Feb 2, 2016 Alex City Outlook by Tallapoosa Publishers

COMING WEDNESDAY: CITY MANAGER ISSUE AGAIN RAISED

THE

TUESDAY

EVERYONE DIG IN

Locals help plant new trees in the area. See page 11.

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892 February 2, 2016

Vol. 124, No. 23

www.alexcityoutlook.com

WILDCATS GET WINS OVER TIGERS. SPORTS, PAGE 12.

City council leaves in raises, freezes salaries By MITCH SNEED Editor

Raises that were included in the budget, those for employees who weren’t being paid in accordance with their years of service, as well as some that were not being paid at the proper grade in the recreation department will remain in place. But the salaries of all other employees will be frozen until the Auburn University Pay Study is complete and a more accurate and fair pay structure can be set. Those were two of the highlights from Monday’s

meeting of the Alexander City City Council. The news set well with workers from the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex. Some workers had been receiving the increased compensation for three weeks and faced the possibility of being rolled back to the original salary level. “All I’m asking for is what’s fair,” Sportplex employee Robert Graham said before the council voted. “I didn’t ask for a raise. I didn’t know Mitch Sneed / The Outlook about it until it was done. We get it for three weeks and now it’s snatched out from under us. Recreation Department employee Robert Graham addresses the council, saying taking raises back would be unfair to employees. The council voted to leave the See COUNCIL • Page 9 raises in place moments later.

Wind Creek, river cleanup cited in Green Progress Report

Weather may get ugly, but not as bad as thought earlier

By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

Thunderstorms possible, but nothing more violent likely By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

Representatives of several area first-responders, Alexander City and Tallapoosa County schools and The Outlook gathered Monday morning in the office of county Emergency Management Agency Director Jason Moran to hear what turned out to be some good news. Tallapoosa County has likely dodged a bullet weather-wise. Last week, the National Weather Service was predicting, based on its models, a widespread severe weather outbreak in Alabama, which was said to portend severe thunderstorms and a significant potential for tornadoes. On Monday, the NWS had dialed that potential back, particularly for areas east of I-65. “We could still see some thunderstorms, but we believe the potential for anything beyond that has largely diminished,” said Mark Rose, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, who

Special / The Outlook

A Auburn University head basketball Coach Bruce Pearl, his wife Brandy, Children’s Harbor CEO Myrle Grate aand Children’s Harbor founders Luanne and Ben Russell pose at an Auburn basketball game with a check for more than $250,000 raised at Pearl’s 2015 Fore the Children charity golf tournament. fo

PEARL COMPETES TO WIN AAuburn basketball coach competing to win $100,000 for Children’s Harbor

See WEATHER • Page 3

By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer

Auburn University head basketball coach Bruce Pearl needs your vote. c Pearl is one of 24 coaches currently competing in the Infiniti Coaches’ Charity c Challenge, vying to win a grand prize of C $100,000 for the charity of the winning $ coach’s choice. c Pearl’s chosen charity is Children’s Harbor, founded in 1990 by Ben and H Luanne Russell to serve long-term seriL ously ill children and their families. o

“My wife Brandy and I are very excited about starting a new partnership with Children’s Harbor,” Pearl said. “Helping children and their families with serious illnesses is something very near and dear to our hearts and something that we have a great passion for. It is my hope that we can help ease the burdens of many families in need.” Pearl, who is in his third season as leader of Auburn’s men’s basketball program, is one of 48 coaches who have participated in the challenge. Twenty-four See PEARL • Page 9

Wind Creek State Park and the annual Renew Our Rivers cleanups both earned mention in the state’s 2015 Green Progress Report, published annually by The Green Resource Center for Alabama. The annual report provides an in-depth look at close to 100 green-related projects and sustainability initiatives that collectively make a lasting impact for the state of Alabama. The mission of the Green Progress Report is to feature the important developments that make Alabama a greener place to live, work, and play. Contributors aim to share and promote the many different ways Alabama continues to make advances in green efforts and sustainable progress on multiple levels. Chris Williams, President of the Board of Directors for the GRCA, says the eighth annual Green Progress Report continues to track a wide range of important sustainability mileSee GREEN • Page 3

Teams begin practice for upcoming college bass tournament

Today’s

Weather

73 63

By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer

Cliff Williams / The Outlook

Trailers are lined up at Wind Creek State Parkas teams begin practice for the Bassmaster College Series Southern Conference Regional later this week.

High

Its already getting busy on Lake Martin with the Bassmaster College Series Southern Conference Regional and the competition does not start until Thursday. Official practice started Monday and boat trailers from Tennessee, Mississippi, Georgia, Florida and of course Alabama could already be seen at local boat ramps. “We got in Saturday night,” Troy University’s A.J. Etheredge said. “We got in an extra day of practice Sunday.” That extra day practice was needed for Etheredge and his teammate Colton Granger. “We are shallow water guys fishing Eufaula mostly,” Etheredge said. “We are used to fishing grass and lily pads and stuff like that. Today (Monday) we didn’t have as much of an issue as yesterday finding fish,” Etheredge said. “We are just trying to figure out where they are.” The Trojans are still having fun, despite a See FISH • Page 3

Low

Lake Martin

Lake Levels

483.33 Reported on 02/1/16 @ 3 p.m.

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Page 2

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Neglected dog causing a big stink for neighbors

Wednesday

62 38 Low

High

60 percent chance of rain

Thursday

52 30 Low

High

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

The Outlook

Mostly sunny

Staff

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.

Postal

Information

256-329-1313

DEAR ABBY: We recently bought a new home and have discovered that our elderly neighbors are caring for their grandson’s dog. The dog lives in a 3-by-6-foot area right next to our patio. The poor animal receives little attention and is rarely cleaned up after. As a consequence, our patio reeks of dog feces, and we are overwhelmed by flies. I feel bad for the couple, and I resent the grandson for allowing his dog to be neglected and for failing to have any consideration for the stench that makes our patio off-limits to us. How can I politely ask my new neighbors to clean up after their dog so we can enjoy our new home without offending them or creating a bad neighbor situation? -- “SHOO FLY” IN BAKERSFIELD, CALIF. DEAR SHOO FLY: If your neighbors are unable to properly care for their grand-

DEAR ABBY Advice

son’s dog, they shouldn’t have it. A dog is a responsibility -- the animal needs feeding, exercise, social contact and to be cleaned up after. To shirk that responsibility is cruel. It would not be offensive to inform these neighbors that the odor and flies from their dog run are so overwhelming that they prevent you from enjoying your patio. Speak up, or they’ll think you haven’t noticed. If this continues, call animal control or a pet rescue group. DEAR ABBY: I have been in a rocky relationship for 10 months, and I’m not sure

Obituaries Harry Hugh Rawlinson Harry Hugh Rawlinson, age 91, passed away on Saturday, January 30, 2016. Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 1, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. from the Chapel of Prattville Memorial with Chaplain David Rozelle officiating. The family will receive friends and family at Prattville Memorial on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Prattville Memory Gardens. He was born in Crestview, Florida, August 22, 1924, but grew up in Prattville, Alabama. Harry served in the United States Marine Corps in the South Pacific and the Philippines during WWII, for three years. He was a graduate of the University of Alabama. He married Margaret Hull in 1949. She preceded him in death in 2001. Harry resided

in Montgomery for 44 years. He retired from the Alabama Department of Revenue in 1982 having served 30 years. He was a charter member of the Prattville Dragoons camp of the Sons of Confederate veterans and a charter member of the Marine Corps League. He was an avid genealogist, and was a member of the Autauga County and Coosa County historical societies. In 2002, Harry and Katie Jo Scroggins married, resided in Rockford, Alabama. He is survived by his wife Katie Jo Scroggins; one daughter, Sabrina (Tony) Ferguson; one sister, Annette (Pat) Brownell; three sisters-in-law, Mattie (Ray) Hilgendorff, Virginia (Lamar) Rawlinson, and Anne (Karl) Rawlinson; four stepchildren, Wendell (Catherine) Scroggins, Marie (Buz) Walker, Kate (Dabo) Davis, Myriam (Richard) Brauckman; numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and many friends. Flowers are accepted or memorials may be sent to one’s favorite charity.

Mrs. Catherine S. Russell Mrs. Catherine S. Russell, 88, of Dadeville, AL passed away on Thursday, January 28, 2016 at Dadeville Health Care Center in Dadeville, AL. Funeral Services will be held on Monday, February 1, 2016, 1:00 p.m. CST at St. James Holiness Church in Dadeville, AL, Pastor George Dowdell; Officiating. Burial will follow at Dadeville City Cemetery in Dadeville, AL. Mrs. Russell is survived by one son, Melvin Russell, Jr., three daughters, Melissa (Dwight) Ross, Evangelist Pamela Russell and Co-Pastor Brenda (Pastor George) Dowdell, all of Dadeville, AL, stepson, Kelvin Bridges, a sister, Allie Mae Gilder, Sylacauga, AL, eight grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild, a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. To sign the online guest book and express condolences please visit www.silmonseroyerfh.com. Silmon-Seroyer Funeral Home in Lafayette, AL is handling the arrangements.

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Mr. Marcus J. Boyd, Jr. Mr. Marcus J. Boyd, Jr., 49, of Atlanta, GA, formerly of Dadeville, AL passed away on Monday, January 25, 2016 at his residence. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, January 30, 2016, 1:00 p.m. CST at Mt. Sinia Baptist Church in Waverly, AL, Rev. Corey Hughley, Jr., Pastor: Officiating; Rev. Eddie L. Hunter; Eulogist. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. Mr. Boyd is survived by his wife, Chivica Boyd of Atlanta, GA, five children: Zelenka Boyd Smith and Marquita Boyd, both of Dadeville, AL, M’Kyia Boyd

out because I’m so unhappy, and I know she is, too. I have tried everything. Please help me. -- STUCK IN A NIGHTMARE DEAR STUCK: It is time you realize that you can’t fix what’s wrong with this woman. Her insecurities are a bottomless pit. You have described a hostage relationship, not a loving one. So pack your things and get out of there NOW. If she threatens suicide and you know how to contact her family, alert them after you have gone. But do not pause, do not explain and do not look back. Your safety and your sanity depend upon it. Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby. com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

Mrs. Lillie “Marie” Owens Mrs. Lillie “Marie” Owens 88 of Alexander City AL died on Sunday, January 31, 2016 at Russell Medical Center, Alexander City, AL. Armour’s Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Benjamin H. Flowers Mr. Benjamin H. Flowers 63 of Alexander City AL died on Sunday, January 31, 2016 at Russell Medical Center, Alexander City, AL. Armour’s Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. and Jykin Christian, both of Atlanta, GA and Mercedez Christian of Texas, his mother and stepfather, Billie J. Hyatt (James Toney) of Dadeville, AL, his father, Marcus Boyd of Dadeville, AL, two sisters, Tracy (Chris) Glenn and Sharetha (James) Dorman, both of Dadeville, AL, five grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. To sign the online guest book and express condolences please visit www. silmonseroyerfh.com. Silmon-Seroyer Funeral Home in Lafayette, AL is handling the arrangements.

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 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.

each month at 5:30 p.m. at the town hall.

 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.

 Jackson’s Gap Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 6:30 p.m.

 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

 Goodwater City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held upstairs in the courthouse at 6:30 p.m.

 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.  Ray Water Authority meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Ray Water Authority Office. All customers are invited to attend.

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Green

continued from page 1

stones achieved by countless organizations, businesses, and individuals all across the state. “We’re proud to see an evolving commitment to the kind of sustainability practices that not only help support the endurance of our environment but also encourage enhanced quality of life for both current and future generations,” said Williams. Wind Creek State Park actually earned two mentions in the report. The park was among 10 in the state – along with DeSoto, Gulf, Joe Wheeler, Monte Sano, Cathedral Caverns, Cheaha, Chewacla, Lake Guntersville and Oak Mountain – to be awarded the 2015 Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor, a travel website featuring traveler-related content and reviews. Wind Creek also was among four state parks awarded grants for improvements or renovations. The park received a grant of $51,750 for new playground equipment. Renew Our Rivers was cited for its 16th year of cleanup of Alabama’s waterways, including Lake Martin and the Tallapoosa River. This year’s effort resulted in more than six tons of trash being removed from the Lake Martin and connected waterways. Renew Our Rivers began with one Alabama Power employee who had a vision to improve the health and beauty of the Coosa River near Plant Gadsden where he worked. Since the first community cleanups in 2000, Alabama Power employees and community volunteers have made a remarkable impact in protecting waterways in their communities through through the program, working together to remove hundreds of thousands of pounds from waterways across the Southeast each year. The annual Green Progress Report is divided into nine categories: Land

Conservation and Preservation; Environmental Education; Energy Efficiency; Transportation; Recycling and Cleanups; Parks Trails and Recreation; Building and Design; Corporate Sustainability; and Sustainability Progress and Initiatives. “It is our hope that the many of the featured accomplishments in this year’s report will inspire greater action for individual and collaborative involvement with future environmental and sustainable progress in Alabama,” said Natalie Kelly, President of Sustain, a strategy and media agency, and publishing partner of the Green Progress Report. The GRCA was founded in 2007 and has continued to serve local Alabama communities as an environmental nonprofit dedicated to educating and raising awareness for sustainability related efforts, projects, and initiatives in Alabama and throughout the Southeast. The nonprofit recently launched a newly designed website featuring the complete 2015 Green Progress Report, as well as past publications, in addition to information about several other GRCA led initiatives. Sometime this year, the GRCA will launch its newest initiative, EMERGE, a sustainability leadership project designed to educate and empower professionals to be better advocates within their companies and communities for smart, sustainable progress. GRCA) is a 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to enhance the quality of life throughout Alabama communities, and to inspire people to embrace more sustainable social, economic, and environmental practices. The GRCA aims to enlighten and educate the public, industry professionals, and policymakers about the many values associated with environmental stewardship.

Weather

continued from page 1

spoke with the group via conference call on Monday. “They’ve definitely backed off of the potential for any really impactful weather for us,” said Moran. “But that’s a good thing.” Rose said the potential for the most serious weather in the state exists north and west of the I-20 corridor. He also said there was a chance for the development of some “discrete supercell” thunderstorms out ahead of the front in a small area in east central Mississippi and west central Alabama. For Tallapoosa County and surrounding area, there remains a “limited threat” of tornadoes, winds of up to 60 mph and quarter-size hail thanks to wind shear and increasing instability in the atmosphere, but rain and thunderstorms with rain totaling just under one inch is more likely. As of Monday morning, Alexander City was likely to receive the brunt of the weather late Tuesday night into early Wednesday morning. Rose did stress that weather can be unpredictable and that residents should remain informed about the approaching front. Updates are available on the Internet at srh.noaa.gov/bmx, on the Birmingham NWS Facebook page and via Twitter at @NWSBirmingham.

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3617 US Hwy 280, Alexander City, AL 35010 continued from page 1

we are throwing at them.” The Southern Conference Regional will have some local flair to it as the Central Alabama Community College fishing team will be competing in it. A total of over 226 two-man team boats are expected to compete with most being in town all week.

If you want to watch, the boats are scheduled to leave daily from Wind Creek State Park at 6:30 a.m. with weigh-ins starting at 2:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday at the park and at 3:30 p.m. Saturday at Central Alabama Community College.

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Fish slow start. “It has been a fun experience,” said Etheredge who is competing in the college series for the first time this year. “We are super excited to get to participate.” Etheredge and Granger are starting to develop a plan. “It has not been as clear as we hoped for,” Etheredge said. “With weather coming in, it may change some things up. They are still hitting what

Page 3

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The Outlook

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Page 4

Our

Opinion

Local officials show they’re prepared

n the front page of today’s paper there is news of the potential of thunderstorms in our area, but this time it appears that the really violent stuff will not be headed to our area. That is great news. But something that may be lost in the weather forecast and meteorological terms is that if the really bad stuff was coming here, it appears that Tallapoosa County officials were as prepared as they could be. Friday afternoon when weather maps and models pointed to an event with the potential of severe weather, Tallapoosa County Emergency Management Agency Director Jason Moran set up a briefing for Monday. He called together meteorologists, first responders, governmental officials and the media to tell them all what to expect and make sure that everyone was on the same page. This time, no catastrophe is expected, but just knowing that the wheels were turning had to make you feel better. While we have no way of stopping such events, knowing that the people charged with keeping us safe are ready is reassuring. While large storms such as hurricanes, tornadoes and freak winter weather pack a punch, preparing for weather events is the message we need to consider year round. Whether it’s devastating wind damage, flooding or power outages, we don’t have to think back too far to know those things are possible at any time. So be prepared. So how do you prepare? Officials suggest that everyone keep a disaster supply kit in their homes in case basic services such as electricity, phone and gas are cut off. Make sure it includes items such as flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, a battery-operated radio and, of course, nonperishable, ready to eat foods that won’t take much to prepare. Statistics show that most weather-related deaths come when people do not heed warnings or advisories. Monday’s weather briefing shows that local officials are doing their part, now we all need to do our part to keep ourselves safe as well. Stay informed and prepared. Your safety depends on it.

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.

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 334-242-7300, and his office is located at 501 Washington Avenue, Montgomery.

Robert Bentley

Luther Strange

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 Mark Tuggle located at 110 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 Tom Whatley at 334-242-t7865. His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn.

Outlook The

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Here’s to the ‘Lake Martin Community Spirit’

n my high school years the “Most School Spirit” award was usually presented to one of the cute cheerleaders who could jump the highest and yell the loudest. I am extremely happy these traits were not included in the selection criteria by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce for choosing this year’s winner of the Community Spirit award. I am neither a jumper nor a yeller, but I do love and work hard for our Lake Martin Community, which to me encompasses a large portion of 3 counties and is drawn together by its most valuable asset, Alabama’s only Treasured Lake Martin. Winning this award reassures me that I am not alone in this belief and the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce has similar feelings. Chamber President Ann Rye has done an outstanding job and absolutely deserves the recognition of Business Person of the Year. She has dared to dream big and work hard in delivering tremendous success stories over her brief time in the community. She has been an inspiration to all

JOHN THOMPSON Guest Columnist

of us. The Lake Martin Community needs big dreamers. We are truly blessed to have all of the resources needed to continue to build and sustain a strong economy in the coming years. Most of our attractions are very visible and attract many visitors year round; Children’s Harbor, Smith Tower, Kowaliga, Stillwaters, Harold Banks Canoe Trail, CRATA Hiking, New Water Ministries, Willow Point, Springhouse Restaurant just to name a few. As a community we need to support local businesses as well as these wonderful attractions by doing everything within our power to make certain visitors have a great experience and leave our community with a positive impression. It’s like a visit to Yellowstone or any of

our National Parks. You don’t see littered highways driving to see “Old Faithful” or beer cans scattered along the Lake Tahoe shoreline. We need to dream big and find ways to eliminate our litter problem. It is much too important and it will not go away unless we work together through educational efforts and cleanup projects. I am not a jumper or a yeller but I am committed to continuing to work towards eliminating illegal dump sites, reducing roadside and shoreline litter, improving boating safety, and protecting Lake Martin water quality and quantity. It is great to have the support of LMRA Board members who share these same goals. It is an honor to receive the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Community Spirit Award and I am very appreciative of all who dream big and are willing to work hard for the “betterment” of the Lake Martin Community. John Thompson Lake Martin

Today’s

Quote

“Happiness is not a matter of intensity but of balance, order, rhythm and harmony. ” –Thomas Merton

Today’s

Scripture “Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.” –Romans 15:7

alexcityoutlook.com

Daily Poll Weekend Question: Do you think the personal conduct of elected officials should be an issue?

Yes - 20 No - 3

Tuesday Question: Does your family have an emergency weather preparedness plan? To participate in this daily poll, log on each day to www.alexcityoutlook.com and vote. Find out the vote totals in the next edition of The Outlook and see if your vote swayed the results.

Our

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

How to

Evaluating teachers with test scores defies logic

s the years roll along, those of us who qualify as “seniors” have the benefit of viewing things through a lens that includes far more life experiences than those who are our junior. Some call it “wisdom.” I prefer to call it “common sense.” And one of the things this common sense has taught me is that the most dangerous people in the world are those who don’t know what they don’t know. It is no sin to not know something. However, it is a sin to try and bluff your way through a situation when you clearly are in way over your head. If I’ve ever seen a case where this is applicable, it’s the next major piece of education policy legislation in the pipeline for the February legislative session known as the Rewarding Advancement in Instruction and Student Excellence (RAISE) Act of 2016. This bill has more holes in it than a Swiss cheese. Time after time it defies logic and ignores good research. The bill emphasizes using standardized testing and evaluating teachers on their student’s tests scores. At long last educators have gotten out from the tentacles of No Child Left Behind, which had us worship at the altar of testing. Now Alabama’s super majority leadership wants to make sure we go right back there. The professional education society, Phi Delta Kappa and the Gallup polling organiza-

LARRY LEE Guest Columnist

tion have been surveying the American public for 47 years as to how they look at public education and what is meaningful to them. The most recent poll was released last September and sampled more than 4,500 people. Guess what? The public puts very little stock in using tests as a benchmark of education quality. In fact, testing came in last as a measure of effectiveness with just 14 percent of parents rating test scores as very important, behind how engaged students are with their class work, The percent students who feel hopeful about their future, percent of students who graduate from high school, percent of high school graduates who go to college or community college, percent of graduates who get jobs immediately after completing high school. When asked what is the most important way to improve public schools, 95 percent said teachers were the most important factor. Using tests to measure what students have learned again came in last with only 19 percent saying it is important. What provides the most accurate picture of a public school student’s academic

progress? No. 1 is example of student work, No. 2 is written observations by the teacher, No. 3 is grades awarded by the teacher and No. 4 is scores on standardized tests. Some 55 percent oppose using standardized test scores in teacher evaluations. But this is what RAISE wants to do. Pollsters wanted to know the three most important factors considered when a parent is choosing a local public school for their child. The top three were quality of teachers, curriculum and student discipline. The three least important were proximity of the school to the workplace, success of athletic programs and student achievement as measured by standardized tests. It is also noteworthy that 57 percent oppose allowing parents to choose a private school to attend at public expense. Which of course is what the Alabama Accountability Act does. But considering that the same folks pushing RAISE are the same folks who passed the accountability act, our lawmaker’s insistence on swimming upstream is understandable. After all, if you don’t know what you don’t know... Larry Lee led the study Lessons Learned from Rural Schools and is a longtime advocate for public education. larrylee133@gmail.com. Read his blog: larryeducation. com

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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Opinion?

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

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Tuesday, February 2, 2016

The Outlook

CommunityCalendar

Submit calendar items:

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

Today is

February 2, 2016 SERVING LUNCH IN THE CAFĂ&#x2030;

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Events

There are no events for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s calendar.

Tuesday - Saturday 11am-1:30pm

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anniversaries

James and Viola Beeker, Modesta and Burnon Gravette, Dr. and Mrs. Runas Powers are celebrating their anniversary today.

Page 5

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Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Birthdays

Dot Caldwell, Shantay Harry, Erica Hutcherson, Doris Owens, and Will Meadows are celebrating their birthdays today.

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HOLLEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOME FURNISHINGS

We Dare You To Compare! 1660 Hwy. 22 West Alexander City, AL

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Need Insurance? Call me.

256.234.3481 KarenChannell.com

Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services â&#x20AC;˘Physical Therapy â&#x20AC;˘Occupational Therapy â&#x20AC;˘Speech Therapy 2334 Washington Street Alexander City â&#x20AC;˘ 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com

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

SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

The FANS HEAR You!

Submitted / The Outlook

If you are up for pancakes, you will have several chances at them over the next few weeks. The Dadeville Kiwanis Club is hosting a pancake breakfast Feb. 6 and t he Alexander City Kiwanis Club is hosting its annual pancake breakfast Feb. 20 in the BRHS cafeteria.

February 3

MONTHLY LUNCHEON: The Bibb Graves School will host its monthly luncheon Feb. 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring a covered dish.

February 4

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL REGISTRATION: The Alexander City Baseball/Softball Registration will be at Radney Elementary School Thursday, Feb. 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Cost is $75. Late registration will be Monday, Feb. 8 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Sportplex Baseball Tower at a cost of $100. BASEBALL SOFTBALL TBALL REGISTRATION: Dadevile Dixie Youth will have registration for baseball, softball and t-ball Feb. 4 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. 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 childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth certificate must be presented at registration.

February 5

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL REGISTRATION: The Alexander City Baseball/Softball Registration will be at Radney Elementary School Friday, Feb. 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Cost is $75. Late registration will be Monday, Feb. 8 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Sportplex Baseball Tower at a cost of $100. SOCCER REGISTRATION: Alexander City Youth Soccer will host registration Feb. 5 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m at the Sportplex Gym.

February 6

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL REGISTRATION: The Alexander City Baseball/Softball Registration will be at Radney Elementary School Saturday, Feb. 6 from 8 a.m. to noon. Cost is $75. Late registration will be Monday, Feb. 8 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Sportplex Baseball Tower at a cost of $100. DADEVILLE KIWANIS PANCAKE BREAKFAST: Sat. Feb. 6 from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. the Dadeville Kiwanis Club is having a pancake breakfast for $6. Tickets are available all over town. BASEBALL SOFTBALL TBALL REGISTRATION: Dadevile Dixie Youth will have registration for baseball, softball and t-ball Feb. 6 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 childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth certificate must be presented at registration. VALENTINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BASH: A Youth Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Bash for ages 5-18 will be held Saturday, February 6, 2016 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the Cooper Rec. Center. Buy your tickets in advance for $5.00 or at the door for $7.00. Refreshments included with the ticket price. Special Guest DJ and Photographer. Sponsored by the Parents of Regeneration Dance Team. Advanced tickets can be purchased by calling Elizabeth Harris at 256750-2025.

February 7

Small Space Advertising Works! call the

Advertising Dept.

256.234.4281

PASTOR ANNIVERSARY: New Harmony Missionary Baptist Church in Camp Hill will celebrate itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 7th Pastorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anniversary honoring Rev. and Sister Melvin C. Kelley, Jr. Sunday, Feb. 7 at 2 p.m.

February 8

HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Troy Jones will be the speaker for

Horizons Unlimited Feb. 8 at the Alexander City Board of Education from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. BASEBALL SOFTBALL TBALL REGISTRATION: Dadevile Dixie Youth will have registration for baseball, softball and t-ball Feb. 8 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. 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 childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth certificate must be presented at registration.

February 9

BASEBALL SOFTBALL TBALL REGISTRATION: Dadevile Dixie Youth will have registration for baseball, softball and t-ball Feb. 9 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. 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 childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth certificate must be presented at registration.

February 10

IMPOSITION OF ASHES: Alexander City First United Methodist Church and Flint Hill United Methodist Church will have drive thru imposition of ashes at the old Mandolin Cafe on Cherokee Road Feb. 10 from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m.

February 11

BASEBALL SOFTBALL TBALL REGISTRATION: Dadevile Dixie Youth will have registration for baseball, softball and t-ball Feb. 11 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. 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 childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth certificate must be presented at registration.

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 334-868-1140 or go to wetumpkadepot.com.

MEETING: The Artist Association of East Alabama will meet Feb. 16 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the United Way Conference Room.

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.

Call 256-234-4281 or stop by our ofĂ&#x161;ce at 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL

FOOT Specialties

Dr. Douglas Stewart Alexander City, AL

256-215-5596 American Board of Podiatric Surgery CertiÂżed Diabetic Shoes Hospital Surgeries Total Nail Care Hammertoes, Bunions, Corns and Calluses Sports Injuries

How to add a calendar item:

February 22

Participate in your

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 non-campers.

Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892

By e-mailing your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or call 256-234-4281. _____ Send your news items to editor@alexcityoutlook.com

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. Need your business to

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.

February 13

VALENTINEâ&#x20AC;?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 childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birth certificate must be presented at registration.

February 16

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.

STAND OUT from the crowd?

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256.234.4281

March 15

MEETING: The Artist Association of East Alabama will meet March 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the United Way Conference Room.

March 19

EGG HUNT: Wind Creek State Park will host an Easter Egg Hunt March 19 at 10 a.m. in the North Picnic area. There will be prize eggs. For ages under 2, 2 to 4 5 to 8 and 9 to 12.

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Alexander City Outlook Dadeville Record Wetumpka Herald Eclectic Observer Tallassee Tribune

Season Speaks

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.

Express Blowout â&#x20AC;˘ Highlight Ombre â&#x20AC;˘ Gloss â&#x20AC;˘ Color Make-Up â&#x20AC;˘ Keratin Adult & Children Hair Cuts Bridal & Bachelorette Packages 792 Commerce Drive Suite 103 Alexander City, AL

256.234.2007 256.749.8804

Page 6

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Tuesday, February 2, 2016

The Outlook

Happy Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day is celebrated every year on February 14. It is a holiday that was named in honor of Saint Valentine. It is sometimes referred to as the Day of Love. Generally, it is a romantic holiday, but many people now consider it to be a fun holiday for everyone. Kids tell their friends and family members how much they mean to them. Cards and gifts are given to loved ones to show love and appreciation for them. School children often bring small cards to hand out to all their classmates on Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Hearts and the colors red and pink often symbolize the holiday. Red roses DUH WKH PRVW SRSXODU Ă&#x20AC;RZHU JLYHQ RQ WKLV GD\ +HDUW VKDSHG ER[HV IXOO RI VPDOO FKRFRlate candies are also popular. Another notable Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day candy is Conversation Candies. These small candy hearts have different sayings on them that have changed RYHU WKH \HDUV WR ÂżW WKH WLPHV *UHHWLQJ FDUGV DUH SHUKDSV WKH PRVW FRPPRQ JLIW JLYHQ to the one you love or even to friends. Many plan special meals on this day as a way to spend time with someone they love. While Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day is a fun day, remember that it is important to show everyone love and kindness each and every day.

Hearts & Boxes Game

Find 5 Differences With The Love Birds

Each player takes a turn to draw a line from one heart to DQRWKHU :KHQ D SOD\HU FRPSOHWHV D ER[ VXFK DV WKH RQH below, he is allowed another turn. If a playerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s turn allows KLP WR PDNH VHYHUDO ER[HV LQ D URZ KH FDQ NHHS SOD\LQJ XQWLO KH FDQQRW FRPSOHWH DQRWKHU ER[ ,QLWLDO HDFK ER[ \RX FUHDWH 7KH SHUVRQ ZLWK WKH PRVW ER[HV ZLQV

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Candy, Card, < < < < < < < < Chocolate, < < < < < < < < < Family, Flowers, < < < < < < < < < Friend, Gift, Color the picture below. Then cut it Heart, out and paste it onto a homemade Kindness, card for someone you love. Love, Pink, Red, Saint, Sweetheart, Valentine

Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Word Find Circle the words hidden in the puzzle below.

Color It!

How Many Words Can You _____________ Spell From _____________ _____________ The Word _____________ _____________ Valentine? _____________ _____________

S N R F

F A G X C L

E R I H B H N O T

B C I N R A O X X W L

S Z E T J P C M L F E F

J E N M I R O C H O Y R

I D Z L G L B P A K Z S

R T R A E H T E E W S

E M T T H E A R T E Y

Q U D E V M D R A C J

L S S E N D N I K Z T F

Z H H E N I T N E L A V

V Y L I M A F J Y T L L

H G E V O L C F Q C L

X I F Y D N A C J

S F K N I P

O T E T

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DOWEE WE

Brown Nursing Home

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Ivy Creek Medical Equipment 256.825.0667

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YOUR LAKE MARTIN CHEVY DEALER Full Service Tire Center â&#x20AC;˘ Free Estimates Parts, Service & Body Shop 17488 Hwy. 280, Dadeville, AL 256-825-4201 www.mckelveychevrolet.com

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FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law 135 N. Tallassee Street â&#x20AC;˘ Dadeville, AL

8:00-4:00 Mon.-Fri â&#x20AC;˘ By Appt.(Except Emergencies) 256-234-4295 â&#x20AC;˘ After Hours 256-329-7100

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859 Airport Drive â&#x20AC;˘ Alexander City, AL

Fun Carts of Opelika

618 Lee Rd. Opelika, AL 334.745.0560 â&#x20AC;˘ www.funcarts.net JIM HADAWAY, OWNER

Open Monday-Friday 8AM__ -6 PM Saturday 8AM-12PM (256) 215-8014

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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 â&#x20AC;˘ AL License #99129

DRIVERS NEEDED

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J&M TANK LINES, INC. jmtankjobs.com or call Jeff Sandlin @ 256-245-3933

Mother Goose

Child Development Center Se habla espaĂąol 645 Scott Road â&#x20AC;˘ Alexander City

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Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Pearl of those coaches are still alive, including Pearl. Those who finished 25th or lower in the first round of voting by the fans on the ESPN promotional website were eliminated. As a member of the top 24, Pearl has already earned $8,500 for Children’s Harbor. The field will be cut to 16 by fan’s voting after Feb. 14. Pearl stands at 22nd and needs your vote to advance and earn an additional $10,000 for Children’s Harbor. Fans can go to promo.espn.go.com/espn/ contests/infiniti/2016/index?next=home to cast their vote. Pearl can also win an additional $15,000 by advancing to the Final Four and the grand prize of $100,000 by finishing as the Challenge’s top vote-getter. “I am very impressed with Coach Pearl’s commitment to helping the families we serve,” Myrle Grate, chief executive officer for Children’s Harbor said. “He uses his celebrity clout to raise awareness and support for our ministry. Children’s Harbor is grateful for his generous support. “When he first came to Auburn, he wanted to unite with a local charity. He has a large philanthropic vision and always has. After he did his own research through individuals and people in the area, the felt like one of the most uplifting charities was Children’s Harbor. Since then he’s been a wonderful partner with us. He will often have groups he speaks to make their checks out to Children’s Harbor.” Grate said that Brandy Pearl has proven a terrific partner, as well. “Brandy has been supporting our Snacks and Strokes Art Program at the Chidren’s Harbor Family Center in Birmingham,” Grate said. “So she’s proven a wonderful ambassador, too.” Other coaches still alive in the challenge along with Pearl, include Oregon’s Dana Altman, Tennessee’s Rick Barnes.

Council That’s just not right. “You were elected to take care of all of us, but seems like you are looking out for yourselves.” The council was listening. “I agree with them,” Council member Bobby Tapley said. “We passed it and I stand by my vote.” Council member Tony Goss said that when you give someone your word, you should stick by it. He said that to take back the increases would be breaking a promise to employees. Bob Howard agreed. “We did pass that,” Howard said. “The budget process – it’s not perfect by any means. Shame on me for not looking closer and realizing it before we voted. But it’s in the budget. I hate to take something back after we’ve given it to them.” The council denied the motion to roll back the increases that were given, with all six members voting no. The move to freeze the salaries to await the finding of the pay study also passed 6-0. “I know there are others that think they have an issue and they may have a point,” Council President Jim Spann. “The bottom line is those didn’t make it into the budget.” The meeting didn’t pass with at least a little more talk about golf course funds. When questioned by Goss on the progress of the audit into the questions of checks written to Lakewinds Golf Course that were apparently never processed through the bank, Mayor Charles Shaw said auditors

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Michigan John Beilein, Virginia’s Tony Bennett, Colorado’s Tad Boyle, Clemson’s Brad Brownell, Gonzaga’s Mark Tew, West Virginia’s Bob Huggins, Oklahoma’s Lon Kruger, Wake Forest’s Danny Manning, Wichita State’s Gregg Marshall, Ohio State’s Thad Matta, Iowa’s Fran McCaffery, Creighton’s Greg McDermott, Dayton’s Archie Miller, Arizona’s Sean Miller, Connecticut’s Kevin Ollie, Purdue’s Matt Painter, Iowa State’s Steve Prohm, BYU’s Dave Rose, Stephen F. Austin’s Brad Underwood, Marquette’s Steve Wojciechowski and Villanova’s Jay Wright. Currently, Pearl is 21st in the standings, but needs only a few votes to vault into the Top 16. Fans may vote once per day and voting for the Top 16 ends on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14. In addition to participating in the Charity Challenge, which is sponsored by Infiniti and the National Association of Basketball Coaches, Pearl and his wife have also partnered with Children’s Harbor to host the annual Fore the Children Charity Golf Tournament, held for the second year in October at Willow Point Golf and Country Club. In its two years, the tournament has resulted in raising a total of more than $500,000 for Children’s Harbor. Over 4,000 campers with illnesses including cancer, spina bifida, autism and transplants will attend camp at Children’s Harbor’s Lake Martin campus free of charge each year. The Children’s Harbor Family Center at the Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children in Birmingham is directly connected to the state-of-the-art hospital and serves children and their families through activities and recreation, counseling, education, respite and other supportive services during and after hospitalization. All services are free and provided by a professional team.

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will be on site today. The accounting firm of Carr Riggs and Ingram has been contracted to do a full audit of city finances and look into the issues with golf course deposit irregularities. “They have been going over the information we sent to them and they will be here (Tuesday) to meet with (Finance Director) Sandra (Machen) and (Parks Director) Sonny (Wilson) to talk to them about it,” Shaw said. He declined to elaborate on what information the firm had already received from the city. The council also: • Voted 5-1 to approve funds for a new phone system using voice over internet technology at the Public Works Automotive Repair and Maintenance Shop. • Rescinded, by a 6-0 vote, a resolution passed in December that would have funded street lights at Sunny Level Cutoff and Knight Road. Councilman Billy Ray Wall said the cost of operating those lights made the project cost prohibitive. • By a 6-0 vote, authorized the mayor to enter into agreements for sewer maintenance. • Approved by a 6-0 vote changes to a contract for the Robinson Road Sewer project. The project requires slightly more materials than originally thought. • Approved by a 6-0 vote a request from Vertical Point Church to hold The Run to the Son Color Run on March 23.

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Tuesday, February 2, 2016

The Outlook

Ongoing Events

Submitted / The Outlook

Winners of the recent Tallapoosa County 4-H Clover Cook-oﬀ pose for a photograph. The contest featured a baked foods exhibit and chef demonstrations.

Tallapoosa County 4-Hers show off cooking skills SHANE HARRIS Tallapoosa County Extension Agent

Despite the cold weather, we had a great turn out last Saturday for the 2016 County 4-H Clover Cook-off, which featured the Baked Foods Exhibit and Chef 4-H Demonstration contests. There were lots of wonderful cookies, cakes and breads on display. And let me tell you that these kids can cook! Congratulations to all our winners and participants from Horseshoe Bend School, Reeltown High School, Dadeville Elementary School; Councill Middle School, Radney Elementary School, and Stephens Elementary School.

County Baked Foods Exhibit (Jr)

Submitted / The Outlook

Horseshoe Bend’s Kayli Grace James, above, poses for a photograph after winning the junior baked foods exhibit. Below, Horseshoe Bend’s Mary Carol Rasbury and Councill Middle School’s Blake Harris placed first and second in the Chef demonstration.

1st place - Kayli Grace James (HBHS) 2nd Place – Bethany Kilpatrick (Reeltown) 3rd place – Brook Milner (HBHS)

County Baked Foods Exhibit (Intermediate)

1st place – Jayden Siggers (Councill) 2nd Place – Mary Carol Rasbury (HBHS)

County Baked Foods Exhibit (Sr II)

1st place – Cora Blue (DHS)

Best Cookie – Skylar Gordan (Reeltown) Best Cake - Kaylie Grace James (HBHS) Best Bread – Leann Ruplinger (DES)

Top 9 Year Olds – Baked Foods Exhibit

1st place – Adam Ward (DES) 2nd place – Keegan Sharpe (HBHS)

Top 10 Year Olds – Baked Foods Exhibit

1st place – Kayli Grace James (HBHS) 2nd place – Bethany Kilpatrick (Reeltown) 3rd place – Allison Fuller (Reeltown)

Top 11 Year Olds – Baked Foods Exhibit

1st place – Brook Milner (HBHS) 2nd place - Skylar Gordan (Reeltown) 3rd place – Emily Thigpen (Reeltown)

County Chef 4- H Demonstration (Intermediate)

1st place – Mary Carol Rasbury (HBHS) 2nd Place – Blake Harris

Submitted / The Outlook

Reeltown’s Bethany Kilpatrick poses for a photograph after placing second in the junior baked foods exhibit and second in the top 10 years olds baked foods exhibit.

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TAX FILING ASSISTANCE: Starting Jan. 25 there will be free tax and electronic tax filing assistance at Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama. IRS certified volunteers will provide free assistance to seniors over 60 with no income limit and those under age 60 with incomes less than $54,000. Taxpayers will be assisted in the order they are registered. You need to bring last year’s tax return, photo ID Social Security Cards, W-2’s, 1099’s and SSA. If you have insurance through the government marketplace, bring your 1095-A. All employed taxpayers should bring a copy of their year end pay stub. Dates for VCCA are Jan. and Feb. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., March on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and April 1 to April 18 Mondays Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. DISNEY WORLD TRIP: The Learning Community Outreach Initiative is sponsoring a trip to Disney World March 20-24. All who are interested should contact Rico Kelly at 256-794-0397 or Wanda Zachery at 256794-3365. WOMAN MEETING: Every first Sunday, Victory Temple Holiness Church hosts a woman’s meeting, at 237 Aster St. in Dadeville. Everyone is invited. The meeting starts at 2 p.m. READY TO WORK: Ready to Work is a FREE jobs skills training program offered at Central Alabama Community College Career Center. Classes meet Monday through 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 @ 256-2154494 and ask about the WIOA program. Most all dislocated workers automatically qualify for financial assistance. The program is 52 weeks and is open entry/open exit. Students learn at their own pace in a non-traditional classroom setting. Classes begin when students are approved and they may leave when they receive any or all of the certificates offered. Classes are Monday--Thursday, 8:00 a.m.--3:00 p.m. (with a lunch break). All textbooks and class materials are supplied. Certificates available are receptionist, inventory clerk, data entry clerk, administrative assistant, accounting office clerk, medical office clerk, legal office clerk. CELEBRATE RECOVERY: Celebrate Recovery is a Christcentered ministry designed to help hurting people. It is made up of regular folks who are on a journey toward wholeness; seeking recovery from life’s hurts, habits, and hang-ups. We meet every Monday at Vertical Point Church, 860 Airport Drive, Alex City. We begin with dinner at 5:45, followed by large group at 6:15 & small groups at 7:15. Childcare is provided. Everyone is welcome. For more info, call Mike at 256496-4664. BEYOND TRANSFORMATIONS: Meetings every second Saturday. Have you been wanting to give back, work with youth, or be a part of a group that makes a difference? Please email iamtransforms@gmail. com or Call at 334-4406539. Donations of clothes, food, books, computers, school supplies. A building and donations are needed. AMERICAN LEGION: Post 339 in Cottage Grove is open every Friday night from 8 p.m. until with fried chicken and fish. Music from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

SCV MEETING:The Sons of Confederate Veterans meets every third Tuesday night at 7 p.m. at J.R.’s Sports Bar & Grill. Visitors are welcome. BIBLE STUDY: Come join the Auburn Woman’s Satellite Day Bible Study Fellowship. We’re currently registering ladies interested in studying Revelations. The course, study guides, seminars and lecture notes are free. This is interdenominational and open to all women at Parkway Baptist Church Holliday Hall, 766 East University Drive, Auburn. We meet on Thursdays from 10 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. We will love to have you there. Bible knowledge is not required. Come learn, share, and fellowship. For further information, contact Tricia at 334-546-1386. For further information on Bible Study Fellowship go to https://www.bsfinternational.org. AMATEUR RADIO CLUB: The Lake Martin Amateur Radio Club meets from 6 to 7 p.m. the second Thursday of every month at the Alexander City Airport Terminal Building with dinner and fellowship following at a local area restaurant. Amateur radio license exams are available after the meeting by prior arrangement. The club also meets on the air (Alabama Emergency Net Victor) on the first, third, fourth and fifth Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. on the club sponsored K4YWE repeater at 145.33 mhz with the 146.96 repeater as backup. All interested can attend our meetings or contact Tim Mayfield K4CWL at 256-329-1172 or John Phillips WI4P at 256212-4063 CAR SHOW: Lake Martin Street Rods and Classic Cars meet every 3rd Saturday at Buck’s Dairy Quick in Alexander City from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Call Danny at (256) 4960024 for more information. TALLAPOOSA PATRIOTS: The Tallapoosa Patriots meet the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Professional Commons. For more information contact Sherry Sellers at thyra899@gmail. com or at 256-234-2528. DEMENTIA SUPPORT GROUP: The Emily Gilbert Dementia Support Group for family and caregivers meets the third Monday of every month in the community room at Russell Medical Center from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. It is sponsored by the Russell Medical Auxiliary. For more information call volunteer services office at 256-329-7177. FREE SUPPORT GROUP: GriefShare, a grief recovery support group, will meet each Tuesday from 6 until 8 p.m. at the Reception Center of Radney Funeral Home in Alexander City. There is also a meeting on Tuesday at the Tallapoosa County Baptist Association from 10 a.m. to noon. This seminar is offered without cost to participants, and sponsored by Radney Funeral Home and Rocky Creek Baptist Church. For further information and registration, call Larry Cummings at 256-397-2511. WEIGHT WATCHERS: The group meets each Monday evening in the fellowship hall of First United Methodist Church on Green Street in Alexander City. The Fellowship Hall is located behind the sanctuary. Registration is 5- 5:30 p.m. Meeting is 5:30-6 p.m. New members will want to stay after the meeting for a 15-minute Weight Watchers orientation. MUSIC AT EQUALITY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts music and other events on the second and fourth Friday nights of each month at 6:30 p.m. on Alabama Highway 9 in Equality. Country/Western, bluegrass, Southern gospel and instrumental music featured. For more information, contact Wayne Glenn at 334-541-3302. HOUSE OF RESTORATION PENTACOSTAL, INC.: Pastor Doris Patterson, 519 Slaughter Road in Camp Hill. Prayer is Monday at noon every week. Wednesday Bible Study at noon and Sunday School at 10 a.m. and worship at 11 a.m. For more information, contact 256749-7666.

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

The Outlook

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Page 11

State unveils electronic voter registration STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

On Monday, Secretary of State John Merrill announced that the state of Alabama has launched efforts to implement Electronic Voter Registration. Alabama’s Electronic Voter Registration aims to save taxpayer dollars, increase the accuracy of voter rolls and provide a convenient yet secure option for Alabamians who wish to register or update their information. Voters now have the ability to register via the Secretary of State’s website (www.alabamavotes.gov). Once their online registration has been completed, a paperless form

is submitted electronically to the Board of Registrars in their home county. “One of the most fundamental rights we as Americans are afforded is our right to vote,” said Merrill. “It is incumbent upon us as election officials to leverage technology wherever we can to facilitate the voting process. We want every eligible Alabamian to be afforded the right to vote, as well as participate in the electoral process, and the new implementation of Electronic Voting Registration will allow them to do so.” “Upon entering office, I looked for ways to make it easier for our citizens to register to vote. Based on that, I instructed our Information Technology and Elections staff

to provide Alabamians an enhanced access to voter registration services at the least cost to the state, while also ensuring that the integrity standards we have are continued and strengthened.” “This certainly is a historic day in Alabama, and as long as I have the privilege to serve our citizens as their Secretary of State, I will do everything within my power to ensure all eligible Alabamians are able to exercise their right to vote.” To submit an application to register to vote, citizens must meet the following requirements: a citizen of the United States, residency in the State of Alabama, at least 18 years of age on or before election day,

cannot be barred from voting by reason of a disqualifying felony conviction, and cannot have been judged “mentally incompetent” in a court of law. In addition to those requirements, citizens must have a valid Alabama Driver’s License or valid Alabama NonDriver’s Identification card to submit an Electronic Voter Registration Application. For the March 1st Primary Election, the last day to apply for voter registration through the electronic application is Feb. 15. For more information, please contact the Secretary of State’s Office at 334-242-7200 or visit our website at www.sos.alabama. gov/.

Survey: Alabama No. 10 in states dependent on gun industry With President Barack Obama’s executive orders on gun control and recent changes to state gun legislations, the personal finance website WalletHub conducted an in-depth analysis of 2016’s States Most Dependent on the Gun Industry. The study survey found Alabama is the 10th most dependent state on the gun industry. Idaho ranked No. 1, followed by Alaska, Montana, South Dakota and Arkansas in the top five. Two of the most telling stats in the survey were that Alabama ranks No. 1 in gun-control contributions to congressional members per capita, eighth in gun ownership and third in background checks per capita. To determine which states depend most on the arms and ammunitions industry both directly for jobs and political contributions and indirectly through firearm ownership, WalletHub’s analysts compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across eight key metrics. Alabama’s Dependence on the Gun Industry (1=Most Dependent; 25=Avg.) • 23rd – Total Taxes Paid by the Firearms Industry per Capita • 8th – Gun Ownership • 3rd – NICS Background Checks per Capita • 1st – Gun-Control Contributions to Congressional Members per Capita • 16th – Gun-Rights Contributions to Congressional Members per Capita For the full report, visit: http://wallethub.com/edu/states-most-dependent-on-the-gunindustry/18719/

Submitted / The Outlook

Everyone Dig In! Below, Biloxi Crepe Myrtles being planted in the Central Drive median near River Bank. Left to right: Barbara Barnes (holding Arbor Day proclamation from Mayor Shaw), Ryan Adamson, Megan Benson, Larry Bates, Jarod Wellborn, Jacob Meacham, Richard Wagoner. Taking picture: Ray Peacock. Ten Biloxi Crepe Myrtles were also planted on Circle Drive and four Red Maples were planted for the Parks and Recreation Department at the baseball building in the Sportplex. Left, above, From left to right Wellborn, Meacham, Adamson, Peacock, Wagoner, Bates, Neighbors, Barnes, and Benson in action planting trees and posing for a photo with the finished product.

Governor Bentley to deliver State of the State address tonight at 6 p.m. Governor Robert Bentley will deliver the annual State of the State Address to the Alabama Legislature today at 6:30 p.m. in the Old House Chamber of the State Capitol. Bentley has invited three special guests to the speech, and will recognize their work in various fields. • CPT Clayton Hinchman, USA (Ret) is the Founder, President and CEO, of USi in Huntsville. USi is an emerging small business providing expert operations management and IT services. He served in the United States Army as an Infantry Officer and medically retired as a captain due to wounds sustained during an improvised explosive attack while conducting a night raid in Iraq. Governor Bentley will recognize Clayton’s service to our country and his dedication to support and hire veterans. • Miracle Scott is a senior at Eufaula High School, and was one of the first students to enroll in Alabama’s Voluntary Pre-K Program. Miracle is on track to receive the Seal of Academic Excellence Diploma in May, and has been accepted to attend Auburn University in the Fall. Governor Bentley will highlight Miracle as a shining example of the importance of Pre-K education. • Dr. John Waits is the founder of Cahaba Medical Care and serves as Chief Medical Officer and program director, as well as maintaining an active clinical practice in family medicine and obstetrics. Governor Bentley will recognize Dr. Waits’ efforts in advocating for family medicine and graduate medical education issues.

Service at Auburn’s Bailey Small Animal Hospital earns top rating The Emergency and Critical Care Service in the Wilford and Kate Bailey Small Animal Teaching Hospital at the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine has become the first service in Alabama to earn a Level I rating by the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society. Level I is the highest rating awarded to a veterinary emergency and critical care facility by the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society, which promotes the advancement of knowledge and high standards of practice in veterinary emergency medicine and critical patient care. The certification is for two years. “It’s an honor to receive this certification, and to be acknowledged at this level of performance,” said Dr. Lenore Bacek, an assistant clinical professor and head of the Emergency and Critical Care Service. “It also shows the level of hard work and dedication that our faculty, technicians and administrators give to make our service successful.”

Auburn University researchers using drones to assess crop health The agriculture industry has seen many advances in farming over the decades, from mule and plow to high tech tractors and equipment—and now unmanned aircraft systems, or UAS. Auburn University precision agriculture researchers are using the aircraft to monitor crop health over large acreages; it’s a method that lets farmers quickly address potential trouble spots. “Precision agriculture techniques enable the producer to apply things like fertilizer and herbicide only where they are needed, which helps increase yields and profits for agribusiness,” said Steve Taylor, head of Auburn’s Department of Biosystems Engineering. “These tools are having a major impact in many areas, not only for agricultural crops but also for better management of our forests.” The unmanned aircraft systems, or drones, are programmed to fly over a specific agricultural area and capture digital images and data with various types of cameras or sensors. After the flight, researchers download the data onto a computer so they can see potential trouble spots, such as moisture stress in plants, diseases that might be developing or a nutrition issue. The data is transferred into GPS-guided ground equipment that can deliver resources — water, pesticides and fertilizer—precisely where they are needed.

Study Club gets lesson on Horseshoe Bend Military Park of Horseshoe Bend. General Andrew Jackson described the place where on March 27, The Tuesday Study Club 1814, 3,300 Tennessee milimet on Jan. 12 at the home of tia, U.S. Regulars, and allied Mrs. Eleanor Childers. warriors under his command The meeting was called defeated 1,000 Red Sticks led to order by President Mrs. by Chief Menawa. The Battle Margaret Fuller. Mrs. Marsha of Horseshoe Bend ended the Bankston, presented a devoCreek Indian War, and the tional of “Wisdom” that peace treaty added 23 milwere quotes from American lion acres of Creek land to the Indians. southeastern United States. Our guest speaker for our This victory was the first meeting was Ranger Vestor step on the road to national Marable, of Horseshoe Bend fame and the White House for Military. He was introduced General Jackson. by Mrs. Edith Blankenship. Ranger Marable combined Ranger Marable is a native the interesting history of the of Tuskegee and a graduate of Battle itself with a description Tuskegee University. of the park as it is today. He He was very knowledgeable gave each of us a beautiful about the history of the Battle brochure of Horseshoe Bend By JERRI ANN HALLMARK Tuesday Study Club

and a patch picturing the bend in the river that looks like a horseshoe. Following the presentation, a business meeting included: A. A Treasurer’s report, with the balance of $777.57, less a check for $220, which has not cleared. B. A report from the Nominating Committee; the slate will be presented and voted on at the February meeting. Mrs. Fuller thanked the hostess, and announced the February meeting will be at Willow Point, with Mrs. Libba Robinson as hostess, and Mrs. Lynn Grimsley as presenter. The meeting was adjourned.

ROBERT HUDSON SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228

sports@alexcityoutlook.com

Page 12

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

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Predictions for the 2016 NCAA football season

Kellyton native Tuck retires from NFL after 11 years Staff Report The Outlook

LUKE ROBINSON Sports Columnist

ince Alabama is waiting on several big names to announce their college destinations, I thought it may be best to hold off on a recruiting article until next week. Therefore, I threw together ten predictions for the 2016 college football season sure to be shot to Hades before week two in September…. 1. Tennessee wins the SEC East…. This seems like a lock of the stone cold variety. UT brings back the league’s best QB (potentially) in Joshua Dobbs and it’s most underrated running back (undoubtedly) in Jalen Hurd. Throw in the fact that the Vols’ leading tackler Jalen Reeves-Maybin turned down the NFL to stay another year and things are finally looking up on Rocky Top. Meanwhile, the schedule eases up a bit as both Florida and Alabama travel to Knoxville. Here’s the catch: If Tennessee doesn’t win the East this year, my next prediction for the Big Orange will be that they are looking for a new coach. 2. Leonard Fournette does NOT win the Heisman… This is kind of a weak prediction I know. However, given that Fournette was a cinch to win the thing midway through 2015 you’d think that it would be a major disappointment for him to not take home the hardware in 2016. A bad combo of SEC fatigue and a daunting schedule will leave Fournette Heisman-less after 2016. Luckily, his consolation prize will be a huge contract in the NFL. 3. Neither does Stanford’s Christian McCaffrey…. Running backs haven’t won the Heisman in back to back years since 1998-1999 so the odds certainly aren’t in his favor. McCaffrey has more hype coming into 2016, but he plays on the West coast and will still have a lot of late kickoff times (outside of a trip to Notre Dame-–see prediction No. 7). I do think he finishes second, however, as Stanford will have a great season. 4. Your Heisman winner is Clemson’s DeShaun Watson… A dynamic quarterback (and even better person) on a team sure to get a lot publicity? I like those chances. If he plays half as well next year as he did against Alabama, he’ll have this award sewn up quickly. 5. Auburn will win eight games… Vandy, UL-Monroe, Alabama A&M and Arkansas State are gimmes. The other four wins will be difficult to come by, but I think this team will find a way to go .500 in SEC play. There is still plenty of talent on the Plains. The question is: Will 8-4 be enough to keep the fans happy? 6. Jacob Eason wins the QB nod at UGA…. In fact, my bet is he is the Day One starter even though he will be a true freshman. With Nick Chubb in the backfield, new coach Kirby Smart can afford to take a chance with his prized recruit. 7. Notre Dame loses four games…. There are no Alabamas or Ohio States on the Irish schedule, but there are a lot of pitfalls; dangerous, trap games if you will. The Stanford game in South Bend is one to watch for sure. 8. Alabama loses one of its four road SEC games…. Just no way to avoid a loss when the slate includes trips to Tennessee, LSU, Arkansas and Ole Miss. Even Alaskan truck drivers think that road is too hard. I wanted to predict two losses among the four games, but I can’t do that just yet; Alabama has just always found a way under Saban. 9. Your college football playoff teams are….. Alabama, Baylor, Clemson and Stanford. I realllllllly wanted to take a flyer on Michigan here, but I could not pull the trigger. Baylor has a super-easy schedule (again), Clemson has the country’s best QB, Stanford is due for a slot and I was then left with the team I thought most likely would be SEC champ in Alabama. 10. Next year I make fewer predictions…. Ten is too many. Robinson is a sports columnist for The Outlook and is president of the Lake Martin Area Bama Club.

Robert Hudson / The Outlook

Dadeville’s Trae Johnson (40) and Benjamin Russell’s Myles Whetstone battle for position during Saturday’s game in Alexander City.

‘Cats get weekend wins over Tigers By Robert Hudson Outlook Sports Editor

After a tight three quarters, the Benjamin Russell Wildcats pulled away for a 67-59 home win over the rival Dadeville Tigers on Saturday. Benjamin Russell Coach Jeff Hines said the Wildcats (9-15, 3-3 in Class 6A-Area 5) effectively used their press defense in Saturday’s win. “I thought our press continued to wear them down, and when you continue to get worn down, that’s when you start making mistakes,” Hines said. “I thought that was the difference. I thought William Grant came up big knocking either three or four shots in a row. I’m proud of our guys. We faced some adversity missing Quen Reese with a hurt back and Buck Kelley and Timmy Lawson for other issues. We look forward to having those three back on Tuesday.” Dadeville (6-16, 3-3 in Class 4A-Area 5) narrowed the Wildcat lead to three when Quamaine Ballard hit a shot at the buzzer, sending the game into the final quarter at 46-43. But the Wildcats used the press to force turnovers and opened the fourth on a quick 8-0 run, with a pair of baskets from Tyre Gray, a jumper by Tae Johnson to go along with a Tanner Barnett free throw. Dadeville’s Devin Johnson hit 1-of-2 from the line to stop the run and a pair from the line by Margarius Buchanan made it a 53-46 game with 5:45 left to play. Grant hit a jumper from mid-range for the Wildcats that extended their lead to 55-46 with less than four minutes left. Devin Johnson hit two more from the line and Dadeville’s Isaiah Hicks went 1-of-2 to make it 55-49. But Grant scored on back-toback possession to keep BRHS ahead at 60-49 with 2:35 remaining. Dadeville closed the gap to 63-56 with 1:19 left, but ran out of time in its comeback attempt. Dadeville Coach Rodney Taylor said missed free throws hurt the Tigers in Saturday’s game. “It’s pretty simple – free throws. We were 15-for-32, and I think they missed

maybe nine or 10. I don’t have the book in front of me, but I think if we make all of our free throws and they make all of theirs, we win the game,” Taylor said. “I thought both teams competed hard. I thought we had a lot of energy. There were a couple times where they looked like they were going to run away, but we battled right back. But if there’s one difference in this game it’s foul shots.” Hines said the Wildcats got solid play from their perimeter players, as Gray had 19 points and Myles Whetstone added 10 points from the guard positions. “I thought our guys that play on the perimeter did an exceptional job. I thought Tae Johnson and Tanner Barnett did some good things,” Hines said. “I thought their (Dadeville) press hurt us a little bit early on. We’ve got a good little rivalry going. I call it the ‘River Bridge Rivalry.’ It’s a very healthy rivalry, the kids know each other and I think Coach Taylor and his staff do a tremendous job.” Buchanan had 13 points for Dadeville, while Devin Johnson had 10 points.

Lady Wildcats 56, Lady Tigers 35

The Benjamin Russell Lady Wildcats took a 56-35 win over the Dadeville Lady Tigers on Saturday in Alexander City. Benjamin Russell Coach Latreisha Moon said the Lady Wildcats (9-13) played with a lot of energy after a long break from game action. “I thought we played pretty well coming off a little break. It was like nine days since our last game,” Moon said. “So I think for the most part we were having fun. We’ve been working on defense and I think we did much better on our 2-3 and our man. I think all the kids played hard tonight and it showed that we’ve been working at practice.” Hope Westbrooks led Benjamin Russell with 19 points, while Jaaliyah Caldwell added 18 points. Dadeville (1-14) was led by Raven Tuck’s 14 points. Benjamin Russell hosts Auburn tonight starting at 5:30 p.m., while Dadeville will travel to Central-Clay County at 5 p.m. tonight.

A local NFL standout called it a career after a successful run at the game’s highest level. Former Central-Coosa and Notre Dame standout defensive end Justin Tuck announced his retirement from the National Football League on Monday afternoon through a Facebook post: “After months of praying and careful consideration, I have decided to retire from the game of football. Tuck I’ve had 11 great years and honestly I leave with very few regrets. “I’m thankful to my family and close friends for their unwavering support. My beautiful wife and kids have dedicated their lives to being my closest support system and I’m eternally grateful. “I want to thank the New York Giants and the Oakland Raiders for giving me a place I could call home all of these years. The Mara, Tisch, and Davis families, I’m forever in your debt. To my coaches: thanks for having me ready at every stage - the Super Bowls, Pro Bowls, you name it – thank you for teaching me about professionalism, preparation, and the pursuit of perfection. To my teammates: thank you for always going to battle with me each and every gameday, but more importantly, thanks for being my brothers for life. “And lastly, the FANS. What an incredible environment you’ve created for me over the years to call a workplace. You all have been so supportive of me and my family, and without you I would have no game to play. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. “This isn’t a good-bye, my family and I will continue our charitable work with Tuck’s R.U.S.H. for Literacy and we look forward to continuing to give back to communities that have given so much to us. God Bless.” The Kellyton native was a member of the New York Giants from 2005-2013 where he was named a first team All-Pro (2008), was voted to two Pro Bowls (2008, 2010), and won two Super Bowls (2008, 2012). Tuck ended his career as a member of the Oakland Raiders. The 32-year-old finished up with a career total of 66.5 quarterback sacks.

CACC splits doubleheader By Robert Hudson Outlook Sports Editor

The Central Alabama Community College Trojans split their season-opening doubleheader against LaGrange College JV on Saturday at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex. In game one, trailing 2-1 in the bottom of the sixth inning, the Trojans opened things up when Zavier Lushington scored from third on a sacrifice bunt by Ian Kirk that tied the game at 2-2. CACC took a 3-2 lead in the same inning when Garrett Brown doubled off a hit to deep right center field that brought in Gabriel Wurtz from second. The Trojans added two more runs in the bottom sixth, with Brown scoring on a sac bunt by Michael Walls, and Trevor Bates on a grounder up the middle by Parker Moman, as CACC sealed a 5-2 victory. CACC Coach Doug Kovash said in the second game the Trojans dug themselves too deep a hole to climb out of. But out of the 14 innings they played on Saturday, Kovash said he was pleased with what he saw from his team. “We played 14 innings and I thought 11 of them we played

pretty well. Pitching, defense, and even from an offensive standpoint I thought we played pretty well,” Kovash said. “We have a lot of individual contributions from a lot of different people and we got off to a good start on the day offensively and defensively. I was encouraged in many ways.” While the Trojans nearly made a comeback in game two, Kovash said there were some areas where they clearly needed work, as they lost 8-5. “At the same time, those three innings we didn’t play well exposed some things we certainly need to work on and shore up if we’re going to be a better baseball team,” Kovash said. “Most of it came down to pitching and defense. We played really poor the first three innings of game two to fall back 8-0. The good thing is we didn’t quit, we rallied and had a chance to win the game with the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh, we just ran out of time.” Kovash said he was pleased with the performances from the pitching staff on the day. “Individually, I thought we had seven different guys that really stood out. We got a good, solid outing from Braden

Robert Hudson / The Outlook

Central Alabama’s Peyton Whitten winds up a pitch during Saturday’s game at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex.

Olive in game one. He didn’t get the win, but he did pitch very well,” Kovash said. “Zach Melton pitched very well to pick up the win in that first game. We got good performances on the mound from Will Donahoo, Greg Stephens and Garrett Brown as well.” Offensively, Kovash said there were a number of standouts, including some strong play from the bench in game two. “And we had another five guys that did well offensively. Drew Hayles had a great day

in that first game going 3-3,” Kovash said. “We got some great performances off the bench from different players. Peyton Logan hit a home run, had a single and advanced on a ball in the dirt before he broke his wrist in game two. That was disappointing to lose him, but he played great. Trevor Bastien came in and had some nice at-bats. Trevor Bates played well running the bases in game one and played well defensively. Garrett Brown had a couple of nice base hits in game one, too.”