THE SPORTS, PAGE 10 Rebels, Generals begin playoff journeys
THURSDAY LOCAL, PAGE 3 New Site’s annual trade day, car show coming up
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892
April 19, 2018 Vol. 126, No. 78 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢
Young victim testifies in sex abuse of child case
By MITCH SNEED Editor
An 11-year-old girl took the witness stand Wednesday and tried to remember details of three instances where her mother’s boyfriend at the time allegedly sexually abused her in 2014 when she was just 7 years old. Testimony from the alleged victim, her mother,
brother and the lead police investigator in the case highlighted the first day in the trial of 32-year-old Kenrell Withers. Withers is charged with sexual abuse of a child under the age of 12 and two counts of sodomy. Testimony before the jury and Judge Steven Perryman is expected to resume today at 9 a.m. The girl, who was wearing a white and multi-color striped dress with white tights and braids in her hair, struggled to remember details that she told forensic
interviewers four years ago, but said she could only recall “little pieces” she remembered from that tumultuous time in her life. In opening statements, Assistant District Attorney Kevin Hall laid out the case and allegations that Withers had sexual contact with the girl three times in early 2014. He said evidence would show one incident happened with Withers touching the girl while in a car, See TRIAL • Page 9
City school board talks search for new superintendent
Bench warrant issued for man charged with child sex crime
By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
Since Alexander City Schools Superintendent Dr. Darrell Cooper officially announced his resignation during the March meeting of the Alexander City Board of Education, the board spent part of Tuesday night’s meeting discussing how to move forward in a search for a new superintendent. “We used this service (a software service offered through the State Association of School Boards) five years ago in order to find Dr. Cooper,” board president David Sturdivant said. “We want to go ahead and get in their queue so we can work on this.” “I believe it was very thorough last time,” Kelly Waldrop added. “I recommend we follow the same procedure we did last time.” Cooper threw in his thoughts as well, suggesting the board conduct interviews no later than mid-September and reach See SUPERINTENDENT • Page 9
By MITCH SNEED Editor
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Tubby Hand pets Lillian, the mare who led animal control and others on a citywide chase last Wednesday. The horse is slowly calming down and getting used to be handled, but officials are still hopeful of finding the owner.
Roaming horse gets care, origin remains a mystery asking for the public’s help. Alexander City Police Department Capt. James Orr said that the horse remains unclaimed The search for the owner of a strong-willed, and is being looked after by local resident chestnut and black mare that eluded capture for Tubby Hand who helped Alexander City Animal more than four hours Wednesday, April 11 is still Control officers get her to safety. See HORSE • Page 3 active and law enforcement officials are now By MITCH SNEED Editor
STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
This weekend’s cleanup is the result of conversations and meetings that have developed through the Clean Community Partnership. Helping in Saturday’s effort is the Alexander City Police Department. “We are partnering with them,” ACPD Code Enforcement Officer See CLEANUP • Page 5
Submitted / The Outlook
CACC’s Learning Resource Center is showcasing “The Vickerian Collection,” which includes an exhibit that focuses on the historical record of the Holocaust, its impact on modern society, experiences of survivors and more.
Lake Martin
Weather
Lake Levels
66 40
490.29
High
Low
Reported on 04/18/18 @ 4 p.m.
LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443 6
54708 90050
8
USPS Permit # 013-080
laceyshowell@gmail.com 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL
We now have multiple pet groomers. Please give us a try! Mention this ad for a
10% discount on your first visit!
See DANIEL • Page 5
CACC remembers Holocaust with educational exhibit
ACPD to help with weekend cleanup effort
Today’s
A bench warrant has been issued for a man who served as a custodian at a local elementary school that has been indicted on allegations of sexual abuse of a child under the age of 12, after he did not appear for a scheduled court appearance. Court records indicate that Arthur Bama Daniel, 62, of Alexander City was indicted on Aug. 12, 2016 and arrested on Aug. 18 after results of an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse of the child were reported to police in 2016. Daniel was free on a $20,000 bond, but was due to appear in court on April 9. When he didn’t show up for court, Judge Steven Perryman issued a bench warrant for his arrest. A trial in the case had been continued twice previously, records show. Court documents offer few details in the case, but allege that Daniel had sexual contact
SUNDAY PICKUP/DROPOFF FROM 4:30 P M T O 5:30 P M Please Call for an Appointment
10390 AL Hwy 259 | Alexander City
256-215-5586
ALEX CITY LAWN SERVICE Ronnie Williamson Licensed and Insured | Free Estimates 20 Yearss Experience Ex xperieencee
256-749-1545 • 256-234-4298
+
This month began the nation’s annual commemoration of the Holocaust, and Central Alabama Community College will host its first Holocaust Month of Remembrance Exhibition. CACC’s Learning Resource Center is showcasing “The Vickerian Collection,” which includes an exhibit that focuses on the historical record of the Holocaust, the experiences of Holocaust survivors, the fallacy of historical revisionists, and the Holocaust’s impact on modern society, as well as its implications on our future. Robert Vickery II, current English instructor See HOLOCAUST • Page 5
+ Buy
Here + Pay Here + + CLEAN USED CARS No Credit Checks
Cars• Vans• Trucks • SUV’s
Midway Auto,Inc.
Off Hwy. 280 • Alexander City, AL (On Right Past the River Bridge)
256.825.9830
Page 2
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Friday
Brother’s fiancee is unaware of his hidden opiate addiction
71 45 Low
High Mostly sunny
Saturday
75 52 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.
Thursday, April 19, 2018
The Outlook
Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com Santana Wood Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 santana.wood@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Katie Wesson Retail Sales Manager, Ext. 232 tkatie.wesson@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Digital Marketing Coordinator, Ext. 231 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Kelly Cleveland Advertising Sales, Ext. 203 kelly.cleveland@alexcityoutlook.com
DEAR ABBY: My divorced 38-year-old brother is addicted to opiates. My wealthy, enabling mother constantly bails him out financially. My brother is engaged to a very kind woman -- a mother of three he met four months ago. She’s not aware of his lies, manipulations, debt and pill addiction. My brother has already destroyed a previous marriage with his actions, and I’m finding it difficult to sit back and let this happen to yet another innocent woman. I am tired of lying for him, and I know that eventually this will come to a head. Do I come forward with the truth now and possibly harm their relationship, or watch them go through with this marriage and hope for the best? -- UNSURE IN NASHVILLE, TENN. DEAR UNSURE: Be prepared for the eruption that is sure to follow, but for the sake of those children, let the woman know what she will
DEAR ABBY Advice
be dealing with if she goes through with the marriage. Whether she heeds your warning will be up to her, but at least she will know what she’s in for. DEAR ABBY: My teenage son and daughter confided to me that their younger cousin (15) has been posting on social media that she’s hanging out with men who are five years older and taking her mother’s car without her knowledge. My teens have both warned her that she’s making poor choices, but she won’t listen. It doesn’t help that there is no father around, and her mother doesn’t know how to
say “no.” My teens are very concerned. As the girl’s uncle, I need advice on how to intervene. -- PRIVY TO A BAD SITUATION DEAR PRIVY: It’s definitely time for some adult intervention. If you are at all close with your niece, talk with her about how dangerous what she’s doing is -- not only to herself, but also the men she’s been seeing because they could land in jail. While you’re at it, tell her mother what you know so she can hide her car keys before her daughter gets into a serious accident and hurts herself or someone else. DEAR ABBY: When my wife introduces me at a company event and/or party, she says, “This is my husband, ‘Philip’; he’s a teacher.” I am uncomfortable being introduced that way because people have the preconceived notion that being a teacher defines who I am (which it does not). I have pointed out that peo-
ple are not usually introduced with their careers, unless they are doctors. My wife says I’m “overreacting.” I have asked her to stop doing it, but she thinks I’m just being silly. Your thoughts/comments on our discussion would be greatly appreciated. -- MORE THAN A TEACHER IN ARIZONA DEAR MORE: You and your wife have a bigger problem than how she introduces you. You are married to someone who dismisses and belittles your feelings. Whether you are overreacting is beside the point. If you prefer not to be introduced the way she is doing it, she should have enough respect for you to comply with your request. Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com Erin Burton Office Assistant, Ext. 204 erin.burton@alexcityoutlook.com
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, Kenneth Boone Photography and a commercial web printing press. © 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
How to Submit Obituaries Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by email at obits@alexcityoutlook.com For more information, call (256) 234-4281.
Special / The Outlook
This drawing of a sunny day was made by Alyssa Abbett, a kindergartner at Horseshoe Bend, who says she likes playing outside when it is sunny and warm. The National Weather Service forecast for today calls for sunny skies and a high of 66 degrees. Tonight will also see clear skies and a low of 39.
Obituaries Mr. Henry James Graham
Mr. Clyde Hutcherson
Lovie Foster
Melvin C. Glenn
Graveside service for Mr. Henry James Graham, 78 of New York (formerly of Coosa County); Saturday, April 21, 2018; 2 p.m.; New Elam #1 Missionary Baptist Church, Alexander City, AL.
Mr. Clyde Hutcherson 63 of Virginia (formerly of Alexander City, AL) died Sunday, April 15, 2018 VA Hospital, Hampton, VA. Final arrangements pending.
Final Arrangements Entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Funeral Home.
Final Arrangements Entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Funeral Home.
Ms. Lovie Foster passed away Monday, April 16, 2018 at her residence. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will announced later by Wright’s Funeral Home.
Funeral Service for Mr. Melvin C. Glenn of Lineville, Alabama (formerly of New Site, Alabama) will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, April 19, 2018 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, New Site, Alabama with interment following in the church cemetery. Wright’s Funeral Home is serving the family.
Garnett “Peggy” Thomas Funeral Service for Mrs. Garnett “Peggy” Thomas of Kellyton, Alabama, will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday, April 20, 2018 at New Style United Methodist Church Wetumpka, Alabama with interment following in the church cemetery. Wright’s Funeral Home is serving the family.
SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law 135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL
825-9559 No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
YOU’RE NOT A SUBSCRIBER? Call 256-234-4281 and subscribe to The Outlook www.alexcityoutlook.com
Life has a
button
Chuck Reynolds Bankruptcy Attorney
35 Years Experience
116 N. Lanier Ave. Lanett, AL
149 Main Street Alexander City, AL
334-644-3042
256-329-1333
chucklaw.net
chucklaw.net
*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. “We are a debt relief agency and we are here to help you.”
We Care About You and Your Loved Ones!
•Home-like Environment • Specialized Dementia Care Unit •Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Services
A DAMS HEALTH & REHAB 1555 HILLABEE STREET • (256) 329-0847
Thursday, April 19, 2018
Page 3
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
Boys and Girls Club offering annual summer program The goal of the “Rock the Community” program is to give local children an exciting and fun-filled summer, while While perhaps being best also helping them develop known as an after-school some of the skills necessary pogram for children and to succeed in their future teenagers, a place where lives. During the program, students can go and take part participants will be surrounded in a wide variety of activities, by a host of caring individuals, the Boys and Girls Club of including current and retired the Lake Martin Area is once again gearing up for its annual teachers from area schools, college interns and staff summer program series. members from the Boys and As a way to fight off Girls Club. boredom and inspire “Our program is the only participants to achieve after-school program in town greatness, the Boys and Girls that implements the mission to Club will be holding “Rock inspire and enable all young the Community,” beginning people, especially those from on June 4 and wrapping up disadvantaged circumstances, on July 28. It is open to any to realize their full potential as child in the area, but space is productive, responsible, caring limited. citizens,” Executive Director During the program, Melissa Reynolds said. “We participants will be able to fulfill our mission by providing have breakfast and lunch a safe place to learn and grow, and enjoy a wide range of ongoing relationships with activities, including arts and crafts sessions, going bowling caring adult professionals, life-enhancing programs and to the movies, attending and character development Vacation Bible School, experiences.” engaging in reading programs For more information and many more events. In about the summer program addition to this, there will offered by the Boys and Girls also be a special program for teenagers, where attendees will Club, or to register, contact the administration office at be able to learn more about health and life skills, character, 256-234-4757. Registration can also be completed at leadership, education and the Sportplex Gym or at the career development, among Goodwater Unit. other topics. STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
File / The Outlook
New Site’s annual trade day and car show event will be Saturday at New Site Town Hall. The festivities will begin at 6 a.m. with a pancake breakfast with the car show to follow from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be multiple giveaways, various food and craft vendors, a swap meet, ‘50s music and door prizes.
New Site trade day event Saturday to be full of fun breakfast for the volunteer fire department,” Fuller said. Vendors of all sorts will there, she said. There will be vendors with hot dogs, snow The Town of New Site will host a trade cones and more, along with crafts and jewelry day this Saturday beginning at 6 a.m. with from locals as well as others that make the entertainment through 2 p.m. at New Site festival circuit. Town Hall featuring many items one might Fuller described some of what can be see at a fall festival, while there will also be a expected across the street at the car show. car show across the street. “They will have some giveaways,” Fuller “The trade day is combined with the car said. “They will also have some food vendors show,” Town Clerk Shelia Fuller said. and car type vendors too.” “The 17th Annual Klassic Kruisers Car The day begins at 6 a.m. with the pancake Show will be across the street next to the breakfast, with the car show to follow from volunteer fire department.” Fuller said the festivities of the day will get 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. across from the town hall. There will be multiple giveaways, vendors, a started early beginning with a fundraiser. swap meet, ‘50s music and door prizes. “At 6 a.m. at town hall will be a pancake By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
Madix Inc. in Goodwater awarded for outstanding safety excellence in all areas,” Manufacture Alabama’s president George Clark said. “We’re proud of the outstanding record of Alabama’s manufacturing community in providing Madix Inc. in Goodwater was awarded on employees with a safe and healthy working April 12 for its outstanding 2017 worker safety environment,” Clark said, “and we congratulate record by the Alabama Department of Labor and Globe Motors on its safety achievements, along with Manufacture Alabama, the state’s manufacturing the many others with superb safety records who trade association. participate in our safety awards program.” The awards were presented at Manufacture Madix Inc. in Goodwater was awarded first Alabama’s Safety/Human Resources/Health place in the plant group 337/Division 3 (furniture Conference, which is an annual event providing instructions and demonstrations to manufacturers on & related product manufacturing with 251 to 500 employees). how to improve safety programs. A total of 57 plants participated in Manufacture “No element of the manufacturing process is more Alabama’s Safety Achievement Awards program. important than worker safety, and this Manufacture Manufacture Alabama’s achievement awards were Alabama safety conference and awards program presented to 28 of those that operated the most hours is in line with our association’s commitment to helping our member companies achieve competitive with the fewest accidents in 2017. STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
Submitted / The Outlook
Madix, Inc in Goodwater was recognized for its outstanding safety by earning a first place award in the NAICS code group 337 of Division 3 at the Alabama Department of Labor and Manufacture Alabama’s annual conference April 12. Pictured are, from left, Madix’s Jonathan Rodgers and Safety Committee Chairman Tim Stroth of Aker Solutions.
Horse
continued from page 1
“We have been checking with people out on the areas where she was seen that may have horses to see if they are missing one,” Orr said. “But so far we’ve not had any luck. That’s why we are trying to again get the word out. If someone is missing a horse, or knows anyone who may be, we ask that they let us know. “The horse has been neglected and we want to find out what we can about where she may have come from.” The horse, who has been given the name Lillian according to Hand, was first spotted and reported to be on the loose entering property off Dobbs Road. Animal control officers responded, fanned out through the woods and came up empty. From there the horse was spotted on North Central, near Armour’s Funeral Home. From there she went over the hill at the cemetery and headed towards the city’s inert landfill. A few minutes later dispatchers had a call that she was on Meadows Street and officers were able to track her to Old Kellyton Road. After getting close to the horse off County Road near Auto Zone, in the parking lot at Walmart, and on Washington Street again in a field next to Roy Granger’s old place, they got a
File / The Outlook
This wayward mare, since named Lillian, sent officials and residents on a four-hour chase last week until they got her to safety. She is now being taken care of, but her owners have yet to be found. Anyone with information is urged to contact Capt. Orr at the ACPD at 256-234-3421.
break off Commerce Drive. Hand went and got his own horse and the mare warmed up to it. After
FREE CONSULTATIONS
“It’s not the end ... It’s a new beginning”
256-329-1313 217 Madison Street, Alexander City, AL “We are a Debt Relief Agency. We help people file Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 under the Bankruptcy Code. Alabama State Bar requires the following in every attorney advertisement, “ No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”
being unable to lure it into a trailer, Hand saddled his horse and the mare followed him all the way to his pasture
off Old Kellyton Road. Hand said the horse didn’t appear to have been exposed to people much at all, seemed unfamiliar with a halter, a feed bucket and has an issue with a front hoof. She wouldn’t eat for the first two days, but after giving Lillian some dewormer, she is eating much better. “We don’t think she’s very old at all – maybe 16 to 18 months,” Hand said. “I’ve been working with her and she’s getting better. I can get a halter on her now and she will let you touch her. I’ve been brushing her and just letting her get used to us. She’s a lot better now than she was, but still has a long way to go.” Plans are to get her checked out by a vet and have a farrier look at her hooves. “We’ve heard all sort of things since all this started,” Hand said. “Someone said she was seen early that day way up off Brick Plant Road near Hackneyville. Someone else said that she may be a mustang. I don’t see any of the markings they were talking about, so I don’t know about that. All I know is that I’m glad she’s safe and that she won’t be mistreated anymore.” Anyone with information can contact Orr at the Alexander City Police Department at 256-234-3421.
Administrative Assistant Needed For Urgent employment
ASBESTOS LITIGATION
Seeking a highly motivated, reliable individual with school-based administrative assistant, office staff, or office manager experience who can assist with a wide range of administrative tasks. Submit your resume to juanpark@consultant.com We promise that we’ll have a look at all applicants very closely.
If you began working in a
TEXTILE MILL Cotton mill Tire plant Paper mill Steel mill
or any other industrial setting before 1980:
WE WILL CUSTOMIZE A PLAN SPECIFICALLY FOR YOUR NEEDS. Call one of marketing representatives today!
256-234-4281
You may have a claim against the asbestos manufacturers.
Call now for your free evaluation.
1-888-432-6020 Asbestos Claims, LLC, Jubal L. Hamil Attorney at Law, ARPC7.2.(e) “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.”
Opinion
MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213
editor@alexcityoutlook.com
EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
Page 4
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Our
View
We should think before we post
P
eople network with family, friends and colleagues in more ways than one and keep those connections through social media. The First Amendment grants us a right to freedom of expression, information etc. and the advent of social media went hand in hand with that. As a news outlet, we’ve seen social media serve as a wonderful tool to disseminate information. We love its ability to work for us in our endeavors to keep the public informed when news happens beyond office hours. But we also recognize the pitfalls that come with that freedom and anonymity. The instant transmission of information sometimes reveals a lot of bad. Don’t believe us? Just check the comment section on any newsworthy post these days. With cyber bullying at an all time high we can’t help but think about the true weight of these tools we’ve been given. In less advanced times we were more likely to think before we spoke because communication was in person or not as anonymous as we now have via Twitter, Facebook or Snapchat. In today’s world, we find ourselves asking almost daily: What were they thinking? We’ve seen child pornography shared via social media, crimes broadcast live over the internet, people posing in profile photos with murder weapons and social media users making public death threats to law enforcement. Those examples aren’t national news, those all happened right here in Tallapoosa County. It seems nowadays we need a little help thinking before we type or before we share false information. Social media can be a great tool and we know this. But as with many of our rights we also have a responsibility to do our part to maintain some sort of order. We urge everyone to remember there is a person behind every post, news story, comment, share or like on social media. Think of it like this. Don’t post anything that you wouldn’t want your mother or child to see. Pretty simple rule, but it works. Let’s do our part to make sure we not only think before we type, but we read and research before we share.
Outlook The
Learning to share in life I have eight beautiful, talented and kind grandchildren from three to 10 years old. Four live in Atlanta and four live in Southern California. They all amaze me. Recently they were all in town at my house, and they were singing the songs from the Broadway musical Hamilton. Even the youngest of the kids knew every lyric. I was impressed. They all have their unique talents, and it is fun to watch them as they grow up. Avery is in the first grade. He is the most musical of all the kids. We think Avery might have the stage in his future. Along with singing and playing the piano he also plays baseball and basketball and is a wellrounded little boy. One of the things their family does on a monthly basis is to help feed the homeless at a place in Atlanta called Safehouse Outreach. The mission of Safehouse Outreach is to help transition people experiencing homelessness from the streets of Atlanta to self-sufficiency. It is beautiful to watch Avery and his cousins as they serve the homeless of Atlanta. My grandchildren are not afraid of people who are different than they are. They are learning not to judge people because we do not know people’s stories and to love everyone. When I watch them serve, I am a very proud granddad. A few months ago, his
to use his money to help the poor and homeless. We RAY were all so happy that the money was given, and a little WATERS boy got to see the power of Columnist a group of people coming together around being generous. mom and dad were talking A few weeks ago, my son with Avery over dinner. and daughter in law received Somehow the conversation a call from Safehouse. This turned to, “What would you coming Saturday night at the do if you had $1,000?” Ritz Carlton in downtown Avery quickly responded Atlanta they will have their he would give it to help 23rd Annual Urban Gala. feed the poor at Safehouse. My wife and I have attended Rachel, Avery’s mom, in the past. It is a way they later that night posted the raise hundreds of thousands conversation on Instagram of dollars to support the and Facebook. She thought it work they do. Safehouse told was a sweet thought shared Ethan and Rachel that this by her oldest son. But it year they are giving Avery didn’t end there. the Champion’s Award. The next morning two Avery and his mom and dad family members responded will be called up to the stage, to the post with, “I’ll pledge and the story shared with towards his dream.” With everyone at the gala. that little encouragement, Grandchildren are a Rachel did a quick video blessing. We love watching with Avery where he told them grow and learn new his story and ask his friends things. But nothing compares to contribute through a to seeing them be kind to Gofundme account his others. They all are learning family had set up. His they have been given a lot birthday was a week away in life. And now they need so the idea was to give a to learn how to give back to gift in Avery’s name so people who are struggling. $1,000 could be raised for Saturday night we will be Safehouse. at the Gala and will probably And just like that the shed a few tears when they money started coming in. call out Avery’s name. I In a few days, the $1,000 can’t hide it. I am one proud goal was satisfied. Then granddad. $2,000 came streaming in. To everyone’s amazement Ray Waters is a minister, in a matter of days, $2,700 a motivational speaker and had been collected all from a regular columnist for The a little boy saying he wanted Outlook.
Bobby Tapley
Buffy Colvin
Scott Hardy
Eric Brown
Tommy Spraggins
Tommy Spraggins
Dear Editor, Despite some recent and significant progress under Mayor Nabors and our new city council, our city remains in most serious trouble. Sadly Alex City has a reputation for being a town many persons wish to move out of and few wish to move into. This sad fact is confirmed by the huge number of homes on the market for sale frequently accompanied by a sign proclaiming that the price has been reduced. As one drives around Alex City one is shocked at the large number of homes where large trees have fallen on them destroying them or inflicting severe damage upon them. There the fallen trees and the destroyed or severely damage houses remain for month, after month, after month. These destroyed or severely damaged houses with the culprit trees still atop their badly dam-
Tim Funderburk
aged roofs or lying unremoved from their front lawns create an ugly image in the eyes of all passersby and send a strong signal of total indifference on the part of our city government to the appearance of our town. “Uglyville” or “Trashtown” are not epithets that will help our town to grow and prosper. I have been told that some persons connected with our city government believe the city can do nothing because these damage or destroyed properties are properties. To these people I say, “Go to well-kept and well maintained towns and such damaged and destroyed properties with the culprit trees still lying where they fell are not to be found.” Can these persons believe that the wind only blows trees down on houses in Alex City? To our city government I say, “Please for the sake of the appearance, the welfare, and the prosperity of Alex City, as well as for
the unfortunate owners of such properties, get busy and remove these trees.” I also urge our city government to look into the matter of extremely busy intersections that desperately need a traffic light and have none. Please do not wait for one or more tragic accidents to correct this matter. I also urge our city government to appoint a committee to do whatever is necessary to attract good restaurants to Alex City. Cleaning up properties in Alex City will cause the town to project a much more attractive image, placing traffic lights at extremely busy intersections that have none and procuring some more attractive restaurants will each and together contribute to Alex City’s moving towards becoming a pretty, happy and prosperous town. Bill King Alexander City
Congratulations on a great showcase Dear Editor,
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.
alexcityoutlook.com
Daily Poll
Wednesday Question: Do you think the Lake Martin area needs a tourism bureau to help draw visitors?
No — 61%, 23 votes Yes — 39%, 15 votes
Thursday Question: Do you think officials’ cleanup efforts are necessary to keep the Lake Martin area clean? 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.
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.
Reader: City remains in serious trouble
Eric Brown represents
represents District 5. His phone number is 256-234-3609. His address is 1539 College Street, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of Finance committee.
Scripture
“If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.” —Romans 10:9-10
How to
Letters to the Editor
Scott Hardy represents
District 4. His phone number is 256-3972011. His address is 1421 Parrish Drive, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Public Works committee.
Today’s
Mission
Jim Nabors
Buffy Colvin 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.
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” —Benjamin Franklin
Subscribe
Bobby Tapley represents
District 2. Her phone number is 256-750-0663. Her address is 786 I Street, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Buildings and Property committee.
Quote
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
District 1. His phone number is 256-3920344. His address is 1821 LaVista Road, Alexander City, AL 35010. Chairman of the Public Safety committee.
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, April 19, 2018
I attended the Alexander City Schools Fine Arts Showcase this past weekend. What a wonderful way to display students art work and demonstrate their artistic
talents. Not only did this provide the students a time to “shine,” but it gave parents and community members the opportunity to see and hear what was happening with the arts. All those involved with mak-
ing this happen art to be congratulated and I trust we will see another “showcase” next year. Myra J. Walters Retired Education Administrator
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!
Follow us
On the Web
Follow The Outlook on the Internet on our website or on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Log on to http://www.alexcityoutloook.com. 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, April 19, 2018
Cleanup Steve Morgan said. “We are trying to help them get the word out.” The police department is helping with organizing groups to go out and pick up litter. “We have a city crew that goes around picking up trash,” Morgan said. “They are helping with a mapping system with problem areas so we can help clean up.” Volunteers are asked to come by the Alexander City City Hall to sign up and either be assigned an area to pick up or let organizers know where they are picking up. “We are going to organize groups,” Morgan said. “Just come in here and sign up. We are going to concentrate on 280 and look at the trouble spots inside the city limits. We are going to try to clean up some roads from point to point.” Tools and safety equipment are being provided and the bags of litter picked up are good for food. “As far as safety goes, we are going to provide the pickers, vests and pick up bags,” Morgan said. “And to encourage everyone to pick up, every bag they pick up they are going to get a Sonny’s Hot Dog, bag of chips and a drink.” Morgan says this is the police department’s way of helping out now that the city has an inspector to help with such things again. “We are trying to get back to our efforts of cleaning up the town after four years without a code enforcement officer,” Morgan said. For those with questions about this weekend’s clean up can call Morgan at 256-329-8426 or Captain James Orr at 256-329-6772. Lake Martin Resource Association’s John Thompson along with Ed Collari, Jacob Meacham, Bre Smith, Sabrina Wood, Steve Robinson, Russell Lands CEO Tom Lamberth, Lake Martin Economic Development Administrator Denise
Holocaust for CACC, said, “I decided to create this traveling exhibition in collaboration with CACC this year to continue the efforts of Elie Wiesel, ‘the messenger to mankind,’ of bringing the history and lessons of the Holocaust outside of the classroom in order to reach varying audiences from the smallest towns to the largest cities. I was fortunate enough to be able to work with Elie Wiesel on my graduate thesis, and he told me that by remembering the Holocaust and educating others on the tragedy, we, in return, become survivors. This is especially true for me now that he, as well as many other survivors, have now passed.” The collection showcases the historical imagery of the experiences during the Holocaust and World War II. Such items include an actual piece of the Berlin Wall, correspondence with Elie Wisel, autographs from survivors such as “The Nazi Hunter” Simon Wiesenthal, actual documentation from Nazi soldiers,
Daniel with a boy under the age of 12. The charge is a Class B felony in the state of Alabama and a conviction on the charge can carry between 1 and 10 years in prison. Daniel, who worked at Stephens Elementary School as a custodian, was placed on administrative leave at the time the allegations
Page 5
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
Public Meetings continued from page 1
Walls, Alexander City City Council President Tommy Spraggins, Alexander City Mayor Jim Nabors and Amy Passaretti are all involved in the CCP initiative. The partnership hopes to do more than just pick up litter but to look at ways at preventing the litter to start with and is trying to build on the efforts of long time litter advocate John Thompson. “Everyone knows that this is something that I have been passionate about for a long time,” Thompson said. “But while we’ve been doing some good things, it just wasn’t enough. “This couldn’t just be me or a handful of volunteers, we need a massive, constant effort and we really feel like we have a group that understands the importance and who are dedicated to getting aggressive with the problem.” Thompson said the first step is to address problem areas and clean up what is there now, while starting the process of raising awareness and trying to stop the constant trashing of our community. The group will sponsor and coordinate cleanups on the third Saturday of each month and during the April 21 cleanup, Thompson hopes to hit Highway 280 from the River Bridge to Kellyton hard. “Highway 280 is one of the first areas people who come to Alexander City see and for many people, that’s all they see if they are passing through,” Thompson said. “For a lot of reasons, we haven’t hit that corridor much in other cleanups. That’s why we really want to work that with a massive group and address it. You drive it and look. On the right of ways there is a lot of trash, but just off that it’s even worse. It looks really bad and we think if we get enough people, it can really make a difference.”
the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Board Room in the courthouse in Rockford. All meetings are open to the public. • Dadeville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. with a pre-meeting at 5:30 p.m. in city hall. • Daviston City Council meets the third Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the Daviston Fire Department. • Goldville Town Council meets the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the town hall. • Goodwater City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held at the Caldwell Center at 6:30 p.m. • Jackson’s Gap Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 6:30 p.m., all Jackson’s Gap citizens are encouraged to attend. • Kellyton Town Council meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the community center in Kellyton. • New Site City Council meets the first and third Monday of the month at 5 p.m. in the Conference
• Alexander City Board of Education meets on the third Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the board office at 375 Lee St. or local school at 5 p.m. • Alexander City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in the courtroom at the old city hall at 5:30 p.m. • Camp Hill Town Council meets the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 6 p.m. • Community Action Agency of Chambers, Tallapoosa, Coosa will holds its regular board of directors meetings every other month at the Central Office in Dadeville. • Coosa County Board of Education holds called meetings at least once a month. • Coosa County Commission meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the Coosa County Courthouse in Rockford at 9:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday and at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday. • Coosa County Industrial Development Board will hold its regularly scheduled meeting
Room in the Town Hall. • Ray Water Authority meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Ray Water Authority Office. All customers are invited to attend. • Rockford Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 7 p.m. • Tallapoosa County Board of Education meets on the second Monday of each month. Meetings are held in the new central office at 679 East Columbus Street, Dadeville, AL 36853. • Tallapoosa County Commission meets the second Monday of the month at 9 a.m. in the courthouse in Dadeville, with a pre-meeting also open to the public 30 minutes before each regular session. • Tallapoosa County 911 Board will meet on the second Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m. in the 911 Administrative office at 240 West Columbus Street, Dadeville. Call 825-8490 for more information. • Walnut Hill Water Authority meets the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited. Call 825-9841 to inquire about the agenda.
your news... your community...
continued from page 1
stamps and money from the ghettos of the Holocaust, signed books documenting the many perspectives of this time period from Adolf Hitler’s bodyguard and pilot to “Schindler’s List,” “Maus,” “Night” and more. “The Vickerian Collection” is on display in the lobby of the CACC Library and is free to the public and is the first part of a circuit that Robert Vickery II and CACC are hosting. He is also showcasing a “Collections Exhibit,” which includes an original sketch by Vincent Van Gogh, the first and last newspaper printing of “Peanuts” by Charles Shultz, and autographed works of Dr. Seuss. The library is open to the public Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Robert Vickery II is planning on starting a series of rotating collections, so if you, or someone you know, have a collection that you would like to share, please contact him at rvickeryii@cacc.edu.
your life! Stay connected to all the local news and information. Whether you’re looking for high school sports scores, the community calendar of events, an obituary, a wedding announcement, or the latest news in the area . . .
It’s all HERE! The EZ-pay plan allows you to conveniently pay for your newspaper each month via a credit
continued from page 1
card or checking account.
arose. Alexander City Schools Superintendent Dr. Darrell Cooper said at the time of the indictment that allegations allege the incident did occur at school. Daniel is no longer listed as a school system employee. As of Wednesday afternoon, the warrant was still active and Daniel remained at large.
FAST IN THE CLASSIFIEDS Let us help you place an ad today, Please Call 256.277.4219 in print or online!
Y A P Z E
•SAFE •SECURE •CONVENIENT No Hassles No Stamps No Checks No Bills
SUBSCRIBE today and you get: 9 Lake & Lake Martin Living Magazines 9 Weekly coupon inserts 9Special monthly editions 9 Full access to online editions Subscribe Today! Call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281
I SOLD IT
Alexander City Outlook • Dadeville Record Wetumpka Herald • Eclectic Observer • Tallassee Tribune
Your Future DĂƩĞƌƐ ƚŽ hƐ͘ WŽĂƌĐŚ ŝƐ ƉƌŽƵĚ ƚŽ ďĞ Ă ƉĂƌƚŶĞƌ ŝŶ ůĂďĂŵĂ͛Ɛ ƉƌŽŐƌĞƐƐ͘ Know that the people protecting your home are licensed by the State of Alabama.
Licensedsecurity.org Do have a home security system? Are you licensed in Alabama? CALL THIS NEWSPAPER’S AD DEPARTMENT TO PLACE YOUR AD Or call 1-800-264-7043
tĞ ŚĂǀĞ Ă ƚƌĂĚŝƟŽŶ ŽĨ ŝŶĐůƵĚŝŶŐ ŽƚŚĞƌƐ͘ WŽĂƌĐŚ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƐ ŵŽƌĞ ƚŚĂŶ ϭϯ͕ϬϬϬ ũŽďƐ ƚŽ WŽĂƌĐŚ ƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƐ ŵŽƌĞ ƚŚĂŶ ϭϯ͕ϬϬϬ ũŽďƐ ƚŽ ůĂďĂŵŝĂŶƐ͕ ƉĂLJƐ ŵŝůůŝŽŶƐ ŝŶ ƐƚĂƚĞ ƚĂdžĞƐ ĞĂĐŚ LJĞĂƌ͕ ĂŶĚ ůĂďĂŵŝĂŶƐ͕ ƉĂLJƐ ŵŝůůŝŽŶƐ ŝŶ ƐƚĂƚĞ ƚĂdžĞƐ ĞĂĐŚ LJĞĂƌ͕ ĂŶĚ ŵĂŬĞƐ ĐŚĂƌŝƚĂďůĞ ĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƟŽŶƐ ƌĞĂĐŚŝŶŐ ŶĞĂƌůLJ Ψϴ ŵŝůůŝŽŶ ĂŶŶƵĂůůLJ͘ ^ƚƌŽŶŐ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝƟĞƐ ĐĂŶ ŚĞůƉ ďƵŝůĚ Ă ďĞƩĞƌ ůŝĨĞ ĨŽƌ Ăůů͘ > D E d/s ^͘ > D E /', KZ^͘ WŽĂƌĐŚEĞŝŐŚďŽƌƐ͘ĐŽŵ ƉĐŝͲŶƐŶ͘ŐŽǀ Ϯϱϭ͘ϯϲϴ͘ϵϭϯϲ
Page 6
www.alexcityoutlook.com
CommunityCalendar Need Insurance? Call me.
Today is April 19, 2018 Today’s Events
SENIORS ALIVE: Guy Anderson will be at Lake Pointe Baptist Church on Highway 50 in Dadeville Thursday, April 19 to share a mixture of comedy and a serious message for senior adults. Churches are asked to sign up to bring crock pots of soup or desserts by Monday, April 9 by calling 256-825-4441. This presentation is a ministry and fellowship
Thursday, April 19, 2018
The Outlook
opportunity of the Tallapoosa Baptist Association. SENIORX: Deborah Jones, SenioRX coordinator will be at the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce April 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to help seniors determine if they are eligible for assistance with diabetic supplies, liquid supplements and medications. For more information contact Deborah Jones at 1-800-361-1636 or 256-761-3575. COMMUNITY MEETING: PATH Lake Martin will hold its Community Planning Meeting on Thursday, April 19, at noon, at the Lake Martin
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/. Innovation Center. DEMOCRATIC PARTY MEETING: The Tallapoosa County Democratic Party is hosting a meeting Thursday, April 19 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Bud Porch Center in Alexander City. 3rd Congressional District candidate Mallory Hagan is the speaker. For more information contact Carol Gowan at 256-7947432.
SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
Today’s Birthdays
Marie Harrelson, David Patterson Jr., Keasha Goodman, Rachel Marie Livingston and Wessie Robinson are celebrating their birthdays today.
256.234.3481
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
KarenChannell.com
Donald Campbell / The Outlook
dB
Lawn Care Darrell Brooks, Owner Cutting •Edging Weed Eating •Mulch Weed Control
256.267.0518
As part of their studies on dominant and recessive genes, AP Biology students at Benjamin Russell dressed as Native Americans Wednesday, making headbands and teepees with information about genes and meiosis on them.
Now - April 30
REGISTRATION FOR JUNQUE JUBILEE VENDORS: Registration is open now through April 30 for anyone interested in being a vendor at MainStreet Alexander City’s Junque Jubilee, an upscale yard sale event in downtown Alexander City Saturday, May 12 starting at 8 a.m. with shops opening at 10 a.m. There is a $20 application fee and event organizers ask none of the vendors bring clothing or shoes to sell. Deadline for registration is April 30. For more information on the event or registration, contact MainStreet Alexander City at 256-329-9227.
Friday, April 20
Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy 2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
Come Visit Us! Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing
How to add a calendar item: Participate in your
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892
By e-mailing your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or call 256-234-4281. _____ Send your news items to editor@alexcityoutlook.com
GOSPEL SINGING: Family Worship Center at 1676 Sewell St. in Alexander City will be hosting a gospel singing with New Ground Friday, April 20 at 6 p.m. Tony Harris is pastor. Everyone is welcome. For information, call 256-794-2969.
Saturday, April 21
FAMILY FESTIVAL: The Coosa County Family Festival, Keeping Coosa Connected will be April 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Coosa Central High School. Over 40 agencies will be taking part with lots of free activities for children. Vendor registration forms are available by emailing martyrittmann@gmail.com or by contacting the Lake Martin United Way office at uw211@unitedwaylakemartin.org or calling 256-329-3600. FAITH BRUNCH: Tallapoosa’s Caring REFUGE (Reaching Everyday Fighters Utilizing God’s Embrace) is hosting “FAITH bigger fear” Tablescapes Brunch at the First Baptist Church Family Life Center at 10 a.m. Speakers will be Tillie Parks and Jennifer Martin. Tickets are $25. Contract Glenda Briley at 256-566-9685 to host or decorate a table. KLASSIC KRUISERS: The 17th Annual Klassic Cruisers Car Show is Saturday, April 21 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. across from the New Site City Hall. Registration is $20 and a vendor fee is $20. There will be a cash money tree, 50/50 pot and door prizes along with a swap meet and food vendors. A DJ will be playing ‘50s music. Proceeds benefit the community including the New Site Fire Department, the New Site Ambulance and the Daviston Fire Department. There will be a pancake breakfast at 6 a.m. at City Hall. For more information contact Roy Colley at 256-234-6928 or 256-3074855. TRADE DAY: There will be a community trade day event Saturday, April 21 with a pancake breakfast, car show, flea market and a variety of vendors. The public is invited to come for this day of fun at New Site Town Hall. TRADE DAY: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends Monthly Trade Day in Millerville on Highway 9 between Ashland and Goodwater will be held on April 21 from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Refreshments are also available.
Sunday, April 22
CHURCH SINGING: Emmaus Road will be at County Line Baptist Church in the Dudleyville community Sunday, April 22 at 6 p.m. A love offering will be taken and a time of fellowship will follow. For more information call Bro. Mike Beck at 334-354-3908.
HOMECOMING: Family Worship Center at 1676 Sewell St. is hosting a homecoming Sunday, April 22 at 10 a.m. Lunch will be served after the morning service. Tony Harris is pastor. Everyone is welcome. For information, call 256-794-2969. PASTORAL ANNIVERSARY: Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church is celebrating the 5th Pastoral Anniversary of Rev. and Sister Melvin C. Kelley Jr. Sunday, April 22 at 2 p.m. The guest minister is Rev. Terry L. Magby of New Mount Sellers Missionary Baptist Church in Lafayette. CONCERT: Jacquie Cruz and Gary Klarenbeek will be at Red Ridge United Methodist Church Sunday, April 22 at 3 p.m. Cruz is a soprano and her performance will feature pieces from her album “Hopeful” as well as a few new works by Heather Sorenson. Klarenbeek is Cruz’s father and is a tenor and pianist. They have performed in churches all over. No tickets are required and love offering will be received. For more information call 256-825-9820. CHURCH SINGING: Samaritan Trio will be the guest singers for Homecoming at Marvin Chapel United Methodist Church, Alabama Highway 148, Clay County, Sunday, April 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Please bring potluck covered dishes. Lunch is noon to 1 p.m.
Monday, April 23
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: The Lake Martin Area Industrial Development Authority will hold its quarterly meeting on Monday, April 23 at 10 a.m. in the Board Room of the Betty Carol Graham Technology center on the Alexander City campus of Central Alabama Community College. MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION: The April meeting of the Alex City Area Ministerial Association will be Monday, April 23 at 6:30 p.m. at GAP Fellowship Church at 721 Robinson Court.
April 25 - 28
TRAIL RIDES: The Weogufka Center for Arts is hosting trail rides April 25 at 10 a.m., April 26 at 9 a.m. and April 27 at 9 a.m. with the Annual Mule Day April 28. For more information contact the Chuck Wagon Guys, Edwin Petty at 205-389-0236, Donald Ellison at 205294-0062 or Ricky Talley at 205-6461640.
Thursday, April 26
BENEFIT DINNER: The Alexander City Rotary Club Foundation is hosting its Imagination Library Annual Benefit Thursday, April 26 at 5:30 p.m. at the T.C. Russell Hangar.
Friday, April 27
WORKSHOP: The Alabama Extension Service is holding a class “Managing Fire Ants” Friday, April 27 at the Betty Carol Graham Technology Center from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The workshop will feature fire ant biology, research based control techniques, recommended pesticides and product demonstrations. It is ADAI approved for re-certification points. Contact the Tallapoosa County Extension Office at 256-825-1050 to register. Cost is $5 and is due by Wednesday, April 25. Lunch is not provided.
Saturday, April 28
REUNION: The annual New Site High School reunion will be Saturday,
April 28 at 10 a.m. in the Horseshoe Bend High School Commons area. Please bring a covered dish. MULE DAY: The Weogufka Center is hosting its annual Mule Day Saturday, April 28. There will be buggy rides and trial rides. A sausage biscuit breakfast is from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. The Train Man will be there as will an antique car and truck show. For more information visit the weogufkacenter.org of the Weogufka Center Facebook page. 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, April 28. Begin with hot dogs, pizza, chips and soft drinks.
THE MEADOWS ASSISTED LIVING
2712 Washington Street Alexander City
256-234-0800
Monday, April 30
DEADLINE FOR VENDORS: MainStreet Alexander City is hosting Junque Jubilee in downtown Alexander City Saturday, May 12 starting at 8 a.m. with shops opening at 10 a.m. April 30 is the last day for vendors to register. There is a $20 application fee. Event organizers ask none of the vendors bring clothing or shoes to sell. For more information on the event or registration, contact MainStreet Alexander City at 256-329-9227.
Tuesday, May 1
USHER MEETING: The Early Rose District Usher’s meeting will be Tuesday, May 1 at 5 p.m. at the Early Rose District Center.
–Since 1978–
BIG “B” BAR-B-QUE “We Cook The Best BETTER!”
Hickory Grilled Meat BBQ • STEAK CHICKEN • CATFISH
256.329.9996 Hwy. 22 West, Alexander City, AL
Thursday, May 3
DAY OF PRAYER: The Alex City Ministerial Association is hosting the National Day of Prayer at the First Baptist Church sanctuary Thursday, May 3 at noon. DAY OF PRAYER: Hackneyville will be hosting its third annual National Day Prayer from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Hackneyville Community Center. Everyone is invited to attend.
Friday, May 4
PRODUCTION: The Mt. Vernon Theatre In Tallassee is hosting “The Firemen’s Training” Friday, May 4.
Saturday, May 5
FACEBOOK SOCIAL: Do you have friends on Facebook that you’ve never met? Here is your chance to spend some time with them face to face. The first Alexander City Facebook Social Mixer will be held at Strand Park from 12 noon until 5 p.m. Hotdogs will be for sale and you can bring your own refreshments. Come out and invite your Facebook friends. BAKE SALE: The First United Methodist Church UMW is hosting a baked and frozen foods sale Saturday, May 5 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Trinity Campus on Highway 280. Proceeds will benefit local and global mission projects. CHORAL REUNION: The Alexander City State Junior College Reunion Singers present “Songs from Our Past” Saturday, May 5 at 6 p.m. at the Betty Carol Graham Technology Center. Admission is free but donations to the Central Alabama Community College are appreciated. CLAY SHOOT: The Annual Alexander City Kiwanis Club Sporting Clays Competition will be Saturday, May 5 at the Five Star Plantation. Registration deadline is Friday, April 27. For more information contact Phil Blasingame at 256-307-4004.
Tony Guy, Owner Over 40 Years Experience
H&A Installation, Charge Outs and Repair Sheet Metal Work
FREE Estimates on NEW installations Service a 30 mile radius of Alexander City Licensed and Bonded #:84887 guysheating@live.com 256–234–4198 196 Thompson Ridge Road Alexander City, AL
The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow
The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for 2nd, 3rd, and Weekend Shifts for Direct Care. Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Shatia Carr (334) 252-0025, Ext. 101 Email: Scarr@learning-tree.org
Thursday, April 19, 2018
The Outlook
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 7
Page 8
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
Thursday, April 19, 2018
Thursday, April 19, 2018
Trial
The Outlook
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Alexander City School Board is preparing to begin the search for a new city school superintendent as superintendent Dr. Darrell Cooper will be retiring in December. Cooper suggested the board begin conducting its interviews by mid-September and reach a hiring decision by mid-October, allowing the new superintendent plenty of time (a month and a half) to make the move to Alexander City and get settled in before fully taking over in January. Left, Cooper speaks at last weekend’s art showcase.
continued from page 1
another where he allegedly penetrated the girl in a bedroom at his home and another where he had her perform oral sex on him. “He took me to the bedroom,” the girl said when questioned by Hall. After struggling to remember more, she tried to describe what happened in the bedroom. “He put his lower private part area in my lower private area,” she said. She said she didn’t remember anything about the rest except the initial contact. The sixth-grader also testified that she remembered something else happening on the sofa but couldn’t recall any of the details anymore. In opening statements, it was alleged that Withers had the girl perform oral sex on him in the living room. Responding to a question from Withers’ attorney Charles Gillenwaters, the girl said that Withers threatened to beat her if she told anyone. The girl’s brother, who is four years older than the victim, testified that he recalled Withers taking his sister in the bedroom. Gillenwaters, who repeatedly hammered Withers’ constant denials of any wrongdoing, asked the boy if his sister had ever accused him of touching her inappropriately. He said she did, but it was later learned that his sister had lied about it. The girl’s mother testified about how they had come to live with Withers and how she finally learned of the contact while talking with her daughter while preparing her for a bath. She also said she didn’t initially call police or the Department of Human Resources because she had been convicted of willful abuse of a child stemming for discipline she used on one of her kids. Gillenwaters dug into that background on cross examination and questioned her on the allegations and why she handled them the way she did. Wednesday’s testimony ended with the mother still on the stand. Forensic interviewers who talked to the girl shortly after the report was made are expected to testify today, while jurors may see video of the interviews.
Page 9
File / The Outlook
Superintendent a hiring decision by mid-October, which would allow the new superintendent a month and a half to make the move to Alexander City and get settled in before taking over fully in January. Sturdivant suggested the board begin engaging with representatives from the service as soon as possible, but a more definite course of action would be laid out in time for the May meeting of the board. During Tuesday night’s meeting, the board saw a pair of special presentations from both students and parents. The first presentation was put on by technology and STEM classes and the media club at Jim Pearson Elementary School. Showing off their coding skills, a pair of students from the STEM class programmed Lego sets to follow certain commands. One set launched a top-like spinner, while the other set, built to look like a sitting monkey, tapped out different beats on a small drum set. The tech students demonstrated their work in robotics, using apps in order to program movements and actions into a pair of robots. Lastly, the media club showed its work with a recently acquired green screen to edit images. Before the meeting, the media club asked each of the board members where they would visit on their dream vacation and took a photo of each of the board members. During the meeting, the media club members pulled up images of the board members in places like Johannesburg, South Africa, Bora Bora and Italy,
continued from page 1
among other places. The second presentation came from Corley Holt, the parent of two students in the city school system, both of whom have dyslexia. Holt described herself as being a mom on a mission to educate others about dyslexia, bringing a greater awareness and understanding about the condition to the public. Stressing that dyslexia does not have an impact on a child’s learning and that no two people with dyslexia are the same, she believed there should be some emphasis placed on making sure the city schools have the resources necessary to effectively work with students who have dyslexia. The following items were also discussed by the board: • Minutes from the March 20 meeting were approved. • Filling in for financial officer Rhonda Blythe, Cooper presented the finance report, explaining all school accounts had been reconciled, there were approximately four months of reserve funds in the school system coffers, and the general and reserve funds were in very good shape. “We’re ahead of what was budgeted,” Cooper said. • The retirements of Radney Elementary teacher Willie Earl Banks, Benjamin Russell social sciences teacher Julie Haynes and Benjamin Russell language arts teacher Connie Pridgen were approved, as were the resignations of Jim Pearson teacher Stephanie Borden and ACMS social sciences teacher Deana
Freeman. The board also approved nine faculty transfers within the system, nine new hires, contracts with Rhonda Strickland to serve as a math intervention coach at Radney Elementary and LaTawn Taylor as a contract cosmetology instructor at Benjamin Russell and a host of summer supplemental contracts. • The board held a second reading of a proposed change in board policy, modifying the wording regarding when meetings would be held. Following the reading, a motion to approve this change was passed. • Cooper announced that May 25 will be the annual Alexander City Schools retirement breakfast, as well as graduation ceremonies for Benjamin Russell High School. He also said the city schools’ summer feeding program had been awarded a silver award by the Alabama Department of Education. Lastly, board member Dorothea Walker was recognized for being reappointed to the board Monday night by the city council. • At the end of the meeting, the board went into executive session to continue discussing a personnel matter. Upon returning from executive session, the board said the matter would be taken under advisement and the board will be conducting research regarding the topic. The next meeting of the Alexander City Board of Education will be Tuesday, May 15, beginning at 5 p.m. in the board room of the Alexander City Board of Education Building.
LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com
Page 10
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Sports Outlook The
SECOND SEASON
Thursday, April 19, 2018
JOE MCADORY Columnist
Resentment in my youth morphed into respect as the years passed by
I
Reeltown, Horseshoe Bend begin playoff journeys By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
Both Horseshoe Bend and Reeltown’s baseball teams will face a battle in the opening round of the Class 2A state playoffs, which begin Friday. After earning the runner up spot in Area 8, Horseshoe Bend (15-10) will travel to Ariton, the winner of Area 8. In order to earn the top spot in its area, Ariton had to defeat defending state champion G.W. Long, and Reeltown (19-11) will face none other than that defending champ. “They are the defending state champion, but you gotta face them sometime,” Reeltown coach Mike Jones said. “You can’t control who you gotta play. Those are things you can’t worry about. Those were already decided, so you gotta play who shows up.” The Rebels of G.W. Long boast an 21-10 record and are ranked No. 5 in the final Alabama Sports Writers Association poll. “They’re always well coached,” Jones said. “Coach (Andrew) Miller does a great job with them. They’re fundamentally sound and always have good pitching.” Reeltown isn’t sure what it’s going to do with its pitchers just yet, but four different players could get the nod to start the bestof-three series. Logan Hunt has done quite a bit of work for the Rebels this year, but Jones said he’s been working his pitching rotation all season in preparation for a three-game series. Walks have been the Achilles’ heel for the Rebel pitchers this year as well as some untimely errors here and there, but offensively, Reeltown is hoping to soar. “Offensively, I expect Landon Hunt, Logan Hunt, Ardarious Woods and Hayden Solomon to be some big hitters,” Jones said. “Those are all seniors outside of Logan, so I’m going to rely on some of those older kids that have been through it to lead us in these playoff games.” One nice thing for both Reeltown and Horseshoe Bend is they’ve both been off since they met each other in Friday’s regular season finale, meaning they’ve both gotten some much-needed practice time, which can be hard to come by in the busy spring season. “We’ve been doing a lot of fundamentals
File / The Outlook
Top: Reeltown’s Nelson Whaley, right, grabs a popup against Horseshoe Bend earlier this season while second baseman Ardarious Woods backs him up. Above: Horseshoe Bend first baseman Cade Worthy gets into his defensive stance.
this week and getting back to the basics,” Jones said. “Hopefully we’ve been working the errors out. It’s been mental errors as much as physical for us, so we’ve worked all week so far just trying to cut down on the mental and physical errors and make routine plays.” Horseshoe Bend coach Jason Johnson said, “We are confident. It’s been a really good thing to get some time to practice, so we’re getting to work on some things that we haven’t had time to work on in a while, both offensively and defensively. And it’s been two pretty good days of practice so far.” Johnson expects the Generals’ series with Ariton (18-8) to be an offensive showdown, saying the Purple Cats score a lot of runs but they also allow quite a few. “We’ve gotta keep swinging the bats well,” Johnson said. “In the last week of the season, we’ve hit it better than we have all year. If we can win somewhere in the 9-8 range, that would be good for us. (Ariton) is pretty good, but they’re
definitely beatable; you’re just going to have to play pretty well to beat them.” The top of the lineup has been extremely strong for Horseshoe Bend lately with leadoff batter Chandler Lewis batting right around .500 on the season. If Lewis can get on, Johnson hopes guys like Cade Worthy, Lee Norrell, Jace Rodriguez and Grant Taylor will help move him around and score some runs. Taylor is expected to pitch Game 1 with Rodriguez coming in for the second game. “With Grant also catching, it’s hard to catch then come in to pitch,” Johnson said. “So the plan right now is to go with Grant in Game 1, get as many innings as we can out of him and go from there with Jace on for Game 2. That plan may change before Friday though.” Horseshoe Bend’s series begins Friday with a doubleheader starting at 4:30 p.m., then an if-necessary game scheduled for noon Saturday. Reeltown will host its Friday doubleheader starting at 2 p.m., then will play Saturday at 3 p.m. if necessary.
Early lead propels Reeltown to victory vs. Tigers Dadeville did not notch a hit until the fourth inning and didn’t score until the seventh. In the After scoring three runs in the meantime, Reeltown added a first inning, Reeltown’s softball pair of insurance runs, but the Tigers finally broke the shutout team held off Dadeville for almost the entirety of Tuesday’s in the top of the final frame. Pearl Huff singled to lead off, game, eventually capturing a and Zoe Veres sent her home 5-2 victory. with a double. Veres advanced It didn’t look promising for to third on a groundout before the Rebels in the bottom of the scoring on a passed ball. first, as after a leadoff walk by Dadeville managed only Morgan McGuire, Reeltown two hits in addition to Huff put two straight outs on the and Veres’ knocks in the board. But then the Rebels bats seventh inning. Isis Johnson came alive. Kelsey Jaye got and Quanesha Presley each had things going with a single to singles. score one run, and Katlyn Jaye Reeltown ace Ayriana followed with a single of her Stoneback was too much to own. Courtesy runner Peyton handle, as she fanned 13 batters. Ledbetter put the second run on the board by stealing home, and She was backed by an offense that Makenzie Baker then laced a line produced 13 hits, including two drive to right field, reaching first apiece from Katlyn Jaye, Kelsey Jaye, Baker and Marlee Knox. base and plating another score. STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
The offense was led by Sierra Easterwood who went 5-for-8 with a home run and Only three hits and seven a staggering six RBIs. Ashton errors were the recipe for Fielding and Ashlyn Perrin also disaster for Horseshoe Bend’s softball team Tuesday in a 12-0 had shots over the fence. Fielding and Meredith loss to Elmore County. After a scoreless first inning, McClellan each had four hits apiece, while Loren Bishop and the Panthers took off with at Kristen Tolbert each notched least three runs over the next three singles. three innings. The Generals’ Amber Parker plated three only hits were singles from runs. Hannah Adcock, Ivy Vickers In the first game, Easterwood and Abby Cheatam, and only two of Elmore County’s 12 runs went the distance, allowing seven hits and only four earned were earned. runs. Although she walked four, CACC sweeps Bevill State she also struck out three. Amber Parker and Taylor Central Alabama Community College’s bats came alive, as the Phillips combined in the Game 2 victory. Parker went four Trojans racked up 24 hits in a innings, giving up three hits and doubleheader sweep of Bevill striking out four. Phillips threw State on Tuesday afternoon. the final three innings of no-hit They picked up 7-5 and 9-2 softball. victories.
Horseshoe Bend falters against Elmore County
grew up despising Larry Bird. Kevin McHale and Danny Ainge, too. Those pesky Celtics were often the only team standing in the way of my Lakers’ perennial NBA championship. Darrell Waltrip always got on my nerves when I was a teenager. His wisecracking smart mouth, cocky attitude, followed by told-you-so success on the NASCAR tracks earned my ire. I wanted him to lose badly. I was even giddy the afternoon he crashed hard in the 1983 Daytona 500. Yes, that was wrong. Then there’s Steve Grogan … veteran quarterback of the New England Patriots in the 1970s and 1980s. Those Patriots were playoff-caliber then, too. Grogan often found a way to beat my Dolphins and spoiled a few Sunday afternoons in the process. I wanted A.J. Duhe to plant him to the turf on every play. Joe Theismann wasn’t my favorite, either. He had a cocky persona. I try to forget Super Bowl XVII. Let’s move on. Then there’s the New York Yankees, presumably God’s gift to Major League Baseball. OK, so they’ve won more World Series than Alabama football has won national championships, but some of us grew tired of national media glorifying the men in pinstripes. Vince Dooley and Herschel Walker were two of my least favorite names in the early 1980s. Growing up a Florida Gator (I lived in Daytona Beach, so I didn’t know any better back then), that duo dominated the SEC while the Gators limped into the Tangerine, Peach and now-defunct Bluebonnet bowls. I took grew pleasure in Penn State’s Todd Blackledge and Curt Warner ruining Georgia’s bid for a 1982 national championship in a tight Sugar Bowl. Resentment. Borderline hate. Both fueled by a common denominator: success. When you’re young, it’s easy to resent a person, an athlete or sports franchise, simply based on their own achievements. It’s a naïve way of thinking. Wisdom teaches another philosophy: To be the man, you’ve got to beat the man. Yes, I’m quoting the legendary philosopher Ric Flair. Another great philosopher, Michael Corleone, teaches, “It’s not personal. It’s business.” Herschel Walker running over a Florida defensive back wasn’t a personal attack on me. It just seemed like it. Dooley instructing quarterback Buck Belue to find receiver Lindsay Scott wasn’t an evil scheme to devastate Joe McAdory’s weekend. I had to learn this over time. Today, I love watching old re-runs of Bird, McHale, Robert Parish, Ainge and those old Celtics. I appreciate textbook basketball and they played it masterfully. Plus, old highlights take me back to my youth, a golden era of sports I appreciate more each day. I didn’t like Grogan, but watching NFL Films featuring those old Patriots remind me of great games and great players back in the day. Plus, I have grown to admire Grogan’s gamesmanship and leadership. Not only do I appreciate these players’ skills possessed, I simply loving watching classic games or races. For an afternoon, I can relax, watch a NASCAR race from Bobby Allison’s championship season on YouTube, and relive the days when the outcome of a sporting event dictated my emotions for the rest of the week. Whether the players are my favorite, or least favorite, I take pleasure in knowing I got to watch some of the greatest athletes and teams perform. You’ve got to respect talent. You’ve got to respect the ability to build a dynasty and maintain one. But I can’t respect Darrell Waltrip. Joe McAdory is Communications Editor at Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business.
SPORTS CALENDAR Thursday, April 19 High school softball Benjamin Russell at Beauregard, 4:30 p.m. Elmore County at Reeltown, 6 p.m. High school golf Benjamin Russell at Sylacauga, 2 p.m. College baseball Lawson State at Central Alabama (2), 2 p.m.