March 22, 2018 Alex City Outlook

THURSDAY

THE SSPORTS, PPOORTS PAGE 10

Generals, Rebels renew rivalry in game of week

LOCAL, PAGE 5

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

Coosa celebrates super citizens

March 22, 2018 Vol. 126, No. 58 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢

ACPD reassigns positions to increase efficiency ACPD’s Scott Wright deals with one of the many animal control issues the department deals with on a regular basis. Two former jail employees will now work in animal control, which officers say will be useful to the department.

day when we didn’t have animal control coverage,� Turner told the council Monday evening. “We had two officers, but with days For area residents who listen to the police off and all, we even tried split shifts so at scanner on a regular basis, the fact that about least the busiest times were covered, but even 25 percent of the calls logged involve animal that had holes. To better serve the community, issues wouldn’t be a surprise. we needed more people trained to handle Alexander City Police Department Chief those calls.�

Jay Turner said animal control calls are one Turner said that in the past, officers would of the top calls the department receives. In the take the calls, but often didn’t have the past the staff has been limited to two officers, training or the equipment in their cruisers to but many of the animal control calls came effectively handle the situation. in the early morning hours or evening hours, Monday night the Alexander City City especially in the summer months.

Council approved changes to the city’s “In the past we had times during the See ACPD • Page 3

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Mitch Sneed / The Outlook

Weather alerts delivered by means other than sirens

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

The Lake Martin area did not hear any sirens Monday evening as storms crossed the state.

Some of the sirens have fallen into disrepair due to lighting and other issues. But county authorities started a year ago See ALERTS • Page 3

Glaze selected to fill seat on Jacksons Gap Town Council

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Above, Bre Smith is clipped into a zip line with the help of Blake Lindsey Wednesday morning. Left, Kat Raiford slides along the first line at the Wind Creek Zip Line and Aerial Adventure Park.

By MITCH SNEED Editor

The Jacksons Gap Town Council selected former council member Janice Glaze to serve out the remaining term of Brady Crocker who resigned due to added work obligations.

The selection took place at Tuesday’s special called meeting where the council interviewed three of the four candidates who submitted their names for consideration, considering the other through her resume which was provided to the council.

In addition to Glaze, the council interviewed former councilman and mayoral candidate Michael Crouch and new town resident William Hall.

See GLAZE • Page 3

Shrills of excitement as zip lines open at Wind Creek

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

S

creams of excitement can now be heard from the trees at Wind Creek State Park as the Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventure Park is now open.

The series of zip lines and skywalks traveling through the trees of the park is the result of a concession agreement between the Alabama State Parks System and Screaming Eagle. “We are really excited to kick this off at Wind Creek,�

See ZIP • Page 9

One man injured in four-vehicle accident

Park to celebrate annual anniversary event Saturday

One man was injured in a fourvehicle accident on Highway 22 West in Coosa County Wednesday afternoon. The driver of an Isuzu Rodeo was transported following the accident with unknown injures. The accident left an 18-wheeler in the ditch and blocking the roadway for a couple hours so the truck could be removed from the ditch. Also involved in the accident were a Land Rover and a Ford F-350.

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency State Troopers are investigating the accident. The Kellyton Volunteer Fire Department and the Coosa County Sheriff’s Department also responded.

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park has been celebrating the Battle of the Horseshoe for decades and Saturday is no different as it hosts the 204th Anniversary of the Battle of Horseshoe.

The day will be filled with activities to celebrate Creek Indian heritage and give guests a peek into 1800s frontier life and military life. “Throughout the day will have cannon firing demonstrations and musket firings,� Lead Park Ranger Stacy Speas said. “We will also have games of Creek Stick ball.�

There will also be interpretive programs to give insight into Creek See ANNIVERSARY • Page 3

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Today’s

Weather

62 40 High

Low

Lake Martin

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487.94 Reported on 3/22/18 @ 5 p.m.

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Wife left at home with the kids longs to socialize with adults

Friday

68 47 Low

High Mostly sunny

Saturday

75 59 Low

High Mostly sunny

Staff

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

Postal

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

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

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 Rebecca Carlisle Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 rebecca.carlisle@alexcityoutlook.com Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com Erin Burton Assistant, Ext. 204 erin.burton@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. Š 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.

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.

HOW TO SUBMIT OBITUARIES Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by e-mail at obits@alexcityoutlook.com or by fax at (256) 234-6550.

For more information, call (256) 234-4281. +

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DEAR ABBY: My husband, Tom, and I have three kids: One is in college, the next is in grade school and the youngest is a baby. I’m a full-time medical student, and he’s a professional athlete.

From the outside, it would seem like we have a perfect life. In reality, Tom does his own thing. He attends parties, goes to exciting social events and hobnobs with the rich and famous. I am left at home to manage all of our day-to-day responsibilities and socially restricted to family functions or kid sports.

I would like to be included in the invitations and attend some of the fun activities with my husband, but when I ask him if I can go, he says they are “workrelated.� So I end up staying home to care for our kids. He thinks I should be happy with this and says I don’t understand his business responsibilities.

I’d really like the chance to interact with other adults with my husband, but I can’t seem

DEAR ABBY Advice to get him to appreciate the importance of including me. If I make a big deal about it, he opts not to attend the event at all. I’m slightly suspicious of his behavior and offended. He’s kind to me, a good provider and cares for our kids, but how can I get him to understand it’s important for both of us to have fun together with other adults? -- SPORTS WIFE IN CALIFORNIA DEAR SPORTS WIFE: A wife is supposed to be more than a baby machine, housekeeper and nanny. She’s supposed to be her husband’s partner. While I understand there may be some events the athletes attend without spouses, it would be interesting to know

whether the other athletes’ wives are being treated the way you are. Surely you know some of them. Talk to the ones you are closest with. Your husband may not have been entirely honest about why he insists on flying solo, so make it your business to do some checking.

DEAR ABBY: I’m the proud grandmother of an 18-month-old girl. My daughter is an attentive mother in every way except one. My concern is that she lets the baby play alone in the bathtub.

My husband and I recently celebrated my birthday at her house. When I asked where the baby was, another guest said, “She’s playing in the bathtub.� Sure enough, the baby was in the bathroom, in the bathtub, playing and swimming around in the water by herself. I was horrified! I can’t imagine that times have changed this much or that it could ever be OK to leave a baby unattended in the bath,

no matter their dexterity or ability to walk.

I spent the next day in a panic, sending my daughter stories, news articles and other information, trying to get across to her how dangerous this is, but she didn’t want to hear it.

Do you have some magic words for me? -- GRANDMOTHER IN NORTH CAROLINA DEAR GRANDMOTHER: Babies have been known to drown in as little as 2 inches of water. Your clueless daughter may not want to hear it, but what you have described is child endangerment. The magic words you are asking for are: “parenting classes.� And if she still won’t listen, some other good ones are: “Child Protective Services.�

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 was very active in the WMU. Among her hobbies were gardening, cooking, baking and spending time with her children and grandchildren. She also loved to travel. She was a very loving and well loved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend.

She is survived by her daughters, Janet Price (Jim) Spann and Glenda Price (Von) Memory; grandchildren Lisa (Van) Wilkins, Wade (Leanne) Price, Glen (Mandi) Price, Todd (Pipier) Spann, Brian (Ronda) Spann, Mary Catherine (Matt) Bloxham, Stuart (Stephanie) Memory, and Justin Memory; great-grandchildren, Patrick Odess, Elise Wilkins, Hamp Price, Matthew Price, Sydney Spann, Lauren Spann, Connor Spann, Caleb Spann, Hannah Holdridge, Ellie Memory, Claire Bloxham, Luke Bloxham, and Will Bloxham; and sister, Christine

Mrs. Vera Frances Price 1922 - 2018 Funeral Service for Ms. Vera Frances Price, 95, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Saturday, March 24, 2018 at 11:30 a.m. at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Rev. Tim Harris will officiate. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Saturday, March 24, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Radney Funeral Home.

Ms. Price passed away on Wednesday, March 21, 2018 at her residence. She was born on December 30, 1922 to William Jefferson Fuller and Vera Louise Fuller. She was an active member of Comer Memorial Baptist Church, being the oldest female member. She

Ms. Serena Lee Cox 1941 - 2018

Major Tyrone E. Ballard Funeral service for Major Tyrone E. Ballard 48 of Enterprise, AL; formerly of Goodwater, AL; Saturday, March 24, 2018; 2 p.m.; Paradise Mission Full Gospel Worship Center,

Memorial Service for Ms. Serena Lee Cox, 76, of Jacksons Gap, will be announced at a later date.

Ms. Cox passed away on Tuesday, March 20, 2018 at her residence. She was born on November 13, 1941 in Torrance, California to Harvey and Florence Lee. She was a member of St. John the Apostle Catholic Church.

She is survived by her daughter, Selena and husband David Tunison of Saint Paul, MN and grandchildren, Dakota and Sabrina Tunison.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Michael Lee. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www. radneyfuneralhome.com.

Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Goodwater, AL; burial, church cemetery.

Visitation: Friday, March 23, 2018; 3-7p.m.

Final Arrangements are Entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Funeral Home.

Betty Jo Jones

Mr. General Cox

There will be a Celebration of Life Service for Betty Jo Jones Saturday, April 7, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Radney Funeral Home, 1326 Dadeville Road, Alexander City, Alabama.

Mr. General Cox of Dadeville, Alabama passed away Tuesday, March 20, 2018 at UAB Hospital, Birmingham, Alabama.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by Wright’s Funeral Home.

Jones

Mrs. Mary Fuller Jones Funeral service for Mrs. Mary Fuller Jones 75 of Goodwater, AL; Friday, March 23, 2018; 1 p.m.; Paradise Mission Full Gospel Worship Center, Goodwater, AL;

Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Bunn.

She was preceded in death by her father, William Jefferson Fuller; mother, Vera Louise Fuller; husband, Virgil Glendon Price; son, Jerry Wade Price; daughter in law, Patricia Gallops Price; sisters, Mary Will Blankenship, Sara Duck, and Evelyn Dabbs; brothers, Joseph Fuller, Lifford Fuller, Otha Fuller, Doyle Fuller, Melton Fuller, John Fuller and Larcus Fuller.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to Comer Memorial Baptist Church, 341 E. Church St., Alexander City, AL 35010.

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

burial, Macedonia Memorial Garden, Goodwater, AL. Visitation: Thursday, Armour’s Memorial Chapel 12-7p.m.

Final Arrangements are Entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Funeral Home.

Police Reports Alexander City Police Department March 18

• Sabin Lynn Given, 43, of Alexander City was arrested for harassment and public intoxication. • Theft was reported on Highway 22 East. • Theft was reported on I Street. • Disorderly conduct was reported on Jefferson Street. • Harassment was reported on Highway 280. • Harassment was reported on Cornerstone Drive. • Theft was reported on Old Dark Road.

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March 17

• Mark Hartwell Spencer, 23, of Alexander City was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement. • Domestic violence was reported on Hall Street. • Domestic violence was reported on O Street. • Harassing communications and distributing private image with intent to harass, threaten or coerce was reported on Mallory Circle. • Theft was reported on Villa Terrace. • Theft was reported on Highway 280.

• Driving under the influence of alcohol and fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement was reported on Coley Creek Road.

March 16

• Jonathan David Goodner, 39, of Alexander City was arrested for domestic violence. • Assault was reported on 13th Avenue. • Domestic violence was reported on East Church Street. • Harassing communications was reported on Nelson Road. • Theft was reported on Alexander City Shopping

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Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department March 18

• A resident of Henderson Road in Notasulga filed a report for menacing. • Timothy Pennington of High Top Circle in Jacksons Gap was arrested for failure to appear possession of marijuana second degree and was transported to the county jail.

March 17

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Center Drive. • Distributing private image with intent to harass, threaten or coerce and harassing communications was reported on Dadeville Road. • Leaving the scene of an accident was reported on Alabama Street. • Harassing communications was reported on Thomas Lane. • Harassment was reported on Highway 280. • Leaving the scene of an accident was reported on Highway 280.

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• A resident of Sunset Point in Alexander City filed a report in reference to theft. • Thomas Pogue of County Road 44 in Camp Hill was arrested for a warrant for failure to appear child support and transported to the county jail.

March 16

• Christopher Henderson of General Chappy James Street in Tallassee was arrested on a grand jury indictment for violation of SORNA and transported to the county jail. • Jervarski Hutchins of Old Kellyton Road in Alexander City was arrested on a failure to appear child support warrant while incarcerated in the county jail.

Thursday, March 22, 2018

Alerts

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The Outlook

continued from page 1

to multiple addresses and it will call your home phone.”

The system will keep trying until you acknowledge the alerts the user programs in.

“You must acknowledge the alert,” Moran said. “By pressing one, texting back ‘yes’ or clicking the button in the email. If not, Tallapoosa Alert will continue to call you until a response is received back for the next four hours.”

The county’s more than 12,000 landline numbers are already programmed into the system. Moran explained that many with just landlines are those who do not have access to smartphones or the internet.

“The people that don’t have a smart phone or internet, can’t hear a siren going File / The Outlook off and doesn’t have a weather radio, we Talllapoosa County EMA Director Jason Moran wanted to be able to get those people the information,” Moran said. “A lot of these discusses the Tallapoosa Alert system that delivare our elderly and don’t communicate with ers notifications to citizens in severe weather at a technology. I wanted these people to be able meeting last year when the app launched. Moran to get these notices as well. They are going encouraged residents to download it if they have to get a call no matter what time it is.” not already.

Moran says do not worry about it calling alerting residents another way – Tallapoosa for everything for this group.

Alert, a mass notification system to help “It is set to call those numbers only in keep residents safe and informed with case of a thunderstorm warning or a tornado reliable notifications during emergencies warning,” Moran said. and other events. Many have signed up for Moran explained that users going to the free service. the county’s website can set up their own Tallapoosa County Emergency account and manage what alerts they get Management Agency Director Jason Moran and how they get them. He also explained said that even though the area escaped the that the only information required is your worst part of Monday’s storms, they tried to address. be ready and pushed information out on a “It does not require any personal regular basis. information,” Moran said. “It does not “I do feel like more and more people require any credit card information.” are using the app and that is a great way To sign up to receive alerts from the to get the latest information,” Moran said. system, go to www.tallaco.com, click the “Yesterday (Monday) we had multiple departments tab and select EMA. From people sign up and we encourage everyone there click on Tallapoosa Alert. to do that. That way regardless of where Moran said he is available to help people you are you will have an idea of what is sign up. expected here in Tallapoosa County. It’s just “Anybody that has questions or if there March and this season where we tend to see is a group of people that I can speak to, extreme weather is just beginning.” explain it further, I will be more than happy Moran explained that the alerts come via to do it,” Moran said. phone call, text or email to addresses and County commissioners and Moran numbers when someone sets up their user believe the system will be valuable to those account. who have property in Tallapoosa County.

“Those signing up and creating their “I encourage Tallapoosa County residents own accounts can get an array of things,” to sign up for it because you get local Moran said. “You can go in and receive information when you need it,” Moran the messages about 10 different ways, said. “I hope that all of our community will text messages to multiple phones, emails support it and sign up as soon as possible.”

File / The Outlook

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park will have its annual celebration Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities will celebrate Creek Indian heritage and give guests a peek into 1800s frontier and military life.

Anniversary Indian and military life at the time.

This annual event recreates traditional Creek Indian life, frontier life in the year 1814 and emphasizes the importance of the battle in United States history through a variety of special demonstrations and interpretive programs. Saturday’s activities will provide park visitors with a better understanding of Southeastern American Indian life in this area 200 years ago, as well as provide insight into the lives of the combatants and the reasons why the battle occurred.

But Speas is most ready for a new event.

“We are going to hold rangerled battlefield walks,” Speas said.

“A park ranger will lead groups for an interpretive walk.”

While the anniversary event will take place from 9 a.m. to 4

continued from page 1

p.m., certain events are scheduled at specific times.

The walks will occur at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Games of stick ball will take place at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. The last demonstration of the day will be a musket firing at 3:30 p.m.

To get ready for Saturday, the park is hosting History Days for area fourth grade students Wednesday through Friday.

“We invited students from surrounding counties to come to the park,” Speas said. “We are helping with transportation and providing lunch through the ‘Every Kid in a Park’ grant.”

The New Site Volunteer Fire Department will have lunch for sale Saturday as a fundraiser.

The park is preparing for Creek Culture Day Camp at the park this summer. Details will be announced later.

ACPD

continued from page 1

personnel list that will allow for the allocation of personnel that were formerly assigned to the jail. Two of those positions will go to animal control, one will become an evidence clerk and the other, which is open currently, will eventually be used for an administrative assistant to help in administration.

While all the moves will allow those employees whose jobs ended when the jail was closed to stay with the department, they all fill

Glaze

big needs.

“We have an animal ordinance, and rightfully so, residents expect it to be enforced,” Turner said. “Plus they do a lot of proactive things like setting traps and patrolling problem areas. With two officers, they just weren’t able to do as much of that as they would have liked. This should allow them to better serve the needs of the community and address some of the problems that are out there.”

Turner said the

continued from page 1

Kimberly Henderson’s resume was considered, but she was unable to attend Tuesday’s meeting.

Glaze has experience on the council. She was appointed to fill a few months of a term in 2012 and was elected and served one term that same year. She was defeated in the last election, but said she enjoyed serving the town.

“I hope to be able to help this council do what is right for all of Jacksons Gap,” Glaze said. “This isn’t about us or just the council, it’s about doing what’s right for everyone in the community. That’s what I hope to do – work with everyone to do what’s best for Jacksons Gap.” Mayor Jeff Walker said it was a tough decision due to the varied traits the candidates brought to the table.

“I thank everyone who was interested and I appreciate your willingness to serve,” Walker said. “It’s a tough decision, because you all have qualities and experience that would add a lot to the council.”

Council member Heather Glenn challenged Hall and Crouch to stay involved.

“We really do appreciate your interest,” Glenn said. “There are a lot of ways that you can serve the community and we hope that you will stay active and involved. We can use all the help we can get.”

Glaze was sworn in

by Town Clerk Kathleen Ford and will take the position at the council’s next meeting.

The interviews and appointment were the only items considered at Tuesday’s meeting.

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evidence clerk’s position is also one that will make the department more efficient.

“We had someone who did that along with other duties on a part-time basis,” Turner said. “But with the volume we have, we need someone who can ride herd on those things. You need the same person tracking evidence

and as it is finished in the legal process, disposing of them in accordance with policy and law.

“Because we have had so many different people and used so many different methods in the past, we have a backlog that is unreal. I found one instance where we had beer in evidence from a case I worked when I

started almost 20 years ago. There’s no reason for that to happen. We really believe this will help with that problem.”

Because of the difference in classification, the moves will cost the city a little more money.

The budget was amended in the amount of $6,441 to cover the

costs. Turner said he plans to keep the fourth position, which will be an administrative assistant, open until the next budget year to offset the increased cost.

“Like I said, it makes us operate much more efficiently and serves the public better,” Turner said. “Plus, no one loses their job either.”

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Opinion

MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213

editor@alexcityoutlook.com

EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed

Page 4

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Outlook The

March of Dimes standing up for babies, mothers

Our

View

City now employs business thinking

R

onald Reagan once said: “The best minds are not in government. If any were, business would steal them away.”

While Reagan may have been correct, we here in Alexander City are starting to see our city government, guided by some very heady leadership, start to operate more like a business.

Let us share a few examples and we think you will agree this is a good thing.

The city has worked tirelessly to get its finances in order and organized in a manner where leaders and citizens if they desire can get an up to the week look at where the city stands financially. The last two audits that stand in the way of being current are in the works and could be complete within months. Records are now automated and digital, not on pen and paper.

That’s a far cry from where it was just a year ago.

We are seeing the desire to become more automated. Have you paid a utility bill lately? You now have the payment processed electronically and your payment is sent directly to the bank. That eliminates the potential for mistakes and money being unaccounted for. A similar system is now used at the golf course.

There is talk of more of the city’s information, ordinances and records to be digitized so people can access that information from home.

In business, customer service and overthe-top response are essential to success.

We are seeing strides made every day on those issues here in Alexander City government.

On today’s front page we feature a story about how Chief Jay Turner and the Alexander City Police Department are reallocating jail personnel to better serve the needs of the community. Animal control generates a lot of citizen calls and the moves will mean that the city will now have virtually 24-hour coverage.

In another indication of business-like approach, Turner is leaving a position open for the rest of the year so this switch will not cause a budget shortfall in his department.

Customer service and people skills were also a priority when the city was looking for a new building official.

Government is different than business because it has to be accountable to the people and more transparent.

Get the picture?

It’s encouraging to see the city appears to be led by some pretty good minds.

Being business savvy makes them better stewards of our money.

W

hen I look at my baby, I am constantly reminded how blessed I am to have a perfectly healthy little bundle of miraculous joy, and I will never take that for granted.

Last week, I bumped into an old buddy of mine at the grocery store. With him was Ashton, his precious little girl.

I hadn’t seen him in quite some time, so he was unaware I have a little one of my own. It didn’t take long for us both to realize we have a lot in common.

We are not only 45-year-old men with little girls, but also 45-year-old men with little girls born prematurely. My Abigail was born at 32 ½ weeks, while Ashton was born at 30. His was born a little earlier than mine, but mine was born in the back of an ambulance on Friday the 13th. Either way,

by God’s good grace, both of our little angels are doing exceptionally well.

At my next stop, I bumped into another friend. Lo and behold if her youngest wasn’t born premature, too. He was born at 34 weeks and is now a happy, healthy and athletic soon-to-be 12-year-old.

Sadly, not all preemies are as healthy as ours. In the United States, 10% of babies are born prematurely. That’s a lot of families affected and babies who face challenges ahead. Babies born preterm face a greater likelihood of death, disability or lifelong health conditions. What’s more, not every baby gets the best possible start.

That last sentence saddens

see, Emily, our 11-year-old was also born at 32 weeks.

JODY MOD supports moms through every stage of the FULLER pregnancy journey, even Columnist when everything doesn’t go according to plan. From advocacy to education to research, MOD works to level me. I recall the 29 days we the playing field so that all spent at the UAB Women & moms and babies are healthy.

Infants Center last fall. We saw It’s advocating for policies and heard babies at all stages. to protect them. It’s working We were fortunate to bring our baby home. I’m sure some of the to radically improve the healthcare they receive. It’s babies we heard crying are still there. Even sadder, some of them pioneering research to find aren’t, yet they never went home. solutions. It’s empowering families with programs, This is a heartbreaking knowledge and tools to have reality for far too many healthier pregnancies. By families. Today, March of uniting communities through Dimes (MOD) is leveling these efforts, MOD is building the playing field because we a brighter future for us all. believe every baby deserves March for Babies is our the best possible start. By nation’s oldest fundraising and supporting MOD, you are awareness walk. Since 1970, it standing up for babies. has raised almost $2.5 billion I never knew much about to improve the health of moms MOD or its mission. In fact, and babies. My local March I still don’t, but I am learning for Babies will take place on and will be actively involved May 12 at Municipal Park in from this point forward. In Opelika. There is likely one in fact, I recently co-hosted the your area, as well.

March for Babies kickoff If you want to help with this event in Auburn. Some of the worthy cause or are interested information in this column in joining our team, please came directly from our notes. contact me. I’ll be happy to The year of 2018 is a big year for MOD and its lifesaving pass along the information.

With your help, we can make work. Furthermore, this year this the best year yet. marks its 80th birthday. Last year March for Babies raised Jody Fuller is a comic, more than $80 million in speaker, writer and soldier 400 communities across the with three tours of duty in Iraq. country. There were 4 million He is also a lifetime stutterer. participants, sponsors and He can be reached at jody@ supporters joining the cause. I jodyfuller.com. For more believe we can do even better this year. I know Team Emmy information, please visit www. jodyfuller.com and Abby will do its part. You

District 1. His phone number is 256-3920344. His address is 1821 LaVista Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Public Safety committee.

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

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

alexcityoutlook.com

Daily Poll

Wednesday Question: Did you take any extra precautions with the threat of severe weather this week?

No — 62%, 21 votes Yes — 38%, 13 votes

Thursday Question: Have you ever been on a zipline?

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.

Subscribe

The subscription rate is $136.00 per year in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and $177.99 outside the area. Periodicals paid at Alexander City, AL. Newspapers are available at 100 news racks in our area at 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 email david.kendrick@ alexcityoutlook.com.

Easter time is a comin’

Dear Editor, How many of us know the true meaning of Easter?

Yes, that God gave His only begotten Son to die on the cross, such a horrible, horrible death, for all our sins. Would anyone of us do that even for our loved ones? I believe it doubtful.

Yet, God allowed this to happen for mankind and we are so undeserving — each and everyone one of us. He died for our sins, was buried in a borrowed grave and on the third day, He rose from the grave. Only mighty

God could do this.

Ever since, He has been loving and caring for each of us regardless of who we are.

However, I do believe that we as a nation have forgotten Him, maybe not everyone, but a majority have.

We need to teach our young ones about the true meaning of Easter. It is not about the new clothes, Easter baskets, candies, flowers, etc., but about Christ who died, was buried and arose on the third day from the grave for all of us.

Let us praise Him. May we come back, One Nation Under

God, praying for one another, especially our leaders and our officials, that God will just lead, guide and direct them in all things.

This country has gotten so far away from God. It is sad.

We are going to have to really pray, continually.

Do folks not want to go to Heaven? It makes one wonder.

Let’s keep praying and asking for God’s help. It is not too late.

May God bless everyone.

Have a blessed Easter.

Margaret Aldridge Dadeville

Banning guns takes our freedom away

Eric Brown represents

Scripture

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought.”

—Jeremiah 17:7-8

How to

Letters to the Editor

Buffy Colvin represents

Today’s

Mission

Jim Nabors

Bobby Tapley

Quote

“A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him.”

—David Brinkley

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.

Officials

Bobby Tapley represents

Today’s

Our

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, March 22, 2018

Dear Editor, Gun owners take heed.

On gun control and the people who propose gun control there are some facts that you should know. The Soviet Union established gun control; 20 million dissidents were rounded up and exterminated. In Turkey also, 1. 5 million exterminated.

Germany - 13 million, China 20 million, Guatemala - 100,000, Uganda - 300,000, Cambodia - and other countries who have gun bans have similar results.

Defenseless people rounded

up and exterminated in the 20th century. Fifty-six million Australian citizens were forced to surrender their personal handguns, at a cost of $500,000 dollars with no results. Since the criminals know people don’t have guns, break-ins and assaults have increased. You won’t see this on the evening news.

Guns in the hands of honest citizens save lives and property.

Gun control laws adversely affect only the law-abiding citizens.

Take note before it’s too late.

When someone talks about

gun control, remind them of the countries that have gun bans.

With guns, we are citizens.

Without them, we are subjects. I am afraid we are going down the wrong road on gun bans.

Sure, there should be stricter laws. Enforce the laws we have, ban some guns. Remember, when the government gets your gun, only the criminals will have them.

P.S. There are a lot of people killed in automobiles, no one is trying to ban them.

Robert Mobley Alexander City

What’s your

Opinion?

We’d like to share your thoughts and opinions with the greater Lake Martin community. It’s free and it only takes a few moments of your time. We have two ways to get your opinion in print: letters to the editor and guest columns. The main difference is length. Letters to the editor are up to 250 words, while guest columns can be up to 500 words. Letters and columns may be sent to P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011, faxed to (256) 2346550 or emailed to editor@alexcityoutlook.com. Please include your name, address and phone number.

Send us your thoughts today!

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On the Web

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

Thursday, March 22, 2018 Your community, your news ...

Local news Outlook The

Page 5 www.alexcityoutlook.com

City school board entertained by drama performances David McCall, Stephens Elementary School teacher Vicki Spraggins, Stephens teacher Gail Wilder, Jim Pearson Elementary School teacher Bonny Wilson, As part of the monthly meeting of Alexander City Middle School teacher the Alexander City Board of Education Billy Bowen, Radney teacher Rhonda Tuesday evening at Benjamin Russell High Strickland, Radney secretary Lottie School, students from the BRHS drama Wyckoff and system bus driver Gene Blair. department put on a special performance, The resignation of Jim Pearson bookkeeper demonstrating the abilities of the high Bridgett Moon was also accepted, while school students who take part in drama. the board approved Caleb Wyckoff as a “During the fall, we’re in competition volunteer track coach and hiring Curtis Gay mode,” Drama teacher Shannon Culver to fill the role of counselor at Radney. “He said. “We took 39 students to the district Donald Campbell / The Outlook really impressed our committee,” Radney competition, and at district, we had 33 qualify for the state competition at the Adeline Treadwell, Jessie Culver, Emily Jones, Tess Staples, Deanna Silver, Ann Marie Waldrop, Paris principal Dr. John Prestridge said.

• The first reading of a policy revision University of North Alabama in Florence.” Burdick, Bexley Knight, Anna Riley, Sarah Beth Griffin and Kathryn Crutchfield from the Benjamin was held, changing language in the board Culver said one competition group Russell drama department perform the musical number “All That Jazz” from the musical “Chicago” policy regarding meetings. The reworking won best set at the district level, and during the monthly meeting of the Alexander City Board of Education Tuesday evening. will change the phrase stating meetings will several students were named to the district be held on the second and fourth Tuesday • During the financial report, Chief After the performances concluded, competition all-star cast. At the state level of each month, having it read meetings will Superintendent Dr. Darrell Cooper and the Schools Financial Officer Rhonda Blythe in December, there were several BRHS be held the third Tuesday of each month. said the system was in good shape board members had nothing but positive drama students who finished in the top The board was good with the wording, so financially, with $1.2 million in revenue things to say for the performances and the three in their respective categories, which over expenditures over the past month. All a second reading of the revision will take Culver described as being icing on the cake students’ talents on display. place at the next meeting. accounts had been reconciled, and with The board spent several minutes in if her students receive a superior rating.

• The board approved one out of approximately 4 months in cash reserve, the executive session near the end of the The performance began with Jared school system is in a better shape than what state field trip request, as well as several meeting to discuss a personnel matter.

Glenn, Emily Jones, Aubrey Culver, Bea overnight field trip requests, including was initially budgeted for. She also said Cooper said he felt the information Graves, Lucy Graves, Faith Hanna, Paris for the FFA and Technology Student Burdick and Za Stowes singing “Alexander presented during the session had been very that utility usage and cost was up slightly Association to attend their respective state in February, and despite a slight jump Hamilton” from the hit Broadway musical useful, and the board would continue to conventions. from last year to this year, the overall five consider the matter.

“Hamilton,” Adeline Treadwell and Tess The next meeting of the Alexander City The Alexander City Board of Education year comparison still showed an overall Staples took on a handful of roles each Board of Education will be held Tuesday, downward trend. also handled the following matters: in scenes from the film “Drop Dead April 17 in the lunchroom at Jim Pearson • The board approved the retirements • Minutes from the Feb. 20 and March 6 Gorgeous,” and the performance ended Elementary School. of Radney Elementary School counselor meetings were approved. with “All That Jazz” from “Chicago.”

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

Central Coosa Elementary School celebrates super citizens

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

Submitted / The Outlook

Cheyenne Peppers with the Horseshoe Bend FCCLA and Cheyanna Howard of the Horseshoe Bend Student Council introduce some of the special guest speakers during a special assembly Wednesday morning, raising awareness among the student body about traumatic brain injuries.

Horseshoe Bend holds special events Wednesday Bend FCCLA said. “Four

By DONALD CAMPBELL students here have been Staff Writer impacted by TBI, and two Horseshoe Bend School of them are still having fairly serious issues.” was a hive of activity After the February Wednesday morning, as assembly for the sixthstudents held a special and 12th graders, FCCLA moment to remember sponsor Felicia Williams the life of Pre-K student said they wanted to try and Armani Burton before do something larger to reach listening to several guest more of the student body. speakers help raise a Guest speakers included greater awareness to the Christy Clayton, Stephanie impact of traumatic brain Carroll, fourth-grader Gracie injuries.

Deason and her mother “We released around Jamie Peavy. These speakers 360 balloons this represented three of the four morning,” Pre-K teacher families at Horseshoe Bend Linda Daniel said. “We who have been impacted sold the balloons as a by traumatic brain injuries, fundraiser, and all the according to Peppers. money we raised went to “I felt it went well today, the Burton family.” and I thought the students Armani’s mother and grandmothers were present were very attentive,” Williams said. “We at the release and told wanted to bring a greater Daniel they were very awareness to TBI. We feel touched at the gesture, it was far more impactful which not only included hearing it from those who the balloon release, but had experienced it than also the presentation of simply talking about it.” a painting made for the “One of our speakers family. Entitled “Tea Party,” the image depicted said it felt better to talk about it,” Peppers added. young Armani as an “The injuries are different angel, and was painted by and the recoveries are someone who had never different from one person known the Pre-K student. to another.”

“I feel today went well In addition to holding overall,” Daniel said. these two assemblies, Following the balloon Peppers said Horseshoe release, the students in Bend students have been grades seven through 12 encouraged to wear green gathered in the gym for every Wednesday during a special assembly on traumatic brain injuries. A the month of March, since March is Brain Injury joint venture between the Awareness Month and school’s FCCLA chapter green is the color of brain and the student council, Wednesday’s assembly was injury awareness.

“People don’t always a follow-up from a similar realize how easy it is to event held by the FCCLA potentially have a serious in February.

“Traumatic brain injuries brain injury,” Peppers said. “It can happen from have impacted our school something as small as a pretty widely,” Cheyenne Peppers with the Horseshoe simple fall.”

For the past two months, the second and third grade classes at Central Elementary School in Coosa County have been receiving a special civics education course, “The Next Great Americans,” through the Liberty Learning Foundation.

Tuesday afternoon, approximately 200 students from both grades gathered in the elementary school gym for the program’s graduation ceremony, making all of the participants super citizens in the community.

“We’ve been on the road with this since 2011,” Liberty Learning Foundation Event Director Tawanna Vickers said. “We are honored that we get to touch the lives of students across the state of Alabama. Things like this aren’t always taught to our students.”

Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Vickers called upon volunteers from each class to come up and help recognize members of the community who the students thought were heroes in their own ways. Those picked by the second grade students were named Helping Hand Heroes and received a Helping Hand Heroes pin and a special Alabama Bicentennial gift, while the third grade chose a Torch Team Hero, who received a Torch Team Hero pin and Alabama Bicentennial gift, as well as a representation of the Statue of Liberty, containing a piece of material from the studio of French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, who designed the iconic New York landmark.

Representing Blake White’s second-grade class, Owen Mathis and Matthew Eubanks honored Joy Skinner, the janitor at Central Elementary School. Katie Alverson and T’Asiah Holley represented Jennifer McGraw’s second-grade class, who chose to recognize Central Elementary counselor Blair Tindell.

Ayden Williams and Jayden Jones,

Donald Campbell / The Outlook

Selected second- and third-grade students pose Tuesday afternoon with community members they honored as heroes during the Liberty Learning Foundation graduation ceremony at Central Coosa Elementary School. Posing along with the students, Principal Kara Forbus and Superintendent Andi Wilson were Ricky Porch of the Alabama Forestry Commission, Central Coosa School Resource Officer Bradgel Moon, CES counselor Blair Tindell and CES janitor Joy Skinner.

on behalf of the second-grade class of Pamela Gaddis, honored Ricky Porch of the Alabama Forestry Department.

Lastly, the third-graders collectively selected the school resource officer, Officer Bradgel Moon.

“We are proud that we are able to honor this person because she deserves it so much,” Mathis and Eubanks said. “Our Super Citizen keeps us safe by making sure the entire school is clean and germ free.

She cleans up terrible messes that not many people would.”

“Officer Moon protects our schools each day. He often walks the hallways or looks into each classroom to see if all is OK,” D.J., a thirdgrader, said. “He is the one willing to go toward trouble instead of running away.”

“Remember, when you honor a hero, you become a hero,” Vickers said.

Along with the recognition of the three Helping Hand Heroes and the Torch Team Hero, the children were thrilled to receive a video message from Libby Liberty, who took part in the Next Great Americans kickoff at Central Elementary. While she said she was unable to be at their

graduation due to being on the way to a kickoff event at another school, Libby Liberty told the children how proud she was of them for completing the program and becoming super citizens along the way.

The graduation ceremony concluded with each grade taking a super citizen pledge, reminding them to always do their best and do what is right, before singing the song “Only You Can Keep the ‘You’ in the USA.” As the children began to leave the gym, they were still showing the same excitement they had manifest during the program, which both Vickers and school officials were thrilled to see out of the second- and third-graders.

“We enjoy teaching students and empowering them to become the next great Americans,” Vickers said.

“We were very excited to be able to offer this opportunity to our students,” Central Elementary Principal Kara Forbus said.

“This was an opportunity for our students to see and be a small part of something larger,” Coosa County School Superintendent Andi Wilson said. “We wanted to provide this to our students.”

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Today is

March 22, 2018 Today’s Events

KIWANIS STEAK DINNER: The Alexander City Kiwanis Club is hosting its annual Auction and Steak Dinner March 22 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Mill Two Eighty, Russell Medical’s event venue.

Tickets are $50 and include

Thursday, March 22, 2018

The Outlook

drinks, dinner, live music and a silent and live auction.

SENIORX: Deborah Jones SeniorRx Coordinator will be available March 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce to help seniors see if they are eligible for assistance with diabetic supplies, liquid supplements and medications.

For more information Jones can be contacted at 1-800-361-1636 or 256-761-3575. This is sponsored by the Area Agency on Aging.

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

Edna Newman, Hilda Adams, Vivian McKae Moon, Kaitlyn Mixon, Hollie Payne, Donna Hutcherson, Monica Odom, Christie Dawn Heath, Shun Reese, Bernita Evans and Shamiriya Pogue are celebrating their birthdays today.

Today’s Anniversaries

Howard and Barbara Mattox and Brenda and Joe Croley celebrate their anniversaries today.

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

Members of the Alexander City Kiwanis Club discuss how to set up The Mill Two Eighty for its annual Auction and Steak Dinner being held tonight from 6 to 10 p.m. There will be drinks, dinner, live music and a silent and live auction.

Now-March 23

PRE-K REGISTRATION: Alabama’s Voluntary Pre-K Program is taking pre-registration. Forms can be found at https://alprek.asapconnected.com.

Acceptance is through a random drawing to be held April 15 at 10 a.m. at the V. Robinson Head Start Center.

Saturday, March 24

EASTER EGG HUNT: Wind Creek State Park is hosting an Easter egg hunt Saturday, March 24 at 10 a.m. Most eggs will have small prizes and prize eggs will be hidden for each age division. The age divisions are 0-2 years old, 2-4 years old, 5-8 years old and 9-12 years old. The event will take place in the north picnic area across from the beach. There is a park entry fee for non-campers.

ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF HORSESHOE BEND: Horseshoe Bend National Military Park is hosting the 204th anniversary of the Battle of the Horseshoe Saturday, March 24. There will be demonstrations of Indian and frontier life in the year 1814. The program is free to the public.

FAMILY GAME NIGHT: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have Family Game Night Bingo from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. Saturday March 24. Begin with hot dogs, pizza, chips and soft drinks.

CHEER AND MAJORETTE CAMP: The Studio will be holding a spring break cheer and majorette camp at the Cooper Recreation Center on Saturday, March 24 beginning at 9:30 a.m. and lasting until 1 p.m. Open for ages 3 to 18, the camp will give participants the chance to practice a routine, “Show What Ya Know,” that will be performed at 4 p.m. on the 24th.

Pre-registration is open until March 20, and the cost is $20. Late registration opens at 9 a.m. on March 24, and the late cost is $25.

Cost includes a T-shirt, snacks, lunch and a water bottle. Registration forms can be picked up at The Studio building at 520 North Central Avenue in Alexander City.

Sunday, March 25

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FAMILY AND FRIENDS DAY: Centerview Missionary Baptist Church in Camp Hill is celebrating family and friends day Sunday, March 25 at 2 p.m. The guest minister is Rev. Christopher Todd of New Home Baptist Church in Rockford.

Pastor of Centerview Missionary Baptist Church is Rev. Jimmial Harrison Sr.

March 26-30

HOLY WEEK SERVICES: First Baptist Church Dadeville is hosting Holy Week Services March 26-30 at 11 a.m. daily in the fellowship hall.

LENTEN LUNCH: St. James Episcopal Church is hosting a Lenten Lunch series Monday, March 26 through Friday, March 30 at noon with food and fellowship afterwards.

Speakers are: March 26 Rev. John Versiglio of First United Methodist Church, March 27 Rev. Robert Iler of St. James Episcopal Church, March 28 Rev. Dr. Emerson Ware of Great Bethel Baptist Church,

March 29 is Rev. Scott Railey of Hillabee Campground United Methodist Church and March 30 is Rev. Wayne Cowhick of Alex City Methodist Church.

March 28-30

HOLY WEEK REVIVAL: Haven Memorial United Methodist Church is hosting a Holy Week Spring Revival March 28-30 at 6 p.m. nightly.

Delivering sermons will be Pastor Percy L. Nolan, Jr. on Wednesday.

On Thursday is Pastor Joanne Finley and on Friday is Rev. Clifford Spradley.

Pastor of Haven Memorial is Percy L. Nolan Jr.

Thursday, March 29

VIETNAM VETERANS WELCOME HOME: The Auburn Veterans Project is celebrating and reflecting on the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans March 29 from 6 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.

LORDS SUPPER: Red Ridge United Methodist Church will present a re-creation of the Living Lord’s Supper inspired by Leonardo daVinci’s world famous painting of the Last Supper with 13 living characters. Rev. Ernest K. Emurian, a Methodist minister from Virginia, wrote the soliloquies for the Twelve Apostles as they might have expressed themselves immediately after hearing the Lord Jesus say “One of you will betray me” where each man cried out “Lord is it I?” This was the moment daVinci said he wished to capture in the painting. Mr. Harlan Burton of Union will be the guest pianist and soloist.

Holy communion will be offered at the conclusion. Red Ridge is located at 8091 County Road 34 in Dadeville and can be contacted at 256-8259820 or by visiting redridgeumc.org.

March 29 - April 1

HOLY WEEK SERVICES: Duncan United Methodist Church is hosting Holy Week Services. A Maunday Thursday service will be held March 29 at 7 p.m. A Good Friday service will be March 30 at 7 p.m. and an Easter Sunrise Service will be April 1 at 6 a.m. with breakfast.

Rev. Wayne Hicks is pastor at Duncan United Methodist.

Friday, March 30

EGG HUNT: Calvary Heights Baptist Church on 7th Way in Alexander City is hosting a Glow-inthe-Dark Egg Hunt March 30 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Glow eggs and bracelets will provided. Bring your Easter basket and join the fun.

Saturday, March 31

COMMUNITY WIDE EASTER

EGG HUNT: Kingz United and Adams Chapter OES #685 are jointhosting a community wide Easter egg hunt on Saturday, March 31 from 2 to 5 p.m. The event will take place at the Dadeville Recreation Center in the track and field area.

There will be family fun, egg prizes, refreshments and entertainment. Everyone is invited to join the fun and is asked to bring their own basket.

STOP THE VIOLENCE PICNIC: Gibraltar Lodge 173 and Soul Brothas are hosting the second annual Stop the Violence Picnic Saturday, March 31 at the Cooper Community Center beginning at 11 a.m.

There will be free food, games, motivational speakers, inmate speakers, gospel, country and clean rap music, praise dancers and an Easter egg hunt.

There will also be a retired NFL football and NBA basketball players car show. The event is sponsored by Lincoln Grand Lodge. The community center is located at 625 MLK Jr. Blvd. in Alexander City.

For more information, contact 256-750-2747 or 334-740-0739. The public is invited.

Sunday, April 1

PASTOR ANNIVERSARY: Friendship Missionary Baptist Church is honoring the 28th Pastor’s Anniversary for Rev. and Sister Roosevelt Gregory Sunday, April 1 at 2 p.m. The guest speaker at the morning service will be Rev. John Moore of Fletcher Chapel in Huntsville and at the evening service the guest speaker will be Rev. Bernard Harris of Mt. Lovely Baptist Church in Camp Hill.

EASTER CANTATA: Hillabee Baptist Church will host an Easter Cantata, “The Love of Jesus,” Sunday, April 1 at 10:30 a.m. with Mrs. Bea Pate directing.

Rev. Josh Sammons is pastor of Hillabee Baptist Church.

April 6-8

GREASE: The Dadeville High School Theater program is producing “Grease” April 6 at 7 p.m., April 7 at 7 p.m. and April 8 at 3 p.m. at the Dadeville High School auditorium.

April 7

BIANNUAL MEETING: Holly Springs Baptist Church Cemetery Association of Coosa County will have their biannual meeting at 10 a.m. at the church. All members please attend.

QUAIL FRY: The Lake Martin Area United Way is hosting its 3rd Annual Quail Fry April 7 at the The Stables at Russell Crossroads. The event includes fried quail, sides, a shrimp boil and shrimp gumbo.

There will be a bake goods sale, auction and music.

Tickets are $30 a person or $35 at the door. Doors open 5 p.m. and food will be served at 6 p.m. Tickets are available at the United Way office or in Dadeville at Valley National Bank, formerly USAmeriBank.

Call 256-329-3600 for more information.

BOATER SAFETY CLASS: ALEA Marine Patrol is hosting a free boater safety class April 7 at 8 a.m. at The Ridge Marina.

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Thursday, March 22, 2018

The Outlook

www.alexcityoutlook.com

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Thursday, March 22, 2018

Thursday, March 22, 2018

The Outlook

Zip Screaming Eagle’s Blake Lindsey said. “We are really excited to continue the collaboration between Screaming Eagle Zip Lines and the Alabama State Parks system.”

The partnership is something Alabama State Parks Director Greg Lein is pleased to see, especially considering funding.

“You all know that we have been financially challenged over the last several years,” Lein said.

“This did not cost the state or the parks anything.

This is a private business in our park. This is a partnership and we are really thrilled the way it is working and we think it is a model for more of this type of concept.”

While the aerial adventure system hosted guests last fall at Wind Creek and officially opened Friday, they held a ribbon cutting Wednesday. Now officially open, smiles and shrills of excitement are sure to continue through summer as was evident Wednesday morning at the park.

The Screaming Eagle zip lines at a state park is not a new idea as they have already established a system at Lake Guntersville State Park.

“This is the second park opened up under that partnership,” Lein said. “The other is at Lake Guntersville and there are now two phases to that system.”

Lein was first introduced to Screaming Eagles in another state.

“Several years ago, I had the privledge of going over to Banning Mills in Georgia and meet the owners and operators of Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventure,” Lein said. “We were so impressed by what they do there. They wanted to expand that program outside of Georgia and into other states. Their concept for that included state parks like we have in Alabama.

“We started the process to offer these concession contracts in select parks in Alabama.

We were thrilled that Banning Mills provided a proposal. In the end they were selected as the

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operator to establish these adventure systems in four parks.”

Alabama State Parks have also partnered with a vendor to provide cable skiing at Oak Mountain State Park.

It is something Lein sees will get more visitors for the parks for generations to come.

“We know over time this system of aerial adventure programs is going to be something along the lines of what people do for white water rafting or mountain biking,” Lein said. “They don’t just go do it once. They want to do all of them. I think eventually you will see a trail of this adventure in the Alabama State Parks system. It will be interesting to see it unfold over the years.”

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce President Ed Collari hopes the new zip lines will attract more to the area and Wind Creek State Park.

“We are really excited about this,” Collari said. “This is one of our hidden gems, our unique asset with a quarter a of million visitors a year. It is the biggest attraction we have in our community.

“Adding this amenity is a huge attraction. I have already heard the buzz in our community.”

With some zip lines reaching over 500 feet, visitors can test their fear of heights as they soar like an eagle over the park. It is something Wind Creek State Park Manager Bruce Adams and Lindsey hope will benefit the area and individuals.

“We hope to have a great summer here,” Lindsey said. “Spring break is about to kickoff.

We hope everyone gets to come out and enjoy our safe, fun adventure.”

“We look forward to a busy summer,” Adams said. “We look forward to the economic impact that will benefit the Alexander City and Lake Martin area. Lake Martin is open to the public and we are the public access to Lake Martin. We want to do everything we can to honor that.”

Above, Carla Culligan crosses one of the sky bridges at the park.

Left, Alabama State Parks Director Greg Lein speaks at the ribbon cutting to the Wind Creek Zipline and Aerial Adventure Wednesday morning.

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

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

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Tide, Tiger hoops gave us a fun ride

S

omeone once told me basketball was just something Auburn and Alabama did to pass the time between football seasons. Perhaps, but we sure had a fun time.

If you told me last October that Auburn JOE would: 1) play the entire MCADORY season without standouts Danjel Purifoy and Austin Columnist Wiley, 2) be subject of an FBI investigation, 3) drop its exhibition opener to Barry and 4) lose starting center Anfernee McLemore in February but still win the SEC regular season championship and reach the second round of the NCAA Tournament … I might have questioned the contents inside your medicine bottles.

But it did. Not only that, the Tigers won 26 games along the way, beat Kentucky and made most games inside Auburn Arena a tough ticket.

Besides that, Auburn Arena was simply a fun, crazy atmosphere. Fans left happy, excited — something that hadn’t happened for Auburn basketball since the days of Doc Robinson, Chris Porter and Cliff Ellis. The drab, lifeless Tony Barbee Era is now a distant memory.

If you told me Alabama would lose five SEC games down the stretch, lose 15 games overall and still find a way to reach the NCAA Tournament’s round of 32, I probably would not have believed you — but I wouldn’t have been surprised, either.

Tournament selection committees don’t like teams that fold down the stretch, nor do they like teams that lose 15 games. On the other hand, Alabama won just enough games and beat the right people — proving the Crimson Tide could give anybody a serious run for their money. Virginia Tech found out the hard way. So did Tennessee and Florida.

Basketball was certainly more than just something to do between football seasons.

It vaulted Auburn to places it hasn’t been for years. It allowed us to marvel at the incredible NBA talent of Alabama’s Collin Sexton. It gave us three memorable showdowns between the Tide and Tigers.

Alabama upset the Tigers in Tuscaloosa without Sexton, its best player.

Auburn walloped Alabama at Auburn just days after losing McLemore. Then Alabama used a second-half bulldozer to crush Auburn in the SEC Tournament.

Even Alabama’s sports conditioning coach and Auburn coach Bruce Pearl had a war of words. Yes indeed, the Iron Bowl of basketball is alive and well.

So where do we go from here? The aforementioned FBI investigation might have something to say about it. Then again, maybe it won’t. Assuming nothing changes, imagine an Auburn roster next season that loses nobody — and possibly even gains Purifoy and Wiley? Regardless, Auburn will put a ton of talent on the floor again next season.

What about Alabama? Avery Johnson continues to build a solid program here. I expect more production from sophomoreto-be John Petty, assuming he doesn’t declare for the NBA Draft. I think it’s in his best interest to remain in school. You would think Sexton, a presumed lottery pick, would bolt for the pros. Only he knows the answer to that. An Alabama team with both returning can be very dangerous.

Alabama and Auburn have the potential for bright basketball futures and I expect their matchups at Coleman Coliseum and Auburn Arena to be some of the best of the season. Maybe Petty will light it up again. Maybe Jared Harper will go off on the Alabama defense. Maybe Pearl and Alabama’s strength coach will shake and make up. Maybe someone will finally sing the other school’s fight song again during the ODK-Foy Sportsmanship Trophy presentation.

Yep, basketball is something to do between football seasons … and I’m looking forward to it.

Joe McAdory is Communications Editor at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business.

LOCAL SPORTS CALENDAR Thursday, March 22 High school baseball Horseshoe Bend at LaFayette, 4:30 p.m.

Randolph County at Central Coosa (2), 4:30 p.m.

High school softball Horseshoe Bend at Reeltown, 6 p.m.

Dadeville at Tallassee, 2 Winterboro at Central Coosa, 6 p.m.

High school girls soccer

Benjamin Russell at Prattville, 7 p.m.

High school tennis Smiths Station at Benjamin Russell, 4 High school track & field BRHS at Sylacauga Reeltown at Troy College baseball Central Alabama at Bevil State (2), noon College softball Central Alabama at Shelton State, 2 p.m.

Sports Outlook The

Thursday, March 22, 2018

Game of the Week

Generals, Rebels renew rivalry

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

A year ago, Horseshoe Bend and Reeltown’s softball teams went back and forth all season. Every time it looked like the Generals would have an advantage, the Rebels would steal one away. Although Reeltown won the area tournament, Horseshoe Bend climbed further in the state tournament.

Not only is this a big local rivalry, it’s also the Class 2A Area 8 matchup of the season for both squads.

Despite records and perceived strengths, this one could be anyone’s game when the Rebels host Horseshoe Bend tonight at 6 p.m. for the Game of the Week.

“I take every day as a new game, and anybody can execute and win on any day,” Reeltown coach Kelli Hilyer said. “I really don’t put a whole lot into the stats and everything because it depends on who’s playing who that day.”

Horseshoe Bend is going through some growing pains this season with a 5-11 record, but the Generals have also had some time to regroup, as they haven’t played since last Tuesday.

The Generals are actually hitting the ball much better than a year ago. They boast a team batting average of .411.

Of players with more than 30 plate appearances, six of those are batting over .500. Lilly Combs leads the way with an average of .533 and an on-base

File / The Outlook

Reeltown’s Kayli Hornsby (24) makes a play against Horseshoe Bend’s Lilly Combs during a game last year. The teams meet again tonight for the Game of the Week.

percentage of .576. Other top hitters are Caly Carlisle (.472), Cheyanna Howard (.467), Ivy Vickers (.447), Hannah Adcock (.429) and Leighann McWhorter (.409).

The problem for Horseshoe Bend so far obviously isn’t at the plate, but defensively, it can’t say the same. In 16 games so far, they’ve committed 58 errors and have a team fielding percentage of just .807.

Danielle Mitchell will mostly likely start in the circle tonight. She’s thrown 62 2/3 innings this season and has an ERA of 4.021. She has allowed 89 hits and 36 earned runs. While she’s struck out 45 batters, she’s also walked 25.

For Reeltown (10-7-1),

pitching is its biggest strength.

Ayriana Stoneback will get the nod tonight, and she’s been a force all season long. She has an ERA of 2.110 in 69 2/3 innings pitched. She’s given up just 57 hits, and although she’s walked 21 batters, she has fanned 73.

Offensively, the Rebels aren’t quite as strong as Horseshoe Bend, but they’ve also faced some steep competition.

“When we went to Wetumpka, we played some pretty tough competition,” Hilyer said. “So even though we lost, I think that helped us prepare to get even stronger for the games we have coming.”

Makenzie Baker leads the team with a batting average

of .422, and Morgan McGuire is right behind with .421 and her on-base percentage is a staggering .600. Kayli Hornsby (.386), Kyndel Lee (.385) and Katlyn Jaye (.311) also have strong at-bat presences.

“It’s hard to pick just one standout because we have seven seniors out on the field that you can tell they’re playing their hearts out every inning,” Hilyer said. “Plus, we have two returning juniors from varsity last year, and we’ve got three juniors that were on JV last year and they’re helping too.

That’s what I try to put forth is that it’s a team effort and you put forth your best effort in the role that you’re asked to play that day, and so far, everybody’s doing that.”

Benjamin Russell boys sweep home meet score one run. Marlee Knox kept things going with a onerun double before the inning’s end.

Reeltown totaled 11 hits in the game, led by two apiece from Lee, Hornsby, Katlyn Jaye and Knox. Hornsby drove in three runs.

Ayriana Stoneback picked up the complete-game victory, scattering five hits and allowing just one walk. The only run Sylacauga scored was unearned, and Stoneback also fanned seven batters.

STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

Despite some cold temperatures and blustering winds, Benjamin Russell took to the golf course and defeated Sylacauga and Clay Central on Tuesday afternoon. The Wildcats carded a total score of 324, while Sylcauga and Clay Central turned in 331 and 389, respectively.

Dylan Moncus led the Wildcats with a score of 75.

Also competing for BRHS were Sawyer Scott, Matthew Cush, Kylee Reeder, Sawyer Parks and Trey Shockley.

The girls also played well, but came up short against Sylacauga. Hannah Henderson, Logan Johnson, Karlie Royster and Keegan Wendling all competed for the Wildcats.

Trojans sweep MMI

BOYS SOCCER Wildcats dominate Sylacauga, 6-1

Finally Benjamin Russell’s boys soccer team seemed to put everything together, and it came at the right time as the Wildcats secured a big victory over rival Sylacauga, 6-1.

“This was probably the best game we’ve played so far this season,” BRHS coach Austin Teel said. “I put it back in the hands of the seniors. I told them that this is their season to remember, and they stepped up as seniors. They got the team going and buying into what Wildcat soccer is.”

Brandon Welcher and Luke Harvey each had hat tricks in the win, but Teel was actually more impressed with his assist men. Jesus Valesquez, Lucas Roberts, Brooks Parker and Lucan Yates all recorded at least one assist.

“We played simple, 1-2 touch soccer, and that was probably the greastest part,” Teel said. “Everything started from a give-and-go, and that was probably the most impressive thing last night. You love to see the goals, but it was the assists more than the goals that really got us there.”

File / The Outlook

Benjamin Russell’s Keegan Wendling prepares to hit a ball earlier this season. The Wildcats were edged by Sylacauga on Tuesday.

especially when taking over the lone centerback role as the Wildcats put up more forwards Unlike the boys team, Benjamin Russell’s girls soccer to try to combat Sylacauga’s team didn’t put together its best defense. effort, and it resulted in a 1-0 SOFTBALL loss to Sylacauga on Tuesday Rebels claim big win night.

After 10 days off, After Sylacauga scored its Reeltown’s softball team got goal with about 10 minutes left in the first half, it went into back on the right track with a 7-1 victory over Sylacauga on a defense-first mentality, and Tuesday night to snap a threeBenjamin Russell never could game losing skid. break through.

The Rebels (10-7-1) opened “At the beginning of the game with a trio of runs in the game, they had already committed that they were going the bottom of the first inning to play defense and try to get a and never looked back. Morgan McGuire led off with a walk through ball and a one-on-one with our keeper,” BRHS coach then was moved to second on a sacrifice bunt from Kyndel Lee Wagoner said. “After Lee. Kayli Hornsby plated the they got that goal, they really bunkered down and put six first run with a single to score players within the 18. We need McGuire, and Reeltown kept to spread the ball around and things going with a two-out work to create shots. We were rally. looking for an easy goal.”

Kelsey Jaye singled to Wagoner said Kylee Stark centerfield, and Makenzie was a standout defensively, Baker batted into an error to

GIRLS SOCCER BRHS falls in 1-goal game

Central Alabama Community College’s softball team got the best of the Marion Military Institute in pair of close games on Tuesday afternoon. The Trojans closed out a 2-1 victory in the first game, then won the nightcap, 5-2.

In the opener, CACC (2310) trailed 1-0 most of the way but finally put two runs across in the bottom of the sixth to claim the victory. With one out, Shatima Smith and Courtney Ray hit back-to-back home runs for the win.

In Game 2, it was a four-run third inning that ensured the victory for CACC. Sierra Easterwood led the Trojans with four hits in the doubleheader; Smith and Ray each had two.

Both of CACC’s pitchers had fine performances.

Easterwood opened the day with a four-hitter that featured six strikeouts and three walks.

In the second game, Amber Parker also scattered four hits.

Although she walked five, she struck out eight.

BASEBALL CACC dominated by Chattahoochee Valley

Central Alabama Community College’s offense fell silent in an 11-0 loss to Chattahoochee Valley on Tuesday night. The Trojans (1118) managed only three hits in the five-inning game.

Pryce Fletcher, Mossy Mueller and Jackson Hornsby (Reeltown) each had singles.