Alex Doss had five.

“We were boxing out a lot in the first three quarters,” Burroughs said. “Then the last quarter, we just got a little sleepy. I could tell there was a lot of fatigue.”

Stowes led the Wildcat offense with 16 points, and Jaden Tuck added nine.

Benjamin Russell drops to the consolation bracket, and will play Loachapoka at 2 p.m. today.

Wildcats hunting down regional championship

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

For just the second time in the state of Alabama, dual wrestling regional championships are on the line, and Benjamin Russell is in good shape to potentially take home the Class 6A Region 2 title today.

The Wildcats head to Oxford today to start a roundrobin tournament at 9 a.m. and will face the likes of Opelika, Russell County and Pell City throughout the day. The top two teams out of the region will advance to the state duals tournament, which is held between Jan. 21 and 24.

Having defeated Opelika twice and Russell County once, the Wildcats (19-7) are feeling pretty good about their chances, but it will take a turnaround of a loss to the Oxford Yellow Jackets earlier this season.

“It’s going to come down to who gets the most pins and who doesn’t get pins,” BRHS coach Michael Ransaw said.

“If you do it on paper and all the matches go the way I think

about four or five bouts where Benjamin Russell should have the edge and about four or five in favor of Oxford, but the difference will be those swing matches.

Another team that could pose a challenge is Opelika.

BRHS defeated the Bulldogs, 66-9, early in the season, but Opelika had a big turnaround when the teams battled at the Red Devils Duals and the Wildcats escaped with a 39-36 victory.

“Opelika has stepped up their game,” Ransaw said.

“When we beat them pretty bad, they had a bunch of football players in there that weren’t ready yet. They Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook gave us a tougher match because those guys are now Benjamin Russell’s Jy Harvey, bottom, battles against Wetumpka’s conditioned and know what Mason Blackwell last week. The Wildcats head to the Region 2 Duals to expect on the mat, so I Championship today at Oxford. think Opelika will have a nice up the key players and key they will, it could go either showing.” matchups,” Ransaw said. way.”

Ransaw isn’t sure what to “Oxford shifted their lineup Oxford earned a 36-33 expect from Pell City, but he around to try to beat us the last said the Panthers have two or victory over the Wildcats at time we faced us, and I think the Clint McCall Duals two three wrestlers who should he’s going to put his lineup weeks ago. “make it interesting.” back to his original lineup for “To be honest, it’s like a The Wildcats have defeated this one.” football coach getting a game Russell County, 72-12 and Ransaw said there are plan ready and trying to match 75-6.

Rebels go 1-1 at holiday tourney scored double figures, putting up 14 and 10 points, respectively.

Reeltown’s girls Thomas also had five basketball team has rebounds and six steals, already surpassed its as the Rebels (3-4) win total from a year did a fine job on the ago after going 1-1 at boards. last week’s Holiday Stoneback and Eryn Hoops Tournament.

Wells both pulled After falling to down seven rebounds Booker T. Washington, apiece, while Marsheka 50-29, on Thursday, Shaw had six and Nyla the Rebels turned right Hayden also grabbed around and grabbed a five. Taniya Haynes convincing 55-37 win stuffed the stat sheet over Wadley on Friday. with seven points, four Against the Bulldogs, rebounds, seven assists both Ashlynn Thomas and a steal. and Ariyana Stoneback On the first day of STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

the tournament, the Rebels were defensively stifled, as no player had more than seven points.

Wells contributed 13 of the Rebels’ 30 rebounds, and Mikiya Jones, Thomas, Shaw and Stoneback each had two steals apiece.

After defeating Pike Road on the first day of the tourney, Reeltown’s boys team picked up another narrow victory on Day 2. The Rebels defeated Holtville, 68-62, and take a 4-3 record into the new year.

LOCAL SPORTS CALENDAR Thursday, Dec. 28 High school boys basketball BRHS Slam Fest Game 6: Game 3 loser vs. Game 4 loser, 2 p.m.

Game 7: Game 1 winner vs. Marbury 4 p.m.

Game 8: Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 6 p.m.

Other games Central Coosa vs.

Hampton (Georgia) in Coosa River Classic at Childersburg, 5:30 p.m.

High school wrestling Benjamin Russell at Regional Duals in Oxford, 10 a.m.

Friday, Dec. 29 High school boys basketball BRHS Slam Fest Game 10: Game 7 loser vs. Game 8 loser, noon Game 11: Consolation final: Game 1 loser vs.

Game 6 loser, 2 p.m.

Game 12: Championship, 4 p.m.

Other games Central Coosa vs.

Childersburg in Coosa River Classic at Childersburg, 4 p.m.

High school wrestling Benjamin Russell at Wetumpka tournament, TBA