FRIDAY
THE LOCAL, PAGE 11 Residents have plenty of laughs at pageant
SPORTS, PAGE 12
BRHS’ Jones signs with Gulf Coast Prep Sports Academy
Lighting the way for Alexander City & Lake Martin since 1892
May 18, 2018 Vol. 126, No. 99 www.alexcityoutlook.com 75¢
SNAKE SCARE:
Tommy Minor shows off the 64-inch timber rattler he killed Wednesday afternoon near Buck Creek in Dadeville. Minor is pictured with his grandson Eli Patterson and granddaughter Willow Patterson. Local animal control officials warn residents to be cautious and aware as snake sightings may become more common as the weather warms up.
Dadeville man encounters, kills large timber rattler
cameras because I hadn’t been out there since turkey season ended. I like to check and see what they catch and document what was in the area at different times. A leisurely afternoon in the woods checking “I checked the first one and put the card in and on game cameras took a frightening turn when a went on to the next one and I knelt down next to Dadeville man encountered a very large timber the tree and took out the card and looked at the rattlesnake coiled up just a foot away from where images and saw some deer on there. After I put the he had been kneeling. card in and got it all set, I started to walk away. Tommy Minor’s encounter with what was a Have you ever walked through the woods and you massive snake relative to the breed was in the Buck Creek area not far from downtown Dadeville know how you step on a stick and you feel it brush against your leg? Well it felt just like that and I Wednesday afternoon. looked down and didn’t see a stick. Then, I caught “It was raining in Auburn so I got off a little a glimpse of one of its eyes, right there just a step early and headed home,” Minor recalled. “After See SNAKE • Page 3 lunch I decided to go out and check on my By MITCH SNEED Editor
Submitted / The Outlook
Wind Creek set for statewide walking effort
Norris is new postmaster in Alex City
By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
A familiar face has been named the new postmaster in Alexander City. Rachel Norris was officially named postmaster Saturday after serving as officer in charge for the Norris last five months following a retirement in December. It is a position she is ready for even at 38, having worked almost every job in postal service. “I started in Sylacauga as a rural route associate in 2006,” Norris said. “Then I transferred here to be a city carrier in 2013. I was already helping customers when I was promoted to supervisor in 2016 and See POSTMASTER • Page 7
Today’s
Weather
85 67 High
Lake Levels
490.53 Reported on 05/17/18 @ 3 p.m.
LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443
laceyshowell@gmail.com 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL
54708 90050 USPS Permit # 013-080
Benjamin Russell senior Emily Roberts is congratulated on her upcoming graduation by students at Jim Pearson Elementary School Thursday morning during the traditional Senior Walk. Groups of BRHS seniors walked through all the elementary schools Thursday decked out in caps and gowns.
BRHS seniors commemorate achievements with annual tradition By DONALD CAMPBELL Staff Writer
The Benjamin Russell High School Class of 2018 appeared at school Thursday morning dressed in their graduation robes. However, instead of heading for the Sportplex for
commencement ceremonies, the seniors loaded onto buses heading for any of the four other schools in the Alexander City system for the school’s second annual Senior Walk. “The senior class officers of 2017 started this,” BRHS counselor Kerrie Carr said. “The senior See BRHS • Page 3
HELPING HAND:
Alexander City Fire Department helps local mom attend children’s honors day program
By MITCH SNEED Editor
Low
Lake Martin
6
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Wind Creek State Park has partnered with the 100 Alabama Miles Challenge to help get Alabamians out and moving. Scheduling hikes is nothing new to Marijean Hadley, volunteer naturalist and event coordinator at the park and hopes the partnership with the 100 Alabama Miles Challenge will get more people out. “A lot of the state parks are taking part in it,” Hadley said. “This 100 Alabama Mile Challenge was organized to get people active. Get people out and moving and then start again next year.” Hadley also hopes the project will encourage others to log their activities and see what else is out there. “Anything that anybody does can count towards the 100 miles,” Hadley said. “People can walk, paddle or hike and then you can log it on the 100 Alabama Miles See CHALLENGE • Page 7
8
Alexander City is blessed with highly-trained first responders who go the extra mile to keep residents safe. Citizens often see them rushing with lights and sirens going to accident scenes, fires and helping in times of trouble. What residents rarely see are the countless things they do behind the scenes that many never know about, going the extra mile to help people who have nowhere else to turn. Just ask Donna Russell about what the Alexander City Fire Department did for her daughter Leigh Russell Wednesday. “My daughter Leigh suffers from Multiple Sclerosis and since she was diagnosed back in 2012, outside of doctor visits, she really hasn’t been able to go out to functions,” Russell See HELPING • Page 9
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Alexander City Fire Department Lt. Tommy Hunter and Tim Jones stand by after transporting Leigh Russell, far right, to honors day at Jim Pearson School Wednesday. Her mom Donna Russell, shown beside her daughter, said the help and kindness shown by the first responders went over and above the call of duty.
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Trampoline next door poses risk for sun-loving neighbor
Saturday
88 67 Low
High
Partly sunny, slight chance of thunderstorms
Sunday
88 66 Low
High
Chance of thunderstorms
Staff
Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Amy Passaretti Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com Lizi Arbogast Sports Editor, Ext. 228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com
Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com Donald Campbell Staff Writer, Ext. 208 donald.campbell@alexcityoutlook.com Santana Wood Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 santana.wood@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Katie Wesson Retail Sales Manager, Ext. 232 tkatie.wesson@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Digital Marketing Coordinator, Ext. 231 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Jessica Ware Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 jessica.ware@alexcityoutlook.com Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 219 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 219 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com Erin Burton Office Assistant, Ext. 204 erin.burton@alexcityoutlook.com
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) Kenneth Boone The Outlook is published five times Photography and a week, Tuesday through Saturday a commercial web mornings, by Tallapoosa Publish- printing press. ers, Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.
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POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.
Friday, May 18, 2018
The Outlook
© 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
DEAR ABBY: I have really nice neighbors, and we are always pleasant to each other. We put up a large aboveground pool in our backyard, and they put up a trampoline. I would like to enjoy our pool (how to put this delicately?) without tan lines. I do not want to offend them or expose myself to their teenage son when he’s jumping on their trampoline. Is there a tactful way to ask them to move the trampoline since there is no other way to stay discreet in my own backyard? -- NO TAN LINES DEAR NO TAN LINES: Have you not heard about “tan through” fabrics? They were invented years ago to help women achieve a “summertime glow” without the risk of being reported for indecent exposure. You can find more information about this type of swimwear online by searching “no tan line swimsuit.” One caveat: Dermatologists recommend avoiding the sun
DEAR ABBY Advice
to prevent skin cancers. When using these garments, make sure to use sunscreen underneath the swimsuit so you will achieve an all-over tan instead of a nasty all-over sunburn. DEAR ABBY: I recently discovered my wife was having an “emotional affair” with an also-married co-worker. She swears it wasn’t physical, but their texts contain professions of love for each other and claims of “I can’t wait to see you again.” As I read them, my heart was pounding out of my chest, and I wasn’t sure if I would survive the day. My wife blames it on my emotional shortcomings. I agree that we have had
word an invitation suggesting that the boy guests bring only a gift for him, and the girl guests bring only a gift for her without sounding tacky? We don’t want to overburden people who may feel obligated to bring something for each child. Frankly, they have been blessed materially, and are in need of very little. -- PERPLEXED PARTY PLANNER DEAR PERPLEXED: Why not send separate invitations for each twin? It may save their friends’ parents some confusion. And consider including “If you have questions or need further information, call me” on the invitations as well.
DEAR ABBY: Our boyand-girl twins are celebrating another birthday soon. They will be 5 and want a joint party. They have mutual friends, as well as other, individual friends. What’s the best way to
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.
Obituaries Ms. Louise Gamble
Mrs. Rebecca Lynn Hall
Funeral service for Ms. Louise Gamble of Daviston, Alabama will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 19, 2018 at Mt. Godfrey Methodist Church with interment following in the church cemetery.
Funeral Service for Mrs. Rebecca Lynn Hall, 46 of Sylacauga, Alabama will be held 3:00 p.m. Saturday, May 19, 2018 at Marietta Baptist Church, Goodwater, Alabama with interment following in the church cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, May 18, 2018 from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Professional Service provided by Wright’s Funeral Home
Professional Service provided by Wright’s Funeral Home
Mrs. Martha Ellington Funeral Services for Mrs. Martha Ellington will be held Saturday May 19, 2018 at 1 p.m. at Zion Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. Pastor Alfred Williams officiating. No public viewing per the request of the family. Interment will follow at Macedonia Gardens in Goodwater. Zion Memorial Funeral Home Of Sylacauga directing. (256)245-1454 Alabama’s Premiere Funeral Directors.
Mrs. Ernestine Walker Mrs. Ernestine Walker, 51 of Dadeville, AL died Wednesday, May 16, 2018 at Baptist Medical Center East, Montgomery, AL. Final arrangements pending.
The Learning Tree
issues. But I love her very much, and I don’t want to see our marriage fail. No one forced her to have an affair. But she refuses to accept that. How can I get her to acknowledge that what she did has threatened our marriage and gutted me? -- HURTING IN OKLAHOMA DEAR HURTING: Unless you and your wife are willing to deal with the issues that led to her having the emotional affair, she may continue to seek fulfillment elsewhere. Stop arguing and agree to go as a couple to a licensed marriage and family therapist. You both have work to do repairing your relationship, and doing so may take time and mediation.
Final Arrangements Entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Funeral Home.
Ms. Gladys Marie Tarver Byrd Ms. Gladys Marie Tarver Byrd of Opelika, Alabama passed away Thursday, May 17, 2018 at the Bethany House, Auburn, Alabama. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by Wright’s Funeral Home.
Helping Children Learn and Grow
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS 2ND AND 3RD SHIFT FOR DIRECT CARE
Mr. William Burns Funeral service for Mr. William Burns, Sr. 81 of Jacksons Gap, AL; 1PM; Saturday, May 19, 2018; Armour’s Memorial Chapel, Alexander City, AL. Burial, Dadeville City Cemetery, Dadeville, AL Viewing: Friday, May 18, 2018. 12-7; Family gathering starts at 5pm at funeral home. Burns died Wednesday, May 16, 2018 at Bethany House in Auburn, AL.
Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street, Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Shatia Carr (334)252-0025 Ext. 101 Email: Scarr@learning-tree.org
SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON
Final Arrangements Entrusted to Armour’s Memorial Funeral Home.
Julia Coley Duncan Harris passed away at the age of 77. She was proceeded in death by her father Mr. Thomas Edward Duncan and mother, Mrs. Julia Coley Duncan. She is survived by her husband Dr. James Tyra Harris, her two daughters Julia Anne Marie Sather, Kristin Sather Caldwell and husband Chris, and son Austin Samuel Harris, her sister Delia Duncan Jurica, grandson Andrew Keaton Harris, granddaughter Evelyn Griffin, and step-son Jay Tyra Harris and step-daughter Amelia Harris and numerous Coley, Duncan, and Fox cousins. Mrs. Harris graduated from Alex City High School, Agnes Scott College, and the University of Minnesota. She was the author of a critically acclaimed novel, Halfway Home. She had a successful career with Sankey 2 Advertising, retiring in 1996. She belongs to a Bible study group, Spirit Ladies, Canterbury United Methodist Church (Aldergate Class), and a number of caring groups. Visitation at 10:00 a.m. in the parlor with memorial service following at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 19, 2018 in the contemporary Sanctuary at Canterbury United Methodist, 350 Overbrook Road, Mountain Brook, Al 35213
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Julia Coley Duncan Harris August 20, 1940 - May 16, 2018
How to submit obituaries Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by email at obits@alexcityoutlook.com For more information, call 256-234-4281
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Special / The Outlook
This drawing of a stormy day was made by Kalea Dowdell, a second-grader at Dadeville Elementary School. Today’s National Weather Service forecast calls for a high temperature of 85 and a low of 67 with thunderstorms likely in the daytime hours. The chance for storms decreases as the evening goes on. Saturday will be partly sunny with a 30 percent chance of thunderstorms and a high of 88 and low of 67. Sunday the chance for thunderstorms is 50 percent with a high of 88 and low of 66.
Friday, May 18, 2018
The Outlook
Page 3
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BRHS
continued from page 1
class officers have helped plan this each of the past two years.” During the Senior Walk, the graduating class parades through the hallways of the other schools in Alexander City, allowing them to look back on their past, while also giving the younger students the chance to see what their future may hold. “A quarter of the students go to Jim Pearson, a quarter go to Stephens, a quarter go to Radney and a quarter go to the middle school,” Carr said. “It’s exciting for the seniors to get this applause and recognition. We want the younger students to see the graduates in their caps and gowns and realize that’s something they can work toward. We want to make an impression on them. “The teachers at the other schools really enjoy us coming. It’s an opportunity for them to see many of their former students.” As the seniors made their way through the hallways of each school Thursday morning, cheers and applause echoed down the corridor, while several seniors and younger students alike took the time to offer up high-fives to each other as the procession moved along. Along with the excitement, there were some seniors who experienced a wide range of emotions, including one who was crying and commenting that it was sad as the group prepared to return to Benjamin Russell. For both Senior Walks, the senior officers decided to hold it the day before Senior Awards Day in the Benjamin Russell auditorium, and Carr said the current plan is to continue holding it at that particular time. “The seniors are really on board with this,” Carr said. “We’re excited to be able to do this every year. It’s something we want to continue doing. It’s a real honor for the seniors to be able to do this.”
Jim Pearson principal Jamie Forbus leads as the Benjamin Russell High School seniors walk through the halls of the elementary school for the annual Senior Walk tradition Thursday morning and below, a group of BRHS senior girls walk through the halls of Mitch Sneed / The Outlook Jim Pearson.
Submitted / The Outlook
BRHS seniors walk into Stephens Elementary School as the elementary students line their path to congratulate and cheer them on for their achievement of graduating high school.
Snake
continued from page 1
away from me. So, I backed out of there as quick as I could to put some distance between it and me.” Minor said normally he leaves snakes alone. Knowing it appeared to be a rattler and with his grandchildren often in those same woods riding bikes, four-wheelers and playing, he thought it would be a good idea to make sure it wasn’t around to cause them any harm. I found three pretty large rocks and got them together just in case I missed him at first,” Minor said. “I whomped him in the head pretty good with the first one and that killed him.” Once he was sure the snake was dead, he got a closer look. What he saw was a very large snake that was as big around as his forearm. After it was measured, he found it to be 64 inches long and had a circumference of just over 10 inches. “I went ahead and skinned it out and I couldn’t believe how long it was,” Minor said. “Being a hunter, I’ve seen all kinds of snakes over the years, but that one was a big one.” According to reptilemagazine.com, the timber rattler is the third most deadly snake in North America and the one that Minor killed is indeed very large for the breed. “The timber rattler can grow to more than five feet with the largest recorded at a few inches beyond 6 feet,” the website states. “Typical adults will be near 40 inches.” At 5 feet, 4 inches long, it was definitely larger than average adult. While there have been a number of snake calls for Alexander City Animal Control already this spring, there’s no indication that snakes are more abundant
or moving more this year than any other year. Officials say as temperatures warm, snakes are increasingly active and spotted more often by residents. “This time of year, the snakes are coming out, trying to lay in the sun and warm up,” Alexander City Animal Control Officer Ken Vernon said earlier this year after answering a call from a resident that reported a snake in their home. “It’s warmed up pretty quickly, so they’re going to sun themselves and be stirring for food. That’s why people see them more this time of year, because they are trying to warm up, so they’re out in the open. As a rule, it you don’t bother them they won’t bother you, so give them some room and you will usually be fine.” The United States Department of Agriculture offers some helpful tips to avoid contact with rattlesnakes if you are in wild settings To avoid rattlesnake bites, the USDA recommends: • Wear appropriate over-the-ankle hiking boots, thick socks, and loose-fitting long pants. Never go barefoot or wear sandals when walking through wild areas. • When hiking, stick to well-used trails if at all possible. • Avoid tall grass, weeds and heavy underbrush where snakes may hide during the day. • Look at your feet to watch where you step and do not put your foot in or near a crevice where you cannot see. • Do not step or put your hands where you cannot see, and avoid wandering around in the dark. • If a fallen tree or large rock is in your path, step up on to it instead of over it, as there might be a snake on the other side. • Be especially careful when climbing
rocks or gathering firewood. • Check out stumps or logs before sitting down, and shake out sleeping bags before use. • Do not turn over rocks or logs. If you must move a rock or log, use gloves and roll it toward you, giving anything beneath it the opportunity to escape in the opposite direction. • Never grab “sticks” or “branches” while swimming in lakes and rivers.
Rattlesnakes can swim. • Avoid approaching any snake you cannot positively identify as a safe species. • If you hear the warning rattle, move away from the area and do not make sudden or threatening movements in the direction of the snake. • Remember rattlesnakes do not always rattle before they strike! • Do not handle a freshly killed snake it can still inject venom.
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Opinion
MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213 editor@alexcityoutlook.com
EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
Page 4
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Good nursing homes are a vital part of community
M
oving a loved one into a nursing home is one of life’s turning points – both for the family and the individual. There is no real pleasure in it for anyone. It can be traumatic and painful. Against this backdrop, communities all over the nation are celebrating National Nursing Home Week and all that a nursing home can mean for a family and the mom, dad, brother or sister who will be the future resident. The finest nursing homes do their best to minimize the trauma and lessen the pain of loss, both emotionally and financially. They treat family and soon-to-be-residents as people, not just as numbers on checks. The finest nursing homes rehabilitate as well as offer residence. Many, including those in our community, offer superb rehabilitative care. They get their elderly clients up and about and they assist the not so elderly clients to be independent regardless of the battles they face. The finest nursing homes provide exactly what the name implies – a home to those who need special care and attention. They are warm, friendly places with excellent staffs and medical care. They can offer treatment in ways that no other places can and they allow residents to live out their remaining years with the dignity, respect and care they deserve. Tallapoosa County has one of the highest concentrations of nursing home beds in the state per capita, which means there is a tremendous demand here. This week we have been alerted to many activities planned to celebrate this week at nursing homes and rehabilitation centers in the Lake Martin community. From beauty pageants, to special dinners, to activities that highlight the good work being done by dedicated professionals who provide care, we have seen clients with big smiles as they were treated to activities that stimulate the mind, heart and soul. What we have learned is that we have the finest nursing homes and rehabilitation centers anywhere right here in our own backyard. So, during National Nursing Home Week, we salute those in our area who provide this special kind of care.
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.
Steve Marshall was appointed Alabama’s 50th Attorney General. He was appointed in 2017 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. Mark Tuggle (R) represents the 81st District covering Coosa, Chilton and Tallapoosa counties. He can be reached by phone at 256392-2006 or by email at tughd81@gmail.com. His office is 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 at 334-242-7865. His office is located at 337 East Magnolia Drive, Auburn. Clyde Chambliss Jr. represents Senate District 30, which includes portions of Elmore, Autauga, Chilton, Coosa and Tallapoosa counties. He can be reached at 334-343-7883 or at clyde. chambliss@alsenate.gov
Kay Ivey
Steve Marshall
Mark Tuggle
Tom Whatley
Clyde Chambliss
T
wo years ago in Atlanta, Georgia, I went to see Donald Trump speak during the presidential campaign. He openly talked about dealing with North Korea, noting the possibility of peace negotiations. What was there to lose? As we’ve learned from this week’s diplomatic spat with North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un, totalitarian leaders cannot be trusted to commit to any agreement. At this point, it might be smarter to walk away rather than pursue that Nobel Prize for a peace accord that won’t be honored by the North Korean regime anyway. The peace summit proposed for Helsinki later this month is in jeopardy, and all talks between both Korean governments are off. The reason any peace agreement is in jeopardy is National Security Adviser John Bolton. He announced the agreement sought with North Korea would resemble that of Libya, which willingly gave up its nuclear, chemical and biological weapons programs. Kim Jong-un remembers better than Bolton what happened to Muammar Gadhafi, the Libyan leader who signed the deal. After slaughtering protesters during the Arab Spring, he was ousted by NATO forces and executed by rebels. It was not the smartest analogy to make, though Gadhafi did earn his fate, being responsible for hundreds of Americans and other Westerners who died at the hands of terrorism by his security forces and terror groups who trained in Libya, both being responsible for attacks on commercial airplanes, airports and other
Friday, May 18, 2018
The
Why you can’t trust communist regimes
Our
Governor Kay Ivey represents the state of Alabama and its 67 counties. She was sworn into office on April 10, 2017, and can be reached at 334242-7100. Her office is located at the State Capitol at 600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, Alabama.
Outlook
JOHN TURES Columnist targets. Having seen what happened to Saddam Hussein (who didn’t have nukes), or Gadhafi who game up his nuclear ambitions, what do you think Kim Jong-un would do? But Bolton’s blunder may have inadvertently saved the Trump administration from making a “bad deal.” Whatever flattery the two could heap upon each other would be a pair of empty gestures. Actions speak louder than words. And communist governments have a poor track record of sticking to deals. During the Cold War, we learned the hard lessons of (1) accepting a 38th parallel border before North Korea’s invasion of South Korea, (2) the Geneva Accords over South Vietnam that were never honored by the Northern government, (3) the SALT II Treaty signed by Jimmy Carter and Leonid Brezhnev just before the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, and these are just a few cases. That’s why President Ronald Reagan was smart to walk away from talks with Yuri Andropov in Geneva. Even Reagan’s deal with Mikhail Gorbachev (the INF Treaty) denuclearizing Europe, is under siege by Vladimir Putin. Speaking of Putin, the ex-KGB officer now in charge of Russia is another leader cut from the same cloth as his former masters, who should not be trusted. He is still the same man
who threatened to kill prodemocracy demonstrators moving against the old spy agency as the USSR crumbled, even as he claims today to be an ardent Christian and friend of the USA, with no territorial ambitions whatsoever in East Europe, the Middle East or Central Asia. Trump should also stop trying to help Chinese Communist President Xi Jinping and his ZTE technology company, long identified by the U.S. government as playing a role in espionage and was recently sanctioned by the commerce department on charges of stealing American intellectual property. Warming up to Russia’s Putin, helping China’s ZTE company get jobs at the expense of its American company rival Apple, crafting a deal with North Korea that might involve “denuclearization” at the expense of the withdrawal of the U.S. Eighth Army from South Korea and making our ally less secure are all examples of our government’s newfound confidence in Communist regimes, or those led by ex-communists. But such faith is unwarranted, lest we make the same mistakes from the past in trusting the Soviet Union, Mao Tse-Tung, North Vietnam or North Korea at unfortunate junctures during the Cold War. John A. Tures is a professor of political science at LaGrange College in LaGrange, Georgia. He can be reached at jtures@lagrange. edu. His Twitter account is JohnTures2.
Today’s
Quote
“Be miserable. Or motivate yourself. Whatever has to be done, it’s always your choice.” —Wayne Dyer
Today’s
Scripture “Oh, the depth and riches of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out.” —Romans 11:33
alexcityoutlook.com
Daily Poll Thursday Question: Do you feel safe in Alexander City?
Yes – 52%, 12 votes No – 48%, 11 votes
Friday’s Question: Have you seen a snake on your property or anywhere around the lake community this year? To participate in this daily poll, log on each day to www. alexcityoutlook.com and vote. Find out the vote totals in the next edition of The Outlook and see if your vote swayed the results.
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Misunderstanding and Sunday lunch
I
nearly had my Sunday lunch ruined last week over a misunderstanding. I overheard my wife talking on the phone and she said, “That oversized, stuffed, Butterball turkey has made me miserable.” I knew I had put on a few pounds, ate too much for lunch, maybe needed to work out and wasn’t always the most pleasant fellow to be around, but an oversized, stuffed, Butterball turkey seemed like a pretty harsh criticism, even from my wife. The more I thought about it, the more depressed I became. I even thought about not eating the rest of the banana pudding I was holding. There was no reason for me to hold anything against the pudding — after all, it hadn’t done anything — so I finished it off. This was a remark that still needed to be addressed. As I sat there drinking my hot chocolate with marshmallows, I knew I needed to confront this head on. Being the sensitive soul I am, I could hardly nibble on my Little Debbie cake. Guess what? She wasn’t talking about me after all. She was talking about another oversized, stuffed, Butterball turkey. No, wait a minute, I mean she was referring to the turkey we ate for lunch. It seems I had simply overreacted for some
series of events. Someone thinks they heard someone GERALD say that someone overheard HALLMARK another person talking, and therefore it must be true. Columnist Situations develop, get out of hand and damage is done, all because of what was thought, reason. Maybe it was because and not what was known. I thought I represented that Jesus reminded us if we remark, or maybe it came know the truth, the truth closer to home than I realized will set us free. The earliest and I became aware that it disciples that came to Jesus could apply. I know I’ve gotten came to hear the truth. They a tad older and the ole hearing didn’t want secondhand isn’t what it used to be, so it is information, but desired a easy to misunderstand. firsthand knowledge of God’s My sweet wife has love. That is still a valid reason suggested I might want to follow Jesus today. When consider hearing aids, but I’m those hard days come with all not that old and don’t want to their hustle and bustle and our start using those devices. So emotions get a bit frayed, we I just pretended I didn’t hear should listen carefully to the her. I’m pretty good at using words, expressions in voices this strategy. She once told her and truth of what is being said, friend she could tell me any not what we think is being said. secret she had and it would be Now that I have that out of safe. The reason it would be the way, I think I’ll make my safe is because I never listen to way to the old kitchen and her in the first place. At least I see if there is any turkey left. think that is what she told her A little snack before bed will friend. I only caught a part of be just the ticket. I feel better the conversation because the about this whole thing and rest sounded a little muffled. can’t imagine why I thought I’m sure she was whispering someone might think I was to her friend. Then I thought oversized and stuffed … burp! about it a while and started wondering, what kind of Dr. Gerald Hallmark is a secrets does she have? retired minister who lives in There are so many Alexander City. His column misunderstandings in our lives appears here each Friday in over things as innocent as this The Outlook.
The subscription rate is $136.00 per year in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and $177.99 outside the area. Periodicals paid at Alexander City, AL. Newspapers are available at 100 news racks in our area at 75 cents for The Outlook and 50 cents for The Record. We would love to deliver a paper to your door. Call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281, Ext. 204 or email david.kendrick@ alexcityoutlook.com.
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Challenge
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
The new Alexander City Postmaster Rachel Norris poses for a photograph in the carrier sorting area.
Postmaster served there for two years.” Post offices have three levels of employees, craft employees comprising of the carriers and clerks, supervisor and finally postmaster. Norris said the transition has been easy. “They (employees) are used to me,” she said. “We have already been working together. It is not like someone from somewhere else was coming in.” Postal Supervisor Samantha Simmons and Norris say the Postal Service is growing in Alexander City. “Our parcel service has increased,” Norris said. “And we have seen more mail delivery in Alexander City. The city is definitely growing.” “We have added a new route,” Simmons said. The changes Norris has seen are thanks to technology. “The parcel delivery increase is likely due to vendors like Amazon and internet sales,” Norris said. “We have also seen scanners helping to keep an eye on the status of packages.” The Alexander City Post Office oversees the post office in Kellyton and has 11 rural routes, seven city routes and one highway contract route. One of those city routes was Norris’ at one time. “I enjoyed my route along 280,” Norris said. “I like getting to know the customers in the businesses and the residents along my route on 280 and in the Spring Hill area.”
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One of the rural routes stretches beyond Our Town towards the lake. “The Ridge and Willow Point, it is 17 miles before she even gets to the first box on that route,” Summons said. “That is the biggest route.” “There is no way to avoid it,” Norris said. “Someone has to go. There is so much volume and despite being a vacation area, the volume keeps growing.” In town the post office does have cycles of volume. “Monday’s are kind of heavy,” Norris said. “Tuesday’s usually are a little slow.” Norris explained that she would not be able to do this job with the support of her family, her husband Chris and two children Jacob and Ryleigh. “I get here between 6 and 6:30 every morning,” Norris said. “I often don’t leave until 7 or so in the evening. It is long hours.” Norris is proud of the efforts of the post office and its employees serving the community. It is evident in that in a recent letter carrier food drive over 7,000 pounds of food were collected for area residents in need. Norris hopes the role of the Postal Service remains viable and good in her tenure as postmaster and she has a plan for it. “I want to see the image of the Postal Service remain strong,” Norris said. “I just want to make sure we excel in customer service and our carriers return safe each day to go home to their families.”
site.” The advantage to the site is many parks and organizers have listed events for people to take part in, including other state parks. “It is a great way to find things to do at other parks,” Hadley said. According to the 100 Alabama Miles Challenge website, it is a statewide program designed to inspire all Alabamians to kickstart an active, healthy lifestyle while exploring our beautiful state and connecting with fellow participants. The challenge is for all Alabamians to walk, run, hike, bike, swim, paddle, ride or roll 100 miles each year and to do so by visiting Alabama’s many wonderful parks, nature preserves, and rivers. “It sounds like an impossible goal to many people,” the site says “But if you get in just two miles each week, it’s very doable.” The website is the hub for information and participation. You can use it to plan your next trip, find events, and track your miles, activity and the places
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you visit. You can also create teams and compete with friends, family and co-workers who are taking the challenge. As you log your miles and visit Alabama’s amazing outdoor destinations, you will collect electronic badges along the way commemorating your accomplishments and your journey. Hadley said that the hikes were already planned before the program launched but the park was happy to be part of it. In fact, Hadley is hoping to add more events to the calendar. “We are looking at a 5K in October,” Hadley said. “We are also looking at a full moon hike in August if there is interest.” One highlight at Wind Creek State Park is a scheduled hike for National Trails Day June 2 and part of the 100 Alabama Miles Challenge. “It is part of a national effort,” Hadley said. “There are lots of organized hikes that day across the nation to get people out.” The scheduled hikes at Wind Creek are subject to weather and non-campers will need to pay the park entrance fee.
SCHEDULED HIKES AT WIND CREEK STATE PARK THIS SUMMER • May 29 - Full Moon Night Hike - 8 p.m. - Campfire Trail - 1.8 miles - Meet at Pavilion No. 3 in North Picnic • June 2 - National Trails Day Hike - 9 a.m. - Campfire Trail 1.8 miles - Meet at trail head in North Picnic • June 6 - Campfire Trail Hike – 9 a.m. - 1.8 miles - Meet at trail head in North Picnic • June 13 - Reunion Trail Hike (South) – 9 a.m. - 1.8 miles Meet at trail head near marina parking lot • June 20 - Campfire Trail Hike – 9 a.m. - 1.8 miles - Meet at trail head in North Picnic • June 23 - Birding Paddle on Elkhatchee Creek - 7:30 a.m. approximately 4 miles /3-4 hours - Meet at Russell Lands put in
on 63 (old Double Bridges area) • June 27 - Campfire Trail Hike – 9 a.m. - 1.8 miles - Meet at trail head in North Picnic • June 28 - Full Moon Night Hike - 8 p.m. - Campfire Trail 1.8 miles - Meet at Pavilion No. 3 in North Picnic • July 11 - Reunion Trail Hike (South) – 9 a.m. - 1.8 miles Meet at trail head near marina parking lot • July 18 - Campfire Trail Hike – 9 a.m. - 1.8 miles - Meet at trail head in North Picnic • July 25 - Campfire Trail Hike – 9 a.m. - 1.8 miles - Meet at trail head in North Picnic • July 27 - Full Moon Night Hike - 8 p.m - Campfire Trail - 1.8 miles - Meet at Pavilion No. 3 in North Picnic
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CommunityCalendar Need Insurance? Call me.
Today is May 18, 2018 Today’s Events
PRODUCTION: The Mt. Vernon
Friday, May 18, 2018
The Outlook
Theatre in Tallassee is hosting “The Hoppers” at 7 p.m. Tickets are $18 and are available at mtvernontheatre.net
Today’s Birthdays
Shelia Young, Jeremy Livingston, Ricky Dale Fuller, Lynn Hayes, Linda Cannon and Charles Wayne
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Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/. Willard are celebrating their birthdays today.
Today’s Anniversaries
Bobbie Lou and James Buzbee, Holly and David Hawkins and Kathryn and Brian Jones are celebrating their anniversaries today.
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SEE ME FOR INSURANCE Submitted / The Outlook
Bama Club awards scholarships to local seniors The Lake Martin Bama Club held a celebration luncheon for senior graduates planning to attend the University of Alabama. This outstanding group of young men and women have excelled in their studies and were awarded with scholarship money from the Lake Martin Bama Club. The event was held at the Trinity campus of First Methodist Church. Students and their families enjoyed a meal provided by Dedie and Bill Hendrix. Lake Martin Bama Club President Nancy Hodges and Scholarship Committee Leader Buddy King presented the awards. Other board members attending were Kay Thomas, John Hodges, Carol Lee, Dedie Hendrix and Scott Davis. Scholarship recipients were, pictured, back row, from left, Skylar Taunton, Cameron Tolbert, Spencer Morris, Ezra Robinson, Anderson Radney, Benjamin Hendrix and Dylan Adamson; front row, from left, Adeline Treadwell, Ashaunti Price and Scottlyn Carr.
Saturday, May 19
The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow
The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for 2nd, 3rd, and Weekend Shifts for Direct Care. Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Shatia Carr (334) 252-0025, Ext. 101 Email: Scarr@learning-tree.org
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PERFORMANCE: The Mt. Vernon Theatre in Tallassee is hosting the Central Alabama Youth Wind Symphony at 7 p.m. The Central Alabama Youth Wind Symphony is a youth organization for youths by youths. Directed by Tyler Rodgers, CAYWS has a lot to offer the community, especially in the form of music. The project was started in November as a means to bring the community and others together through music and allow area youth to express themselves freely and openly. CAYWS believes in a warm, friendly environment for all teenagers looking to continue their exploration in the field of music. Tickets to the show are $5 and are available at mtvernontheatre.net. ARMED FORCES DAY PICNIC: The Bill Nichols Chapter of the Disabled American Veterans will be holding a Picnic in the Park from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. in Strand Park to celebrate Armed Forces Day. Veteran service organizations like the DAV and American Legion will be on hand to pass out information, and the Alabama National Guard will also have a display set up. There will be a military vehicle show, kids activities and food vendors set up in the park as well. The event is open to the public and there is no cost to attend. SINGING: The Kellyton Revival Center is hosting “Singing with The Exhorters” at 5 p.m. Refreshments will be provided afterwards and a love offering will be taken. TRADE DAY: The Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends are hosting the monthly trade day in Millerville on Highway 9 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Refreshments will be available. MUSIC FESTIVAL: The Weogufka Center for the Arts is hosting the Muddy Water Music Festival and Fish Fry Saturday, May 19 from 9 a.m. until. Admission is $5 a person and free for children 12 and under. Scheduled to perform are Ryan Shurette, Josh Baxley, Matt Hardy, Judy Stocks, Brian Voss, Back Street, Cara Adams, Matt Stevens, Elvis Jake Stevens, Anna Brooke Parrett, Drake Jennings, Jackie Rayfield, Chris Turney, Amber Fountain, Brackie Gaither, Austin Culberson, Emily Baxley, Dazed and Confused, Frank Daugherty, Sybil Kirkpartrick and The Renfroe Mountain Medicine Show. Catfish plates are $12 for adults and $6 for children.
Sunday, May 20
BACCALAUREATE SERVICE: The Benjamin Russell Baccalaureate Service is at 7 p.m. at the BRHS auditorium. CHURCH HOMECOMING: Holly Springs Baptist Church in Coosa County is hosting homecoming at 11 a.m. Bro. Donnie Blackmon will be preaching. Everyone is welcome to eat after the service, just bring a chair and some food to share. All former members and family of those buried in the church cemetery are welcome. SINGING: A singing will be held at the Midway Historical School from noon to 2 p.m. at East Mill Drive in Hollins. SOLIDARITY DAY: New Adka Missionary Baptist Church is hosting Solidarity Day at 11 a.m. The theme is “How to talk about Relationship Problems.” Edward Milner is pastor. COOKING CLASS: The Beacon of Joy Mission is presenting a healthy cooking class from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at 369 Scott Road.
There will be food tasting and recipes will be provided. You must have an invitation to attend to know how much food to prepare. Please contact Renee Jackson at 256-749-5943. CHURCH HOMECOMING: Darien Church on Highway 22 between Daviston and Wadley at Cotney’s old store is hosting homecoming starting at 10:30 a.m. Elder Jonathan Blakeley of Wetumpka will be the guest minister. A covered dish lunch will follow the morning service. All friends and descendants of former members are cordially invited to attend this service. CHURCH HOMECOMING: Bethel Baptist Church South in Clay County is holding homecoming services with the program beginning at 10 a.m. and lunch at noon. PASTOR APPRECIATION: Haven Memorial United Methodist Church is holding a pastor appreciation service Sunday, May 20 for Pastor Percy Nolan, Jr beginning at 2:30 p.m.at Haven Memorial United Methodist Church, 354 Christian Street, Alexander City, AL. The guest speaker for the event will be Rev. Eddie Hunter of Miracle Baptist Church. Everyone is invited to attend.
Monday, May 21
SPEECH AND HEARING SCREENING: Auburn University NSSLHA & SAA are proud to offer a free speech, language and hearing screening that will access the following for children and adults: articulation (pronouncing sounds), receptive language (understanding concepts and spoken language), expressive language (ability to verbally express self), cognition (attention, memory, problem solving), voice quality, fluency and hearing. The screening will be from 1 to 4 p.m. at 1199 Haley Center in Auburn. For further information, please call 334-844-9600. COOKING CLASS: The Beacon of Joy Mission is presenting a vegetarian cooking class from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at 369 Scott Road. There will be food tasting and recipes. You must have an invitation to attend so enough food can be prepared. Please contact Renee Jackson at 256-749-5943. MEETING: The Lake Martin Area Industrial Development Authority will hold a called meeting at 1 p.m. at the offices of Charter HR in Kellyton, AL.
May 21-22
JEWELRY SALE: The Russell Medical Auxiliary will have its $5 Masquerade Jewelry Sale May 21 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and May 22 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Proceeds go toward student scholarships.
May 21 - May 22
PIANO RECITAL: Sandra Stark’s Piano Studio is holding a piano recital May 21 and 22 at 7 p.m. at Faith Temple.
Tuesday, May 22
OPEN HOUSE: The Achievement Center – Easter Seals is holding an “Open House” Tuesday, May 22 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. There will be tours of the newly renovated facility. Refreshments will be served and the public is invited.
Wednesday, May 23
SENIORX: Deborah Jones will be at the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to help seniors determine if they are eligible for assistance with diabetic supplies, liquid supplements and medica-
tions. For more information contact Jones at 1-800-361-1636.
Saturday, May 26
CONCERT: The Mt. Vernon Theatre in Tallassee is hosting Bama Breeze in concert, Jimmy Buffet style with a food truck.
Sunday, May 27
CELEBRATION TRIBUTE: A celebration tribute in memory of Mr. Thomas “Toot Toot” Marbury will be held at 6 p.m. in Strand Park in downtown Alexander City. MISSION DAY PROGRAM: Friendship Missionary Baptist Church will host its Mission Day Program at 2 p.m. The guest speaker will be Rev. Lorenzo Caldwell, pastor of Almighty God Baptist Church in Goodwater. Rev. Roosevelt Gregory is pastor. Everyone is invited to attend. PASTOR APPRECIATION: Kellyton Chapel United Methodist Church in Kellyton is hosting the 9th Pastoral Appreciation service honoring Pastor and Sister Michael Strong Sunday, May 27 at 2:30 p.m. The guest minister will be Rev. Clarence Woodard, pastor of Rushing Spring Baptist Church in Lincoln.
Tuesday, May 29
USHERS MEETING: The Early Rose District Usher’s meeting will be at 5 p.m. at the Early Rose District Center.
Friday, June 1
RUMMAGE SALE: The First Presbyterian Church is hosting a rummage sale to clear out the youth house at 371 Jefferson Street from 2 to 6 p.m. There will be furniture, appliances, crafts, Bible study kits and more. CAMP HIDDEN LAKE: Applications for the Salvation Army’s Camp Hidden Lake from June 18-23 are due by June 1. The camp is free to those who qualify. Register online at campscui.active. com/orgs/CampHiddenLake. CHURCH SINGING: Family Worship Center is hosting a Friday Night Singing with Eternal Vision June 1 at 7 p.m. The church is located at 1676 Sewell Street in Alexander City. Everyone is welcome.
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
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Saturday, June 2
LEAVE NO TRACE: Wind Creek State Park is hosting National Trails Day Leave No Trace in the Park at 9 a.m. The hiking event will educate hikers on how to “leave no trace” when hiking. This hike is part of the 100 Alabama Mile Challenge. Meet at the Campfire Trail Head in the North Picnic area. PASTORAL ANNIVERSARY: New Adka Missionary Baptist Church in Dadeville is celebrating the pastoral anniversary of Rev. Edward Milner and and First Lady Emily Milner June 2 at 5 p.m. in the New Adka Education Building at 21 North Thornton Road in Dadeville. BOOK SIGNING: Lakesha Denise will have a book signing for her new book “Powerful Women of Faith” Saturday, June 2 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m at the Lake Martin Innovation Center.
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Sunday, June 3
CHURCH ANNIVERSARY: Friendship Missionary Baptist Church will hold its 133rd church anniversary at 3 p.m. The guest speaker will be Rev. Gordon McCord, pastor of Second Marrietta Missionary Baptist Church in Castleberry. Rev. Roosevelt Gregory is pastor. Everyone is invited to attend.
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Junior Leadership Lake Martin class graduates STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
Graduation for the 2017-18 Junior Leadership Lake Martin class was held on Tuesday as Loring and Debbie White hosted the 24 students and their parents providing dinner in a beautiful venue at White Acres Farms. The students are high school juniors from Benjamin Russell, Dadeville, Horseshoe Bend and Reeltown. Loring White delivered the address to the students providing sound philosophies for successful living and developing leadership skills as they enter adulthood. White opened the floor to questions from the audience where he gave insightful answers into his successes in business and in life. This year’s class participated in Team Building Day, Criminal Justice Day, Healthcare Day, Economic Development Day, Diversity Day, City/County Day, State Government Day as well as conducting a successful toy drive for the Salvation Army and working at Loaves and Fishes in Dadeville.
Members of the graduating class are:
Submitted / The Outlook
Junior Leadership Lake Martin graduates, were: from Benjamin Russell High School, top left, Jessica Culver, Alexis Deloney, Blair Dunn, Ryan Green, John Hayden Johnson, Ethan McDaniel, Nick McGhee, Asia McWaters, Paris Morgan and Kyla Stowes; Horseshoe Bend High School, top right, Savannah Brazzell, Colby Cheaney, Grace Denham and Maggie Wood; Dadeville High School, middle left, Marley Davis, Zander McClendon, Jacob Outlaw, Zach Rickman and Jayla Tolbert; and Reeltown High School, middle right, Anna Cochran, Savannah Hornsby, Marlee Knox, Peyton Ledbetter and Morgan McGuire. Above, six students from the 2016-17 Junior Leadership Lake Martin class were awarded with the Loring and Debbie White/Junior Leadership Scholarship in the amount of $1,000. Winners were, from Reeltown, Katelyn Cotton; Dadeville, Amaya Hatcher; Horseshoe Bend, Cade Worthy and Matt Wilson, and Benjamin Russell, Abby Martin and Jackson Knight.
Benjamin Russell: Jessica Culver, Alexis Deloney, Blair Dunn, Ryan Green, John Hayden Johnson, Ethan McDaniel, Nick McGhee, Asia McWaters, Paris Morgan and Kyla Stowes; Dadeville: Marley Davis, Zander McClendon, Jacob Outlaw, Zach Rickman and Jayla Tolbert; Horseshoe Bend: Savannah Brazzell, Colby Cheaney, Grace Denham and Maggie Wood; Reeltown: Anna Cochran, Savannah Hornsby, Marlee Knox, Peyton Ledbetter and Morgan McGuire. Each graduate was presented with a certificate and leather portfolio from Junior Leadership Lake Martin and a gift bag with a White Acres cap and a leadership book from White Acres Farms. In 2016, the Whites created and endowed the Loring and Debbie White/Junior Leadership Lake Martin Scholarship. A scholarship of $1,000 was presented to six students from the 2016-17 Junior Leadership Lake Martin Class. These scholarships were awarded to one student from each school and two “at-large” recipients who had demonstrated leadership during their senior year. The scholarship winners were, from Reeltown, Katelyn Cotton; Dadeville, Amaya Hatcher; Horseshoe Bend, Cade Worthy and Matt Wilson, and Benjamin Russell, Abby Martin and Jackson Knight. The mission of Junior Leadership Lake Martin is to expose young people to what it takes to have a successful community. If you wish to support Junior Leadership Lake Martin through service or financial support contact board president Mark Knight by email at jrllmmail@gmail.com or by phone at 256 749-1115.
Area’s top seniors honored Submitted / The Outlook
USAmeriBank honored the Top Ten Seniors of Benjamin Russell High School with a luncheon at the Main Office on May 4, 2018. The students attending were Spencer Morris, Aubrey Culver, Shelby Bloodworth, Taylor Latham, Payton Reynolds, Kristina Skinner , Ashaunti Price, Ivey Riddle, Jessica Messer and Brooks Parker. Also attending from BRHS Superintendent Dr. Darrell Cooper, Senior Sponsors Jennifer Clanton, Amanda Fennel and Senior Counselor Richard Burton. Representing USAmeriBank were Mark Spencer, Teresa Grier, Kevin Speaks and Cameron Dodwell. Also present from Valley National Bank were Adam Ciantar, Kim Trefsger-LaMin and Joanna Brown.
Helping
continued from page 1
Mitch Sneed / The Outlook
Leigh Russell, center, watches her children at Jim Pearson Elementary School’s honors day Wednesday. Her mom Donna Russell, left, said the help and kindness shown by the first responders went over and above the call of duty.
said. “Some people came together and took her to Walmart in 2015 to do some Christmas shopping. It’s just so hard to transport her and it’s really tough on her as well.” Leigh’s children had honors day at Jim Pearson on Wednesday and that got her mother scrambling. “They came home so excited about it and you could just tell she wanted to go, but knew she couldn’t,” Donna said. “So I called Reese McAlister just to ask if he could think of any options. That’s when he told me to let him work on it and he would let me know.” McAlister said he knew they had to find a way. “Leigh’s had a rough time and they don’t ask for much,” McAlister said. “But we knew we had to do something so she could be there to see her kids get their honors.” McAlister arranged for Lt. Tommy Hunter and Tim Jones to transport Leigh to
the school. Leigh is unable to get into or sit in a wheelchair for a long period of time so they were able to roll her in on a gurney. They wheeled her into the gym, got her set up in a place where she could see, stayed with her until the ceremony was over and she had seen Braxton and Kyleigh walk across the stage. They then took her home and got her all settled in there. The smile on Leigh’s face told the whole story about how much the kindness of the first-responders meant. I hadn’t told her anything about it, because I didn’t want her to get anxious or in case they couldn’t do it,” Russell said. “If they had an emergency, that would have taken precedence. But when she saw them come in to get her she was so happy it just about made her cry. She didn’t stop smiling all day. That just meant the world to her, the kids and to me. I can’t thank them all enough.”
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Lake Martin Home Improvement Directory 6 21 5 19
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Friday, May 18, 2018
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Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Mavis Peters, center, reacts to being named Mrs. Brown’s Nursing Home Thursday.
GETTING THE CROWN
Brown’s Nursing Home residents have lots of laughs at beauty pageant By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
M Jewell Fomby
Linda Campbell
Eddie Moncrief
Vesper McFann
Katie Scroggins
Gustine Goggans
Geneva Morris
Gloria Slaughter
avis Peters was crowned Mrs. Brown’s Nursing Home as the facility held a beauty pageant to celebrate National Nursing Home week. Peters was watched by family Thursday afternoon as she responded to the question “What is the most beautiful thing you have ever seen?” by master of ceremonies Ronnie Betts. “My husband,” Peters responded. Peters later said she meant to say Betts’ name but didn’t. Betts knocked her crown off while congratulating the winner and getting the non-public change of her answer. Peters’ response was not the only answer to draw laughs from residents and family in attendance. “I like to dance,” 95 year-old Jewell Fomby said. Linda Campbell answered the question “What is the most beautiful thing you have ever seen?” “God,” she responded. Eddie Moncrief got the question “What is your favorite thing?” “Reading the Bible, loving my Lord and my grandbabies,” Moncrief responded. Vesper McFann responded to her favorite hobby. “I like being with my children,” McFann said. Katie Scroggins got the question “What is the most fun thing in your life?” “My kids,” Scroggins said with a smile. Geneva Morris got the most laughs with her response to what she loves most in her life. “Bingo,” Morris said quickly while raising her hand as if she were playing the game. The judges took a liking to Gloria Slaughter who said her favorite thing to do was “Eating, especially chicken and fish.” Rev. Wayne Cowhick, Buffy Colvin and Scott Hardy judged the contest and rewarded Slaughter with flowers and a snack of Cheetos. Ruth Bigelow could not decide how to respond to what she loves best in life. “I don’t know,” Bigelow said. “It’s all good.” Ethel Smith was the same as Bigelow. “Everything,” Smith said. Peggy Wesson responded to her what her favorite hobby is. “I like to talk,” Wesson said. No one was a loser in the pageant. All went home winners. Gustine Goggans was crowned Ms. Spring. Campbell was awarded Ms. Summer. Bigelow was named Ms. Fall. Scroggins was crowned Mrs. Winter. Moncrief was given the title Best Smile. Best Dressed was awarded to McFann. Best interview was given to Morris. Smith was first runner up and Wesson was second runner up.
Ronnie Betts, above right, jokes around with Peters after she was crowned Mrs. Brown’s Nursing Home and Betts knocked her crown off trying to get a kiss from the winner.
Mavis Peters
Ruth Bigelow
Ethel Smith
Peggy Wesson
Sports
LIZI ARBOGAST SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228 lizi.arbogast@alexcityoutlook.com
Page 12
Friday, May 18, 2018
Outlook
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The
HISTORICAL JOURNEY
Community sends Reeltown to first state championships By LIZI ARBOGAST Sports Editor
Reeltown’s energy was palpable Thursday afternoon as the softball team headed onto the bus for its trip to the AHSAA Class 2A State Championships, which begin today at Lagoon Park in Montgomery. The streets around Reeltown High School were lined with family, friends and fans of the Rebels, as they sent the Rebels off in style. “I feel like every time we turn a corner, someone is congratulating us,” Reeltown pitcher Ayriana Stoneback said. The excitement is welldeserved, as this is the first trip to state in the history of the Rebel softball program. “Everybody is really supportive because it’s the first time,” Reeltown leadoff batter Morgan McGuire said. “It’s very exciting to go. Nobody’s ever done this before, so we’re excited to do it. There’s not really too many nerves; we’re just ready to go.” But the Rebels aren’t ready to settle for just being at state; they’re looking to win it. It’s not going to be an easy feat, though. Reeltown begins today at J.U. Blacksher at 10:45 a.m., and if it wins, it’ll take on the winner of Mars Hill Bible and Thorsby at 4 p.m. — or face the loser of that matchup in the losers bracket at 2:15 p.m. Even if the Rebels do have a hiccup along the way, there’s plenty of chances to battle back in the double elimination tournament. “We just need to stay up and not get down on ourselves,” Rebel catcher Katlyn Jaye said. “Even if you’re losing, if you stay up, you can always come back. We were losing 4-2 last week (at regionals) and came back to 11-4.” None of the eight teams in
Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook
Reeltown’s softball team had a community sendoff Thursday afternoon as the Rebels departed for the Class 2A state championship, which begins today.
the Class 2A bracket have won a state championship before, so the title is up for grabs. “We’re all pretty good at this point,” Reeltown coach Kelli Hilyer said. “I always say it’s a team thing, so we just need everybody to do what they’ve been doing all season. If somebody makes an error or doesn’t get a good hit, somebody else will be there to pick them up.” Reeltown boasts a 35-121 record heading into state and was ranked No. 4 in the final Alabama Sports Writers Association poll. Mars Hill was ranked No. 1, Lamar County finished in third and G.W. Long was fifth. Mars Hill and Long
Wildcats take third at state golf tourney STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
Benjamin Russell’s golf team had a fine finish at the AHSAA Class 6A Golf Championships earlier this week, placing third at the Robert Trent Jones golf course in Muscle Shoals. The Wildcats had a twoday finish of 615, which was behind only Muscle Shoals and Homewood, who turned in a 600 and 606, respectively. BRHS earned its third-place finish in comeback fashion, as it was sitting in fourth after the first day. Leading the way for Benjamin Russell was Dylan Moncus, who carded a 72. Sawyer Scott and Matthew Cush followed closely behind with a 74 and 76, respectively. Sawyer Parks turned in an 80 and Kylee Reeder shot 85 to round out the top five. “I am very proud of what this team has accomplished this year,” BRHS coach Wes Tate said. “Not only the guys that participated (at state), but the guys that didn’t travel that pushed these guys all year.”
LakeWinds to host junior league
LakeWinds Golf Club will host a summer junior league in June and July. The league will include four days of fundamental work and four days of playing golf. It is open to anyone ages 7 through 12.
On Tuesdays from June 5 to June 26, participants will work on their putts, chips and swings from 4 to 5 p.m. Play days will be Sundays from June 10 through July 9 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. The cost is $100 and also includes a summer membership. Prizes will be awarded each day. For more information or to register, contact Jim Gunnells at 256-825-9860 or jimgunnells@yahoo.com.
may be the teams to beat, and although Reeltown struggled with G.W. Long at regionals, the Rebels know what it’ll take to beat it. “We need to be more patient at the plate,” Hilyer said. “When the girls stepped in the box against Long at regionals, they were ready to jump on anything that was thrown, so we need to just be patient.” Jaye echoed those sentiments. “We gotta lay off the rise ball because that’s what got us most of the time,” she said. “She gave good pitches, we just weren’t swinging at the right ones.” Reeltown definitely has the
offense to put up some big numbers. The Rebels boast a team batting average of .421 and have five players with more than 100 plate appearances who are batting over .300, including McGuire (.446), Kayli Hornsby (.433), Jaye (.376), Makenzie Baker (.362) and Stoneback (.326). Defensively, the Rebels have allowed 64 errors in 844 tries for a fielding percentage of .924, and as most good softball teams have, Reeltown has a stellar pitcher in Stoneback. In 235 2/3 innings of work, Stoneback has an ERA of 1.455 with a staggering 306 strikeouts. She’s walked 67 but allowed only 49 earned runs.
“I think she’s gonna do great,” Jaye said. “Me and her have been together since we were 9, so we pump each other up. I like catching her.” The other big thing working in Reeltown’s favor is its sheer number of games played. The Rebels have played in several tournaments this season, so they’re used to the grind this weekend is going to require. “I planned it that way this year,” Hilyer said. “I told them this year we were going to concentrate on being a tournament team, so in the end, we’ll actually be able to do well and stay consistent.” The Class 2A championship game is set for 2 p.m. Saturday.
AHSAA CLASS 2A SOFTBALL SCHEDULE All games played at Lagoon Park in Montgomery Friday’s games Game 1: Reeltown vs. J.U. Blacksher, 10:45 a.m. Game 2: Mars Bible vs. Thorsby, 10:45 a.m. Game 3: G.W. Long vs. Leroy, 12:30 p.m. Game 4: Sand Rock vs. Lamar County, 12:30 p.m.
Game 5: Game 1 loser vs. Game 2 loser, 2:15 p.m. Game 6: Game 3 loser vs. Game 4 loser, 4 p.m. Game 7: Game 1 winner vs. Game 2 winner, 4 p.m. Game 8: Game 3 winner vs. Game 4 winner, 5:45 p.m. Game 9: Game 6 winner vs. Game 7 loser, 7:30 p.m. Game 10: Game 5 winner vs. Game 8 loser, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday’s games Game 11: Game 7 winner vs. Game 8 winner, 9 a.m. Game 12: Game 10 winner vs. Game 9 winner, 9 a.m. Game 13: Game 12 winner vs. Game 11 loser, 11 a.m. Game 14: Championship, Game 11 winner vs. Game 13 winner, 2 p.m. Game 15: If necessary, Game 11 winner vs. Game 13 winner, 3:45 p.m.
SOFTBALL CACC falters on Day 1 of nationals
Central Alabama Community College’s softball team was upended up No. 2-ranked Chipola (Florida) on the first day of the NJCAA National Tournament on Wednesday. The Trojans managed only two hits and fell to the Indians, 15-0 in five innings. From the get go, the Indians looked like the better team, putting up two runs in the first, seven in the second and four in the third. Central Alabama had its best chance in the top of the third when Madison Huston was hit by a pitch to lead off and Sierra Easterwood moved her to scoring position with a single. But the Trojans couldn’t capitalize after that. Shatima Smith also had a hit for CACC.
Lizi Arbogast / The Outlook
Quinterrian Jones signs with GCPSA Earlier this week, former Benjamin Russell player Quinterrian Jones, seated second from right, signed to play football with Gulf Coast Prep Sports Academy in Mount Vernon. It is a prep school that, unlike JUCOs, allows players to try to advance their careers without sacrificing a year of eligibility. “Basically they just try to move you to a four-year college, and they help you go along with your journey,” Jones said. “I really want to go play for a (Division I) school and it’s just going to take hard work.” At his signing, Jones was joined by, front row, from left, his sister Breunika Benton, his mother Stephanie Hicks, his uncle Delacey Johnson, who was representing Jones’ father, Terry, who passed away; back row, coach Demetrius Fleetion, his aunts Brenda Norris and Priscilla Johnson and Gulf Coast Prep Sports Academy coach Shawn Sellers.