pelika Observer O
Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2020
Vol. 12, No. 19
Opelika, Alabama
“By local people, for local people.”
Mayor Gary Fuller gives ‘State County commission approves hiring of of the City’ address last week
Christopher Tate as new LCEMA director
By Natalie Anderson Staff Reporter The present and future of Opelika was
a highlighted topic of discussion during the 6th annual “State of the City” held last Friday at The Bot-
tling Plant Event Center in downtown. Hosted by the Opelika Chamber of Commerce, the event
featured a speech by Mayor Gary Fuller that focused on the success of previous See Fuller, page A3
The city of Opelika announces registration dates for ‘Citizen’s Police Academy’ Special to the Opelika Observer The City of Opelika Police Department is now accepting applications for the Citizen’s Police Academy. The Academy meets for eight consecutive Thursday nights beginning on April 2. The final class will be May 21. The class size is limited to 20 participant, so officials encourage everyone to get their applications in as soon as possible. Interested applicants can contact Lt. Ben Blackburn at OPDjobs@opelika-al.gov See CPA, page A2
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Index
OPINION.....................................A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 RELIGION..............................A13 CALENDAR..................................A14
COMICS.....................................A16 SPORTS..................................B1 POLITICS...................................B7 PUBLIC NOTICES..........................B13
Tate By Morgan Bryce Editor In a 3-2 vote at the end of Monday’s meeting, the Lee County Commission approved the hiring of Christopher Tate as the new director of the Lee County Emergency Management Agency. Following weeks of interviews, the final two candidates for the director’s position were Tate and Rita Smith, who has been with the agency since 2008 and has served as the organization’s emergency management specialist, public information officer and overseer of grant management. “I’m excited to come back to Lee County and continue doing some of the work that
I was doing there before. It’ll be great to restore contact with the community and some of the contacts with those who are members of the community’s first responder and law enforcement groups,” Tate said. Tate is no stranger to Lee County. Originally from Hoover, he moved to the area to attend school at Auburn University, where he majored in aviation management. Graduating in 2006, Tate joined Lee County EMA the following year as an emergency planner, and stayed with the organization for 10 years. His wife Rebecca worked with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office for 13 years during this See Tate, page A2
pelika O Observer.com
Visit www.opelikaobserver.com for a sample letter to ADEM to voice your concerns about the proposed quarry
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A2 Feb. 12, 2020
Letter to the Editor: Lee County citizens need to step up voice, opposition to proposed granite quarry Dear Editor:
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e, as Lee County citizens, have so much to be proud of. We have outstanding state, county, city and civic leadership. We see booming economic development. We are blessed with outstanding universities, colleges, and public schools. We enjoy numerous retail and recreational opportunities. We are experiencing tremendous residential growth and are fortunate to have excellent stateof-the-art medical facilities. Auburn, Opelika, and Lee County together have become one of the fastest growing areas in our state because of the high quality of life in the entire Lee County area. We should be very proud to call this area
CPA, from A1 and request an application. Please include “CPA” in the email subject line. Then, Blackburn will email the application to registrant to return
our home. We must continue to work together to keep our communities safe, secure, healthy, and expanding. However, you may have read recently about a proposed Opelika granite quarry plan that has been applied to the state by Creekwood Resources LLC in Florence. This company has applied to state officials for air and discharge permits for a granite quarry to be located on County Road 168 just off US 431 north of Opelika, near Saugahatchee Lake and close to local schools. Mayor Gary Fuller along with city, county and state officials, and along with Opelika City school representatives and Opelika utilities personnel, are voicing strong oppositions to the proposed quarry. Hundreds of Opelika,
Lee County and Auburn residents have written letters to the State of Alabama ADEM expressing their strong opposition to this granite quarry proposal. While many have voiced their opposition, we need many, many more letters to be written by citizens of this area to strongly voice their opposition to this detrimental quarry proposal. The proposed quarry could be very harmful to Saugahatchee Lake, the main source of Opelika’s drinking water. The traffic and noise from on-site blasting could become an issue, along with adversely affecting the air quality. Potential carcinogens that would be released in the air around nearby schools, colleges, and neighborhoods could be extremely dangerous. There are
many nearby businesses and real estate holdings that could be adversely affected such as Auburn Opelika Grand National and National Village. Non-profits such as Story Book Farms may possibly have to close if the quarry is located in close proximity. Numerous homes close by could be impacted by contamination of local wells and aquifers. This is not just a problem just for Lee County residents or Opelika residents. This is a potential problem for the entire East Alabama area. The Opelika City Council has adopted a resolution opposing the quarry, and the Auburn City Council will be taking up a similar proposal at its Feb. 18 council meeting. Individual citizens, also, must voice their
upon completion. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on March 9. This unique and thought provoking eight-week course is aimed at adults from the ages of 18 and above. Its goal is to educate the public on the various aspects
of police work within the City of Opelika the various divisions, the training officers must go through, the dangers faced by Opelika’s force on a daily basis. Each week, participants have the opportunity to listen to officers from various divi-
sions in the force relate their duties, the training and experience required for that particular division. Members are given handouts filled with information and statistics and they also get a hands-on experience to give them a feel for what it is like to wear a badge in Opelika. For more information, call Blackburn at 334-705-5258.
Permits & Services Division Alabama Department of Environmental Management P.O. Box 301463 Montgomery, Alabama, AL 36130-1463 Subject information: Proposed Quarry NPDES Permit Number: A10084018 Air Permit Facility Number: 206-0050 Your response is vitally important. Thank you for your consideration to write a letter. Let’s work together to keep all of Lee County healthy, growing, and clean for all of our residents now and into the future. Thank you,
strong concerns about this proposal. Won’t you please take a few minutes and write a letter expressing your concerns to state officials? Mayor Fuller’s office has created a fact sheet detailing the situations that can be read at httpsi://bit.ly/2uOXnqo. The fact sheet points out that discharge from the quarry will run into Saugahatchee Lake impacting local wells and aquifers and could possibly reach many areas even outside of Opelika as well as causing significant air quality damage. If you choose to write a letter, please do so no later than February 20, 2020. Time is of the essence. Address your letter to: Hand delivered to, Russell A. Kelley, Chief
Dora James, Opelika Shirley Lazenby, Opelika Anne Whittelsey, Opelika Kathryn James and Jeff Reese, Opelika
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pelika Observer
Publisher: Michelle Key Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Doug Horn and Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Sports Writers: Rick Lanier and Michelle@opelikaobserver.com D. Mark Mitchell
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w w w. o p e l i k a o b s e r v e r . c o m 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801
CORRECTIONS The Opelika Observer will correct any errors, omissions or inaccuracies deemed to be substantive. Corrections may be requested by contacting the Editor at (334) 749-8003.
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A3 Feb. 12, 2020
Cedric Anderson appointed as new chief of Auburn Police Special to the Opelika Observer Cedric Anderson will become the next Auburn Police chief effective on March 1. He will take Chief Paul Register’s place as Register moves into his new role as public safety director. Anderson is a 27year veteran of the Auburn Police Division and most recently served as the section chief for city operations, which included the patrol and records sections. Prior to his time with the City, Anderson served in the U.S. Army and as a police officer for Auburn University. A longtime area resident, Anderson is a graduate of Auburn University and holds a master’s degree from Faulkner University. He served as an
Anderson adjunct instructor and is currently working on his doctorate at Auburn University. Anderson has received numerous awards and recognitions during his distinguished career. Since beginning his employment as a patrol officer in 1992, Anderson has held nearly every rank within the police division including that of
a patrolman, narcotics detective, supervisor in both the patrol and detective sections, patrol lieutenant, patrol captain and has served as assistant chief since 2016. He has also served the division as a polygraph examiner and as an internal affairs investigator. Anderson is known throughout the community and has been
Matthews involved and assisted in the development of such community outreach efforts as the “Bridges” program and “Neighborhood walks.” Additionally, he is well known throughout the law enforcement community and brings a wealth of experience to the position. Current Assistant Chief Will Mathews
Women in Business: Amy Cotney, the ‘Rogue Realtor’ By Bradley Robertson For the Opelika Observer In the polished and pretty Southern culture, if someone sticks out, they get seen. That’s not tough in this little neck of Lee County. It is a snow globe of all things lovely, delightful and good. Who remembers the movie “Pleasantville” starring Reese Witherspoon and a young Ewan McGregor? In the movie, the two stars fall into a black-and-white TV with a perfect town setting. Slowly, as the screenplay progresses, the black and white begins to disappear and color and soulful life are added in. The last few years, this community has started transforming into a space a little more colorful. This area has always been alive and active. It’s the joy that attracts visitors and new people every year, but the progress and open posture is moving forward. There is design and excitement and creativity everywhere. I feel the enthusiasm and hear new ideas and see business budding. We are caring for
Tate, from A1 period. In addition to his agency role during his first stint in Lee County, Tate served as a member of the Auburn Composite Squadron, was a reserve law enforcement officer and worked as an EMT. Tate took a job closer to home in October 2017, joining the Jefferson County EMA as an emergency management officer. According to the agency’s website, his responsibilities included managing the outdoor warning siren system, social
our space and helping it to grow. And there is one fantastic, full of color lady leading the way, Amy Cotney. She is all things bright and beautiful. She is candid and full of spunk. Her energy is contagious, and she doesn’t meet a stranger. Above all, she loves her village with everything in her tiny being. Auburn is her home and she will do whatever it takes to make it home for someone else too. “I’m very lucky to be me,” Cotney said. “I don’t know how to be anyone else.” I sat down with her in her bright, modern style home in the heart of Auburn near the local Kroger. Cotney is known in our neck of the woods as the “Rogue Realtor,” although she has only been in this career for slightly more than four years. “I’ve always been in sales. I’ve sold cosmetics. I’ve sold architecture supplies. I had a skirt business a while back called ‘Put Your Game On.’ We made collegiate skirts out of tee shirts and we ended
up working with 18 different universities,” Cotney said. “I grew that into a really big business, until collegiate licensing shut me down. I even was a Flight Attendant once, but I’m more of a scheduled person so that didn’t work too well.” She decided on real estate after the recommendation of her father. “My dad said I should either sell high-end cars or real estate. I knew Auburn wasn’t the fit for fancy cars, so I decided to go for real estate,” Cotney said. Cotney is seen all over Lee County popping in and out of listings, and she has taken to the world of social media, creating something new and lively for the real estate market. She is indeed rogue, paving new paths for local entrepreneurs and having every bit of fun along the way. “Someone called me rogue and I just went with it. It actually has a negative meaning but I saw it as more of a positive. Rogue is like not being vanilla. There are over 600 realtors in the Lee County area, so I knew I had to
do something different. I know nothing else but to be me, and me being me is rogue to everybody else.” “At one of my first listing appointments, someone asked me why I was wearing “hole-y” jeans. I remember thinking, ‘there are no other jeans.’ I was not going to wear a nametag and I wasn’t going to wear high heel shoes. I’m not doing any of that. I am me. That’s how my rogue thing took off. I do things a lot differently than everyone else does. It wasn’t intentional, it just happened that way,” Cotney added. Cotney is not one to skimp on honesty or creativity. She values happiness as well as using your own gifts and abilities to get the job done. “I love marketing homes and I do it really well. And honestly form the beginning I just didn’t know any better. I put the very conservative real estate world into a loop… I wasn’t breaking any rules, but I was doing something that not anyone had ever done before. I did not even think about it, I
media and website, small unmanned aerial system program; performing emergency coordination and serving as the coordinator/ instructor for the agency’s Community Emergency Response Team. Lee County EMA’s director position opened in November after longtime director Kathy Carson turned in her resignation letter to the commission after her mishandling of grant funding used to purchase an all-terrain vehicle which was not properly bid out by state laws. “This is an excellent position that I have here in Jef-
ferson County - I have great peers that I respect and a great director (James Coker) that I hope to emulate,” Tate said. “When the job came open though, it was certainly something that intrigued me about coming back to the Lee County area. We thought about it and prayed about it for a while and decided to go ahead and apply for the (position).” Although the commission has approved Tate’s hiring, contract negotiations must be completed before a starting date can be announced. When asked about his plans for the agency moving
forward, Tate said he looks forward to bringing long-term stability to the organization and putting a group in place that will work tirelessly to meet the needs of Lee County residents. “What (Coker) has allows us here in Jefferson County to do is work without being micromanaging but get it done at a high capacity. And that’s the same thing that I’ll expect from the staff in Lee County,” Tate said. He and Rebecca have two children, a 6-year-old daughter and 5-month-old son. For more information about Lee County EMA, visit www.leecoema.com.
See Cotney, page A6
will also be promoted to deputy director of public safety over communications and emergency management effective on March 1. Mathews is a 27-year veteran of the Auburn Police Division and has served as the section chief of the Auburn University Precinct since 2016. Mathews has been involved in disaster pre-
Fuller, from A1 years along with the prospective future growth the city is expected to experience during the duration of 2020. “We are so fortunate to live in a place where neighbors love neighbors and communities love communities,” Fuller said. The city is continuing to see economic growth, as 423 jobs were created in 2019 with a capital investment of $127.6 million. Fuller highlighted the success of retail in the Opelika area amongst Tiger Town, USA Town Center and Saugahatchee Square. In 2019, prominent businesses like Aldi and Chicken Salad Chick opened locations within the city limits. “2019 was one of our best years for job creations since 2006,” Fuller said, adding that $33.2 million in sales tax was generated last year. “In order to meet the increased work demands in Opelika, we partnered with Southern State Community College and Opelika Schools in the fall of 2019.” The new “Ready to Work” program creates a pathway for students to enter the work-field. In terms of singlefamily home development, there were 278 home permits, 380 family-ready lots and 386 lots under development in 2019. For 2020, there are 862 apartment units and 168 townhouses planned. Fuller highlighted the projected growth and success of Ope-
paredness efforts and risk/threat assessments for public and private community members including Auburn City Schools as well as Auburn University. Additionally, he played a leading role in technological advancements throughout his career by testing, procuring and implementing such improvements as in-car computers as well as radio and camera systems. “There are no finer employees anywhere than what we have here at the city of Auburn. Will and Cedric are proof of that,” said Auburn City Manager Jim Buston. “Congratulations to both of them, and I look forward to working with them in their new capacities.” For more information, visit news.auburnalabama.org. lika City Schools, advanced infrastructure and enhanced opportunities projected to happen this year. He encouraged the audience to “treat (others) with dignity, respect and inclusiveness.” Fuller shared multiple exciting features coming to the Opelika area such as new digital services that will allow contractors to apply for permits online, expanded maps on city official websites and free Wi-Fi in parks during operating hours. Along with these features, streetlights will be replaced with “smart lights,” which are energy-efficient LED lights that will dim or lighten depending on surrounding activity. Recreation in Opelika had several improvements and growth throughout 2019, including a new skate park, bathrooms and playground equipment. Before concluding his speech, Fuller stated that he has never seen such “energy” in regards to uniting in opposition for the proposed quarry. Some impacts of the quarry would include “damage to drinking water, a decrease of property value and an impact on local schools.” He encouraged citizens to write to ADEM expressing their concerns as well as request a public hearing. For more information on the quarry, Fuller encouraged attendees to visit www. opelika-al.gov. As Fuller prepares to run for his fifth term as mayor this fall, he stated what an “honor to serve (the community)” it has been.
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A4 Feb. 12, 2020
Traveling
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t’s a gray afternoon and we are traversing Alabama. Today, we make our run across the Yellowhammer State. My wife only ever pulls over to buy gas or let me pee. This is how we live. In the past years, we have traveled all over the U.S. doing my little one-man show, living on gas-station burritos, while our friend stays at our house watching the dogs. In the backseat is a guitar, along with all our hanging clothes. We travel, eat, work and sometimes sleep in our little white van, which resembles a plumber’s van. It’s the same kind of van driven by the LabCorp guy who visits your place of employment to collect urine samples. It’s not a masculine looking vehicle. It’s small, a four cylinder. When the engine revs it sounds like a little cat hacking up a hairball. In our years traveling we’ve become connoisseurs of gas station restrooms. We can simply look at a filling station and know whether the bathroom is going to be a total horror show. Like last week, a restroom in South Georgia took the grand prize. The men’s room urinal was detached and lying on
By Sean Dietrich the floor. And the commode had been removed so that there was nothing but a giant festering hole in the ground. And that’s not even the worst part. I waited in line to use this bathroom. But I couldn’t do it. My wife and I turned right back around and ran to the van. I told my wife, “Quick, find a cow pasture!” Believe me, I know I’m giving you too much information, but I’m only telling you that we have spent a lot of quality time in cow pastures together over the years. But anyway, when you travel you have to make do. Especially when it comes to creature comforts. That’s why we love our van. It’s sort of like our mini home. I’ve seen my wife take a bath in the backseat using nothing but a wet-wipe and a shot glass. I’ve changed my entire wardrobe in the front seat during Atlanta rush hour. There are paper cups
littered on the floorboards, bags of peanuts, empty Chili Cheese Fritos bags. We even brew our own coffee in this car. We do it with an electric coffee maker plugged into a cigarette lighter. Also, we always carry an electric cooler—which is basically a little refrigerator containing all the essentials anyone needs to survive after a full day of travel. Namely, beer. Also pimento cheese. You probably think I’m kidding about this. I rarely kid about beer. Sometimes we drive all night and when we sleep we steer with our feet. Often, we pull over in empty alfalfa fields, abandoned shopping complexes, or vacant filling station parking lots to make a sandwich. You never know what weird things you’re going to find on the side of the road. Once, we stopped at a vacant filling station outside Tuscaloosa to make sandwiches. I was getting stuff out of the cooler when I noticed something on the ground beneath me. A purple piece of clothing. I thought to myself, “Huh, this must be an article of my wife’s clothing that fell out of our car.” So I reached down to See Dietrich, page A6
A quest to capture the sun
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y mid-February, most have grown tired of winter winds and icy rain. Even here in the Southern states, winter’s chill has become dreaded and unwelcome. Within the studio, fellow artists express each one’s desire for warmer weather and sunny days. While a sunny day may invite someone to rearrange one’s wardrobe shifting winter sweaters and layers to light linens and cotton, the next day demands that one reach for the wool coat and scarf once again. As I write, the sun light peeks through, daffodils and Japanese magnolias are in bloom, but the late winter winds still blow. I have yet to abandon my winter layers but at last, I can see spring along the horizon. With a desire to rebel against this long winter, I set out in search of sunshine. A short distance from eastern-central Alabama, flows pristine gulf waters and a more certain chance for brilliant sun light. Time set aside to write and reflect was also on my “To-Do” list. On a cool winter Sunday, I began my drive. Through rural Alabama townships, the road
grows flat. With farmland immense, the trees grow short as Spanish moss clings to everything. Signs announce the beach ahead, and the clouds begin to clear. I select a mixed playlist of my favorite summer time tunes and continue my drive southward. Upon arrival, I do not accept the usual strip of surf shops, piers, golf-cart rental huts and high-rise condo towers as any sort of escape. I drive further west. In a remote area, a small distance from the major tourist attractions, I find an abandoned beachside parking lot. Having not been paved in years, the asphalt has broken away and sand returns allowing the beach to claim its once uninhabited domain. I park the car beneath the shade of a single palm tree and gather my things. Sun block protects my fair skin from the sun, and pants folded up present the opportunity to bury my feet in the soft sands. I reach for a favorite book, pen, journal and lastly, sunglasses. Pulling a scarf from around my neck, I drape it over my hair and toss it across my shoulders. For just a moment small frames from the classic motion picture “To
By Sarah West Catch a Thief” are brought to mind. The cool breezes, warm sunshine along with my blue and white nautical stripped scarf contribute to my fantasy that I am somewhere in the Mediterranean instead of one hour from the Alabama line. I cross the dunes and choose a flat spot about ten feet from the shoreline. As I sit down, my phone buzzes reminding me that civilization isn’t all that far away. A message flashes across the screen “Are you on a mountain top?” I can’t help but smile. It’s someone who knows me well. In most cases I would be “on a mountain top,” no doubt with camera, journal and hiking boots, somewhere exploring high above the peaks of Appalachia. But on this day, most of AppaSee West, page A6
YOUR DESTINATION for CONTINUED FINE ARTS EDUCATION STUDIO CLASSES | DRAWING, PAINTING & MORE for ALL AGES www.thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com
As spring break creeps up on us, here’s advice for Trip Advisor users
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rip Advisor is an online travel guide that is celebrating its 20th anniversary this month. It is one of many travel tip sites on the web. But it’s very popular, with revenues of $1.6 billion, total assets of $2 billion and 3,400 employees, as of 2018. For solid information about every venue big (Paris, France) or small (Paris, Texas), Trip Advisor is a helpful resource. All that information can seem as tough to navigate as the English Channel with weights on your feet. The eccentric scientist Dr. Emmitt Brown said to Marty McFly in “Back to the Future”: “Roads? Where we’re going, we don’t need roads.” For most of us, though, guidance or at least tips can aid in the use of Trip Advisor and as we plan for our next trip. For example, you can read in many descriptions that one of the Top Attractions is a lake. Every city is prideful of their lake or lakes. But do you really want to see every lake? Lake
By Greg Markley Michigan or Lake Ontario are big enough to spend time at, but some small lake? Spend your short holiday elsewhere. Neighborhood lakes are inviting for newcomers, but for travelers on a schedule, less so. The same goes for canyons—you can’t visit all 146 in the United States. Another statement like: “Oh, my, they have a Target in this city, and even a Dillards.” Where do these individuals live? Targets and Dillards can be found plenty of places. Why pick up something there to carry or ship when you can just drive 5-10 miles from home and get it when you return? A vacation means we “vacate” our
routines in the hopes of novelty. I don’t like it when people say they hate Atlanta (a terrific city of great cultural, educational and sporting opportunities) because of the traffic. I lived in Atlanta for five years; it is my favorite American city to have lived in. My first three years there, I saw only a bit of a.m. traffic—because I left for Army physical training at 5 a.m. from College Park. But even on the weekends, I went downtown after the busy time or on the very good public transit. After reading Trip Advisor, when you decide to go to a popular travel city, ask or research what the traffic rhythm of the city is. That’s very important in a place that suddenly grew by 50 to 60% over 10 years or so — Austin, Texas. When I used to come home from teaching in Columbus, the Monday to Thursday traffic after 8 p.m. was usually very slow. That was partly because of Fort Benning solSee Markley, page A6
The world according to bumper stickers
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he other day out on Highway 280 in Birmingham, I was passed by a jacked-up Ford 250, profusely decorated with chrome accessories and a single By Hardy Jackson bumper sticker that read ‘Bad ass girls “Beautify America, drive bad ass trucks’. get a haircut” expressed It went by so fast that the attitude at the other. I didn’t get a glimpse Printing bumper of her. stickers quickly became But it did get me big business for counthinking about bumper terculture capitalists stickers. who undermined the Although the bumper system by becoming sticker was invented in part of it. So it was that the 1940s to advertise the medium and the a variety of products, message came together I cannot recall seeing to not only promote any until the election causes, but identify of 1960, when my the car and driver with Daddy, a yellow-dog what the bumper esDemocrat, had a cluster poused. of Kennedy stickers. You can learn a lot He tried to give them about people from their to friends, but in a year bumper stickers. You when Dixie Democrats can learn who they vote were starting to vote for and who they don’t. (gasp!) Republican, The other day I saw a there were few takers. Trump sticker with the We were left with a “T” and the “p” blackstack of them. ened out so that it read When the votes were “rum, make America counted and Kennedy great again.” had won, Daddy began On the other hand, getting calls from this could have been a folks who wanted a promo for Bacardi . sticker and a seat on Then there is the the bandwagon. Daddy classic Kinky Friedman generously acceded to sticker – “Kinky for their request, and with Governor, why the hell the sticker gave them a not?” gentle lecture on Party And the ever popular loyalty. “Don’t blame me, I During the 60s, the voted for the other guy” bumper sticker became – or today one might a vehicle for social pro- read “the other girl.” test, and they were used Some bumper stickby both the left and ers contain inside jokes the right to advance a – “Metaphors be with message that was short, you” adorns the car of crisp and catchy. someone who is either “Make love not war” an English major, a was popular at one end Star Wars fan, or both. of the spectrum. In the world of bumper
stickers, you never can be sure. While politicians must endure the slings and arrows of just about everyone, dogs enjoy universal bumper sticker love. Consider the one that reads “Lord make me the person my dog thinks I am” – assuming of course that your dog thinks of you as a good person and not just the hand that feeds it. Meanwhile, insult is common currency in the bumper sticker world. “I had a lot to drink and you still don’t look good.” Which points to one of the major problems facing the bumper sticker industry – words. If there are too many, it is hard to read the message. Which led to the ever popular “if you can read this you are following too close.” And along with insult there is sarcasm, as expressed by my youngest daughter. When she saw a little round bumper sticker that read “26.2” to boast that the driver had run a marathon, she got her own little round bumper sticker that reads “0.0, I don’t run.” Ambiguity is the meat on which bumper sticker writers feed. Consider what has to be my all time favorite. Driving to Atlanta just after the 1996 Olympic Games ended, I stopped at the Georgia welcome station. There on a table was a host See Jackson, page A6
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A5 Feb. 12, 2020
Girl Scouts Of Southern Alabama seeking nominations for leading ladies Special to the Opelika Observer Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA) will host its Fourth Annual “Leading Ladies” event in April to celebrate women and organizations in southern Alabama that have distinguished themselves as outstanding members of the community through individual excellence and high levels of achievement. Nominations for Leading Ladies Award and the Leading Workplace for Women Award are open until March 3. Women selected for
the Leading Ladies Award exemplify quality leadership skills and outstanding community support, especially when they are directing those efforts to support the advancement of girls and women. GSSA proudly honored Major Gen. Sheryl Gordon as the 2019 Leading Lady. Previous nominees include Whitney Califf, Shawn Cole, Christy Crow, Helena Duncan, Allison Garrett, Lora McClendon, Ann Sikes and Julie Wriston. The Leading Workplace for Women Award recognizes an organization that supports and
encourages opportunities for women to develop leadership skills to further grow their careers. Equal opportunity in the workplace helps women reach their potential and allows the community to fully benefit. Leading Ladies gives GSSA an opportunity to demonstrate why investing in girls is so important and can change the world. Building future women leaders is at the core of their mission. The nominees will be honored with a reception at Wynlakes Golf and Country Club in Montgomery on April
28. For more information on how to nominate an employee or workplace, contact Alicia Schneider at aschneider@girlscoutssa.org or call 800-239-6636. About Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama serves more than 5,000 girls,
ages 5 to 17, and 2,500 adults who believe in the power of every G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader) to change the world. They are the preeminent leadership development organization for girls and have been for more than 100 years and a recent
recipient of the Montgomery Impact Maker Award. With programming across 30 counties, GSSA offers every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure and success. To volunteer, reconnect, donate or join, call 800239-6636 or visit www. girlscoutssa.org.
Auburn University’s Raymond J. Harbert College of Business offering free tax preparation services to the community Special to the Opelika Observer The Raymond J. Harbert College of Business at Auburn University and Impact America are pleased to announce that free tax preparation services for working families in Lee County are available at the Boykin Community Center in Auburn and Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church in Opelika. Services are available
to working families making up to $56,000/ year. In partnership with ASK Telemarketing, interested individuals should visit ImpactAmerica.com or call 1-888-99-TAXAL to schedule a free tax appointment. Tax services are provided by students from Auburn University.
The tax preparation service is aimed at assisting families eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The EITC is the federal government's largest and most successful antipoverty program for low-income, working families. However, each year, Lee County
families lose hundreds of thousands of dollars to commercial tax preparers simply to access this benefit. Kerry Inger, associate professor; Kimberly Key, professor and Mollie Mathis, assistant professor, all in the School of Accountancy, are coordinating the college’s participation in Impact America’s SaveFirst Initiative. Auburn has been involved in the SaveFirst Initiative for 13 years. Last
year, more than 600 trained students from twenty-one campuses prepared tax returns for more than 10,000 families at 23 free tax sites. Their campus collaboration helped these working families secure more than $21 million in tax refunds, saving them more than $5 million in commercial tax preparation fees. Alabama residents interested in scheduling a free tax preparation ap-
pointment should call 1-888-99-TAX-AL. For more information about free tax services, visit impactamerica.com/freetaxprep. Daytime, evening and Saturday hours for tax preparation are available at sites in Auburn and Opelika: Auburn – Boykin Community Center (400 Boykin St. in Auburn) Opelika – Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church (650 Jeter Ave. in Opelika).
Publix Super Market at Cary Creek makes $7,000 donation to Auburn-Opelika Habitat for Humanity Special to the Opelika Observer
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
Pictured above left to right: Assistant Customer Service Manager Kelli Ray, Auburn-Opelika Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Mark Grantham, Store Manager Craig Leckey and Customer Service Manager Carnikko Johnson; all from Publix Super Market at The Shoppes at Cary Creek in Auburn.
Last week, Publix Super Markets Charities presented Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity with a $7,000 check to sponsor Habitat Home #70. The PSMC foundation was established by founder George Jenkin to improve the lives of those in the community. They first began supporting Habitat for Humanity in 1989, and they have been a consistent supporter of this ministry nationwide ever since. They recently donated
$2.5 million to Habitat for Humanity affiliates, homeless shelters, and other nonprofits to provide housing to those in need and help build hope in our communities. Publix Super Markets Charities partners with their affiliate annually, and organization members truly appreciate their contributions to help us build homes for those in need. Thank you to both Publix stores for taking the time to present this check, and for consistently giving back to the community.
Opelika Lions members plan annual ‘Pancake Breakfast’
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Several members of the Opelika Lions Club went by City Hall recently selling tickets for the Annual Pancake Jamboree. The event will be held March 7 from 6 to 11 a.m. at Opelika Middle School, across from Opelika’s “Monkey Park.” Pictured left to right: Jim Allen, James Morgan, Jr., Gayron Davis, Brooka Stokes, Glenn Stokes, Mayor Gary Fuller, John Jenkins and Doug Hicks. Tickets may be purchased from any Opelika Lions Club member or at the door on the day of the event.
pelika O Opinion
A6 Feb. 12, 2020
Key tax deductions for this year’s returns
T
he 2019 standard deduction increased to $12,200 for single filers, $18,350 for heads of household and $24,400 for married filers. The standard deduction is an amount of money, based on your filing status, that you earn “tax free” each year. The IRS has increased those amounts again for 2020, so fewer taxpayers will itemize their deductions going forward. However, millions of taxpayers will still itemize deductions. While the majority of taxpayers will use the standard deduction this year, most states (including Alabama) have not made significant changes to their tax laws. So, even if you are not eligible to itemize your deductions on your federal income tax, you should retain all your traditional documents such as mortgage interest statements and charitable contributions. They will likely impact your state taxes and help reduce your state tax burden. Additionally, some tax deductions are referred to as “adjustments to income.” These do not require you to itemize deductions to get a tax break. Popular adjustments to income include the following: 1. The tuition and fees deduction is back – up to $4,000 to help cover higher education. This deduction is perfect for taxpayers with children in dual enrollment courses who don’t want to use the American Opportunity Credit because their kids aren’t full-time college students yet. 2. Student loan interest up to $2,500. 3. Contributions to tra-
Cotney, from A3 was just trying to get my name out there and it worked. I’m going to have fun, because if I don’t then I’m not creative. And that’s important to me even in real estate,” Cotney said. She has become a leading fixture in our community mostly due to social media. She has used it to its greatest advantage and has grown a brand and a name for herself among the locals. “I have a really big passion for the power of social media. Powerful in a good way and a bad way, but I follow the good way. I love giving a shout out to other entrepreneurs and I love helping people. What comes around, goes around. I want to show people that you can be a good business person but still be charismatic.”
West, from A4 lachia was under another winter storm advisory, a considerable contrast from the scene before me. I respond to the message with a humorous “Nope. I’m on a beach.” Placing my phone and all technological devices in my bag, I disconnect. The crashing
Justin Smith ditional Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) – up to $6,000 per taxpayer, or $7,000 if you are over 50 years old. 4. Educator expenses up to $250 per taxpayer. 5. Self-employment taxes – you can deduct 50% of self-employment taxes paid. 6. Self-employed medical insurance – you can deduct the value of medical, dental and vision insurance premiums if you are self-employed and pay these costs. 7. Qualified Income Business Deduction (QBID) – the small business owner’s best friend. You can deduct up to 20% of your company profits. This is the second year of the new deduction and has proven incredibly valuable for small business owners. Key itemized deductions may still inflate your state tax refund even if you take the larger federal standard deduction: 1. Charitable contributions up to 60% of your adjusted gross income. Consider bunching charitable contributions in a single year, then taking the larger standard deduction in the following year, to maximize your refund. You may also want to think about setting up a Donor Advised Fund with
a financial services firm to help guide and direct your charitable contributions over time, while still obtaining a tax break now. 2. Mortgage interest – you can deduct the interest on up to $750,000 of your home mortgage debt for loans taken out after Dec. 15, 2017. If the loan is older, the prior $1 million limit still applies. 3. Private Mortgage Insurance in addition to your mortgage interest is deductible through 2020. 4. Home equity loan interest – now only deductible if you use the loan for your home or related improvements (houseboat – yes; fishing boat – no). 5. Property taxes – together with your state and local taxes, limited to $10,000. 6. Medical/Dental costs – deductible above 7.5% of your adjusted gross income for 2019. 7. Automobile ad valorem taxes – don’t forget to snap a photograph of your car registration. This is a commonly overlooked deduction that can pad your refund. Tax laws are complicated and there are limits and nuances to each item listed above, so it’s important to keep in mind that your federal and state taxes have different rules. If in doubt, ask your tax preparer to determine whether a particular item is deductible. Justin Smith is a licensed certified public accountant in Opelika, specializing in individual and small business tax and accounting. He can be contacted at 334-400-9234 or Justin@ JSmithCPA.net. His web site is www.jsmithcpa.net.
Cotney is seen by her peers in real estate as a branding and marketing expert. She attends speaking events in our home state of Alabama but has traveled as far as Idaho, leading others into the savvy world of social media marketing. On the flip side, Cotney was quick to tell me that she is not driven by the American dollar. “I’m driven by making a little bit of a difference in the world. I want to let people know you don’t have to be in a box. You can be your authentic self. That’s real important to me. You’re not a tree, you can move. You can be whatever you want to be, creating different and new things. I always think, what can I do to make a difference? I want to make a dent and leave a legacy,” Cotney said. Cotney also points out that it hasn’t always been rainbows and unicorns for her.
“I’ve had not so good places too, but that has allowed me to relate to a bunch of different types of people. I see parts of my past as ways to understand people that I would not have otherwise. I’m very open minded, that’s how I was raised. I always try to say something nice to someone and remind other people they’re doing great too.” At the end of the day, it is the personal experience by the home buyer or seller that truly makes Cotney’s work come full circle. “My happy in real estate is helping that person find that perfect fit home. Helping families buy or sell, whatever their need is and making it as easy as I can… It’s community and if you give back to your community, they’re going to give back to you. That’s a win. I feel lucky to be here, to have this job every day, that I love,” Cotney said.
of the waves entertains. The water shimmers like blown glass, reminding me of my favorite glass studio [Orbix Hot Glass, located along the canyon rim near Fort Payne, high atop Lookout Mountain]. Hues of green and blue sparkle like sapphires and emeralds beneath the afternoon sun. Young seagulls dance along the shoreline. Their speed as they scavenge while running in between
intervals of waves is remarkable. I reach for my journal, knowing such scenes must be captured and savored. I write out a few notations and then I turn to a favorite book. “Every Day in Tuscany” is just one of my many treasured books by notable author Frances Mayes, an author possessing just as pleasant a personality as the books that she writes. Her books have a magi-
Markley, from A4 diers having to get up early most weekdays; and also because many were already home in Lee County, Alabama. Another consideration readers of Trip Advisor and other travel publications forget is “Timing, Timing, Timing.” I learned when I lived in Germany in the mid-1990s in a city that had 60 museums, that timing was everything if you wanted to enjoy world-class museums. When a museum or other attraction opens say at 10 a.m., buses appear from everywhere, like a swarm of bees. Even with an early admit ticket, you will still have to negotiate some groups of tourists. Another trick I apply a lot as someone over 60 is to go to highlighted places in the early a.m. (I mean between 5:30 and 6:30 a.m.). For
Dietrich, from A4 pick it up. As soon as I touched it, my hand mushed into something warm. I knew I’d made a mistake. It was a pair of purple Dora the Explorer underpants that were filled with a substance plentiful in most barnyards and diaper bins. And because this is a family column, I will refrain from saying anything more about these Purple Underpants from Hell. I’ll simply tell you that I flung the garment into the air and screamed like a man who’d just grabbed a handful of apple butter. My wife leapt out of the driver’s seat and said, “What happened? Are you hurt?” “AAAGGGHHH!” was my response. I was running in circles, holding my violated right hand in the air. I do not have a strong stomach and I have an extremely sensitive gag
Jackson, from A4 of free Olympic stuff, including a bumper sticker that read “NO GRITS, NO GLORY.” I grabbed one and put it on my pickup. It stayed there until my son inherited the
cal yet realistic presence. They offer the reader a glimpse into a life filled with both spontaneity and a sincere appreciation for life’s simple pleasures paired with challenge and triumph. With the turn of a page on a cloudy day, sun light appears as one is transported to the Tuscan province of Italy and beyond… reading the author’s poetic descriptions of basil or lavender
example, when in St. Louis, MO, walk downtown at the times I said, but check the crime situation. Take photos of the Gateway Arch at sunrise. Why wait for afternoon to get close to the Seattle Space Needle? Take a few pictures there outside at 6 a.m. or so, and add three or four hours to your sightseeing times that you saved early today. It is a truism with me as well as many others travelers, that we over-plan. We are excited about the vacation so much we think we should hit every nook and cranny of our host city. For example, there are natural history museums in every state, with another one or two at major universities in each state, and in a number of private collections. Let zoologists and science students be enthralled by visiting two natural history museums; you can live with one.
One more thing: it is embarrassing to see a traveler asking dumb questions of tour guides, such as: “Was this city involved in the Civil War?” on a tour of Richmond, Virginia. By reading about the place you are visiting, you understand a guide’s spiel, and you can know when they are just reading from Wikipedia. So why pay for that? FYI: Spring Break at Auburn University will be March 7 to 14 and at Southern Union it is March 9 to 14. I hope you all have good adventures or at least get a break from studying. Expect more on traveling from me before you head out. Greg Markley has lived in Lee County for 18 of the last 23 years. An awardwinning journalist, he has masters degrees in education and history. He has taught as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama.
reflex. How sensitive is this reflex? Dentists fear me. But being on the road isn’t all that bad. We don’t live a glamorous life—we drive a LabCorp van for God’s sake. But my wife and I have been lucky enough to live a pauper’s dream. We’ve seen the sun come up over the Arizona desert. We’ve watched the wind turbines in Texas. We’ve been soaked by rain in Seattle. We’ve done Appalachia in autumn. Kansas in the Summer. The Carolinas in the snow. We’ve eaten pierogis in Buffalo. I’ve pulled the old traveling man’s trick of ironing my clothes by placing them beneath my motel mattress. I’ve eaten enough gas station food to endanger my lower-intestinal health. We never unpack our suitcases. We simply live out of them, even when we’re at home. No wife wants to live this way, I know that. No little girl grows up
dreaming of marrying a fool who drives a utility van all over creation. She has given up her comforts to spend life on a highway with her mildly eccentric husband. I think about this a lot. Chances are she will read this tomorrow morning. When she does I want her to know that being stuck in this little white van together, visiting open pastures, and living in hotels has been the second greatest adventure of my life. The first great adventure was loving her. The third greatest adventure was definitely the purple underpants thing. Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and novelist, known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Southern Living, the Tallahassee Democrat, Southern Magazine, Yellowhammer News, the Bitter Southerner, the Mobile Press Register and he has authored seven books.
truck 10 years later. He immediately stripped it off. “Why did you do that?” I asked. “ ‘Cause it didn’t make any sense,” he replied. He was right of course. Nearly every day for those ten years I would look at that bumper sticker and wonder.
Now that it’s gone, I wonder still. A good bumper sticker will make you think. Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Professor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville State University. He can be reached at hjackson@cableone. net.
you feel as though you can at that very moment savor the aroma. And with the turn of another page, you feel compelled to run home reach for the olive oil, fresh herbs and wine and cook up something divine. The evening sun begins its descent over the gulf waters casting reflections similar to diamonds. The breezes blow, and I am reminded of the time. At
day’s end, my spirit is renewed by the warmth of the sun. Looking forward to my rural drive home, I point the car north and watch as the sun sleepily drifts beneath the horizon to the west. Shadows dance across the fields, evening falls and winters chill returns to the night sky. Like shoreline sands captured in a bottle I carry with me the warmth of the sun.
Opelika E vents, Society, & Food
CALENDAR OF EVENTS: • Feb. 14 - OTC’s Murder Mystery Dinner Theater • Feb. 14 - Valentine’s Day Supp er Club at The Sound Wall • Feb. 14 and 15 - Daddy-Daughter Dance at the Opelika SportsPlex
Mary Ann Swanson creates scrumptious desserts for Valentine’s Day Ann Cipperly’s
Southern
Hospitality
O
n Valentine’s Day, what better way to express love and caring than with a homemade confection. Mary Ann Swanson has a love for cooking and enjoys creating special desserts for her family and friends. Whether she is hosting bridge or her Bible study group during the month of February, Swanson creates an attractive presentation of yummy desserts with a Valentine theme. Swanson enjoys entertaining and does it with ease, whether it is dinner, brunch,
luncheon or an afternoon of bridge. When arriving at her home for an occasion, the table is always elegantly set with intricate linens purchased on travels to Europe. Silver and crystal accruements enhance the ambience. For creating centerpieces and arrangements, Swanson will select flowers from her garden or combine purchased flowers with fresh greenery. When she held a graduation party for a granddaughter, she ordered 100 peach and cream roses for creating several lav-
ish floral arrangements throughout the house. Swanson’s family believes she is “the hostesses with the mostest.” When her granddaughter, Lindsey Beno Aiken, who inherited her love for cooking, was 10 years old, she cross-stitched a little plaque with “The Greatest Cook on Earth.” When Aiken was a student at Auburn University, she organized a cooking club. She placed notices around campus, and 75 students attended the first meeting. She invited local chefs to speak at the
Photo by Ann Cipperly For Valentine’s themed desserts for a bridge group, Mary Ann Swanson assembled plates with Chocolate Covered Strawberries, Strawberry Pretzel Dessert, Strawberries Romanoff and Heart-Shaped Sandwiches. She finished the plates with heart-shaped chocolates, roasted pecans and cheese straws. Look over the recipes to prepare yummy desserts for your family and friends this Valentine’s Day.
meetings, but the first speaker was her grandmother, who spoke on cooking for family and entertaining. Swanson grew up in Columbus, Georgia. where her father was a patternmaker at the Iron Works. When she came home from school, her mother would use pans
her father made for baking tarts. “My mother was a fabulous southern cook,” Swanson said, “but she enjoyed it so much that she never taught me. I did lots of telephoning after I married and developed a style much like my mother’s. She was very
talented with cooking and sewing. “She did not have the resources that I have, but she always set a lovely table and was a great hostess. Every mouthful of food from her table was to be savored. I owe her so much.” See Recipes, page A11
City of Auburn to host fourth The Sound Wall to host annual ‘Mardi Gras Parade’ Feb. 22 Valentines-themed Supper
Club event Feb. 14 Special to the Opelika Observer Celebrate Valentine’s Day with your valentine on Feb. 14 at The Sound Wall in downtown Opelika. Local Executive Chef Jerome Harrell will be creating a special menu for this event which will include two main See Sound Wall, page A8
Special to the Opelika Observer The fourth annual Mardi Gras Parade will take place on Feb. 22 at 2:30 p.m. in downtown Auburn. Streets along the parade route will close beginning at 2 p.m. The parade will begin at the intersection of Thach Avenue and College Street, travel east on Thach, north on Gay Street, west on Tichenor Avenue, south on College Street and will finish back at the intersection of Thach Avenue and College Street. All streets will reopen after the parade with the exception of Magnolia Avenue
between College and Gay, which will remain closed until 5 p.m. Any cars parked along the parade route and not removed by 2
p.m. will be blocked until the parade is over. For more information, visit www.news. auburnalabama.org.
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pelika O Observer
A8 Feb. 12, 2020
Lee County Cemetery Preservation Commission dispels rumors surrounding County Line Cemetery Report submitted by the Lee County Cemetery Preservation Commission A recent myth came to light about a supposed witch in Lee County, and this article intends to dispel that notion and shed light on the real problems that exist there. The cemetery is located off Lee Road 252, also known as Mountain Springs Road. Trespassing, broken grave markers, and excessive acts of vandalism have happened at County Line. This cemetery was recently visited in the dark of night by four men and one woman, each carrying a flashlight, who may have been duped into believing that this was “Witch’s Road.” These rumors originate from misinformation that a grave shed in the cemetery covers a witch’s grave. There is not and has never been a witch at County Line Cemetery. Following is the history and facts pertaining to the cemetery. More than 180 years ago, there was a group of men who constituted County Line Church on Oct. 5, 1838. There were four resolutions listed as follows
for the church: “1st, Resolved. That this Church look upon the divisions of the Baptist denomination with mortification and deep concern, and lament that such unhappy divisions do exist. 2d, Resolved. That the spread of the Gospel is a Bible doctrine taught by Christ and practiced by the Apostles. 3d, Resolved. That the diligent use of the names with which God has blessed us in the spread of the Gospel, in the performance of charitable end benevolent acts, in advancing the Kingdom of Christ on the Earth, and in bettering the condition of men in the discharge of Christian duty, and cannot be immoral in itself or repugnant to the Bible, and therefore cannot be a sufficient cause for breach of fellowship among brethren of the same heavenly parentage. 4th, Resolved. That this church recommend to all the members to lay down all feeling on the subject and not to indulge iniquity in their hearts, but rather that we cultivate Christian love, peace, and harmony; also, that we allow every brother or sister, as the case may be, to act according to the dictates of their own conscience, in giving or not giving in support of the Gospel at home or in a foreign land.”
Seven years later on Dec. 3, 1845, County Line Baptist Church’s deed was recorded. Following is the first sentence on the deed: “To all whom it may concern know ye that I Reuben Aldridge of the State of Alabama and County of Russell, having a desire for the prosperity of the Redeemer’s Cause on Earth’” then the document gives the land and describes it. The Redeemer’s Cause of Earth was a Christian description from 1845 to worship Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Numerous entries in the church minutes tell of efforts to shape a congregation’s behavior in Christian faith with firm morals and good behavior. Furthering the myth is the outright lie that the grave shed at County Line was over a witch’s grave. The original grave shed, which was burned by vandals, was over the grave of a child. This sad story attracted the attention of one of Lee County’s finest. A boy scout proposed a project to earn his Eagle Award by rebuilding the shed, which took nearly a to complete. The finished shed was put in place in summer 2019, only to be damaged by vandals around New Year’s.
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Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Members of the Lee County Cemetery Preservation Commission, volunteers, and friends have been researching families who lived in this community for a book to be published soon. They have copies of the church membership roll and minutes. When this book is finished, the remaining proceeds will go to covering the cost of repairs. Many Lee County Christian pioneers are at rest there. From these pioneers are many descendants in the Lee County area. More volunteers have pieced back together the de-
stroyed ledgers while others made the repairs. There remains much more to be done toward repairs of prior vandal destruction. Even two stacked rock graves, a custom to honor important members of the community, were also destroyed. Interest in “witches” is a dark side of society. However, there is nothing whatsoever in the history of Lee County that we have found that gives any validity to such nonsense in any cemetery. Destroying the property of others and vandalizing graves are crimes. Don’t do it!
The Lee County Sheriff’s deputies will arrest and likely prosecute or convict those who are caught trespassing or desecrating the cemetery. Commission members will request Lee County District Attorney Brandon Hughes to seek restitution against those who are guilty of these offenses. To any trespasser or vandal who may read this article, commission members suggest that they rethink the consequences of such deplorable actions. Stop this criminal behavior and let those who came before us rest in peace.
pelika O Opinion
A9 Feb. 12, 2020
‘2nd Annual Opelika Songwriters Festival’ promises weekend full of high-caliber live music downtown Special to the Opelika Observer Kick back and relax with the “2nd Annual Opelika Songwriters Festival” in historic downtown Opelika from March 27 to 29. The festival will entertain music fans at multiple venues across the downtown area, including John Emerald Distillery, Sneak & Dawdle, Irish Bred Pub, Eighth & Rail, Ma Fia’s (patio), The Depot Outdoor Stage, Zazu Gastro Pub and Studio
3:19. Rob and Jen Slocumb (of the husbandand-wife folk/rock duo Martha’s Trouble and owners of Opelika recording studio/event center The Sound Wall) are bringing the new festival to life. The Opelika Songwriters Festival is a co-production of The Sound Wall and The Arts Association of East Alabama. More than 30 singer-songwriters attended last year’s inaugural event, from local acts to interna-
tional touring artists, including Grammy Award-winner Dan Navarro, Kate Campbell, Harpeth Rising, and many more. This year’s lineup includes: -The War & Treaty -Dark Water -Shawn Mullins -Dan Navarro -Kim Richey -Jeff Black -Sarah Lee Guthrie -Leigh Nash -Grayson Capps -Charlie Mars -Steve Poltz -Abe Partridge -Adam Hood
-Sugarcane Jane -SZLACHETKA -Pierce Pettis and -Martha’s Trouble. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased via www. eventbrite.com. The 3-day pass is $125; the 3-day VIP pass is $225 and includes a buffet-style brunch and an up-close and personal “in-theround” concert with three festival artists. These tickets and VIP passes are limited, so guests are encouraged to make their purchases as soon as possible.
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pelika Observer O
A10 Feb. 12, 2020
International ballet group to perform at the OPAC on Feb. 18 Special to the Opelika Observer Les Ballet Trocadero de Monte Carlo will perform at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts on Feb. 18 at 7:30 p.m., a show made possible by the Arts Association of East Alabama. Les Ballet Trocadero de Monte Carlo is a really good joke - no, a really, really good joke! Combining finely developed classical technique and dancing en pointe - all the while making fun of it all in hilarious parodies of the great ballets of the ages -
the Trocks are the complete package. This all-male, highly tutu’d, gravity-defying, dance troupe is sought after in cities across the world by fans who clamor to see them again and again. Tickets are $30 each and can be purchased at www.eastalabamaarts.org. For more information, call 334749-8105 or visit their website. The venue is located within Opelika High School at 1700 Lafayette Parkway.
Horseshoe Bend announces temporary park closure also be made available outside the front door of the visitor center. “The park regrets having to close the visitor center temporarily, but it is necessary for the safety of our visitors and staff. Please continue to enjoy the park grounds, boat launch, tour road, and picnic area while we improve our facilities,” said Park Superintendent Barbara Tagger. The Visitor Center is expected to reopen on March 23 at 9 a.m., but staff urges
Special to the Opelika Observer Horseshoe Bend National Military Park’s Visitor Center will temporarily close for renovation beginning Feb. 17 for nearly five weeks. The park grounds, including the boat ramp, tour road, nature trail and restroom facilities, will remain open during normal operating hours, and rangers will be on duty. Park brochures including a map of the park will
visitors to check the park’s website at www. nps.gov/hobe/conditions. htm before planning their visit. For more information, call 256-234-7111. The staff at Horseshoe Bend National Military Park appreciates the public’s patience and understanding, like and follow the park’s Facebook page or visit www.nps.gov/hobe. The park is located 12 miles north of Dadeville on Alabama Highway 49.
The Sound Wall to host benefit concert for Redeeming Grace Ministries on Feb. 22 Special to the Opelika Observer The Sound Wall will be hosting Dave Potts on Feb. 22 for a benefit concert for Redeeming Grace Ministries. An Auburn resident, Potts is a singer-songwriter known for “crafting contemporary folk songs with shades of country and Americana, infused with Southern charm.” Located in Lee County, Redeeming Grace Ministries “exists to train and equip people
to live a life of everlasting recovery through Jesus Christ.” According to a description on the ministry’s website, the organization’s “vision is to create a program that will bridge the gap between rehabs and prison and long-term successful, independent sober living, then expand to include a best-practices recovery phase. (They) intend to create a campus that will start with a transitional living home, expand to a transitional ‘village’ and educational
building, then add a recovery home for women, and finally a separate recovery home for mothers with their children. (They) believe that the Lord has called us to teach women in a handson-way how to live a transformed life that only Jesus makes possible!” Admission is free but a love offering will be available for those wanting to make donations during the event. For more information, visit www.soundwallopelika.com. The venue is located at 605 Ave. B.
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pelika O Observer Cipperly, from A7 For Valentine’s themed desserts for a bridge group, Swanson assembled plates with Chocolate Covered Strawberries, Strawberry Pretzel Dessert, Strawberries Romanoff and Heart-Shaped Sand-
Recipes Strawberries Romanoff 2 pints strawberries 1/2 cup sugar 1/3 cup Grand Marnier (orange liqueur) Rind of one orange Combine ingredients in a bowl; marinate for 2 hours. Place strawberries in a parfait glass. Top with whipping cream. The strawberries are also good served over ice cream. French Cream Crepes with Raspberry Sauce 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup flour 2 cups milk 4 eggs, beaten 2 Tbsp. butter 1 tsp. vanilla 8 - 10 crepes In a saucepan, combine sugar and flour. Stir in milk. Cook on low heat, stirring constantly until thick. Remove from heat. Stir small amount off mixture into beaten eggs, then return to the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring for about 2 minutes. Stir in butter and vanilla. Cool. Make crepes and then shape each into a loose roll. Serve with raspberry sauce. Sauce: 10 oz. pkg. frozen raspberries ¼ cup sugar 2 Tbsp. cornstarch Whipped cream Thaw berries. In small saucepan combine sugar and cornstarch. Stir in raspberries with juice. Cook over low heat until thick. Cool. Spoon over crepes and top with whipped cream. Heart-Shaped Sandwiches Loaf of cinnamon raisin bread, strawberry bread or favorite nut bread, sliced Cream cheese, softened Make sandwiches with cream cheese. Use a heartshaped cookie cutter to cut into small sandwiches. Strawberry Pretzel Dessert ¾ cup butter ¼ cup brown sugar 2 ½ cups crushed pretzels 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened 8 oz. carton Cool Whip 1 cup sugar 6 oz. pkg. strawberry Jell-O 2 cups boiling water 10 oz. pkg. frozen strawberries Melt butter and add ¼ cup brown sugar and combine with the pretzels. Press into bottom of greased 9x13 inch baking dish and bake at 400 degrees for 7 minutes. Cool. Combine cream cheese, Cool Whip and 1 cup
A11 Feb. 12, 2020
wiches. Roasted pecans, heart-shaped chocolates and cheese straws completed the delightful tasting. On another occasion, Swanson made Chocolate Chimichangas, which looked like stuffed crepes, for a Bible study. A chocolate bar was placed in the center of flour tortillas and then folded.
The warm tortillas were topped with vanilla ice cream and raspberry sauce. The dessert was easy to prepare and delicious. Recently, she treated friends to French Cream Crepes with Raspberry Sauce. If you don’t have time to make crepes for a Valentine’s dessert,
Mary Ann’s Chocolate Covered Strawberries can be prepared in a few minutes. If you are in a hurry, you can place the chocolate dipped strawberries in the refrigerator to set. The strawberries can be decorated without a pastry bag. Simply melt white chocolate (or dark if the strawberries are dipped in white choco-
late) in the microwave. Place in a plastic bag and cut the end of one corner, then quickly drizzle over dipped berries. While we want to celebrate loved ones every day, Valentine’s is a time to do something special for those you love. Children and grandchildren can help dip strawberries or bake
brownies, and it creates happy memories. Make this Valentine’s Day memorable with a scrumptious dessert. Don’t forget to share your homemade treats with others, including a shut-in, who would receive much joy for being remembered. Cipperly can be reached at recipes@ cipperly.com.
sugar; spread over cooled pretzel crust. Combine Jell-O, water and strawberries; mix well. Cool in refrigerator for about 30 minutes and pour over cream cheese layer. Chill until set. Cut in squares.
Drizzle jelly mixture on top of ladyfingers, then put whipped cream mixture on top. Add one ladyfinger on top of whipped cream, drizzle jelly and add whipped cream as the final topping. Refrigerate until serving.
cooking spray; sprinkle evenly with sugar. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly toasted. Cool. Stir together ice cream, cookie chunks and 1/3 cup pecans. Spoon into piecrust. Freeze 10 minutes. Press remaining cookie chunks and pecans evenly on top. Cover with plastic wrap; freeze 8 hours. Drizzle slices with chocolate syrup.
chocolate chips down the center. Be aware that a little goes a long way. Remove crepe from pan and roll up like a taco. Pour just a little Karo syrup across crepes and top with strawberries and whipped cream. Basic Crepe Batter 1 cup flour 1½ cups milk 2 eggs 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil ¼ tsp. salt Combine flour, milk, eggs, oil and salt. Beat with a whisk until blended well. With a ladle, pour batter into a thin circle on greased pan and quickly spread in circular motion to the size crepe you want. Let sit for about 30 seconds. Remove from pan and let cool.
beating at low speed until blended. Gradually add flour, beating until blended. Stir in nuts, if using. Pour into a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into squares. Dust with powdered sugar to garnish, if desired.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries Strawberries with stems Semisweet chocolate, chopped Rinse strawberries and pat dry. Do not remove stems. Melt chocolate in the microwave on high for one minute. Remove, stir and microwave a few seconds more until melted. Hold strawberries by the stem and dip bottom half into melted chocolate, twisting the strawberry. Place on waxed or parchment paper. Allow chocolate to set before serving. Chocolate Molten Cupcakes with Powdered Sugar & Strawberries Mary Ann’s granddaughter, Lindsey Beno Aiken, enjoys making these special cupcakes. 5 eggs 2 Tbsp. flour 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup butter 1¾ cups extra-dark chocolate 1 pinch salt Chopped strawberries Melt butter and chocolate together on stove. In a separate bowl, mix eggs, sugar and salt. Mix butter-chocolate and egg mixture together. Slowly add flour through a sifter while continuously mixing. Pour mixture about 3/4 full into a cupcake holder. Put in 350 degree oven for 15 minutes (keep an eye on it, these are extremely easy to over cook). When cooked, place on a tray and add powdered sugar onto the cupcakes through a sifter. Add chopped strawberries to top. Lindsey’s Raspberry Tiramisu 1 pkg. ladyfingers ¼ cup seedless raspberry jelly 1 Tbsp. orange liqueur ½ cup whipping cream ¼ cup sugar Melt jelly in microwave for about 20 seconds and stir in liquor. Beat cream and sugar with electric mixer until fluffy. Use any type of parfait glass and put two ladyfingers at the bottom of each glass.
Chocolate Chimichangas with Raspberry Sauce 6 milk chocolate candy bars 6 10-inch flour tortillas Vegetable oil Raspberry Sauce Vanilla ice cream Place each candy bar just below the center of each tortilla. Fold bottom of tortilla up and over candy bar just until partially covered. Fold, left to right sides of tortilla over, roll up and place seam side down on baking sheet. Freeze 30 minutes. In a skillet, place two tortillas at a time, seam side down in 1-inch hot oil; fry 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels. Serve with ice cream and Raspberry Sauce. Can prepare tortillas ahead and reheat in oven for a few minutes. Raspberry Sauce 10 oz. pkg. frozen raspberries, thawed ½ cup sugar 3 Tbsp. lemon juice 1 Tbsp. orange liqueur, optional 1 tsp. cornstarch Combine first 3 ingredients and orange liqueur, if desired, in a saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes or until mixture begins to thicken. Remove from heat; cool. Press mixture through wire-mesh strainer into a small saucepan, using the back of a spoon to squeeze out juice. Whisk cornstarch into juice; bring a boil and cook 1 to 2 minutes until thickened. Can store in refrigerator up to 3 days. Mocha Pecan Mud Pie ½ cup chopped pecans Vegetable cooking spray 1 tsp. sugar 1 pint regular or light coffee ice cream, softened 1 pint regular or light chocolate ice cream, softened 1 cup coarsely chopped cream-filled chocolate cookies, divided 1 ready-made chocolate crumb piecrust 2 Tbsp. chocolate syrup Place pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet coated with
Raspberry and Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened 12 (3/4-inch thick) slices day old brioche, challah or other egg bread 1 cup fresh or frozen berries 3 eggs, beaten ¾ cup half and half or milk 3 Tbsp. sugar ½ tsp. vanilla Dash salt Maple syrup or maple flavored syrup, optional Spread cream cheese evenly over one side of each slice of bread. Top half of slices with raspberries. Top with remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down to make sandwiches. Combine half and half, sugar, vanilla and salt in shallow bowl. Dip sandwiches into mixture, turning to coat both sides. Place sandwiches in greased 15 by 10 inch baking pan. Bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes or until golden brown, turning after 10 minutes. Serve with maple syrup, if desired. Makes 6 servings. Strawberry Bread For Valentine’s Day, cut into heart shapes. 2 cups chopped strawberries 3 cups flour 1¼ cup sugar 4 ½ tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. salt 4 eggs 2/3 cup canola oil 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 Tbsp. lemon zest In one bowl add flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Mix together. In another bowl whisk together eggs, canola oil, vanilla extract and lemon zest. Gently add strawberries. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients. Place batter in two greased 4 x 8-inch baking pans in 350 degree oven for one hour or until done. Chocolate Strawberry Crepes When the batter has cooked for about 15 seconds, sprinkle miniature
Champagne Floats Lindsey Beno Aiken 1 bottle Champagne 1 qt. strawberry or raspberry sorbet Fresh strawberries or raspberries for garnish Place one scoop sorbet in glass and pour Champagne on top. Garnish with berries. Serve immediately. Seaside Brownies 1 cup butter 4 (1-oz.) unsweetened chocolate squares 3 large eggs 2 cups sugar 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional Powdered sugar for garnish Melt butter and chocolate squares in a heavy saucepan over low heat. Beat eggs and sugar at medium-high speed with an electric mixer 8 minutes. Gradually add chocolate mixture,
Baked Brie with Raspberry Jelly 8 oz. round Brie 2 Tbsp. raspberry jelly 1 piecrust dough Place Brie in center of piecrust. Spread jelly on side and top of Brie. Pull up sides of the piecrust and wrap Brie until it is fully covered. Bake in oven for 40 minutes on 350 degrees. Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Yogurt Cupcakes Lindsey Beno Aiken 12 vanilla wafers 8 oz. regular or 1/3 reduced fat cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 6 oz. vanilla Greek yogurt 2 large egg whites 3 Tbsp. lemon juice 1 Tbsp. lemon zest 1 Tbsp. all-purpose flour 24 blackberries Line cupcake tin with liners. Place a vanilla wafer at the bottom of each liner. Gently beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually beat in yogurt, egg whites, lemon juice, lemon zest and flour. Do not over beat. Pour into cupcake liners, filling halfway. Bake 25 minutes or until center is almost set on 350 degrees. Cool to room temperature. Chill a few hours in the refrigerator. Garnish with blackberries.
Food Ratings Subway 7730 Alabama Hwy 51, Beauregard Score: 100 Chicken Salad Chick 1310 Wilmore Drive Auburn Score: 100 J.R.’s Steakhouse Downtown 9571 Lee Road 246 Smiths Station Score: 100 Kitchen 3810 3810 Pepperell Parkway Opelika Score: 100 The Dukes 2969 Lee Road 380 Valley Score: 99 Chickchickporkpork Grill 3810 Pepperell Parkway Opelika Score: 97
Hibachi Sushi and Grill Buffet 3903 Pepperell Parkway Opelika Score: 97 El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant 814 Geneva St. Opelika Score: 96 Asian Supermarket 3750 Pepperell Parkway Opelika Score: 96 Mi Poblanita Market 3708 Pepperell Parkway Opelika Score: 96 Mandarin House 3800 Pepperell Parkway Opelika Score: 95 Wok ‘N Roll 1703 Columbus Parkway Opelika Score: 87
pelika O Observer
A12 Feb. 12, 2020
OBITUARIES Shannon Dale Wester Shannon Dale Wester, 50, passed away February 5, 2020 peacefully at this home. He was born April 11, 1969 in Fullerton, California to Dale Wester and Terry Deakins. He grew up in the town of Dunedin, Florida where he graduated high school at Dunedin High. He then moved to Yorba Linda, California where he attended college at Orange
Mr. Bennie Legree Wise Mr. Bennie Legree Wise, 94, of Beauregard, passed away peacefully Friday, February 7, 2020 at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika. He was born February 12, 1925 in Tallapoosa County to Perry and Pearl Wise. He worked at West Point Pepperell Manufacturing Company for more than 30 years. He loved raising cows Ellis Clyde Jenkins, Sr. Ellis Clyde Jenkins, Sr., of Opelika, Alabama was born to the late John and Cleo Parker Jenkins on May 6, 1936 and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on February 5, 2020 . He was 83 years old. Ellis worked at Pepperell Mill for 10 years and retired from Opelika Fire Department after 27 years as assistant Chief. He
Coast College. Shannon then relocated to the Auburn area where he transferred to Southern Union Community College and then later transferred to Auburn University where he graduated with a Building Science Degree. He was a highly valued employee at Donald H. Allen Development for 28 years and built many buildings throughout the Auburn and Opelika area. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, son,
and grandfather. He was a loyal friend, a father to many and a perfectionist at everything he did. He loved going on cruises and being at as manyAuburn Football games as possible. He is survived by his wife of 7 years, Kelly Wester; parents, Dale and Bridget Wester of Yorba Linda, California, Bob and Terry Deakins of Opelika; children, Katelyn Hamby of Opelika, Klent Wester of Auburn, Morgan Woodall of
Auburn, Morgan Martin of Auburn, and Braley Smith of Auburn; brothers, Darren Wester of Ringgold, Georgia and Shawn Wester of Opelika, as well as many nieces and nephews. A celebration of Life Service was held Friday, February 7, 2020 in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home at 3:00 p.m. with the family receiving friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home.
and chickens and his favorite pastime was his love of fishing. Many people fondley remember him as their school bus driver at Beauregard. He was a longtime member and deacon of Oak Ridge Church in Dadeville. Mr. Wise was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Jesse Strong Wise; daughter, Frecia Gayle; stepson; Steven Moore; granddaughter, Paige Palfrey; two brothers:
Perry Jr., and George Wise, along with his sister Ruth Mann. Mr. Wise is survived by his children: Benny Wise (Debbie) of Opelika, Evelyn Kane of Dadeville, Betty Cantrell of Dadeville, David Wise (Debbie) of Valley; stepsons: Melvin Moore (Shelia) of Waverly, and Joe Moore (Brenda) of Dadeville; sisters: Ruby Mann, and Becky Ewing both of Dadeville; along with 11 grandchildren, and
13 great grandchildren. Visitation was held from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Monday, February 10, 2020 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home, with the funeral service beginning at 2:00pm at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. The family would like to thank all the staff at Arbor Springs Health and Rehab for their loving care. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.
loved his farm and raised cows and hay for many years. His greatest joy was his family and grandchildren. He loved his Church and Church family at Watoola Methodist where he was a lifelong member. He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Jenkins. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, June Jenkins; Children, Ellis Clyde Jenkins, Jr.(Teressa), and
Teresa Diane Jenkins (Fiancé, Patrick Pate); 3 grandsons, Todd Jenkins of Nashville, Tennessee Jonathan and Taylor Jenkins of Opelika, Alabama; sisters, Glenda Eubanks (Tex) of Dadeville and Frances Newton of Newnan, Georgia, as well as many loved nieces and nephews. Visitation was held Saturday, February 8, 2020 in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home from 9:00 a.m. until 10:50 a.m.
A funeral service was held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Saturday, February 8, 2020 at 11:00 a.m.with Chaplain Gary R. Perry officiating. Interment followed at Watoola United Methodist Church Cemetery. The family request in lieu of flowers contributions be made to the Watoola Church Rebuilding Fund. (1370 Lee Road 38 Opelika, AL. 36804)
Willie B. Webster Willie B. Webster of Beauregard was born to the late William Bruce and Oree Durham Webster in Tallassee, Alabama, on April 3, 1935 and passed away at his home surrounded by family on February 4, 2020. He was 84 years old. He served in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. He was an avid domino player, fisherman, and a diehard Auburn Fan..... War Eagle!! He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Agnes Jones Webster; He is survived by his children, Brenda Brand (Jerry), Joyce Rollan (DJ), Mike Webster (Gail), Terrie Dykes (Patrick), Scott Webster
To have your loved one’s obituary published in the Opelika Observer, email us at: editor@ opelikaobserver.com or call 334-749-8003 Special to the Opelika Observer First Baptist Church will be hosting a “Couples Date Weekend” on Feb. 14 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and Feb. 15 from 8 a.m. to noon at The 3:16 Center. Doors open at 6 p.m. for Friday’s portion of the event. There will be a showing of “The Song” on Friday evening, which
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Sound Wall, from A7 entree options. He has prepared meals for members of the Charlie Daniels band, Fortune 500 Companies and many local nonprofits and organizations, among many others. There are 24 seats in the studio available for this dinner. Guests will be able to enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and after-dinner drinks while enjoying live music.
(Linda); sister, Mary Chappell (Charles); special friend, Marie Ford; 9 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; 1 great-great granddaughter, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members. Visitation was held in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home Friday, February 7, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. The funeral service was held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Friday, February 7, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. with Dr. Rusty Sowell officiating. Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery. Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to Providence Baptist Church.
Because seating is limited, those interested in attending are encouraged to reserve their tickets as soon as possible. Tickets are available for purchase via www.eventbrite. com, with tickets costing $75 for individuals and a “Valentines for Two” package which includes tickets to the dinner, overnight stay in the studio’s loft and bottle of champagne. For more information, call 334-5753477 or visit www. thesoundwallopelika. com. The venue is located at 605 Ave. B.
is based on the Song of Solomon. Dinner will be catered by Bow & Arrow. On Saturday morning, there will be breakfast and a review of the film and breakfast from Chick-fil-a. Tickets are $50 per couple, and $60 per couple with childcare. They are are available at the Welcome Center, church office and online at fbcopelika.com.
Opelika
A13
Family & Religion Place your ad here! Email: editor@opelika observer.com Call: 334-749-8003
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F
irst Peter is packed with practical instruction for living out the story of Jesus. One thing he gives quite a bit of attention to is our mindset and attitude. In 1:13, we are told to have “minds that are alert and fully sober.” In 5:8 it is “Be alert and of sober mind.” And in 4:7 it is “be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.” There’s more to all of these passages of course, but I’m interested here in developing the teaching of 4:7. The entire verse reads, “The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.” It’s my understanding that “the end of all things” is a reference to the destruc-
Preparing for Prayer
tion of Jerusalem under Titus and the Romans in AD 70 (about a decade after Peter writes). It’s hard for us to imagine how impacting this must have been for Jewish people everywhere (disciples and nondisciples). They would have known people or perhaps had family who perished. The destruction of Jerusalem brought an end to the temple, the priesthood and the city as the people of Peter’s day knew it. It was a sad and ominous time for Jewish people as more conflict with Rome was on the horizon. (There would be two more rebellions before the conflict would finally “cease” in AD 135 when the revolt led by Simon bar Kokhba was put down and Jew-
By Bruce Green Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika
ish people were barred from Jerusalem). It was the fulfillment of what Malachi had spoken of (4:1,5-6) and what Jesus had said would happen (Luke 21:2-32). With this in mind, Peter’s words to “be alert and of sober mind” take on a new dimension. They were to recognize they were living in perilous, difficult times. Those who have lived through such times can
Calendar of Church Events
Catch ‘On the Mark’ with D. Mark Mitchell and Jeff Sasser weekday mornings from 7-9 a.m.
Feb. 12, 2020
Pepperell Baptist Church features traditional worship and song. Sunday School starts at 9:45 a.m. and there are two worship services, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday’s prayer service begins at 6 p.m. The church is located at 2702 2nd Ave. in Opelika. • Feb. 21 - Lakeview Baptist Church will be hosting the “Near His Heart” dinner on Feb. 21 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. This event is for children with special needs and their families. For more information, call 334-887-7094. The church is located at 1600 E. Glenn Ave. • Feb. 21 - Christian comedian Tim Lovelace will be performing at Trinity United Methodist Church, starting at 7 p.m. For more information, call 334-745-2632.
The church is located at 800 2nd Ave. • Feb. 21 - First Presbyterian Church will host its next “Discover FPO Class” on Feb. 23 to help guests learn more about the church and information on how to help them get plugged in. For more information, send email to charlotte@firstpresopelika. org. The church is located at 900 2nd Ave. • Feb. 21-22 - Church of the Highlands will host its annual marriage conference at its Auburn campus on Feb. 21 and 22. Couples interested in attending can sign up via www. churchofthehighlands. com. The church is located at 2001 E. Samford Ave. • March 20 and 21 First Baptist Church of Opelika will be hosting
a “Making Disciples of Oral Learners Workshop” on March 20 and 21 to reach people for Christ who are unable to read through art, drama or music. For more information or to register for the event, call Ben Cohen at 804380-6979 or send email to benc@fbcopelika. com. The church is located at 301 S. 8th St. • April 30 - First Baptist Church of Opelika’s Men’s and Women’s Ministries are hosting Dr. David Jeremiah at Auburn Arena on April 30, starting at 7 p.m. Charles Billingsley will serve as the worship leader for this event. Tickets cost $15 each and can be purchased online at www.fbcopelika.com. For more information, call 334745-5715.
ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 2312 Center Drive Unit D #758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta #742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy #749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. #749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. #745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy #749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B #7064421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. #444-5148 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave #742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. #745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd #745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. #745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. #745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. #742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr #749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. #887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika
314 S. 9th St. #745-6143 First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. #745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact 709 Avenue E #741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. #703-3333 Friendship Missionary Baptist 432 Maple Avenue #742-0105 Greater Peace Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave. #749-9487 Heritage Baptist Church 1103 Glenn St. #363-8943 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 Liberty Baptist Church 2701 West Point Pkwy #749-9632 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. #745-2905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 #334-745-3600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy #745-5340 Pepperell Baptist Church 2702 2nd Ave. #745-3108 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd #749-2773 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Rd 166 #745-0807 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. #745-3224 Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd #741-7770 BUDDHIST Buddha Heart Village 3170 Sandhill Rd. #821-7238
CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. #749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy #742-9721 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St. #745-5181 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. #745-6015 Church of Christ 2660 Cunningham Drive CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd #749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place #7496432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court #745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. #749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. #745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 Opelika, Ala. 36804 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. #826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. #742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A #745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 #745-0460 Pierce Chapel United Methodist
attest that they call for an attitude of alertness and clear mindedness. If you live in a part of the country that that routinely experiences tornadoes as we do, you learn to be on the alert when conditions that are favorable to producing one develop. You think differently because conditions warrant it. Peter tells us to be this way “so that you may pray.” There’s prayer and then there’s PRAYER, isn’t there? There are quick prayers before meals, with our children, or whatever the occasion might be. We will take all of these we can get because they are Godhonoring moments. That being said, it’s also true that such prayers tend not to dive down deeply.
But there are prayers that do. Prayers like Jesus’ in Gethsemane or the prayers in Paul’s letters (Ephesians 1 and 3 will get you started). These prayers are part of our spiritual weaponry (Ephesians 6:18). They can protect and empower us. But they don’t come from froth and bubbles. They arise out of deep waters that have been stilled by God. If we want to pray these kinds of prayers, it begins with becoming alert and clear minded. Peter wants us to know that’s how we prepare for PRAYER. Green has written a book on the model pray called Praying in the Reign. It is available through 21st Century Christian.
Verse of the Week “But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.”
Psalm 59:16 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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pelika Observer O
A14 Feb. 12, 2020
Resting Pulse Brewery a go-to for entertainment this month Special to the Opelika Observer Resting Pulse Brewery at 714 1st Ave, in downtown Opelika will be the go-to destination for entertainment this month. Following is a full lineup for the remainder of February: • Feb. 15: Live
music presented by Locker McDonald from 7 to 11 p.m. • Feb. 19: Karaoke night from 7 to 11 p.m. • Feb. 22: Live music presented by T.J. Arwood and • Feb. 29: Live music presented by Hope and Matt. The brewery’s hours of operation
are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call 334-2031364, like and follow their social media pages or visit www. restingpulsebrewing. com.
Photo special to the Opelika Observer
Community Calendar: Events around town
• Feb. 11 -Business After Hours 5 to 7 p.m. at River Bank & Trust • Feb. 12 - Member Appreciation Lunch • March 12 - Railroad Investment Group Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m.
Ongoing: • Village Friends/Village Values is a nonprofit organization that supports seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older. For info or to schedule a presentation to your group, call 334-209-4641. For the website, Google “village friends village values.” • The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR chapter is appealing for sweaters, jackets, trousers, shirts and socks, women’s clothing, soft soap in individual containers, shaving supplies, disposable razors, denture cleanser, toothpaste and toothbrushes, DVDs, games, books and magazines to take to veterans at the CAVHCS in Tuskegee. The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter regularly visits veterans living in assisted living, the homeless domiciliary and psych (trauma) ward in Tuskegee. Donations are tax deductible and will be much appreciated. Pick up is provided. Please call Linda Shabo at 887-6659 or at 256307-1449. Mondays: • The Lee County Voters League meets the first Mondays of the month at
6 p.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church located at 201 S. 4th St. Opelika • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika. • The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School band room. Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike. • The Touched by Suicide Support Group meets the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information, contact Deborah Owen, EAMC’s director of Psychiatric Services at deborahowen@eamc.org. • The fourth Monday of each month, a community grief support group meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome. For more information, call 826-1899 or 5020216. • T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support
group, meets every Monday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika. For more info contact Mary Johnson, 749-1584. • The Lee County Commission meets the second and last Mondays of each month at the courthouse beginning at 5 p.m. • The Commercial Horticulture Extension Team organizes webinars to provide quick updates for producers on various topics of interest. Whether you are interested in the proper way to plant fruit trees or have questions in turf management, these webinars cover a wide range of subjects. Webinars are streamed live via Panopto on the last Monday of every month starting in January and ending in November. During the presentation, participants can send questions via email. The webinars also are recorded and stored in the archive on the Beginning Farmer website. Webinar topics include: trap cropping for reducing squash insect pests, cowpea curculio updates, nutsedge control, introduction to potting mixes in ornamental
Downtown opposes the quarry By Ken Ward Special to the Opelika Observer For well over 100 years, the city of Opelika has been a great place to raise a family, run a business and visit. This has transformed our once quiet railroad town into the prosperous city it is today. The proposed Creekwood Quarry would take away from the quality of life we have all come to love and negatively impact our great city. As the heart of the community downtown stores, businesses and restaurants help drive thousands of visitors and millions in
tax revenue into our community each year. The proposed quarry would impact our area considerably-hurting the community and taking away from the great revitalization efforts undertaken over the past several decades. We encourage all downtown patrons and Opelika residents to join with Opelika Main Street in opposing the proposed quarry. Information on how to send letters and voice your opposition can be found on the City of Opelika’s website (opelika-al. gov). Ward is the Executive Director of Opelika Main Street, a nonprofit dedicated to growing historic downtown Opelika.
container production, dealing with drought in commercial horticulture crops and many more. To view the full schedule, please visit www. aces.edu/anr/beginningfarms/webinars.php. Please send questions during the presentations to Ann Chambliss, thameae@auburn.edu. For questions regarding the webinar series or for providing suggestions, please email Dr. Ayanava Majumdar at bugdoctor@auburn.edu. Tuesdays: • Ballroom Dance Classes at the Opelika SportsPlex from 7 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info, call Diane at 749-6320. • The East Alabama Old Car Club meets every first Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Monarch Estates Clubhouse, located at 1550 East University Drive, Auburn. A program of interest to the old car enthusiast is presented. Car ownership is not required. • The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. Meetings are preceded by non-voting work sessions that typically begin between 6 and 6:45 p.m. • Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard. The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6 to 8 p.m. 8685 Alabama Highway 51. • A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2
p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone dealing with the pain of loss and feeling the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved. The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School. For more information, contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-518-9122. • The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. For more information visit www.auburncap.org or find the organization on Facebook. • East Alabama Gem & Mineral Society meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m. Meetings are held at the Covington Rec. Center, located at 213 Carver Ave. in Opelika. Wednesdays: • The second Wednesday of each month, a Community Grief Support Group meets from 10 to 11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 826-1899 or 502-0216. • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts
Bingo every Wednesday at 6 p.m. • Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays: • American Legion Auxiliary Unit 152 meets the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. at Niffer’s Place, 917 S. Railroad Ave. in Opelika. • The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Support Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@yahoo.com or find them on Facebook. • Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/ Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes. The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants. Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 850-212-5364. or cheri. paradice@gmail.com for more information or luncheon location of the month. • T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends. Call 334528-1076 for more information. Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.
Upcoming Events • Feb. 14 - Grab your partner(s), friends, sister brother, or whoever and help us celebrate love and join Unity Wellness Center this Valentine’s Day for free HIV testing, treats, giveaways and raffle prizes. Let us help you ‘Love Responsibly’ this year and learn your HIV status in as little as a minute, pick up some free condoms and arm yourself with the correct information about HIV. Call 334-749-3593 with any questions. • Feb. 18 - Lee County’s Low Vision Support Group meets on Tuesday, February 18, 2020 from 2 to 3pm at East Alabama Medical
Educational Resource Center on Pepperell Parkway, in the Ivy Room. Ways to cope with low vision will be discussed and supported. If you have any questions call Shiquita Fulton Vision Therapist at 334-8033750-Cell or office 334705-2024, email-shiquita. fulton@rehab.alabama.gov. • Feb. 18 - The February meeting of NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will take place at 7 p.m. at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce located at 714 East Glenn Ave. in Auburn. NAMI supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support,
education and advocacy. The public is invited • March 28 - 30 - The Friends of the Auburn Public Library will hold their ‘Big Book Sale’ at the library on March 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., March 29 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and March 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This sale is open to the public, and hundreds of gently used books will be available for purchase, including bestsellers, classics, fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books. All proceeds benefit the programs and services at the Auburn Public Library. Call for 334-332-1874 or email boosiml@auburn. edu. for more information.
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Relay for Life of Lee County event scheduled for April 17 By Sara Wilson For the Opelika Observer This year’s Relay for Life of Lee County event will be held on April 17 at Courthouse Square in downtown Opelika to benefit the research of the American Cancer Society. The event will last
from 6 to 10 p.m. The night will be full of fun, food and games to celebrate survivors and remember those who have lost their battle with cancer. This year’s theme will be “Carnival for a Cure.” Event organizer Kalyn Frederick said that campsites, or tents,
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
will be set up by each team participating in the relay. The hope is that these campsites will be set up with games under them for event attendees to participate in. “The whole purpose is to encourage people to get involved, and a lot of people don’t know how to get involved or
what getting involved looks like,” Frederick said. “It can be simply getting involved on the day of as a volunteer to be on a committee, to volunteer year-round or to be a sponsor.” To find more information or to register, visit www.relayforlife. org/leeal.
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COMICS
“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.” ― Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
Opelika Schools ports &S Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports
School Board Meeting Schedule • Feb. 25 - Opelika City School Board Meeting - 300 Simmons St. • March 10 - Lee County School Board Meeting - 2410 Society Hill Road
Opelika tops Pelham 82-58 Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer After a sluggish start, the Opelika Lady Bulldogs relied on consistent shooting and stellar defense to pull away from Pelham Monday night at the school’s Mainstreet Gym. Turn to page B3 for more photos.
On the Mark By D. Mark Mitchell
Opelika boy’s track team Yet-to-be filed bill in Alabama Legislature finishes second in indoor would unify public schools under one calendar state meet last weekend
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pelika’s Lady Bulldog Basketball Team won the area tournament title last week, beating Russell County 67-47 in the finals. LaDajah Hughley led offensively with 24 points, Kaitlyn Bryant added 18 points while Haley Sanders and Ananda Hughley scored 12 and 10 points respectively. OHS (25-6) advanced to the subregionals, and hosted Pelham at the Mainstreet Gym on Monday night, winning 82-58. Opelika only led by two at halftime, but outscored Pelham 45-23 in the second half. Four players scored in double digits: Ananda led with 21 points, Bryant and Sanders finished with 15 and Claire Worth notched 13. The Lady Bulldogs will begin regional play at Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery on Friday. They are slated to play Eufaula, however, no time has been set for the game. INDOOR TRACK AND FIELD The Opelika High School Indoor Track and Field teams participated in the AH-
SAA Indoor State Meet at the Birmingham CrossPlex Athletics Complex last Friday and Saturday. Opelika’s boys team finished second in Class 6A with 76 points, 7.5 points behind State Champion Homewood. The OHS girls placed 8th with 20 points, 91 points behind state champion Homewood. The following Bulldogs received points in the State Meet: -Jaylen Stinson won the state championship in the 60-meter dash with a time of 6.93. -Daley Tolbert placed third in the 400 meters, with a time of 50.77; Eric Watts was third in the 60-meter hurdles, running an 8.84; the 4x200-meter relay team won the title with a time of 1:30.10; the 4x400-meter relay team placed third; Watts finished second in the high hump and LaDamien Rowell was fourth; Watts finished second in the long jump and Rowell placed second in the triple jump. Opelika did not earn points in several See Sports, page B5
By Natalie Anderson Staff Reporter
Last Tuesday, Huntsville City Schools took to social media urging parents to reach out to state legislators and express their concerns in regard to an Alabama bill that would potentially extend instructional
time. To make up for lost break time, Rep. Steve Hurst and Sen. David Sessions may include a provision to add two hours to the school day resulting in eight-hour instructional days. Those in opposition of the bill are expressing the need to keep the calendar local. The future school hours with proposed
start/end times would appear as follows: • Elementary – 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. • Middle School/ Junior High – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. • High School – 8:30 a.m. to 5:40 p.m. Students would start school promptly on Sept. 8 with their first holiday being Veteran’s Day in No-
vember (only holiday required by law). The students would go to school for a total of 180 days per academic year and receive one day off for Thanksgiving break. The second semester of the academic year would begin Jan. 4 and run until May 28 without another break or holiday.
See Calendar, page B5
Opelika City School Board approves two resolutions opposing proposed granite quarry, legislation to extend school hours By Morgan Bryce Editor The Opelika City School Board approved two major resolutions during a specially called meeting on Thursday afternoon. The first resolution was a statement of opposition against a proposed granite quarry that CreekWood Resources, LCC of Florence is looking to construct just north of the city limits, a development that OCS Su-
perintendent Dr. Mark Neighbors said would cause lasting repercussions on the environment and Opelika’s children. “We’re working very close with the city and planning to send a copy of this resolution to ADEM and the closest regional EPA office,” Neighbors said. OCS Public Relations Coordinator Becky Brown added that the school system is working to raise awareness on this issue by dis-
tributing yard signs to parents and sending students home with copies of a form letter that students can fill out and send to ADEM in opposition to the quarry’s development. “We’re trying to get the word out that the most important thing they can do is (fill) out the letter to oppose it and ask for a public hearing,” Brown said. While no date and time has been set for a public hearing on the quarry, Neighbors
said the school system would be willing to host the event at the OPAC within Opelika High School. The second resolution pertained to a piece of legislation that has not yet been filed by the Alabama Legislature but could possibly come up for a vote this term. According to Neighbors, this bill is being pushed by the state’s summer camp and tourism industries to unify all Alabama public See Board, page B5
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Opelika High School seniors ink scholarships
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Opelika High School held its National Signing Day ceremonies last week, which featured nine signees. Brody Davis signed with Tarleton State University; James Dawson signed with Kennesaw State University; Nate EvansHuntingdon College; Julian Favors-Tuskegee University; Omar HollowayWingate University; Kory McCoy-University of West Alabama; Jamius Mitchell-Jones Community College; Marshall Myers-Auburn University (preferred walk-on) and Jaylen Stinson-Duke University.
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What children learn from ‘Honest Abe’
Beth Pinyerd
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very year in the classroom, I look forward to celebrating Abraham Lincoln’s birthday on Feb. 12! Not only is it the crafts of presidential silhouettes, coloring over copper pennies with Abraham Lincoln’s head and face on them and making log cabins and top hats, but it is the legacy he lived and left behind for us as parents, grandparents and teachers can cling to and teach our chil-
dren for many years to come! Lincoln was honest. Even as a young man, we hear the story of when “Honest Abe” was working in a country store that he had taken a few more cents from a customer on a product that was more than what was due. He closed the store and walked quite a long distance to return the correct change to the customer. One of his long living quotations is that “Truth is your truest friend.”
Don’t punish a young child for not telling the truth if he/ she doesn’t understand the truth. In early childhood, the habit of not telling the truth can start as early as toddlerhood or preschool. This is why it is so important as parents and teachers for us to take the time to sit down and teach young children the importance of being honest. This depends on the age of the child in being able to cognitively understand. Young children love to explore! This is a God-given instinct which introduces a young child to new abilities, possibilities, happiness, joy and sadness. They are little life observers of what gets them into trouble and what doesn’t get them into trouble. Why do children not tell the truth? This is the time we need to sit down and spend one on one time in getting to the root and bottom
of why our children may lie. Let’s examine our adult expectations of a child as a parent and teacher. Children want to please their parents and teachers. Are our expectations too high for our children? Do they fear of getting into trouble if they have done something wrong? As a teacher, I much prefer to have an honest “C,” “D” or an “F” on a test from a young student than a dishonest “A” because they may have cheated or lied. Being themselves helps us as parents and teachers to help them right where they honestly are. These are things for us to consider in helping to teach and mold our children to do what is right. Also, is the child just wanting their way and they lie? This is where we as parents and teachers can engage the child in the truth of the matter and encourage them to think of helping others.
Don’t embarrass a child in front of other children or family if you have caught them in a lie. Have a spot in your home where you and your child can face each other and come to the truth about a circumstance or situation. Hug them and hold them as you prompt them to tell you the truth. If your child does tell the truth which is a virtue you want to instill and encourage your child for a lifetime, then praise them for telling the truth. If they don’t tell the truth this is the time to reprimand them in an age appropriate way where they understand that not telling the truth is not acceptable. Role playing with your children to tell the truth is a very good way for them to understand that even little white lies can hurt other people and themselves. In role playing the child can actually experience the bad feeling that lying can
bring and experience the peace that telling the truth can bring. We live in such a busy world. Unfortunately, we see dishonesty everywhere, but our children don’t need to experience that if we take the time to model the truth! If we consciously try to model life’s truth, that is the best teacher that we can pass down to our children. Just like Lincoln, honesty can be a legacy we can pass down to our children. The Classroom Observer is here to serve the community in sharing the wonderful teaching programs in our local public schools, private schools, and homeschools. The column is provided to enrich the education of our children, youth, and families. Classroom Observer welcomes educational news, school news, pictures, and events by e-mailing her at donnapinyerd@ charter.net.
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Auburn Board of Trustees approves statues of Hare, Jordan and Dye Special to the Opelika Observer The Auburn Board of Trustees unanimously approved a request from Auburn Athletics on Friday to commission statues of former Auburn greats Cliff Hare, Ralph “Shug” Jordan and Pat Dye. The location and project schedule are not yet determined. “We are appreciative of the Board of Trustees’ approval to recognize and honor the greatness of Cliff Hare, Shug Jordan and Pat Dye,” said Auburn Athletics Director Allen Greene. “Each made immeasurable and endless contributions that have made Auburn such a special place and we look forward to honoring them.” A member of Auburn’s first football team, Hare was
involved in academics, athletics and policymaking at API (Alabama Polytechnic Institute) for a half century. He was involved in teaching, mentoring and enabling well-governed sports events at the university, as well as working to improve his community. Among his many accomplishments, he served as the first president of the Southern Athletic Conference in 1932, served as chairman of API’s Faculty Athletic Committee for numerous years and was named dean of the School of Chemistry and Pharmacy in 1932. Ralph “Shug” Jordan served as the head football coach at Auburn University from 1951 to 1975. Jordan also was the head men’s basketball coach at
Auburn from 193342 and 1945-46. While coaching basketball at Auburn, he also served as a football assistant coach. The winningest coach in Auburn football history, Jordan led the 1957 squad to Auburn’s first-ever national championship. He is Auburn’s all-time win leader (176) and his 25 years are the most by an Auburn football head coach. “Auburn football was a wasteland, a desert, when Coach Jordan came back as head coach in 1951. An Auburn Man, he gave Auburn people the greatest thing that could ever be given: hope. And he delivered,” said David Housel, longtime Auburn Athletic administrator and historian. “Whatever Auburn football is today, whatever
it may become in years to come will be due in no small measure to Coach Jordan and his many contributions to his alma mater.” Jordan led Auburn to 19 winning seasons, 12 bowl games and 13 appearances in the final Associated Press poll, including seven top10 finishes. During his tenure as the Tigers’ head coach, he had 25 All-Americans and eight Academic AllAmericans. In 1958, lineman Zeke Smith won the Outland Award, and in 1971, quarterback Pat Sullivan became the school’s first Heisman Trophy winner. Twice named the AP SEC Coach of the Year (1957, 1972), Jordan is the seventh winningest coach in SEC history. A Selma native, See Statues, page B5
Registration open for the ‘First Ride and Seek: A Bicycle Safety Adventure’ Special to the Opelika Observer The first “Ride and Seek: A Bicycle Safety Adventure” will take place on April 4 at the Parks and Recreation Complex located at 425 Perry Street in Auburn. For those who would like a tshirt, registration runs through March 20. Walk-up registration will also be accepted on the day of the event, but no T-shirts will be available at that time. The event will begin at 9 a.m. with stations on-site covering various bike safety topics such as helmet fitting, bike fitting, lights, reflectors and proper hand signaling. 3-mile rides will depart intermittently with opportunities to win prizes along the route! Tickets are $5 without
a t-shirt or $10 with a t-shirt. Visit www. auburnalabama.org/ rideandseek to register in advance. Ride and Seek is sponsored by the Auburn Bicycle Committee and the City of Auburn. The Bicycle Committee seeks to encourage biking activities, endorse bicycle safety, promote the health benefits of this great leisure sport and emphasize local, bike-friendly neighborhoods. The event will include live music as well as breakfast and lunch for purchase from Drive by Tacos. The door prize drawing will take place at 11:30 a.m. For more information or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, send email to Gabby Filgo at gfilgo@auburnalabama.org.
Six Southern Union nursing students participate in externship signing ceremony last Thursday Association. The ANCP is a statewide community college initiative that pairs nursing students with employers for what are known as workplace externships. The externships are specialized, 7-month training programs that pay students a salary and provide scholarships for their education in critically needed healthcare fields. Employers also sign
Special to the Opelika Observer Six of Southern Union State Community College’s nursing students signed with area healthcare facilities last Thursday in the first “Alabama Signing Day for the Alabama Nursing Career Pathways Initiative,” a partnership among Alabama’s community colleges and the Alabama Nursing Home
commitments with the externs to cover the cost of licensures throughout the externship, as well as grant the externs two years of employment after completion of the externship. Following are the names of the six signees and the companies where they practice their externships: -Frankie Ammons See Nursing, page B6
OLLI presents ‘Pen & Ink Architecture’ with Melissa B. Tubbs for Brown Bag Lunch and Lecture at the Boykin Community Center on Feb. 19 Special to the Opelika Observer Melissa B. Tubbs, a renowned pen and ink artist, will present “Ink Architecture” at OLLI’s Alabama
Brown Bag Lunch & Lecture Series on Feb. 19. A reception for the artist will follow until 4:30 p.m. at Sunny Slope, which is located at 1031 S. College St. OLLI
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will also host a Pen & Ink Worshop with Tubbs on March 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration will be available on OLLI’s website. Tubbs is an architectural portraitist. She came to the realization that this subject engaged her interest and passion for architecture and made better use of her finely honed technical abilities. In addition to numerous commissions, Tubbs used her pen to document significant works of architecture and the decorative ornaments on those structures. Indeed, some of the artist’s finest works are of building details, focusing on architectural embellishments, different textures of building materials and the dramatic patterns of light
and shadow cascading across the surfaces of the structure. Tubbs grew up in an Air Force family that required they move every three years. Eventually her father retired in Montgomery, so that is where Tubbs settled. She earned a bachelor’s degree in visual design from Auburn University, began a career in commercial design and raised a family. For the last 24 years, Tubbs has been a full-time artist, architectural preservationist and community arts enthusiast. She was commissioned by the Montgomery Area Business Committee for the Arts to create drawings as awards given to outstanding business supporters of the arts. The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts com-
missioned a series of eight drawings of its interior and exterior, and a few years later asked her to document a new building addition. Strathmore Artist Papers commissioned a drawing for their Series 400 Smooth Surface drawing pad covers. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Auburn University (OLLI at Auburn) hosts its Alabama Bicentennial Brown Bag Lunch and Lecture Series from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Boykin Community Center, located at 400 Boykin St. in Auburn. The bring-your-ownlunch begins at 11:45 a.m., and complimentary coffee, tea and cookies will be provided. The program begins at 12:15 p.m. The series is cosponsored by the Caroline
Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts and Humanities and City of Auburn’s Boykin Community Center. The program is open to the public at no charge. 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 at 1031 South College St. in Auburn. For more information regarding this event or to learn about becoming a volunteer faculty member, volunteer service assistant, or sponsor, contact Shawnee McKee, OLLI Administrative Support, at 334-844-3146, olli@ auburn.edu. or visit www.olliatauburn.org.
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‘The Train’: Former Auburn gridiron star trains parole officers By Skip Tucker Director of Development and Special Publications Should a top-10 list be made of people in this state who protect people, at or near the top would be Officer Roderick Chambers, Division Manager of Training for the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles. He’s an excellent trainer. At 6’4”, 290, he’s something of a train himself. His best speed for the 40-yard dash was 4.6. Officer Chambers is smart, intelligent, big, smart, quick, tough, big and smart. He was born to it military - but his natural skills were honed by some of the best, including Eufaula Coach Rush Propst, Auburn University coaches Terry Bowden and Jimbo Fisher and Green Bay Packers Coach
Sports from B1 events, costing them a team title. Congrats, OHS Boys Indoor Track Team! GIRLS The following girls earned points for Opelika: Breckin Gould placed sixth in the 1,600-meter run and fifth in the 3,200 meters; Ansley Jackson placed seventh in the high jump; Sequoia
Board, from B1 school systems under one schedule window as a way of extending students’ summer break. “It looks like if you do what they want, then you won’t start
Ray Rhodes. He was a star linebacker/defensive tackle. On any given day, Chambers and his bureau staff in Montgomery are teaching deep skill sets of varying types to nearly 400 men and women across Alabama. All want to see that the badge is earned. There’s a lot to it. The profession of probation and parole officer requires a college degree. Upon application to the bureau, it takes nearly six months for a college grad to win the right to wear the bureau badge, even for someone on the fast track. Not so fast there. “There is no fast track,” Chambers said. “Not everyone is cut out to be a cop. This is where a lot of people make the decision, to be or not to be.” There’s a lot of training. Under Chambers,
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer rookies learn to walk the walk and talk the talk. They develop strength, physical and mental, to take on one of the toughest tasks to be found. Training is unending, but the foundation is set when the bureau reviews its applicants and chooses. Once chosen, work begins. For six weeks, rookies are immersed in
the Chambers’ care. They learn their jobs and respect for the job. They learn how to deal with criminals who have been institutionalized and who must learn the social functions of how to walk and talk and breath free air without it becoming too heady. Chambers teaches rookies and vets how to
Williams finished sixth in the triple jump; Priscilla Perry placed fourth in the shot put and Ansley Jackson placed seventh in the high jump. BOYS The OHS boys advanced to the sub-regionals after beating Benjamin Russell 59-58 in the area tourney. Brandon Howard led the Bulldogs with 16 points, Marien Warner scored 12 points and Tay Hardnett added 9 points. Un-
fortunately, Russell County beat Opelika in double overtime 56-52. Opelika travelled to Pelham on Tuesday night in a sub-regional game. The results were not available at press time. SPRING SPORTS Spring sports are about to be in full force. The tennis teams started last week, baseball travels to Beauregard Feb. 15 for a doubleheader beginning at 11 am. and softball opens Feb. 13 by
hosting Beauregard at West Ridge. Opelika’s track and field schedule shows two meets so far, March 13 at Homewood and one on March 19. I will update you when Opelika will begin hosting home meets at Sam Mason Track on the OHS campus. D. Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys State Director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council.
before Labor Day and won’t finish until Memorial Day. You would get off on Thanksgiving Day, then have Christmas Eve and maybe a week ... and that would be about it,” Neighbors said. “The biggest thing is that this community needs to decide on school (schedules), and we
have. We plan on passing this resolution along to our governor and state legislators.” “We’re just asking to let us make our own schedule,” added Dr. Kevin Royal, one of the board’s five members. Neighbors explained that a number of issues would arise from this
legislation, including extended school days for students and teachers and drops in participation among the school’s extracurricular programs. For more information, visit www. opelikaschools.org. The Board of Education facility is located at 300 Simmons St.
protect themselves those under their care and, most importantly, the public. Their skills grow deep and wide. Weapons training includes the correct use of chemical spray, and they learn hand-tohand combat. They learn how to interview criminals who are about to become eligible for another chance at freedom to try to determine whether the time is right for their release into the social fabric. They learn case planning and how to motivate. It takes an able mind to absorb the teachings. Attitude, one of the most important of all things, is instilled. People learn to protect the public from criminals free on probation or parole. They learn how to make split-second decisions, but first they learn how to carry. They carry
Statues, from B4 Jordan served in World War II, fighting in four major invasions as a US Army officer. Wounded in the invasion of Normandy, he was awarded a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his service. A 1932 graduate of Auburn (A.P.I.), he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame as a coach in 1982. Dye served as the head football coach at Auburn from 198192 and was Auburn’s Athletics Director from 1981-91. Under Dye’s leadership, the Tigers won four Southeastern Conference championships (1983, 1987, 1988, 1989), and Dye became only the fourth coach in SEC history to win three straight (1987, 1988, 1989). He received SEC Coach of the Year honors in 1983, 1987 and 1988. Dye coached 1985 Heisman Trophy winner Bo Jackson and Tracy Rocker, winner of both the Outland Trophy and the Lombardi Award in 1988. “Coach Dye returned Auburn to
responsibility, weapon, knowledge. They learn to use them in an appropriate manner. They learn the ultimate thing. “It’s teamwork,” Chambers said. “First and foremost is teamwork. Your fellow officers have to know they can trust you to do your job, and that allows them to do theirs. “You have to have the skills and knowhow. Those are your tools. If you don’t know how and when and where to apply the tools, they’re useless.” Everyone on the team has the backs of everyone else on the team, and all have to know it to a certainty. According to Chambers, he was born into a situation “surrounded by structure” at Ft. Benning as the son of an Army See Chambers , page B6 national relevance in the 1980s and helped make it the traditionrich program that it is today,” said Bo Jackson, 1985 Heisman Trophy winner. “He helped bring the Iron Bowl to Auburn and most importantly helped shape the lives of hundreds of men that played for him. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without Coach Dye.” One of Dye’s most important achievements as Auburn’s Athletics Director was the permanent move of Auburn’s home games against Alabama to Jordan-Hare Stadium. The first time Auburn hosted Alabama in JordanHare Stadium was on Dec. 2, 1989, the first time in 41 years that the Iron Bowl had not been played at Birmingham’s Legion Field. In 2005, Dye was inducted into the National Football Foundation College Football Hall of Fame. The football stadium was named Cliff Hare Stadium in his honor in 1949, before becoming Jordan-Hare Stadium in 1973. The playing field at Jordan-Hare Stadium was named “Pat Dye Field” in 2005.
1 OUT OF 10
ELDERLY PERSONS AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES ARE BEING:
Abused, Neglected or Exploited
Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer
Calendar, from B1 At the Opelika City School board meeting held last Thursday, the bill was discussed within the board. “Our school cal-
endar should be set by our local school board with community input. It is important that it reflects the values of our community and is fair to our teachers and students. Proposing a start date after Labor Day and an end
date by Memorial Day eliminates and/ or shortens holiday breaks valued by our teachers, students, and families,” said Opelika City Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Neighbors. The Opelika City School board
passed a resolution at the meeting last Thursday that would officially oppose the bill if introduced. The Observer has contacted Lee County Schools and is awaiting a statement from Dr. Mac McCoy on this issue.
If you suspect this is happening to someone you know, please report it to Adult Protective Services by contacting your local DHR office or calling the
ADULT ABUSE HOTLINE at 1-800-458-7214
HELP STOP THE ABUSE
IF YOU SEE IT, REPORT IT
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“This project was supported by Subgrant #16-VA-VS-076 awarded by the Law Enforcement / Traffic Safety Division of ADECA and the U.S. Department of Justice.” The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or grant-making component.”
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B6 Feb. 12, 2020
Smiths Station High School sees seven student-athletes
participate in 'National Signing Day' ceremonies last week By Morgan Bryce Editor Seven Smiths Station High School studentathletes representing the Panthers' football, soccer and volleyball programs inked collegiate scholarships last week as a part of the "National Signing Day" event held at schools across the country. Male Sports Athletic Director Brian Nelson introduced the group, citing their overall toughness and positive representation of the school's brand throughout their athletic careers. "This group has been through a lot. They've lost friends, they've lost loved ones and
Nursing, from B4 (Auburn) - Arbor Springs Health & Rehab -Shontesia Austin (Auburn) - skilled nursing facility care at East Alabama Medical Center -Michelle Elliott (Opelika) - Arbor Springs Health & Rehab -Aubry Gray (Phenix City) - Arbor Springs Health & Rehab -Shamel Hart (Auburn) - skilled nursing facility care at East Alabama Medical Center and -Victoria Bearden Harrison (Auburn) - Dadeville Healthcare Center. The students who qualified for the program interviewed with each company to determine their selection for the externships. According to Arbor Springs Administrator and Region 6 Director for the Alabama Nursing Home Association Mat-
(have) been through acts of natural disaster ... but have (persevered) through it all," Nelson said. Following is a list of the signees and the schools that they have committed to: QB Ashford (Football) - ASA Miami (Florida) CC Cam Burnett (Soccer) - Faulkner University Caleb Coleman (Football) - Hutchinson Community College (Kansas) Reese Ponder (Soccer) - Judson College Shelby Watkins (Soccer) - University of West Alabama Asiah Wiggins (Volleyball) - Southern Union State Community College and
Christian Williams (Football) - Huntingdon College. Coaches from several athletic programs spoke, talking about the joys of coaching their student-athletes and imparted their wisdom to them. "Your direction in life can take you to a lot of different places. Don't ever give up on one thing, try a lot of things when you're young and find your area and what you excel in," said Panthers' football Coach Mike Glisson. "We look forward to you (Wiggins) representing us at the next level. We're so proud of you and wish you the best of luck as you transition into this next
thew Lewis, the externship opportunity began because of the reputation Alabama’s community colleges have statewide in regard to top quality healthcare programs. “The demand for highly qualified nurses continue to increase in Alabama, and particularly in the state’s nursing homes, so programs such as this one are gamechangers for the state’s healthcare system,” Lewis said. “If the caliber of the nursing students signing today is any indication of Alabama’s future healthcare providers, then great days are ahead. I am grateful to Alabama’s community colleges for listening. stepping up to the plate and developing this incredible program which is an immediate benefit to East Alabama.” The ANCP externships are a culmination of a partnership with the Alabama Nursing Home Association. According to state data, both
licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and registered nurses (RNs) among the highest demand career paths in Alabama. Southern Union President Todd Shackett praised the initiative and the success of its launch at the college. “At Southern Union, we serve as the bridge between our students and the best version of their future. Partnerships like this one, that not only provide the onthe-ground training but also a path to guaranteed employment can be life changing for our students and I’m proud to launch this program at our college,” Shackett said in a statement. ANCP externships will be available to nursing students statewide by 2024. About SUSCC: With campuses in Opelika, Wadley and Valley, Southern Union is the second oldest 2-year college in Alabama.
Photos by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer
Photos by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer phase of life," said Volleyball Coach Jenna Walker. Girls Soccer Coach Dennis Jones and his players Ponder and Watkins shared emo-
Chambers, from B5 MP and a schoolteacher. They moved to Germany, where he was educated through the sixth grade. His dad retired at Fort McClellan at Anniston and moved the family to Eufaula. Chambers became a four-star linebacker with the Tigers. He waffled between joining the US Marines and playing football at the next level. In 1997, he received scholarship offers from Alabama, Georgia, FSU and Auburn. He was recruited by Jimbo Fisher and played for Terry Bowden. “Auburn is family,” Chambers said. “The other schools were business, but at Auburn I felt at home and at ease.” “My most memorable year was my freshman year. I began to learn and adjust. I had been the BMOC at Eufaula. At Auburn, there were 80 other elite athletes on the field. It took a little while to adjust to the system and the sense of it all.” Chambers won a starting position on special teams, going down under kickoffs and punts. It’s a punishing position. “My first game was an away game at Virginia. We kicked off. I hit another player on kickoff
tional moments while he congratulated the two girls on their accomplishments. "You (two) have been key members of our program and will go
return so hard it bent my facemask. I got up and played the whole game, but my brain was so scrambled from the hit that I never remembered a single play.” His third game was LSU at night in Baton Rouge - Death Valley - as big underdogs. “When our bus turned into the stadium parking lot, we saw a long line of fans linked arm and arm, just watching us. We beat (them) in overtime.” “We had 10,000 tickets but our fans were spread all over the stadium. That was my first taste of what teamwork can do. There were 80,000 fans screaming for our blood. We had to rely on each other. We had to let each other know we had each other’s backs. We all had to do our jobs. “That’s when I began to know what it’s all about. You need two things to succeed as a team. You have to do your job, and everybody else has to be able to depend on you to do it. That year, we also beat Georgia and Alabama. Underdogs each time.” Chambers tried out for the Green Bay Packers in 2001 as an invited walk-on. He made the scout team, but at practice in 2001, got his leg broken. It ended his professional football career.
down as some of the best to ever play at this school," Jones said. For more information about Smiths Station athletics, visit www.lee. k12.al.us.
“I decided to put my degree in sociology and criminal justice to work,” he said. He joined the bureau in 2003, starting his career at the Phenix City office. He became a Senior Officer in 2006 at the Wedowee office. In 2011, Chambers earned his promotion to District C Manager in the Montgomery Field Office. He was transferred to the Training Division in 2015 to do what he does best. His training prepared him to train. “That’s what I bring to this table,” Chambers said. “First, our officers have to learn what to do and to be depended on to do it. You’ve got to know your job and know the officer next to you knows his or hers. There’s a lot of turnover. It’s step in and step up. I train them to do it.” “It’s important to know that not everyone is made to be a police officer. In lots of ways, it’s a calling. Have pride in the badge or don’t ask for one. I love training, I love instructing, I love helping people, I love the Bureau. And it’s only going to get better. Give me the rookie and I give you back the pro.” Chambers has your backs. He sure knows how. He was an all-star linebacker, you know.
Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2020
Inside the Statehouse Opelika City Council approves resolution Legislative session begins – priority opposing proposed rock quarry will be resolving prison problems
T
he 2020 Legislative Session, which began last week, will be the second session of Gov. Kay Ivey’s administration. For the second straight year, she and the legislature will be facing a major obstacle. The prison problem is the paramount issue for the year. The state must address and resolve this dilemma or the federal authorities will take over our prisons. The U.S. Justice Department has decreed that the constitutional
By Steve Flowers rights of inmates are being violated because they are in overcrowded conditions, which can lead to extreme violence. The federal justice officials say overcrowding and
excess violence is caused by a shortage of staff and beds for inmates. Our men’s prisons are at 170% of the system’s capacity. In the past few weeks it has gone from bad to worse with a forced transfer of more than 600 inmates from Holman Prison. Our Holman correctional facility is generally where our most hardened criminals are housed. Governor Ivey and this legislature did not See Flowers, page B11
By Michelle Key Publisher During last week’s city council meeting, the Opelika City Council formally approved a resolution for an engagement letter for legal counsel opposing a proposed granite quarry just north of the city limits off Lee Road 168. The resolution authorizes engagement letters with both Starnes Davis Florie, LLP and Samford Denson, LLP. In other business, the council: • approved a formal resolution announcing that the City Council
opposes the proposed quarry • approved a request by HS Sports Inc. DBA Auburn Billards Sports Bar-Lounge for a retail liquor class i and on premise beer license. • held three public hearings which allowed the public to address the following issues: - a resolution to fix the assessment for the cost of demolition of the property that was located at 207 Ave. A - a resolution to fix the assessment for the cost of demolition of the property that was located at 3307 Arnold Ave. - an proposed ordinance for the rezoning
of 32.45 acres located at 2899 Gateway Dr. • approved a bid for one 2020 Ford Transit Van for the Opelika Police Department for the amount of $33,513 • approved a bid for the replacement of the Rocky Brook culvert • approved a bid from Siemens Industry, Inc. for the purchase of up to 19 single-phase voltage regulators with SEL control panel at a total cost of no more than $617,690 • approved a bid from Evergreen Erosion Control, LLC for a contract for Columbus Parkway/ See Opelika, page B9
Lee County Commission votes to support Smiths Station City Council, city of Opelika in opposition to quarry Mayor F.L. ‘Bubba’ Copeland approve resolution to fight against proposed granite quarry By Michelle Key Publisher
By Morgan Bryce Editor Mayor F.L. “Bubba” Copeland joined fellow mayors Ron Anders and Gary Fuller in opposing the proposed granite quarry that Creekwood Resources, LLC of Florence is looking to establish just north of the Opelika city limits off US Highway 431. Copeland, along with fellow council members James Moody, Richard Cooley and Dick Key, unanimously approved a resolution during Monday’s
Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer meeting that highlights the risk that the presence of this quarry would bring not only to Opelika citizens, but Lee County residents as a whole. “By approving this
resolution, we are locking arms with our fellow municipalities in the fight against this quarry,” Copeland said after the vote was taken. The council voted to See Smiths, page B8
Monday night’s Lee County Commission meeting was held in front of a standingroom only crowd of concerned citizens. More than 100 people turned out to show their opposition of the proposed quarry that has applied for permits from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM.) Concerned citizen Banks Herndon spoke first on why he is against the proposed quarry citing both environmental concerns and decreased property values as being two of the major reasons. “The research (from a professor at Auburn University) shows that properties within
NOW OPEN
Gunter a half mile of the quarry will be devalued by approximately 20%, down to 8% for properties within three miles of the site. County tax revenue will be negatively impacted. Health concerns are also a major concern according to Herndon. Paperwork from Creekwood Resources, LLC states that certain conditions are paramount and non-nego-
tiable, one of which is that the quarry must be located downwind, not upwind, of the nearest metro area. Herndon said that according to research he conducted shows that during the 84% of the windy season, the wind will be blowing toward downtown Opelika or Grand National, not away from them. And Herndon proposed the question was to why is it so important which direction the winds blow - and what will the winds carry from the quarry that would harm the citizens of this town? Opelika City Attorney Guy Gunter addressed the commission and gave them details regarding the the proposed quarry. One of the main concerns See LCC, page B9
Indoor shooting range is open to the public
2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA
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B8 Feb. 12, 2020
Smiths, from B7 update their lodging tax ordinance to mirror the present lanaguage found in Alabama state code. In honor of the anniversary of the March 3 tornadoes, Copeland
said all Smiths Station schools will observe a 60-second minute of silence at noon E.S.T. that day. At 3:03 p.m. E.S.T., he encourages citizens to come to the Smiths Station Government Center and participate in a planned moment of silence around the large US flag pole in the
facility’s front parking lot. Tornado sirens will blare for one minute across the city. “This is designed to commemorate the events of that tragic day,” Copeland added. In other business, the council: - approved minutes from the Jan. 28 regular meeting
- heard updates from Copeland on the soon-to-be-developed public works facility on Lee Road 430. An abandoned house on the property was cleared last week, the first major step in this development and - received an update from Copeland on a proposed tornado
shelter that is expected to be built behind the Smiths Station Government Center. The Smiths Station City Council regularly meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month with a work session starting at 5:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time followed by the regular
meeting at 6 p.m. Their meetings are held within the Smiths Station Government Center, which is located at 2336 Lee Road 430. For more information, call 334-2978771 or visit www. smithsstational.gov. The council’s next meeting will be held on Feb. 25.
s l o o h c S y t i C 0 2 a 0 k i 2 l l a Opel F g n i m o C • K e r P
• Pre-registration will open February 3, 2020 at Opelika High School (Media Center Entrance) • Selected by Lottery System • Must reside in the City of Opelika • Required information: 2 current proofs of residency (water, power, gas) and original birth certificate • No registration or enrollment fees • Students must be four years-old on or before September 2, 2020 • Hours will be Monday-Friday from 8:15 a.m. 2:45 p.m. • Classrooms located at Opelika High School • For more details, visit www.opelikaschools.org or call 334.741-5623
Opelika City Schools
in partnership with the
City of Opelika
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B9 Feb. 12, 2020
Lee County NAACP chapter to hold meeting on Feb. 17 in Opelika Special to the Opelika Observer On Jan. 20, State NAACP Rep. Bobby L. Mays from Elmore County presided over a meeting to
determine interim officers in the effort to reactivate the Lee County Branch of the NAACP. The election results are as follows: • President - Billy
LCC, from B7 Gunter addressed was the impact that the quarry would have on Saugahatchee Lake which is the primary source for the drinking water of Opelika and the backup water system for all of Lee County. “It provides up to 3.5 million gallons of water per day to the city of Auburn and all of the rural water authorities depend on this source of water for a back up in case something happens to their wells and other sources of water, said Gunter. “A loss of Saugahatchee Lake would be of enormous consequences to all the citizens of Lee County.” The second concern Gunter addressed was the environmental impact on the surrounding neighborhoods. Noise and dust potentially containing cancer-causing particles being the biggest of those environmental concerns. Gunter requested that the county commission adopt a resolution opposing the quarry and file comments
U. Allen 678-4589688 • Secretary - Dr. Herbert Denmark • Treasurer - John A. Harris 334-7343302 Reactivation meet-
with ADEM expressing their concerns and requested financial assistance from the county to help fund the fight against the quarry. Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller also addressed the commission and reiterated the need for the county’s support in the fight to oppose this quarry. Following the presentaions from Herndon, Gunter and Fuller, the commission voted to draft a resolution opposing the quarry and to write a letter to ADEM expressing their concerns and requesting a public hearing on the matter. The commission will discuss the possibility of financial assistance with County Administrator Roger Rendleman. Sheriff Jay Jones recognized four corrections officers for completing classes from the Alabama Jail Training Academy and earning certificates of completion. In other business, the commission: • approved the minutes of the Jan. 27 commission meeting • approved the possible relocation of the Loachapoka polling place because of
structural issues with the building • approved the annual levy of alcoholic beverage fees for the 2020-21 fiscal year • approved proposed legislation for qualifications for sheriff • approved the chairman of the commission to execute the Federal Aid Agreement for the resurfacing of Lee Road 197 from Lee Road 208 to Lee Road 240 • approved a motion to remove an exemption in subdivision regulations that allows the creation of up to five lots sharing a common non-county maintained driveway - the amendment will take effect in 31 days • approved a motion to accept Royal Oaks Subdivision Phase II for maintenance • approved an ad request for an ad to be placed in the Lee County Strong Magazine being published by the Opelika Observer • held EMA director interviews and voted to approve the hiring of Chris Tate The next Lee County Commission meeting will be held on Feb. 24 at 5 p.m.
Located in Historic Downtown Opelika
334-745-4618
ings fall on the third Monday of each month. The next meeting will be held on Feb. 17 at 6 p.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church which is located at 201 S. 4th
St. in Opelika. Current NAACP members and interested citizens are encouraged to attend and applications will be available for those who wish to (re)join.
Opelika, from B7 Intellivest Stormwater Conveyance • approved expense reports from various departments. • authorized payment to East Alabama Paving Company Inc. • approved the resolution to fix the assessment for demolition of a building located at 207 Ave. A for $21,197.19 • approved the resolution to fix the assessment for demolition of a building located at 3307 Arnold Ave. for $6,162.50 • approved a contract with Ozark Striping for a city- wide striping project • approved the submission of a grant application to U.S. EDA for supplemental disaster funding • approved an appropriation contract for the fiscal year 2020 with the Opelika Chamber of Commerce for an amount of $65,000 • approved the city clerk-treasurer to designate bank depositories and official signers on city bank accounts
The vision of the NAACP is to ensure a society where all individuals have equal rights and there is no racial hatred or racial discrimination.
• approved an agreement with Intellivest Inc. for the Columbus Parkway drainage project • approved an agreement with Skipper Consulting for a regional transportation study. • introduced an ordinance for first reading for the rezoning of 32.45 acres located at 2899 Gateway Drive • introduced an ordinance for first reading to authorize sale of city property located 1506 Harper St. • introduced an ordinance for first reading to set the Municipal Election of Officers and voting locations for Aug. 25 • approved the reappointment of Raven Harvis to the Board of Zoning Adjustments. The new term will end Feb. 11, 2023. 2. Appointment Corey Grant to the LRCOG MPO Citizen Advisory Committee. The new term will end on Nov. 5 • Fuller announced the reappoint Mike Hilyer to the planning commission. The new term will end Feb. 15, 2026. The next council meeting will be Feb. 18 and will be held in the council chamber at City Hall, which is located at 204 7th. Ave. in Opelika.
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B10 Feb. 12, 2019
Coach Tommy Tubberville kicks off statewide campaign tour last week in Auburn Special to the Opelika Observer Former Auburn University Football Coach Tommy Tuberville kicked off his statewide campaign tour for
the U.S. Senate with a breakfast meet-and-greet at Byron’s Smokehouse last week. Tuberville met with constituents, discussing their concerns, sharing about his ideas and platforms and how
he would help President Donald Trump achieve his agenda. For more information or updates on Tuberville’s campaign, visit www.tommyforsenate. com.
Photos submitted by Christi Gibson/For the Opelika Observer
HEY OPELIKA. THERE’S A NEW HERO IN TOWN AND HE’S READY TO SAVE OUR CITY. ONE HOUSE AT A TIME. Meet Captain R2O. He’s strong enough to take on stinky garbage, determined enough to teach you how to recycle, powerful enough to persuade citizens to GO GREEN and handsome enough to win your heart. If you recycle now, then you are already part of our fantastical League of Environmental Champions. If you do not, no worries. You can sign up for Curbside Recycling or fly over to one of our convenient recycling centers. Recycling unleashes the super hero in all of us. Join Captain R2O today in his fight to Recycle Right Opelika. And remember, when in doubt, throw it out. For more information on how you can help save our city, visit www.opelika-al.gov.
700 Fox Trail • Opelika, AL 36801 334.705.5480 • www.opelika-al.gov
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B11 Feb. 12, 2020
ALGOP Chairman Terry Lathan issues statement on the State of the State address Special to the Opelika Observer Alabama Republican Party Chairman Terry Lathan released the following statement after last week’s State of the State address by Governor Kay Ivey: "This evening Governor Ivey demonstrated why she is ranked one of the top-10 approval rated governors in the nation. The state of our state is strong, thanks to her focused leadership. The results are solid. "With an unemployment rate of
Flowers, from B7 cause this problem. It has been building up and festering for years. The chickens have just come home to roost under her watch, but she is attempting to handle the problem adroitly. The governor and her administration have worked openly and pragmatically with the Justice Department in clearly defined negotiations. It might be added that the Justice Department has worked congruently and candidly with the Ivey administration and given them clear guidelines in order to avoid federal intervention. Governor Ivey and the Justice Department are taking a harmonious approach, which is a far cry from the Gov. George Wallace v. Judge Frank Johnson demagogic rhubarb of past years. In that case, the state lost, and we lost, in a big way. When the federal courts take over a state’s prison system, they dictate and enforce their edicts and simply give the state the bill. It is a pretty large, unpredictable price tag. The feds always win. Governor Ivey will
2.7% – the lowest in our state's 200 year history and among the lowest in the nation – and 77,000 new jobs created in last year alone, Alabama's economy shows no signs of slowing down. This has enabled the Ivey administration to add much needed services and personnel to help our citizens, including a 17% increase in State Troopers on our roadways, job training programs and increasing rural broadband access. "Governor Ivey will continue to move our great state forward in
the new year, creating a brighter tomorrow for Alabamians and their children. Not only did she pledge to build on her past successes – with pay raises for our educators and public employees – but is also introducing new initiatives including the one billion dollar public school and college authority, a major investment in our schools. This is in addition to our education budget, the largest in state history, and will help enhance and expand our number one rated pre-k program, among
others. Heralding another record breaking year of adoptions is something for all of us to celebrate. “We are reminded there has been no
proration since the Republicans took over the legislature in 2010. "Alabama is starting off our next 100 years in incredible
shape and with Governor Ivey steadying our state, it will only keep getting better. Alabama does not back away from high steps."
take information from a study group she appointed, led by former Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Champ Lyons as well as negotiate with the Justice Department and offer proposals they need from the legislature along with administrative decisions to remedy the prison problem. Leading the legislative efforts will be State Sen. Cam Ward who has been the lead dog in the prison reform efforts. The problem hopefully will be resolved during this session. Governor Ivey will not use the approach she did last year with rebuild Alabama when she adjourned the Regular Session and placed the legislature in Special Session to address the issue on a solo stand-alone platform. It will be tackled within the confines of the Regular Session. If the solution is to build three new, modern men’s prisons the state will be faced with some heavy lifting because the big question becomes, how do we pay for them? The answer may be in a lottery. For the umpteenth year, a proposal to let Alabamians vote to keep the money from lottery tickets in our state coffers. We are one of only four states in
America who derive no money from lottery proceeds. We are surrounded on all four sides of our state by sister southern states that reap the benefits of our citizens’ purchase of lottery tickets. This could be the year that the legislature votes to allow their constituents the right to vote yes or no to keep our own money. You can bet your
bottom dollar that if it gets on the ballot, it will pass. Alabamians, both Democratic and Republican, will vote for passage. Even if they do not have any interest in purchasing a lottery ticket. They are tired of seeing their money go to Tennessee, Georgia, Mississippi or Florida. Those who like to buy them are tired of driving to our neighboring states to give them money for their school
children and roads. It also may have a better chance of getting to the voters this year because the sponsor, Rep. Steve Clouse (R-Ozark), is a respected veteran and Chairman of the House Ways and Means General Fund Committee. His proposal is also a very simple paper lottery. However, for the first time Governor Ivey addressed the issue in her State of
the State address. She is calling for a study commission on the subject which could further delay our having a lottery. 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.
We would like to thank the following businesses for sponsoring one or more of our newspaper boxes and racks around Lee County
• Better Bodies Massage Institute • Interim HomeCare • Opelika Theatre Company • Three Keys Properties, LLC
To have your company’s logo placed on a box email us at editor@opelikaobserver.com
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B12 Feb. 12, 2020
Sen. Doug Jones releases statement on impeachment decision Special to the Opelika Observer U.S. Sen. Doug Jones today issued the following statement last week about his decision to vote to convict the President on both articles of impeachment: “On the day I was sworn in as a United States Senator, I took an oath to protect and defend the Constitution. At the beginning of the impeachment trial, I took a second oath to do ‘impartial justice’ according to the same Constitution I swore to protect. “These solemn oaths have been my guides during what has been a difficult time for
our country, for my state, and for me personally. I did not run for Senate hoping to participate in the impeachment trial of a duly-elected President, but I cannot and will not shrink from my duty to defend the Constitution and to do impartial justice. “In keeping with my oaths, I resolved that throughout this process I would keep an open mind and hear all of the evidence before making a final decision on the charges against the President. For months, I have been studying the facts of this case exhaustively. I have read thousands of pages of transcripts,
“As this chapter of history draws to a close, one thing is clear: our country deserves better than this. We must find a way to come together, to set aside partisan differences, and to focus on what we have in common as Americans.” – Sen. Doug Jones watched videos of testimony, taken copious notes, reviewed history and precedents and discussed this case with colleagues, staff, and constituents, in addition to having participated in the Senate trial over the past two weeks. After many sleepless nights, I have reluctantly concluded that the evidence is sufficient
to convict the President for both abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. “With the eyes of history upon us, I am acutely aware of the precedents this impeachment trial will set for future presidencies and Congresses. Unfortunately, I do not believe those precedents are good ones. I am particularly
concerned that we have now set a precedent that a fair trial in the Senate does not include witnesses and documentary evidence, even when those witnesses have first-hand information and the evidence would provide the Senate and the American people with a more complete picture of the truth. “I am also deeply troubled by the partisan nature of these proceedings from start to finish. Very early on I implored my colleagues in both houses of Congress to stay out of their partisan corners. Many did, but so many did not. The country deserves
better. We must find a way to rise above the things that divide us and find the common good. “Having done my best to see through the fog of partisanship, I am deeply troubled by the arguments put forth by the President’s lawyers in favor of virtually unchecked presidential power. In this case, the evidence clearly proves the President used the weight of his office and that of the United States government to seek to coerce a foreign government to interfere in our election for his personal political benefit. The President’s See Jones, page B16
Rogers’ statement after HPV VACCINE FACTS: President Trump acquitted Special to the Opelika Observer Congressman Mike Rogers made the following remarks last week after the Senate voted down both articles of impeachment and President Trump was acquitted. “After three years, the Democrats’ attempted coup based on lies and false-
Rogers hoods has finally failed. I applaud the Senate for putting an end to this base-
less witch hunt. Shame on Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Congressman Adam Schiff for putting our nation through such a travesty of justice solely for their petty political purposes. Democrats are not only sore losers from the 2016 election, but also jealous of the phenomenal job and
many accomplishments of President Trump. Democrats need to get over it and accept the fact that Donald Trump is our president,” Rogers said. Rogers serves as a ranking member on the Committee on Homeland Security and a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee.
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pelika O Observer
B13 Feb. 12, 2020
PUBLIC NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA DOMESTIC RELATIONS DIVISION IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF BRIAN T. CASWELL, Plaintiff, vs. ANGELA LEE CASWELL, Defendant. CASE NO.: DR-2019900270.00 To: Angela Lee Caswell IN THE FAMILY COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA; FAMILY DIVISION DR-20199000270.00 IN RE: BRIAN T. CASWELL NOTICE OF PETITION FILED AND SERVICE BY PUBLICATION Notice to: Angela Lee Caswell ANGELA LEE CASWELL must answer the Complaint for Divorce in the Family Court of Lee County, Alabama, on August 15, 2019, by the Honorable Zachary D. Alsobrook for the Petitioner Brian T. Caswell within fourteen (14) days from the last date of Publication of this notice or a final judgment may be rendered in Case Number DR-2019-900270.00 in the Family Court of Lee County, Alabama. Answer must be filed at: Lee County Justice Center, 2311 Gateway Drive, Opelika, Alabama 36801. ATTORNEY: Honorable Zachary D. Alsobrook 114 North 9th Street Opelika, AL 36801 (334) 737.3718 Legal Run 01/22/2020, 01/29/2020, 02/05/2020 & 02/12/2020
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN C. EDGAR, JR., DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE No. 2020- 022 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to John B. Edgar, on the 23rd day of January, 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. John B. Edgar, Executor Legal Run 01/29/20, 02/05/20 & 02/12/2020
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: CV-2019-900427 VanDenBerg Custom Carpentry, LLC, Plaintiff, v. A Parcel of Real Property described as: Lot 26, Shelton Woods Subdivision, according to and as shown by that certain map or plat of record in Town Plat Book 6, at Page 118, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, Defendant. NOTICE OF ACTION To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence. You are hereby notified that on the 22 nd day of July, 2019, a complaint to quiet title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, and the following are the names of all parties to the action: Van Den Berg Custom Carpentry, LLC, as Plaintiff; A parcel of real property, as Defendant, said real property being described as: Lot 26, Shelton Woods Subdivision, according to and as shown by that certain map or plat of record in Town Plat Book 6, at Page 118, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama. All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them, it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint. Done this the 22nd day of January, 2020. _/s/ Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County J. Brandon Rice Attorney for Plaintiff Rice & Parr 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika, Alabama 36801 Legal Run 01/29/20, 02/05/20, 02/12/20, & 02/19/2020
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: CV-2019-900619.00 Hardwood, LLC, Plaintiff, v. A Parcel of Real Property, And DOROTHY WILLIAMS EWING and/or the Unknown Heirs of DOROTHY WILLIAMS EWING, Defendants. NOTICE OF ACTION To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence. You are hereby notified that on the 16 th day of October, 2019, a complaint to quiet title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, and the following are the names of all parties to the action: Hardwood, LLC, as Plaintiff; Dorothy Williams Ewing, as Defendant, whose heirs, executors and/ or administrators are unknown and cannot be ascertained after the exercise of due diligence, and which are believed to have claimed some right, title, interest or claim in and to the property described as follows: Commence at the Northwest corner of Section 35, Township 18 North, Range 29 East, and run North 86 degrees 57 minutes East for 655.45 feet; thence South 03 degrees 09 minutes East for 1301.82 feet to the Southern margin of McBride Road; thence 101.42 feet Southwesterly along a curve the radius of which is 1874.49 feet; thence South 03 degrees 37 minutes West for 79.38 feet; thence South 14 degrees 58 minutes East for 123.41 feet; thence South 16 degrees 25 minutes West for 86.86 feet; thence South 03 degrees 24 minutes West for 161.06 feet to the point of beginning; from said point of beginning run North 53 degrees 10 minutes East for 174.24 feet thence South 36 degrees 50 minutes East for 175.0 feet; thence South 53 degrees 10 minutes West for 174.24 feet; thence North 36 degrees 50 minutes East for 175.0 feet; to the point of Beginning. Compromising of 0.70 acres, more or less. All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them, it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint. Done this the 22nd day of January, 2020. /s/ Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County J. Brandon Rice Attorney for Plaintiff Rice & Parr 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika, Alabama 36801 Legal Run 01/29/20, 02/05/20, 02/12/20, & 02/19/2020
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of CHARLES EUGENE PARKER SR., Deceased Case no. 2019-C-085 NOTICE OF CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to LORI KERN, as Administrator of the Estate of CHARLES EUGENE PARKER, SR., deceased on the 22nd day of January, 2020, by the Honorable BILL ENGLISH Judge of Probate. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against said Estate of hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. HON. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA /s/ LORI KERN Administrator of the Estate of CHARLES EUGENE PARKER, SR., deceased. Legal Run 01/29, 02/05 & 02/12
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: JAMES A. SCOTT, Deceased. Case No.:2020-024 Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to WILLIAM F. SCOTT on the 24th day of January 2020 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all
persons having claims against said estate are hereby requried to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. William F. Scott Legal Run 01/29/2020, 02/05/2020 & 02/12/2020
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF KENTAVIOUS ROBINSON, Deceased PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Monica Gaffney on the 25th day of February, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Monica Gaffney Legal Run 01/29/2020, 02/05/2020 & 02/12/2020
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: GATEWAY TIRE AND AUTOMOTIVE gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien and intent to sell these vehicles on 03/25/2020, 08:00 am at 2023 PEPPERELL PKWY OPELIKA, AL 36801-5441, pursuant to subsection 32-13-3 of the Alabama Statutes. GATEWAY TIRE AND AUTOMOTIVE reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids. 2MEFM75W45X616683 2005 Mercury GRAND MARQUIS 4JGAB54E92A296971 2002 Mercedes-Benz ML Legal Run 02/02/20 & 02/12/2020
MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain mortgage executed by Gary L. Jones, an unmarried man, on December 10, 2010, to Frontier Bank now known as Renasant Bank, which mortgage is recorded in Mortgage Book 3774, Page 819, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, the undersigned, as Mortgagee or Transferee, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in the said mortgage will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash in front of the main entrance of the Lee County Courthouse in Opelika, Alabama, on February 26, 2020, during the legal hours of sale the following real estate situated in Lee County, Alabama, to wit: Lot Number One (#1) of a plat of survey, stated August 8, 1984, prepared for Peggy Jones Newsome by Zack D. Sprayberry, III, AL L.S. Reg. No. 12933, which real property maybe more particularly described as follows: From the Southwest corner of the Northwest quarter of Section 6, Township 19 North, Range 29 East in Lee County, Alabama, run thence North for 1605.1 feet; thence East for 2014.1 feet to appoint on the southerly margin of Lee County Highway No. 79; thence along the southerly margin of said highway, South 64° 08’ East, for 33.5 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING, From this beginning point, continue South 64° 08’ East, along the southerly margin of said highway for 38.1 feet to a concrete monument; thence South 64° 03’ East for 335.4 feet to an iron pin; thence leaving said highway , run South 34° 42’ West for 543.2 feet to an iron pin thence North 64° 08’ West for 391.8 feet; thence North 29° 34’ East for 238.4 feet to an iron pin; thence North 35° 52’ East for 240.9 feet to an iron pin; thence North 61° 27’ East for 76.4 feet to the iron pin at the POINT OF BEGINNING. LESS AND EXCEPT: Lot Number One-B (#1-B) of a plat of survey dated November 15, 1996, prepared for Richard W. Waites and Tammy R. Waites by Zack Sprayberry, PLS AL Reg. No. 12933, a copy of said plat having been marked Exhibit “A” and attached to Warranty Deed Record in Deed Book 2113 at Page 323 and made a part hereof by reference, and said real property being more fully described as follows: From the Southwest corner of Section 6, Township 19 North, Range 29 East, Lee County, Alabama; run thence North 3765.0 feet; thence run East 1366.4 feet
to an iron pin found being the POINT OF BEGINNING. From said point of beginning, run North 29° 34’ East for a distance of 238.4 feet to an iron pin found; thence run North 35° 52’ East for a distance of 240.9 feet to an iron pin found; thence run North 61° 27’ East for 76.4 feet to an iron pin found; thence run South 64° 08’ East along the Southerly margin of Lee Road 279 for a distance of 38.1 feet to a concrete monument found; thence run South 64° 03’ East along the Southerly margin of Lee Road 279 for a distance of 71.9 feet to an iron pin set; thence run South 30° 25’ West for a distance of 538.9 feet to an iron pin set; thence run North 64° 08’ West for a distance of 169.0 feet to an iron pin found and being the POINT OF BEGINNING. Together with the hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto belonging. Said property will be sold on an “AS IS, WHERE IS” basis subject to the right of way easements and restrictions of record in the Probate Office of Lee County, Alabama, and will be subject to existing special assessments, if any, which might adversely affect the title to the subject property. This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. This Mortgage Foreclosure sale will be held on February 26, 2020, at the Lee County Courthouse in Opelika, Alabama. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. Renasant Bank, f/k/a Frontier Bank Mortgagee or Transferee This Instrument Prepared By: Burt W. Newsome P.O. Box 382753 Birmingham, AL 35238 Attorney for Mortgagee or Transferee Legal Run 2/5, 2/12, 2/19/2020
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA In the Matter of: Deborah Shotts McMahan, an incapacitated person TO: Any interested party: Whereas, Lee County Sheriff, Jay Jones, Conservator, has filed a Petition in writing, for the Final Settlement/Accounting and to Dissolve the Conservatorship of DEBORAH SHOTTS MCMAHAN. It is ordered that Tuesday the 25th day of February, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. be appointed a day on which to hear such petition, at the Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama at which time all persons interested can appear and contest the said petition if they deem it proper. Done this the 31st day of January, 2020. Bill English- Probate Judge Margaret A. Mayfield Attorney for Conservator Post Office Box 809 Opelika, AL 36803 (334) 745-0333 Legal Run 2/5, 2/12, 2/19/2020
In the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama In Re: Estate of Russel Earl Hodges, Deceased Petition to Probate Will NOTICE Letters of Testamentary for the Estate of RUSSEL EARL HODGES, deceased, having been granted to MICHELLE JEAN HODGES, on the 29th day of January 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claim against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. s/Raymond L. Jackson, Jr./ Raymond L. Jackson, Jr. Attorney for MICHELLE JEAN HODGES Executor of the Estate of RUSSEL EARL HODGES Legal notice: 02/05/2020, 02/12/2020, 02/19/2020
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of Marcia S. Smith, Deceased
NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration have been granted to Denver Smith, as Administrator of the Estate of Marcia S. Smith deceased, on the 17th day of June, 2019, by the Hon. Bill English. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. James E. Hall, Attorney for Administrator Legal Run 01/15/2020, 01/22/2020 & 01/29/2020
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF EUGENE BROWN, Deceased PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2020-017 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of EUGENE BROWN deceased having been granted to Susan Lee, on the 17th day of January, 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Susan Lee Legal Run 01/29/20, 02/05/20 & 02/12/2020
CITY OF OPELIKA NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARINGS TO: RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED CITIZENS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Opelika, Alabama will hold a regular meeting and will be conducting public hearings on Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers in the Public Works Administrative Building located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama. A Planning Commission work session begins at 2:40 PM. The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public comment on the following: 1. A public hearing on a request by James L. McCrory, authorized representative for Auston Shaw, property owner, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Homestead Farm Revision of Tract 1-A subdivision, 2 lots accessed from 3250 Oak Bowery Road. 2. A public hearing on a request by Joshua L. Howard, authorized representative for Scott Land Company, Inc., property owner, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Scott Industrial Park Redivision of Lot 1-A and Lot 3-A subdivision, 2 lots accessed from Skyway Drive. 3. A public hearing on a request by Mark Strozier, authorized representative for Edgar Hughston, property owner, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Wyndham Villages subdivision, 4 lots accessed from Gateway Drive. 4. A public hearing on a request by Blake Rice, authorized representative for BC Stone Contracting, LLC, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Camelot Northbrook subdivision, 2 lots accessed from Northbrook Drive & Sherwood Drive. 5. A public hearing on a request by Blake Rice, authorized representative for 280 Land Company, LLC, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Hidden Lake Phase 1 subdivision, 56
lots accessed from Sportsplex Drive & WestPoint Parkway. 6. A public hearing on a request by Bolt Engineering, Inc., authorized representative for Opelika Gateway Properties, LLC, property owners, 97 lots, for preliminary plat approval of the Wyndham Village Phase 1 subdivision accessed form Gateway Drive 7. A request by Jay Knight, authorized representative of Builders Professional Group, LLC, property owners, for final plat approval of The Village at Waterford Phase 3 subdivision consisting of 78 lots accessed from Arlee Lane and Brittany Lane (This item tabled at the January 25th Planning Commission meeting.). 8. The following agenda items are included as “Other Business” at the February 25th Planning Commission meeting: a. Pepper Mill Creek subdivision, 47 lots, Lowndes Street, Bolt Engineering, Inc., Preliminary approval, Requesting extension of preliminary plat approval for one year or March 23, 2021. b. Bolt Engineering, Inc., Lowndes Street, R-3, Multifamily development (Duplexes), Requesting extension of conditional use approval for one year or March 23, 2021 c. Blake Rice, McCoy Street & South Fox Run Parkway, C-2, GC, Multi-family Apartments – The Crossings at Opelika, Requesting extension of conditional use approval for one year or February 23, 2021 d. Veterans Commercial Park SD, 15 lots, 200 block of Veterans Parkway, Alva T. Webb II, Requesting extension of preliminary plat approval for one year or March 23, 2021 All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting/public hearings and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to the Planning Director at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the meeting/public hearings and may be further submitted to the Planning Commission at the meeting/ public hearings. The Planning Commission reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and to make its recommendations accordingly to the City Council. Please contact Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-5132 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability. PLANNING DIRECTOR Legal Run 02/12/2020
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Probate Court, Lee County Estate of: Debra Jean Obert a/k/a Debra Moi Obert, deceased ) Case No: 2020-018 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTMENTARY of Debra Jean Obert a/k/a Debra Moi Obert deceased having been granted to Abigail Newman Layfield on the 17th day of January, 2020 , 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. Abigail Newman Layfield James M. Ivins Attorney for Abigail Newman Layfield 1408 Broad Street Phenix City, AL 36867 Phone: 334-298-0607 Legal Run 02/12/2020, 02/19/2020 & 02/26/2020
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B14 Feb. 12, 2020
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B16 Feb. 12, 2020
Rogers’ statement on State of the Union address Special to the Opelika Observer
Congressman Mike Rogers made the following remarks last week after President Donald Trump delivered his State of the Union address last week. “In his magnificent State of the Union speech, President Trump unapologetically and boldly defined American greatness. Because of President Trump’s vision and policies, America is great again. His sto-
Rogers ries of the sacrifices, heroism and dreams of the Americans he recognized at his speech stirred our hearts, brought tears to our eyes and made us immensely proud. “It is unfortunate Speaker Nancy Pelo-
si and House Democrats chose spite, pettiness and disrespect over honoring our nation on this special night. Any American watching the speech was given a clear choice for our future. I strongly stand with President Trump and his vision of America’s great future of freedom,” Rogers said. Rogers serves as ranking member on the Committee on Homeland Security and a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee.
Rogers’ statement after Democrats tabled H. Res. 832 Special to the Opelika Observer Congressman Mike Rogers made the following remarks last week after House Democrats voted to table H. Res. 832, privileged resolution to admonish Speaker Nancy Pelosi. “Speaker Pelosi’s behavior at the State
of the Union is an embarrassment to our nation. The planned tearing up of the official copy of President Trump’s speech was beneath contempt and degraded the office of Speaker. She should be ashamed of her juvenile and petty actions. I am proud to be a cosponsor of H. Res. 832 to disap-
prove of Speaker Pelosi’s behavior. I congratulate my colleague Representative Kay Granger (R-Texas) for spearheading this important resolution. It is deeply unfortunate that House Democrats refused to allow an up or down vote today on this resolution,” Rogers said.
ALGOP Chairman Terry Lathan: statement on the State of the Union Address Special to the Opelika Observer Alabama Republican Party Chairman Terry Lathan released the following statement following last week’s State of the Union address by President Donald Trump: "On the day he entered the 2016 race, President Trump laid out a vision to make America great again. Tonight, three years into his presidency, the President presented to the American people the accomplishments of his administration which far exceeded the promises he made. "With seven million jobs (created) since he took office – five million more than the
Jones, from B12 actions placed his personal interests well above the national interests and threatened the security of the United States, our allies in Europe, and our ally Ukraine. His actions were more than simply inappropriate. They were an abuse of power. With impeachment as the only check on such presidential wrongdoing, I felt I must vote to convict on the first charge of abuse of power. “The second article of impeachment, obstruction of Congress, gave me even more pause. I have struggled to understand the House’s strategy in their pursuit of documents and witnesses and wished they had done more. However, after careful consideration of the evidence developed in the hearings, the public disclosures, the legal precedents, and the trial, I believe the President deliberately and unconstitutionally obstructed Congress by refusing to cooperate with the investigation in any way. While I am sensitive
experts projected – the lowest unemployment rate in over half a century, the lowest unemployment rates in history for all minority groups, and women filling 72% of all new jobs added, the state of our union is stronger than ever before. Wages continue to rise and the media household income is at its highest level in history. Once again, America is respected on the world stage because of a president who does not blink and puts America first. “However, this address was more than just facts and figures. It was a showcase of America's finest people and stories. From Brigadier Gen-
eral Charles McGee – the last surviving member of the Tuskegee Airmen – and his great-grandson Iain Lanphier, who hopes to join the Space Force, to Montgomery's own Paul Morrow, who was among the President's guests, tonight's address was about celebrating American exceptionalism. "Along with our country's great successes we witnessed a stunning and clear contrast as the Democrats sat in silence not supporting these incredible Americans, their stories and the land that stands above all. We cannot look away from that contrast. We must fight for our nation's future to keep America great."
to protecting the privileges and immunities afforded to the President and his advisors, I believe it is critical to our constitutional structure that we protect Congress’ authorities also. In this matter it was clear from the outset that the President had no intention whatsoever of any accommodation with Congress when he blocked both witnesses and documents from being produced. In addition, he engaged in a course of conduct to threaten potential witnesses and smear the reputations of the civil servants who did come forward and provide testimony. The President’s actions demonstrate a belief that he is above the law, that Congress has no power whatsoever in questioning or examining his actions, and that all who do so, do so at their peril. That belief, unprecedented in the history of this country, simply must not be permitted to stand. To do otherwise risks guaranteeing that no future whistleblower or witness will ever come forward and no future President — Democrat or Republican — will be subject
to Congressional oversight as mandated by the Constitution. “Senators are elected to make tough choices. We are required to study the facts of each issue before us and exercise our independent judgment in keeping with the oaths we take. The gravity of this moment, the seriousness of the charges, and the implications for future presidencies and Congresses all contributed to the difficulty with which I have arrived at my decision. “This has been a divisive time for our country, but I think it has nonetheless been an important constitutional process for us to follow. As this chapter of history draws to a close, one thing is clear: our country deserves better than this. We must find a way to come together, to set aside partisan differences, and to focus on what we have in common as Americans. We are facing great challenges both domestically and internationally, but it remains my firm belief that united, we can conquer them and remain the greatest hope for people around the world.”
This week’s puzzle answers: