June 7, 2018 Alex City Outlook

THURSDAY

THE

LOCAL, PAGE 5

SPORTS, PAGE 10

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

Residents enjoy Sun Festival bingo

Tigers on tap for youth football camp

June 7, 2018 Vol. 126, No. 113 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢

SUIT FILED:

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Most people knew it was only a matter of time, but former Alexander City Finance Director Sandra Machen has now made it official – filing a lawsuit against former mayor Charles Shaw, the city and others who the complaint alleges caused her serious personal and professional damage.

The suit, which is dated May 31 but was discovered Wednesday by The Outlook, alleges that Shaw and the other defendants

Machen sues city & former mayor alleging she experienced libel, slander, defamation, mental anguish and emotional distress

“intentionally, negligently, recklessly, maliciously, willfully, and/or wantonly, harmedâ€? Machen. The five-count complaint alleges libel, slander and defamation, outrage and negligence and that Machen suffered mental anguish and emotional distress. “It is important to note that named in this lawsuit is not only the city of Alexander City, but also Charles Shaw,â€? Amanda Hardy, one of the attorneys representing Machen, said. “By and through his conduct while serving as the mayor, the city became liable for the See MACHEN • Page 3

Former Alex City Finance Director Sandra Machen is suing the city and former mayor Charles Shaw alleging they caused her serious personal and professional damage.

File / The Outlook

Martin, Oliver reflect on primary night success Cliff Williams / The Outlook

House District 81 GOP candidates talk strategies for runoff; voters turn out in expected numbers

ACFD Chief Reese McAlister shows street address signs to Tallapoosa County Commissioner T.C. Coley as he seeks funds for Alex City residents.

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

Fire department set to give away street number signs

When Mark Tuggle announced he would not seek re-election to his seat, representing District 81 in the Alabama House of Representatives, this set in motion a free-for-all in the Republican Party Martin to find a candidate to succeed him. Derrick Blythe, Joyful “Joy�

Johns, Terry Martin and Ed Oliver all put their names in the ring to be the GOP nominee for the general election in November.

When the votes were Oliver tallied and the final results were in Tuesday night, Martin and Oliver were the top two vote getters. However, neither received a majority of the ballots cast in the district, so they will be heading to a runoff election on July 17.

See ELECTION • Page 9

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Alexander City Fire Chief Reese McAlister saw an issue and has taken matters into his own hands.

After years of chasing calls to homes with no clearly marked address extending response times, McAlister has figured out a way to help his fellow Alexander City firefighters find their next call. “We have to think about our ambulance response,� McAlister said. “It is sickening the number of homes without numbers.�

McAlister explained homes without clearly marked numbers lead to problems. “People wonder why it takes so See SIGNS • Page 3

Community gathers for a night of worship n Photos by Cliff Williams J Josh Collum, above, of 49 North s sings at Wednesday night’s Sun F Festival Faith Night as guests stand a worship to the music, left. and J Justin Peters and Nathan Prophitt a performed, opening for 49 also N North.

Tallapoosa County Commiss sioner Steve Robinson lead a Bible t trivia game prior to the music.

iRead summer reading program launches

The alpaca, a relative to the llama, enjoyed the attention it received from children at the petting zoo as part of the iRead summer reading program Wednesday.

Area children enjoy animal show, community reader, more

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

A crowd of nearly 300 children from local organizations including Jacob’s Ladder, the Boys & Girls Club and Harbor Learning Academy congregated at Stephens Elementary School Wednesday morning for the first session of the 2018 iRead summer reading program.

Donald Campbell / The Outlook

Today’s

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Under the oversight of local teacher Jeri-Lynn Martin and the sponsorship of several local individuals and organizations, participants can see exciting demonstrations and performances, listen to special guests read to them and take part in a number of exciting activities, all while learning to enjoy reading. “This is our fifth year of doing this See READING • Page 3

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Fake flower prompts emotional reaction from offended widow

Friday

90 69 High

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Mostly sunny, slight chance t-storms

Saturday

89 69 Low

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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

Thursday, June 7, 2018

The Outlook

Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com 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 Katie Wesson Retail Sales Manager, Ext. 232 tkatie.wesson@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Digital Marketing Coordinator, Ext. 231 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Jessica Ware Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 jessica.ware@alexcityoutlook.com Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 219 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 219 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com Erin Burton Office Assistant, Ext. 204 erin.burton@alexcityoutlook.com

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) Kenneth Boone The Outlook is published five times Photography and a week, Tuesday through Saturday a commercial web mornings, by Tallapoosa Publish- printing press. ers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.

Postal

DEAR ABBY: My brother-inlaw died a month ago and was cremated by the local affiliate of a prominent funeral home. To make it easier for my sister, I accompanied her to the mortuary to pick up her husband’s remains. I walked in alone, and as I returned to the car with his urn, a young funeral home employee in a black suit and scuffed shoes followed me.

Through the window of the car, he presented my sister an artificial red rose and said, “We’re sorry for your loss.”

My sister and I were appalled by the insincerity of this gesture, and I called and told the funeral home director that the sentiments were as phony as the rose. He said, “I thought it was a great idea,” and couldn’t understand our reaction. Were we wrong? -- RESENTING PHONY SENTIMENTS DEAR RESENTING: Yes, you were. When people are grieving, emotions are some-

DEAR ABBY Advice

times raw, so I’m not going to scold you. However, your response to the young man was ungracious. All that needed to be said was, “No, thank you.”

DEAR ABBY: My mother-inlaw keeps buying us decorator items that don’t have a place in our home. While I appreciate the effort and the thought, I have no more closet space in which to store them. I was taught to accept gifts and express gratitude, even if you don’t like them.

My mother-in-law is coming to visit in a few weeks, and my husband insists we should display the items she’s purchased for us. This would entail putting

holes in my walls, as she tends to get us items that need to be hung. I don’t think we should have to go through this charade just to appease her. It will only encourage her to buy us more things. What should I do? -- NO MORE CLOSET GIFTS DEAR N.M.C.G.: It won’t destroy your home to display one (or two) of the items your MIL has given you while she’s visiting. But while she’s there, make sure she opens the closet where you have stored all the other items she has sent “because she’s such a generous doll you can’t possibly use them all.” When she leaves, sell the gifts or donate them, then pray she takes the hint.

the future he may come to love me. Should I continue with this, and is there a future for me?

-- HOPEFUL IN TELANGANA, INDIA DEAR HOPEFUL: For many people, liking and respecting someone would make the person a candidate for marriage.

The bad news is, the man you care so much about is not one of them. The good news is, there are many eligible, emotionally available men who might value what you have to offer.

Time is precious. If you want your future to be a happy one, be glad your friend with benefits has been honest with you, cut your losses and look elsewhere for love.

DEAR ABBY: I need your advice. I’m in love with a wonderful man. He says he likes and respects me but does not love me. I desperately want his love, but have agreed to be friends with benefits in the hope that in

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

Obituaries Ressie Bob Smith Toland 1924 - 2018 Funeral Service for Ressie Bob Smith Toland, 94, of Kellyton, Alabama, will be Thursday, June 7, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home.

Minister David Rozelle will officiate. Burial will follow in Greenview Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 7, 2018 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home.

Ms. Toland passed away on Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at Goodwater Healthcare Center. She was born on March 28, 1924 in Millerville, Alabama to Bowden Smith and Addie Cornelia Riddle Smith.

She loved her family dearly. She worked and retired from the Russell Corporation after many years. She was a member of Bradford United Methodist Church. She also enjoyed planting flowers, quilting, sewing, gospel music, and trav-

eling to the beach, and the mountains.

She is survived by her son, James Toland (Pat); daughters, Linda Graham (Bruce), and Nancy Bavar (Cecil); grandchildren, Misty Wade (Adam), Celeste Thornton (Travis), Chris Steadman (Alyssa), Todd Steadman, James Ellis Toland, Jr. (Beth), Amy Way, and LeLe Dean (Jeff); and sixteen great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Charles Roger Toland; sisters, Myrtle Smith Strong, Musette Smith Martin, Coy Smith Barnett, and Ethelyne Smith Harris; and a brother, Ellis J. Smith.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s church of choice.

Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.

Mr. Derrick Simmons Mr. Derrick Simmons 49 of Virginia Beach, VA died on June 4, 2018. Final arrangements pending.

Final Arrangements Entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Funeral Home.

Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Information

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.

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.

SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law 135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL

825-9559 No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

YOU’RE NOT A SUBSCRIBER? Call 256-234-4281 and subscribe to The Outlook www.alexcityoutlook.com

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

Rockin’ and Reading Children at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City were treated to music and laughs from Rockin’ & Reading with Leonardo Wednesday morning. The Chicago-based performer is a Parents’ Choice Award winning family musician with a humorous high energy musical program that inspires little rockers to become big readers. This highly interactive performance featured plenty of sing-a-longs and dance moves to inspire imagination, creativity and a love of reading.

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256-329-1313 217 Madison Street, Alexander City, AL “We are a Debt Relief Agency. We help people file Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 under the Bankruptcy Code. Alabama State Bar requires the following in every attorney advertisement, “ No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

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Thursday, June 7, 2018

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The Outlook

Alexander City Fire Chief Reese McAlister shows street address signs to Tallapoosa County Commissioner T.C. Coley that McAlister is seeking funding for Alexander City residents.

Brother Wayne Cowhick from Alexander City Independent Methodist Church reads the book ‘Barnyard Boogie’ to the children gathered at Wednesday’s first installment of the iRead summer reading program.

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Signs

continued from page 1

long to get there,” he said. “We can’t find out. We will drive by and have to turn around and come back.”

The time wasted looking for a home could be the difference in life or death when someone needs medical treatment.

The issue led McAlister to look around at options.

“Kellyton has done this before,” he said. “The cost is $6 a sign, but I want to give them away. I don’t want to charge residents anything. I am going to give away as many as I can.”

To help jump start the program, Tallapoosa County Commissioner T.C. Coley gave the fire department $2,000 to get things started.

“I am happy to get it started with more than 300 signs,” Coley said. “I hope others can help out as well. This will help first responders get to calls faster hopefully providing a better outcome.”

The blue reflective signs with reflective white numbers come in kits for the department to assemble by sticking the numbers on the sign and can be installed quickly.

“They have holes predrilled for however you want to put it up,” McAlister said. “It can go on a post and be seen from both sides or up on a house.”

McAlister said they will distribute the signs much like the successful smoke detector give away, by calling the fire department at 256-329-6781.

“We are going to do it the same way we did the smoke detectors, first come first serve,” he said.

McAlister wants to remind everyone to do something to help first responders locate victims.

“If you have house numbers already, check on them,” McAlister said. “Clean them up and make sure they can be seen from the street.”

Donald Campbell / The Outlook

Reading

continued from page 1

program,” Martin said. “We had 288 children here today.”

Beginning with an exciting animal show from the Georgiabased group Wildlife Wonders, the morning continued with a petting zoo provided by Wildlife Wonders, a community reader, popsicles to cool off and lunch provided through the Alexander City Schools summer feeding program. The community reader for Wednesday was Brother Wayne Cowhick, the pastor of Alexander City Independent Methodist Church, who read one of his favorite books to the children, “Barnyard Boogie.”

During the program, Martin asked a couple of the children what they enjoyed most about the summer reading events.

“I get to check out free books, take them home and meet new friends,” Graham Cromer said.

“Today was my favorite show.”

“I learn new stuff and I can talk about it with my friends,” Kenneth Sandoval said. “The magic show from last summer was my favorite.”

Martin also wanted to take the time Wednesday morning to thank one of the sponsors for the iRead summer reading program, Pediatric Associates and Dr. Eric

Tyler.

“He has such a heart for students to increase their reading and literacy skills,” Martin said.

“He also helps make sure these children have a way to get books.

The books you see in these cases, the children will get to take some of them home today.”

As the children made their way to the Stephens lunchroom for lunch, the excitement from getting up close with a variety of animals and receiving free books to read at their own pace showed the 2018 iRead summer reading program is set to be another wonderful time for all involved.

Machen harm caused to Mrs. Machen. The city of Alexander City is a wonderful place to live and to work, however the environment created

by Mr. Shaw and others during Mrs. Machen’s time of employment were so outrageous and so malicious that those who caused Mrs. Machen harm should be held liable.”

The document seeks compensatory, punitive and unspecified monetary “special damages, in an amount adequate to compensate the (Machen) for damages presumed or implied by law under the circumstances, compensatory damages, and punitive damages in an amount to be determined by the triers of fact, and the costs of these proceedings, to include interests and all expenses allowable by law.”

“The city was made aware of the acts of the mayor and of others, was responsible for resolving the issues, and failed to do so,” Hardy said. “It is hoped that by and through this action, among other things, that the city will take precautionary and preventative measures to ensure that no other person employed by the city will endure what Mrs. Machen has. All of us have the right to go to work free from hostility and harassment and the law protects employees from abuse and unreasonable working conditions.”

The suit is currently assigned to Judge Ray Martin, but no court dates have been set at this time.

The complaint was filed

by Birmingham-based attorneys Hardy and Robert Echols.

Machen’s time as finance director was marked a contentious relationship with Shaw.

Her employment with the city ended for good on Nov. 7, 2016 when a newly elected city council did not reappoint Machen to the post, ending the rollercoaster ride she had been strapped into during her time with the city.

Before that, Shaw made three attempts to remove her from the position in a little more than two years.

Machen had been previously dismissed on Sept. 18, 2015 and again on July 22, 2016, but on each occasion, she was reinstated when the city council was deadlocked at 3-3.

Page 3

continued from page 1

When she returned to her position on Aug. 2, 2016, Machen reported to the council that her computer access had been limited, that she didn’t have access to some aspects of the financial software used by the city, that she didn’t have keys to city hall and, for a time, had her phone calls forwarded elsewhere.

Then Shaw again sent her home with pay on Aug. 16, 2016. But on Sept. 7, 2016 when a hearing was

to be held, Shaw said he had placed her on paid administrative leave. Shaw said in an open meeting that her inability to produce accurate numbers was the reason she was sent home and that he had not terminated her.

In addition to those moves, Machen saw a city workers’ sick out after she returned to her position, she reported break-ins to her office and the council had to get involved to get her

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access to the city’s financial software.

She again returned to work the following day.

Following Shaw’s defeat by current Alexander City Mayor Jim Nabors in the 2016 election, the new council took several positions under review and ended up not renewing Machen’s contract. The contracts of the police chief and fire chief were also not

renewed and the city clerk retired during that same period.

Machen had previously filed a “notice of claim” to city officials seeking “lost wages, and other damages” in January of 2017.

When contacted Wednesday, Nabors said he was unaware of the filing and referred questions to city attorney Larkin Radney.

Radney had not heard

that the suit was filed until receiving a call from The Outlook and said it would be premature to get into any discussion of the specifics raised in the document.

“I won’t make any statements about this until it is resolved other than to say I will work to defend my client, which in this case is the city, as the matter progresses through the legal system,” Radney said.

Opinion

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

EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed

Page 4

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Our

View

Summer reading a great way to stay in shape for school

“W

that might have remained hidden.

So, if you want to keep you children on the path to success in school, have them take part in a summer reading program. There is still plenty of time to sign up and be a part of the program at the library. The program may be structured, but it is also more leisurely than other forms of reading. They may be having fun, but they may also learn something new along the way.

JOHN TURES Columnist were.

Any country that has a trade dispute handles it through the World Trade Organization (WTO), with an impartial referee that rules on disputes that we have with allies. We’ve done this since 1995, and before that with GATT, going all the way back to the latter years of World War II. And those rules, institutions, and cooperation, with the U.S. as the leader of the Free World (tax-free trade and democracy) made us great, not a few tycoon corporate raiders.

We created these alliances and institutions for a reason: to learn the lessons of Hitler and Fascism. As the Great Depression unfolded, countries couldn’t wait to slap each other with taxes, which are tariffs on trade.

Without any economic cooperation, there was no political and military cooperation to stop Hitler, Mussolini and Tojo, until it was almost too late.

Learning the lesson of this disaster, Democrats like FDR and JFK, as well as Republicans like Ike and Reagan, sought to keep these economic and military alliances. We teamed up to win the Cold War against

the Communists, besting the Soviet Union and holding off the Chinese.

Of course, the Russians and Chinese resented losing that contest. That’s what motivated both to try harder to undermine such powerful alliances. Those two stand to gain the most from a trade war, which hurts free markets, not authoritarian command economies.

Want to know who is going to lose? I spoke to a friend who has a firm involved in products supposedly protected by such tariffs. I asked how business was. Lousy, he replied. Because of the tariffs, everyone domestically is charging more. And that hurts his bottom line, his employees, and his customers. And soon, it will come to hurt you.

America may have low unemployment numbers (they’ve been falling since 2009) and good economic growth numbers (they’ve been growing since 2009). Don’t expect either to last. Don’t count on Reaganesque growth of the 1980s and Clintonlike growth of the 1990s. We’re headed all the way back to the 1930s, Smoot-Hawley Tariff rates, and bad economic news.

John A. Tures is a professor of political science at LaGrange College in LaGrange, Georgia. He can be reached at jtures@lagrange.edu or on Twitter @JohnTures2.

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

Eric Brown

Tommy Spraggins represents District 5.

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

Tommy Spraggins

Tim Funderburk represents District 6.

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

Tim Funderburk

Daily Poll Wednesday Question: Have you planned a summer vacation?

No – 17 Yes – 12

Thursday Question: Have you spent time searching for Sun Festival Pie in the Sky Medallion?

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

Opinion?

Letter to the Editor

Dark, Ominous threat to modern Christianity Scott Hardy

alexcityoutlook.com

What’s your

Bobby Tapley

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.

Scripture

“I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge – that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” – Ephesians 3:17-19

Subscribe

Jim Nabors

Buffy Colvin

Today’s

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.

Bobby Tapley

represents District 2. Her phone number is 256-7500663. Her address is 786 I Street, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Buildings and Property committee.

Quote

“It is soothing thing about history that it does repeat itself.”

– Gertrude Stein

How to

Officials

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.

Today’s

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.

Know Your 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.

Thursday, June 7, 2018

The

What would Reagan think of Trumps’s trade war?

e should beware of the demagogues who are willing to declare a trade war against our friends, weakening our economy, our national security, and the entire free or schoolchildren, there are few things world, all while cynically more exciting and anticipated than waving the American flag.” summer vacation. After spending much Those words were of the last nine months inside the classroom, spoken by none other than the “freedom” that comes from the lazy days President Ronald Reagan of summer almost feels like a breath of fresh in a radio address. They air and liberation. However, such freedom were unearthed by Bryan sometimes comes with a price.

Riley, and retweeted by There have been studies showing that Bill Kristol, the editor of children who engage in mentally stimulating the conservative Weekly activities over the summer break enter the Standard. I even watched next school year more prepared than their that radio address. counterparts who have engaged in little, if Among modern any, mental stimulations. As these students conservatives, it’s progress from grade to grade, the coursework fashionable to either be a becomes more challenging, meaning those fan of Ronald Reagan, or who have slipped some over the vacation Donald Trump.

In some may need more time to catch up when school cases, the same person likes starts back. both presidents. But given One great way to keep children mentally how radically different active while not in school is to participate in their policies turned out, summer reading programs. The librarians at that’s now an inconsistent both Adelia M. Russell and Mamie’s Place work hard in putting together a fantastic series position.

We just declared a trade of events at the library, designed to keep those war on our allies, Canada, registered excited and ready to read more books. In addition, readers are able to choose the European Union, and their own literature and go at their own pace. Mexico. These alliances are not just technicalities.

Being able to read whatever they want, as fast or as slow as they want, helps take away We’ve signed on the dotted line with NATO some of the pressure reading for schoolwork countries in 1949, Western can sometimes cause. For younger readers, Hemisphere countries there is a contract that must be signed with in the Rio Pact in 1947, one of the librarians at Mamie’s Place, but and the Bogota Pact of the goals set forth in the contract are created by the children themselves, so there is no real 1948, establishing the pressure there either.

Organization of American While this can be beneficial, you can also States (OAS). Every encourage your children to look at genres U.S. President during of books they may not usually consider. our “great” years has This may stretch them out of their comfort upheld and honored those zone a bit, but may lead to the discovery of alliances. We’re a country something new and exciting they may not whose word and deed could have otherwise picked up, exploring a world be trusted, or at least we

F

Outlook

Dear Editor, Have you heard the latest “New Age” fad, “The New Atheism”? I usually don’t give liberal gibberish a second glance, but this revelation is most troubling!

Tufts University has commissioned an extensive study on whether Clergy actually personally believe what they preach from the pulpit. Across the spectrum of all Protestant faiths, a staggering 37 percent confess they do not necessarily personally believe what they say!

Obviously, I am shocked! In yet another research study on the subject by George Bama, Christian Pollster, he reported that an unbelievable 51 percent of Protestant Clergy do not believe their own preaching!

To say this is troubling is an understatement-but is not unexpected! In our modern day of an “enlightened” generation more and more of our young adults are being indoctrinated with a liberal philosophy that questions virtually every value we were taught and cast doubt on the Christian faith as we know it.

In the Tufts study, all Protestants were combined, yet, the University stated that could not located enough Catholics that fall into a category of non-believers to be included in the study. All had graduate degrees with a cross section made up equally of the same number of liberal faiths and conservative denominations. All surveyed agreed that “non-belief” is rampant throughout their faiths.

Wes, a Methodist, was raised a Baptist. Wes, started questioning his beliefs while attending a liberal university. He teaches his kids that the Bible is made up of

fictional stories. He stated his reason for being in the ministry is, “....it provides a comfortable lifestyle for my family...”.

Rick, the United Church of Christ: He is employed as the director of Campus Ministries of a large university. Rick, spends much of his time working for Gay Rights and abortion accessibility for college students.

He has never believed in Christ, the Resurrection or the Virgin Birth!

Darryl is a Presbyterian. Totally rejects the Divinity of the Jesus, the Virgin Birth, Heaven, and Hell, yet, still avows that he is a Christian!

Jack, Southern Baptist: Rejects Christianity after carefully reading through the Bible. Jack states, “I am just being totally honest with myself”. Yet, he realizes that he must be careful to preach what the flock expects to hear from the pulpit for his job security, but does not believe it personally for a minute!

So, where does this put you and I? Can we sit in our pews on Sunday morning and listen to the pastor with an open mind knowing what we now know?

I’ll pray for them.

James Anderson Talladega SOURCES: Tufts University, Center for Cognitive Studies; Medford, MA. email: Danile.dennett@tufts. edu; LaScola Quantitative Research; 3900 Conn Ave, NW, ste101F; Washington, DC 20008; George Bama Christian Pollster; Bama.org http://goo.gl/HFvlg

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) 2346550 or e-mailed to editor@alexcityoutlook.com. Please include your name, address and phone number.

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BINGO FUN Photos by Cliff Williams Kelly Adams, below right, with Beyond Home Care calls numbers as area residents mark their cards, right and below, at The Mill Two Eighty Wednesday at the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Sun Festival bingo game.

Area residents enjoyed sweet treats and prizes at the bingo game. Beyond Home Care was the presenting sponsor for the event.

SCHEDULE OF SUN FESTIVAL EVENTS Thursday, June 7 Pie in the Sky Treasure Hunt Morning riddle will be read at 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. on the Front Porch at FM 97.5. When solved the riddle will lead you to a Sun Festival medallion worth $200.

9 a.m.

KidsFest in the Sun Airport Pavilion 1 p.m.

KidsFest Luck of the Draw 6 Broad Street 2:30 p.m.

KidsFest Build Your Own Sundae Carlisle’s 5:30 p.m.

Cornhole Tournament Coffee Corner Alley

6 p.m.

Strand Sessions Strand Park

Friday, June 8 Pie in the Sky Treasure Hunt Morning riddle will be read at 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. on the Front Porch at FM 97.5. When solved the riddle will lead you to a Sun Festival medallion worth $200.

9 a.m.

KidsFest Wet ‘n Wild Alexander City Pool 10 a.m.

Pie Baking Contest Lake Martin Innovation Center 10:30 a.m.

Celebrate America’s Heroes

HEALTHY TEENAGERS AND YOUNG ADULTS CAN GET BACTERIAL MENINGITIS. HERE IS HOW IT SPREADS:

Bill Nichols State Veterans Home 6 p.m.

Alexander City Jazz Festival Strand Park New Devils, Jon Cleary and Hollis Brown

Saturday, June 9 Pie in the Sky Treasure Hunt Morning riddle will be read at 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. on the Front Porch at FM 97.5. When solved the riddle will lead you to a Sun Festival medallion worth $200.

6 p.m.

Alexander City Jazz Festival The Amp Yonrico Scott, Roman Street and Taylor Hicks

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Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine 256-215-7450 | www.russellcares.com

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CommunityCalendar Need Insurance?

Today is June 7, 2018

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Thursday, June 7, 2018

The Outlook

Today’s Birthdays

Alex Walker, Anna Walker, Ann Rogers, Dorothy Thomas, Scott Booth, Betty Harrell, Ruby Jackson, Nita Crouch, June Abbett, Dakota Cheyenne Reaves, James Dennis

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/.

Stowes and Sandra Gaddis are celebrating their birthdays today.

Today’s Anniversaries

Mr. and Mrs. Tony Barker celebrate their anniversaries today.

THE MEADOWS ASSISTED LIVING

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256.234.3481

256-234-0800

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Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Katie and Carrie Waldrop found the Wednesday Sun Festival Medallion at Heritage South Credit Union just before 3 p.m. Look for tomorrow’s clue on our Facebook page at 6 a.m.

Today - June 7

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: First Baptist Church of Alexander City is hosting Vacation Bible School daily through June 7 from 8 a.m. to noon.

“Game On: Gearing Up for Life’s Big Game” is open for ages completing Pre K-4 through sixth grade. Register at www.fbc-ac.org/gameon.

CHURCH REVIVAL: New Harmony Baptist Church in Camp Hill is hosting revival services June 5-7 at 7 p.m. nightly. The guest speakers will be Rev. Jerry Dowdell of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. Morris Lewis of St. Luke CME Church and Rev. Robert Cadenhead of Macdeonia Baptist Church. The pastor of New Harmony Baptist Church is Rev. Melvin Kelley Jr.

Today - June 8

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: New Beginning Baptist Church on Coley Creek Road is hosting Vacation Bible School nightly from 5 to 8 p.m. through June 8.

The theme is “Game On” and is for ages three through youth. Meals will be served every night and transportation is available. Please call 256-7500068 for more information.d VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: West End Church is hosting “Game On and Gear Up for Life’s Big Game” Vacation Bible School nightly from 5 to 8 p.m. through June 8.

Supper will be served at 5 and VBS will begin at 6 p.m. Registration is now open and van pickup is available. To register see a member of West End or call the church office at 256-234-2130 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Friday, June 8

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 Shatia Carr (334) 252-0025, Ext. 101 Email: Scarr@learning-tree.org

CONCERT: Award-winning pianist, arranger, music composer Christopher Cooley will perform in a free-will offering concert at Lake Pointe Baptist Church, located at 8352 AL Highway 50 in Walnut Hill, just east of AL 49, south of Dadeville.

The concert is a fund-raiser to support the Lei Bledsoe/Joe Ponder Fund of neighboring Sardis UM Church.

The Bledsoe/Ponder Fund provides financial support and acts of kindness to people in the community in times of hardship. Donations will be accepted.

Admission is free.

Cooley, who now lives in New York, has played a variety of instruments and with various vocal soloists at Carnegie Hall and the Lincoln Center, as well as in Italy, Germany, Austria and a half-dozen other countries.

Lake Pointe Baptist Church is donating the use of its sanctuary and baby-grand piano in anticipation of a crowd too large for the smaller capacity of neighboring Sardis United Methodist Church. A reception with refreshments and light snacks will precede the performance.

June 8 - June 9

Need your business to

STAND OUT from the crowd?

CONFERENCE: Darian Baptist Church on Pearson Chapel Road is hosting the “Spirt of Unity Conference 2018” June 8 at 7 p.m. and June 9 at 9 a.m. Guest speaker will be Rev. Wally Cooley of Faith Outreach Ministry in Anniston. For more information contact Overseer Larry Shealey at 334-707-8349.

Call us, we can help!

256.234.4281

• • • • •

Alexander City Outlook Dadeville Record Wetumpka Herald Eclectic Observer Tallassee Tribune

Saturday, June 9

PRODUCTION: The Mt. Vernon Theatre in Tallassee is hosting musical artist Andy Griggs in concert at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $12 and are available at mtvernontheatre.net BRIDGE BUILDERS FOOTBALL CAMP: The annual Bridge Builders

Football Camp will be June 9 and 23.

Registration starts at 7 a.m. and the $10 fee includes lunch.

Current and former Auburn University athletes are set to help including Tre’ Williams, Malik Miller and K.J. Britt. Pre-registration will be at JR’s Mondays starting May 21.

For more information contact Hudson R. Hinton at 256-750-1140.

CLASS MEETING: The Laurel High School Class of 1969 will meet at the Cooper Recreation Center at 10 a.m.

YARD AND BAKE SALE: Calvary Baptist Church in Dadeville is hosting an indoor yard sale and bake sale from 7 a.m. to noon. There will be clothes, home decor, kitchen supplies and more. There will also be homemade stationery and inspirational paintings.

YARD SALE: The Tallapoosa County Crisis Center is hosting its Second Quarter Yard Sale from 7 a.m. to noon at the crisis center.

June 9 - 14

CAMP: Mt. Vernon Theatre in Tallassee is hosting a theatre camp for kids June 9-14.

Sunday, June 10

FISH FRY: Duncan United Methodist Church is hosting a fish fry at 5 p.m.

Rev. Wayne Hicks is the pastor.

June 10-12

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Dadeville First United Methodist Church is hosting vacation Bible School June 11-12 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

June 10 - 14

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Wayside Baptist Church is hosting “Game On” Vacation Bible School June 11-14 from 5:20 to 8:15 p.m. with a kickoff party June 10 at 6 p.m.

The Kickoff Party will have s’mores, games, fun, music and more. You can register at this event for VBS. VBS will have music, art, Bible study, recreation and lots of surprises.

A free T-shirt is included. For more information call 256-749-1102. Pickup will be available upon request.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Orr Street Baptist Church is hosting vacation Bible school June 10 to June 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. each night. A meal will be served. The kickoff celebration and pre-registration is Wednesday, June 6 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

June 11-15

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: Lake Martin Baptist Church is hosting vacation Bible school June 11 to June 15 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The church is located on County Road 34 in Dadeville.

June 11-16

RABIES WEEK: Many vet clinics in the area are offering $10 Rabies vaccinations during the week. In addition Dr. John Caldwell will take his Rabies vaccination services on the road June 16. He will be at the Daviston Fire Department from 7:30 to 8:15 a.m. June 16 and from 8:30 to 9:15 a.m. at Hall Propane in New Site.

The $10 fee only covers the rabies vaccination.

Tuesday, June 12

DELORES HYDOCK: Friends of the Dadeville Public Library are sponsoring a moment in history, “It’s the Little Things: Five small objects that shaped the world of the Dutch Golden Age” with storyteller Delores

Hydock at 12:30 p.m. at Red Ridge United Methodist Church located at the intersection of County Road 34 and Alabama Highway 49 just south of Dadeville.

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

Friday, June 15

CONCERT: Mean Mary will be in concert at 7:30 p.m. at the Sundilla Concert Series at the Auburn United Universalist Fellowship Hall. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door.

Saturday, June 16

CHURCH SINGING: The First Presbyterian Church Choir is presenting its Annual Concert at 5 p.m. in the sanctuary at 371 Jefferson Street.

This year’s program is entitled “The Elders Sing the Oldies,” featuring music from the ‘40s, ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. The guest artists will be former Alexander City residents, Brink and Brinkley Norton from Charleston, South Carolina. Admission is free.

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

Thursday, June 21

SENIORX: Deborah Jones, SeniorRx coordinator will be available from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce to see if seniors are eligible for assistance with diabetic supplies, liquid supplements or medications.

DAY OF ACTION: The Lake Martin Area United Way Day of Action is from 8 a.m. to noon. The projects this year are at Benjamin Russell High School, Dadeville Elementary School and on Main Street.

Interested volunteers can download a registration form from the Lake Martin Area United Way website or contact Courtney Layfield at uw211@ unitedwaylakemartin.org or at 256329-3600.

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Saturday, June 23

SAVE OUR YOUTH TOUR: The 2018 Save Our Youth Tour featuring special guest Amari Asad will be from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Cooper Recreational Center located at 625 MLK Jr. Blvd. in Alexander City. The theme is “teach, educate and motivate.”

Admission is $20 and advance tickets are available. Vendor spaces are also available for $25. All ages are welcome to attend. For more information, call 256-496-4099.

BENEFIT PROGRAM: New Canaan Missionary Baptist Church in Camp Hill is hosting a benefit program for Vikki and Porshia Doss at 5 p.m.

It is hosted by the Star Wonders and pastor of New Canaan is Rev. Justin Freeman.

How to add a calendar item: Participate in your

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

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

Sunday, June 24

FAMILY, FRIENDS and SINNERS PROGRAM: Corinth Baptist Church in Kellyton is hosting a Family, Friends and Sinners Night Program at 6 p.m.

The guest minister will be Rev. Len Wilson, pastor of Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Goodwater.

Rev. Jimmy Brooks Jr. is pastor of Corinth Baptist Church.

FAMILY REUNION: The 101st Mann Family Reunion will be at 11 a.m. at Rocky Mount Primitive Baptist Church. All descendants of John Branch will gather for a covered dish lunch and fellowship.

For more information call Judy Burgess at 256-216-6108.

Tuesday, June 26

USHER MEETING: The Early District Usher’s meeting will be at 5 p.m. at the Early Rose District Center.

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Thursday, June 7, 2018

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Thursday, June 7, 2018

Thursday, June 7, 2018

The Outlook

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Election

Page 9

continued from page 1

“I knew if we could capture enough votes, we could get to the top,�

Martin said. “We worked hard and we came out with 35 percent of the vote (Tuesday) night.� “I was very excited,�

Oliver said. “I consider myself a very careful and planning person. I feel we did right with the resources we had.�

Voter turnout was about what was expected for Tuesday’s primary.

Statewide, it was predicted that between 25 and 30 percent of the state’s nearly 3.4 million registered voters would turn out to the polls to cast a ballot.

Almost 900,000, or 26.57 percent of Alabama voters marked a ballot on Tuesday.

In Tallapoosa County, 8,288 of the more than 30,000 registered to vote went to the polls, for a 27.48 percent rate. In comparison, some 45 percent of Tallapoosa County voters turned out for

the general election between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton.

As the buildup to the July 17 Republican runoff continues, Martin and Oliver explained their possible plans for becoming the Republican nominee

for the November race against Jeremy Jeffcoat, who was unopposed in the Democratic primary. “We will be disciplined.

We will be planning and developing strategies,�

Oliver said. “You have to tell people what you’re

going to do and ask for their support. Runoff races are more substantial than primaries. It’s about who you think will do the best job and represent you the best.� “We are regrouping, looking at the data and

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putting together a game plan as we speak,� Martin said. “I’m planning to start working the votes. We’re going to go good and hard, pull this thing out on July 17.�

(Cliff Williams also contributed to this story.)

LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com

Page 10

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Sports Outlook The

Thursday, June 7, 2018

JOE MCADORY Columnist

Leave politics out of youth all-star picks I

t didn’t matter what the pitcher threw, I was going to rip the cover off the ball. It was inevitable, it was unpreventable and it was the best feeling a Little Leaguer could feel stepping into the batter’s box on a Monday or Wednesday night.

I wasn’t one of the cool kids.

No. I was freckle-faced, naïve and overweight. But when I stepped into the batter’s box in the South Daytona (Florida) Minor League (8- and 9-year-olds), the only insults that were hurled came screaming off my aluminum bat. I spent two weeks early that season trying to figure out how to hit a baseball. I spent the rest of the 1977 season ripping doubles to the fence. It’s like God put the ball on a tee and commanded, “Crush it, young man.” So I did.

Failure kills confidence, obviously.

But success — over and over again — breeds confidence to the point of assuredness. You go from, “I can’t,” to “I’m going to … and there’s nothing you can do about it.”

All-star season was coming up and I couldn’t wait to be part of our league’s best players who would compete that June and July against the likes of neighbors from Port Orange, New Smyrna Beach, Holly Hill, Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach. That was the big leagues.

Those meaningless games against Publix or State Farm were nothing compared to playing on the big stage downtown.

I relished the thought of taking my 32-inch Easton and undeniable confidence to Derbyshire Park and hit the best pitchers in Volusia County. Then I’d be one of the cool kids.

After practice one afternoon, our coach read the names of the South Daytona All-Stars. Our team had three or four representatives, but its cleanup hitter was not among those listed. I didn’t understand. I sat in the dugout with a genuine lump in my throat. The cool kids made the team.

The chubby kid with the RBIs did not.

Sometimes it pays to be a coach’s kid.

It’s an afternoon I’ll never forget.

I remember the wooden dugout seats with the bubble gum stuck beneath.

I remember the holes in the cement walls that allowed for a breeze in the Florida heat. I remember the trash can full of Coca-Cola cups and bubble gum wrappers.

And I remember sitting there for what seemed like hours in stunned disbelief.

I never played baseball worth a flip again.

Rejection can either inspire or discourage. I can’t say how that team was chosen because I really don’t know. Was it politics? Was it influential parents? Surely, politics never plays a role in choosing an allstar team.

Regardless, our team’s best hitter was omitted. Was it because someone didn’t believe in me — the kid who beat down other pitchers that spring?

If they didn’t believe in me, why should I believe in me? Being told you aren’t good enough can really impact one’s psyche.

Youth all-star baseball season is on the horizon. Perhaps the teams have already been decided in your locale.

Perhaps not. Regardless, it’s a fine idea to select the best players in your organization … the ones who ripped the cover off the ball, the ones who knew they were going to get a hit every time they stepped to the plate, the ones who come to practice every day, work hard and treat people with respect.

Leave politics for Montgomery and Washington. We have enough dirt there already.

Joe McAdory is a communications editor at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business.

Dakota Sumpter and Todd Van Emst / Auburn Athletics

Auburn running back Malik Miller, left, and place kicker Anders Carlson will participate in Saturday’s Bridge Builders at the Sportplex.

BUILDING BRIDGES

this point (in their lives), every day they should have fun and find their purpose.

As long as you’re staying in school and doing what you’re supposed to do, you deserve to have fun.”

Miller is a fraternity brother of Hudson Hinton, who has been running the camp with the help of Tommie Kelly for several years. Hinton reached out to Miller, who was immediately interested and helped

By LIZI ARBOGAST enlist other Auburn players.

Sports Editor “Malik Miller was the one who Youngsters around the area will be approached me,” Auburn placekicker getting a chance to learn from some of Anders Carlson said. “I had about four the best — and potentially some of their teammates doing it and they knew that biggest role models — as the annual I just love giving back and giving to Bridge Builders youth football camp will the kids, so this is a perfect opportunity. be hosted at the Sportplex on Saturday.

There was no reason not to.”

“I think it’s going to be fun,” said Other Auburn players involved are Auburn running back Malik Miller, who linebackers K.J. Britt and T.D. Moultry is one of at least five Tigers who will help and offensive lineman Mike Horton. teach the kids during Saturday’s camp.

Both Carlson and Miller expressed the “These will be young kids, so we’ll go importance of helping youngsters learn through fundamentals with them and the game they love, especially since they just try to have some fun. Honestly, at are on the big stage every Saturday in the

Several Tigers on tap for youth football camp

fall.

“My parents harp on this: Leave the world a better place than what was given to you,” Miller said. “So to give back, in any small or big amount, any way you can — if you can make the world a better place, then you’ve left your mark on this world.”

Carlson said, “As a football player, you’re pretty busy but any time we get an opportunity to work with kids, it’s a special time. For me and my faith, it’s what you should do. Also, as a kid, I would go to camps all the time, and there would be other guys that I looked up to that coached me and helped me out. Now that I’m in that position, there’s no reason I shouldn’t.”

The camp is open to any child from first through eighth grade, but Hinton said he wouldn’t turn people away if they were close to the age range. It costs $10 and registration begins at 7 a.m. Saturday.

The camp runs from 8 a.m. to noon, and lunch will be served.

GLOW-IN-THE-DARK GOLFIN’

Photos by Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook Tuesday night, Lakewinds hosted its second annual Hittin’ the Links Glow-in-the-Dark golf tournament as part of Sun Festival. Fourteen teams participated, as they golfed late into the night. Top: Gregg Granville gets ready to tee from hole No. 18. Above: Jonathan Pitchford follows through on a chip shot near the 10th green. Right: Harrison Kelly tees off.