Opelika Observer 2-6-19 E-Edition

pelika O Observer

Vol. 11, No. 18

Wednesday, February 06, 2019

Opelika, Alabama

“By local people, for local people.”

FEB. 8TH

‘Firing Pin Shooting Sports’ opens today in new location at 1st Avenue

By Morgan Bryce Editor

The new home of “Firing Pin Shooting Sports” at 2195 1st Ave. is now open for business.

Previously located at 3900 Pepperell Parkway, the Firing Pin’s new space features a 12-lane indoor shooting range and classroom for gun safety courses, two of several

new exciting developments for the business according to owner Charlie Edwards.

“We’re definitely going to beef up on accessories, apparel and range essentials, stuff like ear and eye protection, range bags and more to accommodate our range customers.

There will also be a boost in the handgun selection, (increasing it) by 15 to 18

Fuller

By Michelle Key Publisher Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

percent,” Edwards said.

The idea of having an indoor shooting range has

been one of Edwards’s goals since opening in See Firing Pin, page A11

Taylor Made Designs turns 18

By Morgan Bryce Editor

Downtown Opelika’s Taylor Made Designs will hold a 2-day birthday celebration Feb. 21-22 to commemorate its 18th year in business.

During those two days, the shop will offer customer contests and games, storewide discounts, snacks, refreshments and more in recognition of this milestone, according to owner Taylor Sumrall.

“For those unfamiliar

Taylor Sumrall with us, we like to say that we offer jewelry and more. We’ve become known for our handmade jewelry and ‘Made in Opelika’ collection ...

Alabama’s bicentennial to be commemorated with stamp

there’s also gift items for birthdays and other occasions and we are very much a girly store,” Sumrall said. “Those coming for the first time during this celebration hopefully will have a lot of fun and enjoy the festivities going on during those two days.”

Started in the late 80s

by Sumrall’s mother Lynn Bradakis, the business began with a focus on custom frames before expanding into handcrafted jewelry. During

The U.S. Postal Service celebrates the bicentennial of Alabama statehood with the issuance of the Alabama Statehood Forever

stamp.

The first day of issue will be Feb. 23.

Alabama became the 22nd state in the union on Dec. 14, 1819.

News of the stamp is See Stamp, page A6

the next decade, increased demand prompted the opening of a physical storefront, the space at 120 S. 8th St. that exists today. Sumrall oversees most of the day-to-day operations and Bradakis is still creating the shop’s beloved jewelry.

Other store discounts and specials will be publicized in the coming days.

For more information, like and follow the business’s social media pages or visit www.taylormadeopelika.com.

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce hosted Opelika’s Mayor Gary Fuller last week for a “State of the City” address.

“It’s my honor, duty and pleasure to share with you the State of the City… what we did together last fiscal year and where the city stands now as we move into the new (fiscal) year,” Fuller said.

Economic Growth Opelika continues to see economic growth according to Fuller.

“Over the past five years world class companies in Opelika (like Golden State Foods, Car Tech, Aerocosta, Baxter, Mando and others) have invested more than $700 million and created an additional 710 new good paying jobs,” he said. Almost $32 million dollars

was collected in sales tax during the 2017-18 fiscal year.

The area welcomed two new hotels last year, and also saw a 92-room addition to the Marriott at Grand National.

Currently, there are new developments under planning or construction in several locations throughout Opelika, including Tiger Town, USA TownCenter and Saugahatchee Square.

New Homes Signs of growth often include the construction of new single family homes.

“Last year we permitted more than 250 new homes and with more than 115 single family lots ready for home construction and almost 700 more lots under review or development,” Fuller said.

“There will also be an See Opelika, page A11

Opelika Parks and Recreation brings home three statewide awards Special to the Opelika Observer

Special to the Opelika Observer

Mayor Gary Fuller gives ‘State of the City’ address last week

Opelika Parks and Recreation received three distinct awards at the 2019 Alabama Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA) State Conference.

The three awards included: Innovative Special Event of the Year, Innovative Program of the Year and Professional of the Year in Recreation.

The Opelika Shine Prom received the Innovative Special Event of the Year award. This award honors special events that exemplify exceptional

Index

OPINION.....................................A4 COUNTY NEWS............................A5 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 SPORTS................................B1

innovation in design, presentation and implementation in the park and recreation field.

The Shine Prom is a special night out for teens and adults with special needs to enjoy an unforgettable night of dancing, food, limousines and a red-carpet entrance. The event was inspired by the Tim Tebow Foundation’s “Night to Shine” event, and it is executed by the Opelika SportsPlex, ChicFil-A TigerTown- Opelika and the Hudson Family Foundation. This past year it grew to include 150 guests, requiring about

CALENDAR....................................B3 LEGALS ......................................B4 RELIGION..............................B5 ENTERTAINMENT......................B12

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

400 volunteers to make the event happen.

The Toddler Drive-In Movie received the Innovative Program of the Year award. This award honors programs that

demonstrate exceptional innovation in design, presentation and implementation in the park and recreation field.

See Awards , page A6

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A2 February 06, 2019

TCJA Changes Form 1040 and your 2018 Tax Returns

State taxes are generally unchanged; don’t throw away your receipts

By Justin Smith For the Opelika Observer The sweeping changes from the 2017 Tax Cuts And Jobs Act (TCJA) is only now affecting many taxpayers’ returns. While rates were reduced and some popular benefits like the Child Tax Credit have been expanded, other benefits such as the unreimbursed employee expense deduction and personal exemptions have been eliminated through 2025. The deduction for state and local taxes has been capped at $10,000, and home mortgage interest is capped for debt exceeding $750,000.

Form 1040 received its largest makeover in decades from the Internal Revenue Service. The new shorter form consolidates Forms 1040, 1040A and 1040-EZ into a single document. The IRS created a “building block” approach whereby everyone will use the standard Form 1040, plus six new accompanying schedules as applicable. These schedules contain information that used to be on Form 1040. Despite what you may have heard, the tax code is as complex as ever. Business tax returns (such as those contained on Schedule C for sole proprietors, Form 1065 for Partnerships and Forms 1120/1120S for Corporations) have not changed.

Several key tax items remain in full effect: 1. The Self-Employment tax

Smith rate remains 15.3% to cover Social Security and Medicare taxes 2. The Social Security wage base (earnings on which you pay Social Security taxes) was $128,400 in 2018, rising to $132,900 in 2019 3. Business mileage was 54.5 cents per mile in 2018, rising to 58 cents per mile for 2019.

Because unreimbursed employee expenses have been suspended for 2018-2025, employees can no longer take this deduction on their federal taxes.

4. The Additional Standard Deduction ($1,600 for singles and $1,300 for married filers) remains in place for taxpayers who are blind or over 65.

5. The maximum Earned Income Tax Credit increased to $6,431 for taxpayers with 3 or more qualifying children.

6. IRA contribution limits remained at $5,500 for 2018 with a $1,000 additional catch-up contribution limit for taxpayers over 50.

7. Maximum 401(k) deferrals were $18,500 for 2018 with

a $6,000 additional catch-up contribution limit for taxpayers over 50.

8. Mortgage Insurance Premiums remain deductible for 2018 (Congress typically only extends this deduction annually, so it’s never guaranteed the deduction will continue in the future).

9. The Health Insurance Mandate (sometimes known as the Shared Responsibility Payment or “Obamacare Tax”) remains in effect for 2018, but has been eliminated for 2019.

10. Auburn (1.0%) and Opelika (1.5%) continue to impose an occupational license fee (a city income tax) on wages earned within the city limits.

Keep in mind that despite all the federal changes, state taxes are generally the same as ever.

So, even if you cannot deduct items on your federal tax return that you are accustomed to, they may still be deductible for your state tax returns. With all the changes and updates for this year’s filing season, it’s important to select a tax preparer who is prepared and ready to tackle the changes in the TCJA and provide you with the best result possible.

Justin Smith is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in Opelika, specializing in individual and small business tax and accounting. He can be contacted at 251-209-2579 or Justin@ JSmithCPA.net. His Web site is www.jsmithcpa.net.

Photo by Madison Ogletree/Special to the Opelika Observer

Opelika Observer welcomes new college intern

By Tyler Roush For the Opelika Observer

Auburn’s prominent sports figures.

I grew up in the hallways and classrooms of Carroll Hall at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, with my father working as a journalism professor for the school. His office is and has always been adorned by newspapers, and as a younger kid, I wanted to be the reason someone put a newspaper on their walls.

After finishing my degree at Auburn, I hope to retain a general reporter position at a local newspaper. I am ready to write about anything, and I have been told that I should be prepared to cover crops in the middle of nowhere, Iowa.

My name is Ty Roush, and I’m from Chapel Hill, North Carolina. I am currently a senior at Auburn University as a fourth-generation student majoring in journalism. During my time at the university, I have reported, edited and designed for The Auburn Plainsman, the school’s student-run newspaper.

In just over two years with the paper, I have covered two Iron Bowls, a SEC Championship, a regularseason championship run by the men’s basketball team and have spent plenty of time in interview rooms with

WE KNOW HOW TO GET YOU HOME

BILL PRICE 334.663.1752

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Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Michelle@opelikaobserver.com

Publisher: Michelle Key Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Doug Horn and Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Sports Writer: Rick Lanier

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. Marketing mail postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS permit #205 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801

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CAROL NOLAN 334.703.7515

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A3 February 06, 2019

News from East Alabama Medical Center NEWS Calcium Scoring Promotion – During the month of February, all calcium scans scheduled at Auburn Diagnostic Imaging, a service of EAMC, will cost only $50. Calcium scans are not covered by insurance, and the $50 special is half off of the usual $100 price.

A calcium scan is a noninvasive CT scan that measures

the level of calcium in the heart and determines the risk of having a sudden cardiac event, such as a heart attack.

Previous calcium scoring promotions have encouraged those with heart concerns to be tested, including couples and Sunday school classes.

Some scans resulted in patients being identified as high risk and in need of immediate attention.

About East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC) East Alabama Medical Center is a 340-bed regional referral hospital located in Opelika that serves a sixcounty area. The EAMC organization includes EAMCLanier hospital in Valley; between the two hospitals and their collective service lines, there are about 3,300 employees in the organization. EAMC is Lee County’s second largest employer.

Among the services that EAMC provides are open-heart surgery and cancer

treatment, both of which are highly acclaimed specialties at EAMC. EAMC also operates non-mainstream services, including RehabWorks, HealthPlus Fitness Center, the Diabetes & Nutrition Center, the Wound Treatment Center and the Auburn University Medical Clinic. EAMCLanier has a nursing home, acute rehab unit, detox unit and offers occupational medicine.

For more information, please visit www.eamc.org.

EVENTS • Feb. 6 – EAMC is hosting a media hard hat tour of the new Spencer Cancer Center at 10:30 a.m.

• Feb. 11 – The Rise and Shine Support Group offers education and support for CPAP patients and their spouse or caregivers. The group will meet is in the EAMC Education Center (2027 Pepperell Parkway) from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. and will include speakers and a question and answer session. Food will be provided. Those who wish to attend are asked to call 334-528-2404 to RSVP. Heart Month Events: • Feb. 12 – EAMC is hosting a free 2-hour class full of information on how to keep your heart healthy. The Cardiac Risk Prevention Class: A Smart Start to a Healthy Heart is open to the public

and will take place on Feb. 12 at 10 a.m. in the EAMC Education Center.

• Feb. 21 – People who have had heart surgery or attended cardiac rehab are invited to attend the 19th Annual Heart Patient Reunion and Mended Hearts Support Group at the EAMC Education Center from 1-3 p.m. Their loved ones as well as the

EAMC staff who support and care for these types of patients are also invited to attend. Guest speakers will include a cardiologist and electrophysiologist from Pinnacle Cardiovascular Associates, EAMC’s chief operating officer and EAMC’s vice president of clinical services.

• Feb. 26 – The public

is invited to join physicians and other EAMC health care providers for “Walk with a Doc,” a group walk on the 1-mile EAMC Fitness Trail. Attendees can set their own pace and walk distance.

Walks begin every hour on the hour in the Main Lobby, with the first walk starting at 8 a.m. and the last walk starting at 4 p.m.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Howard Bryan and Tony Dozier spoke at last year’s Heart Patient Reunion.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Last year, Dr. Ricardo Maldonado and Dr. Michael Roberts (center, holding white sign) walked the EAMC Fitness Trail with a group of EAMC employees and other members of the community.

At East Alabama Medical Center, our mission is high quality, compassionate health care, and that statement guides everything we do. We set high standards for customer service, quality, and keeping costs under control. We feel that our patients deserve nothing short of excellence, and we are committed to providing exceptional medical care with respect and compassion.

2000 Pepperell Parkway Opelika, AL 334-749-3411 www.eamc.org

A4 February 06, 2019

Phone Hugs

T

he stars are so bright tonight. Emily kissed me on the cheek as she was leaving and said, “I love you.”

She ran down the stairs towards the car and quickly turned around and said, excitedly, “Mom! Do you see the stars?” It’s Sunday night, and Jody is taking her back to her dad’s for the week. I always dread Sunday nights when she has to leave—especially tonight. It would be nice to lay in the grass and look at the sky together.

Instead of grass-laying and stargazing, I am sitting on my front porch, drinking hot tea and relishing on our weekend. Jody was out of town, so, for the most part, it was just us girls for the weekend. The weather was beautiful, and we took advantage of mother nature’s warm hug she gave Tallapoosa County and the rest of the South. Birds were chirping, the sky was blue and we even spotted some little buds on the trees. We left our coats on the rack in the kitchen and soaked up the sun as we pulled Abigail around in her wagon. We reveled in the warm day and the cool breeze until the sun finally rested her weary head in the western sky.

By Lucy Fuller

We danced, we sang and we laughed. We built a bonfire. We played in and around the barn. We ran with the dogs. We made no plans. We simply just enjoyed each other’s company. That’s something we don’t take advantage of enough. It’s easy to get lost in the world these days. Social media seems to reign over the entire universe, and it’s hard to pry ourselves away from the tight grip it has on our lives.

We did it though. How did we do it? We just walked outside and shut the door.

Yes, it was that simple.

As I sit here and listen to the stillness of the countryside, I notice that the time is 7 o’clock. The clock in the kitchen just told me so with its 7 dings. Emily has only been gone for about 30 minutes, yet it seems like an eternity. I have a hard time with the sudden quiet that her absence brings. She is always asking me questions about makeup, telling me about a

pelika O Opinion

new song that’s popular, or about “that guy” at school that may have a crush on her. (Secretly, I know she is actually the one with the crush. Don’t tell her I said anything.) She has so many wishes and dreams. She has so many questions about life. She is so smart yet so naive to the ways of this cruel world, and it terrifies me. I want to keep her this age forever.

Emily is so beautiful, and like the buds popping up on the trees, she is blossoming and budding in her own way. Though it may be the middle of winter, spring is close. I see it in the changing colors of the leaves outside and I also see it in the sparkle of her eyes and the subtle change in her voice. My little girl is growing up…and so am I. I sometimes wish there was a way to slow down time, but that cruel clock reminds me, with every loud and clear ding, that it cannot be done. I close my eyes and listen for the river, with hopes that it will drown out my thoughts, but I only get lost further and further downstream of my mind.

So this is what it’s like?

Being a mother is not for the faint of heart. The See Fuller, page A6

Overqualified and jobless

L

inda.... listen,

Have you ever heard the expression “do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life because your field isn’t hiring”.. well I feel that in my soul. I went to school, worked hard, and majored in something I love. I graduated almost a year ago, and still haven’t found a job in my field.

I’ve branched out and applied for some other jobs as well, but I’m “overqualified”. This is extremely frustrating. I don’t know what to do! Help me Linda!

Sincerely, Tired of minimum wage Dear Tired of minimum

I

wage, I am sorry to hear that you are having so much trouble in the job market. I wish that I could wave my “Magic Linda Wand” and zap the perfect job right into your lap! Unfortunately I can’t do that but I can try to offer some suggestions.

Take your resume to a specialist and let them see if there is anything that could be tweaked to make sure you are catching the employer’s eye and interest. Make sure you don’t attach the same resume and cover letter to all of the positions in which you are hiring because of the new ATS (Application Tracking System). This system filters resumes based on

target keywords. Employers want to make sure you are truly interested enough in their company and have put enough time into composing an original cover letter and resume just for them.

I wish there was a simple formula to know what your future life path is or should be. It sounds like you know what your passion is and what you want to do so that is a good first step. Since you know what you want to do try applying for jobs that are in the same spectrum that could help you ultimately inch your way to your dream job.

Best of luck to you!

Submit your questions to Linda at Listenlindaopelika@gmail.com

A Love Note

n sharing my heart of gratitude with my readers, it struck me that Valentine’s Day is just around the corner.

Beyond Valentine doilies, cards and Valentine boxes, I want to capture in this column a “Thank You Valentine Card” in sharing the Greatest Generation characteristics.

These are lessons and core values that we can learn and glean from them to not only strengthen our own personal lives but to strengthen our society as a whole. Let’s keep in mind this is the generation that suffered and persevered through the Great Depression. Also, they went on to fight World War II. As I have volunteered and served this group of people with programs, crafts, intergenerational activities, I would like to

By Beth Pinyerd

share some of the characteristics modeled before me on a daily basis.

1. The Greater Generation had a great sense of responsibility: During the Great Depression, children had to grow up fast. From history, we learn they did not have a normal childhood of free play, fun and learning. By the teenage years, many young men and women had to take on adult responsibilities of working to support large families as well as maintaining the home front while both their parents had to work.

Responsibility was truly an honor during this era. We learn to be leaders through seasons of responsibility.

2. Communication through letters and conversations: My elderly friends take time to write letters to their families and friends. During the Christmas holiday, I was so fascinated at how many Christmas cards were sent by my senior friends who are in their 80s and 90s. For some, it was well into hundreds of letters. The commitment of time spent writing letters shows love to the family or friend. No text or emails, but handwritten letters is a way of communication with the elderly population. Having face-to-face conversations from this generation is good for us.

3. Work Ethic: See Pinyerd, page A6

J

Good

acksonville, Florida—a car accident. A crushed car, sideways in the median.

Years ago. She saw the car and pulled over. She jogged toward it. It was instinct. She opened the door. The man wasn’t breathing.

She had been working part-time at a pre-school.

Pre-schools have mandatory CPR certification classes. Only a few days earlier, she had practiced resuscitating dummies in a church fellowship hall.

She pulled the man out of the battered vehicle.

She found his breastbone.

Thirty compressions. Two rescue breaths. He’s alive today. A father of four.

He keeps in touch.

Athens, Georgia 19-year-old Billy didn’t want to get into a fistfight.

He’d never been in a fight before. He saw a younger kid being beaten by two large boys. He couldn’t stay out of it.

Billy, who’d never thrown a punch in his life, pushed himself into the conflict. He fended off the two attackers, but not without being beaten-up.

Billy took the kid to the emergency room. They became fast friends. He brought the kid home to meet his parents. The boy told them he’d been living with his uncle—who neglected him.

Billy’s parents invited the kid live with them.

They fixed the guest bedroom. They bought him a Playstation. They fed him.

They made him one of their own.

When Billy got married, the kid was his best

N

By Sean Dietrich

man. When Billy had his first son, the kid became a godfather.

When the kid wore a cap and gown to receive a diploma, seven people stood and clapped for him.

Hoover, Alabama— Leigh Ann was your classic shut-in. She was too old and feeble to go anywhere. Most days, she sat in a recliner watching her stories on TV. Sometimes she forgot to feed herself.

She had nobody. She’d been lonely ever since her husband passed. Leigh Ann had no children.

One day, a young man who lived on her street noticed the street-address numbers on her house, falling off. He knocked on her front door.

He offered to fix the numbers. A conversation ensued. While they talked, he noticed the paint flaking off her home.

The next day, he dropped in unannounced - with five-gallon paint buckets, three friends, and ladders. They painted all day. That was almost ten years ago.

The young man and Leigh Ann became so close, he referred to her as “Meemaw” sometimes.

He read the eulogy at Meemaw’s final service.

Charlottesville, Virginia—Eliana had cancer.

She was a young woman.

It was a crushing blow.

Two months later, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer.

The next two years were hell. Think: operations, appointments, and treatments. Then multiply that figure times two.

Their kitchen counter looked like a CVS pharmacy.

Eliana lay in a hospital bed; her mother was beside her. Her mother received IV treatments; Eliana was her shadow.

They leaned over toilet bowls together. They shaved their heads at the same time. When their brunette locks hit the bathroom floor they cried until their faces hurt. Her mother prayed each night.

“Take ME, God,” she’d say. “Just let my daughter live.”

Eliana prayed the same thing—only in reverse.

But life doesn’t always go the way you think it will. Today, they are cancer survivors.

So. Dear evening-news journalists: Thank you for stories on nuclear threats, terrorists, mass shootings, sex scandals, and senseless acts of politics.

Thank you for digging up headlines that manage to break hearts and scare the Dickens out of anyone who watches.

But if you should ever find yourself depressed, and hopeless, and without faith in the baeauty of humanity, I know a few people you ought to meet.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and novelist, known for his commentary on life in the American South.

Gee’s Bend

ow I haven’t been to New York City in a long time. And I don’t have any particular urge to go right now. But if I had to go, I think I could survive the trip if while I was there, I could work By Hardy Jackson in a visit to the Whitney later moved there took it Museum if they still had up, just to fit in. the exhibit “The Quilts Soon the white of Gee’s Bend.”

Pettways left and only Gee’s Bend is one of the black Pettways those places you have to remained. They worked be going to, to get there. the land when TuscaLocated in the heart of loosa’s Van De Graaff the Black Belt, hemmed family took over, but in on three sides by the worked it more accordAlabama River and ing to their schedule accessible only by a than that of the owners. road from the west and Fiercely independent a ferry from the east, it they frequently violated is about as isolated as the traditional arrangeyou can be and still be ment where the sharesomewhere. cropper turns his crop Joseph Gee from over to the landlord, North Carolina gave the and instead sold their Bend its name, but it crop and got credit from was Mark H. Pettway, merchants downstream who took over in 1846, in Mobile or across the who named most of river at Camden. By the people who lived 1930 there were around there. With the labor of 100 black tenant famiover 100 slaves Pettway lies living in the Bend. turned the Bend into Except for brief visits “a dukedom in the to town to sell cotton or vast Southern cotsettle debts, they stayed ton empire,” and after in there. It was, accordemancipation the former ing to an observer on the slaves who stayed as scene, “another civilisharecroppers became zation ... an Alabama Pettways. So thoroughly Africa.” was the name associThen tragedy struck. ated with residents of A merchant in Camden the bend that blacks who who held liens on their

personal possessions, passed away and his widow foreclosed. In the fall of 1932 they came, the “white men with pistols on their hips, riding horses, and leading a train of wagons,” which they filled with everything the Bend folk owned. Then they rounded up the cattle, mules, and anything that could flutter or fly and took it away. Residents of the Bend “faced the winter with nothing to eat save a handful of peas, a handful of corn and a handful of peanuts the raiders graciously left.”

But they survived, thanks to hard work, sharing what they had, and with the help of the Red Cross slowly they began to recover. Then, in February of 1937, the federal government arrived. The Farm Security Administration, one of the New Deal’s most active agencies, bought out the white owners and set up an agricultural experiment to be known as “Gee’s Bend Farms.” Under the plan Gee’s Bend residents could buy the land on which modern houses would be built. A cooperative store and cotton gin were opened.

See Jackson, page A6

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Around Lee County

A5 February 06, 2019

Fulfilled wish: former Vietnam Lee County District Attorney’s Office announces hiring of cold case investigator refugee returns to Opelika Special to the Opelika Observer Lee County District Attorney Brandon Hughes announced last week that his office has hired an investigator to focus on open, unsolved homicide cases in Lee County.

“Every city and county in the country has cold homicide cases,” Hughes said, “but very few police agencies have the resources to devote an investigator to concentrate only those older open unsolved homicides.”

Investigator Mark Whitaker comes to the district attorney’s office from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Cold Case Unit. Whitaker brings more than 38 years of local, state and federal law enforcement experience to work in partnership with local police agencies on these cases.

Hughes added that he and Whitaker met during a 15-month investigation into the disappearance of Lori Ann Slesinski.

“My purpose in hiring (Whitaker) is to provide that inves-

tigator who can focus his time and effort solely on cold cases with the belief that this will bring us the best chance of obtaining justice for these victims and their families.

“I continue to look for ways this office can evolve and utilize its resources to address the most critical needs of our community. I believe hiring a dedicated cold case investigator is in direct line with that mission.”

For more information, visit www. leecountyda.org.

Monthly ‘Second Saturday’ event returns to Pioneer Park Special to the Opelika Observer

The groundhog may have seen its shadow on Feb. 2 but the jonquils are blooming at Pioneer Park, a sure sign that spring is not far away. Come out early on the ‘Second Saturday’ Feb 9, and join Dr. Charles Mitchell on a midwinter garden walk ‘n talk at 9 a.m. weather permitting. Subjects may range from camellias blooming in the Heirloom Camellia Garden to getting the kitchen garden ready for early potatoes and peas to pruning those plum trees and muscadine vines. The park’s wild, naturalized daffodils will be blooming like they do each February.

The Textile Room has been given sets of pillow cases which will be available to those who attend the embroidery workshop also at 9 a.m. These cases are stamped with embroidery designs, and each participant

will learn the basic embroidery stitches as they begin work on their cases. What an opportunity to create a family heirloom. Please bring an embroidery hoop, an embroidery needle and scissors. All other supplies will be provided. This class will be taught

by Mary Dulaney, and will be held in the Textile Room, upstairs in the Trade Center Museum. All participants must be 13 years of age or older.

Those who began pine straw baskets last month will continue to work on their creations and will welcome visitors to their group. They call themselves “the basket cases.”

At 1 p.m., the ‘Whistle Stop Pickers’ gather in the Trade Center Museum to practice their old time music. They welcome visitors.

One may be inspired to try a dulcimer, mandolin, or fiddle.

Even if one has never played a musical instrument before, they

will find the mountain dulcimer both fun and satisfying.

The Trade Center Museum and all buildings at Pioneer Park are open to the public on the Second Saturday of each month. Blacksmith’s are working at the forge, the textile center is alive with artisans spinning and weaving home-made fabrics, the gardens are open, and special activities are planned monthly.

Lunch is provided at noon, and someone is always cooking up a traditional Southern lunch in the Cook House based on traditional recipes from years past.

Pioneer Park is a project of the Lee County Historical Society, a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization dedicated to the preservation and presentation of the history of Lee County and East Alabama.

For more information, visit www. leecountyhistoricalsociety.org or like and follow their Facebook page.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Dr. Nhung Thi Tran, who came to Opelika with her family as Vietnamese refugees in 1975, recently visited her sponsors, Dr. Joanne Smith T and Barbara Patton, who was on the board of the Vietnamese Resettlement Fellowship. Dr. Nhung Thi Tran and her husband, who was also a physician, were medical students of Dr. Smith T when she was a missionary in Vietnam. Pictured are, from left Aline Nguyen, daughter of Dr. Nhung Thi Tran; Dr. Joanne Smith T, Minh Doan Nguyen, daughter of Dr. Tran; Dr. Nhung Thi Tran and Barbara Patton.

By Ann Cipperly For the Opelika Observer When Dr. Joanne Smith T was serving as a missionary in Vietnam in the late 60s, she had a small clinic that met in a church and taught medical students at the city hospital in Saigon for three years, becoming close friends with the students. When Vietnam fell, most of the students fled the country.

One of her students, Dr. Nhung Thi Tran, contacted Dr. Smith T to sponsor her family, arriving in Opelika in June 1975.

Dr. Nhung Thi Tran recently returned to Opelika to visit Dr. Smith T and others she knew in the community. On a cold afternoon, Dr. Smith T, Barbara Patton and Nhung met at the Smith T home on North 8 th Street to remember when the Vietnamese family came to Opelika to live.

Nhung’s husband, Dr. Nguyen De, was captured as a Viet Cong prisoner in April 1972. For the next 30 months he was forced to do hard labor, building huts while being moved from camp to camp. He was kept in tunnels and grass huts and forced to

Buying or Selling?

grow his own food.

In 1974, he managed to escape one rainy night by getting into a float and drifting down the river.

After 12 hours in the river, he was discovered by government workers who thought he was deceased. The doctor was so weak that he could not walk and had lost 30 pounds from being in the communist camp.

He managed to return to Saigon to join Nhung and their two children.

As the family planned to leave the country, they were instructed to not tell anyone of their departure, as it would increase their chances of being shot when Saigon fell.

Communist forces had surrounded the Vietnamese capital. In April 1975 the family fled the country with just a small suitcase, as it fell to the communists.

The family boarded a jet at Tan Son Nhut airport and flew to Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines where the refugee process began for them to start their new life. The next day they were flown to Wake Island to another refugee camp.

While at Wake Island, Dr. Nhung Thi Tran wrote Dr. Joanne Smith T, who had been her

friend and instructor at the medical school in Saigon, to ask her to fund them as a sponsoring family once they arrived in the U.S. The family was flown to a refugee camp at Pendleton, California, where they lived in a tent city to wait word of having a sponsor.

Dr. Smith T had a love for the Vietnamese people. She had studied the language and enjoyed teaching her students.

While she was in Saigon, rockets would hit the city, but she didn’t feel she was in danger and continued teaching for three years.

Having a desire to help the family, Dr. Smith T organized a meeting May 15, 1975, at the fellowship hall of the First Presbyterian Church, where local citizens who were concerned for the welfare of the refugees took steps for the sponsorship process and to secure funds for refugee families. The group was named the Vietnamese Resettlement Fellowship.

The group, which included Barbara Patton as an officer, continued to meet at the First Presbyterian Church and Trinity United Methodist Church.

See Sponsors, page A10

The Kiwanis Club of Auburn cordially invites you to a

pancake breakfast to benefit Auburn firefighters, emt’s & their families

Call:

Lisa Thrift (334) 444-8099 “I can get you where you want to be...Home” lthrift1984@gmail.com

www.thedensongroup.com

Feb. 9 from 7-11 a.m.

Auburn United Methodist Church-Epworth Center

$p5erson

137 S. Gay Street, Auburn

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0 $2milies fa

A6 February 06, 2019

Stamps,

from A1 being shared with the hashtags #AlabamaStamp and #Alabama200.

Alabama’s rich history stretches from its earliest inhabitants and settlement by European colonists to its significant role in the civil rights movement and its participation in the nation’s space program. The state was at the center of many important events in the civil rights move-

Awards,

from A1

This program was founded in summer 2017

by Mandy Johnson, event coordinator for Opelika Parks and Recreation. Johnson became inspired when she saw a picture on Pinterest of toddlers watching movies in their backyard while sitting in cars made of cardboard boxes. The event exploded with interest, with more than 50 kids showing up to participate.

“This unique event

pelika O Observer

ment of the 1950s and 1960s, including the 1965 Voting Rights March from Selma to Montgomery, a route now commemorated as a National Historic Trail.

The Alabama Statehood stamp features an existing photograph taken at sunset on May 28, 2017, in Cheaha State Park. Alabama photographer Joe Miller shot the picture from the park’s Pulpit Rock Trail. Art Director William Gicker designed the stamp.

The Alabama Statehood stamp is being issued as a Forever

stamp and will always be equal in value to the current First-Class Mail 1-ounce price.

Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through the Postal Store at usps. com/shop, by calling 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724), by mail through USA Philatelic catalog or at Post Office locations nationwide.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

affords children ages 5-7 in the Auburn/Opelika area the opportunity to be creative,” said Laura Leigh Chesser, public relations coordinator.

“It is really special to witness the feeling of accomplishment and excitement for what they created once their car is complete.”

Johnson also received the Merit in Recreation Award. This award recognizes outstanding leadership and innovation in the area of recreation, athletics, leisure or special event programming and/or instruction.

Since being hired as

Event Coordinator, Johnson introduced several new programs including indoor and outdoor movies and a shopping trunk show.

“Mandy has brought a new level of creativity, innovativeness and organization to Opelika Parks and Recreation that we didn’t have previously,” said Chesser. “Mandy goes above and beyond her call of duty daily, and she works in a way that spreads joy and humor to the others around her.”

For more information, www.opelika-al. gov/341/Parks-Recreation.

Fuller,

from A4 emotional toll it places on your heart is like none other I have ever experienced in my entire 37 years.

Motherhood twists, pulls, crushes, and wrenches your heart like nothing you can imagine as you watch it beat outside of your chest.

It’s incredibly beautiful and painful, yet entirely worth every second.

Is this how my own mother feels day to day?

For 37 years my mama has been through the hurricane of all things girl. I was an only child, and she was a (widowed) single mom. I cannot, and do not, want to imagine what that’s like, although, I do have a very good idea. The amount of worry and stress

Pinyerd,

from A4

The work ethic for the Greater Generation is “keeping your nose to the grindstone!” They took great and deep pride in the work they did. They were very loyal to the company they were working for.

For the population within that, the first company who hired you was the one you retired from. As this generation exemplifies, hard work does pay off.

4. Good stewards and frugal with money and materials: As we see today, this generation were and are prudent in saving money and materials. I remember my own grandparents saved each penny, leftovers with food and we even saved Christmas bows from year to year. How opposite this is with our disposable society which leads to financial stress as a society.

5. Cooking and preparing real food for families and friends: I am a baby boomer. I do vividly remember that we did not have fast-food restaurants in the Opelika-Auburn area till I was at least

Jackson,

from A4

A school, medical clinic, and community center were built and staffed. Everything they could want, it seemed, was provided.

Which was the problem. Gee’s Bend folk didn’t any more like being told what to do by the government than by the planters. They chaffed at restrictions set by the co-op and often did things their own way. Meanwhile postwar Republican Congresses balked at putting more money into the project and by the early 1950s, the experiment had all but been abandoned.

What remained was the community, a tight-knit group of real and fauxPettways who hung on to the land when others left and who, despite their poverty, managed to get by and get along.

she must have felt is even harder to imagine. I know I never made it easy on her. It wasn’t until lately I realized how hard I actually did make it, but she was a trooper through it all and never stopped loving me.

The seasons of life truly took their toll on us, but we are still here to tell and even laugh about (most of) it.

It’s nights like this one where I usually pick up the phone and call mama.

I never really have much of anything to talk about. I usually end up asking her opinion on a design idea or a marketplace find, and in one way or another it always turns into a pep talk.

It’s like she knows when my heart is being squeezed and feeling a bit heavy.

That must be a “seasoned” mom thing, because I don’t have that power yet. I’m truly thankful that she has it, though, because I sure

do need those weekly pep talks. When we hang up the phone I always feel like I’ve gotten a hug from her, and it’s always just what I needed.

I’m still sitting out here on the porch listening to the river and eyeing the stars.

Emily’s little voice echoes in my ear, “Mom, do you see the stars”? I smile to myself as I imagine her calling me one day needing that weekly phone-hug. My little girl is growing up, and it won’t be long before my phone will ring, but I’ll think about that later.

I’ve got a call to make.

Lucy Fuller is a lover of nature, animals, gardening, and old houses. She is a full time mother and wife. She currently resides in Dadeville with her husband, two daughters, 4 dogs, and cat. She may be reached at fullalove2017@ gmail.com.

12 years old. All meals were prepared from scratch and from the garden. We also sat down as a family at home to eat dinner.

6. Play Outside and Pretend Play: The Greater Generation encouraged we children to play outside instead of staying inside to look at television and play video games. This was so good for our bodies and minds.

Playing outside enhances exploration of nature and socialization skills in getting together to play outside with our friends.

Creativity was tops in pretend games. The Greater Generation realized that play was a child’s work.

7. Faithful Commitment: I love to talk to my senior friends who have been married 68 - 72 years. This generation stays together in marriage and family.

When a person from the Greater Generation makes a promise, their word is their bond.

8. Civic and Community minded: The Greater Generation have always been involved in community affairs by participating in community cleanups, supporting local schools, fire departments, police departments, churches, etc. From fun-

draising to joining a civic leadership organization to help their community, the Greater Generation has given us the legacy of community pride.

9. Singing and Dancing Generation: This generation had some wonderful songs that were sung during war times. When I am with my senior friends singing songs during their activity times, they remember every word. This was an era where dating and courting was done through dancing.

I love to see this generation dancing at social activities because they know how to have fun and their enthusiasm for living is contagious.

10. Buy American: Because this generation has been through the Great Depression as well as World War II, they are so very patriotic to their country in buying American. From cars to clothes, they support the American cause!

I end this article by thanking you readers who know that you are a part of The Greater Generation!

You have worked so hard to give us a better world in which we need to embody you legacy. Your actions and words are truly a life lesson.

So, what does this have to do with quilts?

Well, in the 1960s Gee’s Bend was rediscovered. When the Civil Rights struggle came to the Black Belt the Bend, with its African-American population, was a haven for Movement members, white and black. And some who came in winter snuggled under quilts Gees Bend women had been making for decades to keep off the river bottom chill.

Struck by their beauty and originality, some of the visitors bought a few and took them back to north where they were recognized as important works of folk art.

So, for a little while at least, the Bend became famous. Quilts you once could buy for a few dollars were sought by collectors willing to pay hundreds, even thousands.

Some of the finest museums in the nation added them to their collection, meanwhile just outside

the Bend local women set up the Freedom Quilting Bee to make and market their product. For a while it prospered, and somewhere in my files I have a picture of quilts, hanging on a line, airing out on a spring day. I could have bought one then for $250.

I wish I had.

For years I passed by the Bee when I drove to South Alabama, but there hasn’t been any activity recently. Maybe they are closed up for the winter.

I hope that is it. For it would be a shame if the tradition has died and all we have left is what hangs in museums.

But at least we have that, and though I would not travel to New York to just to see the exhibit - or do much else for that matter -- I feel good just knowing it is there.

Harvey H. (Hardy) Jackson is Professor Emeritus at Jacksonville State University. He can be reached at hjackson@ cableone.net.

Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

UPCOMING EVENTS: Feb. 8 - Justin cross and Rebecca Egeland at BPEC FEB. 16 - Firefly Nights belly dancer group show Feb. 18 - Czech National Symphony Orchestra Feb. 23 - Empty bowls

Members of home economists group share recipes from their collections Ann Cipperly’s

Southern

Hospitality

M

embers of the Home Economists in Home and Community group recently held their monthly meeting at the home of Dibba Spears with Nan Burgess as co-hostess. Opelika and Auburn members have served in a variety of careers, including food service, dietetics, retailing, education, child care services, cooperative extension service, crafts, design, counseling and research.

At the monthly meetings, two co-hostesses provide refreshments and a salad lunch is

held in the spring. The homemade dishes are savored during a fellowship time before the program. Guest speakers present programs on various topics of interest.

Once a year, the program is “Treasures from the Past” where members bring something to show that has special meaning to them.

Organized in 1970’s, the group was first affiliated with American Home Economics Association, but the club is now independent and local.

Members have degrees in a field that was tradi-

tionally home economics, including family and child development, nutrition, dietetics, education, apparel, interiors, related art, textiles, consumer economics, as well as various inter-disciplinary programs.

“The study of home economics has undergone numerous changes through the years,” said Mary Ann Potter, president. She taught at Auburn University in College of Human Sciences for 41 years.

“A national trend was to adopt various names such as family and consumer sciences, human

Photo by Ann Cipperly Members of the Home Economists in Home and Community are sharing favorite recipes they have collected over the years. The group includes members who have served in a variety of careers. Pictured are, from left, front row, Ruth Galbraith, Robin Fellers, Nina Hollingsworth, Betty Higginbotham, Dibba Spears; back row, Mary Ann Potter, Anne Carpenter, Georgia Aycock, Vi Nemec, Judith Nunn, Ann Phillips, Nan Burgess and Cheryl W. Hulsey.

ecology, environmental sciences and human sciences,” Potter said.

One of the members, Cheryl W. Hulsey, taught home economics at Opelika High School for 15 years, then continued working as an educator at Auburn University until retirement.

While at University Outreach, her duties included program development for community

courses, conferences and events, certificate programs, and professional development programs.

One year after retiring from Auburn University, Cheryl returned to work part-time in the Offices of the President and Provost for several more years.

Another member, Anne Carpenter, is a former county agent home economist for the

Lee County Extension Service in Opelika. Anne was involved in food education from writing nutrition and household information in a column to conducting classes, workshops and seminars.

Anne became interested in home economics in the fifth grade when she was a member of 4H. She baked muffins for her family and received See Recipes, page A9

Local belly dancer group to hold February a busy month for production Feb. 16 in Auburn Opelika’s ‘Sound Wall’ Special to the Opelika Observer

Special to the Opelika Observer

Firefly Nights Belly Dance Group will bring the heavens a little closer to earth in “Among the Stars: A Theatrical Belly Dance Production” Feb. 16 in Auburn.

The troupe’s fourth annual theatrical show features dance numbers inspired by planets, constellations, comets and other celestial bodies.

Previous productions focused on fairy tales, mythology and famous works of art. The mem-

The Sound Wall in downtown Opelika has several events planned this month.

Following are brief details of each.

• Feb. 14 "The Sound Wall Supper Club Valentine’s Day" Come celebrate Valentine's Day with your valentine at The Sound Wall. Featuring Executive Chef Jerome Harrell, there will be a special menu

See Dance, page A10

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

Photo special to the Opelika Observer offering attendees a choice between two menu options. There will be live acoustic music before and after dinner. The Sound Wall Supper Club is a monthly gathering

to experience new and exciting cuisine prepared by a professional chef. Only 10 seats are available at the table. Get your friends together and reserve the table or See Sound Wall, page A10

Veteran’s Employment Workshop

Feb. 15

8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Southern Union State Community College 1701 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL

Monday-Tuesday 11 AM - 3 PM Wednesday-Saturday 11 AM - 8 PM

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A8 February 06, 2019

Justin Cross, Rebecca Egeland to hold concert at downtown Opelika’s Bottling Plant Event Center Feb. 8 Special to the Opelika Observer

Cross

Justin Cross and Rebecca Egeland will make the 113-mile trek from Birmingham to perform at downtown Opelika’s Bottling Plant Event Center Feb. 8.

Known as up-andcoming singer/songwriters, the duo’s performance will be recorded and filmed, later returned to those who were in attendance. People are asked to come and

support these artists and make the filming of “Live at the Bottling Plant” successful.

Advance tickets cost $20 and can be purchased through www. bottlingplanteventcenter.com. Day-of can be purchased for $25.

The venue is located at 614 N. Railroad Ave. For more information about the artists, like and follow their social media pages or visit www.justincross. org and www.rebeccaegeland.com.

Egeland

Cliff Eberhardt, Louise Mosrie to perform at Sundilla March 8 Special to the Opelika Observer A pair of Sundilla favorites will take the stage together when Cliff Eberhardt and his special guest Louise Mosrie come to town March 8.

Eberhardt has run the musical gamut, serving as a founding member of the Fast Folk Music Cooperative of New York City in the 1980s to writing and performing Shakespeare. His contemporary compositions are deep, honest and sung with rich emotional vocals and appeal to a wide audience. His music is a rich mélange of pop, rock and folk styles.

As a child, Eberhardt taught himself to play guitar, piano, bass and drums.

In his teens, Eberhardt was fortunate enough to live close to the Main Point, one of the best folk clubs on the East Coast. He cut his teeth listening to the likes of James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Bruce Springsteen, Howlin' Wolf, Muddy Waters, Bonnie Raitt and Mississippi John Hurt - receiving an early and impressive tutorial in acoustic music. At the same time, he was also

listening to great pop songwriters like Cole Porter, the Gershwins, and Rodgers and Hart, which explains his penchant for melodies and lyrical twists.

Eberhardt has been hailed as a driving force of the Greenwich Village New Folk movement. His songs have been covered by Richie Havens, Buffy St. Marie, Erasure and the folk superstar band Cry, Cry, Cry. Eberhardt's soulful voice is among the reasons he was named one of the top 100 Folk Artists of the past 20 years.

Mosrie grew up in the small town just outside of Nashville on a farm with British parents and sev-

eral siblings - riding horses, writing poetry and singing with the radio. After college in Knoxville, she "borrowed" her brother's Sears guitar, bought a simple chord book and started writing songs.

The early material was mostly acoustic pop as she tried to channel her English roots while listening to Everything But the Girl and The Sundays.

Fast forward a few years, a move back to Nashville and some deep soul searching, Mosrie began writing songs about the South - what she knew and where she grew up.

In 2008, she began working on a new album eventually to

‘Paint Your Story’ exhibit opens; available for viewing at Biggin Hall on Auburn University’s campus Special to the Opelika Observer

The Department of Art in the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University is pleased to announce the opening of the exhibition: “Paint Your Story” comprised of works by​Debra L. Dieppa.

Mosrie

Eberhardt

The exhibit will be on view from Feb. 5 - March 7 at Biggin Hall which is located at 108 Biggin Hall on the Auburn University campus.

This exhibition was organized in collaboration with DisArt (https:// disartnow.org/) This event is

free and open to the public, and the Biggin Gallery is wheelchair accessible.

Visit our website www.cla.auburn. edu/art/galleries/ exhibitions/ and our facebook page, www.facebook. com/BigginGallery/.

be called "Home" because she'd come full circle in her voice as a writer. The album was a mix of bluegrass, country and folk and as she weaved in lush stories and songs about southern life, she was even introduced once as "...William Faulkner with a guitar." With those songs, she entered some song contests connected to festivals and ended up winning top awards at Kerrville Folk Festival, Wildflower! Festival, Telluride Bluegrass Festival and Falcon Ridge Folk Festival.

"Home" debuted at #1 on the Folk DJ charts in January 2010 and went on to be one of the most played

albums that year for that chart. Buoyed by a couple thousand earnest fans, she began touring all over the Eastern seaboard, the South and Texas.

Audience members would tell her that they enjoyed the stories between the songs as much as the songs and her strong expressive voice was described as "...like listening to Patty Griffin and Susan Tedeschi at the same time."

Eberhardt and Mosrie have both performed solo shows at Sundilla, and appeared together the last time they were in town. Consider this the Reese's Cup of concerts: two great

sounds that sound great together.

Free coffee, tea and water will be available, and attendees are invited to bring whatever food or beverage they prefer.

Showtime at the Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship is 7:30 p.m. Admission at the door will be $20, but advance tickets are just $15 and can be found at Spicer's Music, World Cup Coffee and online at www.sundillamusic.com.

For more information, go to www. sundillamusic.com or email sundilla@ mindspring.com.

The concert venue is located at 450 E. Thach Ave.

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

Kitchen 3810 3810 Pepperell Pkwy Opelika Score: 99

Momma Goldberg’s 133 W. Longleaf Dr. Auburn Score: 100

Arby’s 2411 Gateway Dr. Opelika Score: 99

Jersey Mike’s Subs 2336 Tiger Town Parkway Opelika Score: 100 Chipotle Mexican Grill 2125 Interstate Dr Opelika Score: 99

Recipes,

from A7 so much praise from her parents and sister that she became interested in cooking. By the 10 th grade she knew she wanted to major in home economics since she also enjoyed clothing construction and decorating.

Her father had discouraged Anne and her twin sister, Carolyn, from continuing in the family tradition in medicine, as he thought it would be difficult for them with families. He encouraged his daughters to become teachers.

Anne graduated from Auburn University in home economics with a master’s in family and child development.

Carolyn, who also lives in Opelika, received a doctorate from Auburn University and taught at various colleges.

Anne was employed at Auburn University in the School of Human Sciences where she worked on a program planning menus for senior centers around the state. In 1982, Anne received an offer at the Extension Service in Opelika, where she worked until retiring.

When Haynie’s Pharmacy in downtown

Seven Layer Casserole Mary Ann Potter Featured recipe from Hunt’s in early 60s Use a 2 qt. medium depth casserole that has a lid, not a flat casserole.

Spray container with cooking spray.

Add each of the following into the dish, forming 7 layers. Do not stir.

1 cup rinsed and drained uncooked white rice 1 cup canned whole kernel corn (8 oz. can) Salt and pepper to taste Pour one 8 oz. can tomato sauce and 1/2 cup water (rinse can with it) 1/2 cup each finely chopped onion and green pepper 3/4 lb. uncooked

Subway 2338 Lee Road 430 Smiths Station Score: 99 Side Track Coffee 817 S. Railroad Ave. Opelika Score: 98

Opelika closed, Anne’s late husband, Bill Carpenter, was the second owner of Haynie’s Restaurant. Café 123 now occupies the space.

Georgia Aycock was an extension specialist in home furnishings at Auburn University and worked with people in the 67 Alabama counties. “After retirement, I became involved with the Home Economists in Home and Community group,” Georgia said. “I’ve enjoyed having contact with other professional women who have a shared body of knowledge and professional experiences that are similar to mine.

Although we’re retired, we’re still interested and learning about many things. Everyone has active lives locally, nationally and internationally.”

Most of the members in the group are Auburn University faculty retirees. Several members of the group are sharing their favorite recipes they have collected over the years.

Persons with an academic degree in the fields listed are invited to join the group and can contact the president, Mary Ann Potter, or any member.

Cipperly can be contacted at recipes@ cipperly.com.

ground beef spread over mixture More salt and pepper to taste Second 8-oz. can tomato sauce and 1/4 cup water (rinse can with it) poured over mixture 4 strips uncooked lean bacon, cut in half, on top Cover; bake at 350 degrees 1 hour. Uncover, bake about 30 minutes longer until bacon crisped.

Beef Stroganoff Cheryl W. Hulsey 1 lb. top sirloin, cut thin into 1-inch wide by 2 ½-inch long strips 5 Tbsp. butter, divided 1/3 cup chopped onions 1/2 lb. fresh mushrooms, sliced

1/8 tsp. nutmeg 1/2 tsp. dry tarragon or 2 tsp. chopped fresh tarragon 1 cup sour cream (full fat) at room temperature Salt and pepper to taste Hot cooked egg noodles Brown strips of beef in 3 tablespoons butter in a large skillet on medium heat. Increase heat to high/med-high.

Add strips of beef in a single layer with space between strips. You want to cook the beef quickly, browning each side, so the temperature needs to be high enough to brown the beef, but not so high as to burn the butter. Work in batches. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper to taste while cooking beef. When both sides are browned, remove beef strips to a bowl and set aside.

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add onions.

Sauté onions for several minutes until tender, allowing them to soak up any meat drippings. Remove onions to the bowl with meat and set aside.

Sauté mushrooms in same pan after melting remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Increase heat to medium high and add mushrooms. Stir occasionally for about 4 minutes. While cooking, sprinkle nutmeg and tarragon on mushrooms.

Reduce heat to low and add sour cream, mixing in thoroughly.

Do not let it come to a simmer or boil or the sour cream may curdle.

Slowly stir in beef and onions. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Note: You may need more salt than you expect.

Serve immediately over hot egg noodles.

(You may also serve over fettuccine, mashed potatoes or rice.)

Haynie’s Pimiento Cheese Ann Carpenter When Haynie’s Pharmacy in downtown Opelika closed, Anne’s late husband, Bill Carpenter, was the second owner of Haynie’s Restaurant. He served Mrs. Boyette’s popular recipe for Pimiento Cheese.

1¾ lbs. cheddar cheese 2 cups mayonnaise 1 tsp. salt Pinch of cayenne pepper 2 tsp. prepared mustard 2½ cups diced pimiento 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 5 oz. Pet evaporated milk Shred cheese into a large bowl; combine with mayonnaise, salt, pepper, mustard and half of pimiento until well mixed.

Place remaining pimiento, cream cheese and evaporated milk in a food processor and process until smooth.

Pour over first mixture; mix again. Allow to sit

for about 30 minutes to blend flavors. Stir well again.

Good in a lightly grilled sandwich.

Chicken Casserole with Yellow Rice Georgia Aycock I got this recipe 50 years ago from a couple who lived in the same apartment complex where Kenneth and I lived when we were first married and in college at Auburn University.

6-7 chicken breasts (Depends on size. May only need 3-4 large chicken breasts. Can also use frozen chicken pieces.)

2 pkg. yellow rice (Use larger packages or 4 smaller packages.)

(Note: You can vary the amount of chicken and rice you use depending on how many people you want to serve.)

1 can cream chicken soup ¾ cup mayonnaise 1 Tbsp. dried minced onion or 2 Tbsp. fresh, finely chopped onion 2 Tbsp. lemon juice Almonds and/or potato chips Bake or boil chicken.

Debone.

Cook rice according to package directions.

Use chicken broth from cooked chicken or packaged chicken broth for more flavor in the rice or if it is dry.

Place cooked rice in casserole. Place chicken on top.

Combine soup, mayonnaise, onion and lemon juice. If sauce is stiff, add a little chicken broth. Pour sauce over chicken.

Sprinkle almonds and/or crushed potato chips on top just before baking at 350 for approximately 30 minutes or until done in middle.

Large casserole may take close to 1 hour to bake. Everything is cooked, just need to heat well so sauce can melt and cook a little.

(Note: Can make ahead. Put in refrigerator until ready to bake.

Top with almonds and/ or crushed potato chips just before putting in oven. Can freeze and bake later.)

Mexican Chili Eggs Virginia Beck 1/2 cup butter or margarine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. baking powder 10 eggs, slightly beaten 1 pint cottage cheese (blend to make smooth) 4 oz. can diced green chili peppers 1 lb. shredded sharp cheddar cheese Melt butter or margarine in a 9 X 13 inch pan in 350 degree oven.

Mix dry ingredients together. Blend in remaining ingredients including melted butter and pour mixture into buttered pan.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until top is lightly browned. Cool and cut into ½ to 1 inch pieces for finger food or

A9 February 06, 2019 desired size for breakfast servings. Serve warm.

Freezes well. Quick freeze on a cookie sheet. Store in freezer container. Thaw overnight in refrigerator or in microwave.

Curried Cauliflower and Cashew Salad Robin Fellers A popular salad in New Zealand 2 to 3 cups raw cauliflower, washed, welltrimmed and cut into small pieces 1 to 2 Tbsp. butter or olive oil 1-2 tsp. curry powder (more is okay if you like “heat”) 1 cup raw cashew halves Salt and pepper to taste Approximately ½ cup mayonnaise Up to ½ cup (total) of other vegetables, such as chopped celery, bell pepper, green onions, optional Parsley for garnish Wash and trim the fibrous stems off cauliflower. Cut into small pieces. Drain well.

Melt butter or heat oil over low heat. Add curry powder and stir well. Add cashew nuts to the pan and cook slowly for about 15 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Allow to cool.

Combine cauliflower, curried cashews, salt and pepper to taste and optional vegetables, as desired. Chill thoroughly.

Mix in mayonnaise, enough to lightly coat the ingredients. Garnish with chopped parsley and/or serve on a bed of green leafy lettuce.

Bernie’s Cheese Ball Nina Hollingsworth 2 Roka Blue Kraft Cheese (jar) 1 Old English Kraft Cheese (jar) 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 2 large cloves garlic, through press 2 tsp. minced onion 2 cups crushed pecans Combine ingredients, adding pecans or saving to roll on cheese ball.

Make at least 2 days ahead. May be frozen .

Chantal’s New York Cheesecake Betty Higgenbotham 10 graham crackers, crushed 2 Tbsp. butter, melted 4 (8 oz.) pkgs. cream cheese 1 ½ cups white sugar 3/4 cup milk 4 eggs 1 cup sour cream 1 Tbsp. vanilla extract 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9 inch springform pan.

In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Press into bottom of springform pan.

In a large bowl, mix cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Blend in milk, and then mix in

the eggs one at a time, mixing just enough to incorporate.

Mix in sour cream, vanilla and flour until smooth. Pour filling into prepared crust.

Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour. Turn oven off, and let cake cool in oven with the door closed for 5 to 6 hours; this prevents cracking. Chill in refrigerator until serving.

Makes 12 servings.

Cream Cheese Coconut Pound Cake Nan Burgess A Southern Living recipe Cake 1 1/2 cups butter, softened 1 (8-oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened 3 cups sugar 6 large eggs 3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 cup bourbon or milk 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted 1/2 cup shredded coconut Powdered Sugar Glaze (optional) Beat butter and cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy.

Gradually add sugar, beating at medium speed until light and fluffy. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until the yellow yolk disappears.

Sift together flour and salt; add to butter mixture alternately with bourbon, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Beat batter at low speed just until blended after each addition.

Stir in vanilla, pecans, and coconut.

Pour batter into a greased and floured 12-cup tube pan. Bake at 325° for 1 hour and 30/35 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center of cake comes out clean.

Cool in pan on a wire rack 10 to 15 minutes.

Remove from pan; cool completely on wire rack.

Powder Sugar Glaze 2 cups powdered sugar 3 to 4 Tbsp. milk 1 tsp. vanilla extract Stir together 2 cups powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth, adding another 1 tablespoon milk, if necessary, for desired consistency.

Easy Easy, Easy Pound Cake Vonda Ball 8 eggs 2 1/2 cups sugar 2 cups plain flour 1 cup cooking oil 1 Tbsp. vanilla flavoring Mix all ingredients.

Beat well, until you see a few air bubbles forming.

Pour into greased and floured tube pan.

Bake in 325 degree oven for 1 hour.

See Recipes, page A11

pelika O Observer

A10 February 06, 2019

Opelika Theatre Company to hold second performance of ‘Dead 2 Rights’ by Lee Mueller Feb. 10 Special to the Opelika Observer Join the Opelika Theatre Company as they host the second performance of “Dead 2 Rights” by Lee Mueller on Feb. 10 at La Cantina in downtown Opelika. Spend the evening with the OTC murder mystery players amidst fun, laughter, crime and

murder. Audience interaction in encouraged and there will be fames and prizes.

To make reservations, call Marty Moore at 334-663-2593 or La Cantina Restaurant at (334) 203-1418 Tickets are $40 each and includes 3-course dinner, non-alcoholic beverage, tax, gratuity and the show. There

will be a cash bar available A portion of the tickets may be tax deductible as the OTC is a nonprofit with 501(c)3 status.

This is a fundraiser for the OTC. About OTC The Opelika Theatre Company, a nonprofit organization under the Community Foundation

of East Alabama, was established in August 2015 in Opelika. The idea was conceived by three friends as they were casually talking about Opelika needing a community theatre to support the amazing talent in this area. An email was sent out to many area residents to attend a start-up meeting and voila! A core

group of people made a commitment to give birth to this remarkable program. The artistic director of OTC is very proud of and thankful for her wonderful staff and The Community Foundation of East Alabama for making this dream possible.

The Mission To empower, enlighten and involve the

community to stimulate and develop their inner creative talents in writing, acting, music, dance, design and leadership by providing quality entertainment for our communities; and to carve paths not yet traveled. ​Opelika Theatre Company is a member of the American Association of Community Theatre.

AACT to hold auditions Feb. 25-26; six performances of ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’ in March Special to the Opelika Observer

Auburn Area Community Theatre announces open auditions for The Last Round-Up of the Guacamole Queens! on Feb. 25 and 26 from 6-8 p.m. at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center.

Callbacks will be Feb. 28 from 6-9 p.m.

No previous experience necessary. Nine women and four men are needed for this riotous “Southernfried” comedy.

The Verdeen cousins from Sweetgum, Texas are at it again. Gaynelle is reeling from the demise of her loathsome ex-husband, amorous Cousin Peaches can’t find a date because men over 50 are horrified at her job as a cosmetologist at a mortuary and hottempered Jimmy Wyvett, the no-nonsense owner of the Wide Bride Bridal

Dance,

from A7 bers of Firefly Nights Belly Dance write their own choreography and make most of their costumes, so the production is a completely original, locally produced work of performance art.

“We’ve been blown away by the response from the Auburn and Opelika community over the past four years,” said Firefly Nights Director Arianna.

“We bring something completely unique to the stage in this region, and people have responded so positively to that.

Sponsors,

from A5

On June 5, 1975, Opelika welcomed Dr. Nguyen De, his wife Dr. Nhung Thi Tran and their two children, Nguyen Phuoc Minh Nhat and Nguyen Thi Minh Doan.

The family lived with Mr. and Mrs. Holmes Floyd at their home on Second Avenue in front

Boutique, is trying to live down an on-air cat-fight with a local televangelist.

Other great roles include charming 80-year-old Uncle Aubrey, who is secretly romancing two sisters at the same time, CeeCee, the talk-show host, haughty Aunt LaMerle, and a mysterious classmate from back in the day, whose “best friend” is his evil hand-puppet.

Those interested are invited to come on one or both audition days and read from the scripts provided. Others interested in volunteering with sets, props and other off-stage areas are also welcome to come to auditions. Contact Director Terry Kelley at Auditions@AuburnACT. org for more information Rehearsals will be Monday, Tuesday, and Thursdays starting March 18. Performance dates are May 10-12 and 16-19.

While locals may not be very familiar with belly dance and its cultural heritage, everyone is familiar with the idea of looking up at the stars and wondering about the stories written there. We love taking that idea and using it as a touchstone to show audiences something new and beautiful.”

Local ballet dancer, instructor and owner of Ballet Intermezzo David Coleman and Mina of Dalloua Dance in Atlanta will be featured guest dancers.

Among the Stars takes the stage Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. at the Jan Dempsey Arts Center in Auburn.

General admission

of the Opelika Mill. The Floyds’ daughter, Mary Ann Rawlinson, and Cherry Sue Jackson were very much involved in assisting with the group.

While living in Opelika, Nhung said, “It is a welcome land for us. We find everything so beautiful here.

“It is hard to leave our country,” she added. “We did not expect to leave forever. We thought there was going to be a battle

Special to the Opelika Observer

Auburn Area Community Theatre’s young performers are excited to present Joseph Robinette’s stage adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ beloved children’s book, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” with six shows in March.

The Pevensie children, during a wartime evacuation, discover and explore the fantastical world of Narnia, the land beyond the wardrobe. Faced with faun, lions, witches and more, Peter, Lucy, Susan and Edmund must learn to work together as a family and overcome

tickets are available in advance for $15 or at the door for $18.

A limited number of both VIP and datenight packages are available for $25 and $40 respectively.

These packages include amenities such as reserved premium seating, refreshments and, for the date-night package, a rose.

Tickets to Among the Stars can be purchased at www. fireflynightsbellydance.com. The show is made possible in part by the generous sponsorship of Better Bodies Massage and Celtic Traditions School of Irish Dance.

About Firefly Nights

for Saigon. Two days after we left , we found out that Vietnam was completely communist.”

Since the standards tor medical doctors are different in Vietnam from this country, the couple took equivalency tests to receive their license to practice medicine here.

They applied for U.S. citizenship as soon as they were eligible.

Nhung worked at a commercial sewing busi-

their differences and fulfill the prophecy to save Narnia, and their lives. This great adventure has captivated hearts and imaginations for generations.

Performances will take place at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, located at 222 E. Drake Ave. in Auburn. Dates for the shows are March 1, 2, 4 and 7-9 at 6:30 p.m. with matinees on March 2 and 9 at 2 p.m. Runtime is approximately 105 minutes including a 15-minute intermission.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. March 4 is “Family Night” and all tickets are $8.

Call 334-246-1084

Firefly Nights Belly Dance is East Alabama’s premiere belly dance performance troupe. Showcasing a wide range of belly dance styles from traditional Middle Eastern styles to modern fusion, Firefly Nights is available for performances at private and corporate events as well as restaurants and festivals. For more information, visit www.fireflynightsbellydance. com.

Note: Like many performers across all genres of performing arts, some members of Firefly Nights Belly Dance use stage names for both branding and privacy purposes.

ness for a while before starting her training, while Dr. Nguyen De worked with an ambulance service.

While they lived in Opelika they had another daughter.

After the family left Opelika, Nhung moved to Chicago to start her medical training. After three years, the family relocated to New York and Pittsburgh for her husband to finish his training.

or visit www.auburnact.org for ticket purchases and more information. Email info@auburnact. org for group rate information.

About the AACT Auburn Area Community Theatre is a nonprofit organization that exists to serve the Auburn-Opelika area. Its purpose is to provide an opportunity for education and participation in

Sound Wall,

from A7

come and meet someone new. The Supper Club is for those who enjoy going out for dinner and trying something new. Come as strangers and leave as friends!

Tickets cost $75 and are available through www.eventbrite.com.

• Feb. 20 "Opelika Songwriter’s Night" presented

by The Sound Wall & John Emerald Distillery Opelika Songwriters Night features local and regional songwriters "in the round" at John Emerald Distillery in Downtown

“I visited Opelika twice before our recent visit,” Nhung says, “but this time it was much more meaningful since I had my two daughters with me. Aline, the youngest one, was born at Lee County Hospital, and she too was very excited to come back to her birthplace. Even her name has a meaning since it is the first two letters of the state.”

Nhung’s husband has

the world of theatre and present a quality, entertaining, and thought-provoking theatre experience.

AACT is actively soliciting new members who have an interest in helping the growth of community theatre.

AACT members and the communityat-large are encouraged to participate.

For more information please visit www.auburnact.org.

Opelika. Come enjoy fine original songs performed by the writers themselves in an intimate listening environment. The show starts at 7 p.m. and there is no cost of admission. The venue is located at 706 N. Railroad Ave. in downtown Opelika.

• Feb. 21 "The Sound Wall Supper Club" This supper club will feature food from local favorite and Executive Chef Chris Wilton.

Tickets cost $50 and can be purchased through www.eventbrite.com.

For more information, visit www. thesoundwallopelika. com. The venue is located at 605 Ave. B.

passed away. She is now living with their son in St. Louis, Missouri.

Dr. Smith T and Barbara Patton were both excited to see Nhung and her daughters, as well as being happy they are doing so well. Both of the daughters are now physicians too.

“I fulfilled my wish,” Nhung says, “to have my family come back to the place where we started our new life in the USA.”

Recipes,

from A9 Log Cabin Roll Ruth Galbraith 2 cups brown sugar 1 cup granulated sugar (white) 1 ½ cups (12 oz.) maple syrup 2 cups half and half 6 Tbsp. butter ½ tsp. salt Combine ingredients in a saucepan.

Cook while stirring until mixture comes to a boil.

Cover and cook 5 minutes.

Remove cover and cook without stirring until mixture reaches soft ball stage (234 degrees F). Remove from heat and cool 30 minutes.

Beat until mixture turns to fudge.

While still warm, divide into four portions on waxed paper greased with butter. With buttered hands knead and form into 4 rolls, each about 2 in. in diameter and 5-6 inches in length.

Could be formed into more logs of smaller dimensions.

Paint cooled logs with Karo syrup and cover with pecan halves and pieces.

Wrap logs in plastic wrap and store in refrigerator or cool place.

Brown Sugar Meringue Cookies Anne Carpenter This recipe is from The Blue Moon Revisited, which is a new edition of the cookbook from Montgomery’s renowned Blue Moon Inn, which I visited with Huntingdon College classmates from 1961-63, the years spent there before transferring to Auburn University.

3 egg whites

334-528-6191

pelika O Observer ¼ tsp. cream of tartar 1 ½ cups light brown sugar 3 Tbsp. plain white flour 2 cups pecans, chopped 1 tsp. vanilla Preheat oven to 250 degrees.

Separate egg whites and let come to room temperature.

Add cream of tartar slowly to whites as you beat until stiff but not dry.

Sift sugar once and slowly add to whites. Add vanilla and slowly fold in flour and pecans.

Place one measuring tablespoon of mixture on parchment paper or greased cookie sheet about one and one half inches apart.

Bake for about one hour or until browned on bottom and holding shape.

If you want a smaller cookie, place only a measuring teaspoon of mixture on sheet. These are delicious and have a praline taste.

Green Bean Casserole Georgia Aycock This recipe is from Andy’s Restaurant, which was in Opelika. Extension Home Economists used to meet there for luncheons when a fellow home economist was getting married, having a baby or retiring.

2-4 cans cut green beans, drain thoroughly 1 cup sour cream 1 can condensed mushroom soup 1-3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated Crushed saltine or butter crackers, about 1 cup Melted margarine or butter, about ½ stick (4 Tablespoons) Optional, almonds

www.eamcfoundation.org

and French fried onion rings for topping Mix sour cream, mushroom soup and garlic; add sauce to drained beans and mix. Add cheddar cheese. Mixture should be slightly soupy. Pour in greased casserole.

Top with almonds and French fried onion rings the last 10 minutes of baking or cracker topping. For cracker topping, melt about ½ stick margarine, add crushed crackers until margarine is absorbed.

Bake at 350 for about 50 minutes uncovered or until it bubbles. Time will vary with size of pan and whether the green bean casserole is thick or thin.

Note: Can be made ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator to bake when needed. If using 4 cans of green beans, may need more sour cream and soup.

Confetti Cheryl W. Hulsey Serve with your favorite chips or crackers for dipping.

2 (15 oz.) cans black-eyed peas 2 (15 oz.) cans black beans 2 (11 oz.) cans shoe peg corn 1 medium can chopped Jalapenos 2 green peppers, chopped 5 stalks celery, finely chopped 1 large Vidalia onion, finely chopped 1 cup apple cider vinegar 1 cup oil ½ cup sugar Drain all canned items. Heat vinegar, oil, and sugar until sugar is dissolved.

Pour over ingredients and mix well.

Cover and marinate 24 hours in the refrigerator. Drain before serving. Serve with your favorite items for dipping.

Contact: Amy Thomas Amy.Thomas@eamc.org

Firing Pin,

from A1

November 2011.

Divided into two bays, the range contains six lanes for handguns and six lanes for rifles or other, more powerful weaponry. Before checking into the range, patrons will be able to secure a wide variety of firearm rentals, including pistols, rifles or a .50 caliber Browning machine gun.

“It’s very rewarding to be able to provide

Opelika,

from A1

additional 204 apartments units and 148 townhouses added in 2019. Fiscal Year 2018 total building permits remained strong at 590 for a total value of $127.6 million dollars.”

City Infrastructure The city broke ground on a new police department and municipal court building last year.

The project is expected to be completed be the end of 2019 and has a budget of nearly $19 million.

The next major project for the city will be the renovation of the LewisCooper Jr. Memorial Library.

Director Rosanna McGinnis has worked to increase the programs offered by the library and saw an increase from 144 programs in fiscal year 2017 to 317 in 2018. ‘McGinnis with help from the Library Board and Chair Dr. Cathy Long continues to lead her team in meeting the needs of the community and developing the library as a strong community hub to make Opelika even better than it is today,” Fuller said.

The Opelika Fire Department, led by Chief Bryon Prather responded to more than 5,000 calls last year. It is expected that a fifth firehouse will be constructed in Opelika sometime in the future to meet the needs of the community.

Recreation Mayor Fuller spoke highly of the new swim coach for Opelika’s swimming program.

U.S. Olympic gold medal winner Tyler McGill has been busy evaluating, improving and leading the Opelika team, as well as administering a new elite learn-to-swim program according to Fuller. Opelika hosted large, revenue generating events like the Alabama Recreation and Parks Association State Swim meet last year which attests to the quality of the facilities available here in Opelika.

The city council approved several major park renovations last year including Bandy Park, as well as a new dog park at Floral. We also graciously accepted a donation from the Stern Foundation for a

A11 February 06, 2019 something like this to the community. I grew up with a passion for shooting, but nowhere to shoot, which I think is a big problem for a lot of guys today,” Edwards said in a previous interview with the Observer about the indoor shooting range.

“I’m happy to be able to provide a safe environment that is comfortable and safe for everyone to use.”

Use of the range is $22/ hour for non-members, so Edwards encourages those interested to look into memberships for more cost-effective

options, which are listed online at www.firingpinshootingsports.com.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony and grandopening celebration with the Opelika Chamber of Commerce are planned for an unannounced date in March.

Firing Pin’s hours of operation are 10 a.m.

- 8 p.m. on Mondays Thursdays 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and noon - 6 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, call 334737-6444, like and follow their social media pages or visit their website.

dog park and walking space for the city. “We are in process of planning renovations and improvements at Covington Rec Center and Shady Park,” Fuller said.

Roadways The city saw several completed roadway construction projects during the last fiscal year with the largest being the Sportsplex Connector Road, the Cunningham Bridge project and the addition of two new roundabouts at Tiger Town and Auburn Street.

The 1st Avenue streetscape plan between North 7th and North 8th Streets, the ADA sidewalk plan and additional roundabouts are all slated to begin this year.

Commission on Crime and Violence A team of 36 community members were tasked with forming a commission dedicated to reducing crime and violence in Opelika. Their focus is on four areas: • Families - led by John McEachern • Education - led by Council Pro-Tem Patsy Jones • Resources - led by Council President Eddie Smith • Youth - Councilwoman led by Tiffany Gibson-Pitts Health & Wellness The city is working toward completing the Opelika Mobile Wellness Clinic which will be a medically outfitted bus that will be able to go into neighborhoods providing needed basic healthcare such as health screenings, preventative services, primary care and supportive resources to those in need in Opelika.

“We know that poor health and lack of basic services lead to chronic stress, unsafe housing, crime and violence, inadequate transportation and a crumbling of the family unit.” Fuller said. “We’re proud to partner with Casey Family Foundation, East Alabama Medical Center and Auburn University in this important initiative.”

Problem Areas One problem area that Mayor Fuller addressed was the problem of litter on the streets of Opelika.

“This affects the way visitors and potential businesses and industries view us,” Fuller said.

“It’s important to me and the city council that we set the example by

enforcing our ordinances and making a positive impact on the cleanliness of Opelika.”

The Public Works department (ESG) has added more crews to better manage litter throughout the city.

Opelika’s curbside recycling program has 950 customers and most everyone is doing a good job putting the correct materials in their bins however, there have been problems with contamination. Mayor Fuller stressed that those participating in the program be diligent about what they put in their recycling bins. The Environmental Services team will be pushing out a contamination campaign for citizens in the coming months to help address these issues.

The Code Enforcement division opened 282 weed cases and closed 252 of those cases. Furthermore, they opened 117 and closed 100 inoperable vehicle cases.

Enforcement of property maintenance codes, allowed the city to demolish 18 dilapidated structures, repair six structures and assist in the sale of 12 properties to new owners who are working to repair them.

Fuller mentioned the upcoming general election where the county will be voting on the renewal of the education property tax levies. These are not new taxes but if passed will renew existing property taxes to be used for school systems throughout the county.

“Please make a note on your calendar to vote “yes” on February 19,” Fuller asked of the audience.

In closing, Mayor Fuller stressed that Opelika’s future is bright, but stated that there is always work to be done.

“Our city council, department heads and city employees have worked tirelessly to bring positive improvements to you and our community, and in 2019, we plan to continue to work together for the greater good of all,” Fuller said.

“We have challenged our department heads to be cooperative with one another and with the people we serve -- to be fair to everyone, to work as a team and to support the vision of our city leaders.”

“Have a great 2019 and God bless.”

pelika O Observer

A12 February 06, 2019

Auburn Zeta Youth work to provide public with information on heart health and education during month of February Special to the Opelika Observer February is designated as American Heart Month to bring attention and awareness to the prevalence and severity of heart disease in the United States. The February Community Service Project of the Auburn Zeta Youth auxiliaries is to continue to work hard in February and throughout the year to fight heart disease by providing preventative information and education to make heart disease a thing of the past.

2nd annual ‘Auburn Chili Cook-Off’ to benefit Storybook Farm

By Morgan Bryce Editor Sample some of the area’s best chili for a worthy cause during the 2nd annual “Auburn Chili Cook-Off” benefitting Storybook Farm is slated for March 2 inside the red barn at Ag Heritage Park.

Backyard teams (not representing a business) and representatives from local businesses will provide the chili for the event.

Entries will be up for two awards: “The Chili Cook-Off Champion” and “People’s Choice.”

Food trucks will

provide variety for the chili-centric event.

Adult beverages will be served. Entertainment will include live music and kid’s zone featuring a moon walk.

Located at 300 Cusseta Road, Storybook Farm is a nonprofit organization that uses horses as therapy for children with special needs, something near and dear to the heart of cook-off organizers.

“Storybook Farm is a magical nonprofit ministry where courageous children faced with a variety of physical, emotional, social and cognitive challenges embrace

and celebrate life through interaction with horses, dogs, cats, goats and other animals. It is a place for healing, sharing, learning and growing; where children experience the exhilaration of riding; where families come together to support one another; where volunteers find a profound sense of purpose and where a community finds its collective spirit,” according to a post on the cook-off’s webpage.

The cost for backyard teams to register is $250. Businesses desiring to field a team can select one of the

following sponsorship options, with forms available through www.auburnalchilicookoff.weebly.com: Habanero ($5,000) Sold out • Cayenne ($2,500) - Corporate ame and logo on event advertising (social media, radio, website, signage, promotional items), 20 VIP event tickets, VIP event parking, 10x10 VIP tent and priority tent placement • Jalapeno ($1,000) - Corporate name and logo on event advertising (social media, website, signage), 10 event tickets and a 10x10 VIP tent Serrano ($250) -

Two event tickets, 10x10 tent.

Advance tickets for the public to attend cost $10 and are available through www. eventbrite.com.

For more information, contact Rusty

Prewett by calling 334-502-5111 or sending email to rusty@ prewettinsurancegroup.com. Ag Heritage Park is located on Auburn University’s campus along South Donahue Drive.

Local SAR chapter names officers, board of managers

Special to the Opelika Observer From right to left in the photo above are the 2019 Richard Henry Lee SAR Chapter Officers/Board of Managers: President: Bob Harris, Vice President: Richard Guthrie, Secretary: Walker Jackson, Treasurer: Danny Speigner, Registrar: Walter Dorsey and Genealogist: David Lashley. Not Pictured: Chaplain: Alva Webb and Sergeant At Arms: Bruce Heath. Sons of the American Revolution members are lineal descendants of a Revolutionary War Patriot who either fought for independence during the Revolutionary War or provided material aid for the cause. Their sister organization is "Daughters of the American Revolution" or DAR. SAR is the largest male lineage organization in the U.S., with more than 500 local chapters and several international societies (including Canada, France, Germany, Mexico, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom). Prominent SAR members include 16 U.S. Presidents, Sir Winston Churchill, and Kings Juan Carlos I and Felipe VI of Spain.

The objects of the SAR are declared to be patriotic, historical and educational; to unite and promote fellowship among the descendants of those who sacrificed to achieve the independence of the American people, to inspire them and the community-at-large with a more profound reverence for the principles of the government founded by our ancestors; to foster true patriotism and to maintain and extend the institutions of American freedom.

SAR sponsors several youth programs, including Oration, Essay and Marketing Material (Brochure/Poster) Contests along with Recognition of Eagle Scouts and JROTC/ROTC Members.

For more information or learn how to join the organization, visit www.sar.org or www.alssar.org.

Opelika Schools & Sports Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports

OPELIKA BASEBALL SCHEDULE • Feb. 18 - Doubleheader v. Enterprise and Smiths Station • Feb. 22-23 @ Troy Tournament • Feb. 26 - @ Wetumpka • March 1 - v. Brookwood

ALFCA recognizes Beulah’s Cody Flournoy as ‘3A Coach of the Year’

On the Mark

By D. Mark Mitchell

Opelika to host area basketball tournament

T

he Opelika High School boys and girls basketball teams will play in the finals of the area tournament championship Thursday.

Both teams play the winner of Russell County/ Benjamin Russell in the first-round game played Tuesday. No results were available at press time. The Lady Bulldogs will tip off at 5 p.m. and the boys follow at 6:30 p.m.

The winner of the area tournament will host a sub-regional game and the loser will travel in the first round.

OPELIKA V. AUBURN Opelika hosted Auburn last Thursday at the OHS Sports Arena in the final regular season game and Senior Night.

The Auburn girls beat Opelika 29-12 in the first quarter,, after making seven 3-point shots.

Opelika shaved four points off the deficit in the second quarter, trailing 37-24 at halftime. The Lady Bulldogs outscored the Tigers 14-6 in the third quarter and trailed only 43-38 heading to the final quarter.

The Lady Tigers, laden with eight seniors, managed to handle the home

Opelika’s home crowd and the strong push from Coach Devin Booth’s team to win 58-53. Opelika was led by Quala Walton’s game high 16 points followed by Claire Worth’s 15 points.

The Opelika boys beat Auburn 61-47, sweeping the 2-game series with the Tigers. The Bulldogs were led offensively by Taye Fields who scored 16 points. Brandon Howard added 14 points along with 10 points each from Jared Willis and Trey Boone.

OHS SUBREGIONALS The Opelika girls play Monday in the sub-regional round of the AHSAA 6A basketball playoffs Feb. 11 at the OHS Sports Arena. The opponent would come from Area 8 tournament runner-up, an area that includes, Chelsea, Pelham, Helena and Calera.

Coach John Wadsworth’s team will play in the sub-regional round of the AHSAA basketball playoffs Feb. 12 at the OHS Sports Arena. Like the girls, the Area 8 runnerup will travel to Opelika.

NOTE- If the area See Sports, page B2

Special to the Opelika Observer

Beulah Coach Cody Flournoy was honored as the 3A Coach of the Year by the Alabama Football Coaches Association during the annual ALFCA banquet held in downtown Montgomery last week.

Flournoy helped guide the Bobcat program to an 8-3 record in 2018, its best since the 1995 season. Left, Flournoy with Valley High School head football coach Buster Daniel, who nominated him for the award.

Right, Flournoy's family from left to right: Grady, Adalyn, wife April and Ansley.

AAMA, ACCS announce scholarship for 50 Alabama students seeking technical certification, degrees Special to the Opelika Observer The path to fill more than 10,000 automotive manufacturing jobs within two years will be even more affordable in 2019 for 50 students in Alabama.

The Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association and Alabama Community College System have partnered to provide a total $180,000 in scholarships, as well as mentors, to 50 students who want to pursue a technical education certificate or associate degree in the automotive manufacturing

industry. The deadline to apply is Feb. 28.

Interested students with at least a 2.5 GPA can learn more information and apply directly through the website, www.dreamitdoitalabama.com/ aama/. A full submission for the scholarship requires the following: a completed application; a maximum 500word essay on why the student wants to work in Alabama’s automotive industry; one signed reference letter; an unofficial college or high school transcript; and a headshot photo.

Applicants must use See Scholarship, page B8

Northside Intermediate School hosts ‘2019 Leadership Live Museum’ last week

By Beth Pinyerd For the Opelika Observer At Opelika’s Northside Intermediate School last Monday, fifth-grade students showed off their knowledge of historical figures during the “2019 Leadership Live Museum.”

From pioneers, presidents, historical figures, political figures, inventors, sports heroes, professional heroes and more, students were asked by their teachers to choose a person of interest to them. The interview of the leader process was done by doing research, writing an essay, preparing a

slide show using their individual Chromebooks, preparing a costume and writing interview questions.

Fifth-grade teaching staff explained that this project integrated language arts, social studies and technology.

Fifth-grade students shared their findings through creative slideshows with fellow students, teachers and parents.

That evening, parents and families were asked to visit their student’s classroom to view the performances. Teachers said that students “worked very hard on this project” to help “make it a success.”

View photos on B2.

pelika O Observer

B2 February 06, 2019

Regional cycling tournament returns to Auburn-Opelika area Feb. 23-24

By Morgan Bryce Editor

Some of the Southeast’s and country’s top cyclists are a paying a

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

visit to the Auburn-Opelika area to compete in the “Auburn University Cycling Weekend” Feb. 23-24.

Hosted by Topview Sports and organized by members of the Auburn University cycling team, the event will feature two days of competitive racing with teams from across the Southeast, including Clemson, Florida, Florida State and Milligan College, among others.

Because of construction and repaving along 1st Avenue in downtown Opelika, both days of the race have been moved to Auburn. Last year’s event saw that Auburn and Opelika both split hosting duties.

Following is a breakdown of both days of the event, provided

by Auburn University sophomore and cycling club member Carson French: Feb. 23 - This will be

considered a “road race,” consisting of an 8-mile route along Auburn Lakes Road in the Farmville area Feb. 24 - This will be a short-distance race, as riders will ride down a 1.5-mile-long stretch of the NCAT Test Track on Lee Road 151.

Those unfamiliar with cycling will be in for an action-packed, adrenaline-filled spectacle according to French.

“There’s going to be a

lot of really fast racing, especially during the day when the higher category racers compete. As a spectator, that’s going to be a lot of fun to watch,” French said.

The start time for both races is 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Admission is free to both days. For more information, find the event’s Facebook page “Auburn University Cycling Weekend 2019” or visit www.topviewsports. com.

Letter to editor: Alabama Opportunity Scholarship Fund My granddaughter’s future is brighter because of the Alabama Opportunity Scholarship Fund.

When we moved to Birmingham from Talladega County in 1993, my son attended a Birmingham public school where he was bullied. Because I could not afford to move or to send him to a private school he had to continuously endure

the bullying. As a result, he dropped out of school in the 12th grade and because he didn’t have a high school diploma, he struggled to find a job.

A few years later I got custody of my grandson and granddaughter. My grandson also attended a Birmingham public school and he was bullied just as my son was years earlier. I decided

to move from my home which I was purchasing to an apartment in Homewood so that my grandchildren could attend school in a better environment.

After becoming disabled in 2012, I had to move back to the neighborhood I left.

Someone told me about the Alabama Opportunity Scholarship Fund

and thank God they did. I applied and my granddaughter was accepted into the program to attend Central Park Christian School.

For the past five years, she’s been thriving in a school where she is encouraged to get the best education possible.

The scholarship has made it possible for my granddaughter to receive

an education that will allow her to soar into the future.

My Granddaughter is only one of many students who rely on this scholarship to open doors to better educational opportunities that will lead them to a better future.

I encourage every legislator and supporter of this program to continue to stay behind

the scholarship program so that our children can get a quality education.

We are educating our next governor, mayor, senator, lawyer, doctor, nurse, police officer, educator and even President. So let’s give them the best foundation we can, their future depends on it.

Shirley D. Garrett Fairfield, Alabama

Photos special to the Opelika Observer Left, a fifth-grade Northside Intermediate student portrays explorer Christopher Columbus during last Monday’s event.

Check Out Our New Tiger Town Location

Fifth-grade students designed and created their own costumes for The Leadership Live Museum.

Across from Lowe’s, another convenient location to serve our customers

Students designed and created the costumes to portray the person they presented in the 2019 Leadership Live Museum at Northside Intermediate School.

AuburnBank’s Tiger Town Kroger location has moved to a new, full-service location on Frederick Road in front of Lowe’s. Under the leadership of City President Eddie Smith, our new location provides three drive-up windows, a drive-up ATM, a night deposit drop, safe deposit boxes, consumer and commercial loans in addition to all our checking accounts, money market accounts, savings accounts,

Eddie Smith CITY PRESIDENT

certificates of deposit and numerous electronic products and services.

We look forward to serving you at the new Tiger Town Branch.

ICK RD.

FREDER

Tiger Town

Lowe’s

R.

D AY TEW GA

Kroger

Our New Location

Visit us here: www.auburnbank.com MEMBER FDIC

I-85

1851 Frederick Road Opelika

Equal Housing Lender

334-275-9600

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

pelika O Observer

B3 February 06, 2019

Community Calendar: Events around town

• Feb. 12 Ribbon Cutting at Big Blue Crawfish & Cajun Market at 10 a.m.

• Feb. 12 River Bank & Trust Business After Hours from 5 - 7 p.m.

• Feb. 19 Ribbon Cutting at Warehouse Bistro • Feb. 20 Ribbon Cutting at Onin Staffing 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 334-2094641. 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 8876659 or at 256-3071449.

Mondays: • The Lee County Voters League meets the first Mondays of the month at 6 p.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church located at 201 South 4th Street, Opelika • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika.

• The Opelika Com-

Sports,

from B1 runner-up for the girls and boys are from the same high school, the schedule could change to prevent two nights of travel.

WRESTLING The Wrestling Bulldogs finished second at the 5th annual “Hornet Slam” at Beauregard High School.

Opelika finished first and second in the following weight classes: Heavyweight Cameron Reese won the championship along with Bevin Williams in the 220-pound

munity Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School band room.

Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike.

• Smiths Station Military Chapter of Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) meets weekly at Mike & Ed’s at 5 p.m. For more information, call 2975581 or visit www. nonukesforiran.org.

• 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 334-528-4197 or deborahowen@eamc. org.

• The fourth Monday of each month a Community Grief Support Group meets from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome. For more information call 8261899 or 502-0216.

• T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support group, meets every Monday night from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika. For more info contact Mary Johnson, 7491584.

• 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 Teamorganizes 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 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 7-8 p.m. every Tuesday.

class; Trint Vaughs - 195 pounds and Cameron Williams - 132 pounds.

Second-place finishers were Cole Lazzari - 170 pounds and Zeak Jones 153 pounds.

NOTE- Dawson received some bad news a couple weeks ago. Dawson, undefeated in the AHSAA this season, injured his elbow and will not be able to finish the wrestling season. He is expected to be back in time for spring football.

OHS BOYS 3RD/ GIRLS 11TH AT AHSAA INDOOR MEET The OHS boys indoor track team finished

third last weekend at the AHSAA Indoor Track and Field Championship INSIDE Birmingham’s Crossplex.

The 4x100-meter relay team won the championship with a time of 1:30:54, Brantan Barnett finished second in the 60-meter dash (6.98), Jaylen Stinson was second in the long jump (21-4.5) and Daniel Kindred placed third in the 60-meter hurdles. Several other members of the team scored points.

Opelika’s girls finished 11th in the indoor championship. A’Nyiah Hughley led the team with a

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 about 6:30-6:45 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 6–8 p.m. 8685 AL 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 706-5189122.

• The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday evening from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a non-profit organization that is Congressionally chartered to

second- place finish in the shot put. (37-1.25).

DIXIE YOUTH BASEBALL Opelika Dixie Youth Baseball is now taking registration online at opelikadixieyouth.com.

The League is open to 7-12 year olds interested in playing baseball. The registration fee is $80 per player, which includes jersey and cap. See the website for brother rates or scholarship information.

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

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 meet the 4th 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 10-11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 8261899 or 502-0216.

• The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts Bingo every Wednesday night at 6 p.m.

• Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 - 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 334-737-5215 or cheri.paradice@ gmail.com for more information or luncheon location of the month.

• The Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group meets at the Health Resource Center at 6 p.m. the first Thursday of each 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 334-528-1076 for more information.

• Feb. 9 - The Martha Wayles Jefferson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution Group will meet Feb. 9 at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce. Local author Frank Harrelson will discuss his latest book, “Twisted Fate,” a historical novel about the Huguenots in 16th and 17th century France, a Protestant group that suffered severe persecution for their religious beliefs. The book is now available at most major book retailers or Amazon.

For more information, call Jean Pinkard at 619-200-0692.

• Feb. 17 - The Auburn District Baptist Women’s Auxiliary will hold its annual Black History Month program Feb. 17. The title of this year’s program is “The Life and Legacy of President Barack Obama.”

Admission is free and open to the public.

For more information, call 334-6105832. The venue is located at 305 Palmer Ave. Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.

pelika O Observer

B4 February 06, 2019

Opelika Fire Department issues reminder on heating equipment safety Special to the Opelika Observer During the coldest months of the year, Opelika Fire Department officials are warning residents to take safety precautions in and around the home while using heating equipment.

Heating equipment is a leading cause of

fires in U.S. homes.

Nearly half (48 percent) of all home heating fires occurred in December, January and February.

The leading factor contributing to ignition for home heating fire deaths (54 percent) was heating equipment too close to combustible items, such as upholstered

furniture, clothing, mattress or bedding.

Local fire departments responded to an average of 52,050 fires involving heating equipment each year from 2012 2016. These fires resulted in annual losses of 490 civilian deaths, 1,400 civilian injuries, and $1 billion in direct property

damage.

With a few simple safety precautions, you can keep your family safe and prevent most heating fires from happening: • Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment.

• Never use your oven to heat your home.

• Have a qualified professional install space heating equipment to assure it is following local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.

• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.

• Always use the fuel specified by the manufacturer for fuel

burning space heaters.

• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from flying into the room.

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

For more information, contact OFD Fire Chief Byron Prather bprather@ opelika-al.gov.

Trinity Christian School students learn art of storytelling Photo special to the Opelika Observer Trinity 2nd graders recently shared storybook skits with their parents and other students. They had so much fun speaking, acting, and using props and costumes to enhance their skits! Trinity 2nd graders recently spent time during reading groups working on storybook skits.

These students practiced speaking, acting, and enhancing already written skits with props and costumes. They were able to share their finished skits with parents and other students. It was a joy to see their creativity and excitement for reading.

LEGALS NOTICE TO CREDITORS PROBATE COURT, LEE COUNTY - CASE NO: 2018C-097 Estate of Wesley Vance, deceased NOTICE TO CREDITOR Take Notice that LETTERS TESTMENTARY of Wesley Vance, deceased, having been granted to Royce Virginia Wangle on the 4th day of December 2018, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given that all person having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Royce Virginia Wangle LEGAL RUN 01/23/19, 01/30/19 & 02/06/19

NOTICE TO CREDITORS PROBATE COURT, LEE COUNTY - CASE NO: 2018B-167 Estate of Kathleen Mary Foley McClure, deceased NOTICE TO CREDITOR Take Notice that LETTERS TESTMENTARY of Kathleen Mary Foley McClure deceased having been granted to Kenneth Eugene McClure of the 5th day of November, 2018, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given that all person having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Kenneth Eugene McClure

LEGAL RUN 01/23/19, 01/30/19 & 02/06/19

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DIANN WEAVER CRUICKSHANK, 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 16th day of January, 2019, 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.

BRANDI S. RAINS Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 LEGAL RUN 01/23/19, 01/30/19 & 02/06/19

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JACK DENNIS CLANTON , 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 15 th day of January, 2019, 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.

RUDENE B. CLANTON Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 01/23/19, 01/30/19 & 02/06/

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT TO BE PUBLISHED

BY PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE OF BILLY AUTT HALL, SR., DECEASED PROBATE COURT CASE NO. 2019-A-039 Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been grated to the undersigned on the 18th day of January 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of 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 the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Ben Hathcock, Personal Representative LEGAL RUN - 1/30/19, 02/06/19 & 02/13/19

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RAMDAS PANDURANG KAMATH, Deceased CASE NO. 2019-A-030 In the Matter of the Estate of RAMDAS PANDURANG KAMATH, Deceased Letters Administration as

Personal Representative of the Estate of RAMDAS PANDURANG KAMATH, deceased, having been granted to the undersigned on January 17th, 2019, by the Honorable BILL ENGLISH, Judge of Probate of said County, 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.

PREMALATHA R. KAMATH Personal Represative LEGAL RUN 1/30/19, 02/06/19 & 02/13/19

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO.: 2019-A-015 RE: ESTATE OF WILLIAM SPURGEON WARR, DECEASED NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to GLORIA GILLIS WARR, as Executor of the Last Will and Testament of WILLIAM SPURGEON WARR, DECEASED, on the 10th day of January, 2019, by the Honorable John William English, Jr. NOTICE IS HERBY GIVEN that all persons having cliams against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. This the 10th day of January, 2019.

GLORIA GILLIS WARR s/GLORIA GILLIS WARR CO-EXECUTORS OF THE LAST WILL AND TESTA-

MENT OF WILLIAM SPURGEON WARR, DECEASED Legal Run 01/30/19, 02/06/19 & 02/13/19

Personal Representatives Legal Run 02/06/19, 02/13/19 & 02/20/19

NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS ESTATE OF CHARLOTTE KATHLEEN KEYES. Notice is hereby given that on the 21st day of December 2018, Letters Testamentary on the Estate of Charlotte Kathleen Keyes, deceased, were issued to the undersigned by the Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama. All persons having claims against the estate must file itemized and verified statements of such claims in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, within six (6) months after the granting of Letters Testamentary or the claims will be barred.

This 21st day of December 2018. /s/ John Anthony Keyes, Sr.

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT COURT OF PROBATE ESTATE OF WILLIE D. GIBSON Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 5th day of February, 2019, by the Hon. 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 law or the same will be barred.

Witness my hand, and dated this the 5th day of February, 2019.

Steven D. Gibson Cheryl L. Lutz Legal Run 2/6/19, 2/13/19 & 2/20/19

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Asbestos Claims, LLC, Jubal L. Hamil Attorney at Law, ARPC7.2.(e) “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”

“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.”

Opelika

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Family & Religion

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February 06, 2019

Then it will look like Him

W

hat I know about Christianity is that we bear no prejudice and everybody is welcome. - Lady Gaga These words were spoken recently by a popular entertainer.

She was calling out a politician who also professes to be a disciple and said he was “the worst representation of what it means to be a Christian.” A major news site ran an opinion piece asking, “What type of Christian are you” and concluded that “Christianity’s future looks more like” the entertainer than the politician.

And I was really hoping it would look like Jesus.

It seems as if the most prominent, allencompassing value

in our culture is the idea, “I have the right to do anything.” Under this rubric, we are gods who define what is moral (anything) and immoral (thinking something isn’t moral). Anyone not in step with this is viewed with suspicion and disdain.

They are cultural neanderthals, inveterate buffoons, and last but not least, haters. Given this, it’s not surprising that most exchanges generate more heat than light.

Neither should it come as a surprise when Christ is appropriated in support of non-Christian values.

Down through the centuries He’s been called in to support the Crusades, the Inquisition, slavery, segrega-

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

tion and much, much more. Truth be told, there is almost always a glaring difference between the Jesus of any given generation and the Christ of the Word. The Jesus of any generation looks amazingly like we do while the Christ of Scripture does not.

To this point, Jesus did accept all people if we understand that to mean He loved them wherever they were.

But loving all people is not to be equated

Church calendar

• Christian comedian Tim Hawkins will perform at First Baptist Church of Opelika Feb. 7.

Besides comedy, Hawkins is known for his songwriting and singing abilities. For more information or ticketing options, visit www.timhawkins. brushfire.com.

• First Baptist Church will host the “Aspire Opelika Women’s Conference” Feb. 16 from 6-9 p.m. The event will feature an evening of music, worship and laughter. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 480812-1100 or visit www. aspirewomensevents.com.

• Pepperell Baptist kicks off a new year continuing to offer a Wednesday

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

ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 1311 Second Ave. #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. #745-6670 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

evening program from 6-7 p.m. for preschool and elementary children called WOW-Worship on Wednesdays. The evening program of Bible messages for children, crafts, fun activities, and snack is ongoing throughout the year. The youth program meets on Wednesday evenings from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m..

This is an evening of prayer, Bible Study, and discussion. For more information, contact youth and children’s pastor Ryno Jones if you need more information at 334745-3108.

Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!

603 Pleasant Pleasant Drive 603 Drive Opelika, Opelika, ALAL 36801 749-1333 Mon- Sat7am 7am-8pm Mon-Sat - 8pm Sun12pm 12pm-6pm Sun - 6pm

to carry their cross and a piece of jewelry around the neck doesn’t figure into that one way or the other.

The other part of the problem is that those who follow Christ often have a way to go in loving people who are unlike them.

Jesus wasn’t friendly to sinners—He was “the friend” of sinners.

He had an unqualified commitment to people that led all the way to the cross.

That must be our guiding star.

Then we won’t be talking about Christianity looking like celebrities or politicians.

It will look like Him. You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: atasteofgracewithbrucegreen. com.

Verse of the Week “A wife of noble character - who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.”

Events can be emailed to the Observer at editor@opelikaobserver.com.

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

with sanctioning all lifestyles. Jesus loved Zacchaeus but He did not love his lifestyle and called him out of it (Luke 19:1-10).

The same could be said in regard to the woman brought before Jesus and accused of adultery (John 8:1-11).

Or anyone else. Anyone going an inch deep in Scripture will see this. And therein lies part of the problem.

Truth sounds like hate to those who hate the truth. There’s no way around that and neither should there be.

Christ confronts all of us with our sin and we have the choice of listening or leaving.

That involves more for some than for others, but no one is exempt.

Everyone is called

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 #745-6377 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

Proverbs 31:10-12 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

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B6 February 06, 2019

OBITUARIES Jean Rainer Meadows Jean Rainer Meadows of Opelika died peacefully on February 1, 2019, at Bethany House with her family by her side. She was 96.

Born on November 27, 1922, in Union Springs, she was the youngest child of the late Mr. & Mrs. Sterling Price Rainer, Jr. She was raised in Union Springs and attended the public schools there. She then attended Judson College and graduated from Alabama Polytechnic Institute. She was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority.

She married Robert T. (Jack) Meadows, Jr. in 1948. Their journey together lasted until Mr. Meadows’ death in 1988.

During their marriage they lived in Eufaula and then in Opelika, where she has resided for the last 60 plus years. She was a school teacher in the Eufaula City Schools and the Opelika City Schools, ultimately retiring from the Opelika City Schools after a career spanning more than 30 years.

She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Opelika. She took an active part in the

Patricia Ward Taylor Patricia Ward Taylor passed away peacefully in Charleston, SC on January 25, 2019.

She was predeceased by her father, William Dewey Ward; mother, Mildred Lucille Duke; and sister, Susan Scott.

She is survived by her husband, John Taylor, Sr. of Mt. Pleasant, SC; 8 children: John Taylor (Pam), Paul Taylor (Maureen), Robert Taylor (Sonya), Charles Taylor, John Robertson (Rhonda), James Robertson (Cheryl), Joy

Richard G. Skinner CSM Retired Memorial services for Mr. Richard G. Skinner CSM Retired, 69, of Opelika, were held Monday, February 4, 2019 at 2:00 p.m., CST, at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home.

Chaplain Laura Eason officiated.

Mr. Skinner whom died January 30, 2019

affairs of her church. Her love for her family and her friends, her sweet disposition and her concern for others endeared her to everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her mother and father, her brothers, Sterling Price Rainer, III of Selma, William Evans Rainer of Union Springs and LaCoste Rainer of Union Springs, and her sister, Florence Haynes of Birmingham.

She is survived by her children, Bob (Ruth) Meadows, Rainer (Susan) Meadows and Jean Vereen (Bruce) Heath, all of Opelika, her 9 grandchildren, Rob (Erin) Meadows of Monroe, GA, Ben (Kara) Meadows of Wellesley Hills, MA, Claire (Drew) Weaver of Acworth, GA, Maggie (Jamie) Cooper of Opelika, Jennifer (Bill) Schwenk of Opelika, Price (Megan) Meadows of Opelika, Will (Stacey) Heath of Leeds, AL, Whit (Jessie) Heath of Dothan, Jack (Beth) Heath of Atlanta, her 19 great grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held in the Fellowship Hall of

the First United Methodist Church in Opelika on Sunday, February 3, 2019, from 3:00 until 4:00. There was a service celebrating her life at First United Methodist Church on Sunday, February 3, 2019, at 4:00. Rev. Robin Wilson officiated.

There was a family graveside service at Garden Hills Cemetery.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Rob Meadows, Ben Meadows, Drew Weaver, Jamie Cooper, Bill Schwenk, Price Meadows, Will Heath, Whit Heath and Jack Heath.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First United Methodist Church of Opelika Building Fund, the East Alabama Medical Center Cancer Center or the Presbyterian Home for Children.

The family wishes to thank the administrators and employees at Azalea Place, the special care givers who assisted her in her last months and the employees of Bethany House for their kind and compassionate care.

Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home directed

Hope (Jay), and Janet Fallin (Richard); Her brother, William D. Ward (Lesa); and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She studied at the University of Tennessee and Emory University.

She was the first certified Radiology CT in Alabama where she worked many years in Opelika. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who never met a stranger. With her loving husband, John Taylor, she spent many days enjoying the beauty of Lake Martin while living in

Dadeville, AL. Friends were received at Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home, 1500 Frederick Road, Opelika, AL from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 30, 2019. Mass of the Ressurection was held at Saint Michael the Archangel Catholic Parish, 1100 North College Street, Auburn, AL at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 31, 2019. A graveside service followed.

She will be missed by family and friends.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

at East Alabama Medical Center, was born November 13, 1949 in Cortland, New York to parents, Raymond and Treva Skinner.

He is survived by his wife, Pamela J. Skinner; daughters: Ashli (Bruce) Scott, Dina Compoli, Deanna Skinner, and Rachel (John Robert) Jordan; 13 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren;

his sister, Vicki Springer; brother, John (Linda) Skinner; and several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Skinner lived in Lee County for the past 27 years, he was the head of the Beauregard Water Department, and proudly served in the Military for 26 years.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

Dr. Thomas Barry Whatley, Sr Dr. Thomas Barry Whatley, Sr. passed away on January 30, 2019. He was born on February 20, 1932 on 3rd Avenue in Opelika He was preceded in death by his first wife Jane Grizzard Whatley, parents William Biggers Whatley and Merle Woods Whatley, his brothers William Biggers Whatley, Jr. and Forest Woods Whatley.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mary Frances; his three children, Beth (Doug) Taylor, Ginger Whatley, Barry (Leigh) Whatley; his eight grandchildren Ryann (Bryan) Stone, Douglas (Kristin) Taylor, Sam Cowles, Josh Cowles, Mary Landon Whatley, Ellie Whatley, Thomas Whatley III and Wyatt Whatley; his three great-grandchildren Charlotte Taylor, Douglas Taylor, Mac Stone; his dog Herbie.

Barry graduated from Cliff High School in 1950 where he was in the R.O.T.C. He lettered in football, basketball and baseball for 3 years and began a life-long love of golf. He eventually be-

Michael Shane Holder Michael Shane Holder, 47, of Opelika, AL passed away Sunday, January 27, 2019 at Emory University Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

Shane was born January 31, 1971 in Atlanta, GA. He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Ruth Holder in 2006.

Shane is survived by his wife of 16 years, Sharie Holder; three sons: Blake Holder, Trey Carla Barnes Funeral Service for Ms. Carla Barnes, 81, of Opelika was Saturday, February 2, 2019 at 11:00 a.m., at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Burial is in Garden Hills Cemetery. Father Bruce Krause officiated. A visitation was held Friday, February 1, 2019, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant

came a scratch golfer. He earned his undergraduate degree at The University of Alabama in 1953 followed by his Doctorate in Dental Medicine in 1957 from The University of Alabama in Birmingham.

For two years following graduation he was stationed at Eglin Air Force base as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force, where he played on the Command Golf Team. He then returned to Opelika where he practiced Dentistry for the next 50 years.

He was a lifetime member of Trinity United Methodist Church where he served faithfully and was a founding member of The Amazing Grace Sunday School Class. He was very active in Lee Academy and later LeeScott Academy where he served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of both schools and was instrumental in the merger of the two schools.

He lived on his farm, Sawtooth, in Chambers County for the past 16 years. He shared his love of hunting with friends and family and was an accomplished wood carver.

He had a love for piloting small planes, “not smoking cigars” and sitting in his golf cart watching the

birds on his dove field.

Most of all, he loved his family and felt it was his greatest achievement.

He said many times that the Lord had certainly blessed him and “What a wonderful and fantastic journey” his life had been.

Visitation was held Saturday, February 2, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of Trinity United Methodist Church.

There was a Memorial Service on Sunday, February 3, 2019 at 2:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church with Reverend Earl Ballard officiating.

There was a family graveside service at Garden Hills Cemetery prior to the memorial service.

Honorary Pallbearers are Jim Whatley, Bill Whatley, Steve Whatley, Forest Whatley, James Graham, Warren Whatley, Bruce Graham, Robert McCullough, Robb Borden, Bubba Dean and Graves Lovell.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Trinity United Methodist Church building fund 800 2nd Avenue Opelika, AL 36801.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.

Holder, and Trenton Sadler; his beloved dog, Harley; his father, Jimmy (JoAnne) Holder; sisters: Nancy (Steve) Winslett, Pam Nichols, Elaine (Terry) Tripplett, and Debbie (Danny) Baker; brother, Kenny (Tammy) Culligan; his mother and father-in-law, Joe and Faye Freeman; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and numerous caring and loving friends.

Funeral services for Mr. Holder were held Saturday, February 2,

2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Visitation was held the evening prior, Friday, February 1, 2019 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.

Shane you were our rock and we will miss you dearly but we know you are at peace now with no more suffering.

You will forever be in our hearts.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.

Funeral Home.

Ms. Barnes, who died, Wednesday, January 30, 2019, in Opelika, was born June 2, 1937, in Ohio.

Ms. Barnes was a native of Ohio, but has lived most of her life in Opelika. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband,

Don Barnes; and her daughter-in-law, Susan Barnes.

Ms. Barnes is survived by her children: Tommy (Lynn) Barnes, Ricky (Stephanie) Barnes, and Carl Barnes; Sister, Pat (Roy) Bennett; grandchildren: Allyson, Kristi, and Cliff; and several nieces and nephews.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

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pelika O Observer

B7 February 06, 2019

Time out to sing with your child

Beth Pinyerd The Classroom Observer

F

or this “Baby Boomer,” it seems like just yesterday that I was in Mrs. Louise’s Kindergarten here in Opelika.

As a child, I can still remember how excited I was to go to preschool and kindergarten just to sing! Singing came so natural to me as a child because it brought such joy! I hear that same joy and innocence as I listen to children sing.

I absolutely love to walk down the halls of a preschool building as I listen to children greet the morning with songs. Humming, singing or a happy baby gurgling indicate a child is happy.

Children love to make music!

An infant quickly recognizes mother’s singing voice. Part of bonding with an infant is for mommies and caregivers to sing to their babies. You do not have to be on key at all to sing to your child.

Toddlers and twos are great imitators.

Toddlers love to listen and do songs that involve motions with their hands and feet.

Preschool age children enjoy music just for music. They love to sing and hum when they are playing and doing their little jobs.

Children love and respond happily to music directions - try it at home!

Playing music in your home or car is thoroughly enjoyed by your child. Music can definitely set the mood for a happy day. One goal that a child tries to accomplish is to pucker their lips in a whistle!

It may take a while to learn but while they are learning they blow little tunes through their lips.

Children love to do moving exercises with music. They love to dance, skip, run and jump to different rhythms. Clapping a simple rhythm helps your child with comprehension, memory making and math. Us-

ing music to help your children to memorize words, math facts, and other lists, plants it in their memories.

Point out in nature different birds that chirp and sing. Just being outside going on a nature walk, children can listen to many different animals that just might be communicating in a song. As fall and winter approach and the winds begin to blow, a child can use their imagination as they listen to the wind blow in song.

Parents, there are so many CDs in the early childhood world to teach and entertain your child for hours.

Children love to make their homemade instruments with pots, pans, spoons, empty boxes around the home. On taking afternoon naps or going to sleep at night, sweet lullabies relax your child and

help your child to drift off to sleep.

There are so many ways for you as a parent to share the gift of music with your children. Wake up your child with a song on their heart. Plant a song in your heart as well.

Beth 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 the Opelika Community and Baldwin County Community.

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. 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@att.net.

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B8 February 06, 2019

pelika O Observer

OHS recognizes five basketball seniors last week

Opelika basketball splits with rival Auburn last week

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Senior members of the Opelika boys and girls basketball programs were recognized during their game last Thursday night v. Auburn.

Pictured from left to right: Trey Boone, Jaylin Cumins, ShaQuala Walton, Justin Love and Jared Willis. Both teams are preparing for postseason play on Thursday night.

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Auburn visited Opelika last week, the last time the two schools will face each other this season. The boys swept the regular-season series v. the Tigers, winning 61-48. The Lady Bulldogs, rallied from a large first-half deficit but came up short, losing 58-53. The boys sit with a 14-9 record overall and the Lady Bulldogs are 21-6 for the season. Both teams are preparing for area tournament play in the coming days.

Scholarship,

from B1

the scholarship toward one of the 14 following declared majors of study or another automotiverelated program: Automotive Manufacturing Technology; Automotive Manufacturing; Automotive Service Technician; Computer Numerical Control; Engineering Technology; Industrial Electronics Technology; Industrial Maintenance Technology; Injection Molding; Logistics; Machine Shop/Tool Technology; Manufacturing Technology; Mechanical Design Technology; Mechatronics; or Welding Technology. ACCS has community colleges in every region of the state that offer one or more of the programs.

AAMA President Ron Davis said the scholarship program was designed to build interest in the exciting and rewarding careers the automotive industry offers. “As Alabama’s auto industry continues

to grow, skilled workers are vital to our industry’s continued success,” he stated.

Jeff Lynn, ACCS’ Vice Chancellor of Workforce and Economic Development, said the scholarship opportunity is just one of several efforts ACCS is executing with its partners this year in order to continually provide world-class training that meets Alabama’s industry needs.

“The best advice we gather for how to educate an excellent workforce for Alabama’s employers and entrepreneurs is from direct input on what industries need,” he said.

“Partnerships we’re creating to build programs that build futures for all Alabama residents require our investment in career technical education, and we’re committed to doing so locally, regionally, and statewide.”

About AAMA Since 2001, the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association (AAMA) has provided awareness of manufacturing trends,

techniques and concerns within the automotive manufacturing industry through interaction among automotive companies in Alabama.

The association’s mission is to promote growth and continuous improvement of automotive manufacturing in Alabama.

About ACCS With 24 community colleges in more than 130 locations, the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) is Alabama's gateway to first-class, affordable education and technical training to compete in a constantly evolving workforce. More than 168,000 Alabamians benefit from the various certification, credential, dual enrollment and degree programs ACCS offers alongside leading industry partners. The system includes the Alabama Technology Network, which provides extensive training and service offerings directly to business and industry. ACCS is governed by the Alabama Community College System Board of Trustees.

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, February 06, 2019

Inside the Statehouse

T

he Legislature has met for their organizational session and elected their leadership for the next four years.

Both the House and Senate leadership remain essentially the same as the last quadrennium. Sen. Del Marsh, R-Anniston, was elected Senate President Pro Tem. Sen. Greg Reed, RJasper, remains Majority leader. Sen. Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia continues as Rules Chairman and Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, will again be Chairman of Finance and Taxation/Education. The only new leader will be Sen. Greg Albritton, R-Escambia, who will be Chairman of the Senate General Fund Committee.

The House leadership is completely intact. Rep. Mac McCutchen, R-Madison, was reelected as Speaker of the House.

Veteran Legislator, Victor Gaston, R-Mo-

T

his may be the year of unconventional presidential campaign announcements.

“I am running for President of the United States,” California Senator Kamala Harris announced on Good Morning America. New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand made her own declaration on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Former Texas senatorial candidate Beto O’Rourke even live-streamed a visit to the dentist, although he stopped short of announcing a presidential bid. Possibly the tools in his mouth prevented him from getting the

By Steve Flowers bile, will be Speaker Pro Tem. Rep. Steve Clouse, R-Ozark, will be Chairman of the General Fund Ways and Means Committee.

Rep. Bill Poole, RTuscaloosa, will Chair the Education Budget Committee. Rep. Mike Jones, R-Andalusia, will set the House Agenda as Rules Committee Chairman and Rep. Nathaniel Ledbetter, R-Dekalb, will serve as Majority leader.

Rep. Anthony Daniels, D-Huntsville, will be the House Minority Leader and Sen. Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, will be Senate

Minority Leader. There a good many new House members and Senators. Approximately 30 percent of the House of Representatives is comprised of new members.

The Freshman Class of State Senators has 13 new members. That makes up one-third of the 35-member body.

There are 11 new Republicans and two new Democrats in the Senate.

This new class of legislators has some potential stars. First on most lists in the Senate is Sam Givhan from Huntsville. Givhan is the grandson of legendary Black Belt Sen. Walter C. Givhan.

He comes to the Senate with not only a strong pedigree but extensive leadership experience.

He is a successful economic developer and attorney. He has been chairman of the Madison County Republican Party.

See Flowers, page B10

City of Opelika names Kevin Rice as new ADA Compliance Officer Special to the Opelika Observer The City of Opelika and its Planning Department are excited to announce Kevin Rice as the new ADA Compliance Officer. Rice will oversee, recommend, monitor and coordinate the city’s ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan as related to facilities management, private development and public access for the City of Opelika.

In his new position, Rice will provide direction and services necessary to meet compliance with all state and federal disability legislation and regulations; review complaints and grievances, conduct investigations; write reports; respond to requests for information from federal and/or state, and/or disability compliance officials.

Rice “I am honored to serve as the city’s ADA Coordinator. I intend to work closely with members of our community to expand and improve access to city facilities, services and programs, both for residents and visitors to the great city of Opelika,” Rice said.

Rice has an extensive resume showing his expertise in the maintenance engineering and inspection field. Prior to joining the city, Rice was

a senior inspector for the Georgia Department of Transportation.

Rice also served in multiple leadership positions in the U.S. Army.

He honorably retired after serving for 16 years. During his time in service, Rice was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor for heroic actions while serving in Afghanistan.

“The city has been working on becoming ADA compliant for some time. We look forward to Kevin helping us implement the plan we now have in place. Kevin’s time in the military and at the Georgia Department of Transportation will make him a strong addition to the City of Opelika family.”- Mayor Gary Fuller For more information, please contact Matt Mosley at cmosley@opelikaal.gov or 334-705-5156.

Seeds of Hope The Makings of a President? saxowords out. phone, Perhaps charming motivated voters by a need with his to stand seeming out in relatwhat is to ability likely be a and just crowded a little bit Democratof cool. ic primary, In 2002, candidates then-Senare lining ator John up to grab

By Samuel MooreKerry the miSobel went on crophone Meet the before it is Press to snatched announce his intention from their hands.

Such a strategy is hard- to form an exploratory committee. However, the ly new. In 1992, thenuptick in unconventional candidate Bill Clinton announcements is inargumade an appearance on able, and may represent the Arsenio Hall Show. a change in course.

He famously played the

Point Broadband holds successful fundraiser for Food Bank of East Alabama Photo special to the Opelika Observer Point Broadband wants to thank the community for making our food drive a success and supporting the Food Bank of East Alabama. You donated 227 pounds of food! That adds up to 175 meals for families across Lee County. Point Broadband is committed to serving our community in all ways, to make lives better.

Perhaps holding a large campaign rally and giving a long announcement speech, filled with lofty and uplifting rhetoric, is a thing of the past. Will this lead to the election of better candidates?

“We have been electing magic ponies in our presidential contests,”

wrote Wall Street Journal columnist Peggy Noonan. “And we have done this while slighting qualities like experience, hard and concrete political accomplishment, even personal maturity.”

This drive to elect an empathetic candidate, the type we can envi-

sion ourselves “having a beer with,” is a driving force in modern presidential campaigns. How a candidate appears on television, the level of charisma with which they shower upon audiences.

All of these elements help form how we view See Hope, page B10

pelika Observer O

B10 February 06, 2019

OLLI at Auburn to host Laura Murray for lecture series Feb. 13 Special to the Opelika Observer The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Auburn University (OLLI at Auburn) will host its lecture series titled ‘Wisdom Wednesday’s’ on Feb. 13 from 2:30-4 p.m. at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art which is located at 901 S. College St. in Auburn.

OLLI members, guests and friends are all invited to learn more about OLLI at Auburn course

Flowers,

from B9

Sen. Will Barfoot of Montgomery will be an able replacement for Dick Brewbaker in his Montgomery, Pike Road, Autauga, Elmore and Crenshaw district.

He is an attorney by profession and is open, affable and very likeable. He may be as popular as Brewbaker.

He carried every box in his district against a viable opponent.

Young Garlan Gudger

Hope,

from B9 a candidate, help inform which lever we will pull when we find ourselves in a ballot box come November 2020.

Yet I worry that such a desire obfuscates the reason to support a candidacy. Does our system of modern campaigning at the highest levels have the effect of discouraging level-headed and substantive individuals from

offerings, social engagements and initiatives.

Laura Murray, author and illustrator of “Coloring Your Way Through Alabama’s Capitals” will take you on a tour of 200 years of Alabama history through the locations of our state’s 5 capitals.

Learn how her historical coloring book, “Amazing Alabama” provides opportunities for learning and enjoyment - either by yourself or with a friend.

Murray will share some of her favorite art

supplies and some new coloring techniques to make your masterpieces stand out from the crowd.

Murray earned her bachelor of fine arts degree at Columbus State University and specialized in graphic design and illustration.

After working more than 15 years in the corporate design world, she decided to start her own design business. Her first book,“Amazing Alabama,” was released in

November 2017. Murray finds inspiration for her artwork in the people she meets and the region she calls home—going on weekend trips, touring local museums, trying out mom-and-pop restaurants and driving through small towns.

Her favorite art medium is pen and ink, but she is always experimenting with different styles and techniques.

OLLI at Auburn offers academic not for credit programs for adults aged

50 years or older through program sites at Auburn University, AUM in Montgomery and the Chambers County Public Library in Valley.

Membership includes several benefits such as participation in social engagements, our lecture series, day trips, and other programming initiatives.

OLLI at Auburn is a program of the Office of the Vice President for University Outreach at Auburn University.

OLLI administrative offices and select classes are located at the historic Sunny Slope property which is located at 1031 S. College St. in Auburn.

For more information regarding this event or if you would like to assist the organization as a volunteer faculty member, volunteer service assistant, or sponsor, call Ileeia A. Cobb, Ph.D., OLLI Director, at 334844-3105, email olli@ auburn.edu , or visit www.olliatauburn.org.

will be a quick study and will be a stalwart bulldog for his Cullman and Northwest Alabama district. He has deep roots in Cullman County and has a bright future.

Sen. Donnie Chesteen moves over from the House to the Senate.

His Wiregrass district encompasses all of Dothan and Houston and Geneva counties.

He is a native of the area and very popular. He is a former coach, knows his people and has not become aloof. He is humble, accessible and a thoughtful decisive legislator. He will fit in well

in the Senate and will probably stay awhile.

Sen. Chris Elliott of Baldwin will be immensely effective. He has been a Baldwin County Commissioner and will be a fierce advocate for the coastal area.

Sen. David Sessions from Mobile moves from the House to the Senate. He is a successful farmer and will be an effective voice for the Gulf Coast region.

Centre Sen. Andrew Jones is very sincere. He will be an ardent worker for his Etowah/Cherokee district.

Newly elected Sen. Dan Roberts, R-Mountain Brook, is a successful businessman who has been active civically in Jefferson County for years and will serving in the Senate as a public servant.

In the House, Rep. David Wheeler from Vestavia has been around Alabama politics for 40 years. This will be a small learning curve for him.

Young Will Dismukes of Autauga appears on most lists of potential rising stars. He has a bright future.

Wes Allen from Troy

has been Probate Judge of Pike County. He is young with governmental experience.

Tracy Estes from Marion County will be a diligent and effective Representative for his Northwest Alabama district.

Several of the Freshman House members have governmental experience. Jeff Sorrells has been Mayor of Hartford. Rhett Marquis from Coffee County comes from the Enterprise City Council.

Rex Reynolds from Huntsville has a lot of law enforcement experi-

ence. Many observers point to Ginny Shaver of Cherokee County as a real leader to follow.

When it comes to young legislative stars, the two brightest are still Bill Poole of Tuscaloosa on the Republican side and Anthony Daniels from Huntsville for the Democrats.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature.

Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

jumping into the fray?

While charisma and likeability play a role in any job interview or social interaction, this is simply one part of the equation.

Isn’t it time for a return to more substantive policy debates, instead of a prevalence for distilling a candidate to a handful of sound bites?

Regardless of party affiliation, most can likely agree our country is at a crossroads. Instead of choosing the most likeable, shouldn’t we be choosing the most qualified?

While charisma and charm can be alluring, the reality is that these qualities alone fail to make a great President. So much more is required by both the people and the office. A strong intellect, a strain of compassion, moral backbone, a good temperament, a willingness to compromise when necessary and a proven desire to stand firm when the moment demands strength. A desire to serve all the people, not just those they find in lockstep agreement

with their espoused ideology. We need a man or woman with a combination of qualities, willing to make hard decisions and take on the most complicated issues facing our nation.

The office requires a sense of decorum and respectability. An occupant high-minded enough to engage with those on the opposite side of the aisle, while urging Americans to both consider and embody the very highest ideals of this great nation. We need an in-

dividual who brings out the best in us, not the worst. A visionary, one who can see things we cannot see; and, do the things we cannot do. “…A candidate now is a mood,” Noonan wrote recently. “Not a thought, a stand or a statement, but a mood.” A dangerous state of affairs. After all, moods come and go. They change based on the wind. A person’s efficacy for office should not be judged on the basis of the current mood of the country.

There has to be a stan-

dard by which we judge our candidates, one that transcends our current cultural predilections or flavor of the day. As Americans, we should require more from our candidates running for office.

After all, when you look at the current crop of both declared and undeclared candidates, do you see the makings of a President?

Samuel Moore-Sobel is a freelance writer. To read more of his work, visit www.holdingontohopetoday.com.

1.80

%

APY*

OFFER VALID FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY VALID AT OUR LEE COUNTY OFFICE ONLY

9-Month CD

Minimum opening balance for CD is $25,000 in new money only and maximum is $249,000. *1.80% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is effective for account opened beginning January 28, 2019, for a limited time only. Minimum balance of $25,000 is required to open and earn stated APY with a maximum balance of $249,000 for either a personal or business CD. Funds must come from a source outside AmeriFirst Bank. Interest to begin to accrue on the business day you deposit your funds. We use the daily balance method to calculate the interest on your account. This method applies a daily periodic rate to the accrued interest. Interest is compounded and credited quarterly. If you close the account before interest is credited, you may receive the accrued interest. Penalties for early withdrawal will apply. Fees may reduce earnings. Offer not available to brokers, dealers or other financial institutions. This offer is subject to change without notice.

2.45

%

APY*

OFFER VALID FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY VALID AT OUR LEE COUNTY OFFICE ONLY

15-Month CD Minimum opening balance for CD is $25,000 in new money only and maximum is $249,000.

*2.45% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is effective for account opened beginning January 28, 2019, for a limited time only. Minimum balance of $25,000 is required to open and earn stated APY with a maximum balance of $249,000 for either a personal or business CD. Funds must come from a source outside AmeriFirst Bank. Interest to begin to accrue on the business day you deposit your funds. We use the daily balance method to calculate the interest on your account. This method applies a daily periodic rate to the accrued interest. Interest is compounded and credited quarterly. If you close the account before interest is credited, you may receive the accrued interest. Penalties for early withdrawal will apply. Fees may reduce earnings. Offer not available to brokers, dealers or other financial institutions. This offer is subject to change without notice.

pelika O Observer

B11 February 06, 2019

Local civic organizations hold meetings last week Sara Banks with Boy Southern Union’s Greg Leikvold Scouts of America speaks addresses Opelika Rotary Club to Opelika Kiwanis Club

Special to the Opelika Observer Sara Banks with Boy Scouts of America spoke to the Kiwanis Club of Opelika this week. Pictured are Sara Banks and Bob Harris. Banks is the Boy Scouts of America District Executive for the Saugahatchee District which consists of Lee and Chambers Counties. She spoke to the club about the many opportunities that Boy Scouts of America has here from kindergarten to adulthood. She also shared new changes that Boy Scouts have worked into their organization such as girls "dens" and family troops for younger children.

Opelika Lions Club hears from OHS Band Director Neil Sasser

Special to the Opelika Observer Neil Sasser, right, Opelika High School Band Director, was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club. A highlight in his “State of the Band” report was the band’s halftime show at the Gator Bowl this year. Opelika was the only High School Band to perform at halftime for any bowl game this season. The band’s Spring concert will be at the first night of Summer Swing in the Park.

Mr. Sasser was introduced by Lion James Morgan, left.

Special to the Opelika Observer On Tuesday, Jan. 22nd, the Opelika Rotary Club welcomed Southern Union State Community College’s Director of Workforce Development, Greg Leikvold, who spoke to Rotarians about the latest efforts to get people in Opelika and the surrounding areas better connected with a career path.

Leikvold recently joined Southern Union after serving in a consulting role with the City of Opelika and Opelika City Schools where he was tasked with identifying the needs of local industries and working to develop a workforce program that will preparing future employees to be able to meet those needs.

Pictured with Leokvold is Club President Nathan Kastner (left) and program host John Sweatman.

Exceptional Foundation members share details of ‘Eggs on the Plains’ competition with Opelika Rotary

Special to the Opelika Observer Samantha Bradshaw (middle) and Katherine Porter (right) shared exciting information about the Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama (EFEA) recently with Opelika Rotary. EFEA’s popular “Eggs on the Plains” competition is slated for March 30 at Ogletree Village. Contestants will use Big Green Egg Cookers to prepare sample-sized goodies for visitors. Watson Brothers Patio and Hearth will provide Big Green Eggs for use by all teams. See eggsontheplains.com for information on entering.

The Exceptional Foundation serves adults with special needs, aged 18-61, who no longer qualify for in-school programs.

Pictured, from left, are Nate Kastner, club president; and Samantha Bradshaw and Katherine Porter.

The Opelika Rotary club meets each Tuesday at noon, at Saugahatchee Country Club.

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B12 February 06, 2019

pelika Observer O

Last week’s answers:

1-30 Scramblers Answers: 1.Perturb , 2. Dodge, 3.Certain , 4. Veiled Solution: DEBATING

pelika Observer O

B13 February 06, 2019

COMICS

“Sometimes crying or laughing are the only options left, and laughing feels better right now.” ― Veronica Roth, Divergent

pelika Observer O

B14 February 06, 2019

I

Walls Moved By Time

set out for the western end of an Alabama road. My destination was hardly a dot on the map, a place most may never go. Years before, I stood in an Auburn bookshop sifting through the pages of an unfamiliar book. It mentioned a township near the Mississippi line. I knew someday, I would take that drive.

The midday sun pours across the swamps and flatlands as I trace the northern crest of Macon County.

Winds sweep ripples o’er icy edged creek beds and ditches as they thaw. Weathered trees with knarly trunks tangled and split stand defiant against the raw landscape. The coat of innumerable cattle shine in the light along rolling hillsides. I follow the memorial highway for a while, from Montgomery back to Selma, and then the

map takes a northward turn.

In one town the shambles of a Piggly Wiggly lay in wake of, process over progress, I imagine. Letters have fallen from the grocery store marquee. The town seems scarcely the heartbeat of a community any more.

Shuttered storefronts, barred windows and doors. On the corner, the browning shroud of what was the town Christmas tree hangs suspended by strings.

The red bells and bows are still bright reflecting the nearby letters scattered along the sidewalk, P, i, g… In the cemetery, a local places flowers on a grave. The black cast iron fence marks boundary ‘round plots distinctly separated by class and century.

White washed homes embellished with hand hewn wooden gingerbread lean a little as their foundations shift, walls bend and rooftops to floors collide. I

By Sarah West check the dashboard, making sure the car has plenty of gas. I anticipate I won’t see another station or store for miles.

Cows drink along the bank of the catfish pond. This part of the state is laced with hatcheries. The vista broadens and the road stretches straight into the distance as far as one can see. The GPS alerts that I have arrived. I slow the car and look for something recognizable. I stop to photograph an old church in the early evening light, then turn ‘round and realize I’m surrounded by ruins of the old South,

the roots, and the stories that never die.

A raised wooden porch sways with the tide of time circling the cotton gin; the bricks look hand made.

The mortar endures.

I walk around the township’s old structures knowing this place as a whole could just as easy slip into the soil beneath one’s feet. Instead someone chose to defy convention, and resourcefully redefine sustainability.

A couple of cars pass, and some stop at the

only store in town, a tin roofed general store, next door to a handful of other primitive structures turned modern wonders in a creatively resourceful sort of way. It’s a quiet place, this one horse town. Some might say desolate; I find it serene.

I drove west to edge of nowhere, and there I found remnants of things quite familiar forged by people I’ve never met.

“Art is Life Expresses” - Sarah West To learn more about

the work of Samuel Mockbee and the ongoing Rural Studio Program in Newbern, Alabama visit ruralstudio.org and samuelmockbee.net ©The written word and all content herein is the protected work of Sarah West.

Sarah West retains all rights to the written word and all content herein.

All requests for reprint and/or publishing in any other publication should be directed to Sarah West. sarahwestgallery@att.net.

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

J.W. Darden Foundation’s 7th annual ‘Black Tie Gala’ held Saturday

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Dr. Dell J. Crosby was honored during the J.W. Darden Foundation’s 7th annual “Black Tie Gala” held Saturday night at the Auburn Marriott Opelika Resort and Spa at Grand National. Named in honor of Opelika’s first African American physician, the event also serves a fundraiser and opportunity to present scholarships to local medical students who are aspiring to make a difference in the lives of people in their respective communities.

This year’s scholarship recipients were: Janet Chen, Ann Lambert and Dw’Nesia Williams