OPINION: IT’S TIME TO FOLLOW PAY STUDY TO THE LETTER.
TUESDAY
THE IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Relive the pageant and polar plunge inside! Page 10-11.
BENJAMIN RUSSELL LADY WILDCATS READY FOR 2016. SPORTS, PAGE 12.
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892 January 26, 2016
Vol. 124, No. 18
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Legislators talk session agenda By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer
The 2016 session of the Alabama Legislature could bode well for teachers, if one of the Alexander City areas two legislators is to be believed. Sen. Tom Whatley, who represents state Senate District 27, and Mark Tuggle, who represents state House District 81 (both districts include Alexander City) said they expect state lawmakers will try hard to find the funds to increase teacher salaries and
benefits in the upcoming session, which gavels in on Feb. 2. “I think we’ll see some additional discretionary spending for 2017,” said Tuggle. “And I think you’re going to see us try to steer that money toward salaries and benefits for teachers and to lower the divisors (in effect, making classes smaller) in the middle school grade levels.” “I think we’ll see an increase in education budget revenue,” Whatley said. “With that, we’ll look at some different things for K-12 teachers in the classroom. But we need to
properly fund the research institutions, too. Companies locate in Tallapoosa and Macon counties because of the research they can benefit from at Auburn University.” Tuggle said he expected discretionary money to go toward Public Education Employees’ Health Insurance Plan, or PEEHIP, Retirement Systems of Alabama and to increase teacher salaries. “I don’t have any numbers, no specifics, no guarantees,” Tuggle said. “But I think See SESSION • Page 3
Whatley
Indicators show lake home sales stay strong
$120,000 in checks to city could be missing Resident claims checks to golf course are not being processed at city hall
By DAVID GRANGER Staff Writer
By MITCH SNEED Outlook Editor
The director of one city department said that as much as $120,000 that was taken in doesn’t appear to be showing up in the Alexander City accounting system. Responding to concerns from Alexander City resident Wendell Scroggins about checks written to Lakewinds Golf Course that have never cleared the bank at Monday’s meeting of the Alexander City City Council, Parks and Recreation Department Director Sonny Wilson said he noticed the discrepancy during the recently completed budget process. Scroggins said if his estimates are correct, as many as 364 checks have not made it through the system. He said an audit found that the golf course lost $150,000 last year, but he thinks he has a good idea why that may be the case. “My concern is about money that has been turned into city hall that has never been deposited into the bank,” Scroggins said. “Specifically, checks we have written to the golf course that have never gone through the bank.” Scroggins said that 70 percent of See COUNCIL • Page 3
Tuggle
Kenneth Boone / The Outlook
Amanda Lee Hall was crowned Miss Outlook 2016 at Benjamin Russell High School’s auditorium.
HERE SHE COMES Amanda Lee Hall crowned 2016 Miss Outlook By MITCH SNEED Outlook Editor
More than 300 people were on hand at the Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium to see the crowning of the winners in the 43th Annual Miss Outlook Pageant Saturday night. Amanda Lee Hall was crowned Miss Outlook and will receive the Billy McGhee Memorial Scholarship to Central Alabama Community College. MacKenzie Willoughby was crowned the winner of the Junior Miss Outlook division. Petite Miss Outlook was won by Kayden Morgan.
Raylee Moore was crowned Little Miss Outlook. “We want to thank all the contestants, our sponsors and all the people who worked so hard to make this year’s pageant a success,” Tallapoosa Publishers Kenneth Boone said. “In particular or director Susanne Hays, our Master of Ceremonies David Burkhalter of Kowaliga Country, Linda Ewing who did a great job with the decorations, Paige Bentley who provided entertainment and Angela Mullins who did a fantastic job with the sound. “An event like this couldn’t happen without the work of a lot of people and See PAGEANT • Page 11
Key indicators show that the market for Lake Martin area homes, both waterfront and nonwaterfront, is strong, according to a report by a state real estate group as well as a local expert. Lake Martin area residential sales totaled 43 units during December, an increase of 16.2 percent from the same period last year, according to a report issued Monday by the Alabama Center for Real Estate (ACRE). In addition, the average sales price for Lake Martin area homes in December was $370,522, down 1.6 percent from the November average of $376,553, but up by 18.8 percent over the December 2014 average price of $311,888. Steve Arnberg, director of real estate sales for Russell Lands, said the first good news is the increase in real estate transactions. “Normally, December sales would dip from November,” Arnberg said. “To see them go up is a real positive for the market.” See SALES • Page 3
Today’s
Young Professionals’ Polar Plunge a chilling success story efited the Lake Martin Resource Association. “Every dollar we collected If you missed the Lake Martin at the door is going to LMRA,” Young Professionals Polar Plunge Meacham said. “If you paid to at Kowaliga Beach this past week- watch, to jump or get a t-shirt it is end, you will have another chance all going to LMRA.” to redeem yourself and take on the The event held on Kowaliga cold next year. Beach was the place to be Saturday “It was awesome,” Lake Martin morning. Young Professionals’ Jacob “We had over 250 people there Meacham said. “We are looking just to watch,” Meacham said. at doing it again next year. It blew “It was great for us. It was great away our expectations.” for LMRA and it was great for The below freezing temperaKowaliga. The place was packed.” tures did not scare away the jumpWith a successful inaugural ers as over 50 people took the polar plunge this year the Young plunge into the chilly waters of Professionals are already looking Lake Martin with temperatures to improve it for next year. hovering below freezing at the time “We had a lot of fun,” Meacham and winds gusting over 20 mph. said. “We are already talking about The cold did not slow down ways of doing things better next fundraising efforts as over $3,200 year.” in proceeds from the event ben-
Weather
58 41
By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
More than 50 people took part in the Lake Martin Young Professionals’ Polar Plunge Saturday. The event attracted more than 250 onlookers and raised more than $3,200 for Lake Martin Resource Association. For more pictures see page 10 inside.
High
Low
Lake Martin
Lake Levels
484.93 Reported on 01/25/16 @ 4 p.m.
Linda Shaffer, REALTOR® C: 256.794.4641 • W: 256.329.5253 shaffer@lakemartin.net 5295 Highway 280, Alexander City, AL
6
54708 90050 USPS Permit # 013-080
8
Page 2
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Unplanned pregnancy can become welcome surprise
Wednesday
46 35 High
Low
60 percent chance of rain
Thursday
52 34 High
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
The Outlook
Low
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
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
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
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
Planning a Yard Sale? Boost your pro½ts with an ad in the Classi½eds. It’s an easy and affordable way to bring more business to your door! To place your ad call
256.277.4219
DEAR ABBY: I just read the letter from “Expecting in Canada” (Sept. 8) and am disappointed in her daughters’ reaction to her pregnancy, as were you. My own mother announced she was pregnant with my baby brother when she was 42 and my sister and I were in college. Now, 46 years later, I can say he is one of the best things that ever happened to our family. He took great care of both my parents as they grew older and was with them when each passed away. My sister and I are very close to him, even though we nicknamed him “the crown prince” and teased him because that’s how my parents treated him. I hope “Expecting’s” daughters will eventually embrace this great gift. If they don’t, they may miss out on a wonderful experience and a lot of love. -- ELDER SISTER OF THE CROWN PRINCE DEAR ELDER SISTER: Thank you for your letter. Readers wrote to share their personal experiences as you did. Most agreed that having a child with older parents and siblings can be a life-changing event. Read on: DEAR ABBY: I was a surprise
DEAR ABBY Advice
baby. My birth mother was 40 and my birth father was 67. My sisters were 15 and 16. The older one was not happy; the younger one loved having a baby sister. As fate would have it, my mother died when I was 7 years old. My father was too old to care for a child, so my older sister, the one who hadn’t been thrilled with my arrival, and her husband became my “parents.” Not every day was perfect, but my life was very blessed. My sister, whom I called Momma, became ill in her 60s, and my brother-in-law, whom I called Daddy for the rest of his life, also had health problems. I became their “legs” for many errands. When Daddy died I became Momma’s primary caregiver. I would like those two girls to know that the little “intruder” may just be the one who takes care of
Obituaries Mrs. Helen Jeanette Buchannon 1936-2016 Funeral service for Mrs. Helen Jeanette Buchannon, 79, of Alexander City, will be Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Hillview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, January 26, 2016 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Radney Funeral Home. Mrs. Buchannon passed away on Saturday, January 23, 2016 at Chapman Healthcare Center. She was born on July 18, 1936 in Calhoun County, Alabama to Benson H. McGinnis and Ruth May Skinner McGinnis. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Troy and a former member of First Baptist Church in Alexander City. For many years, Mrs. Jeanette served as the secretary for Dr. Johnny Long, director of “Sound of the South” Marching Band at Troy State University. She enjoyed being around the students and traveling with the band. She was an avid reader and Bridge player. She also enjoyed cooking and bargain shopping.
LOT 10 MAGNOLIA ESTATES $15,000 MOTIVATED SELLERS! Level building lot w/ little site preparation. Great neighborhood close to shopping, hospital and schools.
SAMANTHA SPURLIN
OfÄce: 256.329.LAKE (5253) Mobile: 256.786.0650 www.samanthaspurlin.com sam@samanthaspurlin.com
PROFESSIONAL
ing the room, giving name suggestions and having them participate in a baby shower. -STEPHANIE IN ILLINOIS DEAR ABBY: When my mother was 42, my baby brother was born. I was 17 when I became his nanny and learned how to take care of a baby. It was an experience that made me more mature. After I married, I was never able to have my own children. Please don’t listen to your daughters. I know what it’s like. Perhaps they are jealous that they have to share their parents. My mom and dad were the oldest parents at PTA meetings, graduations, etc., but they were proud of my younger brother. Many times people thought they were the grandparents. We shared many laughs during those years. -- EILEEN IN WEST VIRGINIA 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.
Public Meetings She is survived by her daughter, Sharla Edwards (Danny) of Alexander City; son, Bill Buchannon, Jr. (Kathy) of Alexander City; grandchildren, Rich McClellan, Baylee McClellan, April Turner (Chad), Brian Buchannon (Christi) and Lindley Buchannon; greatgrandchildren, Cam Turner, Cole Turner, Landon Buchannon, Presley Vice, Keelan Vice and Rylin Hall; and sister, Marlene Cain of Jacksonville, AL. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Billy W. Buchannon, Sr. The family would like to thank the staff at Chapman Healthcare Center for the wonderful care, love and support that was extended to Mrs. Buchannon. Flowers will be accepted or memorial contributions may be given to the BRHS Band Uniform Campaign, 225 Heard Blvd., Alexander City, AL 35010. Please note Buchannon Memorial on the “for” line. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome. com. Radney Funeral Home in Alexander City is in charge of the arrangements.
The Outlook ClassiÀeds
FOR SALE
them someday. I’m shocked that the parents would even entertain the idea of giving the baby away. -- JUDY IN LOUISIANA DEAR ABBY: When I was a junior in high school, my mother told me she was pregnant. I was disgusted and angry, and I told her so. As I reflect back on it, I’m mortified that I could be so cruel. After giving it more thought, I realized I was annoyed to think my parents were sexual beings. Teenagers that age are just coming to terms with their own sexuality. They can also be somewhat selfish and self-absorbed. While it may be a family matter to some extent, it really is between the mother and father. My little brother is very close to me now and, more important, close to my children, who are nearer in age to him. I hope that mother won’t let the temporary opinion of the daughters ruin a beautiful experience of a shared love. -- CHERYL IN CALIFORNIA DEAR ABBY: “Expecting” should ask her daughters to be a part of the baby’s life, such as going to doctor’s appointments, picking out clothes, decorat-
Mrs. Annie Alexander Mrs. Annie Alexander of Equality, Alabama died January 23, 2016 and funeral service for Mrs. Annie Alexander will be Wednesday, January 27, 2016 at Morning Star District Center at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Rockford Cemetery. Wright’s Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Ruth B. Russell Mrs. Ruth B. Russell 84 of Dadeville, AL died on Sunday, January 24, 2016 at UAB Hospital, Birmingham, AL. Funeral arrangements by Armour’s Memorial Services.
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. 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. Ray Water Authority meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Ray Water Authority Office. All customers are invited to attend. Rockford Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 7 p.m. Tallapoosa County Board of Education meets on the second Monday of each month. Meetings are held in the new central office at 679 East Columbus Street, Dadeville, AL 36853. Tallapoosa County Commission meets the second Monday of the month at 9 a.m. in the courthouse in Dadeville, with a pre-meeting also open to the public 30 minutes before each regular session. Tallapoosa County 911 Board will meet on the second Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the 911 Administrative office at 240 West Columbus Street, Dadeville. Call 825-8490 for more information. Walnut Hill Water Authority meets the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited. Call 825-9841 to inquire about the agenda.
SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law
135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL
256-825-9559 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.
WHATLEY MONUMENT Service at its best...When you need it most!
Company
Our certified team is ready to serve you.
Better Service A Family Tradition
(256) 234.5260
1049 Hillabee Street Alexander City, AL
www.amplumbing.net Become a Member of Our Diamond Club...It Pays!
C.M. “Mike” Whatley, Owner
329-1217
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Sales
continued from page 1
There were 24 Lake Martin waterfront residences that sold in December for an average sales price of $567,981. That’s nine more waterfront sales than December 2014 when the average sales price was $624,500. The 24 waterfront sales is also an increase from November’s 19 and the December average sales price represents a slight drop from November’s $573,105. Arnberg said the 12-month rolling average of total volume of waterfront portends more good for the Lake Martin market. “That 12-month rolling averages shows a 39.1 increase in total dollar volume,” Arnberg said. “There were 354 waterfront units sold in 2015 as compared to 2014, so that’s a 25.1 percent increase. Even the total dollar volume for lot sales is up 10 percent.” Arnberg said there was a rolling average of 6.78 months supply of available waterfront homes currently on Lake Martin compared to 9.67 percent last year. Arnberg added that the current list priceto-sales price ratio on lakefront homes is 93.8 percent. “That’s a rolling average for the totality of 2015,” Arnberg said. “What that means is that if a property is correctly priced, a seller can expect 93.8 percent of what he or she is asking and, conversely, the buyer can expect to pay that percentage. That, I think is the number that will really interest your readers.” According to ACRE’s report, which takes into account both waterfront and non-waterfront lake area properties, December 2015 was by far the best month of December for home sales at Lake Martin over the past decade. Year-to-date sales through December were up 26 percent above 2014. December sales were 48 percent or 14 units above ACRE’s monthly forecast, the report said. The Center’s year-to-date sales forecast through December projected 495 closed transactions while the actual sales were 600 units, a rise of 21 percent. The Lake Martin area housing inventory in December was 342 units, a decrease of 24 percent from December 2014 and 45 percent below the December 2008 peak of 621 units, the report said. In addition, December inventory decreased by 17 percent from the prior month and there were eight months of housing supply in December, a favorable decrease of 35 percent from last December’s 12.2 months of supply, ACRE said. The report said residential sales increased 34 percent from the prior month and the Lake Martin area median sales price in December was $250,000, an increase of 31.6 percent from December 2014 but a 9.1 percent decrease compared to the prior month. ACRE said historical data indicate that the December median sales price (2010-14) typically increases 17 percent from November, but pricing can and will fluctuate from month to month due to changing composition of actual sales (lakefront vs. nonlakefront) and other factors.
HILLABEE TOWERS
Great Location • Peaceful Setting Comfortable Living Spacious One Bedroom Apartments Now Available! Rent Based On Income, 62 Years And Older Or Mobility Impaired Refrigerator, Stove, Carpet, Blinds, Heat/Air, Tile With Carpet, Laundry Room Facilities – Electric and Water Included
Call Hillabee Towers Today! (256) 329-0552 1001 Tallapoosa Street Alexander City, AL
Page 3
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
Sessions
continued from page 1
that’s what you’ll see happen.” Tuggle said the state’s schools could also see an influx of technology improvements with the opening up of an additional $1 billion in federal E-Rate funds. “I think you’ll see a lot more movement toward 1-to-1 technology like exists at Benjamin Russell right now,” Tuggle said. “You may even see us look at 1-to-1 statewide. Title I will still continue to get priority, but we want to be prepared on the state level.” Tuggle said that E-Rate funding requires a 15 percent match at the local level. As far as legislation limited to the local area, Tuggle said he and Whatley will work together to get the funding for phase II of the work on Central Boulevard, formerly Russell Road. The project would give straightline access through the old Russell Corp. campus. “We’re trying to get phase II of that project completed,” Tuggle said. “It’s an industrial access road. Phase I was $1.5 million and Phase II is going to cost about $500,000, but the state won’t provide 100 percent of that.” Neither Tuggle nor Whatley have been approached yet with regard to the county commission’s passage of resolution on Sunday liquor sales. For that resolution to be acted on, it would have to be introduced in the Legislature by either Tuggle or Whatley. Whatley said he is likely to get behind a movement that would allow municipalities to put together partner-
ships that could provide high-speed Internet to customers in places where cable companies and telephone companies currently providing Internet service are not doing so. “If the cable companies and phone companies don’t want to provide it, then these municipalities that are left our because of their lack of speed should be able to do the same thing that they were allowed to do with water and sewer co-operatives 30 years ago,” Whatley said. “Soon, anyone that doesn’t have the really high-speed access to information through the Internet is going to be at a real disadvantage.” Whatley also said the Legislature needs to prioritize its funding in the coming session and mentioned three items which he would include near the top of any priority list: the court system, mental health and the military. “Our court system is woefully funded,” Whatley said. “Jury trials take 2-3 years before their held. We have to make sure that we can do things in our courts in a timely manner to avoid a continual backlog.” Whatley said the military, even at the state level, needs to see its funds increased in light of terror strikes taking place in this country and across the globe. “Plus, I’m going to work to save (Allex City’s) armory,” Whatley said. “And if I can’t save our current one, I’ll push for a super-armory so that Alexander City has a military footprint.”
Council
continued from page 1
the checks he has written to the course have never cleared the bank and he has talked to others who say they have experienced the same thing. He said the problem still exists, because he wrote a check on Dec. 10 and it still hasn’t cleared. Wilson said he has copies of every check that has come in and he knows the amount that is deposited is off dramatically. “I can tell you exactly what’s missing – $120,000,” Wilson said. “Compared to what’s on our deposits and what’s in the system, that’s exactly what is missing. I saw it during the budget process and I knew it was off. But no one could tell me why that was. But in going back, this is exactly where it comes from.” Members of the council were floored to hear the news, even after it was learned that the deposits are checked and the funds that appear to be in question are not from cash, but instead it is checks that seem to be getting lost somewhere in the process. “We have the possibility of $120,000 in checks missing?” Council member Bill Ray Wall asked. “We’ve got to find out what’s happening.” City Finance Director Sandra Machen said that while they have been notified about some checks that did not make it through the process, she had no idea of the volume that was mentioned Monday night. Even though the deposits are signed off on by the person who brings the deposit to city hall and someone who counts and double checks it, no one could account for where the checks could be winding up. “It’s not rocket science,” Councilman Bob Howard said. “A businessman has to take care of their money. There is something wrong with the process if this has happened and we need to figure out what it is now.” Scroggins said he has no idea how long it’s been going on, but he has experienced the problems since 2014. “If we can get to the bottom of this, then perhaps we can get an idea of the true financial condition of Lakewinds Golf Course,” Scroggins said. Mayor Charles Shaw said that a company is in the middle of an audit and he believes when that is complete we may have more answers. “We are aware of it and the auditors are auditing that
among other things right now,” Shaw said. “They should be done in three weeks. Maybe that will give us some answers.” A new point of sale system was recently installed, and some believe that may better track the funds. Councilman Tony Goss said a complete investigation is needed. “These are city funds,” Goss said. “If $120,000 is missing, there should be a criminal investigation.” The council also discussed more issues with pay irregularities and attempted to take a vote to halt all increases and fixes. The idea was to wait until a pay study by Auburn University, which was commissioned by the council, could be complete. But because the item was not on the agenda, it needed a unanimous vote to be placed up for vote. Sherry Ellison-Simpson voted against allowing the vote, so it will have to be taken up later. “I say we do zero,” Councilman Jim Spann said. “We were attempting to do a good thing, the right thing, but in the process we opened up a can of worms and it seems like there is no end to it. My recommendation is that we do nothing until we get the Auburn study complete. But that’s just what I think.”
Job Fair
Allegiance* Staffing TM
MEMBER
American Staffing Association
Jobs Available!
THURSDAY, JAN. 28 • 9AM-1PM
SEVEN GABLES, TALLASSEE
s k r Spa ll Fly Wi Now h throug 4 1 . b e F
Subscription Special!
Treat your loved one to a 3-month subscripton of:
for just
$
99
29
Stop By Our Office Or Call David To Receive This Special Offer. Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. 548 Cherokee Road 256.234.4281
MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213
editor@alexcityoutlook.com
EDITORIAL BOARD Kenneth Boone Mitch Sneed
Outlook The
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 4
Our
Opinion
It’s time to follow pay study to the letter
F
or more than six months, the Alexander City City Council has been dealing with issues involving the pay of municipal employees. Pay increases that were given without required council approval, differing pay for people in the same jobs depending on departments and a history of not giving increases consistently for certification and longevity were just part of the issues that arose. The problems hampered getting a budget finalized. Even after the budget was passed almost three months past the deadline, the problems continue to arise. It’s almost like the Dutch boy frantically trying to plug the holes in the dike. As soon as one problem appears to be plugged, the council is faced with another irregularity or finding. It seems that there is no end. Officials point to an upcoming Auburn University pay study designed to get it all right. We sure hope it does. But history tells us something else. In doing research, we found that the city has paid for similar studies. The first was done by Auburn University and the second by Troy University in 2007. Both found irregularities and offered suggestions on how those problems could be addressed in a way that would put salaries in line with other similar cities and be fair to employees. As with any good plan, it is only as good as its execution. In both of these cases, the execution was poor at best. In fact, neither plan was ever fully implemented. The Troy study was put on hold and was never put in place due to issues with funding the pay levels suggested by the experts who put it together. This time around as the city is investing more than $40,000 in yet another study, we hope that history won’t repeat itself. Alexander City can ill afford for these issues to linger any longer. It isn’t good for the city, the employees or the citizens.
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
N
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Taking the plunge is a way of life
ot that my sanity hasn’t been questioned before, but after my participation in the inaugural Young Professionals Polar Plunge Saturday there are again questions surfacing. It was an incredible event that drew a great crowd. One organizer estimated the crowd at 300, only a fraction of which took the plunge into Lake Martin on a day where the wind chill dipped to 19 degrees. I was one of those hearty souls. It wasn’t too bad at all. My feet seemed to be the only thing that really bothered me much at all. People said those who hit the water were crazy, but it really does make you feel alive and your skin is energized once you get out of the water. I know it’s not for everyone, but I think the ability to handle the cold water is something I am suited for because of genetics and a unique set of life experiences. First off, I’ve always been a big ol’ boy, so the extra insulation makes it a little easier for me I suppose. I don’t get cold too often. As a young boy, I hated to wake up in the morning. The idea of getting out of a warm bed on a cold morning to get ready for school was not something that I did willingly for most of my early years in school. My father had a remedy for that. The way it worked is that my mother would wake me and call me for breakfast one time. Then the duties of waking me were turned over to my dad. He was not as kind and gentle as my sweet mother. Dad would keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator and if my feet didn’t hit the floor when he called, he would grab the pitcher and give me a cold dose of reality. After a few of those your skin gets pretty
MITCH SNEED Editor
tough, or you learn to get up real quick. Cold water was normal at our house. We had five kids in the house at one point, so by the time I got a chance to bathe, a cold shower was a very high probability. I got pretty good at blocking out the chills. I found that singing in the frigid water took my mind off how cold it was. My favorite tune, you guessed it, Foreigner’s “Cold As Ice.” I was also known to belt out “White Christmas,” “Ice, Ice, Baby” and Hank Williams “Cold, Cold, Heart.” In the summers we spent tons of time at my grandparents’ house in the mountains of North Carolina. The water that came out of the kitchen sink faucet was gravity flow – straight from a spring in the side of a mountain. So even to drink, it was like drinking straight from the fridge. You have to understand that my grandparents didn’t have an indoor restroom until 1979, so if you were there for a visit, bathing meant a dip in Cook Creek with a bar of Ivory soap. The water was cool even in the middle of the summer, but from October until May, it was so cold I was tempted to lean up against an electric fence just to warm up. So again, cold water became a big part of my life. But there is a big difference between necessities and jumping into cold water just for the heck of it. My first Polar Plunge experience wasn’t in any sort of sanctioned event. I guess you could call it an impromptu plunging. It was Jan. 1, 1981 in New Orleans and my
beloved Georgia Bulldogs were playing the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. The Bulldogs won 17-10 behind two touchdowns by Herschel Walker and the National Championship was headed home to Athens. To say that pandemonium broke out is an understatement. Walking back to the French Quarter following the game with friends was the stroll of a lifetime and there in front pf a large bank building, I saw something I couldn’t pass up. A large reflection pool with fountains shooting up in the 42-degree evening air was there calling my name. I couldn’t resist stripping down to my tightey whiteys and jumping right in, barking like a dog the whole way. Then there was the time that I was covering the Georgia-Auburn game at Jordan-Hare Stadium in 1986 when security turned the hoses on the Georgia fans who hit the field. I was just taking pictures, but the cold water didn’t bother me much. My first officially sanctioned Polar Plunge came in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin on Jan. 1, 2001. The temperature was 4 degrees with subzero wind chills. They actually had to cut a hole with a chain saw from the frozen lake to make a place to plunge. That was cold. Icicles would form in your hair as you exited the water. It was cold, but being in line to climb out of the water behind a bikini-clad Miss Wisconsin made it all worth it. Quite a view as I recall. So jumping in Saturday brought back a lot of great memories. I’m sure all those who took part made some of their own. Great event and I can’t wait until next year. Sneed is the editor of The Outlook.
Letters to the Editor
Christianity, and all religions, have varied perspectives Dear Editor, I am truly saddened by the recent letters from certain so called Christian writers who apparently want to establish a Theocracy. According to these writers only their views of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit should be tolerated. All other views and opinions are heresy and unholy. Those foolish enough to oppose this new theocracy should be “force fed” (their words) the proper views of God, church and State — I guess,
by teachers with AK-47s and spiritual leaders with long sharp swords. All this reminds me of the indoctrination camps run by the communists in Southeast Asia. Of course, ISIS has a better and cheaper solution; just kill everyone who disagrees with you and blow up any object that doesn’t enforce your own views. Boy, what a great system— as long as it is your finger on the trigger. But then, again, one might want to remember
Robespierre in 1794. Jefferson and others fought long and hard to separate church and state. Let’s not allow some irrational and intolerant fanatics to change this. To me, the whole essence of the Bible can be found in Luke 10:25-28. Do these so called Christians follow this simple truth? Also, the Golden Rule doesn’t have the word “except” in it. David French Alexander City
We should continue pushing for gun law reform 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 located at 110 Calhoun Street, Suite 108, Alexander City.
Mark Tuggle
Tom Whatley represents the 27th District covering Lee, Russell and Tallapoosa County. He was elected to the Alabama Senate on Nov. 2, 2010, and can be reached at 334-242-t7865. His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn.
Tom Whatley
Dear Editor, It takes a lot of hate to shoot a human being multiple times. Mr. Norman Crayton was someone too. He had family that cared for him too. My understanding is that Mr. Matthew McDaniel was this man’s friend and they lived and worked together. My question is the question that is asked all around the county that no one is demanding to be answered: “Why are these people being shot so many times?” They are making a strong statement to the NRA about their guns. It is time for the Justice Department to upgrade the murder charges to premeditated because they know exactly what they are doing. Life doesn’t mean anything. All lives matter and we are going to push for tougher laws
because too many people are killing people and walking away. How can that be here in the USA? We show the world this. What we can do here and get away with. I have never seen this kind of hate in all my life. Yes they did ugly things in the 50’s and 60’s, but laws were put in place to protect people. Now the laws don’t work anymore. You can shoot a person multiple times and kill him and get a bond as low as $250,000. That is an insult to the Crayton family. That is the kind of system that we are trying to change. We have to because our families and children are not safe. A rich family hasn’t lost a family member to this kind of hate violence. If so, they would be screaming for
change. So it is up to us to demand change because this is terrorism at its worst, here in this county, and we are going to put a stop to it. Mr. Crayton and all the rest that have been shot multiple times, we are going to get answers and demand the Justice Department take control of these gun laws and fix them, toughen them up so people don’t have to worry about their children or grandchildren coming in contact with someone with that kind of rage or hate. You can’t explain these killings. Too many times, it seems like a game they play on the internet but it’s a real human being. I can’t come to grips with it, but we will. Arlean Wyckoff Alexander City
Today’s
Quote
“No matter what the world tells you, words and ideas can change the world. ” – Robin Williams
Today’s
Scripture “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.” –Hebrews 10:24
alexcityoutlook.com
Daily Poll Weekend Question: Do you think Alabama has a high risk of being targeted by terrorists?
Yes - 4 No - 8
Tuesday Question: Have you ever taken a polar plunge?
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
Subscribe The subscription rate is $136.00 per year in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and $177.99 outside the area. Periodicals paid at Alexander City, AL. Newspapers are available at 100 news racks in our area at 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.
What’s your
Opinion?
We’d like to share your thoughts and opinions with the greater Lake Martin community. It’s free and it only takes a few moments of your time. We have two ways to get your opinion in print: letters to the editor and guest columns. The main difference is length. Letters to the editor are up to 250 words, while guest columns can be up to 500 words. Letters and columns may be sent to P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011, faxed to (256) 2346550 or e-mailed to editor@alexcityoutlook.com. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send us your thoughts today!
Follow us
On the Web
Follow The Outlook on the Internet on our website or on social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Log on to http://www.alexcityoutloook.com. There you will be able to view stories and multimedia posted by The Outlook. You can also click on the Facebook link to join The Outlook’s fan club or click on the Twitter link to start receiving tweets on your phone as we post updates. You can also subscribe to our RSS (Rich Site Summary) feed on the Outlook’s home page. Check it out today.
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
The Outlook
CommunityCalendar Today is
January 26, 2016 ÂŚÂĄ ÂœÂŚÂ?ÂŁ ÂĄÂŽ œ˜Ž˜ŠÂ?ÂŽ š£“¤Ž SERVING LUNCH IN THE CAFÉ
Today’s Events
ANNUAL MEETING: The Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce will host its annual meeting and awards banquet Tuesday,
Jan. 26 for 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 460 Camp Civitan Road in Dadeville. There will be an awards presentation, installation of 2016 officers, displays by chamber members, drawing for door prizes, dinner and a cash bar. For more information call the chamber at 256-825-4019.
Page 5
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Submit calendar items:
Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/.
Today’s Anniversaries
Perry and Jean Myer and Karen and Frank Korb are celebrating birthdays today.
Today’s Birthdays
Jamie Edwards, Shane Cook, LaTerence Meadows, Neil Holley, Stacey Cossey, William Brown, Buddy Stone and Carol Davis are celebrating a birthday today.
Tuesday - Saturday 11am-1:30pm
HOLLEY’S HOME FURNISHINGS
We Dare You To Compare! 1660 Hwy. 22 West Alexander City, AL
www.emporiumwine.net (256) 212-9463 Tue-Fri: 10-5 Sat: 10-2
256.234.4141
***
“£“¤ ÂŚÂĄ Š—–ဖ š ÂŚÂ˜Â“Â?ÂœÂĄ
www.holleyshomefurnishings.com
Small Space Advertising Works.
We will deliver the Lake Region’s News to your door
128 Calhoun Street Historic Downtown Alexander City
Visit us online at:
Daily, Weekly or Monthly
SUBSCRIBE TODAY! Take advantage of our Magazine Subscription Special and get both LAKE Magazine and Lake Martin Living for the low price of . . . $4500
For Consistent Advertising
at Low Rates...
call the Advertising Department
256.234.4281
Need Insurance? Call me.
Submitted / The Outlook
The Artist Association of Central Alabama is hosting a Zantangle Art Workshop Jan 30 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the United Way Conference Room. Cost is $35 for members and $45 for non-members, all supplies included. Call Martha McKnight at 256-825-6503 or Dottie Holdren at 256377-4918 with questions or to register.
January 28- February 27
REVELATION BIBLE STUDY: Family Worship Center is having Revelation Bible Study presented by Dr. Albert Pike beginning Jan. 28 through Feb. 27. It will be Thursdays and Fridays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 9 a.m.
January 30
256.234.3481 KarenChannell.com
Brown Nursing and Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services •Physical Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Speech Therapy 2334 Washington Street Alexander City • 256-329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
Come Visit Us! Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing
SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
The FANS HEAR You!
ART WORKSHOP: The Artist Association of Central Alabama is hosting a Zantangle Art Workshop Jan 30 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the United Way Conference Room. Cost is $35 for members and $45 for non-members, all supplies included. Call Martha McKnight at 256-8256503 or Dottie Holdren at 256-3774918 with questions or to register. PANCAKE BREAKFAST: The Pine Ridge Mission team will have its’ annual Pancake breakfast on Saturday, Jan. 30 from 7 a.m. - 10 a.m. at the Alexander City Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. The plates are $6 and include 2 big pancakes, sausage, fruit and drink options. The proceeds help fund the teams’ annual trip to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation including VBS and Community outreach projects.
January 31
BIG DAY: Lake Pointe Baptist Church invites everyone to celebrate a Big Day for the church on Sunday, January 31, 2016, beginning at 10 AM. Lake Pointe is a new church and the new pastor will be introducing the church strategy of “Come! Let Us Build!� in the morning worship on January 31st. The worship music will be led by Anthony Counts, former pastor of Mountain View Baptist Church in Wetumpka. Faron Golden, pastor at Lake Pointe, will be sharing the church’s plan for serving the community and surrounding area through the message from God’s Word. Lake Pointe is located at 8352 Highway 50, Dadeville, Alabama 36853, and is just a short drive from Tallassee. Everyone is welcome. SINGING: Bay Pine Baptist Church in Jacksons Gap will host The Dye’s for a singing Jan. 31 at 10:30 a.m. FIFTH SUNDAY SINGING: A fifth Sunday singing will be held at Sandy Creek Baptist Church on Jan. 31 starting at 5:30 p.m. Local talent from area churches will be featured. Refreshments in the fellowship hall following the singing will be shared by everyone. GOSPEL SINGING: Calvary Heights Baptist Church is hosting a gospel singing with Anna Sailors at its 11 a.m. service Jan. 31 Everyone is invited and a love offering will be taken.
February 1
Small Space Advertising Works!
HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Dr. Mark Conversino will be the speaker for Horizons Unlimited Feb. 1 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. 1 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 child’s birth certificate must be presented at registration.
call the
February 3
Advertising Dept.
256.234.4281
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 child’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 6 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 child’s birth certificate must be presented at registration.
February 7
PASTOR ANNIVERSARY: New Harmony Missionary Baptist Church in Camp Hill will celebrate it’s 7th Pastor’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 child’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 child’s birth certificate must be presented at registration.
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 child’s birth certificate must be presented at registration.
Call 256-234-4281 or stop by our ofĂšce at 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL
FOOT Specialties
Dr. Douglas Stewart Alexander City, AL
256-215-5596 American Board of Podiatric Surgery CertiÂżed
February 11 - February 27
Diabetic Shoes Hospital Surgeries Total Nail Care Hammertoes, Bunions, Corns and Calluses Sports Injuries
February 12
How to add a calendar item:
WETUMPKA DEPOT PLAYERS: Steel Magnolias will be presented by the Wetumpka Depot Players Feb. 11Feb. 27. For ticket information call 334868-1140 or go to wetumpkadepot.com. SOCCER REGISTRATION: Alexander City Youth Soccer will host registration Feb. 12 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m at the Sportplex Gym.
Participate in your
February 13
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.
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
Need your business to
STAND OUT from the crowd?
Call us, we can help!
256.234.4281
February 16
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.
• • • • •
Alexander City Outlook Dadeville Record Wetumpka Herald Eclectic Observer Tallassee Tribune
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 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.
Season Speaks Express Blowout • Highlight Ombre • Gloss • Color Make-Up • Keratin Adult & Children Hair Cuts Bridal & Bachelorette Packages 792 Commerce Drive Suite 103 Alexander City, AL
256.234.2007 256.749.8804
Page 6
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
The Outlook
Kids
Page
Lake Martin Mini Mall
Town & Country Cleaners
7995 Kowaliga Road • 2 Miles S. of Kowaliga Bridge on Hwy. 63 EZd^ FZkmbg Lhno^gbkl Areas Largest Selection of & Accessories
And Shoe Repair
1222 Cherokee Road 212-9600
Wed. - Fri. 10-5•Sat. 9-4•Sun. 1-5 334.857.3900•www.LakeMartinMiniMall.com We Believe in Quality Products!
HOURS: Monday-Friday 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - Noon FULL-SERVICE SALON
Specialized in Color • Precision Cuts Perms • Styling • Nails “We Offer the Best Because You Deserve the Best”
Shear Concepts 708 Commerce Drive Alexander City, AL
(256) 234-4311
IVER
BANK & TRUST S E RV I C E
U N S
D E E P
256-329-0500 www.riverbankandtrust.com
AAA GENERAL CONTRACTORS, INC. 1880 Radio Road•Alexander City, AL
1-800-856-8960 or 256-329-9843
“Where Service & Understanding is not a Slogan, but a Reality”
Commercial and Residential Builders
131 Mason Street • Alexander City (256) 234-6327
STEFUL GIFT IDEA . A TA
Xpress Yourself
Zaxby’s® gift cards are perfect for the chicken lovers in your life. Available in any amount from $5 to $100, So next time you are at Zaxby’s, ask about our gift cards.
BILL WHATLEY
BROKER, CRS, GRI, ABR, SRES
OfÀce: 256-234-5163 • 800-471-LAKE
SHERIFF WE NEED YOUR HELP!! JIMMY ABBETT
FirstRealty@lakemartin.net • www.LakeMartinHomes.net
Help Stop The Drug Trade In Its Tracks!
First Realty_468 Church Street, Alexander City
(256) 825-4264
ZAXBY’S 4497 Hwy. 280 •Alexander City, AL (256) 234-2181 Hours: Fri. & Sat. 10:30-11:00
WEDOWEE MARINE
MARINE
2334 Washington St. Alexander City, AL 35010 Phone: (256) 329-9061 www.crownemanagement.com
1649 Highway 22 West • Alexander City, AL 256-215-5323 We’re Just a Heart Beat Away
3701 Dadeville Road, Alexander City ( 256 ) 234-6366 Rehab• Long-Term Care• Assisted Living
Sun. - Thurs. 10:30-9:00
Currently available only at Zaxby’s store locations. Zaxby’s gift cards can be used at all Zaxby’s store locations.
DOWEE WE
Brown Nursing Home
Bass
Funeral Home and Cremations
21130 Hwy. 431 Wedowee, AL
New & Used Boats • Yamaha Waverunners Yamaha Golf Carts • Full-Service Marina & Service Center • Wet Slips & Dry Storage
256.357.2045
800.780.2045
Embroidery • Screen Printing • Signs 1218 Cherokee Road – Alexander City, AL
(256) 234-7355 www.xpressyourself.net
Ivy Creek Medical Equipment 256.825.0667
Adam’s Health & Rehab We Care About You And Your Loved Ones!
YOUR LAKE MARTIN CHEVY DEALER Full Service Tire Center • Free Estimates Parts, Service & Body Shop 17488 Hwy. 280, Dadeville, AL 256-825-4201 www.mckelveychevrolet.com
SOCIAL SECURITY of Anniston, AL 4004 US Hwy. 431
256-280-8000
www.claytonhomesanniston.com
FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law 135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL
8:00-4:00 Mon.-Fri • By Appt.(Except Emergencies) 256-234-4295 • After Hours 256-329-7100
Temple Medical Clinic, P.C. YOUR FAMIY CARE CENTER Medicine, Office Surgery, Pediatric, & Industrial James P. Temple, M.D. • Timothy J. Cordin, M.D. Vincent Law, M.D.
859 Airport Drive • Alexander City, AL
Fun Carts of Opelika
618 Lee Rd. Opelika, AL 334.745.0560 • www.funcarts.net JIM HADAWAY, OWNER
Open Monday-Friday 8AM__ -6 PM Saturday 8AM-12PM (256) 215-8014
1144 Airport Drive •Alexander City
825-9559 No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
(256) 329-0847
256-825-2100
1555 Hillabee Street Alexander City
10973 County Road 34, Dadeville www.kelleyshvac.com • AL License #99129
DRIVERS NEEDED
1725 Highway 22 West Alexander City
3000 SIGN-ON BONUS $
J&M TANK LINES, INC. jmtankjobs.com or call Jeff Sandlin @ 256-245-3933
(256) 215-3730 Alexander City, AL
Auburn, AL
256-234-5052 334-501-2426 www.advancedheatingandac.com
HENDERSON AND COKER, INC. Mother Goose
Child Development Center Se habla español 645 Scott Road • Alexander City
256.234.3780 www.mothergoosecdc.com
– FINANCING AVAILABLE – Sales • Service • Installation P.O. Box 103, Alex City, AL (256) 329-8488
“We’re Here When You Need Us” Eat At . . .
GENERAL CONTRACTORS
Our goal is very simple: “Complete the job in a timely manner with a customer who would ask us to do his next project.” 256.329.9001 www.hendersonandcoker.com
6684 HWY. 49 SOUTH • DADEVILLE, AL (256) 825-4827 “We Touch the Lives of the People You Love”
GET APPROVED IN A FLASH! 2 Convenient Locations Alexander City, AL
256-234-2400
Camp Hill, AL
256-896-2188
AUTO • COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL
256-234-5464
355 11th Avenue North • Alexander City, AL
DADEVILLE HEALTHCARE CENTER Kim Russell, Administrator 385 E. LaFayette St., Dadeville 256.825.9244
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
Realtors association installs new officers and directors
+
Page 7
+ Buy
Here + Pay Here + + CLEAN USED CARS No Credit Checks
Cars• Vans• Trucks • SUV’s
Midway Auto,Inc. Off Hwy. 280 • Alexander City, AL (On Right Past the River Bridge)
256.825.9830
Bill’s Electric ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
P.O. Box 673 1814 Airpor t Blvd • Alexander Cit y, AL
(256) 234-4555 “PROVIDING QUAALITYY ELEECTRRICALL CONSSTRUUCTIIONN SINCE 196 61”
256-329-1313
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
The Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors installed new officers and directors last week. At the same time the association named Randy Dawkins, below, of River Bank and Trust as its affiliate of the year. New officers and directors are Sherry Peavy, Bill Yeatman, Cal Johnson, Paige Patterson, Amy Clark, Randy Dawkins, John Franklin, Rhonda Gaskins, Barry Keel, John Christenberry, Samantha Spurlin, Jan Hall, Emily McDaniel, Eva Middlebrooks, Todd Clark, Larry Hill, Amy Duncan, John Coley, Sherry Peavy, Sherry Willis, Angela Van Houten, and Rhonda Jaye.
Free Consultations 217 Madison Street, Alexander City, AL “We are a Debt Relief Agency. We help people file Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 under the Bankruptcy Code. Alabama State Bar requires the following in every attorney advertisement, “ No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”
Making a Difference in a Child’s Education
We Care About You and Your Loved Ones!
•Home-like Environment • Specialized Dementia Care Unit •Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Services
A DAMS HEALTH & REHAB 1555 HILLABEE STREET • (256) 329-0847
The following sponsors have joined with The Alexander City Outlook and The Dadeville Record to promote the use of newspapers as an educational resource by providing Tuesday edition papers to city and county schools in the area. • Russell Medical Center • Russell Lands • Representative Mark Tuggle • Tallapoosa County Sheriff, Jimmy Abbett
1720 Dadeville Road • Alexander City, AL
Call Spencer or Dax Today!
256.234.5331 DOWN PAYMENTS As Low
$
As...........
500
MONTHLY PAYMENTS As Low
$
250
As........... *Upon Kerley Motors Approval
• Grace’s Flowers & Gifts • Barbara Young • Udora Berry
Now thru Mar. 31, Receive a 10 year parts & compressor warranty on all York residential system replacements & new installations. Also includes a factory 10-year labor warranty. Buy NEW with Williams and you will have no repair cost for the next 10 years. Excluding maintenance and maintenance related problems i.e. stopped up drain, dirty coil, etc.
Williams Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning Inc Mike Coker 3875 Dadeville Road, Alexander City, AL 35010
256-329-8488 • 256-267-5021 mobile
To become a sponsor in The Alexander City or Tallapoosa County School System Please contact David Kendrick at 256-234-4281 or david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com
TPI
Tallapoosa Publishers,Inc.
548 Cherokee Rd., Alexander City, AL 35010
ClassiÄeds
Lake & River Phone (256) 277-4219 Fax (205) 669-4217 The Alexander City Outlook
Reaching more than 22,000 households in Tallapoosa and Elmore counties The Dadeville Record
classifieds@alexcityoutlook.com public.notices@alexcityoutlook.com classifieds@thewetumpkaherald.com public.notices@thewetumpkaherald.com
The Eclectic Observer
The Tallassee Tribune
The Wetumpka Herald
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
The Outlook
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 9
Page 10
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
The Outlook
POLAR PLUNGE With freezing temperatures and cold water, Lake Martin Young Professionals host polar plunge to benefit Lake Martin Resource Association Top, plungers leave the water as quickly as they entered it only to find the frigid temperatures. Right, plungers try to keep warm prior to the plunge around a fire at Kowlagia beach. Far right, one plunger almost got stuck before getting wet. Below left, a large and warm crowd watches as others choose to get wet. Below right, plungers exit the water to quickly run to tents set up to warm them back up. One tent provided coffee, hot chocolate and and adult beverages.
Photographs by Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Did You ? w o Kn
ACCORDING TO A RECENT SURVEY READERS SPEND AN
AVERAGE OF 23 MINUTES A DAY WITH THEIR PAPER. THAT’S 30,000 LOYAL, LOCAL & REPEAT READERS WHO COULD BE YOUR CUSTOMER.
CALL US TODAY.
Since 1884, The Alex City Outlook has been a part of the area longer than any other business. Our mission is to report local community news, keep our readers informed and help businesses grow through marketing & advertising.
256.234.4281 • 548 Cherokee Road • Alexander City, AL w w w. a l e x c i t y o u t l o o k . c o m
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Page 11
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
2016 CALENDAR QUEENS Sashes, crowns and smiles all around from this year’s Miss Outlook Pageant.
Pageant
continued from page 1
we thank everyone who had a part in this year’s pageant. Congratulations to all of our winners and all who attended the pageant.” The winners in all categories were:
PETITE MISS
Petite Miss Congeniality Petite Miss January Petite Miss February Petite Miss April Petite Miss June Petite Miss August Petite Miss Photogenic Petite Miss Sportswear Petite Miss Exemplary Petite Miss Party Dress Petite Miss Spring (4th) Petite Miss Summer Petite Miss Autumn Petite Miss Winter Petite Miss Outlook
Kirklynn Marable Rylee Jordan Samantha Robinson Isabella Harper Jakya Leigh Sims Lynlee Ratliff Samantha Robinson Alyssa Channell Kayden Morgan Kirklynn Marable Covyn Holt Kirklynn Marable Mary Bradley Daniel Alyssa Channell Kayden Morgan
LITTLE MISS
Little Miss Congeniality Little Miss January Little Miss March Little Miss May Little Miss July Little MIss September Little Miss October Little Miss November Little Miss December Little Miss Photogenic Little Miss Sportswear Little Miss Exemplary
Madison Hamlet Emma Culligan Jacey Ratliff Victoria Spann Annie Zhang Jada Leonard Katie Cotney Anabelle Gordon Promys Smith Madison Hamlet Raylee Moore Carly Railey
Top, overall winners MacKenzie Willoughby (Junior Miss Outlook), Amanda Hall (Miss Outlook), Raylee Moore (Little Miss Outlook), and Kayden Morgan (Petite Miss Outlook) pose for a photo in the winner’s circle. Middle, runner up contestants from all categories join together for a photo. Above, Miss Outlook Amanda Hall struts across the stage in her sportswear for the evening. Kayden Morgan smiles after she is crowned Petite Miss Outlook. Left, Junior Miss MacKenzie Willoughby basks in her crowning moment. Right, Raylee Moore gives a celebratory smile after being crowned Little Miss Outlook.
Photos by Mitch Sneed and Kenneth Boone
Little Miss Party Dress Little Miss Spring Little Miss Summer Little Miss Autumn Little Miss Winter Little Miss Outlook
Raylee Moore Shelby Saucier Tess McKinley Carly Railey Madison Hamlet Raylee Moore
JUNIOR MISS
Junior Miss Congeniality Maddie McClendon Junior Miss January Rachel Blackmon Junior Miss Photogenic Hannah Henderson Junior Miss Sportswear Hannah Henderson Junior Miss Exemplary MacKenzie Willoughby Junior Miss Evening Dress Mackenzie Willoughby Junior Miss Spring Cali Jones Junior Miss Summer Maddie McClendon Junior MissAutumn Madolyn Daniel Junior Miss Winter Hannah Henderson Junior Miss Outlook MacKenzie Willoughby Miss Congenialty Miss January Miss February Miss Photogenic Miss Sportswear Miss Exemplary Miss Evening Dress Miss Spring Miss Summer Miss Autumn Miss Winter Miss Outlook
MISS
Lacey Newman Hannah Royal Kynsley Blasingame Sydney Pemberton Carlee Sharpe Lacey Newman Sydney Pemberton Carlee Sharpe Sydney Pemberton Lacey Newman Landry Carter Amanda Hall
ROBERT HUDSON SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
sports@alexcityoutlook.com
Page 12
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
www.alexcityoutlook.com
BACK IN ACTION Lady Wildcats return to practice field with 2016 season on the horizon By Robert Hudson Outlook Sports Editor
The Benjamin Russell Lady Wildcats returned to the practice field last Tuesday as they hope to build on last year’s quarterfinal finish. The Lady Wildcats held their first practice of the year last week as they prepare for the start of the 2016 season. BRHS Coach Lee Wagoner said the major focus has been getting back into shape before the season kicks off on Feb. 9 at home. “We officially started practice on last Tuesday and we continued to do our off-season program,” Wagoner said. “We practiced during the summer and actually had a play date against Smiths Station where we ended up tying. It was good to have competition in the off-season. Of course, we continued our conditioning the first week of the school year, and on Tuesday we just got back together, tried to get our legs underneath us and get back into soccer shape. “Doing conditioning is one thing, but actually getting back to playing soccer and getting into game shape is a different type of fitness there.” In a sport where players often run miles over the course of a single game, Wagoner said proper fitness will be especially important because BRHS will have an abundance of games to open up the year. “Soccer, it all starts with conditioning and being fit because at the beginning of the season we’re going to get going quickly with some games,” Wagoner said. “The first week we’re opening the season up against Northridge of Tuscaloosa, who is the team that put us out in the quarterfinal round of the playoffs last year. Then we’ll quickly go to the Southern Shootout that following weekend and play four
games down there, then play again that following Tuesday at home against a quality 7A school in McGill-Toolen. So we’re going to have a lot of games at the beginning of the season and are going to need that fitness.” While BRHS lost a number of key seniors from last season, Wagoner said the Lady Wildcats return some experience. “We lost a big group of six seniors last year, but we also have six rising seniors this year. Most all of them have experience,” Wagoner said. “Ruth Anne Ballard has been a starter for the varsity for four or five years now and she was an AHSAA All-Star selection during the summer. We’ve also got Sydney Pemberton, another long-time starter for varsity. She’s a versatile player. we’ve got Karina Naranjo returning, and our goalkeeper from last year, Charlie Lutz, is returning from last year, but Charlie is probably going to see some time in the field this year. That may be a transition for her, but I know she’s up to the task for it. “We also have Brittany McVey and Kalynda Berry, two seniors that saw good minutes last year, but I’m looking for them to increase their role this year.” Wagoner said while he is confident in the team’s defense, the Lady Wildcats will have to replace a lot of goals from last season’s team. “I think we’ve got a very talented group of girls this year. I think we’ll be sound defensively because we’ve got a lot of returning defensive players, so I’m not too terribly concerned with our defense,” Wagoner said. “It’s going to be our goal scoring that we’re going to have to see some girls step up quickly. We’re replacing three girls from last year that combined for 92 percent
of our goal scoring. We lost two of those to graduation and only one, Daly Wagoner, is returning. So, we’re looking for some of the younger girls to step up and fill some goalscoring voids we might have.” Wagoner said the goal this season is to build on last year’s success, but added the Lady Wildcats know they will have to work hard in order to move forward. “I think the success that we had last year with making it to the quarterfinals and being within 30 seconds of making the Final Four, we accomplished a great thing there and made a mark with our program,” Wagoner said. “But what I told the girls is that we can’t be complacent with it. Just because we accomplished it last year doesn’t mean we can expect to get there this year – we’ve got to put in the work and this is a new year. We’re a brand new team and we’ve got to earn our way Robert Hudson / The Outlook back to where we want to be, At top, Nia Jones, left, and Daly Wagoner compete for the ball during and that’s definitely the Final Monday’s practice at Hamp Lyon Stadium. At bottom, BRHS Coach Lee Four.” Wagoner goes over a drill with the Lady Wildcats.
These are the best years of Alabama football D
ang you, al.com. I had an idea to write a story. A story about Nick Saban’s Alabama in a “by the numbers” fashion. You know, have a random number then describe that number’s significance in relation to Nick Saban’s tenure at the Capstone and all? Well, of course al.com has a story with the same theme last week so it looks like I stole the idea from them (when ACTUALLY I stole the idea from someone else a while back)! Mine varied slightly as the one on al.com was more about the 2015 team only and mine is more Saban-centric so I guess there’s that. Anyhoo, I am writing it anyway. These numbers were verified as best as possible; which means I kinda checked them, but still believe they are correct. If I miss something by a percentage point, forgive me in advance. 98….. Since 2008, Alabama has played 110 games under Saban. It has won 98 of those contests. By comparison, LSUa team still having arguably its best run on the gridiron ever- has won 78 games in the same period. Auburn, despite 2 SEC titles and 2 national title appearances, has only won 65 games and Tennessee has a
LUKE ROBINSON Sports Columnist
mere 49 victories in that time. 12…. The teams that have beaten Alabama since 2008 seasons had these post-season destinations: 4 Sugar Bowls, 3 BCS Title games, 2 Cotton Bowls, 2 Peach Bowls, and 1 College Football Playoff Title game. Five of those 12 teams played in the SEC title game and three won the national championship as well. 3….. Three of the 12 teams that defeated Alabama since 2008 were led by Heisman winning quarterbacks. Alabama defeated 2 of those three the next time they played in the subsequent season. 0….. In 2008, the Tide had zero players drafted into the NFL in any round. 17…. Since that time, ‘Bama has had SEVENTEEN players drafted in the FIRST ROUND ALONE. 7….. Alabama has had seven running backs grace the coveted cover of Sports Illustrated since 2008 (Glen Coffee, Mark
Ingram, Eddie Lacy, Trent Richardson, Derrick Henry, TJ Yeldon and Kenyan Drake). Six of those seven were recruited by Saban. The number is actually eight if you include Shaun Alexander who ( I am pretty sure) was pictured celebrating in the background during Drake’s TD cover. 2000…. Michigan State had not been shutout since the 2000 season before the Tide ran roughshod over the Spartans 38-0 in the College Football Playoff this year. 17 (again)….. From 2007 to present, Alabama has shutout opponents a remarkable 17 times (nine were SEC teams). Meanwhile, the Tide has not been shutout themselves in those seasons. For perspective, Auburn has shutout out just one team in that span (Louisiana- Monroe) but has been held scoreless three times since 2008 (twice by Alabama). 52…. The combined win totals of Alabama’s opponents in the national title games since 2008 was 52-0. The combined record after those four games is 52-4. 15…. Calvin Ridley is now 15th on Alabama’s alltime career receptions list despite only having played one full season in Tuscaloosa.
Unbelievably, with just 14 catches next season he will surpass legends Ozzie Newsome and David Palmer. Three other Saban recruits- Amari Cooper, Julio Jones and Marquis Mazerank 1, 3 and 5 respectively in career receptions by the way. 4 and 5…. Four of the top 7 rushing leaders and five of the top 8 rushing TD leaders were recruited by Saban. Incredibly, all hold these marks despite each leaving for the NFL after only 3 seasons of play. 50…. Alabama seniors set an SEC record 50 wins in their four years. 20…. The most points Tennessee has scored against Alabama since Saban’s arrival is 20 points. In his tenure, the Tide is 9-0 against the Vols winning by an average score of 33-12. 100…. Starting in 2008, 100 percent of the national title contests either featured Alabama or a team that beat Alabama in that respective season. In 2011, the game featured both (Alabama and LSU which had defeated the Tide in the regular season before the rematch). Also, 100 percent of Saban’s recruiting classes at Alabama have SEC and National Championship rings and 100 percent of career and single season offensive records
are held by players recruited by Saban. 37,100…. In 2008, Alabama’s enrollment was 27,052. In 2015, it was 37,100. Football’s success and impact on the school’s brand has certainly contributed to that increase. .833…. Nick Saban’s winning percentage against the AP No. 1 team in his nine years at Alabama (5-1). 8…. Alabama has won ten or more games for eight consecutive years. An unreal feat considering the SEC (and more specifically, the SEC West) has never been stronger. I have said it before and I will say it again: These are the best years of Alabama football; enjoy them. Go to the games. Watch the replays. Get the autographs. Brag. Be a Bammer. Gump it up (within reason). Soak in this current dynasty like white bread in Dreamland sauce and appreciate the fact you are watching the best be the best for as long as you can. For all glory is fleeting and this run will not last forever, but it is sure a beautiful crimson sight to behold. Robinson is a sports columnist for The Outlook and is president of the Lake Martin Area Bama Club.