OPINION: A SPECIAL CHRISTMAS GIFT FROM DAD
THE
DEEALS G DEALS GALORE! ALORE! See Classifieds, pg. 9.
TUESDAY
WILDCATS OPEN LAKE MARTIN SLAM FEST. PG. 12
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892 December 29, 2015
Vol. 123, No. 259
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Two hurt in Sunday shooting Altercation at Dadeville convenience store ends in gunfire, two men shot
Water continues to rise Heavy rains leave area soaked with water rising
By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer
A Christmas Eve/Christmas Day weather system left the local area soaked and lake levels elevated, but caused no major flooding, according to county emergency management authorities. “We suffered some washed out roadways and culverts,” said Jason Moran, director of the Tallapoosa County Emergency Management Agency. “Most of those were in the southern portion of the county, but there was one in Camp Hill. Most of those have also been repaired. “We also had some minor flooding. Our county engineer is out this morning doing a preliminary assessment that’s associated with the governor’s (emergency) declaration and we may know additional details after that.” Cliff Williams / The Outlook Gov. Robert Bentley’s declaration “directed all state agencies to take neces- Runoff from rain has damaged area roadways like the the bridge on Hays Mill Road across Saugahatchee sary actions to be prepared to respond to Creek, above and the culvert on Holley Mill Road in Elmore County just south of Highway 229 was also out See WATER • Page 3 due to excessive rain.
Police caught doing a good deed for cyclist
Pedestrian struck by vehicle
At a time when police officers in some places have been the subject of negative headlines after incidents where their service and behavior were questioned, two Alexander City Police officers have been called out by the community for doing a good thing. Several Outlook readers submitted pictures late last week Submitted / The Outlook after ACPD officers Benjamin Alexander City Police officers Benjamin Whitley and Robert Cuilligan stop to help Whitley and Robert Culligan a cyclist peddling along Highway 280 Thursday in a driving rain. Motorists caught were spotted on the side of this image of the officers giving the man a bag of food and reported the good deed See DEED • Page 11 to The Outlook.
The Alexander City Police Department is investigating an accident where a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle late Thursday on Washington Street near the Dobbs subdivision. According to Alexander City Police Chief Willie G. Robinson, a 55-year-old male was walking along Washington Street when he was struck by a 2008 Hyundai that was traveling northbound. “The circumstances are still unclear,” Robinson said. “It
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An altercation at a Dadeville convenience store early Sunday morning ended with gunfire and two people suffering from gunshot wounds. Dadeville Police Chief David Barbour said that officers were called to the Citgo convenience store at 18363 Highway 280 at 1:30 a.m. Sunday morning. The call was reported as several subjects fighting in front of the store. When officers arrived they found two individuals suffering gunshot injuries. “Information gathered on the scene suggests that during the fight, two individuals began shooting at each other in the crowd,” Barbour said. “Preliminary indications are that the two that were injured were bystanders who got caught up in the gunfire.” According to Barbour, Laquez Maurice Minniefield, 23, of Camp Hill was transported to Lake Martin Community Hospital then air lifted to Baptist South Hospital in Montgomery where he is listed in stable condition. A second subject Ladarrian Hardnett, 18, of Alexander City was transported by private vehicle to Russell Medical Center where he was treated and released. Barbour said they are still unsure what might have touched off the initial altercation. Officers from the Tallapoosa See SHOOTING • Page 11
Today’s
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65 56 High
Low
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Page 2
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Mom worries that kids get attention only for their looks
Wednesday
63 49 Low
High
Mostly cloudy, 100 percent chance of rain
Thursday
58 39 Low
High
Partly sunny, 20 percent chance of showers
Staff
Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Kenneth Boone Publisher, Ext. 218 kenneth.boone@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 Accounting Angela Mullins Bookkeeping, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Mary Lyman Boone Bookkeeping marylyman.boone@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Robert Hudson Sports Editor, Ext. 228 robert.hudson@alexcityoutlook.com Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com
David Granger Staff Writer, Ext. 210 david.granger@alexcityoutlook.com Mia Osborn Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 mia.osborn@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Kim Morse Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 kim.morse@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Guill Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.guill@alexcityoutlook.com Composing Audra Spears Composing Department, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Alethia Russell Graphic Artist, Ext. 231 alethia.russell@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Asst. Circulation Manager, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) Lake magazine, The Outlook is published five times Lake Martin Living, a week, Tuesday through Saturday Kenneth Boone mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, Photography and a commercial web Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box printing press. 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.
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Information
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
The Outlook
© 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
DEAR ABBY: All children are beautiful to their parents. My three children are of mixed race and get a lot of attention because of it. The boys are aloof about random compliments they receive from strangers. However, I’m worried about the pressure it may put on my daughter to be “pretty.” I care more about my daughter’s character than her looks, but I’m concerned that if I say that to these people, it will come off as rude. Also, I don’t want her to think I don’t think she’s pretty. How can I respond in a way that isn’t rude to well-intentioned strangers, but at the same time allows me to make a statement about the importance of character over beauty? -- MOM OF BEAUTIES DEAR MOM: When someone exclaims that your child is beautiful, accept the compliment and say something like this: “Yes, my child IS beautiful, but more
Obituaries
DEAR ABBY Advice
important, she is beautiful on the inside.” It will reinforce the message to your daughter that character is equally, if not more important, than physical beauty. DEAR ABBY: Isn’t the rule of etiquette that when a gift is given, it belongs to the recipient? My mother sends gifts to our infant daughter. She is the first grandbaby, and my mother is a doting grandparent. My question is what should happen when my child outgrows the items -- clothing, shoes, toys, etc. My mother expects me to put them all in a storage bin and return them to her.
There have been times when I have packed up things to give to friends who have younger daughters than ours, or taken them to a resale shop. My mother then becomes upset that I’m not returning the items to her. She is saving them for my sister, who isn’t even pregnant yet. While I have no issue with saving some things for a potential niece, my friends need these things NOW, and I feel strange essentially being obligated to return them. Is my mom out of line? It’s off-putting to receive a gift that comes with a return clause. -- CONFUSED IN CENTRAL TEXAS DEAR CONFUSED: It appears your mother is not only a doting grandma, but also someone who is determined to get a double bang for her buck. Once given, a gift DOES belong to the recipient. Otherwise, it’s not a gift but a loan. And yes, however well-
husband Allen Claybrook; sons, William Allen Claybrook Jr. and James Grady Claybrook; daughFuneral service ter Cynthia for Mrs. Barbara McDaniel Ann Claybrook, 69, three grandof Sylacauga will children. be Wednesday, Pallbearers December 30, are Dan 2015 at 11:00 McClellan, a.m at the North Kyle Chapel of Curtis McClellan, and Son Funeral John Bonner, Home. Burial will Sandy Davis, follow in Evergreen Claybrook Bruce Lee Cemetery. The famand Eric ily will receive family and Gross. friends at North Chapel, Online condolences December 29, 2015 from can be sent at www. 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. curtisandsonfh.com North She is survived by her Chapel directing.
Funeral arrangements for Mrs. Geneva Woods and Mr. Henry Joseph Barry Barefield will be held Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. at Goodwater High School Gymnasium. Pastor Henry Sterling, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow at Hollins Springs Baptist Church Cemetery in Hollins. Public viewing will be held Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at Zion Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. Zion Memorial Funeral Home of Sylacauga directing (256) 245-1454. Alabama’s Premiere Funeral Directors.
Mrs. Lula Purter Mrs. Lula Purter of Alexander City, Alabama died December 26. 2015 and arrangements will be announced later by Wrights Funeral Home.
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Lisa Jeanine Ward God above delivered a very special angel to Bill and Jeanette Ward on February 3, 1958 when Lisa Jeanine Ward was born. That little girl would come to personify sweetness and kindness and love for her family. It is strangely ironic that on Christmas day she would be Ward carried by the angels to heaven. There to greet this very shy young lady would be her mother, Jeanette, who had preceded her to heaven several weeks
Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
ago on November 20th. Lisa would grow to be a sweet spirit in her family who loved her collection of dolls, a pastime that she would carry throughout her entire life. High on her list of favorite things, also, would be collecting seashells on her treasured trips to the beach. Lisa is survived by her father, William Terrell “Bill” Ward, her siblings Brian Ward and his fiancé Sharon Boyd, Carol Ward and Daniel Garland, Deanna and Herschel Davis and Melinda Ward. Lisa’s sweet life will
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be lovingly remembered on Monday, December 28, 2015 at a service to be held at 2:00 p.m. Central Time at The Liberty United Methodist Church. The family will welcome friends and family beginning at 1:00 PM. Following the service, she will be interred in the historic church cemetery which is the resting place of so many of her Martin relatives. In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that memorial contributions may be made in her memory to The Liberty United Methodist Church 1630 Liberty Road Goodwater, AL 35072. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mckoon. com.
SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law
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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.
Funeral service for Mr. Aaron Lee Nelson, 27, of Ashland, will be Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the Rock Springs Baptist Church. Mr. Nelson will lie in state for one hour prior to the service time. Rev. Jimmy Nelson will officiate. Burial will follow in the Rock Springs Cemetery, Clay County. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
and Your Loved Ones!
YOUR MONEY COULDN’T BUY MORE 5BR/3.5BA lake home in Windermere West. Open family room w/18ft. celings, fireplace, hardwood floors, eat-in kitchen, formal DR.
DEAR ABBY: When I’m dining out, sometimes the flatware is wrapped and banded in a large paper napkin. Do I use this napkin for cleaning myself, or do I ask for more napkins? -UNSURE IN CONNECTICUT DEAR UNSURE: Place the napkin in your lap, and if you would like to have more, do not hesitate to ask your server. It is not a breach of etiquette to do so.
Mr. Aaron Lee Nelson 1988-2015
Mrs. Barbara Ann Claybrook
Mrs. Geneva Woods and Mr. Henry Joseph Barry Barefield
intentioned your mother may be, she is out of line to demand that everything she has given be returned to her. (I mean, what will she do if your sister has only boys?)
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Since 1884, The Alex City Outlook has been a part of the area longer than any other business. Our mission is to report local community news, keep our readers informed and help businesses grow through marketing & advertising.
256.234.4281 • 548 Cherokee Road • Alexander City, AL w w w. a l e x c i t y o u t l o o k . c o m
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Water
The Outlook
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 3
continued from page 1
the anticipated flooding across Alabama. We will actively monitor the flooding, and are prepared to respond to any requests for assistance,” according to a press release issued Friday by Bentley’s office. Since noon on Wednesday, Dec. 23, Alexander City has received a total of 4.59 inches of rainfall at Russell Airport, including 1.59 inches on Monday, according to the city’s Department of Public Works. Public Works also reported that as of Monday, the only emergency call they had received was a downed tree limb that was causing issues in the city. Lake Martin is a different story. Since Monday, Dec. 21, the level of Lake Martin at Martin Dam has risen from 480.23 feet to 486.06 yesterday. That dramatic jump has forced Alabama Power to take precautions at area dams. Alabama Power opened spillway gates at its Coosa and Tallapoosa river dams to help manage rising lake levels. Two storage reservoirs on the Coosa – Weiss Lake and Lake Logan Martin – and two storage reservoirs on the Tallapoosa – Harris Lake and Lake Martin – were well above normal seasonal levels. Alabama Power reported spillway gates operating locally at Yates and Thurlow dams on the Tallapoosa on Christmas Day. The same was true at Neely Henry, Logan Martin, Lay, Mitchell and Jordan dams on the Coosa. According to Moran, rainfall received throughout the county ranged from 3.5 inches to 7.4 inches between Dec. 21 and Dec. 26 with the highest totals being received in the southern portion of the county near Reeltown. Moran said that as of Monday morning, two roads in the southern part of the county remained closed – South Mosses Flat, where a culvert had washed out, and Hayes Mill Road, where a bridge had washed out. Finley Road required a repair over the weekend, but is currently open. However, the potential for damage in the county had not passed completely, Moran said. A limited risk of tornadoes and damaging straight-line winds up to 60 miles-anhour as well as isolated flash flooding existed as yet another system of rain and thunderstorms approached the area from the west. “Around 2 p.m. we could see some thunderstorms with some wind,” Moran said. “Those have the potential to cause downed trees and limbs
and, as a result, downed power lines. The ground here is so saturated that strong winds or tornadoes would cause us serious problems.” The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory that was effective in Alexander City until 6 p.m. last night. As of Monday evening, Alex City had experienced periods of heavy rain and some winds, but no severe weather and had seen few, if any, additional weatherrelated problems arise. In fact, no severe weather had been reported in the state on Monday at that time. Moran urged residents who don’t have a NOAA weather radio to get one and said those with weather radios should ensure the batteries are fresh so they are able to stay up to date on any weather watches or warnings. He also said that residents should have a pre-designated place to shelter in the event that weather warrants it. Finally, Moran said that residents should call 911 in the event of any weather-related emergency or the EMA office at 256825-1078. Residents who find themselves with nonemergency needs are urged to call 211. “We also want folks to remember that, if you see water on the roadway, you can’t tell how deep it is. They should remember the saying, ‘Turn around,
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
The Tallapoosa River was still out of its banks, top, at Germany Ferry Sunday afternoon while Elmore County officials have to figure out how to repair a culvert and water pipes on Holley Mill Road.
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COMBINED STATEMENT OF REVENUES, EXPENDITURES AND CHANGES IN ALL FUND BALANCE ALL GOVERNMENTAL FUND TYPES, EXPENDABLE TRUST AND AGENCY FUNDS OCTOBER 1, 2014 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2015 TALLAPOOSA COUNTY COMMISSION – UNAUDITED
MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213
editor@alexcityoutlook.com
EDITORIAL BOARD Kenneth Boone Mitch Sneed
Outlook The
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Page 4
Our
Opinion Tallapoosa proves again to have a big heart
O
ne of the challenges that parents face today is how to encourage their children to get involved. We struggle with illustrating to them just how they can have their voices heard and make a difference. Fortunately, across Tallapossa County we experienced several examples of people helping people during the holiday season that could serve as perfect examples for our young people. Countless businesses and individuals participated in the annual Angel Tree program, where children that may have gone without at Christmas were helped by donors who adopted them. Gifts were provided so that when they awoke on Christmas Day they had an incredible surprise awaiting. Shop with a Cop is one of the programs that The Outlook features annually. To see the joy that children get from being able to shop with one of our first responders is always fun to cover. The program wouldn’t be possible without the help of the countless donors who gave along the way. There was a community dinner held Christmas Day at Comer Street Baptist Church where anyone who wanted a great, hot meal was welcomed with open arms by volunteers at the church. The church has been hosting the dinner for years, but it is always touching to see so many people giving up part of their holiday to help others. Today we featured the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Drive and the way that local folks again dug deep to help others. It serves as a constant when thinking of Christmas giving and it was great to see that so many did their part again this year. It’s obvious that some children were already in the giving spirit. Several local schools hosted canned food drives that were spearheaded by children and there were toy collections by Camp Fire Girls and Scouts. We have said it time and time again that Tallapoosa County has a big heart. To see again this holiday season how people from all walks of life answered the call with generosity to others only proved that to be the case again.
Know Your
Officials Communication with elected officials is the key to good government. To let your most local representatives know how you feel about state or local matters, contact any of the following. Governor Robert Bentley represents the state of Alabama and its 67 counties. He was elected to office on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334242-7100. His office is located at the State Capitol at 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama.
Robert Bentley Luther Strange was elected Alabama’s 49th Attorney General first elected in 2010, and serves as the State’s chief law enforcement officer. He can be reached at 334242-7300, and his office is located at 501 Washington Avenue, Luther Strange Montgomery. Mark Tuggle (R) represents the 81st District covering Coosa, Chilton and Tallapoosa counties. He can be reached by phone at 256-392-2006 or by email at tughd81@ gmail.com. His office is located at 110 Mark Tuggle Calhoun Street, Suite 108, Alexander City. Tom Whatley represents the 27th District covering Lee, Russell and Tallapoosa County. He was elected to the Alabama Senate on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334-242-t7865. Tom Whatley His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn.
P
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
A special Christmas gift from Dad
eople tell me that I am a tough person to buy gifts for because I really don’t want too much. On top of that, the things that I do want, I normally try to find a way to buy it throughout the year. So each year before Christmas, my kids and other always ask what I want as a gift. I normally tell them cologne, a tool of some sort or maybe a gadget to make work a little easier. This year when the question came, I was ready. I have an addiction. I am addicted to vehicles. I love to tinker with old cars and trucks and anything with an engine. My addiction has gotten to the point where I was told that my yard looked more like a used car lot than it did a front lawn. At last count, I had seven vehicles, two boats a Sea Doo and a lawn tractor that call my house home. So with all these cars, trucks and gas burning things come keys – lots and lots of keys. In an effort to reduce the size of the key ring that looks like the one toted by a school janitor and makes me walk leaned over to the side, I remembered a key holder that my mother used to have. It was called a key caddy and looked like a little wallet that had hooks and held keys. I told all who asked that I’d love to have one and even
MITCH SNEED Outlook Editor
drew a picture to explain it for one person. I was a lucky man this Christmas. My family and friends were so good to me. I got clothes, gift cards, tools, salsa, a barbecue light, a router, a drone that takes pictures, all sorts of smell-good, chocolate-covered cherries, music CDs and even a gift certificate for a new car stereo for my convertible. Talk about blessed – I truly was this year. “I tried to find you one of those key things, but I couldn’t find one anywhere,” my daughter said. “No big deal, you all did way too much for me any way,” I said. I was talking with my father-in-law about the key holder and you could see the wheels spinning. “I think I may have one of those somewhere that I have never used,” he said. A few minutes later he came back into the room with the key caddy in hand. I was so excited. I got home and went to work organizing. It was great. I was so thankful. Back at home later that night, I started the painstaking task of putting all the
Christmas decorations away. In moving boxes to try to figure out what held Christmas decor and what was just stuff, I opened the lid on a copier paper box. It was a box full of random stuff, including old VCR tapes, and odds and ends that had belonged to my mom and dad. There amongst the hodge-podge was a key caddy with the tag still hanging from one of the hooks. I couldn’t believe it and the excitement turned to chills as I pulled open the snap. Inside I found this in elegant gold-embossed letters: R.J. SNEED, 1988 OUTSTANDING EMPLOYEE – CSX Operations. I couldn’t believe it. I never knew that he had gotten any awards. He would have never said a word about it anyway. But what are the chances of finding it on Christmas Day, after I had been saying I wanted one. Dad died on July 10, 2011 at the age of 82 and here more than four years later he sent me a gift. Just like him. He always took good care of us and made sure we had what we needed, but I never expected it to happen like that. Talk about putting a cap on a perfect Christmas – that did the trick. Mitch Sneed is the editor of The Outlook.
Today’s
Quote
“There are many ways of going forward, but only one way of standing still.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
Today’s
Scripture “You will live in joy and peace.The mountains and hills will burst into song, and the trees of the field will clap their hands.” – Isaiah 55:12
alexcityoutlook.com
Daily Poll Weekend Question: Do you plan to make any New Years resolutions?
Yes - 12 No - 4
Tuesday Question: Have you ever attended a City Council meeting?
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.
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2016 resolutions: Federal government, go first
I
f you think our benevolent federal government is too big, this will agitate you: The government is advising us on New Year's resolutions. About USA.gov, the government's official web portal, offers a dozen recommendations. First up, the government wants us to resolve to lose weight next year. Hey, federal government, maybe if you'd stop subsidizing the sugar and high-sucrose corn syrup industries — empty calories that the human body turns into instant fat — we surely wouldn't be so tubby. Here's another recommended resolution: eat healthy food — though this recommendation is more of a demand for some. Just ask school kids across America, whose school lunches must follow government-mandated requirements — frequently resulting in awful-tasting grub — or their school districts will not receive government dough. That brings us to another recommended resolution: save money. That's a good one, federal government! Our national debt is nearly $19 trillion — it's more than tripled since George W. Bush became president in 2001. The budget deal just passed by our Republican Congress is packed with enough lard to cause a national cardiac arrest. If anyone needs to resolve to save money, it's you. Which brings us to a resolution our government knows plenty about: manage debt. Did I mention our national debt is
TOM PURCELL Guest Columnist
nearly $19 trillion? Did I mention how rapidly it has grown? I didn't mention that our political leaders are doing little to address the problem. Or that we will be in a world of hurt when interest rates are restored to normal levels and our debt-service payments will soar. Here's another resolution: get a better education. Hey, great idea, federal government. An education is the way forward. However, your policies could use some adjustments. Every time you make more student loan money available, the cost of college goes up. It's risen three times faster than inflation and created a massive studentloan bubble over the past few decades. Today, nearly 37 million Americans owe roughly $1 trillion total in student-loan debt — most of it federal studentloan debt. The informational nonprofit American Student Assistance says the average student-loan balance stands at around $24,300. Here's another recommended resolution: get fit. I couldn't agree more with this one, federal government. Now that you have butted into the private health insurance system — now that I have to pay significantly
higher premiums to cover things I don't want or need — I had to switch to a high-deductible policy. The more fit I am, the less likely I will face costly outof-pocket health costs. That brings us to another recommendation: manage stress. Hey, federal government, I was managing stress just fine until you borrowed trillions and disrupted our private health insurance system, causing millions to lose their policies and pay lots more. In order to manage stress, I need to manage you, so I sent Republicans to represent me in the House and Senate and they just passed a spending bill that is so packed with pork, it would have caused Democrats to blush. In other words, I am unable to manage the source of my stress. Which brings us to two related resolutions: quit smoking and drink less alcohol. Hey, federal government, smoking premium cigars is the only thing that relaxes me these days — which is why the FDA is eager to regulate them, no doubt. The government wants to “improve” cigars the way it “improved” our health care system? Which brings us to alcohol, federal government. I figure that as long as you spend our money like a drunken sailor, you are making me drink like one. So let's make a deal, federal government: I'll agree to your New Year's resolutions — but only if you go first.
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 50 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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Tuesday, December 29, 2015
The Outlook
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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/. ebrating an anniversary today.
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Steve “Cubbie� Culberson, Harriet Hayes Dodd, Clara Baker, Carrie Leigh Smith, and Yvonne Hunter are celebrating birthdays today.
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Adam Crabb, shown above, and The Griffith Family will be the featured performers at a gospel singing at Hillabee Baptist Church on Jan. 17 at 6 p.m. December 28-30
COMMUNITY FEEDING: The Alexander City Schools Nutrition Program will be feeding children and adults at the Stephens Elementary School cafeteria Dec. 28-30 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The meal is free for children and $3 for adults. There will also be activities for children.
January 6
256.234.3481 KarenChannell.com
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
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Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
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MONTHLY LUNCHEON: The Bibb Graves School in Millerville is hosting its monthly luncheon Jan. 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring a covered dish.
January 10
HAIR AND FASHION SHOW: Gloria Boleware celebrates 37 years of service with a community hair and fashion show Jan. 10 at 3 p.m. at Passion Church on Highway 63. It will feature Hair 4 Daze, Dea Love’ Reesie Williams, Adrian Young, Team Katlin,Sharmaine Stowes, Nalarence Davis Show Models, GoGetters, Marilyn Owens, Lebron Spradley and the Grande Finale Charlene Benton.
January 16
TRADE DAY: The Bibb Graves School in Millerville is hosting Trade Day Jan. 16 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
January 17
GOSPEL SINGING: Hillabee Baptist Church will host a gospel singing and concert with Adam Crabb and The Griffith Family Jan. 17 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A love offering will be taken.
January 21
WINE TASTING: Emporium Wine will host a wine tasting event from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 128 Calhoun Street, Alexander City. There is no charge for this event. PUBLIC MEETING: The Tallapoosa County Commission/ Emergency Management Agency is scheduling a public meeting on January 21 at 10 a.m. to update its Hazard Mitigation Plan. The meeting will take place at the Tallapoosa County Courthouse, Dadevile in the Extension Auditorium downstairs. the public, private non-profits, municipalities, school board, universities/colleges, utility/water/sewer boards, fire departments, and elected officials are among those invited and encouraged to attend. participation is required in order to apply for federal hazard mitigation grants in the future.
January 22
MARDI GRAS AUCTION: St. James Episcopal Church will host live and silent auctions at this inaugural event to support the Feast of Sharing ministry, which provides free meals twice a week at First United Methodist Church to some 100 people in need. Auction items will include original art, a Russell Marine wakeboarding package, framed photography by Kenneth Boone, handmade pottery items, a vacation at the beach for the whole family, the Rev. Rob Iler’s handyman services for a day and more. There will be beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages, hors d’oeuvres, desserts and entertainment. Tickets are $25 per person and can be reserved by calling St. James Episcopal Church at 256-234-4752. For information, contact Heidi Ross at 256-794-7010 or Susan Mange at 601-431-8239.
FREE SPEECH AND HEARING SCREENING: The Auburn University NSSLHA and SAA are having a free speech and hearing screening Friday, January 22 from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.. No appointment is necessary. All children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Please note that very young or handicapped individuals may not be able to respond to the speech hearing screening and may require a more formal evaluation at a later appointment date. Services will be provided by the Auburn University Speech and Hearing Clinic Room 1199 Haley Center.
Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. until noon. Completion of the program depends on the skill level of the individual. For more information contact Elaine Balint, instructor, at 256-215-4496 (leave message) or ebalint@cacc. edu. OFFICE CAREERS: The Office Careers Technology program is funded by the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and was created to help dislocated workers learn new employable skills. To qualify for the programs be a dislocated worker (layoff) or a low income family. Anyone interested in the classes should contact the Alexander City Career Center @ 256215-4494 and ask about the WIOA January 23 program. Most all dislocated workBINGO NIGHT: Bibb Graves ers automatically qualify for financial School in Millerville is hosting family assistance. bingo night Jan. 23 from 5 p.m. to 8 The program is 52 weeks and is p.m. open entry/open exit. Students learn TRASH WALK: The next PATH Trash Walk is scheduled for Saturday, at their own pace in a non-traditional classroom setting. Classes begin January 23 at 9:00 AM. We will meet when students are approved and at the fountain in front of Jake’s they may leave when they receive Restaurant to receive supplies and assignments. Come out and join your any or all of the certificates offered. Classes are Monday--Thursday, 8:00 friends and neighbors for a healthy a.m.--3:00 p.m. (with a lunch break). walk while removing unsightly litter All textbooks and class materials are from the roadways of the “most scenic� county in Alabama. For additional supplied. Certificates available are receptioninformation contact John Thompson ist, inventory clerk, data entry clerk, at jthompson@lmra.info administrative assistant, accounting office clerk, medical office clerk, legal January 25 office clerk. HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Steve CELEBRATE Flowers will be the speaker for RECOVERY: Celebrate Recovery is Horizons Unlimited Jan. 25 at the a Christ-centered ministry designed Alexander City Board of Education to help hurting people. It is made up from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. of regular folks who are on a journey toward wholeness; seeking recovery February 1 from life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups. HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Dr. We meet every Monday at Vertical Mark Conversino will be the speaker Point Church, 860 Airport Drive, Alex for Horizons Unlimited Feb. 1 at the City. We begin with dinner at 5:45, Alexander City Board of Education followed by large group at 6:15 & from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. small groups at 7:15. Childcare is provided. Everyone is welcome. For February 8 more info, call Mike at 256-496-4664. HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Troy BEYOND TRANSFORMATIONS: Jones will be the speaker for Horizons Meetings every second Saturday. Unlimited Feb. 8 at the Alexander City Have you been wanting to give Board of Education from 1:30 p.m. to back, work with youth, or be a part 3 p.m. of a group that makes a difference? Please email iamtransforms@ gmail.com or Call at 334-440February 22 6539. Donations of clothes, food, HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Julie books, computers, school supplies. A Williams will be the speaker for building and donations are needed. Horizons Unlimited Feb. 22 at the AMERICAN LEGION: Post 339 in Alexander City Board of Education Cottage Grove is open every Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. night from 8 p.m. until with fried chicken and fish. Music from the 70s, February 29 80s, and 90s. HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Jerry SCV MEETING:The Sons of Armor will be the speaker for Confederate Veterans meets every Horizons Unlimited Feb. 29 at the third Tuesday night at 7 p.m. at J.R.’s Alexander City Board of Education Sports Bar & Grill. Visitors are welfrom 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. come. BIBLE STUDY: Come join the March 7 Auburn Woman’s Satellite Day Bible HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Susan Study Fellowship. We’re currently Webb will be the speaker for Horizons registering ladies interested in studyUnlimited March 7 at the Alexander ing Revelations. City Board of Education from 1:30 The course, study guides, semip.m. to 3 p.m. nars and lecture notes are free. This is interdenominational and open to all Ongoing Events women at Parkway Baptist Church Holliday Hall, 766 East University WOMAN MEETING: Every first Drive, Auburn. We meet on Sunday, Victory Temple Holiness Thursdays from 10 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. Church hosts a woman’s meeting, at We will love to have you there. Bible 237 Aster St. in Dadeville. Everyone knowledge is not required. Come is invited. The meeting starts at 2 p.m. learn, share, and fellowship. For furREADY TO WORK: Ready to ther information, contact Tricia at 334Work is a FREE jobs skills training 546-1386. For further information on program offered at Central Alabama Bible Study Fellowship go to www. Community College Career Center. bsfinternational.org. Classes meet Monday through
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Tuesday, December 29, 2015
The Outlook
Kids
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Lake Martin Mini Mall
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BILL WHATLEY
BROKER, CRS, GRI, ABR, SRES
OfÀce: 256-234-5163 • 800-471-LAKE
SHERIFF WE NEED YOUR HELP!! JIMMY ABBETT
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Help Stop The Drug Trade In Its Tracks!
First Realty_468 Church Street, Alexander City
(256) 825-4264
ZAXBY’S 4497 Hwy. 280 •Alexander City, AL (256) 234-2181 Hours: Fri. & Sat. 10:30-11:00
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2334 Washington St. Alexander City, AL 35010 Phone: (256) 329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
1649 Highway 22 West • Alexander City, AL 256-215-5323 We’re Just a Heart Beat Away
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DOWEE WE
Brown Nursing Home
Bass
Funeral Home and Cremations
21130 Hwy. 431 Wedowee, AL
New & Used Boats • Yamaha Waverunners Yamaha Golf Carts • Full-Service Marina & Service Center • Wet Slips & Dry Storage
256.357.2045
800.780.2045
Embroidery • Screen Printing • Signs 1218 Cherokee Road – Alexander City, AL
(256) 234-7355 www.xpressyourself.net
Ivy Creek Medical Equipment 256.825.0667
Adam’s Health & Rehab We Care About You And Your Loved Ones!
YOUR LAKE MARTIN CHEVY DEALER Full Service Tire Center • Free Estimates Parts, Service & Body Shop 17488 Hwy. 280, Dadeville, AL 256-825-4201 www.mckelveychevrolet.com
SOCIAL SECURITY of Anniston, AL 4004 US Hwy. 431
256-280-8000
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FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law 135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL
8:00-4:00 Mon.-Fri • By Appt.(Except Emergencies) 256-234-4295 • After Hours 256-329-7100
Temple Medical Clinic, P.C. YOUR FAMIY CARE CENTER Medicine, Office Surgery, Pediatric, & Industrial James P. Temple, M.D. • Timothy J. Cordin, M.D. Vincent Law, M.D.
859 Airport Drive • Alexander City, AL
Fun Carts of Opelika
618 Lee Rd. Opelika, AL 334.745.0560 • www.funcarts.net JIM HADAWAY, OWNER
Open Monday-Friday 8AM__ -6 PM Saturday 8AM-12PM (256) 215-8014
1144 Airport Drive •Alexander City
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.
(256) 329-0847
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1555 Hillabee Street Alexander City
10973 County Road 34, Dadeville www.kelleyshvac.com • AL License #99129
DRIVERS NEEDED
1725 Highway 22 West Alexander City
3000 SIGN-ON BONUS $
J&M TANK LINES, INC. jmtankjobs.com or call Jeff Sandlin @ 256-245-3933
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Auburn, AL
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HENDERSON AND COKER, INC. Mother Goose
Child Development Center Se habla español 645 Scott Road • Alexander City
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Our goal is very simple: “Complete the job in a timely manner with a customer who would ask us to do his next project.” 256.329.9001 www.hendersonandcoker.com
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DADEVILLE HEALTHCARE CENTER Kim Russell, Administrator 385 E. LaFayette St., Dadeville 256.825.9244
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
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The Outlook
Page 7
Shop Local • Eat Local • Spend Local • WIN Local By shopping & doing business locally, you are supporting the businesses who support your schools, community & home! 120 Tallapoosa Street • Alexander City, AL 35010 • 256.234.3461 www.alexandercitychamber.com
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256-234-3298 2802 Dadeville Road, Alex City, AL 35010
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Merry Christmas Tallapoosa County!
Come see what’s new on Alabama Street! 149 Alabama Street, Alexander City, AL (256) 392-5555 Closed Mondays • T-F 10-6 • Sat 10-5 “Your Of¿cial Lake Martin Chevrolet Dealer”
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc is excited to announce we’re bringing back
Santa’s Grand Cash Giveaway* Over the next four weeks we’ll be giving away up to $1,400 cash to
FOUR LUCKY READERS!
Week #1: $200 Eddie Zeigler • Week #2: $300 Merita Leonard Week #3: $400 Sarah Marbury • Week #4: $500 To enter, drop off one entry form per person, per participating business each week. That means you can have up to14 entries every week to increase your odds. Entry forms must be original newsprint and you can only submit one form at each business. (Entries must match the form corresponding to each week’s drawing and will be noted accordingly.) 256.329.9611 2 5
TANNING! MOVIES & GAMES
2006 Cherokee Road, Alexander City www.rack.myvideostore.com
Winners will be notified weekly. Best of luck to our readers, and while you’re out submitting entries each week, shop around your hometown businesses. Christmas is right around the corner and what better way to shop for family than with your neighbors. Approximately 45% of money spent at home stays at home to support local schools, community improvements and economic growth. Local dollars make local sense! The Fine Print: *only one winner per household *TPI employees and immediate family are not eligible to win. *must be 18 years of age or older and a legal resident of the United States *no reproduced or copied entries will be accepted. Only original newsprint entries eligible. *all taxes are sole responsibility of winner *TPI reserves the right to disqualify any person from participation who compromises or gives the appearance of compromising the contest. *winners must claim prize at the Tallapoosa Publishers office on Cherokee Road by 4:00 pm within two days of being notified. *winners must present photo ID to claim prize
Santa’s Grand Cash Giveaway Entry Form - Week 4 Please print clearly.
Name: Address: Phone:
Merry Christmas!
I have read and understand the conditions of entry.
Jackson Drugs (256) 234-2538
Signature: Drop this entry form off at any of the participating businesses on this page
1974 Cherokee Road, Alexander City
Keeping you safe on the road this holiday season! •ALEXANDER CITY, AL• 857 CHEROKEE ROAD (256) 215-8822
•DADEVILLE, AL• 224 E. SOUTH STREET (256) 825-8195
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The Outlook
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
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Lake & River Phone (256) 277-4219 Fax (205) 669-4217 The Alexander City Outlook
Reaching more than 22,000 households in Tallapoosa and Elmore counties The Dadeville Record
classifieds@alexcityoutlook.com public.notices@alexcityoutlook.com classifieds@thewetumpkaherald.com public.notices@thewetumpkaherald.com
The Eclectic Observer
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Needed Immediately!
PART-TIME DRIVER Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. seeks a Part-time Driver for the TPI Of¿ce in Alexander City.
JOBS
Must be able to work any shift and have a clean driving record. Please come in and ¿ll out an application at: Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. 548 Cherokee Road Alexander City, AL No Phone Calls Please Drug-free Workplace TPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer
The Wetumpka Herald
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Injured
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The Outlook
Page 11
continued from page 1
was raining and after dark and we are unsure what factors may have played a role at this time.” Robinson said the victim was taken to UAB for treatment and his condition was unknown as of Monday afternoon. “There have been no charges at this time,” Robinson said. “The accident is still under investigation and we should have more details as they become available.”
One killed in single-vehicle crash In an incident that was not reported earlier, Robinson said that a single-vehicle accident on Dec. 13 claimed the life of a local man. Robinson said that police were called to a accident on Scott Road at 10:24 a.m. They found a 1967 Ford Ranger driven by 64-year-old Barnes Harvey Smith Jr. off the road, having struck a tree, according to Robinson. “Officers arrived and found the man unresponsive,” Robinson said. “He was pronounced dead a short time later.” No further details were available.
Deed Highway 280 near Highway 63, talking with a man who was peddling a bicycle in the rain. One caller who left a message but didn’t leave a name described what she saw. “There was a man walking along 280 and he was pushing a bike and a dog was walking with him,” the caller said. “I don’t know what was happening, but several people stopped to check on him. But then I saw a police Tahoe pull in behind the man and dog. They got out of the SUV in the rain, reached out and shook his hand and handed him what looked like a bag of food. I saw them talk with him and it looked like they were making sure he was OK and then they drove off.” Reader Liz Bermingham saw the same thing, which took place at about 10 a.m. on Dec. 24 and snapped the picture shown accompanying this story. She even took the time to get the officers’ names and emailed it to The Outlook. Alexander City Police Chief Willie G. Robinson said Monday that he heard about the good deed second hand, but said he wasn’t surprised. “That’s one of those things that often times an officer may do and no one ever hears about,” Robinson said. “When I heard what they had done, I wasn’t surprised. “They are both good officers and work hard to serve people the right way. They did it and didn’t tell anyone,
Shooting
continued from page 1
that’s just the way they are and it’s the same with a lot of our officers. I only heard about it through others who told me. I’m sure they weren’t expecting any credit for it. That’s just the way they are.” Neither officer was on duty Monday to talk about the good deed, but the act of kindness also created some buzz on social media. Alexander City’s Michael Booker posted a picture and this about what he saw as he pumped gas across the street. “While pumping gas, I noticed multiple cars stop and give the man things,” Booker wrote. “Maybe money, maybe warm wishes, or maybe even prayers. Then I witnessed an Alexander City Police officer arrive on the scene. “The officer approached the man unafraid and with obvious compassion. He extended his hand and offered it to the man along with what appeared to be a bag of food. Christmas is about Christ. What I witnessed today is the obvious working of Christ through His children!” Robinson said he was glad some in the community witnessed the act. “Our guys try to do the right thing,” Robinson said. “In a situation like that, you never know what may be going on. But if you can approach it with the right attitude, it can make a world of difference. I’m proud of them for doing that in this case and that people took the time to recognize them for it.”
continued from page 1
County Sheriffs Department, Jacksons Gap and Camp Hill Police Departments assisted in the case, Barbour said. Barbour did not release the names of any suspects, citing the ongoing investigation. “We have identified one of the suspects and are working on identifying the second at this time,” Barbour said. “It is too early in the investigation to release much more than that, but we hope to have news of arrests soon.”
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Outlook The
ROBERT HUDSON SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
sports@alexcityoutlook.com
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 12
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
LAKE MARTIN SLAM FEST: DAY ONE
Wildcats shine, Tigers, Rebels fall in annual tournament openers
LUKE ROBINSON Sports Columnist
Predicting the Tide’s matchup with Sparty
O
Robert Hudson / The Outlook
Benjamin Russell’s Quen Reese (15) throws a no-look pass to teammate William Grant while Reeltown’s Eric Shaw (23) defends during Monday night’s game.
By Robert Hudson Outlook Sports Editor
The annual Lake Martin Slam Fest tipped off on Monday, as Benjamin Russell High School played host to the tournament again. Local teams and others from around the state of Alabama gathered in Alexander City for the start of the threeday event. The following is how local teams fared in day one.
Jackson 57, Dadeville 52
The Dadeville Tigers entered the fourth quarter leading, but the Jackson Aggies chipped away from the free throw line to take a 57-52 win in their opener at the Lake Martin Slam Fest. Rodney Taylor, head coach of Dadeville (4-7), said the Tigers started well, but have to do the little things better to improve moving forward. “The first half, I was very impressed. We came out and executed on both ends of the floor tremendously well and for 16 minutes we got better,” Taylor said. “But I thought pretty much the entire second half our execution was not very strong. Then, in the fourth quarter, we’ve got to learn that we do not have to speed up. We handled that same press in the first half. We’ve got to quit hurrying and rushing stuff, because when we slow down and set up the offense we’re doing pretty good.” Dadeville entered the fourth leading 45-36, but an alley oop from Darion Fail to Daron McMullen helped cut that lead to 47-42 with less than six minutes remaining. Jackson’s Brandon Phillips and Dadeville’s Qua Tucker exchanged a free throw each before McMullen scored under the basket and Demarcus Williams drained a 3-pointer for the Aggies to tie the game at 48-48 with 4:45 remaining. With the Aggies in the bonus, the game turned into a free throw shooting contest, as Fail hit a pair and Jackson’s De’Quan Mitchell went 1-of-2 from the line to extend the lead to 51-48 with two minutes left to play. Tucker added a pair of free throws to bring Dadeville closer at 51-50. The Tigers took the lead back when Isaiah Hicks got the steal off the trap defense and finished the fast break with a layup to put Dadeville up 52-51 with 1:16 remaining. Jackson’s Grady McMillian tied it up at 52-52 after hitting his first of two free throws. McMillian missed the second shot, but Jackson’s Brandon Phillips got the put back and was fouled in the process, hitting the free throw and putting the Aggies up for good at 55-52. McMullen had 19 points for Jackson and Fail added 16 points. Tucker had 14 points for Dadeville and Trey Johnson and Dominique Foster each added 8 points for the Tigers.
Benjamin Russell 75, Reeltown 50
The Benjamin Russell Wildcats jumped out to a 24-8 lead in the first quarter on their way to a 75-50 win over the Reeltown Rebels in Monday’s Lake Martin Slam Fest game.
Robert Hudson / The Outlook
Dadeville’s Qua Tucker (23) goes up for a shot against Jackson’s Daron McMullen during Monday’s game in Alexander City.
Benjamin Russell Coach Jeff Hines said the Wildcats (3-12) had their most complete performance of the year in Monday’s win. “I thought we played really, really well defensively in the first half, and I thought we played a complete 32 minute game tonight,” Hines said. “The biggest thing we’re working on right now is chemistry. This is by far the best chemistry we’ve had with all of the moving parts working together. But it’s like I told the guys, I don’t care who we’re playing and what that scoreboard says because when you play tournaments it’s all about execution and getting better. “I thought William Grant really stepped up tonight, Alex Doss played well and Shannon Woody had a good night for us.” Jonathan Gardner, head coach of Reeltown (2-3), said the Rebels started the game too slowly and lost the battle
on the boards. “We started off really, really slow. I’m guessing the long break kind of hurt us,” Gardner said. “We got outrebounded real bad and just didn’t play well the first half and ran out of gas trying to fight back in the second half.” The Wildcats scored at least 20 points in each of the first three quarters in Monday’s win. Woody led the Wildcats with 13 points, Grant added 12 points and Doss had 10 points on the night. CJ Bell led Reeltown with 34 points and Markez McCullough had 11 points for the Rebels. The Slam Fest will continue Tuesday starting at noon with Elmore County vs. Dadeville, followed by Cleburne County vs. Reeltown, Stanhope Elmore vs. Jackson and wrapping up with Benjamin Russell vs. Walton (Marietta, Georgia) at 6 p.m.
ne would think that a few days before the College Football Playoff involving Alabama that an article would be easy to write, wouldn’t one? Well, what “one” didn’t know was Christmas is the time when my house has more kids than a school bus headed to the McWane Center. I had kids to the left of me; kids to the right; five kids this time! Every-body clap your hands! *clapclapclapclapclap* Therefore, here I am Monday morning piecing something together resembling a few scattered paragraphs. Feel free to contact The Outlook and complain that this column was subpar. What are they gonna do, fire me? I’m tenured baby!............ Wait….. What do you mean the newspaper doesn’t tenure people????..... Uh oh. Anyhoo, here are my assorted thoughts on the upcoming Playoff: I doubted this Alabama team early. There were issues at quarterback, wide receiver and running back (from a depth stand point on the last one only) that seemed rather obvious. My main concern was leadership, though. Who would step up and take control when a play had to be made? Well, the plays are being made when they need to be, but it is less because of a Rolondo McClain, CJ Moseley or Barrett Jones directing others to do so and more a collective team effort. Frankly, I am still not 100 percent sure who THE team leader is. It is more evident to me that there is a “leadership by committee” for the Tide in 2015 which certainly bodes well for winning two playoff games. I keep hearing that Derrick Henry won’t be able to carry the ball 90 times in these two games as he has done in his last two. My question is, “why not?” If needed, I believe Henry could easily handle that many carries. No player has trained harder than the Heisman winner this season and he only gets better as the game goes on. He has also had roughly a month to rest from the Auburn and Florida games. In the end, I doubt he is required to tote the rock that many times, though, as Kenyon Drake seems much healthier from practice reports. One national pundit favors Alabama big over Michigan State based on the Tide’s success at returning punts. I certainly think Alabama wins too, but the punt return stat is a façade. Cyrus Jones currently has 438 yards on 36 returns with three TDs. That’s a 12-plus yard average. Not bad. However, two of the three TDs came against lower-division Charleston Southern so those must be discounted. The other touchdown came against Miss State where there was a block in the back that was not called. If those 184 yards on three returns are removed, the average run back becomes a much more pedestrian 7.6 yards. I LOVE Cyrus Jones; he has been award-worthy as a DB this year. However, I hesitate to base an Alabama victory Thursday on his punt return skills. Michigan State has played more ranked teams than Alabama, but Alabama has played nine teams with eight or more wins; the Spartans have only played five……. MSU also played four conference teams with losing records; the Tide faced zero SEC teams with losing marks. My prediction: Alabama 29, Michigan State 14. I think the game is close for awhile, but the Tide’s depth, running game and defense begin to pull away in the third quarter. ‘Bama moves on to face Clemson and native son Dabo Swinney in Glendale. Robinson is a sports columnist for The Outlook and is president of the Lake Martin Area Bama Club.