March 7, 2018 Alex City Outlook

FLOWERS, FULLER, MORGAN AND HOLT COLUMNS INSIDE TODAY’S PAPER SPORTS, THE WEDNESDAY PAGE 10

Longtime Wildcats’ assistant Kevin Smith takes the reigns of the Benjamin Russell football program.

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

March 7, 2018 Vol. 126, No. 47 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢

MURDER CASES IN COURT:

By MITCH SNEED Editor

Several high-profile murder cases are due in court Wednesday morning where pleas are scheduled and in some cases motions could be heard.

Judge Steven Perryman is set to preside over the proceedings, which are set to begin at 9 a.m. in the main courtroom at the Tallapoosa County Courthouse Alexander City Annex off Lee Street.

New Site updated on gym plans

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer The New Site Town Council heard the latest updates during Monday night’s meeting as the town continues to try and make progress on the issues with renovating the old gymnasium and upgrading the town’s water system.

The town recently received a notification from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management that all the legal documents regarding the town’s grant for upgrading the water system were being prepared. “We hope to be able to go over them and sign them at the next council meeting,�

Mayor Phil Blasingame said.

In addition, there were still two right-of-way easements the town was working on getting from landowners so work can begin, but the mayor said he believes this will not be a major hurdle to clear, and that work can begin within the next 30 days.

See PLANS • Page 3

While the six murder suspects are due in court for pleas Wednesday, it is unclear which will be called for trial in the upcoming trial session in Alexander City.

The list of suspects expected to have pleas entered today include: • The man accused of the 2015 murders of a brother and sister he shared a mobile home with in the Goldville community has been found competent to stand trial and has a plea appearance set for Wednesday in

Six suspects on docket today in Alexander City

Alexander City.

Dean Carl Stevens, 53, had been indicted on two counts of capital murder in the shooting deaths of Dianna Mitchell Sharpe, 48, and Robert Wayne Mitchell by a Tallapoosa County Grand Jury in Aug. 2016.

The brother and sister were shot to death in the mobile home they shared on Pate Road in Goldville Oct. 8, 2015. Authorities said shortly after the shootings, that Stevens, who was Sharpe’s boyfriend, allegedly admitted

to shooting the two after surrendering to New Site Police. • Franklin Nathan Price Jr., 53, of Alexander City was indicted on felony murder charges earlier this year after having been arrested on April 22, 2016, two days after his neighbor, 49-year-old Elbert Clyde Wilson died after being shot as he cut grass on a riding lawnmower in his yard at 3823 Highway 63.

See COURT • Page 6

Woman faces theft from elderly charge

A VOICE IN THE DARKNESS

Sitter allegedly took thousands from victim’s bank accounts

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

communicate between divers and boat operators.

ACRS President Ken Cowart said the rescue squad has tried for several years to get a grant like this, and is glad to have tried again and been awarded with it because the system is going to help the squad tremendously.

Cowart turned all the lights off in the

Alexander City resident Natalie Dawn Wyckoff, 39, has been charged with financial abuse of the elderly after a March 5 arrest without incident.

The charge stems from when Wyckoff was sitting with an elderly Alexander City resident and was able to obtain the financial information of a Wyckoff 62-year-old victim. “She was able to take over $6,400 from the victim’s accounts,� ACPD Chief Jay Turner said. “Mrs. Wyckoff was a sitter and the problem was discovered when they went to apply for a nursing home.�

The incident report narrative indicates that Wyckoff sat with the victim for a week in September and that she made

See GRANT • Page 6

See THEFT • Page 9

Santana Wood / The Outlook

Alexander City Rescue Squad President Ken Cowart goes over the new underwater communication system and explains how it works and what it means for the rescue squad at Monday night’s meeting.

Rescue squad gets grant for underwater communication system

By SANTANA WOOD Staff Writer

The Alexander City Rescue Squad has been awarded with a $3,500 grant for a new underwater communication system from the Coosa Valley Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council.

The underwater communication system is going to make a difference to the rescue squad by giving it the ability to

County school board hears from students on safety, achievement

By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer

Student presentations were a key part of Monday night’s meeting of the Tallapoosa County Board of Education.

The board heard a presentation on school safety ideas from a student at Dadeville High School and recognized others for their achievements at a recent competition of science students.

Dadeville High School junior Beth White, who also takes law enforcement classes at the Edward Bell Career Tech Center, gave a presentation detailing

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some of her research into school shootings and ways to make schools in the Tallapoosa County system safer for everyone. “There have been seven purposeful shootings at schools this year, and 172 since 2013,� White said. “Most are current or former students. Many of those who engaged in these actions were bullied. 78 percent of them either attempted suicide or had thoughts about it.�

In order to make schools safer, she presented devices she found online, including the JustinKase, invented by

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a high school student in Wisconsin.

The JustinKase is made of steel plates and connecting rods, which slides under a classroom door and makes it virtually impossible for someone outside the room to open the door. She also found information about a teacher panic button, which instantly alerts school administration and authorities.

Along with these devices, White also recommended updated surveillance cameras that do not encounter lag issues, the Anonymous Alerts app, which allows students to report bullying

Dadeville High School junior Beth White talks with the Tallapoosa County Board of Education, presenting her research and ideas on how to make the county schools safer for everyone during Monday night’s board meeting.

See SCHOOLS • Page 6

Lake Martin

Today’s

Lake Levels

Weather

486.12

56 31 High

Low

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Memories of long-ago assault relived by #MeToo movement

Thursday

56 31 Low

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Friday

63 42 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

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 katie.wesson@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Digital Marketing Coordinator, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Rebecca Carlisle Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 rebecca.carlisle@alexcityoutlook.com Erin Burton Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 erin.burton@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

Postal

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

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.

The Outlook is published five times a week, Tuesday through Saturday mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box © 2011 Tallapoosa 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.

Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, requires written publisher permission.

Alexander City, AL 35011.

How to Submit Obituaries

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

The Outlook

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

DEAR ABBY: Years ago, my husband and I hosted a St. Patrick’s Day party in our apartment for friends. There was a lot of drinking going on. I had to be at work early the next morning, so I went to bed while the party went on. I awoke a short while later to one of the men attempting to rape me.

He stopped and attempted an apology by saying, “But you are just so pretty.”

My husband and I graduated from high school with this person, and he is/was part of the same circle of friends.

I have not told many people, but the few who do know have maintained a friendship with him, including my husband.

Because of the #MeToo campaign, all the emotions have come to a head for me now. I think about this assault daily. The worst thing for me is that even though he knows about it, my husband has chosen to remain friends with him for 35 years. How can I get

DEAR ABBY Advice

past this? -- CAN’T FORGET IN VIRGINIA DEAR CAN’T FORGET: I can only imagine how traumatic the assault was, and for that you have my sympathy. The friends you confided in may feel that because your attacker was drunk, what he did was somehow excusable. That your husband would be so forgiving is, frankly, shocking.

It may take the help of a licensed mental health professional to put this behind you, if that’s possible. I sincerely hope you will reach out to a therapist who treats post-traumatic stress as well as victims of sexual assault, and include your husband in some of the sessions.

Frances (Fran) Lora Merrill A Celebration of Life Graveside Service for Frances (Fran) Lora Merrill, 81, of Marion, TX will be held Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at Tallapoosa Memory Gardens in Dadeville, AL. Rev. Wayne Cowhick will officiate.

An angel gained her heavenly wings this week. As much heartbreak as it has been to watch her go, I am sure she danced her way into heaven with that beautiful smile and eyes lit up. She had a tiny body, but the biggest heart, and was everyone’s prayer warrior. What an inspiration you are to us. Our love and admiration will never fade. We will miss you until we see

each other again.

Fran was surrounded by family and passed away peacefully in her home on March 1, 2018.

She is survived by her brother, Russel (Ginny) Estridge of Duluth, WI; son, Ron (Renay) Baumgardner of Montgomery, AL; daughter, Becky (Bobby) Cleveland of Alexander City, AL; son, Russell (Terri) Woods of Schertz, TX; grandchildren, Eric Baumgardner of Birmingham, AL; Dylan Baumgardner of Atlanta, GA; Mindy O’Brien of Auburn, AL; Kristin Springer, Amanda Rogers, Allison Woods and Katie Woods of Schertz, TX and 6 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Eugene (Gene) L. Merrill;

Alexander City Police Department March 5

• Arthena Lakeithia Thomas, 25, of Alexander City was arrested for four counts of failure to appear.

• Natalie Dawn Wyckoff, 39, of Alexander City was arrested for financial abuse of the elderly.

• Damien Quintez Calhoun, 23, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

• Emma Paige Beck, 25, of Titus was arrested for theft.

• Scotty Perez Marbury, 45, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and theft.

• Possession of marijuana was reported on Daywell Street.

• Theft was reported on Cedar Creek Lane.

• Leaving the scene of an accident was reported on Highway 280.

• Theft was reported on Washington Street.

March 4

• Paul Leono Brooks, 51, of Alexander City was arrested for failure to appear.

• Shadowskia Oshea Edwards, 40, of Alexander City was arrested for domestic violence and public intoxication.

• John Patrick Johnson, 31, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and unlawful possession of a firearm.

• Jamicheal Alvin Leonard, 19, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of marijuana.

• Possession of drug paraphernalia was reported on I Street.

• Theft was reported on Oak Street.

• Domestic violence was reported on North Central Avenue.

• Menacing was reported on Washington Street.

• Burglary and theft was reported on North Central Avenue.

• Possession of marijuana was reported on Central Boulevard.

• Possession of a con-

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DEAR ABBY: What would you say about a man who still keeps a photo of himself with his late wife as his computer background picture two years after he remarried? -SECOND-FIDDLE SECOND WIFE DEAR WIFE: I’d say he may be too lazy or computer-inept to update it. If it were me, I’d “volunteer” to help him change it.

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.

parents William (Bill) Estridge and Norma Louise Cunningham Estridge; and brother Richard (Dick) Estridge.

All are welcome to attend and celebrate Fran’s life. In lieu of flowers please send donation to a charity of your choice.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Caryn Zappone a special friend who exemplifies Proverbs 18:24 and Hope Hospice of New Braunfels, TX for their compassionate and professional care.

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

Langley Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Police Reports

135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL

131 Mason Street Alexander City, AL (256) 234-6355

sexual orientation? On the other hand, if the answers to my questions are no, then I doubt that telling your son what’s what will drive him any further away from you than he already is.

Obituaries

SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON

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DEAR ABBY: I’m a 55-yearold gay man with a problem.

My 22-year-old son doesn’t know I’m gay. It was after my divorce that I started seeing men again.

I married my life partner of 13 years last year. My husband thinks I should sit my son down and tell him. I want to tell my son and be honest with him about my relationship with my husband, but my son is very religious and I’m afraid this will drive a wedge between us.

Plus, I’m afraid of what ideas my ex would fill his head with about me. Please advise. -CONFUSED IN THE SOUTH DEAR CONFUSED: You say your son is 22 and you have been with your now-husband for 13 years.

Haven’t you had regular visitation with your son all this time? Doesn’t he like your husband? If the answers to those questions are yes, then what makes you think he isn’t already aware of your

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.

trolled substance and possession of marijuana was reported on Highway 280.

March 3

• LeCorthney Drelle Jackson, 33, of Jacksons Gap was arrested for theft and domestic violence.

• Tony Ostelle Calhoun, 33, of Alexander City was arrested for unlawful possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Markevious Jamon Scroggins, 21, of Tallassee was arrested for possession of a concealed weapon without a permit.

• Stephen Antonio Huntly, 34, of Sylacauga was arrested for giving false information to law enforcement.

• Burglary and theft was reported on Gamble Place.

• Domestic violence was reported on Montgomery Street.

• Assault was reported on Smith Street.

• Harassment was reported on Mason Street.

• Possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia was reported on Washington Street.

• Harassment was reported on Tallapoosa Street.

• Giving false identification to a law enforcement officer was reported in Alexander City.

March 2

• Joshua Andrew Tapley, 30, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of a controlled substance.

• Possession of a controlled substance was reported on 10th Avenue.

• Theft was reported on Carver Street.

• Domestic violence was reported on Town Creek Road.

• Criminal trespass was reported on South Road Court.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Burglary and theft was reported in Alexander City

March 1

• Wendy Erlene Gortney, 48, of Alexander City was arrested for possession of a substance and driving under the influence of a controlled substance.

• Justavian Tyrick Norris, 21, of Alexander City was

arrested for bail jumping.

• Katrina Yvonne Russell, 26, of Goodwater was arrested for bail jumping.

• LaJarvis Dashun McKinney, 26, of Alexander City was arrested for failure of adult sex offender to register with law enforcement.

• Arthur Deon Daniel, 40, of Alexander City was arrested for terrorist threat.

• Scotty Joe Woodard, 41, of Kellyton was arrested for two counts of failure to appear.

• Harassment was reported on Airport Drive.

• Possession of a controlled substance was reported on Highway 280.

• Unlawful breaking and entering and theft was reported in Alexander City.

• Unlawful breaking and entering and theft was reported on Highway 280.

• Theft was reported on Highway 280.

• Domestic violence was reported in Alexander City.

• Terrorist threat was reported on Court Square.

Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department March 5

• Brian Trammell of Houston Street in Alexander City was arrested on an outstanding warrant for grand jury indictment receiving stolen property, possession of meth, possession of marijuana second and drug paraphernalia.

March 4

• Bernard Russell of U.S. Highway 280 in Alexander City was arrested on grand jury indictments of possession of synthetic marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia and transported to the county jail.

• A resident of Girls Ranch Road in Camp Hill filed a report for criminal mischief.

March 3

• Pretis Sanders of 3rd Street in Montgomery was arrested on a grand jury indictment for theft of property first and was transported to the county jail.

• A resident of Churchill Road in Camp Hill filed a report for theft of property.

• A resident of Alabama Highway 120 filed a report for domestic violence.

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Wednesday, March 7, 2018

Plans

The Outlook

continued from page 1

“We’re excited to be close to starting this work,� Blasingame said. “We’ll be getting 16 new fire hydrants around town, a generator at the pumping station, new lines and the ability to increase the pressure in the Goldville community.�

Further good news on the water system subject came in the form of a notification that the work on the water line on Lashley Road was virtually complete, other than one or two small items left to be tended to.

With the engineering firm Gunn & Associates finishing up the blueprints on the gym facility, including an electrical layout, Blasingame said the completed plans will be sent out to the firms that have expressed interest in installing fire alarms and safety exit lights inside the building. Using this, the companies will be able to give the town a more accurate cost estimate for the work so the town can determine where to go from there.

Near the end of the meeting, Councilman Billy Daniel reminded the rest of the council that they had been considering providing health insurance for town employees and stressed being serious in trying to offer this benefit. In order to have the most up-to-date information possible, the town was requesting the two companies that had presented proposals in the recent past send in updated proposals.

Blasingame said the council will continue to look at this and hopefully be able to offer this when formulating the fiscal year 2019 budget.

The New Site Town Council also took action on the following items: • Senior Activity Center Director Jan Kennedy reported the center had a successful Rook tournament, with 28 players taking part. She said local seniors are continuing to frequent the center on Tuesdays and Thursdays for regular activities, and the center is also looking into potentially having a trip for the seniors in the near future. • After voting to disconnect the town weather sirens at the Feb. 20 meeting, the mayor reported that the sirens have officially been taken offline. • Police Chief Philip Weddle and Officer Justin Farr reported things have been fairly quiet overall. Also during the police reports, the council voted to allow the department to participate in the 1033 Program/Alabama Surplus Property Division at an annual cost of $150. This program allows for police departments to obtain equipment deemed surplus by the United States Department of Defense. • It was reported that the town’s website had been updated with new information on city employees, as well as a brand new page about the Senior Activity Center and one containing a regularly updated town calendar, showing council meetings and events at the senior center.

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Page 3

There are ‘Good people are out there’ I

f you didn’t make it down Highway 9 to ‘Nixburg House’ on Saturday, you likely missed a great sale. My friend Rose set up with some really neat things, including a large hornet’s nest, plus, dishes, glasses and coffee cups galore.

I had my share of neat things as well. We enjoyed the patrons much. There were lots of chatty folks.

I share an especially sweet story of local kindness.

Something that is quite a rarity these days because we are usually afraid of people we don’t know.

Rose introduced me to one of her neighbors, Daniel Culpepper, a friendly and handsome fellow who chatted freely. After he looked around in Nixburg, he made the drive to Santuck.

Upon arrival, he saw a man with his hood up in distress. Thinking someone had already called for help, with so many folks there, he went on. When leaving Santuck, the man was still there with the hood up, so Daniel asked if he needed some help. The man said he didn’t know what was

ROSIE MORGAN Columnist

wrong, the vehicle just would not start.

To that, Daniel advised him to turn on his lights, turn them off and try it again. The man followed directions, and it cranked right up. He tried to pay Daniel something, which he turned down saying he was glad to help.

The man looked Daniel straight in the eyes, and asked, “Are you an angel?�

Now is that not the most heart-warming ‘pay-itforward’ story you have heard in a while? Good people are out there. They are sometimes hard to see in the crowds!

Ron and I have both been to the doctors a lot lately.

I have had so many tests, here and there, we barely had a free day. Now, at least I have diagnoses, and the recovery and curing should be gravy, at least I hope it will. Peggie Ott’s prayers

will get me by.

So much infection and flu about, wishing those who have these things can get over them without too much delay. The little ones also suffer so much. Ms. Peggie-Sue Ott has kept her two-year-old grandson Rhett several days. Turns out the poor little mite had ear infections and bronchitis.

This Friday evening you will want to be in Equality for EPAC’s free entertainment. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins 7 p.m. The Harmonettes, The Glenn Trio and Peggy Shores will be on the piano tickling the ivories to accompany perfect harmony with Gayle Glenn Sellers, Peggy Glenn Shores and Kelley Whisnand.

No matter the weather, the fellowship and warmth will be everywhere inside, all evening.

It’s true that a picture is worth a thousand words.

Two weeks ago, I shared a photo of our newly adopted young dog Rocky from the Elmore County Shelter.

The front door was barely cracked open one afternoon and out charged several

dogs. The last of which was Rocky. It was a drizzly day.

The long-term members of our pack returned one at-atime, but no Rocky. We called and blew whistles until it was very dark, and even the next day thinking Rocky had lost the scent of those that returned in the gentle all-night rain.

We thought we had lost our new baby, then that evening, the phone rang. It was our kind neighbor Mr. Wright from his farm on Coosa 4 saying his grandson noticed a white dog on the hilltop. When he brought it home, Mr. Wright realized it was the same dog that appeared in the newspaper.

He called numbers on the tag and got our number. It was such a joy to get out baby home. We surely do appreciate that Mr. Wright is also a dog-owner and lover going the extra mile, and The Outlook for including pictures for me.

Morgan is a community columnist for The Outlook.

She is a resident of Nixburg and writes about the events and people of the Equality and Nixburg areas.

All had fun at AC Parks and Rec 50+ Bunco

T

he Alexander City Parks and Recreation 50+ ring bells with excitement and glee during monthly Bunco gathering.

We had 17 people at Bunco for their scheduled monthly gathering.

Winners: Ann Slay with Bunco, Brenda Tankersley got Most Rounds, Roy Jones with Low, Carole Fields was awarded Snake Eyes, and Kathy Luke three of a kind. The group had a potluck feast and a great time. Brenda Burnette was there to play.

CORLEY HOLT Columnist Welcome back!

Those that participate in the Better Half group are welcome to call Lillian to see of any open spots for the Queen’s group outing this Thursday for lunch at Lloyd’s Garden volunteers are needed to help prep and prepare our senior center

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1144 Airport Drive 256.215.8014 Alexander City, AL

garden. Larry Marbury is our senior garden leader.

Any helping hands would be greatly appreciated.

Travel Group C has an outing this Friday leaving at 8:30 a.m. So rise and shine! We’re heading to Goshen, AL. Yard sale at the Activity Center located in the Charles E Bailey Sportplex this Saturday. Bernice Whetstone is our senior leader for yard sales. Get to cleaning up and cleaning out!

Group leaders and

key holders meeting on Monday, March 19 from 12:30 p.m. till 1:30 p.m.

The monthly luncheon is Wednesday, March 21.

RSVP for the luncheon by the 14th. It is $5 per person to attend. Guest speakers will be from local business, Mortgage Pros.

Until next time keep a smile on your face and love in your heart.

Holt writes about the Alexander City Parks and Recreation Department’s 50+ Program.

Opinion

MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213

editor@alexcityoutlook.com

EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed

Page 4

www.alexcityoutlook.com

Opinion

T

he Alabama Republican Party sent out a press release Monday heralding the resolutions it passed at its annual meeting of Feb. 24.

The release cited a resolution urging the Alabama State Legislature to pass legislation in the 2018 session that would ban all abortions of babies which have been diagnosed with Down Syndrome, a resolution to urge legislators to be as tough as possible on illegal immigrants, oppose any proposed ‘DACA’ bill which grants amnesty to so called dreamers, a resolution asking legislators to “pass legislation in the 2018 session to ban all abortions of babies beyond 20 weeks of fertilization, unless the mother’s life is at stake” and a resolution honoring the life of Rev. Billy Graham.

All those moves are in keeping with the party’s platforms and their passage wasn’t a surprise. While the GOP was careful to outline the details of these resolutions, they didn’t include news on how it turned on one of its own.

At the same meeting where the above resolutions were passed and where they threw Tallapoosa County Commission hopeful Frank Tapley off their primary ballot, the Alabama GOP attempted to censure Alabama Senator Richard Shelby, because he refused to support Roy Moore’s failed bid to join him in the U.S. Senate.

A Moore victory in the election would have been a disaster and would have continued to make our state a laughing stock and the target for late night comedians’ punch lines.

Shelby had the courage to stand tall against pressure from the state and national party leadership that pressured all Republicans including local parties to support and endorse Moore in his run against Doug Jones for the Senate spot.

It’s not like Shelby endorsed the Democrat Jones or Charles Manson.

Shelby told the truth and said that Moore wasn’t fit to serve in the U.S. Senate. Shelby said that rather than voting for Moore that he would write in another qualified Republican.

We saw that as the perfect answer. Why would anyone of character have supported Moore with all that he was accused of, let alone the fact had failed to obey his judicial oath of office and uphold the law that he was sworn to follow?

Fortunately the effort to censure Shelby failed, but it’s a shame that even an attempt to discredit a man who has meant so much to Alabama was made.

Shelby did what he thought was right and showed he was strong enough to ignore intense pressure. Isn’t that what we should want from our elected officials? We think so and praise Shelby for his courage, regardless of what some of his party’s leaders think.

Know Your

Officials

T.C. Coley represents District 1, including half of Coley Creek, the Andrew Jackson subdivision, the southern part of Indian Hill, North Central Avenue, part of Pearson’s Chapel Road, the Northside community and portion of Spring Hill T.C. Coley community. His phone number is 256-212-9316. His address is 2316 North Central Avenue, Kellyton.

Steve Robinson represents District 2, which includes the southern part of Alexander City, the Cedar Creek area, Ourtown and Willow Point. His phone number Steve Robinson is 256-654-0047. His address is 300 Heritage Drive Alexander City.

John McKelvey represents District 3, which includes Jackson’s Gap, Hackneyville, New Site and Daviston.

McKelvey currently serves as chairman.

His phone number is 256-794-4405. His address is 1285 Freeman John Road, Dadeville.

Emma Jean Thweatt represents District 4, which includes Dadeville, Pace’s Point, northern Camp Hill, Buttston, Dudleyville and part of Eagle Creek. She can be reached at 8254207. Her address is 585 Brookwood Circle, Dadeville.

McKelvey

Emma Jean Thweatt

George Carleton Jr. represents District 5, which includes southern Camp Hill, Red Ridge, Walnut Hill, Union and Pleasant Ridge. His address is 630 Turner Road Road, Dadeville.

George Carleton Jr.

The

She made my brown eyes blue

Our View

Shelby stands tall

Outlook

T

here are some things you just don’t want your significant other to know. I’ve known mine almost four and a half years. I consider myself an open book; however, there are some things I’d hoped would remain buried for eternity. I’d buried it myself.

It hadn’t crossed my mind in decades.

That all changed recently on a trip to mama’s house.

When I was a kid, I loved Kiss. They were so cool.

They had the awesome face paint and stage outfits, along with elaborate live performances, featuring fire breathing, blood-spitting, smoking guitars, shooting rockets, levitating drum kits, and pyrotechnics. Like I said, they were cool.

They also had the infamous tongue. One year for Halloween, I dressed up as Gene Simmons. They made me want to “Rock and Roll all Night.” I was only 6 years old but still. I had several of their albums and often tried to draw them.

I was mesmerized by all things Kiss.

That all changed one night. I had a dream. I had an awful dream. I was never able to recall any details of the dream, but I woke up in tears, ripping my Kiss posters off the wall. I hated them. I didn’t listen to them again until 1995 when they appeared on MTV’s Unplugged series. They were awesome!

Had mama told about my Kiss infatuation, I’d be writing on a different

Jody Fuller Columnist subject this week.

Instead, after seeing a performance of an unknown country singer on TV, she casually mentioned my adoration of the one and only Crystal Gayle.

Time stood still. I acted as if I heard nothing.

Tumbleweeds rolled across the living room. The crickets were even quiet.

Then, without moving my head, I glanced over at Lucy, hoping and praying that her wandering mind had taken her to a land far, far way and she had missed this nugget of information.

Could I be so lucky? Of course not. She was all over it. It started as a slow laugh with a dash of confusion that turned into a long, loud, belly-aching laugh with a splash of tears.

In hindsight, I’m surprised Lucy wasn’t impressed. She’s a huge fan of Crystal’s older sister, Loretta Lynn. She even named her 1978 Ford truck “Loretta.” Here’s an interesting fact. The younger sister’s birthname is Brenda but was given her stage name by Loretta after she passed a Krystal hamburger joint. What if she’d passed a Wendy’s or a Jack’s?

Lucy has always loved the Beatles, even as a child. My family tried to

talk about how many were against the Beatles when they first came to America due to their “long hair.”

“You know who else had long hair?” Lucy rhetorically asked. “Crystal Gayle.”

Comedy is all about timing. I had to give her credit. That was good.

Mama tried to soften the blow by saying that my brother really liked Boxcar Willie. It just wasn’t the same. Boxcar Willie was cool.

I had a thing for brunettes way back then. My dream girls were Lynda Carter, Jaclyn Smith, and Catherine Bach. Along with Crystal, they were my quartet of cuties. Other than her long, luxurious hair, I don’t think she stood out above all the rest. I never missed episodes of Wonder Woman, Charlie’s Angels or The Dukes of Hazzard. Crystal just happened to be a singer, and boy could she sing. I had one of her albums and used to look at the cover and listen to it often. Perhaps the music did give her a slight advantage. Music is powerful. She made my brown eyes blue.

As always, it could have been worse. Thankfully, I never dressed up as Crystal Gayle for Halloween.

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

McGregor still a political power in state

A

s the June primaries for our statewide races get closer, there is a lot of media attention and stories written about the power being wielded by special interests, PACs and big money. They focus on the large amount of cash and influence being bet on the horses for governor and the legislature.

The Business Council of Alabama and ALFA are getting prepared to protect their friends and allies and punish their enemies. These two powerful and moneyladen special interests will be players in the 2018 horse races. Surprisingly, these two pro-business organizations are not riding the same horses in a good many races, especially statewide.

Quietly behind the scenes is another power in Alabama politics, Milton McGregor. You can bet he is playing ball. McGregor’s influence is felt in decisionmaking races in the state from governor to every legislative race. McGregor is the E.F. Hutton of Alabama politics. When he speaks people listen.

More importantly, when he speaks politicians listen.

He also transcends party.

He supports people who are his friends regardless of political party.

He epitomizes the golden rule of politics. He is loyal to his friends. In a day when some people’s word is no good, McGregor’s is solid as a rock. In politics and business your word is your bond, and that is why McGregor is revered and respected by the majority of Alabama’s political folks.

If McGregor tells someone he is their friend and will support them, they know they can take it to the bank. There is a political maxim used by longtime political veterans who have

STEVE FLOWERS Columnist been in the Legislature for years and have fought major battles over controversial issues – the type of battles where you have to get a good toehold and stakeout your position and stay put. Thus, the saying is analogous to being in a monumental battle where you get into a foxhole to survive.

Therefore, if a politician says about another that he is someone I would want in my foxhole in a war they are talking about someone they would trust with their life. That saying has been used to describe McGregor on more than one occasion.

Most people assume that Milton McGregor’s only interest is gaming.

However, he is invested in the nursing home industry, the real estate business and farming. He has been successful in each of these endeavors.

McGregor grew up in the Wiregrass. His family was very politically connected, so he got his love for politics honestly. McGregor idolized his older brother, Tom, who was a political icon in the Wiregrass.

Tom McGregor was instrumental in electing the legendary George Andrews to Congress. In fact, Tom McGregor got Andrews elected to Congress while he was still overseas in the Navy. Andrews was elected to Congress in the 1940s, served in Congress more than 20 years, became a power and is the reason Fort Rucker is located in Ozark/Enterprise. The elder McGregor was Andrews’ right-hand man for more than 20 years.

Milton McGregor loves politics, but he loves his wife of over 50 years, Pat, more than life. He is considered one of the most loyal family men in the state. Unlike many of his so-called religious and pious detractors, there has never been a hint of personal scandal around Milton McGregor.

His generosity is unlimited. There are stories about his allowing politicians to ride in his luxury airplanes, and they have. The truth is he is doing it more out of friendship rather than for personal gain or favoritism.

There are 10 times more occasions where he has given free use of his planes with his pilots to shuttle an indigent cancer patient to a hospital to save their life.

Milton reached the point financially, long ago, where he does not need any more money. He plays politics for the love of it.

He has given more than $300 million to charities over the years. That is $300 million more than the Indian casinos have given Alabamians.

My mama always said that you can tell who a real gentleman is by the way he treats the person less fortunate. Milton McGregor epitomizes this quality. He treats the lowest janitor in his racetracks with the same sincerity, warmness and dignity that he does the wealthiest people in America, whom he rubs shoulders with every day.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers.

He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

Today’s

Quote

“No one can figure out your worth but you.”

– Pearl Bailey

Today’s

Scripture

“O Lord, you are my God. I will exalt you and praise your name for in perfect faithfulness you have done marvelous things. things planned long ago” – Isaiah 25:1

alexcityoutlook.com

Daily Poll Tuesday Question: Do you think the government should change student loan interest to be charged the moment the loan is taken, rather than upon graduation?

Yes – 11 No – 23

Wednesday’s question: Are you happy with Kevin Smith being selected as the new football coach at Benjamin Russell?

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

Our

Mission

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

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 e-mail david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook. com.

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Wednesday, March 7, 2018

The Outlook

CommunityCalendar Need Insurance?

Call me.

Today is March 7, 2018 Today’s Events

Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have their Monthly Luncheon on Wednesday, March 7 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Please bring a covered dish and a small donation.

Page 5

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Submit calendar items:

Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/.

Today’s Birthdays

Wally Jacobs, Jeff Walker, Velma Moss, Lagori McCain, Michael Hampton, Melinda Nicholson and Jerilyn Smith are celebrating their birthdays today.

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Cliff Williams / The Outlook

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. ans-welcome-home-cermony.html.

Jeffcoat by calling 256-234-4757 or Thursday, March 8 Attendees are asked to RSVP in emailing at staceyj1229@gmail.com.

ANNUAL MEETING: The Lake advance by either emailing Blake Martin Area United Way is holding Busbin at wbbusbin@auburnschools.

Saturday, March 17 its annual meeting and 2018 Team org or by calling Auburn High School PANCAKE BREAKFAST: Comer United Campaign Celebration March at 334-887-2120.

Methodist Men’s Club is hosting a 8 at Valley National Bank, formerly LORD’S SUPPER: Red Ridge pancake breakfast Saturday, March USAmeriBank. Wine and hors d’oeu17 from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. It is eat in or United Methodist church will present vres will be served starting at 5:30 a re-creation of the Living Lord’s carry-out and is $6 a plate. p.m. with an awards presentation at Supper inspired by Leonardo daVinFISHING TOURNAMENT: The 6 p.m. ci’s world famous painting of the Last Benjamin Russell High School Supper with 13 living characters.

Cheerleaders fishing tournament will Saturday, March 10 Rev. Ernest K. Emurian, a Methodist be March 17 at Wind Creek.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST: The minister from Virginia, wrote the soliloEASTER EGG HUNT: Mt. Zion Alexander City Kiwanis Club is hostquies for the Twelve Apostles as they Church on Highway 63 South will be ing a pancake and Conecuh sausage might have expressed themselves hosting an Easter egg hunt Saturday, breakfast March 10 from 6 to 10 a.m. immediately after hearing the Lord March 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and at the Benjamin Russell High School Jesus say “One of you will betray me” will begin with a lunch and an Easter cafeteria. Tickets are $6 and include where each man cried out “Lord is it presentation.

There will be a prize egg all you can eat. Carry out is also availI?” This was the moment daVinci said for toddlers, grade school and middle able. he wished to capture in the painting. school.

FLEA MARKET: The Town of Mr. Harlan Burton of Union will be TRADE DAY: Bibb Graves High Camp Hill Flea Market will start back the guest pianist and sololist. Holy School Alumni and Friends Monthly up March 10 and continue on the seccommunion will be offered at the conTrade Day in Millerville on Highway ond Saturday of each month through clusion. Red Ridge is located at 8091 9 between Ashland and Goodwater Nov. 10. The hours of operation are County Road 34, Dadeville, 256-825will be held on March 17 from 7 a.m.

30 minutes after day break until 2 9820, redridgeumc.org. until 2 p.m.

Refreshments are also p.m. Spaces are for rent for $10 and available. are 20 feet by 20 feet. For more Saturday, March 31 information contact James Woody at FULL MOON HIKE: Wind Creek Thursday, March 22 256-749-8270.

State Park is hosting a full moon hike KIWANIS STEAK DINNER: The SINGING: Family Worship Center Saturday, March 31 at 7 p.m. The hike Alexander City Kiwanis Club is hostat 1676 Sewell Street will be hosting will begin at dark in the north picnic ing its annual Auction and Steak “Singing with the Walkers” Saturday, pavilion. There is a fee for non-campDinner March 22 from 6 p.m. to 10 March 10 at 6 p.m. The pastor of ers. p.m. at the Russell Medical Event Family Worship Center is Tony Harris.

NIGHT OF PRAISE AND Venue. Tickets are $50 and include WORSHIP: Centerview Baptist drinks, dinner, live music, a silent and Tuesday, March 13 Church on County Road 89 in Camp live auction.

GREATER TUNA: Alexander Hill is hosting a Night of Praise and SENIORX: Deborah Jones City Arts is hosting “Greater Tuna,” Worship featuring all male choirs and SeniorRx Coordinator will be available Tuesday, March 13 at 7 p.m. at the groups. For more information call 256March 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

BRHS Auditorium. It is a hilarious 896-2974. at the Alexander City Chamber of comedy about Texas’ third smallest Commerce to help seniors see if they town where the Lion’s Club is too libare eligible for assistance with diabetic April 6-8 eral and Patsy Cline never dies. supplies, liquid supplements and medGREASE: The Dadeville High ications.

School Theater program is producing Wednesday, March 14 For more information Jones can be “Grease” April 6 at 7 p.m., April 7 at THE CASE FOR MIRACLES: contacted at 1-800-361-1636 or 2567 p.m. and April 8 at 3 p.m. at the River of Life Church will be a host site 761-3575. This is sponsored by the Dadeville High School auditorium. for the global simulcast of “The Case Area Agency on Aging. for Miracles,” Wednesday, March 14 April 7 at 7 p.m. The church will be serving a Now-March 23 BIANNUAL MEETING: Holly meal from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The Springs Baptist Church Cemetery PRE K REGISTRATION: church is located at 1715 Tallapoosa Association of Coosa County will have Alabama’s Voluntary Pre-K Program Street (Highway 22) in Alexander City their bi-annual meeting at 10 a.m. is taking pre-registration. Forms can about a half mile past Buck’s restauat the church. All members please be found at https://alprek.asapconrant. attend. nected.com.

QUAIL FRY: The Lake Martin Area Acceptance is through a random Thursday, March 15 United Way is hosting its 3rd Annual drawing to be held April 15 at 10 a.m.

DEMOCRATIC PARTY Quail Fry April 7 at the The Stables at the V. Robinson Head Start Center.

MEETING: The Tallapoosa County at Russell Crossroads. The event Democratic Party will be hosting 3rd includes fried quail, sides, a shrimp Saturday, March 24 Congressional District Candidates boil and shrimp gumbo. There will EASTER EGG HUNT: Wind Creek Mallory Hagan and Dr. Asia McClellan be a bake goods sale, auction and State Park is hosting an Easter egg Winfrey Thursday, March 15 at 6 p.m. music. hunt Saturday, March 24 at 10 a.m. at the Bud Porch Center in Alexander Tickets are $30 a person or $35 at Most eggs will have small prizes and City. the door. Doors open 5 p.m. and food prize eggs will be hidden for each age The Tallapoosa County Democratic will be served at 6 p.m. Tickets are division. The age divisions are 0-2 Party meets every third Thursday. For available at the United Way office or years old, 2-4 years old, 5-8 years more information please call Interim in Dadeville at Valley National Bank, old and 9-12 years old.

The event will County Party Chair Carol Gowan at formerly USAmeriBank. take place in the north picnic area 256-794-7432.

Call 256-329-3600 for more inforacross from the beach. There is a mation. park entry fee for non-campers.

March 14-16 ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE CHURCH REVIVAL: GAP OF HORSESHOE BEND: Horseshoe April 9-10 Fellowship Church at 721 Robinson Bend National Military Park is hosting THROW AWAY DAYS: The Middle Road is hosting spring revival services the 204th anniversary of the Battle of Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership March 14-16 at 7 p.m. nightly. Pastor the Horseshoe Saturday, March 24. and the Tallapoosa County Betty Hoyett will speak Wednesday, There will be demonstrations of Indian Commission are holding Throw Away Evangelist Shamika Thomas and frontier life in the year 1814.

Days April 9-10. Dumpsters will be Thursday evening and Evangelist The program is free to the public. located at the Alex City Annex at Joanne Shealey on Friday. Lou and 395 Lee Street, Double Bridges on Marilyn Benson are pastor of GAP Highway 63, the Old Daviston School Wednesday, March 29 Fellowship Church.

VIETNAM VETERANS WELCOME on Highway 22, the Camp Hill Town Hall at 309 Holley Ave. and the Union HOME: The Auburn Veterans Project March 16-17 Community Center at 4191 Highway is celebrating and reflecting on the SPORTING CLAY SHOOT: The service and sacrifice of Vietnam veter- 50. Dumpsters will be available at no 12th annual Ronald Koon Sporting charge to residents. ans March 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Clay Classic benefiting the Boys and Auburn High School auditorium.

Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area will Speakers will be Joe Galloway Thursday, April 12 be held March 16 and 17. Friday night and Medal of Honor recipients Bennie AIN’T MISBEHAVIN: Alexander there will be a Calcutta and steak dinAdkins and James Livingston. Family City Arts is hosting “Ain’t Misbehavin,” ner at the Alexander City Elks Lodge is welcome to accompany their veterThursday, April 12 at 7 p.m. at the and the shoot will be Saturday at the an and there will be a light reception BRHS Auditorium. It is a tribute to Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Sports afterwards.

African American musicians of the Club.

Visit auburnveteransproect.weebly.

1920s and ‘30s who were part of the If you would like to participate or com/east-alabama-vietnam-veterHarlem Renaissance. sponsor a sign please contact Stacey

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Page 6

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Court

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

The Outlook

continued from page 1

In addition to a plea, attorney Mitchell Gavin has filed a motion seeking funding for an investigator for the defense to prepare for trial. • O’Hennessey Diomonta Wright, now 19, of Alexander City is accused killing 28-year-old LaBrandon Lamar Herron of Kellyton during an incident in the Spring Hill community.

Reports indicate that Herron was shot multiple times in the early morning hours of Oct. 30, 2016 and died from his injuries. A second victim was also shot and Wright is also charged with attempted murder. That victim, whose name was not released, did not suffer life-threatening injuries and was treated and released.

Wright has undergone mental evaluation and in addition to entering a plea Wednesday, there is a motion from his attorney Michelle Perez asking for Wright to be given youthful offender status. • Dadeville residents Edward Rashun Thomas, 20, and 20-year-old Bobby Lee Ponds Jr., were arrested Jan. 20, 2017 and charged with capital murder for their alleged involvement in the shooting death of 27-year-old LaDarrell Lamar Hart in his Third Street home on Jan. 18, 2017. A preliminary

hearing painted Thomas as the triggerman and Ponds as helping in the aftermath of the crime.

Both men have been indicted and denied youthful offender status. Both men are due to appear before Perryman Wednesday to enter pleas in the cases against them. • Anthony Davon Parker is accused of reckless murder and shooting into an occupied vehicle in a March 28, 2017 incident that claimed the life of 18-year-old Quentavious Arrion Reese. It is alleged that Parker was at the home of Jeffery Bruno off Robinson Road near Alexander City and was shooting a .45 caliber handgun. Testimony at a preliminary hearing indicated that Parker had been target shooting and Reese had been at the home, before leaving in a vehicle with a group of friends.

Parker allegedly shot towards the same vehicle as it came back down the road, a shot that struck Reese and eventually caused his death. Parker is out on bond and his motion for youthful offender status was denied. While Parker’s plea hearing is on the docket for Wednesday, his attorney has a conflict and has asked that Parker’s earlier not guilty plea remain in place.

ARMSTRONG-HOLLEY

PLUMBING

A REFUGE FOR THE HOMELESS

ADOPTION IS THE BEST OPTION.

Santana Wood / The Outlook

James Bailey, Mandy and Austin Milford, Tammie, Sammy and Brandi Meadows, Tommy Futural, Rep. Mark Tuggle, Ken Cowart, Terry Martin, Jimmy Strickland and Heidi Richards pose for a photo after the Coosa Valley Resource Conservation and Development Council presented a $3,500 grant to the Alexander City Rescue Squad for a new underwater communication system Monday night.

Grant

continued from page 1

meeting room of the Alexander City Rescue Squad building to demonstrate to the crowd how little the dive team can see while under water, and expressed what an impact this communication system is going to make. “You can’t see your hand in front of your face,� Cowart said. “This is going to mean more safety for us, our divers and people (boat operators) up top.�

Cowart explained that simple communication between the divers under water and the boat operator above water adds a layer of safety, as well as convenience as teams are searching under water. The boat operator can instruct the diver to go a certain way and guide them in ways that can’t be done without this system. “I hope we don’t need it,� Cowart said, “but we have practiced several times, and it’s ideal. You can hear everything crystal clear.�

Cowart said the grant provided regulators for four divers. He showed the masks, demonstrated how to hook up the wires, and explained

how the surface unit allows rescue squad members to communicate back and forth through either a speaker or a headset. He said the system has four different channels to communicate through, which will be useful when other rescue squads are on scene.

Several officials were on hand to present the check at the rescue squad’s meeting Monday night, including Coosa Valley RC&D Executive Director Heidi Richards, State Representative Mark Tuggle, RC&D council and board member Tommy Futral of the Soil and Water Conservation District, and RC&D council member Terry Martin.

Before presenting the squad with the check, Richards explained a bit about what the RC&D council does, including being dedicated to protecting, enhancing and developing natural and human resources. “(Our mission) is very broad,�

Richards said, “and I am very appreciative for that because that lets us think and do things out of the box.�

Rep. Tuggle expressed his appreciation of the rescue squad, applauded members for the exceptional work they do and praised their skillset. “Thank you guys for what you do,� Tuggle said.

Tuggle also discussed a grant the legislature is currently working on to reimburse the tuition of those who get credentials to be volunteer firefighters, rescue squad members, etc. “We’re trying to find new ways to encourage young folks to get involved,� Tuggle said. “We haven’t figured that out exactly yet, but we’re hoping a tuition reimbursement on some credentials might help.�

Tuggle also said he is willing to help those in his district with anything that may be important to them. “If you’ve got a request in for a grant, you need to let Senator (Tom) Whatley and I know,� Tuggle said. “We will write letters of support, make phone calls and do whatever is required to help expedite that application process.�

Schools

continued from page 1

or suspicious activity with no blow back, as well as making students’ voices heard without feeling scared to talk to administration and building stronger teacher/student relationships. “This was very informative,� board member Martin Johnson said. “Great job.� “You had a well-poised presentation,� board member Betty Carol Graham added.

Superintendent Joe Windle said the central office had been looking at potentially purchasing some of these devices, while also commending White on her research and presentation. “We will discuss more on these ideas during our next work session,�

Windle said.

Several students from Horseshoe Bend were recognized for their participation and achievements during the recent Science Olympics Regional Tournament in Tuscaloosa at the University of Alabama. During the competition, groups from Horseshoe Bend competed in 15 events, placing in the top three in four of them, beating out schools like Prattville, Hewitt-Trussville, Clay-Chalkville and LAMP in the process. Alexia Kuenzel and Amber Gomez placed first in Herpetology, Nathan Wilson and Mackenzie Boone took second in Game On (participants had to program a game within a one-hour

time period), Bailey Skinner, Corbin Shivers and Caleb Story claimed third in Towers (using only balsa wood, the trio constructed a tower that was able to hold 23 pounds), and Savannah Brazzell and Maggie Wood finished third in Fermi Questions (for this exercise, participants had to calculate how many pizzas could fit in the state of Alabama). “Our kids are more than just a test score,� Windle said.

Following this recognition, the board was asked for a motion to make the special recognition part of the official minutes of the board meeting. “I proudly make this motion,�

Graham said.

The board also entered executive session twice during the meeting.

During the shorter session, the board discussed pending litigation, while holding an expulsion hearing for a Dadeville High School student during the longer executive session.

After returning from executive session, the board approved a recommendation from Windle that the student be expelled for a period of six months, and following that time, must apply to the board for admission into the Tallapoosa County Virtual Academy.

The following items were also brought up during the meeting: • Minutes from the Feb. 12 meeting were approved.

• A motion to pay the system’s February bills was passed. • The monthly financial report for February was approved. • The board approved a request from county officials to allow the use of the auditorium at the Edward Bell Career Tech Center as a polling place for local, state and national elections beginning with the June 5 primary. • The board approved several field trip requests, including four varsity softball tournaments for the Reeltown High School softball team, a number of meets for the Dadeville High School track team, a cheer camp at Camp ASCCA for the Dadeville High School cheerleaders, the Dadeville High School Key Club to attend the district Key Club Convention in Montgomery and history students in seventh, eighth and ninth grades at Dadeville High School to take a special trip to Washington, D.C. in early May. • Windle and the board reviewed the most recent foundation money payment from the state government, the annual total of which makes up approximately 64 percent of the system’s budget The next meeting of the Tallapoosa County Board of Education will be Monday, April 9 at 5 p.m. in the board room of the Tallapoosa County Board of Education building.

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This ad is sponsored by Wayside Animal Hospital, Dr. Susan Martin, 256-329-9900. Spay/neuter assistance is available from RESCUE K9-1-1, Wayside Animal Hospital 256-329-9900 or Lake Martin Humane Society 256-234-5533.

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Wednesday, March 7, 2018

The Outlook

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The Outlook

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

The Outlook

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River Bank employees help teach teens ‘Money Matters’ STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

River Bank’s Senior Vice President/ Relationship Manager Abby Guy and Office manager Jessica Locke welcomed the teens from the Richard A. “Buck�

Shaw Teen Center for an afternoon on banking management on Friday, March 2 to help them with a new program at the teen center called Money Matters.

Guy and Locke spent Friday afternoon teaching the teens how to write checks, fill out a bank register, how to deposit and withdraw funds and the difference between a credit card and debit card. “The teens got a new understanding of what it means to keep track of their own money,� Guy said.

The information the teens gained from their bank tour will help them

Theft

in the upcoming Money Matters activities, said Crystal Freeman with the Boys & Girls Club.

The teenagers will experience the Money Matters course of six to eight weeks. This course is designed to teach them how to grocery shop, budget for a home, and/ or a car for their future.

The goal for this program is for each teenager to develop a business plan and blueprint for their future financial lifestyle. “The teens from the Richard A. “Buck� Shaw teen Center would like to thank Abby and Jessica for their time and a fun afternoon at the bank,�

Freeman said. “We look forward to working with them again real soon.�

For more information on the Teen Center you may call (256)234-4757 or come by our office at 1009 Cherokee Rd.

Submitted / The Outlook

River Bank’s Senior Vice President/Relationship Manager Abby Guy and Office manager Jessica Locke pose with teens from the Richard A. “Buck� Shaw Teen Center after Friday’s Money matters class.

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continued from page 1

several transactions removing funds from the victim’s accounts. The funds were moved to Walmart Green Dot Cards in names of people Wyckoff works with. The missing funds were discovered when the nursing home the victim was trying to get into called saying Medicaid would not accept her. With the victim’s permission, the new sitter sifted through the victim’s finances and discovered Wyckoff had apparently taken funds from September through February.

According to the report Wyckoff admitted to the sitter that she had taken the funds and would pay them back and that Wyckoff also paid a bill from Charter Spectrum.

As of 3 p.m. Tuesday, Wyckoff was being held in the Tallapoosa County Jail on a $10,000 bond.

Turner cautioned the community about watching finances when someone comes into the home. “A family member or somebody needs to watch for things like this,� Turner said. “It is sad that someone would take advantage of others, especially the elderly.�

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Sports

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

Page 10

Outlook

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

The

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SMITH LANDS THE JOB Kevin Smith named head coach of BRHS football

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

From intern to positions coach to coordinator, Kevin Smith has now officially made it to the top of the Benjamin Russell football tower. Smith was named the head coach of the program Tuesday morning at a meeting of the Alexander City School Board of Education.

But instead of being overjoyed at the thought of becoming in charge of a program he’s grown to love over 22 years of service, Smith was thinking about only one thing — football.

“It’s time to go to work,” Smith said. “It hasn’t really hit me. All I can think about right now is we’re maxing out today and I gotta get back over to the weight room. I’m really ready to go. This feels great, though, because I’m still at Ben Russell.”

Smith has become a staple of the Wildcat coaching staff since he became an intern in 1995.

Growing up in Vidalia, Georgia, Smith graduated from Cullman before attending Auburn University and being selected to do an internship in Alexander City.

“If there ever was an example of a plan being laid out, this was it,” Smith said.

“I was assigned to Alex City, and I knew I wanted to get into coaching. After I got my assignment, the next person I called was coach (Steve Savarese). I bugged him to death, and from there, he hired me.”

Smith was hired to the ninthgrade staff in 1996 as a wide receivers and defensive backs coach and joined the Benjamin

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Superintendent Dr. Darrell Cooper, right, shakes hands with Kevin Smith as he introduces him as head coach of the Benjamin Russell football team.

Russell staff in 1997 under Phil Lazenby, who moved Smith to inside linebackers coach. From 1997 to 2001, the Wildcats made it to the Class 6A finals three times and won once in 2001 when Willie Carl Martin was head coach.

“People would tell me I’m spoiled rotten,” Smith said.

LUKE ROBINSON Columnist

Hoops finals brings excitement to Birmingham

I

write the following knowing full well I will be accused of hyperbole.

No need to point that out. But I promise, this is the truth: It is impossibly difficult to explain how incredibly awesome last week was. A week of excitement, intrigue, jubilation, heartbreak, celebration, disappointment, hysteria and expertly controlled mass chaos all rolled into six long (but somehow speedy) days.

Or, as the White House calls it, “a pretty typical week.”

I am talking, of course, about the AHSAA basketball championships at the Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center.

As a member of the AHSAA Radio Network, I have had the privilege of calling this event for the last decade.

Every year it is a sight to behold. Every year there is something new, something completely unpredictable, something incredible.

But this year was even more so.

Frankly, I have never seen a series of games so hotly contested or a collection of players so willing to give every ounce of energy they had to win — and I have seen “Hoosiers,” “Blue Chips” and “Space Jam.” Let me put it another way: I am going to guess in my lifetime of playing, watching and broadcasting basketball, I believe I witnessed the best game I have ever seen in my life last Friday at Legacy Arena.

See ROBINSON • Page 11

“There are people that go their entire careers without seeing the finals, and I got it three times out of my first five years.

That was a great learning experience.”

Smith moved into the defensive coordinator position when current Wildcat baseball See SMITH • Page 11

“It’s time to go to work. It hasn’t really hit me. All I can think about right now is we’re maxing out today and I gotta get back over to the weight room. I’m really ready to go.”

— Kevin Smith Benjamin Russell’s new football coach

Early lead propels Wildcats to win

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

Scoring six runs in the first three innings was the recipe to success for Benjamin Russell’s softball team in a 6-1 victory over Valley on Monday night.

The Wildcats opened the game with two runs in the top of the first and added two more in the second.

BRHS immediately started strong with a leadoff single

by Asia McWaters to begin the game. After a strikeout, Taylor Harris drew a walk, and McWaters scored on a groundout. But the Wildcats (10-3) weren’t done there, as Harris scored on a wild pitch to go up 2-0 after one inning.

Benjamin Russell kept its momentum going in the second inning. Taylor McVey led off with a walk and was joined on the bases by Baylee Adkins, who reached second on an error. Tayla Stowes then laid down a single, giving courtesy runner Haylee Hunter and Adkins time to score.

An Adkins RBI single scored an insurance run for the Wildcats in the top of the third.

McWaters had another fantastic outing, throwing the complete game. She scattered four hits and allowed only one run; she struck out seven and didn’t walk any.

Errors galore cost Horseshoe Bend victory

Horseshoe Bend hit the ball extremely well in Monday night’s game against LAMP. But 17 hits combined weren’t enough for the Generals, as they committed a staggering 16 errors in a 23-10 loss. Only one of LAMP’s 23 runs was

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Dadeville’s Isis Johnson smacked a grand slam in Monday night’s narrow loss to Montgomery Catholic.

earned.

The Generals (3-8) did get three hits apiece from Cheyanna Howard, Hannah Adcock and Caly Carlisle as well as a single and a double each by Sydnie Catrett and Leighann McWhorter. Ivy Vickers had two singles and drove in two runs. Abby Cheatam also drove in two runs on a double.

In the circle, Danielle Mitchell allowed 13 hits but only one earned run. She struck out one and walked six.

Dadeville suffers near-miss vs.

Montgomery Catholic

An early lead carried Montgomery Catholic to victory over Dadeville, 11-9,

on Monday night. The Knights went up 6-1 after two innings and 10-1 midway through the fifth, but an Isis Johnson grand slam and a big inning of the Tigers (4-4) in the bottom of the fifth made it a close game.

With two outs and a runner on third, Dadeville made a twoout rally in the fifth. Brittany Claybrook smacked a single to See SOFTBALL • Page 11

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

The Outlook

Page 11

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Football banquet honors season, Danny Horn

By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor

Emotions were flying on Saturday night at the Betty Carol Graham Technology Center, as Benjamin Russell hosted its annual football banquet. Not only was it the end of another season, but Saturday’s banquet also marked the official end of coach Danny Horn’s duties at BRHS. “For you players, I love you and I’m going to miss you,” Horn said during his opening remarks.

“That’s the hardest part is leaving players behind. Coaches come and coaches go, and players come and players go, but you’ll always have a special place in my heart here.”

Saturday’s event began with a meal and highlight show from the season before multiple awards were presented.

Benjamin Russell athletic director Pam Robinson handed out the scholar athlete awards to Jackson Knight and Ann Marie Waldrop. The award is given to the male and female with the highest numerical average of just core courses. Following that, the cheerleaders, dance team, trainers and ninth-grade football team were honored before Horn took the stage.

“As a coach, a lot of times, people look at the wins and the losses, but that’s not really what I would consider the character of a job that a coach does,” Horn said. “A coach’s job is to get them prepared for life, and hopefully some of the things that we did over time will get the players ready for that journey.”

Horn also recognized his coaches, who presented individual football awards with him.

“As a head coach, you’re only as good as your assistant coaches, and I’ve been blessed since I’ve been here to have some great assistant coaches,” Horn said.

“You just don’t understand how

Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook

Above: At Saturday’s Benjamin Russell football banquet, Quarterback Club President Bill Hendrix, far left, shakes hands with Benjamin Russell coach Danny Horn as captains, from left, Davede Herron, Jaden Tuck, Benjamin Hendrix and Tyler Watts present Horn with a plaque. Below: Jackson Knight, left, receives the scholarly athlete award from Benjamin Russell athletic director Pam Robinson.

much time during the season that we spend. We’ll spend easily 80 hours a week during the season, and you kinda lose track a lot of times. You lose focus on your family, but that’s just how it is being a coach.”

After Horn’s remarks, every football player was recognized and individual awards were given.

The following players received individual awards: • Cam Buckner: Best Defensive Lineman • Benjamin Hendrix: Best Inside Linebacker, Maroon Heat Award (most assisted tackles) • Jaden Tuck: Best Outside Linebacker, Most Defensive Points, Head Hunter Award (most total tackles) • Kobi Crabb: Best Defensive Back • Jackson Knight: Best Offensive Lineman • Davede Herron: Best

Offensive Back • Nick McGhee: Best Wide Receiver • Dylan Moncus: Special Teams Award • Isaiah Holloway: Practice Award • Tim Waldrop: 100 Percent Award Benjamin Russell’s captains, who are voted on by the team at the beginning of the year, were also recognized. Herron, Hendrix, Tuck and Tyler Watts served as the captains this season, and the quartet along with Quaterback Club President Bill Hendrix also gave a plaque to Horn for his services.

The banquet concluded as Horn’s emotions got the best of him.

“I hope in some way,” Horn fought through tears to tell his team, “I’ve left something positive with you.”

Smith

continued from page 10

coach Richy Brooks stepped down to focus solely on baseball. Smith was the DC from 2004 to 2008, and when former coach Danny Horn came in 2009 and brought defensive coordinator Steve Burkhalter with him, Smith was moved immediately to offensive coordinator.

“I think he’s a really good fit because he’s done both sides of the ball,” Brooks said. “He’s very familiar with this school and the people here. He knows Benjamin Russell and knows what they need in order to be successful. (The players) see how hard he works at it and how much he cares about it. If he’s aware of anything, it’s that there’s a deep-rooted tradition at Benjamin Russell, and I think he’ll be the best choice to bring that back into the program and take advantage of that.”

Alexander City Parks and Recreation Director Sonny Wilson said, “He’s worked for some great coaches, and over the 22-year span, he should’ve learned something from every one of them. That plus the love he has for the community, I’ve seen him around the kids, and he really cares for the kids.

He deserves this opportunity, and there’s nobody that could come in that would love Benjamin Russell like Kevin Smith does.”

Alexander City Superintendent Dr. Darrell Cooper made the final recommendation to the school board after a month-long hiring process. A hiring committee consisting of BRHS Principal Dr. Anthony Wilkinson, BRHS athletic director Pam Robinson, BRHS assistant principal Tracy McGhee, Alexander City City Councilman Scott Hardy and Quarterback Club President Bill Hendrix narrowed the process down from nearly 90 applicants to 12 interviewees to three finalists. Smith’s coaching will amount to $21,959, according

File / The Outlook

Benjamin Russell will usher in a new football coach this season as offensive coordinator Kevin Smith is taking over the head coaching duties after the departure of Danny Horn.

to Cooper.

“Kevin stood out in that callback interview (of finalists),” Wilkinson said.

“I’ve worked with him for four years, and he’s done everything we asked of him. He’s taken over. When coach Horn left, he took over the weight room without having any type of title, and he’s done a wonderful job.”

Robinson added, “I’ve worked with Kevin for 22 years, and he’s very excited about the opportunity. He’s worked very hard and he’s worked with a couple of our booster clubs and done a great job with that.

I’m excited about some of the visions he has for the football program and our kids and our community.”

While being familiar with the community and the kids was a factor in Smith’s hiring, it wasn’t the only reason he was chosen.

“He’s got a lot of football knowledge and a lot of ideas about how to lead the program,” Cooper said. “Even though he’s been under coach Horn for the last nine years, he’s got a lot of new ideas to even carry the program further. It was very much a contributing factor that he’s been here and knows the community, but it’s not just that. He’s very well-known and very wellrespected in coaching community, and he’s got a lot of fresh ideas about what he’d like to do here as well.”

It definitely seems he has the support of the players. Through all the messages and comments The Outlook has received, all have been positive and supportive of the board’s decision to hire Smith.

“I’ve been praying he got the job,” Wildcat sophomore wide receiver Za Stowes said. “He’s been here for a while, and I kinda wanted someone in the school to get the job. Him and coach Horn are not like, so there will be some differences, but I like coach Smith. He’s got the experience. He’s been here for a while, and he was here in ’01 when we won the state championship, so I feel like he’ll get us where we need to be.”

And if nothing else, Smith is Wildcat through and through.

“Because I went through that early phase, I’m a fan of Benjamin Russell,” Smith said.

“I don’t know if that shows through, but it’s not just a job. I’m a Benjamin Russell fan and I’m not from here. I’m an outside and I’m really, truly a fan of Benjamin Russell.”

Softball

continued from page 10

score Zoe Veres, and Claybrook was joined on the bases by Makya Johnson, who notched a single. Jailee Kirkland reached on an error to load the bases, and a walk by Tiffany Walk cut Montgomery Catholic’s deficit to 10-4. Then Isis Johnson took the plate and smacked one over the centerfield fence, sending four runs around to home plate.

Dadeville scored once more in the bottom of the seventh on a sacrifice fly by Pearl Huff, but it was too little, too late for the Tigers.

Reeltown in a 5-0 victory over Beulah. She was backed up Kenzie Hornsby who came on in relief for the final out. The two combined to allow just two hits in the shutout. They struck out seven and walked two.

Reeltown (9-4-1) scored all five of its runs in the first three innings. Kayli Hornsby led the way by going 3-for-4, including a double, and drove in two runs.

Makenzie Baker had two hits, and Katyln Jaye and Kyndel Lee each had RBI singles.

The Rebels have now won four of their last five.

Stoneback, Hornsby combine for two-hitter

BASEBALL Horseshoe Bend wins Randolph Co. tourney

Ariyana Stoneback had another strong outing for

After winning only seven

games a season ago, Horseshoe bend’s baseball team is off to a fantastic start, having earned the championship at the Randolph County Tournament last week.

En route to the victory, the Generals defeated Ranburne, 8-5; Wadley, 16-4; and Donoho, 15-4. Cade Worthy, Chandler Lewis and Grant Taylor all picked up wins on the mound.

“We’re playing really well right now,” HBS coach Jason Johnson said. “Offensively, we’re hitting better than we’ve hit the last two or three years.

We’re heading in the right direction. Still defense is really the only thing.

“We’re pitching really well right now. We got two complete games in the tournament, and

Cade was only two outs shy of a complete game. We’re still making a couple errors defensively, though, so if we can shore that up, I think we’ll be really good.”

Lewis, Taylor and Jace Rodriguez all had multiple hits in at least two games of the tournament.

Reeltown earns win over Jeff Davis

Hayden Solomon racked up four hits to lead Reeltown to a 9-6 victory over Jefferson Davis on Monday night. The Rebels also got two hits apiece from Ardarious Woods, Cody Thomas and Logan Hunt, who also got the win on the mound.

Robinson

continued from page 10

This column isn’t long enough to list all of the sensational sequences of this game. I can recap only the ending and hope one day, when an AHSAA Classics Channel is created, this will be the first basketball game shown.

With the 3A boys state title on the line, Plainview and HillcrestEvergreen left everything out on the court. Each player for each school played a crucial role at some point in the ball game. Then after a grueling overtime filled with indecisive momentum, Plainview’s Caden Millican buried a 3-pointer from the corner at the buzzer to give the Bears their first state championship.

Honestly, it was the only way that game could have possibly ended. One team rides a wave of euphoria to a human pile-up on the court while another was barely buoyed above the floor by their own blood, sweat and tears from the loss.

If that unbelievable game had not have happened, the year’s Finals still would have been the best I have ever called. There were over other overtime games that deserve their own moments in the championship sun for sure.

There were also oncein-a-generation teams and individual players. Mountain Brook happens to fall in both categories.

That squad guards you during timeouts and shoots 3-pointers with more accuracy than most teams’ dunks. The Spartans have a borg-like mentality on the court that literally drains the will out of their opponent. It’s both impressive and frightening to watch.

Leading MBHS is, of course, Trendon Watford. The alleverything superstar was the shoo-in MVP choice as he led Mountain Brook to the title. I will write more about him later as he is only a junior. (Ahem.

Good luck next year, the rest of 7A; you will need it).

So just another week filled with indelible memories at the BJCC. I hope you made it up there to see it.

Luke Robinson is a regular columnist and contributor to Lake Martin Living and BMetro.

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