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KICKING OFF A NEW YEAR
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Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892 February 11, 2016
Vol. 124, No. 30
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BRHS graduation rate dips slightly
Attorney seeks delay in McDaniel murder case Scheduling conflict for Feb. 16 hearing cited By MITCH SNEED Editor
The attorney representing Matthew Clate McDaniel, 33, of Dadeville who is charged with murder in the Jan. 17 shooting death of Norman Dean Crayton has asked for a continuation on the first call hearing set for Feb. 16. Opelikabased attorney Davis Whittelsey filed a continuance request on Feb. 1 accordMcDaniel ing to court records, citing a scheduling conflict. “We did make that request, but at this time we have not heard a word,” Whittelsey said Wednesday. “We want to be able to address some things at first call including setting a preliminary hearing so we are trying to get that rescheduled if possible.” Whittelsey also filed a request for discovery late last month, seeking access to all evidence the state has gathered in the case. Whittelsey said he has not gotten a ruling in that motion at this time. “We have not gotten as much as a piece of paper from the state at this point,” Whittelsey said. “We’d like to have that in order to prepare for a preliminary hearing. So we are waiting to hear on that as well.” McDaniel was arrested in the early morning hours See MCDANIEL • Page 3
Drop of 3 percent ends three-year run of increases, leaves school 5 percent below state average By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Above, Rev. John Hill of Flint Hill United Methodist Church and Rev. Todd Henderson greet a participants in Ash Wednesday imposition of the ashes at the site of the old Mandolin Cafe. Below, a sign welcomes participants in the event.
BISCUITS AND BLESSINGS
Churches take multiple approaches on Ash Wednesday By MITCH SNEED Editor
Several area churches held special events yesterday in observance of Ash Wednesday. In Alexander City several churches held Ash Wednesday celebrations, but one of the most unique was the Ashes & Biscuits To Go drive-though Ash Wednesday event sponsored by Alexander City First United Methodist Church and Flint Hill United Methodist Church. Rev. John Hill of Flint Hill and Rev. Todd Henderson of Alexander City United Methodist Church conducted imposition of ashes as drivers pulled through the parking lot See ASH • Page 3
Benjamin Russell High School saw its graduation rate slip by three percentage points from 87 percent in 2014 to 84 percent in 2015, according to data on graduation rates released recently by the Alabama State Department of Education. The Benjamin Russell rate was 2 percent lower than the state graduation rate of 89 percent. “There are no excuses,” said Alexander City Schools Superintendent Darrell Cooper when asked about reasons for the drop. “These numbers just tend to fluctuate and, unfortunately, this time we saw a little bit of a drop. “I think last year we saw our rates go up for the third straight year to 87 percent. Of course, that made us really happy and we’re disappointed to see it go down this time. But we’ve got a good administration and good faculty and we’ll continue to do the things we’ve been doing and I’m convinced it will rebound. We certainly don’t want to see it continue to trend down.” The graduation rate for Benjamin Russell’s black students in 2015 was 86 percent, four points higher than the number for white students. “I wasn’t aware of that,” Cooper said. “That is a positive. We actually have been looking at the ways the academic performance of some of our students is adversely affected by things like race and poverty and what needs to be done to fill some of those gaps, so maybe that tells us that we don’t have a gap with regard to race, which is a good thing.” In all of Alabama, black students posted a graduation rate of 87 percent while white students graduated at a 91 percent clip. The ASDE report did show, however, a gap with regard to impoverished students at Benjamin See GRADUATION • Page 3
Dadeville Council 57 34 votes to join county in Sunday sales vote Today’s
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Lake Martin
Lake Levels
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With the Dadeville City Council unanimously passing a resolution at Tuesday’s meeting, the city of Dadeville is one step closer to allowing its citizens to vote on the sale of alcohol on Sundays. “We need to develop new revenues to keep providing the services that we provide,” Dadeville City Council member Randy Foster said. “But at the same time, I don’t want to ram it down someone’s throat.” Dadeville City Council See SALES • Page 3
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Adelia Russell Foundation gives back
Ben Russell presented checks from the Adelia Russell Charitable Foundation to local charities recently. Pictured from left, Richard Wagoner receives a $40,000 donation to MainStreet Alexander City, Dr. Darrell Cooper received a $50,000 donation to the Alex City Schools Education Foundation. Russell is shown holding a $30,000 donation to the Adelia Russell Library, Sharon Fuller is pictured with a $25,000 donation to the United Way and Roger Holliday is shown with a $20,000 donation to the Gateway Foundation.
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Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com
Mia Osborn Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 mia.osborn@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
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 Debbie DeWildt Advertising Sales, Ext. 214 debbie.dewildt@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
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, Lake magazine, (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) Lake Martin Living, The Outlook is published five times Kenneth Boone a week, Tuesday through Saturday Photography and mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, a commercial web printing press. Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011. © 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. ReproPOSTMASTER: Send address duction of any part of any issue requires changes to Post Office Box 999, written publisher permission. Alexander City, AL 35011.
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Mr. Willie J. Bradford Funeral service for Mr. Willie J. Bradford, 63 of Goodwater, AL; Friday, February 12, 2016; 1 p.m.; Paradise Mission Full Gospel Church, Goodwater, AL. Burial, Macedonia’s Memorial Garden, Goodwater, AL. Armour Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
DEAR ABBY: “Roger” and I have been seeing each other for two years. (We are both 50.) He is very handsome. We go to movies, ride our bikes together, work out at the gym and attend other events. He calls me every night, sends emails during the day -- even calls me when he’s on a break from work. He never asks me to pay for anything and sends me flowers on special occasions. He will kiss me goodnight, but he has never held my hand or been affectionate in any other way. People we see think we’re married or seriously dating and have asked about it. He tells them we just “hang out” and that he’s just a friend. Roger says he’s seeing only me, but he’s on a dating website every night instant messaging younger women and talking to them for hours. I know it because one of my girlfriends is on the same site and checked it out for me. My friend says Roger is a good companion and I should
Obituaries Mr. Weaver Nolen Dean 1925-2016 Graveside service for Mr. Weaver Nolen Dean, 90, of Alexander City, will be Thursday, February 11, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. at the Flint Hill UMC Cemetery. Rev. John Hill will officiate. The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 11, 2016 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. Mr. Dean passed away on Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at Russell Medical Center. He was born on August 2, 1925 in Tallapoosa County to Weaver Field Dean and Beatrice Keel Dean. Mr. Dean loved hunting, fishing, and reading his bible. He is survived by his son, Cecil Dean (Brenda), of Alexander City; daughter, Dorothy Harper of Alexander City; grandchildren, Kevin Dean, Gary Todd Dean (Sandy), Roy Jamie Sims, Celia Kay Huey (Chuck), and Michelle Crew; six great-grandchildren; and sister, Christine Harris. He was preceded in death by his wife, Maggie Penton Dean; parents; and sisters, Marie Gaston and Mary Mahan. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome. com. Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
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to be a pleasant relationship. However, if you need more -and I think you do -- then it’s time for you to move on. DEAR ABBY Advice
stay with it. But I’m attractive and accomplished. I think I deserve a fuller relationship with someone who is less platonic. Abby, what do you think? -- HANGING UP ON HANGING OUT DEAR HANGING UP: Roger has made it no secret that he’s comfortable with the relationship as it is and doesn’t intend for it to progress. It appears the two of you are best friends. (Nowhere did you mention that you are in love with him.) I do think that after all this time you should ask him why the relationship hasn’t become sexual. The answer may be that Roger is impotent, asexual or he’s just not interested in you that way. If that’s OK with you, then continue what appears
DEAR ABBY: My mother won’t stop nagging me about marriage. She insists that I “must” be married by the age of 22 and have kids by 25, which I think is inconceivable. Abby, I’m only 17. Marriage and boys are the last things on my mind. I have told her that her “talks” make me uncomfortable and I don’t plan on getting married anytime soon (if ever), but she won’t let up. She keeps saying she knows she’s right, and that when I’m 22 I’ll thank her, which I know isn’t going to happen. Other than this, she’s great and we don’t have any other problems. She has been saying this a lot recently because I’m going off to college this year, and that’s where she thinks I’ll find a husband. How can I get through to her? -- VIRGIN TERRITORY DEAR VIRGIN TERRITORY:
It would be interesting to know why your mother feels this way. Could she have been born and raised in a culture in which early marriage and motherhood are expected of women? With her mindset, I don’t think you will “win” an argument with her over this. Be patient with her and when she raises the subject, point out that women of your generation are expected to complete their education and be able to support themselves financially before they marry in case the need arises later (i.e. divorce or widowhood). It’s a fact. Women in the United States -- particularly college-educated women -- are now marrying and having children later than they did a generation ago. 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.
One injured in Wednesday morning crash
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
One person was transported for treatment after a 7:15 a.m. accident this morning on Cherokee Road in front of Benjamin Russell High School. A silver Chevy Malibu appeared to come down South Central and struck the gold Ford Crown in the side. Both vehicles sustained major damage. The accident is still under investigation and no further details were available.
Public Meetings 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 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.
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Dadeville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 5 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 upstairs in the courthouse 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 second and fourth Monday of the month at 5 p.m. in the Conference Room in the Town Hall.
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Graduation Russell. Those students graduated at a rate of 77 percent compared to the state rate of 85 percent. Benjamin Russell’s special education students graduated at a rate of 57 percent compared to the state rate of 72 percent. Cooper said the Benjamin Russell administration and staff will continue to work toward the state target of a 90 percent graduation rate. “We’re continually looking at things that we can do to improve our graduation rates,” Cooper said. “Now, with the four-year cohort it’s going to be tougher than ever to get to that 90 percent
continued from page 1
mark. I’m confident we’ll get there.” Among Tallapoosa County schools, Reeltown had the highest rate with an overall rate of 93 percent, 92 percent for black students and 93 percent posted by white students. Dadeville High School posted a graduation of 89 percent, with black students graduating at a 92 percent rate and white students performing at an 88 percent rate. Horseshoe Bend had an overall rate of 83 percent.
Sales
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member Mickey Tarpley said it would the citizens of Dadeville deciding the matter and not the council. “A vote of the people would be the ultimate public hearing on the matter,” Tarpley said. “I make the motion to pass the resolution to let the people decide the matter.” Currently in Tallapoosa County, only the town of Camp Hill allows Sunday sales of alcohol. The Tallapoosa County Commission has already requested the local legislation on the matter of Sunday sales. It is unclear if the Alexander City City Council will join the effort at this point. The matter is now in the hands of Rep. Mark Tuggle and Sen. Tom Whatley to present legislation that would put the subject of Sunday alcohol sales to a vote of the citizens of Dadeville. Richard Wyman made a request of the council for the city to pick up construction debris at homes that he renovates. “The truck that is coming around picking up debris is refusing to pick up construction debris,” Wyman said. “The way I see it, I put money into these houses. One house I bought for $3,800 and fixed it up. A realtor tells me it is worth over $50,000 now. I pay property taxes and assume I will be paying taxes on the higher amount. That is finished and rented out. I don’t see why you can’t pick up my stuff when I contribute to the taxes here.” Foster explained that they cannot pick up debris for commercial operations. “We passed an ordinance several years that we do not pick up construction debris,” Foster said. For the simple fact roofing, metal and various other things that we cannot dispose of. When we passed the resolution, we had contractors putting out debris expecting us to pick it up. We do not have a dump. We cannot do that for commercial operations.”
The council denied a request from Floyd’s Feed and Seed to rent part of the Dadeville City Hall that was once the service area for McKelvey Chevrolet because of traffic and liability issues. Dadeville resident Peggy Harrelson addressed the council about a drainage issue in her yard. The council asked her if she would allow the city to have an easement to address the issue and she agreed. Dadeville City Clerk Mike Gardner wants to remind everyone that business licenses in Dadeville will be delinquent after Feb. 15. The Dadeville City Council also: • went into executive session for a few minutes. • discussed still needing interested residents for the Board of Adjustments to work with the planning and zoning committee. • heard from Parks and Recreation Director Scott Baker that they were still looking for a tractor and the possibility of one of the department’s employees retiring. • heard from Fire Chief Keith Wilkerson about the status of a the tower truck repair, about required testing of the department’s ladders and that the electrical work for the fire station is now complete. • was updated about a tire dump near the school by Police Chief David Barbour that it had been taken on by the State Attorney General’s office. • approved payment of bills. • approved an advertisement in Tallapoosa Publisher’s Parade issue with some changes at a cost of $1050. • approved recreation center rentals. • approved minutes from the last meetings. • heard that a new employee was being hired as the city cemetery supervisor who will also work with other city departments. • agreed to allow the street department to purchase an ice maker at a cost of $1947.
Ash
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at the site of what was the Mandolin Cafe on Cherokee Road from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. “We have had a good crowd take part today,” Henderson said. “We started out with 100 biscuits and they were almost all gone at the end of the hours. One thing that was great to see is the number of students we had stop by. It’s refreshing to see that they were willing to wear the ashes all day at school. That says something there.” Hill said that the students were from Central Alabama Community College as well as Benjamin Russell High School. “You never really know what to expect, but to see the students take the time to stop by and visit with us was great,” Hill said. Some got out to visit, while others simply stayed behind the wheel, had the ashes imposed on their forehead and picked up a biscuit for the road. “It’s all about being accessible,” Henderson said. “If they don’t come to you, sometimes you have to go to them.” In Dadeville, Red Ridge United Methodist Church held two separate events. From 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., Rev. Paul Messer held short devotionals, prayer and imposition of ashes for any-
one for those who stopped by. “This year was the first time we have done that,” Messer said. “It was a come and go event so those who were out on an early start could stop by to start their day with us.” Messer said about 20 people took part in the morning service, while Wednesday evening, Messer led those in attendance in the traditional Ash Wednesday service of Holy Communion and imposition of ashes. “We don’t have as many as some churches, but we are always happy to see everyone,” Messer said. “We are still learning how to appreciate the Ash Wednesday and include it in the Protestant traditions that we all grew up with.” Ash Wednesday is observed by many Christians, including Anglicans, Lutherans, Episcopalians, Methodists, Presbyterians and Roman Catholics. The day marks the beginning of Lent. According to Wikipedia, “Ash Wednesday derives its name from the practice of blessing ashes made from palm branches blessed on the previous year’s Palm Sunday, and placing them on the heads of participants to the accompaniment of the words ‘Repent, and believe in the Gospel’ or ‘Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.’” +
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McDaniel
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of Jan. 17 after hunters found Crayton’s body in a wooded area off Barron’s Bridge Road south of Dadeville. A release from Tallapoosa County Sheriff Jimmy Abbett said the victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds. McDaniel was released from jail on Jan. 19 after a bond of $250,000 was posted. Records show that AAA Bonding secured the bond, which was signed by McDaniel. The only condition added to the bond documents was that McDaniel was to have no contact with the victim’s family. Other court records show details that have not been released previously. McDaniel’s arrest warrant lists the time of the crime as between the hours of 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 16 and 4:30 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 17. That would be the time that the two were last seen and when the body was discovered. The two men were seen at Col. Tom’s Tavern, a club located at 10207 County Road 34 near Dadeville, the Saturday night before Crayton’s body was found, witnesses said. Those who were at the club said at one point McDaniel and Crayton were seen playing pool together. McDaniel, the owner of Lakeside Excavation and Materials, is also known for his appearance on the 2012 History Channel reality show “Bamazon.” The show tracked the trials and tribulations of a group of Americans running a gold mining operation in Guyana.
Do I need to file a tax return this year? STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
You are required to file a federal income tax return if your income is above a certain level, which varies depending on your filing status, age and the type of income you receive. However, the Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers that some people should file even if they aren’t required to because they may get a refund if they had taxes withheld or they may qualify for refundable credits. To find out if you need to file, check the Individuals section of the IRS website at www.IRS.gov or consult the instructions for Form 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ for specific details that may help you determine if you need to file a tax return with the IRS this year. You can also use the Interactive Tax Assistant available on the IRS website. The ITA tool is a tax law resource that takes you through a series of questions and provides you with responses to tax law questions. Even if you don’t have to file for 2015, here are six reasons why you may want to: Federal Income Tax Withheld You should file to get money back if your employer withheld federal income tax from your pay, you made estimated tax payments, or had a prior year overpayment applied to this year’s tax. Earned Income Tax Credit You may qualify for EITC if you worked, but did not earn a lot of money. EITC is a refundable tax credit; which means you could qualify for a tax refund. To get the credit you must file a return and claim it. 3. Additional Child Tax Credit This refundable credit may be available if you have at least one qualifying child and you did not get the full amount of the Child Tax Credit. 4. American Opportunity Credit Students in their first four years of postsecondary education may qualify for as much as $2,500 through this credit. Forty percent of the credit is refundable so even those who owe no tax can get up to $1,000 of the credit as cash back for each eligible student. 5. Adoption Credit You may be able to claim a refundable tax credit for qualified expenses you paid to adopt an eligible child. 6. Health Coverage Tax Credit Certain individuals who are receiving Trade Adjustment Assistance, Reemployment Trade Adjustment Assistance, Alternative Trade Adjustment Assistance or pension benefit payments from the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, may be eligible for a 2015 Health Coverage Tax Credit. Eligible individuals can claim a significant portion of their payments made for qualified health insurance premiums. For more information about filing requirements and your eligibility to receive tax credits, visit www. IRS.gov.
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EDITORIAL BOARD Kenneth Boone Mitch Sneed
Outlook The
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Page 4
Our
Opinion
Time to allow vote on Sunday alcohol sales
T
allapoosa County, Alexander City and Dadeville are like any other counties and municipalities in the state. Their lifeblood is taxes. Among other things, those taxes help pave our streets, properly dispose of our garbage, police our streets and neighborhoods and pay and equip those who respond in the case of a fire or other emergency. And any time citizens of Tallapoosa County are forced to purchase a good or service in an adjoining county, it costs the county tax dollars. In a nutshell, that’s why the Tallapoosa County Commission and Dadeville City Council have approved resolutions asking the local state legislative delegation to introduce a local bill calling for a referendum allowing voters to decide whether they want Sunday sales of alcohol in the two municipalities and the county. It remains unclear if Alexander City will join in that move or not. The underlying message from businesses is that being able to sell alcohol on Sunday would even the playing field with businesses in Lee and Elmore counties. Retailers say that some Tallapoosa County residents are shopping in those counties when they want to “one-stop” shop on Sundays or simply because they desire alcohol on a Sunday and Tallapoosa County isn’t an option. We realize that there are those residents in our area who don’t agree with drinking, particularly on Sundays. But we also realize that those who desire to drink or purchase alcohol on Sundays will likely do so, whether the alcohol is purchased in Alexander City, Dadeville, the county or elsewhere. Why not keep the taxes in our county and municipalities and have that money improve our lives rather than those of our neighbors in surrounding counties? Or at least vote on doing so? Legalizing Sunday sales of alcohol is the progressive thing to do for our area. It will keep our taxes working for us and it will serve as a draw to certain retailers who might want to locate here. Major grocery chains looking for new sites prefer areas without Sunday sales restrictions. Allowing Sunday sales of alcohol is the right thing to do for the county, Alexander City and Dadeville – both to increase our tax coffers and to promote business growth. Let’s at least put it to a vote.
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 334-242-7100. His office is located at the State Capitol at 600 Dexter Robert Bentley Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama.
Luther Strange was elected Alabama’s 49th Attorney General first elected in 2010, and serves as the State’s chief law enforcement officer. Luther Strange He can be reached at 334-242-7300, and his office is located at 501 Washington Avenue, Montgomery. Mark Tuggle (R) represents the 81st District covering Coosa, Chilton and Tallapoosa counties. He can be reached by phone at 256-3922006 or by email at Mark Tuggle tughd81@gmail.com. His office is located at 110 Calhoun Street, Suite 108, Alexander City.
Thursday, February 11, 2016
A fresh look at the presidential candidates
T
he American voters are miffed. I know that’s not exactly a newsflash, but if ever it needed to be made clear, Tuesday night’s vote in New Hampshire did the trick. On the Republican side, Donald Trump, the single candidate in the Republican field who can emblazon his entire detailed plan on his cap – “Make America Great Again” – won by a whopping 18 percent over his nearest challenger, John Kasich. For the Democrats, Bernie Sanders, the longtime senator from Vermont who has referred to himself as a democratic socialist, beat Hillary Clinton even more badly. So we get it, America. You’re steamed. But from where I sit, you didn’t exactly pick the best election year to go all revolution on us. (Interestingly, Trump came out for his victory speech on Tuesday night to the tune of the Beatles’ “Revolution.” Sanders, of course, has talked about a revolution since his campaign was launched.) Frankly, all of the candidates in the 2016 field are, to my mind, flawed. If there’s a statesman in the bunch, I would argue that it’s Sanders, but one has to wonder how his ideas, though laudable, might be put into action. To his credit, he does have a reputation in the Senate for compromise, but with the current crop of Republicans in Congress, the common ground he could find with Capitol Hill might accommodate a phone booth. And while his opponent, Hillary, carries the Clinton name and is getting support on the
DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer
campaign trail from Bill – arguably the best on-the-stump politician in my lifetime – she retains the baggage of her time as Secretary of State, namely Benghazi and emails. If she makes the general election, the Republican nastiness will be unprecedented in the attacks the GOP machinery will launch against her. In fact, even though the Republicans have yet to select a candidate from among their contenders, the negativity toward Hillary has already started. It will only get worse. Then there are the Republicans, led by Trump, who plans to shout and generalize his way to the White House. We haven’t heard a single thing from the man that could be called a detail, unless you consider “Yuuuuuge!” a detail, because, undoubtedly, that’s what everything Trump plans to do will be. Ted Cruz? Well, it’s likely he’s been in the same room with the truth, but the two aren’t close. A quick check of Politifact proves that. Plus, it’s really difficult for me to believe he’d back any hard look at Wall Street with a wife that works for Goldman Sachs. Marco Rubio is Mr. Smooth with his boots and his hip iPod playlist. But the Florida senator is too easily shaken. Under pressure, his mouth becomes a desert and/or he repeats himself. His views on some social issues ring a bit medieval.
Then there are the governors – Jeb Bush, Chris Christie and John Kasich. Christie is re-evaluating his candidacy after a disappointing sixth-place finish in New Hampshire. (Why? BridgeGate? Too rough on Rubio?) I like the guy. I’d like to see him stick around. Jeb Bush impresses me more as professorial than political. I’m not sure he’s got the rough-andtumble it takes to be successful in a presidential campaign. I think he’s a good guy and more intelligent than his brother W, but not nearly the affable politico. With Carly Fiorina and Ben Carson all but relegated to the dustbin of presidential political history after Tuesday, that leaves us with Kasich. Kasich is an interesting candidate. First off, he’s a winner. He was 9-for-9 in races for an Ohio seat in the U.S. House and is 2-for-2 in races for governor of Ohio. His views strike an interesting blend of moderate and conservative and, as governor of Ohio for five years now, he has executive political experience. After his second place finish in New Hampshire, we will find out more about Kasich. There will be barbs and arrows flung at him like never before in his Ohio political campaigns. We’ll see how he can weather the storm his opposition – now aware that he might be a credible threat – creates. All that said, right now, I’m feelin’ The Bern. But I plan to keep an eye on Kasich, too. Granger is a staff writer for The Outlook.
Today’s
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“We have to let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the one that is waiting for us. – Joseph Campbell
Today’s
Scripture “Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.” –Hebrews 11:1
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Vote to protect our religious freedoms Dear Editor, Citizens of the Bible Belt have decided that religious freedom isn’t a requirement for us anymore. Over my lifetime social customs and culture exhibited less and less social responsible and more anti-social behavior without any higher motives than what to do for fun on the weekend. Part of the problem is the Supreme Court making repeated rulings limiting Christian symbols, the Bible and prayer in public. The leadership of Christian pastors is now limited to Bible study classes. Few have tried to stand up to the government or the Supreme Court? We have two outstanding examples in Alabama, which will probably be eliminated any day now by an ACLU lawsuit. Those are a few of the local Boards of Education and the Alabama Supreme Court Justice Roy Moore still fighting for Christian values in the state. Thank you both. The last National election was lost by one percentage point because Evangelical and “Born
Again” Christians would not vote for Romney because he was a Mormon. Other Christians had no problem voting for a Muslim. I know he claims to be a Christian, but if it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, -----, enough said. Several prominent authorities on Islam have brought out the fact that Muslims are allowed to lie and are even encouraged to lie if it will advance Islam. Legislators and leaders are ignoring these facts and are tenaciously holding on to their ignorance in support of Islam. Last election most of us felt the nation could not withstand four more years of Barack Obama and the situation is even worse now. But, when trying to find ways to help people register to vote I am running into a brick wall. Oh yes, “this is a much needed service”, but not in my parking lot. One minister said he felt uncomfortable with mixing religion and politics, the other said he would have to get back to me. Chirp, chirp, chirp,-------. Who is going to defend pastor’s rights to have
services if they are unwilling to stand up for Christianity and their congregations? Tax exempt rights won’t get us into heaven and the American colonies would never have been founded if the first pilgrims had been Christians like we are today. Life is too easy now. If we wind up with another Democrat for President we will become another small facet of the Pacific and European Unions with either a communist or a criminally pathological liar for a leader. But what’s the worry? They will be next to powerless under the governance of the United Nations and Christianity will be like Zoroastrianism, which no one knows what they believed because the Muslims have destroyed all their literature and monuments. Hopefully prayer is as powerful as some people think, even if doing nothing to back it up! Sherry Sellers Alexander City
all his records recorded to be among the first time eligible list of 15 finalists is awesome. It would be great for him if he were chosen to be entered in the pro hall of fame. Owens’ record is undisputed. I won’t tell you his record, read it for yourself. He even set a new record. The man played the game and that made him worthy to be there. I’m glad he made the cut. Terrell made mistakes along the way, outspoken a lot, but he never got into trouble outside the field. When
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Owens was a great player, wishing him success Dear Editor, The majority of Alexander City is made up of some forgiving people. We are proud of Terrell Owens and all of his accomplishments. Sure there was a time in his life when he was young, arrogant and outspoken, but that was then. How long will people hold a grudge? Let it go before it festers. The man played the game, and played it very well. The facts are real. It happened, this is Terrell Owens’ life story. He made history, just to have
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so many young men’s futures end because of barroom fights, shootings, drugs, Terrell stayed focused on the team in his 16 pro seasons. So Alexander City, let’s be proud of this young man and pray and hope that history is in the making for him and Alexander City. So let the bitterness go, let it go and be happy for him. Congratulations Terrell, I’m keeping my fingers crossed. Arlean Wyckoff Alexander City
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February 11, 2016 Today’s Events
BASEBALL SOFTBALL TBALL REGISTRATION: Dadeville Dixie Youth will have registration for baseball, softball and t-ball Feb. 11 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Dadeville
February 11 - February 27
WETUMPKA DEPOT PLAYERS: Steel Magnolias will be presented by the Wetumpka Depot Players Feb. 11- Feb. 27. For ticket information call 334-8681140 or go to wetumpkadepot.com.
February 12
SOCCER REGISTRATION: Alexander City Youth Soccer will host registration Feb. 12 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m at the Sportplex Gym. VALENTINE GALA: Bridge Builders of Alexander City is hosting a Valentine Gala. Feb. 12 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Cooper Community Center. It is $20 per couple or $80 a table. Raffle tickets will be sold at $1 ticket with a $50 first prie and Valentine’s Gift basket for 2nd. Contact Hudson R. Hinton at 256-7501140 or Mike Goggans at 256-749-2556.
February 13
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VALENTINE�S DAY SEMINAR: There will be a seminar Feb. 13 from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Arbor to celebrate marriage. The night will include dinner, door prizes and the Date Night Challenge. The video by comedians Dr. Greg and Erin Smalley will allow couples to learn how to recognize why marriage is valuable, to invest in their marriage and join a community that is for their marriage. There is no cost. If you are interested, call Megan Sanders at 256-827-9127 or Angelia Windsor at 256-827-9226. SOCCER REGISTRATION: Alexander City Youth Soccer will host registration Feb. 13 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Sportplex Gym. BASEBALL SOFTBALL TBALL REGISTRATION: Dadevile Dixie Youth will have registration for baseball, softball and t-ball Feb. 13 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Dadeville Recreation Center. 7-12 year old baseball and softball is $60 and 3-6 year old T-ball is $45. Payment and a copy of the child’s birth certificate must be presented at registration. VALENTINE’S BANQUET: Sixth Street Baptist Church is having it’s annual Valentine’s Banquet on Saturday, February 13, at 6:00 p.m. in the church gymnasium. Special entertainment for the evening will be comedy by Mutzie, a clean Christian comedian from the New Orleans area. Cost for dinner is $10 per person and includes your choice of steak, chicken breast, or hamburger steak along with sides, salad, and dessert. Space is limited and all registrations must be received by Sunday, February 7. To register, please call the church office at 256-234-2408 or email Ginger Young at gyoung@sixthstreetbaptistchurch.com.
Recreation Center. 7-12 year old baseball and softball is $60 and 3-6 year old T-ball is $45. Payment and a copy of the child’s birth certificate must be presented at registration. PATH FINDERS: The next meeting of PATH FINDERS will be on Feb. 11 at noon in the United Way conference room, Main Street, downtown Alexander City. Please join us and help us make strides in 2016 to improve the lives of individuals dealContact Bill Stinson at bill @fbc-ac.org for more information.
February 20
PANCAKE BREAKFAST: The Alexander City Kiwanis Club is hosting its annual pancake breakfast Feb. 20 from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the BRHS Lunchroom. The breakfast is all you can eat and there will be Conecuh Sausage. Tickets are $6 each. TRADE DAY: The Bibb Grave School will hosts a trade day Feb. 20 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
February 21
ANNUAL FRIENDS AND FAMILY DAY: Great Bethel Missionary Baptist Church is hosting its annual friends and family day Sunday, Feb. 21 at 10:30 a.m. Special guest and church is Rev. Wayne Cowhick, pastor of Alexander City Methodist Church.
February 22
HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Julie Williams will be the speaker for Horizons Unlimited Feb. 22 at the Alexander City Board of Education from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
February 27
FAMILY BINGO NIGHT: The Bibb Graves School is hosting a family bingo night Feb. 27 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. POLAR PLUNGE: Wind Creek State Park will host its Polar Bear Leap for Leap Year Feb. 27 at 2 p.m. Participates should meet at the beach. Park entrance fees apply to noncampers. For more information call 256-3290845.
February 29
HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Jerry Armor will be the speaker for Horizons Unlimited Feb. 29 at the Alexander City Board of Education from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
March 5
BOSTON BUTT SALE: There is a Boston Butt sale to benefit Carley Blankenship and family with pick up March 5 at Alex City Methodist Church from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are $30 each and can be purchased by calling or texting Kristi at 256-596-2171 or Celia at 256-496-2745 and at JR’s Sports Bar and Grill or see Ashley Barker at City Hall. Cash or check only. RUMMAGE SALE: The Pine Ridge Mission team of the Alexander City Methodist Church will hold its annual Rummage Sale on Saturday March 5 6 a.m.- 10 a.m. in the church fellowship hall. We will have furniture, household February 16 items, clothes, toys and much more. MEETING: The Artist Association of The proceeds will benefit our annual East Alabama will meet Feb. 16 from mission trip to the Pine Ridge Indian 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the United Way Reservation this summer. Conference Room.
February 18
FREEDMEN’S BUREAU PROJECT: The Adelia M. Russell Memorial Library will be hosting a project on the Freedmen’s Bureau Project Feb. 18 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Call or stop by the library for more information and to register. Learn how to index rare Freedmen’s Bureau records from 1865-1868. These records, which include the names of millions of freed slaves, will be available to the public for the first time when the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture opens this fall in Washington DC. The records will be online and free for everyone to learn about their family histories.
February 19-20
MINGLING OF SOULS: A simulcast will be shown at the First Baptist Church Chapel called The Mingling of Souls Simulcast with Matt and Laren Chandler. It will be from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Feb. 19 and Feb. 20 from 9 a.m. to noon. The cost is $10 per couple and focuses on building healthy relationships in marriage.
March 7
HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Susan Webb will be the speaker for Horizons Unlimited March 7 at the Alexander City Board of Education from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Page 7
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Submit calendar items:
Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/. ing with dementia in the Lake Martin area.
Today’s Anniversary
Jimmy and Betty Jo Nolen are celebrating their anniversary today.
Today’s Birthdays
Erica Bramlett, Beauford Voss, Amanda Luker, Chris Royal, and Jill Harris are celebrating birthdays.
April 16
THREE ON A STRING: The Dadeville First United Methodist Church presents Three on a String, Saturday, April 16 at White Acres in Camp Hill. Dinner of beef filet or chicken will start at 6 p.m. and Three on a Sting will play immediately after. Tickets are $50 per person and $100 a couple. For tickets call 256-825-7408 or 256-825-3985 and all proceeds will go towards local missions and support organizations such as Camp ASCCA and the Girls Ranch.
April 19
MEETING: The Artist Association of East Alabama will meet April 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the United Way Conference Room.
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May 12 - May 28
WETUMPKA DEPOT PLAYERS: I Hate Hamlet will be presented by the Wetumpka Depot Players May 12 - May 28. For ticket information call 334-8681140 or go to wetumpkadepot.com.
May 17
MEETING: The Artist Association of East Alabama will meet May 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the United Way Conference Room.
June 21
MEETING: The Artist Association of East Alabama will meet June 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the United Way Conference Room.
July 14 - July 30
WETUMPKA DEPOT PLAYERS: Calendar Girls will be presented by the Wetumpka Depot Players July 14 - July 30. For ticket information call 334-8681140 or go to wetumpkadepot.com.
September 20
MEETING: The Artist Association of East Alabama will meet Sept. 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the United Way Conference Room.
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September 29 - October 15
WETUMPKA DEPOT PLAYERS: Young Frankenstein will be presented by the Wetumpka Depot Players September 29 - October 15. For ticket information call 334-868-1140 or go to wetumpkadepot.com.
October 18
MEETING: The Artist Association of East Alabama will meet Oct. 18 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the United Way Conference Room.
November 15
MEETING: The Artist Association of East Alabama will meet Nov. 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the United Way Conference Room.
Ongoing Events
TAX FILING ASSISTANCE: Starting Jan. 25 there will be free tax and electronic tax filing assistance at Volunteer March 12 Connections of Central Alabama. CLASS MEETING: The Laurel IRS certified volunteers will provide High School Class of 1969 is meeting free assistance to seniors over 60 with no Sat. March 12 at 10 a.m. at Cooper income limit and those under age 60 with Recreation Center. incomes less than $54,000. Taxpayers will be assisted in the order they are regMarch 15 istered. MEETING: The Artist Association of You need to bring last year’s tax East Alabama will meet March 15 from return, photo ID Social Security Cards, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the United Way W-2’s, 1099’s and SSA. If you have Conference Room. insurance through the government marketplace, bring your 1095-A. All employed March 19 taxpayers should bring a copy of their EGG HUNT: Wind Creek State Park year end pay stub. will host an Easter Egg Hunt March 19 at Dates for VCCA are Jan. and Feb. 10 a.m. in the North Picnic area. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from There will be prize eggs. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., March on Mondays For ages under 2, 2 to 4 5 to 8 and 9 and Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and to 12. Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and April For more information call 256-3291 to April 18 Mondays Tuesdays and 0845. Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Page 8
Thursday, February 11, 2016
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WILDCATS KICK OFF 2016
Highlights from this year’s Tide Benjamin Russell defeats Northridge in season opener recruiting class LUKE ROBINSON Sports Columnist
A
Robert Hudson / The Outlook
Benjamin Russell’s Cole Grogan, left, battles for the ball during Tuesday night’s game against Northridge at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex. Grogan scored two goals in Benjamin Russell’s 3-1 win. By ROBERT HUDSON Sports Editor
After a tight first half, the Benjamin Russell Wildcats pulled away to open the season with a 3-1 win over the Northridge Jaguars on Tuesday at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex. Benjamin Russell Coach Austin Teel said the defense played well in the playoff rematch. “I was very proud of the boys, especially defensewise. I think we looked great back there. Eddie Naranjo took control in the back, Chase Burton – a senior – and Thomas Lovett all played well back there on defense,” Teel said. “That helped us finish off this victory. Brian Barnes in goal did an outstanding job. He had one mistake giving up the goal, but other than that he looked great and communicated well with the boys on defense and in the midfield.” The Wildcats struck first early in the opening half when Grant Hudson found Cole Grogan on a through ball, as Grogan’s shot deflected off the goal keeper and in to give BRHS a 1-0 lead. Northridge responded with
21 minutes left in the first half, as Daniel Cain scored a goal to even it up at 1-1, which the score remained at the half. Teel said the Wildcats stepped up their game in the second half. “We looked better in the second half. You could tell in the first half we were kind of going through the motions and still kind of living off, in my opinion, last year’s team,” Teel said. “I told them at halftime, ‘guys, this is a new year and a new team. What last year’s team did was great, but we have to build on that this year and become a new team and a better team than last year. Because we can’t live in the past and say that because we were a good team last year we’re going to be a good team this year. That doesn’t happen. You’ve got to start like tonight.’” Four minutes into the second half, Benjamin Russell took the lead back as Grogan scored his second goal of the game to make it 2-1. The final goal of the game came three minutes later as Phillip Speake sealed the 3-1 victory for the Wildcats. Teel said the Wildcats will look to improve their midfield chemistry as they head
Robert Hudson / The Outlook
Benjamin Russell’s Franklin Staples (8) passes to a teammate during Tuesday night’s game.
to the Southern Shootout this weekend. “We’re still kind of working on the midfield to kind of link up on passes and things like that and trying to get that chemistry back to where
we had it last year,” Teel said. “But it takes a little time to build that chemistry. That’s what we’re hoping will happen coming up in the Southern Shootout Tournament.”
Lady Wildcats fall to Lady Jags in opener By ROBERT HUDSON Sports Editor
In a playoff rematch, the Benjamin Russell Lady Wildcats fell 3-1 in their season opener to the Northridge Lady Jaguars. Benjamin Russell Coach Bill Lutz said there were positives in the season opener on Tuesday. “For the first time out on a little test spin, I thought we saw a lot of good things. We told them before the game that there would be some bumps and some kinks that we want to get out, but we want to look at what we’ve got,” Lutz said. “We tried a lot of different looks on offense and defense and I thought our girls played hard and that’s basically what we were looking for in the first game. We didn’t want to come out and give up three points, but you have to tip your hat to Northridge because they’re a well-coached team.” Northridge took a 2-0 lead into halftime with both goals scored by Kate Kilgore. Northridge added to its lead eight minutes into the second half with a goal scored by Anna Maxson. Benjamin Russell’s goal came with four minutes remaining as Daly Wagoner scored for the Lady Wildcats. Benjamin Russell Coach Lee
Robert Hudson / The Outlook
Benjamin Russell’s Daly Wagoner, right, eludes a defender during Tuesday night’s game against Northridge.
Wagoner said the Lady Wildcats have some areas they can build on moving forward this season. “Two good teams played tonight and it was a very competitive game. I
think we saw a lot of good things that we can work on going forward for the rest of the season,” Wagoner said. “This is a starting point. It’s not where we start, it’s where we finish.”
nother year, another top recruiting class for Alabama. It’s almost become mundane (but not really). Detractors wonder, “Why go to Alabama and ride the bench when you can go to my school and be a star?” Detractors…. Y’all so crazy! Alabama plays as many (if not more true freshmen) than anyone in the country. Three of whom placed on ESPN’s All Freshman Team. If you are good enough, you will play in Tuscaloosa. And if you are good enough to play in Tuscaloosa, you are probably good enough to win awards and get drafted and stuff. A better question would be, “Why go to a University that MUST have you play immediately whether you are ready or not when you can potentially learn the game from some incredible peers?” Players who aren’t scared of competition or scared to learn are usually drawn to a team coached by Nick Saban. Every year I hear the “stars don’t matter” crowd. Every year they proven wrong. Yes, some five-stars flame out and some two-stars shine, but is it any wonder that Alabama, FSU and Ohio State stay atop the polls when they continuously finish 1, 2 and 3 in recruiting rankings? Stars don’t guarantee success; a team needs chemistry and coaching and even a little luck. But if you start with great talent, the rest comes a little easier. One other thought on rankings: An SEC team finishing 6th nationally may not be a good as, say, a Pac-12 team finishing 12th nationally. You see, that 6th place SEC team has to play other teams that probably finished 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5th. That Pac-12 team may only have to play one other team ranked ahead of them. All that being said, each year I like to make a few recruiting observations from ‘Bama’s class. Below are those observations: Biggest Get…. Ben Davis. Normally, this category is reserved for guys that Alabama wasn’t the favorite for going in; guys that didn’t have dads who were legendary at the Capstone and such. Due to Kirby-tastic circumstances, Saban and company had to fight like an LA Clippers equipment manager to keep the superstar linebacker though. The struggle was real….and totally worth it as Davis will be a bad mother----shut my mouth! Sleeper…. Aaron Robinson. This is always a tough choice because Saban’s classes have more stars than Einstein’s first grade homework. ANYHOO--- I have to go with Aaron Robinson here. 1. He is one of Alabama’s lowest rated recruits (although he was a three star) and 2. I know very, very little about him. He is a sleeper by definition. Regardless, Robinson (no relation by the way) has a nice upside. Strangely, he was also ‘Bama’s only signee from Florida this year. Future Top 5 NFL Pick… Raekwon Davis. This…. This…. THING…. Is huge! I am a big guy and I could easily hide behind him. Believe me; I stood next to him at the Alabama/ Mississippi All Star Game. He shook my hand. Rather, he shook my forearm and my hand was attached. He is raw (like most of the meat he eats I assume), but that just makes him even more impressive. By his junior year, he’ll be a QB-mauling Saban-bot. That gives me an idea for his new nickname: The Raekwon 3000 (trademarked). Can’t Wait to See First Play of… Josh Jacobs. Like signee Damien Harris the year before, his highlight film wowed me. In a day and age when no recruit ever flies under the radar, Jacobs flew under the radar. Heck, he swam under sonar! Then, as if by magic, Oklahoma gets his tape and offers. Other big time schools follow suit including Alabama. People keep saying Jacobs is our new Kenyan Drake. I like that. I like that a lot. People also say Jacobs is a better person than player. He is a community-first type of kid. Wish We Had Signed and Didn’t…. AJ Brown. I am holding a candlelight vigil outside of Bryant Denny Stadium next Tuesday this upset me so much. AJ Brown was THE story in the aforementioned AL/ MS game to me. He torched Alabama defensive backs with ease. Unfortunately, ‘Bama lost out to Ole Miss for this dynamic wide receiver. I love AJ Brown as a player. I will miss AJ Brown on the Tide’s sidelines….. Please don’t hurt us, AJ Brown! Robinson is a sports columnist for The Outlook and is president of the Lake Martin Area Bama Club.