Opelika Observer 01-22-2020

pelika Observer O

Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2020

Vol. 12, No. 16

Opelika, Alabama Staff Sgt. Timothy Lowery returned from 11-month deployment and surprised two of his children at school. Turn to A2 for more photos of the joyous homecoming.

“By local people, for local people.”

Community marches in honor of MLK Jr.

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Dream Day Foundation holds 21st annual MLK celebration at OPAC

By Will Fairless and Morgan Bryce Opelika Observer

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

On Monday at Opelika High School, The Dream Day Foundation presented their 21st annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

with the theme “Nonviolence is Love.”

It included performances by the Hallelujah Dream Choir interspersed with quotes and lessons from King that emphasized the See MLK, page A3

City of Opelika officials hold Friends of the Cooper Library hosting press conference on Monday to mini-golf fundraiser on Jan. 31, Feb. 1 announce creation of new

By Morgan Bryce innovation and technology park Editor Special to the Opelika Observer The city of Opelika, Opelika Economic Development Department and the Opelika Industrial Development Authority are excited to announce the creation of the Opelika Innovation and Technology Park (OITP). The new park is located in an opportunity zone (OZ) at the gateway corridor to Opelika along U.S. Highway 280 West between Veterans and Waverly parkways.

Opportunity Zones are an important component for industries wishing to move to an area. OZ

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

sites offer industries cheaper build-to-suit leasing, stronger federal, state and local incentives, access to growth capital and unique tax planning opportunities.

In Alabama, Gov. Kay Ivey has designated 158 Opportunity Zones across the state.

“Opelika has been inSee Opportunity, page A3

Index

OPINION.....................................A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 RELIGION..............................A13 CALENDAR..................................A14

The weekend of Jan. 31 will see Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library transformed into an 18-hole mini-golf course for the “Caddy Stacks: A Mini Golf Fundraiser.”

Proceeds will benefit the library’s nonprofit branch Friends of the Cooper Library. Each ticket purchased is tax deductible.

Library Director Rosanna McGinnis said this is the first time the venue has had an event like this and is excited to showcase the facility to the public.

“The money raised is used for many

COMICS.....................................A16 SPORTS..................................B1 POLITICS...................................B7 PUBLIC NOTICES..........................B13

Photo by Michelle Key/Opelika Observer

small-scale things like refreshments at library

programs, performers See Golf, page A3

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A2 Jan. 22, 2020

pelika O Observer

Two Opelika children get surprised at school by dad upon his return home after 11-month deployment

Photos submitted to the Opelika Observer Staff Sgt. Timothy Lowery arrived back home Friday following an 11-month deployment.

Upon his arrival in Opelika Lowery surprised his two youngest children at their school. Lowery’s two oldest children were out-of-town for a winter youth event. They were surprised by their dad on Monday upon their arrival home.

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Lee County Strong is a magazine being published by the Opelika Observer. This special publication is dedicated to honoring the victims and survivors of the March 3, 2019 tornadoes that claimed 23 lives.

We are taking pre-orders now and anticipate a March 1, 2020 release date. To order your copy, complete the order form below and send it to the Observer at 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801.

Online ordering is also available on the Observerʼs website, www.opelikaobserver.com.

Proceeds from this publication will be used to help the recovery efforts in Beauregard and Smiths Station.

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Return to: Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th St. / Opelika, AL 36801 Please do not send cash through the mail.

pelika Observer

Publisher: Michelle Key Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Doug Horn and Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Sports Writers: Rick Lanier and Michelle@opelikaobserver.com D. Mark Mitchell

O

w w w. o p e l i k a o b s e r v e r . c o m 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801

CORRECTIONS The Opelika Observer will correct any errors, omissions or inaccuracies deemed to be substantive. Corrections may be requested by contacting the Editor at (334) 749-8003.

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A3 Jan. 22, 2020

Opelika Observer welcomes Auburn University interns Will Fairless

By Sara Wilson For the Opelika Observer Will Fairless, one of two interns working at the Opelika Observer this spring semester, is a senior majoring in journalism at Auburn University. After graduating in May, he plans to attend law school or potentially pursue a career in the journalism field.

“I have taken the LSAT and applied to some law schools. If that doesn’t work out, my internship with the Opelika Observer will provide me with some experience to pursue a career in

Golf, from A1 for children’s programs and awards at summer reading programs, but fundraising efforts to support the upcoming construction project at the library are also gearing up,” McGinnis said. “I am most excited that the golf course will

Opportunity, from A1 credibly proactive about harnessing the power of its Opportunity Zone.

Its vision for building a place where innovation and technology can co-exist matches perfectly with the spirit of the Opportunity Zone incentive, which facilitates investment in both buildings and the companies that occupy them,” said Alexander Flachsbart, Found and CEO of Opportunity Alabama.

The new park sits on 105 total acres and is ideally located in Opelika with easy access to East Alabama Medical Center, Tiger Town, historic wowntown Opelika, Southern Union State Community College and Auburn University.

Fairless journalism,” Fairless said.

He is originally from St. Charles, Missouri, right outside of St. Louis, making him a big Cardinals fan. In his free time, he likes to play golf and basketball. Playing basketball is something he be set up throughout the library and people might be taken to floors and rooms they didn’t know existed. Many people don’t realize we actually have three floors, so I’m excited for people to explore the whole space.”

Friday will be open to adults only, with tickets costing $25 each.

Starting at 6:30 p.m., attendees will have the Utility infrastructure already exists in the new Opelika Innovation and Technology Park from partners such as: Opelika Power Services, Opelika Utilities, Spire Gas and GIG Fiber from Point Broadband.

“The OITP will be a catalyst to help generate, attract and retain companies focused on the creation of new and innovative technologies.

OITP will not only be a place for the creation of great jobs, but will be a place that will provide connectivity to drive growth in our city and throughout the region,” said Mayor Gary Fuller.

Opelika Economic Development is already working on a potential project for the OITP. For more information, contact John Sweatman, economic development project manager for the city of Opelika, at 334705-5115.

Sara Wilson

has in common with his younger brother, age 19, who plays college basketball.

When he is not playing basketball or golf, Fairless likes to read and watch movies. Two of his favorite books are “A Time to Kill” and “Atlas Shrugged.”

His favorite movie of all-time is “A Few Good Men.” Another way that Fairless enjoys spending his time is watching his favorite television show, the American version of “The Office.” He also enjoys catching up with his friends from back home through playing video games. opportunity to enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and “mocktails” during their time on the course.

Included in the cost of each ticket is entry into an after-party from 8 to 11 p.m. at Red Clay Brewing Company and two beverage tickets.

Opelika’s own Dallas Dorsey will provide live entertainment that evening.

Saturday’s event will

By Will Fairless For the Opelika Observer A new student intern has joined the Opelika Observer; Sara Wilson, a junior at Auburn University from Grove Hill, Alabama, will be working as an intern with the paper for this spring semester.

Wilson studied political science as a freshman at Auburn but changed her major to journalism with a minor in business. Along with this internship and taking three classes at Auburn, she is currently studying for the LSAT. “If I go to law school, I want to study media law, so with an unbe catered to families.

Costing $5 per person, they will be able to enjoy a full day of minigolf within the library from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased via eventbrite. com.

For more information, call 334-705-5380 or visit the library’s Facebook page. The library is located at 200 S. 6th St.

Wilson dergraduate degree in journalism and getting to participate in this internship, it’ll give me a background to see this side of things,” Wilson said.

The only law school she has ruled out in these nascent stages is the University of Alabama’s.

She grew up an Alabama

MLK, from A1 event’s theme.

Steven Harvey, Angel Jones and Ciara Thomas of Opelika and Beauregard high schools received foundation scholarships while George Echols was posthumously recognized as the Dream Achiever Award recipient.

An Auburn native, George attended Auburn High School and Troy University where he received his bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing. A longtime Alabama Power employee, he dedicated much of his spare time volunteering in service of the community.

Rev. Clifford Jones of Greater Peace Baptist Church invited George’s wife Patricia to come and accept the award. “(George) has made

fan and planned to attend the university until her sophomore year of high school, when a visit to The Plains flipped her allegiance.

Wilson loves Disney World and the beach, so it is no surprise that one of her favorite movies is The Little Mermaid.

When in town, she enjoys attending Auburn gymnastics meets, going out with friends or perusing social media.

She has recently taken up cooking as a hobby but declines to claim any signature dish yet.

Wilson will be contributing to the Opelika Observer with a wide range of articles, and she is most interested in writing personality profiles. a tremendous impact in the Lee County community. He served in many areas of responsibility, making an impact in the lives of young people as well as adults,” Jones said. “We honor him today because he is the epitome of the things that Dr. Martin Luther King stood for and the things that he wanted everyone to be.”

Before concluding the ceremony, candles were lit in honor of individuals whose lives were lost as the result of violence, including Aniah Blanchard, Trayvon Martin and Kamille “Cupcake” McKinney. The majority of the 400 to 500 people in attendance joined in by turning on their cell phone flashlights and waving them in the air.

For more information about the foundation and its other initiatives, visit www. thedreamdayfoundation.org.

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A4 Jan. 22, 2020

Americana

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’m watching “The Andy Griffith Show.”

It’s late at night, and I am a lifelong fan of this program.

One of my earliest memories is watching this show as an infant, sitting before a console television, and I was gnawing on something.

It’s unclear what I was chewing, but I’m pretty sure it was a wooden army-man figurine.

I chewed everything at that age, even coffee tables and the legs of furniture.

And this is probably my earliest memory from toddlerhood, aside from the memory of me peeing in Miss Frankie’s yard when I was three.

I had no idea that it was wrong to pee in public back then. All I knew was that my father always stood on our back porch and announced that he was “watering the old rose bushes.” And I would join him.

Another memory I have is watching Andy Griffith as a guest on the “Tonight Show.” He was elderly, with white hair and a corduroy blazer.

He was funny. He was folksy. And I knew on that very night, sitting in front of the television, I wanted to dedicate the rest of my life to cordu-

By Sean Dietrich roy blazers. Today I own three.

Years ago, I was on my way to play a gig in South Georgia. It was the Fourth of July, a Wednesday. I stopped at a gas station to get a bag of Chili Cheese Fritos and coffee.

The newspaper machine’s headline read: “Goodbye Andy.”

I bought a paper and shook it open. His face was on the third page.

His wild hair was parted down the side, looking like an advertisement for Brylcreem. A heart attack at age 86. And I cried. I know, I’m ridiculous.

I don’t know why I’m telling you about this except that lately it’s been hard finding anything on television.

The days of lighthearted TV-watching are dead.

The tastes of the public have changed. Sex sells.

Nobody wants Floyd the Barber when they could have medieval characters with tight buttocks.

‘Thank you for your service’ is okay by me;

All my younger friends keep recommending “hip” new shows, and I keep trying to watch them. But I don’t get it.

For one thing, these shows are found on internet streaming services, which means you spend three hours browsing through thousands of shows that all fight for your attention until at long last you settle on going to bed.

Or, if you already know which show you want, you must first type the Title Of Your Show into the dreaded keyword search bar by using the keypad on your Chickletsized remote.

Modern shows are heavy on sex appeal. I guess it’s inconceivable for producers to think anyone wants entertainment that isn’t about two people getting busy.

I’m no prude; I’m as fun as the next working stiff. But when a male actor rips his shirt off four times per episode, and his girlfriend’s physical proportions are enough to make Dolly Parton look like a Girl Scout, it’s difficult to keep eating my Fritos.

Pretty soon, I start to feel self conscious about my own body. Compared See Dietrich, page A6

Meditative Notations

A

utumn hues awash with pale blues converge in the southland. Relentless winds impart winter’s chill while the last leaves still cling to near naked branches.

Seasons do not quite give up. Instead the page of the calendar turns. Remnants of one season linger long into the other. Frost crystals shine and then drip from the fence line.

Brushstrokes of Smalt Blue and Cadmium Yellow are broken by Sepia shadows. My morning meditations begin at dawn, first light.

Turning northward at the four-way stop, I begin my drive. The sun begins to rise, peeking through a dense and overgrown tree line.

Swaths of violet cover the sky. Nature’s ode to Rothko. Words from a new poem return to me. By eight a.m. the light begins to slowly illuminate the studio.

I retrieve the poem, a piece of printed folded paper amid the pages of a book I’ve brought with me. I read it again.

I write down notations.

I study and sketch and continue to paint.

I pause and think back in memory to when this form of meditation began. I’m compelled to question when did the pattern shift, expand to become what it now is. A ritual once deliberately formed for thoughtful dedication became a sacred space.

Recognizing time and practice has reshaped and informed the process, more is achieved.

Sarah West serves the Opelika Observer as a contributing columnist, with written works of cultural arts relevance and prose. She is a preservation and conservation advocate, activist and visual artist of American Illustration with a focus on regional narrative painting. She is the founder of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts, Smiths Station. She is the appointed official artist to the city of Smiths Station, a Lee County syndicated columnist, the director of her art center’s Cultural Arts Outreach Initiative, which partners with

By Sarah West local schools to make the arts accessible to all. She also serves a chief curator to the city of Smiths Station, City Hall Art Galleries. She is a founding member of the Smith Station Historic Commission.

She is a member of the Women’s Philanthropy Board-Cary Center, Auburn University College of Human Science. She is an elected member of the Society of Illustrators-New York City. She mentors art students of every age through weekly classes at her studio located in the heart of Smiths Station.

To learn more about her work and activism visit, www.thesarahwestgalleryoffineart. com.

YOUR DESTINATION for CONTINUED FINE ARTS EDUCATION STUDIO CLASSES | DRAWING, PAINTING & MORE for ALL AGES www.thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com

but I understand why alternatives are sought

F

or maybe 15 years, but especially since 2017, controversy has swirled around a simple saying: “Thank you for your service.” It is said to a service member or military veteran with gratitude. The issue arose not from civilians but from military people themselves.

It just happened; like deciding to suddenly enlist for one’s country.

As Pvt. John Winger (Bill Murray) said in ‘Stripes,’ “We’re all very, very different. But there is one thing we all have in common: we were all stupid enough to enlist in the Army (or another branch).

There’s something seriously wrong with us - we’re soldiers.

But we’re American soldiers! We’re ten and one!”

This was a humorous way to describe the close-knit group of men and women who have worn a military uniform.

Also, Winger refers to the disastrous

T

By Greg Markley Vietnam War, which ended with more than 50,000 American deaths. Most historians tag that war a U.S. loss (thus the “10 and 1”).

Soldiers returning from Vietnam would have been happy to receive even a weak welcome such as “Thank you for your service.” Instead, people irate over the war threw things at them and called them “baby killers.” There are valid, appropriate reasons for either side—the anti-“Thank you’s” and the pro-“Thank you’s.”

“Most SEALs don’t wear their uniform out in public, so we don’t really get thanked for our

service,” a Navy Petty Officer told San Diego Magazine in 2017. “If you’re looking for thanks then you’re in the wrong job, because people shouldn’t know what we do. I don’t do this for the acknowledgment or the money—it’s about serving my country.”

Another view came from a Navy Master Chief: “It’s important for civilians to understand that our response is just as heartfelt when we say ‘Thank you for your support’ in return.

I hope they feel our sense of gratitude as well. Without their support on the homefront and appreciation of the values that our country stands for, why else would we volunteer our service?”

Just two months ago on Veterans Day 2019, a poll showed that 49% of veterans would prefer not to be thanked. The poll was conducted by See Markley, page A6

A cat named Rover

he other day, a friend chided for not writing something positive about cats.

She is one of those cat people, of whom there are many, who take delight in what they consider to be the positive traits exhibited by the domestic feline.

They speak of intelligence, companionship, independence and a whole host of wonderful characteristics some folks find admirable.

She even had a cat that (she claims) practiced holistic medicine.

And who am I to say she didn’t?

So when she challenged me to come up with something nice to opine about felines I decided “why not.”

So I will write about Rover the cat.

He got his name because he roved up one day.

Black and white and skin and bones.

Arriving without fanfare and without pedigree, lost or strayed or just passing through and taking a break.

Had it not been for my innate sympathy for the dejected and downtrodden, I would have sent him on his way to continue searching for whatever he was searching for.

Instead, I fed him.

He stayed.

Now at the time, there was another

By Hardy Jackson

cat in my life, whose presence did much to shape my attitude toward the species.

Growltiger, who belonged to my daughter, was an inside cat.

She was ill-tempered, ill-mannered, vain and conceited.

Growltiger and I carried on a running battle of wits to see who could irritate the other the most. Once, at a party, she settled down in full view of me and my guests and licked herself until she formed a massive hairball which she loudly disgorged for all to see and for me to clean up. Another time she went into my closet and used my shoes as a litter box.

Though I fed her every morning, Growltiger treated me with a mixture of disdain and disgust.

She ate as if I wasn’t there, as if somehow she and she alone had willed the food to miraculously appear simply and exclusively because she was not just “a” cat, but “the” cat.

Which is why Growltiger did not like Rover.

Which is why I did.

Unlike Growltiger, Rover appreciated the food I gave him.

And he appreciated the little cathouse I fixed for him outback when winter approached and it was apparent that he had no intention of leaving. He appreciated it when I dressed his wounds, for Rover was a fighter but not a very good one. He was a better lover, to which the number of black and white kittens in the neighborhood attested, and I am certain that many of the cuts he brought home for me to tend were as much the product of passion as pugnacity.

And Rover, as you might have gathered by now, was male.

Everyone else in and around my house wasn’t.

Rover and I bonded.

Rover liked the warm and soon revealed himself as a master at finding a sunny spot and going to sleep. You could almost use Rover as a sundial, for as the celestial orb moved, so did he. And as the years rolled by sleeping in the sun became his favorite pastime.

Eventually Growltiger went to kitty heaven – well, maybe not heaven – but Rover hung in there. His age as undeterminable as his gene pool, he lived on and lived well.

His favorite sleeping spot was in the middle of a sunSee Jackson, page A6

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A5 Jan. 22, 2020

New owners celebrate opening of the First Avenue Jim Bob’s Monday

Photos by Natalie Anderson/Opelika Observer

OHS Band Director Neal Sasser speaks to Opelika Lions Club Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Opelika High School Band Director Neal Sasser was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club where he was presented with checks for a share of the OHS home football concessions.

Mr. Sasser thanked the club for its continued support of the band and discussed upcoming band events, including the first concert to start Summer Swing at Opelika’s Municipal Park.

Lion President Glenn Stokes, left, and concessions chairman James Morgan, Jr., right, made the introduction and presentation.

By Opelika Observer Staff

Alternative Baseball founder Taylor Duncan visits Opelika Kiwanis Club earlier this month Photo special to the Opelika Observer Taylor Duncan, founder of Alternative Baseball for autistic youth and adults, spoke to the Opelika Kiwanis Club earlier this month.

Pictured are Rickey Elliott, Duncan and Robert Elliott.

The organization was founded by Duncan in 2016.

Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder when he was 4 years old, Duncan said his positive experiences playing baseball while he was growing up helped him see the sport as a vehicle for other people with special needs.

Opelika Rotary Club donates $25K to city of Opelika’s Neighborhood Mobile Clinic last week

Observer launching magazine project to commemorate anniversary, lives affected

by March 3 tornadoes

In correlation with the one-year anniversary of the March 3, 2019 tornadoes that decimated portions of Lee County, the Opelika Observer is working on a publication that will chronicle the events of that day, along with stories of generosity, survival and ultimately - hope.

“We decided to take on this project because of the demand for copies of our newspapers for our coverage of the storms in the following weeks and the need to compile all that into one place.

Plus, the magnitude of this weather event and its impact on Lee County is something that merited its own publication,” said Observer Publisher Michelle Key. “The main goal of this project is to be able to use it to give

back to the community in the form of a monetary donation to be used to continue the rebuilding efforts.

We recognize that the recovery process is going to take a long time and we want the community to know that we are here to help them.”

“This is a passion project for us because the people affected by this are our neighbors, friends and, in some cases, our families.

We want this to be a keepsake publication that people can look over time and time again and remember the events of that tragic day,” added Observer Editor Morgan Bryce.

Copies of the 130-plus page magazine can be ordered in advance on our website, by completing and mailing in the order form on A2 or by calling the office at 334-749-8003.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer The Opelika Rotary Club presented a $25,000 check to the city of Opelika to assist with their planned neighborhood mobile clinic expected to launch this spring.

pelika O Opinion

A6 Jan. 22, 2020

Tax considerations for self-employed individuals

I

have many clients who are either fully self-employed or have a side business in addition to their fulltime job. If you fall into this category, you may have special tax considerations that may enhance your tax return’s complexity.

The IRS generally considers taxpayers to be self-employed if they carry on a trade or business as a sole proprietor or independent contractor (as opposed to an employee), are a member of a partnership or conduct a parttime or side business.

Benefits of SelfEmployment Business deductions available to selfemployed taxpayers vastly exceed those available to employees, subject to IRS regulations and business relevance. Business expenses such as telephone, Internet, office supplies and furniture, liability insurance, marketing and advertising, computer equipment, allowable business meals and even medical insurance premiums may qualify for tax deductions under the right circumstances.

Business Structure Your business structure is another important consideration. The typical options are sole proprietorships, partnerships (for two or more business owners) and corporations. Alabama law permits each of these options. The IRS will typically consider individuals to be sole proprietors unless they specifically elect another type of structure, such as a Corporation (or the more popular S Corporation for smaller businesses).

For example, you may register a limited liability company (LLC)

Jackson, from A4 warmed street, and since the road we lived on was short and dead ended, he was safe from speeding cars.

Besides, the neighbors knew when he would be out and they gave him the right-of-way.

So every day that the sun shone, and some days when it didn’t but the asphalt was still

or a corporation with the state. In such cases, you may also obtain a Federal Employer ID Number (FEIN) from the IRS to avoid using your personal Social Security Number.

Many people assume forming an LLC automatically provides better tax treatment, but this is not the case.

Forming an LLC is primarily designed to help reduce legal liability as opposed to preferential tax treatment.

Self-Employment Tax Taxpayers who start a side business or transition from employment to entrepreneurship are often at risk of sticker shock when they receive their tax bill. The primary reason taxpayers are unprepared for their tax bill is because of the self-employment (SE) tax in addition to federal and state income tax.

SE tax is similar to Social Security and Medicare taxes withheld from employee paychecks. However, the SE tax is double employee withholdings, because employers are required to match their employee Social Security and Medicare taxes. Selfemployed individuals must pay this tax entirely on their own, and it is a whopping 15.3% of your business net profit.

The good news is that Social Security tax is capped at the annual Social Security

Wage Base (which is $137,700 for 2020 on your combined employment and selfemployed income).

However, amounts exceeding this are still taxed at a minimum 2.9% to cover Medicare (which has no cap).

Oftentimes, taxpayers with a small side business can cover this tax through a reduced refund. However, as the business grows, individuals often find themselves owing significant taxes at year-end, even if they increased withholdings at their primary job. In other situations, taxpayers may fail to pay estimated taxes throughout the year, only to encounter the full tax bill at tax time. To make matters worse, taxpayers often face penalties and interest for failing to pay their bill throughout the year. This is why paying estimated taxes throughout the year is important for entrepreneurs.

Many other considerations exist, such as maintaining proper books and records, paying employees and independent contractors (and determining how to classify them), managing payroll returns, identifying taxable and nontaxable income and even retirement account options. Be sure to thoroughly explore and discuss all your options with your accountant to help set your business up for success.

Justin Smith is a licensed certified public accountant in Opelika, specializing in individual and small business tax and accounting.

He can be contacted at 334-400-9234 or Justin@JSmithCPA.net.

His website is www. jsmithcpa.net.

warm, you could find him there.

One bright day he slowly made his way out to his favorite spot, pausing from time to time to shake off the ache in his ancient joints. Then he lay down and closed his eyes and sometime between then and sunset he died.

I buried him in the garden, right next to the compost pile, the decaying heat from which, I figured,

would warm him on his way.

No marker. But if there had been one it would have read, “Rover. Good cat.

He weren’t no trouble.”

Not a bad way to go.

Nor a bad way to be remembered.

Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is professor emeritus of history at Jacksonville State University. He can be reached at hjackson@ cableone.net.

Justin Smith

Markley, from A4 Cohen Veterans Network, a national notfor-profit of mental health clinics for post 9/11 vets and military families. Polled were 2,019 U.S. adults ages 18 and older, 218 who are U.S. military veterans or active duty service members.

Yet it was not all bleak news from the Cohen poll. It turns out that a majority of the veterans and active-duty service members polled would not object if a civilian asked them “When did you serve?” (71% in favor); “Where were you stationed?” (Also 71% for); or “What was your job while serving?” (73% for).

A 2017 article by Dr. Michael Brennan in Psychology Today featured a list of four reasons why veterans and active-duty military members oppose the saying “Thank you for your service.”

Brennan is associate clinical director of

Dietrich, from A4 to shirtless TV-Man, who hasn’t eaten carbohydrates since Reagan was in office, I look like John Candy.

Again, I don’t mean to criticize Hollywood.

I know they must work hard at producing so many genuinely crappy movies. But I miss a time when B-movies didn’t try so hard.

The old American double-feature movie poster didn’t take itself seriously. The B-movie made no attempt to hide the fact that the film you were about to see truly sucked. And somehow this made it kind of cool.

The gaudy posters featured cowboys, gumshoes, spaceships, or a fifty-foot reptile holding Zsa Zsa Gabor in his gigantic claw.

When I was in fifth grade, Ben Heit would have these wonderful sleepovers and invite all the boys over for B-movie marathons.

We would eat truckloads of jawbreakers, talk about girls, and watch Japanese monster movies. Ben

the Road Home program for Veterans at Rush Medical Center based in Chicago.

“First, those who believe this say it could ‘trigger’ someone to have an emotional reaction,” said Brennan. “This might mean someone would get angry or irritated “You don’t know what I’ve done.” respond reactively “You don’t know what I have been through.” or question your intent “Why would you say that?”

Other rationale against the saying include that Vietnam veterans may have had a poor return home that still upsets them; that with a volunteer versus a draftee there may be challenges to the phrase; and that a better option is saying “Thank you for your willingness to serve,” “Welcome home,” or “Thank you for your sacrifice.”

Those three choices above sound good, but “Welcome Home” is the weakest. Why? Because it is like saying “Have a nice day.” It is rote and

has lost any meaning. My concern with “thank you for your service” is that it sounds like a cop-out.

That is something you might say when a person, through no fault of their own, loses a job. Someone unfeeling might offer: “Thank you for your service—you worked great, but the store folded up just the same.”

In the end, most people who say “Thanks for your service…” are wellintended, perhaps more so in the gracious Southern U.S. So, if veterans answer nicely, all involved will get used to the approach and reply that the other person prefers. Good advice came from Gen. George S. Patton: “Say what you mean and mean what you say.”

Greg Markley has lived in Lee County for 18 of the last 23 years. An awardwinning journalist, he has master’s degrees in education and history. He has taught as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama.

Heit’s family had a television that was enormous for its era; about the size of a paperback novel. It was the biggest TV around for miles.

Ben’s old man loved B-movies. During each film he would show his excitement by making loud noises without using his mouth. Ben’s father ate lots of carbohydrates.

All night we’d watch Japanese actors running around Tokyo with the English dialogue dubbed over the soundtrack. You’d see the lips of a Japanese man shout what appeared to be four paragraphs of dialogue, but all you heard on the American soundtrack was, “Look! Godzilla!”

We were an easy audience. We were entertained by simple movies without the effluvia of today’s digital world. There was no sex involved. And nobody used dumb words like effluvia.

My father watched “Gunsmoke” every evening after work.

Where did shows like that go? Today, they’d laugh Marshal Dil-

lon out of the Long Branch Saloon.

“Bonanza” was another good one. I’ll bet Little Joe ate plenty of carbs. “I Love Lucy” couldn’t be any better.

For crying out loud, I even like “Family Affair.”

But somewhere along the way, everything changed and I got left behind. Maybe that’s why I’m watching the “Andy Griffith Show” tonight even though I’ve seen every episode a hundred times. I suppose that sometimes it’s just nice to know an old friend is still around when you need him.

Maybe when I get hungry I’ll go to the kitchen and find a wooden army-man figurine to gnaw on.

Just as soon as I visit the rose bushes.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and novelist, known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Southern Living, the Tallahassee Democrat, Southern Magazine, Yellowhammer News, the Bitter Southerner, the Mobile Press Register and he has authored seven books.

Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: • Jan. 25 - Jason Ringenberg at The Standard Deluxe • Feb. 1 - J.W. Darden Foundation’s ‘Black Tie Legacy Gala’ • Feb. 3 - East Alabama Arts Association hosting Drum Tao at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts • Feb 8 - Haddie’s Home Dessert Tasing • Feb 14. - OTC’s Murder Mystery Dinner Theater

19 th Annual Taste of Chocolate to feature yummy desserts Jan. 28 Ann Cipperly’s

Southern

Hospitality

T

riple Chocolate Mocha Brownies, White Chocolate Caramel Pecan Fudge and other assorted yummy chocolate confections will be featured at the 19th annual Taste of Chocolate on Jan. 28 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Trinity United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. Members of the Beta XI Chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa Teachers’ Sorority are experts at making scrumptious chocolate desserts, adding a few new ones with favorites over the

years. Proceeds from the event go to their scholarship program.

Every year, members look over their chocolate recipe collection and decide which ones they will prepare for the Taste of Chocolate event.

They dedicate their time in gathering the ingredients and baking the special desserts to help local students receive a scholarship to become future teachers.

Carolyn Moore continues to provide Chocolate Cherry Mice, their signature

confection.

This year, she is also making Cloud Cookies. Other members also are creating luscious chocolate desserts, including fudge, nut clusters, brownies, cookies, cheesecake and much more.

The Alpha Delta Kappa International Sorority was founded in 1947 by four women educators.

Opelika’s chapter, Beta Xi, was formed in 1972. Its purpose is to recognize women educators who are strong and efficient, to build fraternal fellow-

Photo by Ann Cipperly Members of the Beta XI Chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa Teachers’ Sorority will hold their 19 th annual Taste of Chocolate on Tuesday, Jan. 28 from 5:30 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Trinity United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. A variety of chocolate desserts will be offered. Tickets are $8 and are available from any member or at the door the night of the event. Pictured are, from left, Kay Spriggs, Nancy Weatherman and Carolyn Moore.

ships and to serve the community’s altruistic projects. There are currently 25 members from different schools in Lee County.

In 2001, a $500 scholarship was awarded to a high school senior. In 2019, the Taste of Chocolate funds have allowed the chapter to award two $1,000 scholarships.

Last year’s winners were Grace Horn from Lee-Scott Academy and Alexandria Jones from Opelika High School. Horn is planning to enter the University of Montevallo.

Jones is planning to attend Southern Union. She has been working with children in the after school program at Morris Avenue.

Kay Spriggs, who has been a member since 1998, will be installed as the state president this spring.

She invites everyone to come to the Taste of Chocolate to support the scholarships.

Valentine’s Day is coming up shortly.

You may want to purchase extra to freeze.

See Recipes, page A11

Announcing OSF Relay for Life for Lee 2020 Artist Lineup County holding ‘Chili Cook-Off’ event Jan. 23 Special to the Opelika Observer

Special to the Opelika Observer Organizers are excited to announce the initial artist lineup for the “2nd Annual Opelika Songwriters Festival.”

The festival will take place in multiple venues throughout downtown Opelika from March 27 to 29, 2020. The festival kicks off Friday evening March 27 and will conclude Sunday afternoon March 29.

TICKET OPTIONS: - 3 Day pass which gives one access to all the festival venues over the weekend. It does not include the VIP Brunch on Sunday.

- 3 Day VIP pass which gives one access to all the festival venues over the weekend PLUS the VIP Brunch on Sunday. A VIP pass includes a buffet-style brunch and an up close and personal “in-the- round” concert with three festival artists.

Ticket prices are currently discounted and VIP passes are limited so be sure to grab your tickets now.

Following is the con-

firmed list of participating artists: - The War & Treaty - Dark Water

Relay For Life of Lee County will kick off the 2020 year with a Chili Cook-Off on Jan. 23, a time to bring together those who are fighting cancer and others who want to support efforts to end the deadly See Relay, page A10

See OSF, page A8

Monday-Saturday 11 AM - 8 PM

pelika O Observer

A8 Jan. 22, 2020

Bottling Plant Event Center to host ‘2020 Galentine’s Gala’ Special to the Opelika Observer Acclaimed humorist and motivational speaker Jeanne Robertson will highlight the CDH Foundation’s “2020 Galentine’s Gala” on Feb. 13 at the Bottling Plant Event Center. Robertson, a North Carolina native, is best known for her inclusion on the SiriusXM’s Blue Collar Comedy Channel lineup.

The foundation was created in 2017 after the journey that parents Justin and Jessica Quinn had in helping their daughter Lily

overcome her diagnosis of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia doctors discovered during a routine 28week ultrasound.

Survival was the greatest fight of Lily’s life in the days after her birth, but following a miraculous recovery, she was able to go home with her family only five weeks later.

Another obstacle the Quinns faced was medical expenses, with their insurance company only willing to cover half of their nearly $500,000 hospital bill. However, help came in the form

of grant money from another family that covered the remainder of their expenses.

Based on their experience, the Quinns decided to establish a foundation to benefit other families facing the same diagnosis with their children.

Check-in begins at 5 p.m. Guests will be able to enjoy cocktails and shopping, as well as a silent auction.

Dinner begins at 6:45 p.m. followed by the program at 7:30 p.m.

Sponsorships and table sponsorships are available. For information on making a silent auction donation

or to learn more about sponsorships, contact Amy Wadsworth Register by email at CDH@Sensigreen. com.

Event proceeds will benefit the CDH and NICUnited foundations.

Tickets available via weblink.donorperfect. com:///2020galentines gala, are $125 per person and $225 per couple.

For more information on this event and others, call 334-7055466 or visit www. bottlingplanteventcenter.com. The venue is located at 614 N. Railroad.

Robertson

Opelika ‘Society Reporter’ offers review of ‘Nunsense, the Mega Musical’ staged by Opelika Theatre Company

I

must admit, I am a musical theater snob. I adore nearly ever musical ever made. So, when it comes to way off Broadway musical productions, I tend to walk away from the theater a bit flat.

Saturday, I attended Opelika Theatre Company’s production of ‘Nunsense, the Mega Musical.’

Now, if you attended Catholic school, like yours truly, seeing a whole gaggle of penguins in one room makes you want to sit up straight with your

OSF, from A7 - Shawn Mullins - Dan Navarro - Kim Richey

feet on the floor, eyes forward and hands to yourself. So when the cast entered, hands clapping and habits swinging, I knew this was not your mama’s Catholic school production.

The Reverend Mother, played by Marty Moore resembled Sister Joan from my youth, somehow failing to step into the 20th century, but trying. Moore captured this role brilliantly, even brought back my own memories of "rush,” though I'm sure I never

recieved as many laughs after inhaling.

Sister Hubert was played by a newcomer to OTC, Dawn Mosely, and when she belted out the first few lines of "Holier Than Thou" I knew I was not seeing the last of this talented woman.

Cathy Mayhugh portrayed Sister Robert Anne and her stage presense was simply outstanding.

And when Sister Amnesia (Chelsea Lawrence) brought out that puppet!

I don't think there was a

- Jeff Black - Sarah Lee Guthrie - Leigh Nash - Grayson Capps - Charlie Mars - Steve Poltz - Abe Partridge - Adam Hood

- Sugarcane Jane -Szlachetka - Pierce Pettis - Martha’s Trouble and more to come.

Tickets are now on sale at www.opelikasongwritersfestival.com.

single audience member who didn't let out a belly laugh. Molly Blackman, who played Sister Leo, also commanded the stage with her lovely voice, and of course Sister Julia - Child of God (Sandy Waldo) added just the right touch of color to the whole production.

There were so many wonderful performances by the cast members. The children were just precious with their rendition of “Grease Lightning,” I found myself doing the

hand jive right in my seat.

And the ensemble! What can I say - one as talented as the next.

I must say, dear readers, this theater snob was more than pleasantly surprised this evening, and I dare say OTC’s production of Nunsense was their most advantageous and successful undertaking to date.

And frankly, if you, like me, weren't sure if a small town theater company could pull it off - I'm here to tell you they absolutely did, and I'm thrilled to have

witnessed it.

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. This is the little theatre company that could! And tonight - they did.

Their next event will be “Haunting of the Southside Speakeasy,” a murder mystery dinner theatre event on Feb. 14. Tickets can be purchased online at squareup.com/store/OpelikaTheatreCo. Till Next Time, Mary Burger Society Reporter

OHTS to stage first production of 2020 from Jan. 23 to 26 Special to the Opelika Observer

The Opelika High School Theatre Society will present “Black Comedy” from Jan. 23 to 26 at the Opelika Center for Performing Arts.

According to a synopsis copied from www. stageagent.com, the story focuses on a “struggling sculptor named Brindsley Miller and his fiance, Carol, who are having a party

with the aim of impressing Carol's bombastic father Colonel Melkett, and millionaire Georg Bamberger.

They hope the two men might purchase some of Brindsley's sculptures ... just before the guests arrive, the main fuse blows, plunging the flat into darkness.

Only we, the audience, can see the action that ensues in the dark. As you might expect, the results are chaotic, disastrous and very funny,

indeed!”

Shows on Jan. 23, 24 and 25 all begin at 7 p.m. while the Jan. 26 show will start at 3 p.m.

Admission is $7 for students and $10 for adults at the door.

For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, call 334-745-9715 or send email to ohts@opelikaschools.org. The venue is located at 1700 Lafayette Parkway.

Elliott & Associates Insurance Agency Opelika - (334)745-0888 elliottinsuranceagents.com

pelika O Opinion

AACT to hold free workshops Special to the Opelika Observer Starting on Jan. 7 and lasting through the month, the Auburn Area Community Theatre is holding workshops open to the public on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center.

This is a great opportunity for anyone who is interested in local theatre but might be unsure how to get involved. An AACT Board Member will be present at every workshop to answer questions while participants engage in theatre activities, improvisational games and receive

A9 Jan. 22, 2020

Local belly dance troup to stage production in Auburn on Feb. 8 Special to the Opelika Observer

tips about auditioning or production.

There will also be time reserved for mingling so guests can get to know AACT and each other.

The workshops are not sequential, so guests can attend as many or as few as they are able to. One does not have to attend all sessions, but what fun it would be! Participants should be at least 16 years of age. This will be a great opportunity to come out, have some fun and learn more about the local theatre community.

Auditions for the AACT’s next show “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike” will begin in March.

The Firefly Nights Belly Dance Troupe's fifth annual production titled "Perchance to Dream" will be held Feb. 8 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Jan Dempsey Arts Center

in Auburn.

Firefly Nights members will dance through the wonderful, weird and terrifying worlds where only the dreamer can tread. Don't miss this spectacle featuring a variety of belly dance styles in

FNBD's most ambitious show yet.

Early bird tickets are only $15 and are available online at eventbrite.com.

Day-of tickets will cost $18 and VIP tickets are $25. The date-night package is $45, which includes

two VIP seats, two signed programs, two concession boxes and flowers for one's date.

For more information, visit fireflynightsbellydance. com. The venue is located at 222 E. Drake Ave.

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pelika Observer O Sweetland Amphitheatre announces first six concerts of 2020 concert year A10

Jan. 22, 2020

Special to the Opelika Observer Representatives of the Sweetland Ampitheatre in downtown LaGrange have announced the first six concerts of Sweetland Amphitheatre’s fifth concert year, presented by KIA Motors, with more concerts to be announced.

Schedule: • March 27 – Black Jacket Symphony presents: Led Zeppelin’s “IV” and Greatest Hits • April 18 – STYX • April 25 – Bethel Music in partnership with R.U.S.H. Ministries • May 8 – Emmylou

Harris with special guests Mandolin Orange • May 17 – Fantasia • May 22 – Amy Grant More concerts to be announced.

Sweetland Sweet

Pass Membership public enrollment began Jan. 20 at 10 a.m. and continues through Jan. 30 at 11:55 p.m More information on Sweetland’s new membership program

Relay, from A7 disease.

The annual Relay event has been set for April 17 from 6 to 10 p.m. in downtown Opelika around the courthouse square. It is an event and time to honor those who fight cancer daily, remember those who have lost their battle with

here: www.sweetland.events/sweetpass-membership Tickets will go on sale to Sweet Pass Members on Jan. 31 at 10 a.m.

Public tickets on sale Feb. 7 at 10 a.m.

the disease, and thank the caregivers, donors and others who help in the fight to find a cure.

For more than 20 years, Lee County residents have raised more than $90,000 each year to fight cancer, and money raised helps locals in supporting various efforts including patient care programs as well as help fund groundbreaking research at the national level.

Check Out Our New Tiger Town Location Across from Lowe’s, another convenient location to serve our customers

The Chili Cook-Off will last from 5:45 to 7 p.m. in the EAMC Education Center, which is located at 2027 Pepperell Parkway.

“The Chili Cook-Off has become a tradition in Lee County in January, where team captains, members and those interested in learning more about our relay join together for a good meal and hear about our plans for the 2020 Relay

For Life event,” said Randy Causey, cochair for the 2020 event along with his wife, Debra, a twotime cancer survivor.

“Fighting cancer is personal, and it’s something almost everyone shares because we all know someone who has been affected by cancer,” Debra said. “Joining with those who are fighting the disease, whether they have been diagnosed or because a loved one or friend has, brings us together as one group for a cause we can all get behind.”

“It’s a great time of fellowship and team spirit, and we invite the public to attend,” she added.

Find out more online at www.relayforlife.org/leeal or on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/ leecountyrelay/ or contact event cochairs Randy Causey at 334-703-6621; Debra Causey at 334703-5188 and ACS Community Development Manager Kalyn Frederick at 334-5389508.

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pelika O Observer Cipperly, from A7 Homemade chocolates goodies are much

Recipes Cloud Cookies Carolyn Moore 3 egg whites, stiffly beaten 2/3 cup sugar Dash salt 1 cup almonds, chopped 1 cup mini-size chocolate chips Preheat oven to 350 for 15 minutes. Fold sugar, salt, nuts and chips into egg whites.

Drop onto greased cookie sheet. Put cookies in the oven and turn off heat. Leave 2 ½ hours or overnight. Do not open oven door.

White Chocolate Caramel Pecan Fudge Jerry Barber 3 cups white chocolate chips 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk 4 Tbsp. butter 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 cup chopped pecans 1/2 cup caramel sauce, room temperature Combine chocolate chips, milk, and butter in a medium-size glass bowl and heat in the microwave for 90 seconds. Stir to combine and heat another 15 seconds. Stir and heat an additional 15 seconds, only if needed. There will still be a few pieces of chocolate not melted in the bowl.

Stir until mostly smooth with just a few flecks of chocolate. Add vanilla and pecans and stir to combine.

Scoop onto a parchment lined tray. Spread with a spatula to approximately 1-inch thickness. Drizzle with caramel sauce. Lightly swirl the caramel into the fudge with a knife or the end of the spatula.

Chill until ready to serve. Slice into 1-inch squares and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy!

Scotcharoos Amanda Baker 1 cup light corn syrup 1 cup white sugar 1 1/2 cups peanut butter 6 cups crisp rice cereal 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1/2 cup butterscotch chips Generously butter a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Set aside.

In a large pot, mix together corn syrup, sugar and peanut butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring until peanut butter melts. Bring mixture to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in crisp rice cereal.

Transfer mixture into a well buttered 9x13 inch pan. With your hands well buttered, pat it down into pan.

In a medium saucepan, over medium low heat, melt chocolate chips and butterscotch chips until smooth.

A11 Jan. 22, 2020

better than storebought and make a wonderful gift or special treat for your family. Don’t forget those who are home bound and would en-

joy receiving special chocolates.

Tickets are only $8 and are available from any member of the Beta Xi chapter or at the door at the Trin-

ity United Methodist Fellowship Hall. The chocolate goodies can be enjoyed at the tasting or taken home.

Coffee and other beverages are served

without additional cost. “We would like to thank Trinity for allowing us to continue using the fellowship hall,” said Carolyn Moore.

For further information or questions, contact Moore at carolyn. moore@myops.net.

Ann Cipperly can be reached at recipes@ cipperly.com.

Spread over top of bars and let bars cool.

Cut into squares.

Butterscotch Haystacks Deborah Lindsey 2 cups (12 oz.) semisweet chocolate chips 1 pkg. (10 to 11 oz.) butterscotch chips 4 cups crispy chow mein noodles In a large microwave-safe bowl in the microwave or large metal bowl over simmering water, melt chocolate chips and butterscotch chips; stir until smooth. Gently stir in noodles.

Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto waxed paperlined baking sheets.

Refrigerate 10 to 15 minutes or until set.

Makes 3 dozen.

Chocolate Drizzle: Microwave half the chocolate chips with the shortening until melted and smooth.

Add the remaining chocolate chips and stir vigorously until melted.

Let chocolate cool 2-3 minutes. Drizzle over frosted brownies.

with parchment (baking) paper or waxed paper.

In a bowl, mix together the dates and walnuts. Set aside.

Place the chocolate in the top pan of a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl set over (but not touching) hot (not simmering) water. Heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.

Pour out the hot water from the bottom pan and replace it with lukewarm water. Replace the top pan or heatproof bowl. Let the chocolate stand, stirring frequently, until it cools slightly and begins to thicken, about 10 minutes.

Stir the date-walnut mixture into the chocolate, mixing thoroughly. Using a small spoon, scoop out slightly rounded teaspoonfuls of the mixture and drop onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly. Refrigerate uncovered until set, about 2 hours.

Place these sweet treats in candy cups and pack into gift tins. If fresh dates are unavailable, purchase chopped, dried dates.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

2 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract Mini Reese’s, cut in half Crust: Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Add cupcake liners to a cupcake pan.

Combine the Oreo crumbs and melted butter. Divide the mixture between the cupcake liners (about 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons per cup) and press into the bottoms.

Bake crusts for 8 minutes then remove from oven. Allow to cool while you make the filling.

Cheesecake Filling and Toppings: Reduce oven to 300 degrees.

In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese, sugar and flour until combined (use low speed to keep less air from getting into the batter, which can cause cracks).

Scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Add the sour cream, peanut butter and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until well combined.

Add eggs one at a time, beating slowly and scraping the sides of the bowl after each addition. Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s.

Divide the batter between the cupcake liners and fill most of the way.

Bake cheesecakes for 13 minutes, then turn off oven and leave the door closed for another 10 minutes.

Crack the oven door and allow cheesecakes to cool for 15 to 20 minutes, then put in the fridge to finish cooling.

Once the cheesecakes are cooled and firm, make the whipped cream. Add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, cocoa powder and vanilla extract to a mixer bowl fitted with the whisk attachment. Whip on high speed until stiff peaks form.

Pipe swirls on top of each cheesecake, then top with half of a mini Reese’s.

Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Chocolate Toffee Cashew Clusters Beth Brewer 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 Tbsp. solid vegetable shortening 3 cups salted cashews 1 ¼ cups toffee bits, divided In a microwave safe bowl, melt together the chocolate chips and shortening. Melt on the 50% power setting in 30 to 45 second increments, stopping to stir each cycle. Repeat until completely smooth.

Add cashews and 1 cup toffee bits and mix until all the nuts are covered.

Spread wax paper on the kitchen counter.

Drop clusters onto the wax paper at least 1-inch apart.

Sprinkle the tops with the remaining toffee bits while the chocolate is still wet.

Allow to sit until hardened or refrigerate to set more quickly.

White Chocolate, Fruit and Nut Clusters Kay Spriggs 1 pkg. (6 squares) white chocolate 1/3 cup sunflower kernels 1/3 cup slivered almonds 1/3 cup dried cranberries Microwave chocolate in medium microwaveable bowl on high 2 minutes or until chocolate is almost melted; stir until completely melted.

Stir in remaining ingredients.

Spoon 1 tsp. chocolate mixture into each of 48 mini paper muffin cup liners. Refrigerate 10 minutes or until firm.

Chocolate-A-Roons Nancy Weatherman 5 1/3 cups (14 oz. bag) Baker’s Angel Flake Coconut 1 (14oz.) can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk 2 tsp. vanilla 4 squares semisweet chocolate, melted Combine coconut, condensed milk and vanilla, mixing well.

Fold in melted chocolate.

Drop from teaspoon 1 inch apart on wellgreased baking sheets.

Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned.

Remove at once from baking sheets, using moistened spatula.

Makes about 5 dozen.

Chocolate

Triple Chocolate Mocha Brownies Beth Brewer Brownies: 2 tsp. instant espresso powder 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. salt 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup melted butter 2 eggs Frosting: 1/2 cup butter, softened 1½ cups powdered sugar 3 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder 1 tsp. instant espresso powder 2 tsp. heavy cream Chocolate Drizzle: 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips 1 tsp. shortening Brownies: Preheat oven to 350.

Mix together cocoa, espresso powder, flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.

Using a hand mixer, mix sugar and melted butter.

Then add eggs and mix again.

Slowly add dry ingredients while mixing.

Line an 8 x 8 baking dish with foil. Press foil down firmly into the dish. Spray with non- stick spray.

Pour batter into prepared dish and spread evenly.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Allow brownies to cool before frosting. Once cooled and frosted, remove the foil and brownies from baking dish.

Carefully peel foil away from brownies and slice.

Frosting: Combine butter and powdered sugar into your mixing bowl.

Mix for 3-4 minutes, until light and fluffy.

Add espresso powder, cream and cocoa powder.

Then mix for 1 more minute.

No Bake Cookie Balls with Chocolate Chips Deborah Lindsey I make them a day or two ahead to let the flavors blend.

1 cup (6 oz.) semisweet chocolate chips 3 cups confectioners’ sugar 1 ¾ cups crushed vanilla wafers (about 55 wafers) 1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted 3/4 cup orange juice 3 Tbsp. light corn syrup Additional confectioners’ sugar In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips; stir until smooth. Stir in the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla wafers, walnuts, orange juice and corn syrup.

Shape into 1 inch balls; roll in additional confectioners’ sugar.

Store in an airtight container.

Easy Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars Amanda Baker 2 bags (4 cups) semisweet chocolate chips, divided 1 ½ cups peanut butter 1/2 cup powdered sugar Melt 1 bag chocolate chips in the microwave (15 seconds, stir, repeat until melted smooth).

Spread chocolate in bottom of a non-stick 9 x 9 pan. Let harden.

Use a hand mixer to mix together 1 1/2 cups peanut butter with 1/2 cup powdered sugar.

Spread over hardened chocolate.

Melt 1 more bag chocolate chips.

Spread on top of peanut butter layer.

Let harden.

Chocolate Peanut Crunches Kay Spriggs Melt 1 cup milk chocolate chips. Stir in 2 ½ cups dried chow mein noodles. Drop from a tablespoon onto an oiled baking sheet and sprinkle with coarsely chopped peanuts or almonds. Let cool.

Walnut-Date Clusters with Milk Chocolate Deborah Lindsey 1½ cups coarsely chopped pitted dates 1½ cups coarsely chopped walnuts 1½ cups milk chocolate, finely chopped Line a baking sheet

Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake Beth Brewer Crust: 1 1/2 cups Oreo cookie crumbs 2 Tbsp. butter, melted Cheesecake: 12 oz. cream cheese, room temperature 1/2 cup sugar 3 Tbsp. flour 1/4 cup sour cream 6 Tbsp. peanut butter 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 2 eggs 1 cup chopped Mini Reese’s Chocolate Whipped Cream: 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, cold 3 Tbsp, powdered sugar

Food Ratings Butcher Paper BBQ 128 Columbus Parkway Opelika Score: 100

The Hound 124 Tichenor Ave. Auburn Score: 100

Jersey Mike’s Subs 2336 Tigertown Parkway Opelika Score: 100

Domino’s 1100 S. College St. Auburn Score: 99

Marble Slab Creamery 2340 Tigertown Parkway Opelika Score: 100

Church’s Chicken 1200 Columbus Parkway Opelika Score: 99

Subway 1017 Columbus Parkway Opelika Score: 100

Moe’s Southwest Grill 2574 Enterprise Drive Opelika Score: 99

pelika O Observer

A12 Jan. 22, 2020

First Presbyterian Church Auburn welcomes Brennan Breed, Ph.D., for Leith Lecture Series Special to the Opelika Observer First Presbyterian Church of Auburn, located at 143 East Thach Ave., will host the 2020 John Haddon Leith Lecture Series on Feb. 8 at 6:30 p.m. and Feb. 9 at 4 p.m.

This year’s featured speaker is Dr. Brennan Breed, a liturgical author and associate professor of Old Testament at Columbia Theological Seminary.

The public is invited to attend any and all events.

Besides serving as

an associate professor, Dr. Breed has been published in numerous articles and book chapters as well as his own book, Nomadic Text: A Theory of Biblical Reception History, and as a coauthor of the Old Testament Library commentary on the book of Daniel with Carol Newsom.

Dr. Breed is a graduate of the University of Virginia, Princeton Theological Seminary and Emory University.

His primary research focuses on the reception history of the Bible, which traces

the divergent uses and understandings of biblical texts from their ancient contexts of production to the present day. During the lecture series he will share his wisdom on living prophetically and the challenges it presents in today’s divided world.

The opening lecture to be held on Feb. 8 is titled “Getting Political, Old Testament Style: Moses’ Covenant in its Ancient Context” and Sunday’s closing lecture is “The Story of the Blessing and the Prophetic

Breed Imagination, and Jesus’ Covenant Renewal.” The lectures will be complimented by a

Q&A Session on Feb. 9 at 9:45 a.m. in the chapel followed by the 11 a.m. worship ser-

vice led by Dr. Breed as the guest preacher.

Named for Dr. John Haddon Leith, the Leith Lecture Series is a two-day lecture hosted by FPC Auburn every two years. The series features eminent theologians engaging church and community members in thoughtful discussion and learning.

All Leith Lecture series are free and open to the public. For more information, please contact Rev. Kathy Wolf Reed at 334-8875571.

Trinity United Methodist Church creates Christian counseling ministry to meet community needs

By Morgan Bryce Editor In November, Rev. Sean Rezek and the staff at Trinity United Methodist Church welcomed aboard Greg Smith to help launch a Christian counseling ministry geared toward meeting community needs.

Smith, an Auburn native, attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas and started in the field as a therapist at a psychiatric hospital in the state before working his way into an administrative role. From there, he oversaw psychiatric departments in Alabama and Florida before settling in the Auburn-Opelika area in 2004 and opening the Pastoral Care and

Smith Counseling Center.

As a licensed professional counselor and ordained minister, Smith said his role is unique because many churches do not have someone with clinical training on staff to help church or community members through their challenges.

“My philosophy is that if you’re going to be a pastoral counselor, you need to be trained theologically and clinically. There are two aspects to people - our fallen, human

nature and our spiritual nature,” Smith said.

"Greg will help us be able to bridge that gap between those two areas where people are struggling. If you need to talk to me or somebody on our staff, they're here for you, will pray for you and can offer counsel," Rezek added. "However, I as pastor recognize that there are things not in my wheelhouse that I need to be willing to let go - and that's where Greg comes in."

Initially, Smith said the ministry will focus on helping guide people through whatever struggle they may be facing.

But as time passes, he will look to create support groups for issues affecting larger groups of

patients.

A foundational aspect of the ministry is its honor system form of payment, as Rezek explained.

"It's a sliding fee for those who can afford or want to pay for the service.

Those who do that will put dollars into the ministry to keep it going ... but for those that can't, we won't turn them away due to finances," Rezek said.

"We will take people as they are and I will see anyone that walks through this door," Smith added.

He has already begun seeing clients in recent weeks, and is currently accepting appointments.

For more information or to schedule a visit with Smith, call 334-745-2632. The church is located at 800 2nd Ave.

Special to the Opelika Observer United Methodists from around the Southeast will gather at Clearbranch United Methodist on Jan. 25 from 9 a.m. to noon.

The theme of the day is, “Why the Best Days of Methodism are Ahead of Us!” This gathering of traditionally orthodox

United Methodists will feature Dr. Chris Ritter as the day’s speaker, as well as a panel of Annual Conference delegates from around the southeast. One can register for the event at this link or by going to the “Events” link on the Clearbranch home page.

The church is located at 8051 Glenn Road in Trussville.

OBITUARIES Brenda Powell Pridgen A memorial service for Brenda Powell Pridgen was held Jan. 20, 2020 at First Baptist Church of Opelika. Visitation was at 10 a.m., and the memorial service was at 11 a.m. Dr. Jeff Meyers and Dr. Mike King officiated.

Brenda Powell Pridgen was born August 23, 1943, in Tallassee, Alabama to parents Will Owsley “Doc” and Vonceal Powell and began her heavenly journey, surrounded by her loving family, Jan. 17, 2020.

Brenda was a graduate of Opelika High School and worked as an Interior Decorator with the Home Fashion Center for several years. She felt compelled

to serve others and did so as a Pink Lady, Chairperson and Chaplain’s Assistant of Social Services, Lee County Hospital.

Her passions included coaching her daughter and son’s softball and baseball teams, cooking for her family and friends, and interacting with her Bible Community Study group. Brenda was a devoted wife, daughter, sister, granddaughter, aunt, cousin, friend and an extraordinary mother and grandmother.

Brenda was preceded in death by her grandparents, Harvey and Annie Lou Carmack of Notasulga AL and Decatur and Carrie Powell of Kent AL. She is survived by her loving husband of 58 years Sam Pridgen,

sons Keith (Carol) Pridgen, Scott Pridgen and daughter Karen (Greg), grandchildren; Trace (Annie) Pridgen, Logan Pridgen, Gage Pridgen, Cade Pridgen, and Cole; sisters; Sheila Wilson, Janice Blakeney, numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.

Gratitude is expressed to the following: Dr. Jonathan C. CommanderInternist; The Spencer Cancer Center: Dr. Linda Farmer- Oncologist, Dr. John Cabelka- Radiation Oncologist and staff, JoAnn Broach and staff of the Auburn Diagnostic Center, and the wonderful staff at The Bethany House.

Donations can be made to First Baptist Church, Opelika in lieu of flowers.

Carol Miller Smith Carol Miller Smith of Opelika, Alabama was born to the late Henry and Dorothy Miller on September 9, 1945 and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center surrounded by family on January 18, 2020 at the age of 74.

Carol was a hardworking, selfless, loving, charismatic person who touched the lives of every person she encountered. “Gran,” as she was affectionately called by her grandchildren and great grandchildren, was the most giving, generous, understanding person you would ever meet.

She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Hal Smith; daughters, Melanie (Tommy) Carswell of Opelika; Beth Smith of Opelika; and Louann (Clint) Betts of

LaFayette; grandchildren, Patrick Tousley, Nathan (Lauren) Boulware, Drew Boulware, Trey (Rachel) Carswell, Michael (Christine) Carswell, Alison (Chris) Carswell; and great grandchildren, Emma Betts, Tanslee Boulware, Taylor and Aubree, Ava and Benjamin; sister, Joan (Tom) Marks of Birmingham; and brother David (Lisa) Miller of Auburn, as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at St. Michaels Catholic Church Wednesday, January 22, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. until the Funeral hour at 11:30 a.m.

Flowers will be accepted or donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Opelika, Alabama or your favorite charity.

To have your loved one’s obituary published in the Opelika Observer, email us at: editor@opelikaobserver.com or call 334-749-8003

Opelika

A13

Family & Religion

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I

Jan. 22, 2020

Trust God and put your name on it

f you think about the time you spent in school, nearly everyone would agree that they didn’t look forward to test day. Even if you were good at tests, it wasn’t a day you circled on your calendar and anticipated with eagerness and enthusiasm. And even though the nicest of teachers would try to calm our anxieties by explaining that the test was just a tool to help them gauge how well they were teaching—we knew better. Tests were an intrusion on our childhood (and later young adult) mirthfulness. They were little flashes of reality that told us that what we did mattered, someone was keeping score and we were accountable.

In later years, we would

look back and appreciate this, but not at the time. Tests were simply invasive.

The worst thing that could happen on a test was that you drew a blank. You remembered talking about something in class, studying about it in your test preparation, but when you most needed the information—you drew a blank as big as Texas. The next worst thing also involved a blank. It was something everyone could easily do, but in the anxiety of the moment it might be overlooked.

I’m talking about filling in the blank that asked for your name.

If you left this blank, you were at the mercy of your teacher. Some teachers would write

By Bruce Green Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika

your name in (they knew whose test it was) along with a warning not to do this again. Other teachers might take the graded, unsigned test to class and after passing out all of the signed papers ask, “Who didn’t get their test back?” If it was you, you had to make a public confession by raising your hand and endure the embarrassment of your mistake. That

Calendar of Church Events • Jan. 31 - First Baptist Church of Opelika will host the “True Girl: Pajama Party Tour” on Jan. 31. Designed for quality time for mothers and 7 to 12-year-old daughters, this event will feature an evening full of Bible teaching, games, music and worship. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 334-745-5715 or visit www.fbcopelika.com. The church is located at 301

S. 8th St. in downtown Opelika.

• Feb. 8 - Dr. Brennan Breed, an expert in Old Testament history, will speak at First Presbyterian Church in Auburn’s morning services on Feb. 8.

• Feb. 21 - Lakeview Baptist Church will be hosting the “Near His Heart” dinner on Feb. 21 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

This event is for children with special needs and

their families. For more information, call 334-8877094. The church is located at 1600 E. Glenn Ave. • Feb. 21-22 - Church of the Highlands will host its annual marriage conference at its Auburn campus on Feb. 21 and 22. Couples interested in attending can sign up via www.churchofthehighlands.com. The church is located at 2001 E. Samford Ave.

guaranteed you would never do it again. Or, in the most severe cases, a teacher subtracted points from your test. My older brother turned in a math paper in high school that graded out at 100% but was given a zero because he had forgotten to write his name!

When it comes to our life as a follower of Jesus, writing our name on our test is a mark of growth and maturity.

Tests are a part of life.

Jesus faced them and we will as well. It is important that when we do, we own them. We don’t try to run away from them, pray them away or push them off on other people. We write our name on them. We understand that God’s purpose isn’t to deliver us from them

but to take us through them and we trust Him to do just that.

Peter writes to disciples who are experiencing some tests because of their following of Jesus (4:12-16). One of the first things he tells them is not to underestimate the value of such experiences. Like gold, we are being refined.

But unlike gold, which remains perishable, our refinement creates character that will endure and be rewarded (1:7).

All of this means that we don’t have to have test anxiety. When life hands you a test, you need to trust God and put your name on it.

You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: atasteofgracewithbrucegreen.com.

Verse of the Week “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

Colossians 3:14

First Baptist Church of Opelika to host major conference in April To celebrate its 40th anniversary, International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) members have decided to hold the organization’s annual American conference at First Baptist Church of Opelika on April 17 and 18.

Founded in 1980, the ICEJ was created in “recognition of the biblical significance of all of Jerusalem and its unique connection with the Jewish people.” Forty years later, the organization continues to represent the nation of Israel as well as millions of Christians and churches in the US and around the

globe.

The theme of this year’s conference titled “Prepare the Way” is taken from Isaiah 40, which serves as the organization’s founding scripture. It will feature well-known worship artists and guest speakers.

“The conference will look back to God’s faithfulness in all He has done

for the Jewish people in and through the ministry of ICEJ, while looking forward with excitement at how the Lord will use us all as He fulfills His plans and purposes for Israel,” organizers wrote on the website.

No prices have been set, but registration will open in the coming weeks.

Visit https://us.icej.org/ icej-usa-annual-conference for more event details and information.

LaQuinta at Tiger Town is the preferred conference hotel. Those who plan to stay there are encouraged to call 334-748-9000 and use the code: CGPICE. First Baptist Church is located at 301 S. 8th St.

ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 2312 Center Drive Unit D #758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta #742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy #749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. #749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. #745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy #749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B #7064421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. #444-5148 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave #742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. #745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd #745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. #745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. #745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. #742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr #749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. #887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika

314 S. 9th St. #745-6143 First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. #745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact 709 Avenue E #741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. #703-3333 Friendship Missionary Baptist 432 Maple Avenue #742-0105 Greater Peace Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave. #749-9487 Heritage Baptist Church 1103 Glenn St. #363-8943 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 Liberty Baptist Church 2701 West Point Pkwy #749-9632 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. #745-2905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 #334-745-3600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy #745-5340 Pepperell Baptist Church 2702 2nd Ave. #745-3108 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd #749-2773 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Rd 166 #745-0807 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. #745-3224 Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd #741-7770 BUDDHIST Buddha Heart Village 3170 Sandhill Rd. #821-7238

CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. #749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy #742-9721 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St. #745-5181 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. #745-6015 Church of Christ 2660 Cunningham Drive CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd #749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place #7496432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court #745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. #749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. #745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 Opelika, Ala. 36804 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. #826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. #742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A #745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 #745-0460 Pierce Chapel United Methodist

8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922 Family Life Christian Center

601 S. 7th St. #741-7013 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris Ave. #749-1070 Fellowship Bible Church 2202 Hamilton Rd #749-1445 Ferguson Chapel Church 310 S. 4th St. #745-2913 First Assembly of God Church 510 Simmons St. #749-3722 Garden of Gethsemane Fellowship 915 Old Columbus Rd #745-2686 Grace Heritage Church Opelika #559-0846 Holy Deliverance Church 831 S. Railroad #749-5682 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Living Way Ministries 1100 Old Columbus Rd #749-6241 Move of God Fellowship Church 1119 Old Columbus Rd #741-1006 Connect Church 2900 Waverly Pkwy #749-3916 New Life Christian Center 2051 West Point Pkwy #741-7373 New Life Independent Church 10 Meadowview Estates Trailer 741-9001 Opelika’s First Seventh Day 2011 Columbus Pkwy #737-3222 Power of Praise, Inc. Church 3811 Marvyn Pkwy #745-6136 Shady Grove Christian Church West Point Hwy #745-7770

By Morgan Bryce Editor

Catch ‘On the Mark’ with D. Mark Mitchell and Jeff Sasser weekday mornings from 7-9 a.m.

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pelika Observer O

A14 Jan. 22, 2020

Ally Venable Band bringing modern Texas blues to The Sound Wall on Feb. 26 Special to the Opelika Observer Come on over to the Sound Wall on Feb. 26 to groove to some modern blues by the Texas-based Ally Venable Band.

Venable’s breakout third studio album "Texas Honey" debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Blues Charts. The band

has ignited excitement in the modern blues scene.

As the band's lead guitarist and vocalist, Venable started singing at an early age in church and at 12, picked up a guitar and found her passion.

She has received many awards including the East Texas Music Award in 2014 and 2015 for "Female Guitarist of the Year," and the band has been recognized multiple

times as "Blues Band of the Year" by different music news outlets.

Each of Venable’s band mates are versatile on multiple instruments.

As bassist, Bobby Wallace is a master of his craft and years of experience enhance the band.

Drummer Elijah Owings brings a steady but dynamic sound to the band.

Keyboardist Fernando De Los Santos from

Seville, Spain, brings a classic and energetic style when performing with Venable. They are the backbone of the band's sound and continue to represent the future of the blues.

Tickets cost $15 each and can be purchased via eventbrite.com. For more information, visit thesoundwall.com. The venue is located at 605 Ave. B.

The Ally Venable Band

Community Calendar: Events around town

• Jan. 23 at 7:30 a.m. - Business Over Breakfast • Jan. 29 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Women’s Business Council Sport Series - Football • Feb. 7 - Mayor Gary Fuller’s Mayoral Address, presented by ESG and Point Broadband

Ongoing: • Village Friends/Village Values is a nonprofit organization that supports seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older. For info or to schedule a presentation to your group, call 334-209-4641. For the website, Google “village friends village values.”

• The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR chapter is appealing for sweaters, jackets, trousers, shirts and socks, women’s clothing, soft soap in individual containers, shaving supplies, disposable razors, denture cleanser, toothpaste and toothbrushes, DVDs, games, books and magazines to take to veterans at the CAVHCS in Tuskegee.

The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter regularly visits veterans living in assisted living, the homeless domiciliary and psych (trauma) ward in Tuskegee. Donations are tax deductible and will be much appreciated. Pick up is provided.

Please call Linda Shabo at 887-6659 or at 256307-1449.

Mondays: • The Lee County Voters League meets the first Mondays of the month at

6 p.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church located at 201 S. 4th St. Opelika • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika.

• The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School band room. Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike.

• The Touched by Suicide Support Group meets the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway.

For more information, contact Deborah Owen, EAMC’s director of Psychiatric Services at deborahowen@eamc.org.

• The fourth Monday of each month, a community grief support group meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome.

For more information, call 826-1899 or 5020216.

• T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support

group, meets every Monday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika. For more info contact Mary Johnson, 749-1584.

• The Lee County Commission meets the second and last Mondays of each month at the courthouse beginning at 5 p.m.

• The Commercial Horticulture Extension Team organizes webinars to provide quick updates for producers on various topics of interest. Whether you are interested in the proper way to plant fruit trees or have questions in turf management, these webinars cover a wide range of subjects. Webinars are streamed live via Panopto on the last Monday of every month starting in January and ending in November. During the presentation, participants can send questions via email. The webinars also are recorded and stored in the archive on the Beginning Farmer website.

Webinar topics include: trap cropping for reducing squash insect pests, cowpea curculio updates, nutsedge control, introduction to potting mixes in ornamental

Welcome to downtown Opelika

By Ken Ward Special to the Opelika Observer With more than 10,000 incorporated places in the United States, setting yourself apart as a city can be seen as a challenge.

When one thinks of a successful and memorable place three things come to mind: history, culture and community. Opelika is lucky to have a place where all three shine: our historic

downtown area.

The core of the community, downtown has transformed into a mecca of shops, restaurants and entertainment options that draw thousands from around the nation each year.

From award-winning restaurants to stores selling a wide variety of items, our community is blessed to have a place where small businesses can thrive and succeed in an ever-changing world.

Each week, I plan on showcasing some of the stories of the people, places and events that shape our historic downtown, spreading their message to the entire community. Together, we can help grow and foster success in our ever changing downtown for years to come.

Ward is the executive director of Opelika Main Street, a nonprofit organization dedicated to growing downtown Opelika.

container production, dealing with drought in commercial horticulture crops and many more.

To view the full schedule, please visit www. aces.edu/anr/beginningfarms/webinars.php.

Please send questions during the presentations to Ann Chambliss, thameae@auburn.edu.

For questions regarding the webinar series or for providing suggestions, please email Dr. Ayanava Majumdar at bugdoctor@auburn.edu.

Tuesdays: • Ballroom Dance Classes at the Opelika SportsPlex from 7 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info, call Diane at 749-6320.

• The East Alabama Old Car Club meets every first Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Monarch Estates Clubhouse, located at 1550 East University Drive, Auburn. A program of interest to the old car enthusiast is presented. Car ownership is not required.

• The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m.

Meetings are preceded by non-voting work sessions that typically begin between 6 and 6:45 p.m.

• Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard.

The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6 to 8 p.m. 8685 Alabama Highway 51.

• A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2

p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone dealing with the pain of loss and feeling the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life.

Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved. The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School. For more information, contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-518-9122.

• The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. For more information visit www.auburncap.org or find the organization on Facebook.

• East Alabama Gem & Mineral Society meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m.

Meetings are held at the Covington Rec. Center, located at 213 Carver Ave. in Opelika.

Wednesdays: • The second Wednesday of each month, a Community Grief Support Group meets from 10 to 11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 826-1899 or 502-0216.

• The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts

Bingo every Wednesday at 6 p.m.

• Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 to 8 p.m.

Thursdays: • American Legion Auxiliary Unit 152 meets the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. at Niffer’s Place, 917 S. Railroad Ave. in Opelika.

• The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Support Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@yahoo.com or find them on Facebook.

• Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/ Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes.

The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants. Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 850-212-5364. or cheri. paradice@gmail.com for more information or luncheon location of the month.

• T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends. Call 334528-1076 for more information.

Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.

Upcoming Events • Jan. 25 - AUBURN Chili Fest at the Greystone Mansion • Jan. 26 - Travis Tritt at the Gogue Performing Arts Center • Jan. 29 - The Sound Wall hosting David Jacobs-Strain and Bob Beach • Jan. 31 - John McCutcheon at Sundilla • Feb. 1 - Eighth annual ‘Polar Plunge’ benefitting the Special Olympics of Lee County • Feb. 3 - East Alabama Arts Association hosting Drum Tao at

the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts • Feb. 14 - Grab your partner(s), friends, sister brother, or whoever and help us celebrate love and join Unity Wellness Center this Valentine’s Day for free HIV testing, treats, giveaways and raffle prizes.

Raffle drawings will be at 11a.m. and 3 p.m.

Let us help you ‘Love Responsibly’ this year and learn your HIV status in as little as a minute, pick

up some free condoms and arm yourself with the correct information about HIV. Don’t feel at risk for HIV? Learning the correct information about HIV can help you dispel your own stigma and potentially help someone else who may need it. HIV impacts everyone and we all play a role in ending the unnecessary stigma that surrounds this diagnosis and ultimately, ending the epidemic.

Call 334-749-3593 with any questions.

pelika Observer O

A15 Jan. 22, 2020

Top-10 reasons to try Whole30 T is the season friends, that everyone is talking about “Eating Healthy.”

Including myself.

I’m going to start off honest and say that it has always been a challenge for me to maintain a healthy weight. Even here, I feel odd saying “healthy weight,” what does that even mean? Truth is, it is different for all of us.

We are not all shaped and formed for one mold.

I thoroughly enjoy working out, and being active. But on the food side, I love good food. All of it.

I like to taste. I like to create. I like the smells and all the warm feelings when eating something fantastic. We all know that lots of sugar and bread can have a negative effect on our shape.

But, as I’ve gotten slightly older, and slightly wiser, I’ve also realized what a negative effect food has on my mind and my overall health.

I first brought this little notion to surface the first time I

tried Whole30.

I had been at the beach for a week with my little family, eating all the good stuff one can imagine; seafood, Bloody Mary’s, bologna sandwiches out of a cooler, cold beer and potato chips. May I mention the huge pack of cookies I buy my kids every beach trip? You get the point. I love it all. All this goodness will leave one wanting to hibernate for days when they make it back home.

So feeling all the blahs post-beach, I looked up Whole30 on Google. I learned all the basics in about five minutes and ordered the official book on Amazon.

Thus began my Whole30 journey.

I am now on my 10th Whole30. I love it. I really do. And I have never said that about any sort of nutrition plan or diet.

It is the only plan I have ever gone back to again and again.

And it is the only plan that truly brought me to overall health and wellness.

It is for me. It is not

By Bradley Robertson for everyone. However, I’m going to give you all the fabulous reasons why you should give it a try.

These are all my opinions. There are some Whole30 facts woven in here that will be quite helpful.

They are in no particular order as they each add equal value to my day. So here you go, friends...

Top 10 Reasons to Try Whole30: 1. Whole30 was created to last 30 days, that’s all.

Anyone desiring to get their nutrition in check can try anything for 30 days.

2. You do not have to weigh or measure any food on Whole30. Nothing. I do not have time, nor the patience for all

Rebecca Rice Cell: 334-703-0801 rebecca@johnrice.info

that…

3. The taste and flavor of my food is better than ever. The natural flavors of food are not covered up by sugar or random add-ins. You learn to allow raw foods, herbs and healthy fats to bring out the natural flavors already there, which makes for the most robust flavor at every meal.

4. Whole30 is designed for you to create the best nutrition plan just for you.

Not a plan for your neighbor, not a plan for the model at the gym, not a plan for your husband, Whole30 is designed for individual care.

5. No back-tracking or questioning whether what you ate was “good” or “bad.” Everything on Whole30 is good for you. I drive my mind bananas sometimes thinking over what I ate in a day, like a mental bedtime check list. This end of the day check list drives me crazy. I do not have time for all that. Whole30 = No mental checklist.

6. My energy levels

are at their best on Whole30. I run a business and tend to three kids and a wild husband. I’ve got things to do. I need all the energy I can muster up. The food choices on Whole30 are absolutely meant to give your body all it needs to make each of your days successful.

7. I can snack and eat on-the-go. I’m a pretty busy woman, sometimes I’ve got to get it and go and cook up all the good stuff later. Nuts, fruit or a compliant turkey roll, it’s available and I need that flexibility.

8. Mental Clarity. I’ve got way too much to accomplish in this world. Should I let my nutrition hold me back? No. I need to be at my best and my sharpest.

I need to be on top of things. I’ve got purpose. My mental health has got to be on-point. Whole30 makes me the sharpest and at my best.

Who doesn’t want that?

9. It is 100 times easier to do Whole30 today than when I

first tried it in 2015.

There are so many Whole30 approved and labeled items on the market.

This includes: coffee creamer, salad dressing, bacon, nut-butters, nutrition bars, mayo, the list goes on. It has become almost easy to stick to the Whole30 plan.

10. Tons of Instagram, Google and Facebook resources.

Whole30 are all over the place, making it easily accessible to readers and internet folks.

Hope this inspires anyone wanting a simple, well-rounded nutrition plan.

If I can be of any assistance feel free to reach out to me bradley@passionandtruth. com. I’d love to hear from you! Also follow me on Instagram and Facebook.

Robertson is a local mother, wife and creative. She’s an Auburn University graduate, loves good food and getting outside with her family.

Bradley enjoys feature writing, as well as southern culture and lifestyle writing.

A16 Jan. 22, 2020

pelika Observer O

COMICS

“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.” ― Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

Opelika Schools ports &S Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports

School Board Meeting Schedule • Jan. 28 - Opelika City School Board Meeting - 300 Simmons St. • Feb. 11 - Lee County School Board Meeting - 2410 Society Hill Road

Tim Hudson named Auburn baseball pitching coach

On the Mark

By D. Mark Mitchell

Opelika wrestling splits matches last week

T

he Opelika Wrestling team hosted Park Crossing and Central in varsity action while Opelika Middle Schools wrestled Central in the Mainstreet Gym last week.

The varsity outscored Park Crossing 48-24 in the opening match. The following wrestlers won matches for the Opelika grapplers, T’harra Brunson won the (126 pounds) class with a pin, Logan Sheridan (132 pounds), Keon Brazier (138 pounds) with a pin, Landon Willis (145 pounds), Chris Willett (170 pounds), Ken Felder (182 pounds) and Ben Daughtry (195 pounds) and heavyweight James Dawson won by pin.

Central beat Opelika 48-21 in the second match of the night. The Bulldogs received points from Keon Brazier at 138 pounds with a pin and Chris Willett (170 pounds) won his match. The two consistent winners, Daughtry and Dawson, pinned their opponents for wins.

The OMS wrestling team improved to 19-2 after beating Phenix City 54-34. Picking up wins were Brayden Wilson (119 pounds), Trace Gaither (125 pounds) and AJ Jones in the (205

pounds) weight class.

BASKETBALL The Bulldog basketball teams played at Lafayette and hosted Beauregard last week. The Lady Bulldogs swept the two games, improving their record to 20-5.

OHS blew out the Lafayette Bulldogs in Lafayette 65-44. Four players scored double digits - Haley Sanders led with 17 points, Kaitlyn Bryant and Claire Worth scored 13 points apiece, along with 12 points from Ananda Hughley.

Last Friday, the Lady Bulldogs beat the Beauregard Hornets 66-23 in front of a packed crowd in the Mainstreet Gym. For the second game in a row, four players scored in double digits. Sanders led with 14 points, Ladajah and Ananda scored 11 points apiece and Worth added 10.

The two teams hosted Benjamin Russell Tuesday night in an area game but the results were not complete at press time.

OMS BASKETBALL The OMS seventh grade basketball team improved to 4-2 overall after beating Phenix City and Russell County.

The seventh gradSee Sports, page B3

Special to the Opelika Observer Former Auburn great and 17-year MLB veteran Tim Hudson has been named the volunteer assistant and pitching coach for the Auburn baseball program, head coach Butch Thompson announced last Tuesday.

“Tim has already impacted Auburn baseball, Auburn University and our community enough to last a lifetime,” Thompson said. “But amazing people always seem to have more to give, and that couldn’t be more true for Tim and Kim Hudson.

Hudson “I’ve never been more excited for our current pitchers and future recruits to be able to learn from one of the best competitors of all time,” Thompson added. “I

believe Tim’s experience makes Auburn the premier pitching development experience in amateur baseball. Adding Tim to the mix with Chris Joyner, Anthony

Sandersen and Blake Logan will form an elite group of teachers.”

As a whole, Auburn’s coaching staff has not only made nine trips to the College World Series, but also has a combined 62 years of experience in professional baseball, including 32 years at the major league level.

In two years on The Plains, Hudson turned in the best two-way season in program history and helped lead the team to the College World Series. During the 1997 season, the Columbus, Georgia native posted a 15-2 record with a 2.97 See Hudson, page B3

Attorney General Steve Marshall presents Lee-Scott Academy, Loachapoka High School with 2019 Safe School Awards last week Special to the Opelika Observer Attorney General Steve Marshall presented LeeScott Academy and Loachapoka High School with the Alabama Safe Schools Initiative Attorney General’s 2019 Safe School Award for State Board of Education District 2.

Schools were selected as winners of the Attorney General’s 2019 Safe School Award from each of the eight state school board districts as well as one private school statewide. In addition, three schools were

selected for the Attorney General’s 2019 Safe School Award of Excellence and 61 schools were selected for the Attorney General’s 2019 Certificate of Building a Culture for School Safety.

“The safety of our schoolchildren is a vital matter foremost in all of our minds and hearts, and this year we have enhanced the Alabama Safe Schools Initiative Awards to encourage and honor more of those who have implemented strong programs to protect our students, teachers and other See Marshall, page B4

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Lee County District Attorney Brandon Hughes with Loachapoka Principal Albert Weeden Jr.

pelika Observer O

B2 Jan. 22, 2020

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated turns 100 Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. was founded Jan. 16, 1920, at Howard University, Washington, D.C. The sorority was more than an organization-it was a movement, a belief system that reflected, at its core, the desire to provide true service, to embrace scholarship, to set a standard for sisterly love and to define the noble concept of finer womanhood. This belief has sustained and encouraged Zetas around the world to hold fast to the ideals initiated and developed by its earliest members. On Jan. 16, 2020, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. will celebrate their Centennial year. The city of Opelika’s Mayor, Gary Fuller, signed a proclamation Jan. 16 as Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. Day in Opelika. Pictured with Mayor Fuller are some of the local chapter members of Psi Gamma Zeta. Psi Gamma Zeta chapter has been active in the East Alabama community since 2010.

Trinity Christian School’s boys basketball team claim region title Thursday

By Jason Scott Special to the Opelika Observer On Jan. 13, Trinity Christian School faced off against Central Christian in Sharpsburg, Georgia, falling 73-38. The much quicker Crusaders kept a slight lead the entire game, but the Eagles were able to stay within striking distance. Central’s bench was just too much for Trinity and were able separate from Coach Richard Oliver’s Eagles in the middle of the fourth quarter.

With Clay Odom being out with a knee injury, Trinity had to lean on its bench.

Lane Starling went 2-for-3 at the threepoint line and hit 71% of his free throws to finish with 11 points for the game. Jackson Washburn had seven points while Daniel Adams added six points. After having to move away from the glass because of the absence of Odom, Jaxxon Scott had 14 points for the night with only seven rebounds.

Two days later, Trinity headed to Montgomery to face

the Ezekiel Knights in another non-region slugfest. With a very deep bench, Ezekiel pulled to an early lead, but Oliver’s Eagles were able to square the circle and went into halftime down by one point at the buzzer. Trinity was able to keep up with the Knights up and down the court but were unable to dominate the paint because of Ezekiel’s height advantage. The game went back and forth, never getting more than six points away from either team.

Trinity would not be able to keep up with the powerful bench the whole game, however. In the last three minutes of the game, Trinity pulled ahead again, making it 52-48.

With a couple of critical three pointers for the Knights and even more critical turnovers for the Eagles, Coach Oliver could feel the game getting away from him and had to foul to try to regain possession. Ezekiel nailed their free throws and pulled away with a 67-59 victory.

See Trinity, page B3

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

Photos submitted to the Opelika Observer

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B3 Jan. 22, 2020

Reading and bonding in young children

Beth Pinyerd

I

love to hear the horns of trains blow loud and clear through the crisp morning winter air when they come through Opelika.

While growing up in Opelika, I would hear the train horns and dream of going places I had never been. One way my teachers met this dream was reading books to us young students, taking me to places I had never been before.

I truly looked forward to listening to my teachers read a good book after lunch and then settling down to afternoon lessons.

This story time created

Sports from B1 ers beat Phenix City 35-31 behind 14 points from Malik Autrey.

Antonio Fields and Greg Johnson scored 8 and 7 points respectively. Autry sealed the win, hitting two free throws late in the game. Calvin Hughley led in rebounds and played terrific defense for the Bulldogs. The seventh graders beat Russell County 39-29 behind Malik Autrey’s 13 points. Greg Johnson scored eight points while Jeremiah Daughtry added seven points. OMS traveled to Auburn Tuesday but results were not available.

OCS ATHLETIC SALARIES – SUPPLEMENTS Last week, I started explaining the cost of coaching salaries and supplements for athletics at OMS and OHS. Following is a breakdown of supplements and salaries of coaches.

OHS Athletic Director Mike Pugh makes $30,000 and has no other duties.

The female assistant athletic director receives $4,300. The head football coach receives a $39,759 supplement plus the teaching salary. *Football receives the most supplements and money. The OHS Varsity football team has nine assistant positions at $6,375 each, two assistant positions at $4,200 and one assistant position at $2,675

a special bond between the teacher and class of us young students.

During the winter months, preschool children can become tired and irritable if they have to constantly stay inside. In the preschool classroom, we teachers can share winter themes during circle time, activities, lessons and center time.

But how can parents, grandparents and caregivers encourage young children to enjoy winter? I highly recommend for families to read to their children. I personally love to read winter favorites by wonderful children’s authors who The offensive and defensive coordinators are paid an extra $2,675 each.

Varsity football has supplements for a strength coordinator at $1,625, special teams coordinator $1,075, equipment manager $1,075 and a ticket coordinator at $2,000. The junior varsity head football coach receives $2,675.

The ninth grade head coach receives $4,825.

Three ninth grade assistant coaches make $3,225 each, one assistant coach makes $1,625 and equipment manager receives $500 *Cross Country coach receives a total of $6,375 for girls and boys and one assistant at $2,150. *Volleyball head coach receives $4,250 and three assistants at $1,650 each. * Girls basketball head coach receives $6375, two assistant positions at $3,225 each and a ninth grade head coach at $2,150. *Boys basketball head coach receives $6375, one varsity assistant at $2,675, junior varsity head coach at $2,675 and one ninth grade head coach at $2,150. *Soccer head girls coach receives $6,375, one assistant at $2,150, junior varsity head coach $1,625 and one JV assistant at $1,625 *Soccer boys head coach receives $6,725, one assistant at $1,625 and junior varsity coach at $1,625 *Softball head coach receives $6,375, a varsity volunteer coach at $1,625, junior varsity

capture how to relate the winter theme for young minds.

Librarians at our local libraries are so helpful in making these recommendations. After reading the stories, the students and I then enjoy acting out the stories with simple child-made props in front of the class.

This could definitely become a family project and encourage the enjoyment of reading for your preschooler and the whole family.

After reading favorite stories, children may also love to play charades. The same idea from the classroom can be used at home to provide learning and entertainment.

From the Classroom Observer’s Corner, I would like to share some tips of facts and encouragement of reading with your young children that will benefit your child.

Reading to children enhances their language skills by expanding their vocabulary and knowledge.

1) For babies, toddlers and 2 to 5-yearolds, reading enhances their language skills by head coach and one assistant at $2,150 each, and one assistant at $1,075 *Baseball head coach receives $6375, assistant coach $3,225, junior varsity head coach $2,675 and two assistants at $2,150.

Baseball receives a $1,600 supplement for a field supervisor. *Track head coach boys and girls receive $6,375 each, varsity boy’s assistant head coach $3,750, girls assistant $2,150 and a girls and boys volunteer assistant at $1,625 each. Track has one assistant for girls and boys at $1,075 each and the field supervisor receives $800 *Wrestling head coach receives $6,375, two assistants at $2,150 each *Tennis boys and girls coach receive $3.225 (one person) and one assistant at $1,625 *Golf boys and girls head coach $3,225 (one person) *Cheerleading head coach receives $3,225, basketball cheer coach $3,200, one football and one basketball assistant make $130 each. * Academic Coordinator receives $2,150.

The total amount for OHS coaching supplements and salaries is $327,384.

I will breakdown OMS athletic salaries and supplements next week.

D. Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys State Director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council.

expanding their vocabulary and knowledge of different subjects.

They learn new concepts which they can relate to their environment. It increases their thinking ability, which encourages and supports their readiness skills, as well as their quest for knowledge and learning.

2) Reading to even the youngest of children helps them to focus and concentrate on what you are reading through content and pictures. Because of different ages and stages of development, length of reading times needs to be modified to meet their attention needs.

3) Children love to use their imagination.

Reading a book to them engages them to use their imagination as they relate to each character in the story and what is happening!

Reading and spending time with your preschool children encourages their creativity.

Don’t we all love to see young children lean in to the story and get excited as they predict what will happen next? Children put

Hudson, from B1 ERA and 165 strikeouts while also hitting .396 with 18 home runs and 95 RBI. Hudson led the NCAA in wins while his strikeout total was the highest in the SEC. He went on to be named the 1997 Rotary Smith Award winner, First Team All-America and the SEC Player of the Year.

“I appreciate Coach Thompson for giving me the opportunity to join the great coaching staff at Auburn baseball,” Hudson said.

“I’m thrilled to have the chance to work with these young men and help them build on a successful and memorable 2019 season.”

“There’s no doubt that we have a great pitching staff, and I’ll do my best to get to know each of those

Trinity, from B2 Scott had a great game, scoring 24 points, 18 rebounds and 4 assists. Starling was 4-for-6 behind the arch, ending the game with 15 points. Jackson Washburn added 10 points and Adams had 9 points with Adams and Washburn both pulling down 7 boards each.

Trinity Christian School clinched the GAPPS Division 1A Region 2B Championship last Thursday, defeating their in-town rival The

themselves in the story because they identify with the characters.

This contributes to emotional development and understanding others.

4) One observation that warms this teacher’s heart is to see a child sit down and look through the pages of a book over other activities. Television, video games, computers, smart phones, etc. are all major means of entertainment in our technologically driven era, but a good book can provide your child hours of entertainment and learning.

5) During the winter months, life can get quite busy for families.

Setting aside a few moments each day to spend 1-on-1 time with your children reading a good book can create a special relationship and bond with parents, grandparents or caregiver. Make it a special place and a special time like after a meal, following a winter field trip or bedtime. This special bonding and snuggling time over a good book will become a warm memory for life.

Today is “Library Shelfie Day.” Celebrate this winter day by having your preschool child choose their favorite books to put on a shelf to read and enjoy on a winter day!

Pinyerd has taught young children in the early childhood classroom for 34 years as well as outreaching to the elderly in intergenerational settings. She has taught and outreached in the schools in Opelika and Baldwin County. She holds a master’s degree in early childhood education as well as a bachelor’s degree in family and child development both from Auburn University. Her husband is the late Carl Pinyerd and she has one son, Gus Pinyerd who has taught her so much about learning. The Classroom Observer is here to serve the community in sharing the wonderful teaching programs in our local public schools, private schools and homeschools.

The column is provided to enrich the education of our children, youth, and families. Classroom Observer welcomes educational news, school news, pictures, and events by e-mailing her at donnapinyerd@charter.net

pitchers to help them be as successful as they can be, both on and off the field,” Hudson added. “I’m excited about getting started, and I’m grateful for this chance to rejoin the Auburn baseball family. I can’t wait to put that Auburn uniform on again.”

Following his Auburn career, Hudson was selected by the Oakland Athletics in the sixth round of the 1997 MLB Draft and went on to spend 17 years in the big leagues with Oakland (1999-2004), Atlanta (2005-13) and San Francisco (2014-15). He posted a 222-133 career record with a 3.49 ERA, was a four-time MLB All-Star and won a World Series. Hudson also finished fifth in the Rookie of the Year race in 1999, placed in the top six of Cy Young voting on four occasions and was named the 2010 Comeback Player of the Year with

Atlanta.

Hudson, who was inducted into the Braves Hall of Fame in 2018, ranked ninth in wins, 17th in innings pitched and 30th in wins above replacement among qualified major league pitchers during his time with the club. His .611 win percentage is the third-best mark in Braves history, and he ranks fifth in the organization in wins (113), ERA (3.56), strikeouts (997) and innings pitched (1,573.0). At the time of his Braves Hall of Fame induction, the right-hander was one of only 21 pitchers in MLB history to win at least 200 games, post 2,000 strikeouts and have a .600-or-higher career winning percentage.

Hudson also went on to be inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame as a member of the 50th anniversary class in 2018.

Oaks School 74-58.

Coach Oliver and his Eagles were eager to play at home after two tough road losses. And the Trinity home crowd did not disappoint as the “6th man” for the Eagles came ready to play as well.

Seniors Scott and Starling stole the show in the first half, breaking down the Oaks defense again and again.

Scott had 27 points, 15 rebounds and 2 blocks for the game.

Starling blasted the Oaks at the arch with 18 points and 9 assists.

Coming in hot after halftime, Daniel

Adams scored an unstoppable 8 points in a row taking the ball to the hole from the weak corner.

Adams had 19 points for the game and 4 tips. Ben Livingston hit two critical three pointers, ending the game with eight points. Washburn had a hard time sinking the finding the net, going 2-for-9 shooting but dominated the paint with 13 rebounds and 7 assists. It was a team effort, and that included the Trinity faithful in the stands.

Trinity’s next game is Jan. 21 at The Campus in Peachtree City.

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B4 Jan. 22, 2020

Employee at Opelika Freddy’s location earns company scholarship Special to the Opelika Observer Leading fast-casual restaurant concept Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers announced last week that it has awarded a total of $25,000 to 20 recipients of the Bill Simon Memorial Scholarship, including Kaitlyn Folds of the Opelika Freddy’s location.

The scholarship, founded in 2018 in memoriam of the company’s beloved co-founder and CEO Bill Simon was created to support Freddy’s team members’ pursuit of post-secondary education in college or vocational programs. Through this fund, Freddy’s team members such as Folds are better able to pursue their education, in a testament to Simon’s passion for education and opportunity.

“Freddy’s would not be where it is today without the hard work and positive attitudes of our team

members,” said Ben Simon, president of the Bill Simon Memorial Scholarship Foundation and Vice President of Operations for Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. “Day in and day out, they’re dedicated to delivering a great experience to Freddy’s Guests, and we want to show our appreciation. Bill always had such a passion for personal growth and learning, and we believe this scholarship is a perfect way to honor that.”

The scholarship fund is made possible through generous contributions from franchisees, vendor partners, the corporate office team and community members. This year marks the second year that all Freddy’s team members were welcome to apply for the scholarship. Folds is pursuing higher education at Southern Union State Community College and has been a Freddy’s team member since 2017.

Folds was selected

based on her strong academic record, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience, statement of goals and aspirations. All applicants must be Freddy’s team members in good standing with one year of employment completed (minimum of 750 hours).

Applicants must also be current students or high school seniors who are prospective students in full-time undergraduate study at an accredited two- or four-year college, university or vocationaltechnical school.

The overall award amount will be raised from $25,000 to $50,000 for the 2020 scholarships.

The application for the 2020 scholarship is open now through March 8. For more information about the Bill Simon Memorial Scholarship Program, visit www.freddysusa.com/ scholarship.

Auburn/Opelika Elks Lodge Scholarship established through SUSCC Foundation

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Shondae Brown, director of public relations at Southern Union, received a donation from the Auburn/Opelika Elks Lodge #1834 for the establishment of a scholarship.

Special to the Opelika Observer The Southern Union State Community College Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment of the Auburn/Opelika Elks Lodge #1834 Scholarship.

The scholarship aims to provide educational opportunities to bolster economic and com-

munity vitality and to provide more skilled workers for the East Alabama area.

“Since its founding in 1868, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has always supported their community and the nation’s veterans. In 1951 the Auburn/Opelika Elks Lodge #1834 was chartered and has been serving the

community and local veterans through charitable donations and various activities ever since. We are proud to be joining Southern Union to assure that those who want to go to college have the means to make their dreams come true,” said Exalted Ruler Jeff Massey.

The recipient of the See Scholarship, page B5

Lee County School Board approves bus bid; Loachapoka High wins ‘Safe School Award’

By Will Fairless For the Opelika Observer In their meeting last Tuesday, Lee County School Board members approved two bids for a total of nine school buses and thanked the Lee County Sheriff’s Department for their help in earning Loachapoka High School a Safe School

Marshall, from B1 staff,” Marshall said.

“These schools have developed innovative programs and taken practical, effective steps to combat the threat of violence that has become a terrible part of our modern society. Their dedication and resolve to provide a safe haven for learn-

Award from the Attorney General.

The board approved one bid for eight 72-passenger buses from BusWorx/ Blue Bird in the amount of $676,272 (just more than $80,000 for each of the eight). They also approved a bid for one special needs 54-passenger bus from Southland Transportation Group at $90,901.75.

Later in the meeting,

District 6 Rep. Larry Patterson made a point to mention the Attorney General’s award to Loachapoka High School before the meeting adjourned. Nine schools (one for each of Alabama’s eight school board districts and one private school) were selected for the Safe School Award.

The schools selected “have developed innova-

tive programs and taken practical, effective steps to combat the threat of violence,” Attorney General Steve Marshall said. He added, when presenting the award to Loachapoka High School, that it was selected because of its excellent crisis plans, monthly fire safety plans and mobile safety classroom truck, among other things.

ing is an inspiration to us all.”

“The Attorney General’s Office is proud that Loachapoka High School was selected as one of the winning schools in Alabama for 2019. In making this decision, judges noted many things that distinguished Loachapoka High School: its excellent crisis plans, very strong SRO program, monthly fire safety plans, visitor

buzz-in system, mobile safety classroom truck, outstanding mentoring initiatives and strong emergency operating plans,” Marshall said at the Loachapoka presentation last week.

For the Attorney General’s 2019 Safe School Award of Excellence, one public school with the top overall score was selected from the North, Central and South regions of Alabama.

Attorney General Marshall will visit each school to present the award in person. LeeScott was the private school category winner and Loachapoka was selected from District 3.

Winners were selected by a panel of independent judges who reviewed submissions from a total of 124 schools. Visit www. alabamaag.gov to view the full list of winners.

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night or out-of-state field trips that are to take place in January, February and March and -approved the financial report and cash reconciliation for the month of November.

The Lee County School Board meets once a month at 2410 Society Hill Road in Opelika. Their next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 11.

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In other business, the board: -approved minutes for the board’s meeting of Dec. 10, 2019 -heard a community speaker from West Smiths Station Elementary School, Correen Long, who thanked the board for covering the expenses of a field trip to the US Space Center in Huntsville -approved seven over-

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“This project was supported by Subgrant #16-VA-VS-076 awarded by the Law Enforcement / Traffic Safety Division of ADECA and the U.S. Department of Justice.” The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or grant-making component.”

LET US WORK FOR YOU.

pelika O Observer

B5 Jan. 22, 2020

Opelika wrestling team splits matches last week

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Jacksonville State University announces graduates Special to the Opelika Observer Nearly 600 students received undergraduate and graduate degrees from Jacksonville State University as part of the fall 2019 commencement. Graduates included: • Cynthia Atcherson of Auburn, BSN in nursing • Chandler Campbell of

Opelika, BS in sports management and recreational studies • Cynthia Heidepriem of Auburn, BSN in nursing • Ethan Knight of Opelika, BS in exercise science/wellness • Abbygail Owen of Auburn, BA in communication • Makalyn Roberson of Smiths, BS in criminal justice

About Jacksonville State University: Founded in 1883 as a state teachers college, Jacksonville State University has grown from humble beginnings into the Alabama regional university with the highest percentage of accredited programs. Located in the Appalachian foothills midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, JSU offers

more than 150 courses of study, including over 40 online programs, at the undergraduate and graduate level.

To learn more, visit www. jsu.edu, call 1-800-231JAX1 or e-mail jaxfacts@ jsu.edu.

Beauregard native Camden Swatts crowned ‘Miss JSU 2020’ last week; will represent university at ‘Miss Alabama’ pageant in June

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer

Special to the Opelika Observer Nursing major Camden Swatts of Opelika was crowned Miss JSU 2020 during the annual pageant held at Leone Cole Auditorium on Jan. 10. She will represent the university at the

Scholarship, from B4 scholarship must have completed two semesters at SUSCC with a minimum of a 2.5 GPA. Preference will be given to veterans and Legacy

Miss Alabama pageant this June. First runnerup went to Briana Caudle, a psychology and criminal justice double major from Huntsville.

“I am so thankful for the opportunity to serve and represent the university and people I love so much,” Swatts

said. “God’s timing and plan are perfect, and I know he will continue to guide me through every step of this journey.”

This is not the first time Swatts has worn the Miss JSU sash. She also won the pageant in 2017, going on to place

Elks (if your parent, grandparent or sibling is/was an Elk). Proper military or Elk Lodge membership documentation is required.

“The Southern Union Foundation is honored to be partnering with such a communityminded organization

as the Auburn/Opelika ELKS Lodge. It is our vision to ensure that no student who passes through our doors is hindered in obtaining an education due to financial hardship. This scholarship helps make major strides toward that goal,” said Shon-

in the Top 12 in her first appearance at Miss Alabama. As Miss AuburnOpelika in 2018, she won fourth runner-up at Miss Alabama and the swimsuit preliminary competition.

At Miss JSU on Friday night, Swatts won the talent portion of the competition for her jazz dance performance to “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” by The Temptations. Her platform is Care for Cadets, through which she plans to engage the community in expressing gratitude to service men and women.

Swatts has served as a JSU Ambassador, is a member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority and was elected to Homecoming Court 2018.

She has been inducted into Phi Kappa Phi honor society and has made the Honor’s List

several times.

JSU senior Darby Angle took her final walk as Miss JSU 2019 during the pageant and performed her crowdpleasing talent from Miss Alabama one last time - a humorous tap routine to Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5.” It was announced at the pageant that she and parents Marc and Mary Angle, JSU alums, have established an “Act of Kindness” scholarship to be awarded to a special Miss JSU contestant beginning in 2021.

The pageant was emceed by Miss JSU 2011 Whitney Curtis Wolf, who earned a BA in music education in 2013. She resides in Birmingham, where she works as acquisitions editor for Kendall Hunt Publishing Company.

Former Miss JSUs Amber Reid Reynolds

(2002), Beth Milam Sewell (2012) and Lauren Reaves (2018) were in attendance to show their support.

The pageant is directed

by Dean of Students Office personnel Cody Beck, coordinator of student activities, and graduate assistant Kendal Garrett.

JSU women have a long history of success on the pageant stage.

Seven Miss Alabamas attended JSU, including Miss America 1995 Heather Whitestone McCallum and 1979’s first runner-up and current JSU voice instructor Teresa Cheatham Crosby. Other Miss Alabamas who hailed from JSU include Ceil Jenkins Snow, 1971; Jane Rice Holloway, 1973; Julie Houston Elmer, 1977; Tammy Little Haynes, 1984 and Jamie Langley, 2007.

dae Brown, Southern Union’s director of public relations.

The Southern Union Foundation is a nonprofit 501c3 organization that was established to support and foster the educational and service programs and activities of SUSCC. The

Foundation increases educational access for students through financial support and enables the college to initiate innovative projects to enhance the quality of education.

Funds will be available to award for fall semester. Applications

can be found by visiting the Foundation page on the community college’s website, www. suscc.edu.

For more information on this scholarship or giving opportunities, contact Brown at 256395-2211, ext. 5145 or sbrown@suscc.edu.

B6 Jan. 22, 2019

pelika Observer O

Opelika High School’s varsity basketball teams sweep Beauregard last week at home

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2020

Inside the Statehouse Smiths Station City Council establish

The ‘First District’ has had outstanding congressmen

C

urrent First District Congressman Bradley Byrne is leaving his safe congressional seat to take a shot at the U.S. Senate this year.

The Mobile First Congressional District has had quite a legacy during the last century. Alabama’s First District has always been primarily made up of Mobile County.

Historically, the rural southwest Alabama counties north of Mobile have been a part of the First.

Washington, Clarke, Monroe and Escambia do not amount to much of the population. Baldwin and Mobile, which are now essentially one county, have been tied together for the last few decades, and they comprise most of the district.

In July 1935, the legendary and colorful Frank Boykin became the congressman. He stayed in the first seat for 28 years.

Boykin was a colorful, earthy fellow. He had little formal education, but had made a lot of money in the lumber and turpentine business prior to going to Congress in 1936, and was reelected 12 times.

Boykin owned a hunting lodge in rural Washington County.

He had a legendary hunting weekend retreat. Invitations to the retreat were coveted among members of Congress. The Speaker of the

By Steve Flowers House would come every year, along with most of the leadership.

One of the best pictures I have ever seen was taken with Boykin, who was about 5-feet, 2-inches beside Gov. “Big” Jim Folsom who was about 6-feet, 9-inches.

It was at the Boykin lodge. Both were obviously inebriated, especially “Big Jim.” Boykin was famous for his favorite phrase, “Everything is made for love.”

John Tyson, Sr. served briefly after Frank Boykin lost out in a special statewide, last-man-out election. Tyson’s successor was one of Alabama’s great congressmen, Jack Edwards. Edwards was more dignified than Boykin. However, they both served the First District well.

Jack Edwards was born in Birmingham. He was student body president at the University of Alabama and got his law degree from Alabama.

He began his law practice in Mobile.

Shortly thereafter, at age 36, he was elected

to Congress in 1964.

During his 28-year tenure in the House, with the addition of Baldwin County, the First District became one of the most Republican districts in the South. Edwards was reelected nine times. He chose to leave after 20 years.

Sonny Callahan succeeded Jack Edwards and stayed in the First District seat 18 years. Like Edwards, he was helped in his first election by the top of the presidential ticket. Popular President Ronald Reagan carried Alabama overwhelmingly and had strong coattails.

Callahan was also buoyed by Edwards’ endorsement and the addition of Baldwin County to the First.

Callahan was born in Mobile to a large Irish-Catholic family.

He attended Mobile public schools. Although, like Boykin, he never graduated college and was successful in business.

Along with being a popular state senator, he owned a trucking and warehouse business. He was serving in the state senate when he went to Congress in 1985.

Edwards and Sonny Callahan were known for excellent constituent relations.

Therefore, it was apropos for the man responsible for their constituent service to follow them into the First District seat.

See Flowers, page B11

polling hours, qualifying fees for August’s municipal elections

By Morgan Bryce Editor Smiths Station City Council members voted to finalize protocols for the city’s municipal set to take place this August.

As in previous election years, Smiths Station residents will be able to cast their ballots from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time at the Ruritan Club building located at 2000 Lee Road 430.

Mayor F.L. “Bubba”

Copeland said the 2024 voting place will probably take place at a proposed tornado shelter that will be located behind the Smiths Station Government Center.

The council also approved a $50 qualifying fee for candidates. By state mandate, the qualifying period will last from July 7 to 21.

Alongside Officers Fox and Tompkins from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Co-

peland read a proclamation recognizing January as “Human Trafficking Awareness Month,” stating that the issue is much broader than people may realize.

“There are cases of this happening in our area and all around us. Hopefully, proclamations like this will help increase that necessary awareness among our citizens, awareness that may save someone’s life,” See Council, page B11

City of Smiths Station to hold 18th annual ‘MLK Service Day and City-Wide Cleanup’ Jan. 25 Special to the Opelika Observer The City of Smiths Station will honor the legacy and service of Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. through its annual “MLK Citywide Clean-Up Day” on Jan. 25. This initiative is open to Smiths Station residents of all ages.

Prior to the cleanup, which begins at 9 a.m.

Eastern time, Council Place 2 Member and Mayor Pro Tem Morris Jackson will hold a short welcome to kick off the day’s festivities.

Afterward, groups

NOW OPEN

will be formed and split up to clean roadsides within the city limits. All necessary supplies will be provided. The event will end at approximately noon, and all volunteers will be welcomed back to the Smiths Station Government Center for lunch.

“This is an event that we look forward to every year. It not only gives us a chance to clean and enhance our city’s roadways, but it allows us to honor and acknowledge the impact that Dr. King has had not only on the African American commu-

nity, but on our city, state and country as a whole,” said Mayor F.L. “Bubba” Copeland.

Volunteers are needed! Those interested may register by calling the city’s University Intern Taylor Verboswki at 334-560-6038.

Media are invited to attend and cover this event. Contact City of Smiths Station Communications Director Lisa Deason 706-6817091 for more information.

The Smiths Station Government Center is located at 2336 Lee Road 430 in downtown Smiths Station.

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

Tickets available now!

334.844.TIXS (8497) GOGUECENTER.AUBURN.EDU

pelika O Observer

B9 Jan. 22, 2020

Jeff Sessions spoke on run for US Senate at Opelika Rotary Club meeting last week

By Morgan Bryce Editor With the March 3 primaries looming, former US Attorney General Jeff Sessions made a campaign stop in East Alabama last week to speak to members of the Opelika Rotary Club.

One of Alabama’s two state senators from 1997 to 2017, Sessions most recently served as the US Attorney General under President Donald Trump.

Based on current polling, Sessions is one of the leading candidates to secure the Republican nomination and vie for the Senate seat currently occupied by Democrat Doug Jones.

Following an introduction by Opelika City Administrator Joey Motley, Sessions started the discussion by sharing about his connections to the area and

longtime friendships with local dignitaries including Mayor Gary Fuller and Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones.

“There’s going to be a lot of Republican votes cast in this area,” Sessions said. “It’s doing so well economically, Auburn University is just this engine of strength financially, but there are a lot of other things out there. A lot of businesses attracting real growth … Auburn and Opelika have become a key part of Alabama."

Since resigning from his post as US Attorney General on Nov. 7, 2018, Sessions said “a lot of thought and prayer” and desire to help fellow Alabamians led him to enter the race.

Sessions did not shy away from his continued support of President Trump despite the rocky end to their political

relationship. He praised the president’s accomplishments, including the appointments of numerous conservative judges across the country and economic growth.

“He’s honored a lot of what he promised to do to an extraordinary degree. The economy is moving well and we’re just now beginning to see real progress at the border (with wall construction and security),” Sessions said.

If elected, Sessions said he would like to continue helping President Trump check items off his agenda.

Following his talk, Sessions fielded questions from the audience, touching on a number of topics ranging from education and Second Amendment rights to the recent US takedown of Iran’s

Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer

military leader Qasem Soleimani and why most politicians are avoiding conversations of working to lower the national debt.

“People don’t want to talk about it because it’s very hard to deal with and

(could) cause some very tough decisions to be made ... and that’s people in both parties,” Sessions said.

Before leaving, Sessions thanked the crowd and asked them to “humbly consider voting for him”

in advance of the coming election season.

“Thank you for allowing me to serve. I’ll do my best to be worthy of the confidence if you allow me to return,” Sessions said.

Report from Mike Rogers:

Rogers issues a statement on The situation with Iran and democrats Articles of Impeachment vote

I

n this new year and decade, the world remains a very dangerous place.

Recently, President Donald Trump had the opportunity to take out a very bad actor who wished harm on Americans and was responsible for the deaths of 600 U.S. soldiers.

In Baghdad, Qassem Soleimani, an Iranian commander, was killed by some of our brave men and women serving in uniform.

A known terrorist is now eliminated, and I strongly stand with President Trump on his bold and decisive actions.

But Democrats have been quick to rush to Iran’s defense. Can you believe that?

Because Democrats are so blinded by their complete hatred for President Trump, they cannot even acknowledge the death of

this terrorist was done in the interest of the United States’ national security.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi even brought a war powers resolution to the House Floor in an attempt to tie the hands of our president.

As a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee and the Ranking Member on the Committee on Homeland Security, I strongly opposed this blatantly politically-driven move.

Making it harder for any president to keep our homeland and citizens safe is irresponsible and just plain dangerous.

As I said in my speech last week on the House Floor, “This resolution maligns our President, undermines our national security and makes a martyr of a man who killed nearly 600 Americans.”

Democrats can’t bring themselves to acknowledge that President Trump

was right to take out Soleimani or support the Iranian citizens protesting for their freedom. Instead, they continue their attempted coup in the form of the sham impeachment process.

President Trump’s record of accomplishments is clear and irrefutable.

Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi and Democrats just can’t put America first.

Please sign up for my e-Newsletter and the Rogers’ Roundup by visiting my recently launched new custom website at: www. mikerogers.house.gov.

To stay up to date, follow any or all of my social platforms as well.

You can like my Facebook page at facebook. com/CongressmanMikeDRogers, follow me on Twitter and Instagram using the handle @RepMikeRogersAL and subscribe to my YouTube page by visiting youtube.com/MikeRogersAL03.

C

ongressman Mike Rogers made the following remarks today after the vote on the House Floor on the articles of impeachment.

“Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats continue to be obsessed with trying to undo the 2016 election.

Pelosi’s sham of a witch hunt is baseless, useless and downright shame-

ful. Meanwhile, President Trump continues to put America first with the best economy in generations, historic low unemployment, rebuilding our military, a record number of conservative federal judges and fixing terrible trade deals. His list of accomplishments for America goes on and on.

Hopefully, one

day Democrats will come to grips with the fact that Donald Trump is the President of the United States and join in the effort to make America great,” Rogers said.

Rogers serves as Ranking Member on the Committee on Homeland Security and a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee.

LEE COUNTY VOTERS LEAGUE Invitation to the public

The Lee County Voters League will host an open house on Feb. 3 at 6 p.m. to kick off their 2020 membership recruitment drive.

There will be "A History of the Voter's League" presentation honouring George Bandy Sr., and refreshments will be served.

The March 2 meeting will address voter's education and a ‘Call for Action’ with Ms. Kynesha Brown giving a presentation on the process of record expungement to restore voting rights.

Meetings are held at Bethesda Baptist Church which is located at 201 S. 4th St. in Opelika.

CADDY STACKS

Tickets available at https://bit.ly/2SYCE12

pelika O Observer

B10 Jan. 22, 2020

Alabamians requesting changes to state’s pending medical cannabis program legislation Special to the Opelika Observer Patients and citizens of Alabama ask that the following language in the current draft of the medical cannabis program legislation be changed. Overall, this bill is a good starting place, however, there are a few concerns.

This includes but is not limited to: -There is no requirement to have patients in the Commission.

(20-2a-20) Patients are stakeholders are the targets of these poli-

cies, so policy input should be needed when it comes to how they will be regulated.

Regular without representation isn’t optimal or American.

-The THC cap must be removed entirely.

(20-2a-33) The state of Alabama is not a physician, and this oversteps the state’s boundaries. Nearly all the severe conditions, including hospice care, will require significantly more than 75 mg a day. Daily dosing needs to be flexible so the doctor can work

with the patient to find an effective therapy plan.

-The bill need an Implementation date.

(Absent from bill) for patient applications and for patients to have access to services. Right now, the only implementation dates apply to business licensing. There is no clear deadline for the program to be actively servicing patients.

-Add ‘chronic pain’ to the list of qualifying conditions. (20-2a-3) Without this condition, the bill would not

cover severe conditions like veteran’s physical service injuries, traumatic brain injury or autoimmune arthritis diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

-The patient form required under Article 3, section 20-2a-33 provides an overbearing legal liability for the patient. It is too invasive and becomes a liability in child services cases, custody and divorce and more. Unless a medical necessity defense is worked into this bill, this form presents a problem for

patients because they are essentially signing something that admits to breaking federal

law.

For more information, visit www.rampgop.org.

pelika O Observer

Letter to the Editor weakening or repealing regulations that will save us money and improve health. According to the Environmental Integrity Project these actions are impacting rules on clean water, coal plant waste, smog, GHGs from vehicles and power plants, methane pollution and more.

Unlike the U.S. government, according to the Associated Press, the European Union announced planned investments of $1.1 trillion “toward making

Dear Editor:

O

n January 15, NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced the recent decade was the hottest ever recorded, caused largely by burning fossil fuels, which increases greenhouse gases (GHGs) in Earth’s atmosphere, leading to more disasters. While evidence of a global climate crisis increases, some political appointees in Washington are

the EU’s economy more environmentally friendly over the next 10 years.”

Last November, the Wall Street Journal reported the European Investment Bank “would end financing for fossil-fuel energy projects from the end of 2021 onward… as the EU readies for its version of the Green New Deal.” The huge investment firm BlackRock recently joined Climate Action 100+, the world’s largest group of about 370 investors (by assets) which is pressuring com-

panies to act on climate change. Also, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce now supports addressing climate change.

With our government acting negatively, many others in the public and private sectors are acting positively. Please contact your elected representatives, especially those in Washington and Montgomery. Urge them to take positive action.

David Newton Auburn

B11 Jan. 22, 2020

Council, from B7 Copeland said.

In other business, the council: -authorized the city to deem some solid waste accounts uncollectable -authorized Copeland to enter into a contract with Alln, Inc. to handle employee payroll -heard first reading on a planned annexation and pre-zone of property owned by Allyson Patten on Lee Road 293. The coun-

cil will take action on this item at their next meeting on Jan. 28.

The Smiths Station City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, with a work session starting at 5:30 p.m.

E.S.T. followed by the regular meeting at 6 p.m. Their meetings are held within the council chambers of the Smiths Station Government Center, which is located at 2336 Lee Road 430.

For more information, call 334-297-8771 or visit www.smithsstational.gov.

Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill issues statement on voter registration civic participation of all eligible Alabamians is critical to our success as a state.

In order for this to happen, however, we need all eligible U.S. citizens that are residents of the State of Alabama to be registered to vote and to have a government-issued photo ID. Alabamians

Special to the Opelika Observer “This year, Alabamians will have the opportunity to vote in several extremely important elections that will determine their representation at the local, state, and federal level. Voting is fundamental to our representative democ-

Merrill racy, which is why the

Flowers, from B7

Countians Judy Bronner, Kay Ivey and Jeff Sessions.

Bonner was highly respected by his House colleagues. He was Jo Bonner won on a leadership track the seat in 2002. He and was Chairman had been Callahan’s of the House Ethics Chief of Staff. CalCommittee. Jo Bonlahan and Edwards ner is a class act and endorsed Bonner in the epitome of a true his initial primary. southern gentleman.

He was reelected, Bradley Bryne took overwhelmingly, five up the mantle of the times. After 10 years prestigious First Disin Congress, he opted trict four years ago. He to leave Washington. took to Congress like a Congressman Bonner duck to water and has is now Governor Kay done a good job.

Ivey’s Chief of Staff.

See you next week.

Jo Bonner was born Steve Flowers is to be the congressman Alabama’s leading from the First Dispolitical columnist. trict. He was born into HUGE AUCTION His weekly column a family3-DAY steeped inPUBLIC 23rd Annual Farm appears & Construction Equipment Auction on over 60 Wilcox County politith Thursday, January 30 thru newspapers. cal and public service. Alabama 1st 2020 • 8amin He served 16 years His father wasSaturday, probate Feb. 15594 Hwy 431 N • Headland, AL 36345 • Phone: 334-693-2540 the state legislature. judge. He grew up as Day 1: Construction Equipment, Heavy-duty Trailers, Steve may Trucks, be reached the “little brother,” acSupport Equipment, 1-Ton Trucks, Vehicles & Much More at www.steveflowers. and figuratively, Day 2: tually All Types of Farm Equipment, Row Crop us. to fellowField Wilcox Equipment, Equipment, Farm Attachments, Misc. Items

can register to vote by visiting their local board of registrars, on our website ‘AlabamaVotes.gov’ or on the mobile app ‘Vote for Alabama.’

For the March 3 Primary election, the last day to hand-deliver a voter registration form to the board of registrars is Feb. 14, the last day to postmark a

voter registration form is Feb. 15 and the last day to register to vote electronically is by midnight on Feb. 17.

Eligible Alabamians can obtain a free voter photo identification card by visiting their local board of registrars, my office or attending one of our mobile photo ID units in their area! The list

of counties we will soon be visiting can be found on our website “AlabamaVotes. gov.” I encourage the residents of Lee County and surrounding areas to take the time to register to vote and get a photo ID so all who are interested will be able to participate in the electoral process.”

We would like to thank the following businesses for sponsoring one or more of our newspaper boxes and racks around Lee County

• Better Bodies Massage Institute • Interim HomeCare • Opelika Theatre Company • Three Keys Properties, LLC To have your company’s logo placed on a box email us at editor@opelikaobserver.com

Day 3: All Types of Farm Equipment, Row Crop Equipment, Field Equipment, Farm Attachments, Misc. Items

Deanco Auction

www.deancoauction.com

3664 S Oates St., Dothan, AL 36301

Auctioneers: Donnie W Dean, #907, Wes Dean AL# 2519

HUGE 3-DAY PUBLIC AUCTION

23rd Annual Farm & Construction Equipment Auction

Thursday, Jan. 30th thru Saturday, Feb. 1st 2020 • 8am 15594 Hwy 431 N • Headland, AL 36345 • Phone: 334-693-2540

Day 1: Construction Equip., Heavy-duty Trucks, Trailers, Support Equip., 1-Ton Trucks, Vehicles & Much More Day 2: All Types of Farm Equipment, Row Crop Equipment, Field Equipment, Farm Attachments, Misc. Items Day 3: All Types of Farm Equipment, Row Crop Equipment, Field Equipment, Farm Attachments, Misc. Items

Deanco Auction 3664 S Oates St., Dothan, AL 36301

www.deancoauction.com

Auctioneer: Donnie W Dean Lic. #907, Wes Dean Al Lic. #5219

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pelika Observer O

B12 Jan. 22, 2020

Mike Bloomberg 2020 campaign reaches 1,000 employees across 33 states, including Alabama Special to the Opelika Observer Mike Bloomberg 2020 announced his campaign for president in November, and this week he hit a benchmark of hiring 1,000 staff members across 33 states.

"In seven short weeks, our campaign now has over 700 staff on the ground in every Super Tuesday state and even some territories, like the Virgin Islands. Our campaign is building the most robust national organization and infrastructure to beat Donald Trump,

where we will compete everywhere and take our case directly to voters across the country with person-to-person conversations," said Dan Kanninen, Mike Bloomberg 2020 States Director.

In Alabama, the campaign has grown to 24 hires. A few notable names in the Democratic party have joined the team such as Bradley Davidson. Davidson is on board as a Senior Advisor and will support the campaign’s strategy with the national campaign headquarters in New York City and across the

state. Before joining the Mike Bloomberg 2020 team, Davidson served in a variety of political roles in Alabama including numerous campaigns and stints as Executive Director of the Alabama Democratic Party and Empower Alabama.

"I had no plans to be involved in a presidential campaign this cycle, but when Mike Bloomberg's team called and laid out the unprecedented commitment Mike has made to building our party and supporting the Democratic nominee--even if it isn't him--I couldn't stay

on the sidelines. I believe President Trump must be defeated and I think Mike will get it done," Davidson said.

On board as the Alabama State Director is Terri Sharpley Reynolds.

Reynolds most recently served as Legislative Counsel for the state association representing Alabama's 67 county governments and served as the political director for Congresswoman Sewell's first bid for the 7th congressional district seat in 2010. Terri has extensive political experience at the state and local levels.

Former Alabama local news anchor and 2018 Democratic nominee for Alabama’s 3rd district Mallory Hagan also joined the ranks as the statewide communication director. Hagan ran a highly visible campaign during the 2018 cycle and previously lived in New York City during Mike Bloomberg’s tenure as mayor.

The State Organizing Director Leanne Townsend previously worked as the State Director for Organizing for America and then Obama for America through the

re-election campaign in 2012. From there, Townsend transitioned to Empower Alabama as the State Organizing Director before becoming an organizing consultant, primarily for the Human Rights Campaign's Project One America program in Alabama, Mississippi and Arkansas.

Rounding out the state executive team is Lindsey McAdory, a veteran Alabama political operative with extensive campaign experience communicating directly with Alabama voters, serving now as the See Bloomberg, page B15

pelika O Observer

B13 Jan. 22, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICES STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2020-001 LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF BETTY J. HOLLEY, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said Betty J. Holley, deceased, having been granted to Barbara H. McLain, this 3rd day of January 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Barbara H. McLain, Personal Representative Jeffery A. Hilyer Attorney at Law P.O. Box 30 Opelika, Alabama 36803-0030 334-745-2564 Legal Run 01/08/20, 01/15/20, 01/22/20

STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2020-002 LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF MATTIE LOU AKIN, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said Mattie Lou Akin, deceased, having been granted to James E. Akin, Jr., this 3rd day of January 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Jeffery A. Hilyer Attorney at Law P.O. Box 30 Opelika, Alabama 36803-0030 334-745-2564 Legal Run 01/08/20, 01/15/20, 01/22/20

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARGARET HUDSON TILL, DECEASED CASE No. 2019. C-127 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Eva Till Robertson, on the 31st day of December 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Eva Till Robertson, Executrix Legal Run 01/08/20, 01/15/20, 01/22/20

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Kristen Sharpe, a single woman, originally in favor of Auburn Apartments, LLC, on the 25th day of June, 2018, said mortgage recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama in Mortgages Book 4399 Page 947; the undersigned Auburn Apartments, LLC as Mortgagee under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash, in front of the main entrance of the Courthouse at Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, on February 24, 2020, during the legal hours of sale, all of its right, title, and interest in and to the following described real estate, situated in Lee County, Alabama, to wit: Lot 5, L.C. PARKER SUBDIVISION, according to and as shown by that certain map or plat thereof of record in Town Plat Book 23, at Page 109, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.

Property street address for information purposes: 95 Lee Road 166, Opelika, AL 36804.

THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN “AS IS, WHERE IS” BASIS, WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMP-

TION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process.

An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process.

This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure.

The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit of Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) in certified funds made payable to Huff Smith Law, LLC, at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price must be paid in certified funds by noon of the next business day at the Law Office of Huff Smith Law, LLC at the address indicated below.

Huff Smith Law, LLC reserves the right to award the bid to the next highest bidder should the highest bidder fail to timely tender the total amount due.

The Mortgagee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate.

This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation.

Auburn Apartments, LLC, Mortgagee Brett A. Smith, Esq. HUFF SMITH LAW, LLC 687 North Dean Road, Suite 200 Auburn, AL 36830 Attorney for Mortgagee Legal Run 01/08/20, 01/15/20, 01/22/20

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF SUSANNAH (SUE) DOROTHY YOUNG GODWIN COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 27th day of December, 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claimgs against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Witness my hand, and dated this the 27th day of December, 2019.

ALLEN D. GODWIN Legal Run 01/08/20, 01/15/20, 01/22/20

INVITATION TO BID 20005 Sealed bids for the construction of the New Fire Training Facility shall be received at the Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Monday, February 17, 2020, and then publicly opened and read aloud. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered.

The successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et. seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid. All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work.

A mandatory pre-bid conference is scheduled for 2:00 pm Wednesday, January 22, 2020 prospective bidders. The pre-bid conference will be located inside the City of Opelika Planning Commission Chambers, 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama.

Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Public Works Director located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama at no charge.

The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for

the proposal to be accepted.

A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390.

Attn: New Fire Training Facility LILLIE FINLEY- PURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 01/08/20, 01/15/20, 01/22/20, 01/29/20

INVITATION TO BID 20008 Sealed bids for the construction of the Rocky Brook Culvert R placement shall be received at the Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on January 28, 2020, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered.

At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq.

(1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto.

Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid.

All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work.

Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-705-5450. Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box.

The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/ her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted.

A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Rocky Brook Culvert Replacement LILLIE FINLEY- PURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 01/15/2020 & 01/22/2020

INVITATION TO BID 20009 Sealed bids for the construction of the Columbus Parkway/Intellivest Stormwater Conveyance

shall be received at the Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Tuesday January 28, 2020, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq. (1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

Bidders are required to have a State of Alabama General Contractor’s License with a specialty of “Highways and Streets, Clearing and Grubbing, Earthwork, Erosion, Site Work, Grading or Municipal and Utility”. All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evidence of this license shall be documented on the outside of the sealed bid.

All bidders shall possess all other licenses and/or permits required by applicable law, rule or regulation for the performance of the work.

Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama, and phone number: 334-705-5450. Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box.

The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/ her by the City of Opelika. All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted.

A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390. Attn: Columbus Parkway/Intellivest Stormwater Conveyance LILLIE FINLEY- PURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 01/15/2020 & 01/22/2020

INVITATION TO BID BID# 20010 Sealed bids for the construction of the City-Wide Striping Project shall be received at the Opelika City Hall Conference Room, 204 South Seventh Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2:00 p.m., local time on Tuesday, January 28, 2020, and then publicly opened and read aloud. All interested parties are invited to attend. Only bids from competent general contractors will be considered. At the time of contract award, the successful bidder must be a properly licensed general contractor. No bid will be accepted from anyone except a qualified Contractor licensed by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors.

Principal items of work include but are not limited to: placement of thermoplastic striping, thermoplastic markings, thermoplastic legends, and pavement markers. The Opelika Engineering Department will make every effort to have work located, prioritized, schedule, and grouped in order to optimize the mobilization of the contractor. Work shall begin within 10 days of each “Notice to Proceed”. The total contract length shall not exceed 360 calendar days.

Drawings and Specifications may be examined at the Office of the City Engineer located

at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama. Phone number: 334705-5450 Bid documents may be obtained from the Office of the City Engineer at no charge as an electronic file if the bidder supplies a storage drive or as an email attachment or electronic drop box.

The bidder’s proposal must be submitted on the complete original proposal furnished to him/her by the City of Opelika.

All information in the proposal must be completed by the bidder for the proposal to be accepted.

A Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) percent of the bid amount made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds for the full contract sum will be required of the successful bidder. The right is reserved by the Owner to reject all Bids and to waive irregularities.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803-0390.

Attn: City-Wide Striping Project LILLIE FINLEY- PURCHASING REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA 204 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET (36801) POST OFFICE BOX 390 (36803-0390) OPELIKA, ALABAMA PH: (334) 705-5120 Legal Run 01/15/2020 & 01/22/2020

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF DAVID W. DEAN, Deceased PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Carol S. Dean on the 6th day of January, 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Carol S. Dean Legal Run 01/15/2020, 01/22/2020 & 01/29/2020

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA DOMESTIC RELATIONS DIVISION IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF BRIAN T. CASWELL, Plaintiff, vs. ANGELA LEE CASWELL, Defendant.

CASE NO.: DR-2019900270.00 To: Angela Lee Caswell IN THE FAMILY COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA; FAMILY DIVISION DR-20199000270.00 IN RE: BRIAN T. CASWELL NOTICE OF PETITION FILED AND SERVICE BY PUBLICATION Notice to: Angela Lee Caswell ANGELA LEE CASWELL must answer the Complaint for Divorce in the Family Court of Lee County, Alabama, on August 15, 2019, by the Honorable Zachary D. Alsobrook for the Petitioner Brian T. Caswell within fourteen (14) days from the last date of Publication of this notice or a final judgment may be rendered in Case Number DR-2019-900270.00 in the Family Court of Lee County, Alabama. Answer must be filed at: Lee County Justice Center, 2311 Gateway Drive, Opelika, Alabama 36801.

ATTORNEY: Honorable Zachary D. Alsobrook 114 North 9th Street Opelika, AL 36801 (334) 737.3718 Legal Run 01/22/2020, 01/29/2020, 02/05/2020 & 02/12/2020

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF J. MILES THOMAS, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 10th day of January, 2020, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will

be barred.

KENNETH J. THOMAS Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 01/22/2020, 01/29/2020 & 02/05/2020

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF ROBERT GUY WHATLEY, III a/k/a ROBERT GUY WHATLEY, DECEASED PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION decesed having been granted to Jacob L. Whatley on the 4th day of December 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge ofthe Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given that all persrons having claims against said estate are here by required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Jacob L. Whatley Legal Run 01/22/2020, 01/29/2020 & 02/05/2020

NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2018, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801.

WBAAM3341YFP75955 2000 BMW 323 1G6KD54YX5U235826 - 2005 CADILLAC DEVILLE JNKCA31A3YT102596 - 2000 INFINITY 130 Legal Run 01/22/2020 & 01/29/2020

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals list below at the location indicated.

Extra Space Storage 1242 North Dean Road. Auburn AL, 36830 on 2/12/2020 1:30 PM Jarrett Casaday Unit# 95 1771 Greenwood Road Tallassee, AL,36078 household items Dominique Scott Unit# 334 3127 Woodglynn Dr. Baton Rouge, LA,70814 Couch, boxes, miscellaneous household, and clothing Robert Taylor Shelton Unit# 608 4108 Woodsbury Ct Mobile, AL,36609 2 bedroom apt, dryer, couch Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction.

Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 01/22/2020 & 01/29/2020

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals list below at the location indicated.

Extra Space Storage, 1412 Opelika Road, Auburn AL 36830 on 2/12/2020 2:00 PM Corey Ogletree Unit# O174 387 Webster Rd Lot 83 Auburn, AL,36830 queen bed sectional couch Brandon Payne Unit# 208 551 Harper Ave Auburn, AL,36830 Household furniture and boxes Mark Brumbeloe Unit# 255 194 Winterset Ln Notasulga, AL,36866 Books and boxes Mark Brumbeloe Unit# 256 194 Winterset Ln Notasulga, AL,36866 Books and boxes Larry Harper Unit# 261 4100 Walnut St Lot 89 Opelika, AL,36804 Boxes/bags/furniture etc.

Alicia Nixon Unit# U368 15102 Jennings Ln Bowie, MD,20721 Boxes, small items Clara Kirby Unit# 269 601 Ogletree Rd Auburn, AL,36830 Household furniture and boxes Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction.

Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 01/22/2020 & 01/29/2020

See Notices, page B15

B14 Jan. 22, 2020

pelika O Observer

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pelika Observer O

B15 Jan. 22, 2020

Ward and Brown announce legislation to protect critical infrastructure Special to the Opelika Observer Last week, Sen. Cam Ward (R – Senate District 14) and Rep. Chip Brown (R – House District 105) jointly announced the filing of legislation to enhance the protections of critical infrastructure assets in Alabama. Senate Bill 45 and House Bill 36 aim to amend a 2016 law which defined critical infrastructure in Alabama and created criminal penalties for unauthorized

Notices, from B13 IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF HOUSTON COUNTY STATE OF GEORGIA CASE NO.: 2019-V-120923-L DONA HODGE, Plaintiff VS. REGINALDO VALERIANO AND KASSIE THORPE, Defendants, NOTICE OF SUMMONS-SERVICE BY PUBLICAITON TO: REGINALDO VALERIANO, Defendant named above: You are hereby notified that the above-styled action seeking custody was filed against you in said Court on September 11, 2019, and that by reason of an order for service of summons by publication entered by the court on December 13. 2019 you are hereby commanded and required to file with the clerk of said court and serve upon Attorney Clarence Williams, III, whose address is 1200 Green Street, Warren Robbins, Georgia, 31093, an answer to the complaint within sixty (60) days of the date of the order for service by publication.

If you fail to do so, judgment by default will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the complaint.

WITNESS the Honorable Clerk of Court, this 10th day of January, 2020.

Carolyn V. Sullivan Clerk/Deputy Clerk Superior Court of Houston County WILLIAMS LAW GROUP 1200 Green Street Warner Robins, Georgia 31093 (478) 922-9110/telephone (478) 922-9171/facsimile Legal Run 01/15/2020, 01/22, 01/29 & 02/05/2020

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: CV-2018900343.00 LIVINGSTON EDWIN CHARLES, Plaintiff, V. JENKINS STEPHEN LAMAR, LIVINGSTON WALTER JOSEPH, Defendants NOTICE OF HEARING FOR FINAL SETTLEMENT TAKE NOTICE, that Stephen Lamar Jenkins, Executor of the Estate of Elaine M. Livingston, deceased, has filed with this Court his petition for Final Setttlement of said estate which is being administered in this Court pursuant to previous Orders of the Court.

Hearing is hereby set for Final Settlement of said estate before this Court at 9:00 o’clock A.M. on Febraury 14, 2020 in Courtroom No. 3 of the Lee County Justice Center, 2311 Gateway Drive, Opelika, Alabama.

DONE this 10th day of January, 2020 /s/ HON. JACOB A WALKER III CIRCUIT JUDGE Legal Run 01/15/2020, 01/22/2020 & 01/29/2020

STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2020-011 LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF BARBARA

Bloomberg, from B12 digital director. He is the founder and chief strategist of MacMail

trespassing on such property. The legislation filed today adapts language from a variety of other states’ laws and adds the unauthorized use of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) to the trespassing statute which is a Class A misdemeanor. The legislation also imposes a Class C Felony for individuals who “injure, remove, destroy, break or otherwise interrupt or interfere with the operations of a critical infrastructure asset”

during the commission of unauthorized entry.

“This legislation is an important step in enhancing a bill I sponsored and passed in 2016,” Ward said. “Critical infrastructure assets are the backbone of our quality of life in America and we must do everything we can to have the proper legal protections in place. Damaging critical infrastructure is a serious offense which can lead to significant safety and

environmental hazards as well as disrupt economic activity across the state, region and even the entire country.

With this legislation, we will ensure we continue to provide the necessary protections for our domestic energy security in Alabama. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate on this important issue.”

“Alabama is blessed to be the home of a variety of critical infrastruc-

ture assets across the state. Not only do these assets provide jobs to Alabamians, but they also support our day-to-day lives with the resources we often take for granted. We must continue to be vigilant with our efforts to combat any potential threats to our critical infrastructure both domestically and abroad, and that is why I am pleased to sponsor this legislation.

I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House

to ensure we are leading the way toward protecting one of the very pillars of our society – our critical infrastructure,” Brown said.

“The Energy Institute of Alabama commends Senator Ward and Representative Brown for taking the proactive measure to ensure Alabama’s critical infrastructure assets are protected.

In times of uncertainty, domestically and abroad, measures like this legislation

ELLEN WOODS STROZIER, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said Barbara Ellen Woods Strozier, deceased, having been granted to John Steven Strozier, this 10 th day of January 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

John Steven Strozier, Personal Representative Jeffery A. Hilyer Attorney at Law 334-745-2564 P.O. Box 30 Opelika, Alabama 36803-0030.

Legal Run 01/15, 01/22 & 01/29/2020

that the amended Development Plan be approved.

Section 2. Approval of Amended Development Plan. The amended Development Plan as submitted for review is hereby approved and confirmed as required by Section 8.18(n) of the Zoning Ordinance of the City.

Section 3. Retention of Copies of the Amended Development Plan. Copies of the amended Development Plan shall be maintained in the office of the City Clerk, City Planner, City Engineer, and Building Official and shall be open for public inspection.

Section 4. Repealer. That any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed.

Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption, approval and publication as required by law.

Section 6. Publication. This Ordinance is to be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 21st day of January, 2020. /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 22nd day of January, 2020. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 22nd day of January, 2020. /s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK Legal Run 01/22/2020

(master plan) provides for 190 single-family residential lots and approximately 57 acres of undeveloped open space. The proposed development is located on the eastern side of South Uniroyal Road at 2015 South Uniroyal Road.

Public Notice of this public hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on January 15, 2020, in The Opelika Observer. This notice is given pursuant to Section 11-52-78 Code of Alabama (1975). The City Council reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance.

All interested persons are invited to attend the public hearing and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and the public hearing.

Please contact Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-2083 at least two (2)working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to any disability.

THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 22nd day of January, 2020. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 01/22/2020

thence run South 89° 15’ West for 630 feet, more or less, to said point of beginning; and containing 3.2 acres more or less.

The above-described property contains 3.2 acres more or less and is located on the westerly right-of-way of Dickson Street, Opelika, Alabama.

Section 2. Any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed.

Section 3. This Ordinance shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 21st day of January, 2020. /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 22nd day of January, 2020. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 22nd day of January, 2020. /s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK Legal Run 01/22/2020

requirements of freestanding signs. Revises maximum height and area requirements for freestanding signs in group developments.

Provides standards for interstate signs on non-residential development sites. Adds a new subsection 9.5(18)(e) establishing standards for subdivision identification markers.

3. Amends Section 9.5(19) of the Zoning Ordinance regarding wall signs. Establishes new standards for wall signs.

4. Amends Section 9.10(7) of the Zoning Ordinance regarding sign permit applications.

Revises content of application form.

5. Amends Section 9.10(9) of the Zoning Ordinance regarding design requirements.

Clarifies and updates design requirements and standards.

6. Amends Section 9.12(2) of the Zoning Ordinance regarding luminance/brightness levels.

Revises outdoor lighting standards. Provides the sign’s brightness level will be measured in foot-candles instead of nits.

7. Amends Schedule A to Section 9.12(3) of the Zoning Ordinance entitled “Reduction of Non-Digital Billboards through conversion to, or replacement by Digital Billboards”. Provides a second alternative for minimum trades of existing billboards or legal non-conforming off-site commercial signs constructed prior to the adoption of the current sign regulations. Allows the trade of signs smaller than 225 square feet if the total of all faces exceeds 900 square feet.

Revises standards for the conversion of non-conforming non-digital billboards to new digital billboards.

Ordinance No. 004-20 was introduced by the City Council on January 7, 2020, and adopted on January 21, 2020.

The effective date of the Ordinance is the date of publication of this synopsis. This Ordinance relates to planning and zoning and affects all properties within the city limits of the City of Opelika, Alabama. A copy of the full text of the Ordinance may be obtained from the Office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 204 South 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

This Notice is given in accordance with §11-45-8(b)(2), Code of Alabama (1975) as amended. This Section allows the publication of zoning and planning ordinances in synopsis (summary) form.

THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 22nd day of January, 2020. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 01/22/2020

ORDINANCE NO. 002-20 ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR CANNON GATE PUD BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. FINDINGS. The City Council has determined and hereby finds and declares that the following facts are true and correct: (a) Mae’s Pasture, LLC heretofore submitted to the City a Development Plan for a planned unit development (“PUD”) entitled “Cannon Gate PUD” consisting of approximately 163.77 acres. (b) Pursuant to Ordinance No. 101-07, the City Council approved said Development Plan for Cannon Gate PUD and amended the Official Zoning Map of the City to designate the zoning classification of Planned Unit Development (“PUD”) for approximately 163.77 acres located on the west side of Oakbowery Road and north of Blackhawk Drive. (c) On June 20, 2017, the City Council approved an amended Development Plan for Phase 2 and a portion of Phase 3 of Cannon Gate PUD. (d) Cannon Gate Homeowners Association, Inc., has heretofore submitted to the City a proposed amended Cannon Gate PUD which will convert 6.4 acres of open space to private ownership. (e) The current Development Plan shows 20.1 acres of common area. The proposed amended Development Plan will convert 6.4 acres of common space located in the southeast quadrant of the development to private ownership. The subject property is located adjacent to the west side of Oak Bowery Road and approximately 4.7 acres of the 6.4 acres is unbuildable because it is located in a 100 year floodway or flood plain. (f) The Planning Commission of the City of Opelika heretofore conducted a public hearing on the proposed amended Development Plan. (g) The Planning Commission recommended approval of the amended Development Plan for Cannon Gate PUD. (h) It is advisable and in interest of the City and the public interest

CITY OF OPELIKA SYNOPSIS OF ZONING NOTICE The City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 18, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 204 S. 7th Street, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the Zoning Ordinance and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika by rezoning or redistricting the parcel of land hereinafter described so as to change such parcel from one class of district to another class of district, as follows: From a R-1 District (Rural District) to a Planned Unit Development (PUD), the parcel of land hereinafter described: Parcel B of Kyle S. Drake, Jr., Subdivision according to and as shown by map or plat of said subdivision of record in Plat Book 13, at Page 84, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.

The above property is located at 2015 South Uniroyal Road.

The proposed Ordinance also approves a development plan for the Drakes Landing PUD, subject to certain requirements, conditions and modifications as set forth in Section 2 of the Ordinance. The development plan

ORDINANCE NO. 003-20 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. That Ordinance 12491 entitled “Zoning Ordinance City of Opelika, Alabama”, adopted on September 17, 1991, and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika provided for and referred to therein, as previously amended and/or modified, be and the same is hereby amended by rezoning or redistricting the parcel of land hereinafter in this section described, so as to change such parcel from one class of district to another class of district as follows, to-wit: From a R-3 District (Low Density Residential District) to I-1 District (Institutional District), the parcel of land hereinafter described: Commence at the Southwest corner of Lot 1 Lake Condy Subdivision, according to and as shown by map or plat of said subdivision of record in Town Plat Book 8, at Page 40, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, thence run South 4° 24’ West for 374.6 feet to the point of beginning of the tract or parcel of land herein to be described and conveyed; thence run North 4° 24’ West for 375.6 feet to the Southwest corner of said Lot 1 of said Lake Condy Subdivision; thence run South 64° 47’ East for 683.6 feet to the Southeast corner of Lot 6 of the said Lake Condy Subdivision, then run South 3° 51’ West for 63.5 feet;

Political Advertising and through his firm, Lindsey has been a part of over a dozen successful political campaigns since 2017.

Also joining the group is former field director for Randall Woodfin’s

campaign turned regional field director for Mike Bloomberg 2020 Nakia Browner.

These uniquely experienced staffers are deployed across the Yellowhammer state

alongside 22 additional staff, and the campaign will further expand its footprint with multiple office openings in the near future. Mike said from the beginning that he is going to build the

SYNOPSIS OF ORDINANCE NO. 004-20 OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA, AMENDING SECTIONS 9.5(15), 9.5(18), 9.5(19), 9.10(7), 9.10(9), 9.12(2), 9.12(3) AND SCHEDULE A OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE NOTICE is hereby given that on January 21, 2020, the City Council of the City of Opelika adopted Ordinance No. 004-20.

The purpose of this Ordinance is to amend Sections 9.5(15), 9.5(18), 9.5(19), 9.10(7), 9.10(9), 9.12(2), 9.12(3) and Schedule A of Ordinance Number 124-91 (entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika”) (the “Zoning Ordinance”) relating to “Sign Regulations”.

Ordinance No. 004-20 amends the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika in the following respects: 1. Amends Section 9.5(15) of the Zoning Ordinance regarding Flagpoles and Flags. Allows illumination of the United States Flag. Provides Maximum height and maximum size requirements for in-ground flagpoles.

2. Amends Section 9.5(18) of the Zoning Ordinance regarding freestanding signs. Revises maximum height and area

See Ward, page B16

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pelika O Observer

B16 Jan. 22, 2020

Sen. Doug Jones Op-Ed: reflecting on 2019 and setting goals for 2020 Special to the Opelika Observer Even after New Year’s celebrations have died down, the beginning of the year is a time to reflect on the past and set goals for the year to come. I’m proud of all that we’ve been able to accomplish since I was sworn in to the Senate in January of 2018, but there’s still so much work to be done.

I’m proud that in those two years, more than a dozen of my bipartisan bills have been signed in to law. We’ve passed my legislation to finally end the Military Widow’s Tax, to crack down on robocalls, to provide permanent funding for HBCUs, to simplify the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, shed light on civil rights cold cases,

help farmers recover from bankruptcy, to prevent con artists from stealing tax refunds, to stem the opioid epidemic and to improve rural health – just to name a few.

In an effort to help struggling hospitals across the state stay open, I also teamed up with Senator Richard Shelby and Congresswoman Terri Sewell to change an old Medicare reimbursement rule that had been hurting our hospitals for years. More than a dozen Alabama hospitals have closed since 2011, and a majority of them continue to operate in the red. Fixing this rule will bring millions of dollars back to the state and is a great step to help hospitals gain stable financial footing. However, an even more helpful change would be for Alabama to expand

Medicaid. I am continuing to push Alabama’s leaders to expand Medicaid, and I’ve also introduced federal legislation to incentivize expansion. By doing so, we could extend health coverage to more than 300,000 Alabamians and bring home billions of our federal tax dollars back from Washington.

I’ve successfully fought to bring home federal resources to address issues that affect us every day, like preventing the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease in our deer population in order to preserve Alabama’s hunting traditions. We’ve also secured millions of dollars in grants to help ensure that all Alabamians have access to clean water. From my position on the Senate Armed Services Committee, I helped secure a 3.1% pay

Jones raise for our troops—the largest in a decade—and a new policy of 12 weeks of paid parental leave for federal employees.

This is the kind of bipartisan work I came to the Senate to do – to bring Alabama values to Washington and to fight for the issues that working families care about, like affordable education and access to health care. It may seem

like it’s a very partisan time in Washington and in our country, and in many ways it is. But I hope that Alabamians can look past all the yelling and arguing on cable news these days and know that I’m working to reach across the aisle and get things done.

As I look towards this new year, there’s so much more work to be done.

We’re going to double

down on our efforts to help make lives easier for working families. We’re going to be focused on passing my bills to prevent child abuse and domestic violence and to reduce barriers to adoption. I’m going to keep pushing for state leaders to expand Medicaid and to invest in rural health care. And I’m going to work to pass my legislation to simplify the FAFSA even more in order to make it easier for more young Alabamians to afford higher education.

I’m proud of the work we were able to accomplish together this year, but we’re just getting started!

As we continue our work in the new year, I’d love to hear from you with your ideas, concerns, or feedback. To reach me, please visit jones.senate. gov/contact.

Jeff Sessions’ statement on the ‘Freedom From Religion Foundation’s’ intimidation tactics Special to the Opelika Observer Former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions released the following statement last Tuesday: “The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) is once again trying to intimidate people of faith, this time right here at Reeltown High School in Tallapoosa County. These people want to destroy our religious freedom and have tried to silence me for many years.

Below are links to some of the FFRF attacks on me, none of which have been

Ward, from B15 are a welcome sign from our political leaders who are taking a proactive and logical approach to ensure our domestic energy security,” said Chairman of the Energy Institute of Alabama Seth Hammett.

"Manufacture Alabama is thankful

successful.”

The organization’s statement: - listed Jeff Sessions as a “threat to church/state issues” along with presidential appointees Ben Carson and Nikki Haley in the January/February 2017 issue of Freethought Today.

-criticized Sessions for being a “vocal proponent” of religious liberty on Jan. 9, 2017.

-sent a letter on behalf of “70 reproductive health, rights and justice organizations” opposing the nomination of Jeff Sessions as US Attorney Gen-

eral on Jan. 6, 2017.

-claimed Sessions’ 20 principles to protect religious liberty were a “brazen attempt to pervasively privilege religion over the rights and liberties of all Americans” on Oct. 30,

for the leadership of Senator Ward and Representative Brown in sponsoring this vital piece of legislation. Protecting the state’s critical infrastructure is extremely important to not only our members, but the people of Alabama.

This bill will further provide law enforcement and the Judicial Branch the tools that it will need to deter individuals bent on

destroying private property and disrupting the flow of energy,” said Manufacture Alabama President and CEO George Clark.

“We applaud Senator Ward and Representative Brown for their commitment to protecting our state’s critical infrastructure. Pipelines and other oil and gas infrastructure are instrumental in delivering clean, af-

Sessions

2017.

-sent a letter to Sessions for “using the Bible to justify public policy changes” regarding immigration policies on June 19, 2018.

-stated that Sessions should “stop preaching and harming innocent children” regarding immigration policies on June 20, 2018.

-condemned the religious task force assembled by AG Jeff Sessions for “actively seeking, carefully, thoughtfully and lawfully, to accommodate people of faith” on July 31, 2018.

-attacked Sessions fordable and reliable energy to Alabama’s working families, and this bill provides an important mechanism to deter those who would hope to interrupt our state’s flow of energy and create a potential safety risk to communities, first responders and the environment,” said Alabama Petroleum Council Executive Director Jon Barganier.

for his “haunting vision for religious liberty” and blaming “the crimes of their Christian nationalist supporters on the secular community” on Oct. 31, 2018.

“This is all part of a very fundamental battle that is raging in America, and it is a battle that is no small matter. Increasingly, the hard left in America is becoming militantly secular.

Where they once sought tolerance, they now seek to silence the faithful, and to reject our country’s heritage.

“Shortly after he was elected, President

Trump and I took decisive action in defending people of faith. We ordered the federal government to cease harassing faith-based organizations, we introduced 20 principles instructing the government to protect religious freedom (Federal Law Protections for Religious Liberty, 10/6/2017), and we defended faith based organizations all over the country.

For more information on my views on the importance of defending religious freedom, please see this speech,” Sessions added.

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