Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Vol. 10, No. 23
Opelika, Alabama
pelika O Observer “By local people, for local people.”
Irish Bred Pub to hold St. Patrick’s Day festival/grand reopening Saturday By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Downtown Opelika’s Irish Bred Pub will hold a St. Patrick’s Day Street Festival this Saturday, beginning at 11 a.m. South Railroad Ave. and the segment of Ninth Street to Avenue A will be closed off until 7 p.m. for the event, which will feature food, drinks, traditional Irish dancing, fun activities for both adults and children, as well as live music.
IBP co-owner Joe Garofalo said he and General Manager/coowner Chris McBride want the celebration to not only tap into the spirit of the holiday, but serve as a grand reopening for the establishment they started together nearly eight years ago. “A pub is short for a public house, a place where people gather and congregate, which is the vibe I was going for originally (when it opened). I want this place to have
Robert Noles/ Opelika Observer
something for everybody,” Garofalo said. “Whether it’s a family, a college kid, a couple or a bunch of friends going out, I want it to have multiple atmospheres for them to feel comfortable. It’s up to us to build community, because that’s something our country is lacking in (right now).” During the last four months, Garofalo said he and McBride have been busy revamping the restaurant’s overall layout, appearance, See Bred Pub, page A7
Acre’s David Bancroft to participate in Sip and Savor event March 17 By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor March has been a busy month for defending Iron Chef winner and Acre’s Executive Chef David Bancroft.
Last Friday, Bancroft and his staff held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new restaurant, “The Bow and Arrow,” which is slated to open this fall. Describing it as a smokehouse-like es-
tablishment, Bancroft said the restaurant’s offerings will incorporate elements of both his Alabama roots and Texas upbringing. “I grew up in south Texas, so doing this kind of food isn’t
forced for me. This is how I trained myself, this is how I learned to cook,” Bancroft said. Despite vast differences in menus and cuisine, Bancroft said both Acre and the Bow and Arrow will share a
similar level of culinary excellence. “The number-one thing (on our minds) is the attention to quality and the technique,” Bancroft said. Caleb Fischer, who became Acre’s “Chef
Wes Goodson Giving life-changing hope and love to to run for Lee men and women at Harvest Evangelism County Coroner
de Cuisine” in 2015, will serve as the Bow and Arrow’s executive chef once it opens this fall. Newest cooking competition Bancroft will be See Bancroft, page A2
Opelika remembers Nancy McLeod
Shawn Kirkpatrick/ Opelika Observer
Submitted to the Opelika Observer
Special to the Opelika Observer Wes Goodson has filed qualifying papers with the Lee County Probate Office to seek the office of Lee County Coroner. For seven years, Goodson has worked as a nationally registered EMT in the EMS department of East Alabama Medical Center. He See Goodson, page A3
By Shawn Kirkpatrick Opelika Observer “Recovery is a journey, not a destination. It’s step by step, people by people, a good church, a businessman who hires you and gives you a chance, a family that helps.” That’s what Rick Hagans, pastor and founder of Harvest Evangelism, explained is part of the path to overcoming addiction. His Place, Harvest Thrift Store and Hosanna Home in Lafayette are all under the cover of Harvest
Evangelism. The His Place facility on 2nd Avenue and His Place Farm House help men recovering from addictions. “A lot of (homeless) guys just come in and want the traditional ‘three hots and a cot.’ A bed, a shower, a couple of hot meals,” Hagans said. “They can stay up to 20 days, but we try to encourage them to be in the program component of His Place, which is a 12-month residential treatment recovery program for men with
A beloved Opelika educator, Nancy McLeod, passed away in her sleep last week. She was 77 years old. An Opelika native and avid Auburn
See Hagans, page A3
See McLeod, page A7
Index OPINION.................................A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY........A10 SPORTS...................................B1
RELIGION.................................B3 COMMUNITY.............................B8 ENTERTAINMENT.....................B12
By Lawton Vallely For the Opelika Observer
pelika O Observer.com
pelika O Observer
A2 March 14, 2018
Empty Bowls donation, dog park rules, tree talk at Opelika City Council meeting By Shawn Kirkpatrick Opelika Observer
the Opelika Police Department. - approved a request by AT&T for a support tower at 1981 Airport Road and also a Sprint support tower at 1315 Madison Ave. - approved special appropriation of $500 to the Opelika School System for a branding video and sound equipment for the
pal Supervisor Matt Battles, presented a check for $18,000 to the city council and Mayor Fuller that was raised at this year’s event. In other business, the council: - approved a request by Chris McBride, owner of the Irish Bred Pub, to block off 9th Street from South
“We are truly proud of her many accomplishments and dedication to our community with her talent and service.” With those words, Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller proclaimed March 6 Sherie Spain Day.
Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Spain was honored with the proclamation as well as the mayor’s “Atta Girl” award for her hard work and dedication with the Opelika-Auburn Empty Bowls Project. The Empty Bowls event was held at the Denson Recreation Center to raise funds for the Food Bank of East Alabama. The event attracted more than 900 visitors. Spain, along with Opelika Parks and Recreation Munici-
photography and editing class at Opelika High School. - approved special appropriation of $2,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lee County to help sponsor the 2018 Mayor’s Ball. - approved by council the annexation of 160 acres near Fox Chase at Emerald Lake subdivision into the city of Opelika -approved a resolution to accept the See Council, page A3
Railroad Avenue to Avenue A for a grand reopening event on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th . - approved a request from Main Street for Taste of the Town event on April 24th and Relay for Life on April 27th. - approved bids for weed abatement and for mobile computing stations for the fire and police departments. - approved the purchase of a 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe for
Bancroft from A2 competing in the inaugural Sip and Savor Spring’s “Waffle House Showdown” this Saturday at Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia. Competing against three other highly touted chefs, Bancroft will prepare iconic dishes from the fast food chain’s menu, including hashbrowns, hashbrown bowls and omelets. “I’m much more nervous about this one (than Iron Chef),” Bancroft joked. “It’s Waffle House. You can’t mess up someone’s hashbrowns.” Tickets are $45 per person for those 21 and over, which includes viewing of the competition, full Waffle House breakfast along with champagne and cocktails. They can be purchased at www. callawaygardens.com/ sip-savor-spring/. Proceeds from the event will benefit
the Ida Cason Callaway Foundation, which supports the upkeep of the gardens as well as the educational programs offered at Callaway. Bancroft will also prepare a course for the Sip and Savor kickoff event, the James Beard Foundation Dinner. His course will include deviled country ham, peppermash pickles, mustard frills, grated deer jerky and fried croutons.
Keeping Opelika Beautiful KOB to host Recycle & Shred Day Special to the Opelika Observer Keep Opelika Beautiful will host a free Recycle & Shred Day March 24. The event will be from 8-11 a.m. at the Jeter Recycle Center, located at 675 Jeter Ave. This site is across the street from Jeter Primary School. The document shred will be held in conjunction with River Mills
Shredding Service of Columbus, Georgia. All shredding for this event will be done onsite. Following the event, River Mills will mix the shredded paper with paper from other clients. Paper clips and staples do not have to be taken out but paper will need to be removed from binders. There is a 10-box limit for shredding. Other items accepted
daily at the Jeter Recycle Center include electronics, aluminum cans, appliances, cardboard, glass (brown, clear and green), newspaper, plastic, scrap iron, steel cans, tires, used cooking oil and yard debris. For more information, contact Keep Opelika Beautiful at 334-749-4970 or email tipi@keepopelikabeautiful.com.
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Editor: Michelle Key Associate Editor: Morgan Bryce Journalist: Shawn Kirkpatrick Marketing: Woody Ross, Doug Horn & Emily Key Photographer: Robert Noles
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pelika O Observer Hagans, from A1 life control issues.” Right now, His Place on 2nd Avenue isn’t housing any men. They are only using the kitchen and serving nearly 300 meals a day to the homeless and hungry. Hagans said he has to put in a sprinkler system before anyone can stay in the house. “I am just waiting on money. We’ve only raised about half of the money needed for that,” Hagans said. “Once the upgrade is made, 20 to 25 men will be able to live in the house.” Right now, the men are living and recovering on the 36 acre His Place Farm. The men take care of the house, along with chickens, cows and crops.
“Part of being an addict is poor use of your time. So they get up at 5:30, eat breakfast, do a devotion and do chores. Some days they work in the thrift store or at the farm. Some days they go to schools, churches and prisons to tell their stories,” Hagans said. Hosanna Home is where women with addictions can recover and still have their children living with them. “Right now we have 17 ladies and 11 children living at the home,” Hagans added. “The greatest thing we can do for a child is give them their mama back sober.” Hagans said the budget to maintain 15 buildings, along with the meal, and other programs, costs more than $800,000 a year. “The thrift store building alone is
In last week's edition of the Observer, the acronym for the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment was incorrect. It was printed as NORHA, instead of NAHRO. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.
65,000 square feet. In the hottest and coldest months the power bill (for everything) is $25,000,” Hagans added. “We always need more money. We just do the best we can.” “I’m not a hero. I don’t like that. What I’ve learned is it’s not about 100 people, it’s not even about 10, it’s about the one in front of you today. That person, would you do it for them,“ Hagans said. “I like the old Robert Kennedy saying, some men look at things that are and wonder why. I would rather dream of things that aren’t, and wonder why not. I grew up in Opelika and saw the drugs and abuse, and I thought why, why can’t we do something.” To donate to all the Harvest Evangelism programs visit harvestevangelism.org.
Goodson, from A1 was previously the Medical Officer at Lyman Ward Military Academy for two years. Goodson has an associate degree from Southern Union State Community College and has been a Lee County resident for 32 years. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Beauregard Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as a firefighter for eight years and obtained the rank of Lieutenant during his time of service as a volunteer. He also works with Frederick-
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Council, from A2
Dean Funeral Home as a funeral home associate. Goodson and his wife Prissy look forward to celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary this year. They have two children and one grandchild. Goodson and his family are members of Providence Baptist Church in Beauregard where he also serves as a deacon. If elected, Goodson said he would bring a new level of compassion, professionalism, and commitment to the Coroner’s Office. He said would like to thank his voters in advance for their prayers, support and vote in the June 5 Republican primary.
‘Scouting for Food’
Submitted to the Opelika Observer
donation of 100 trees from the Opelika Rotary Club (ORC) in honor of their 100th anniversary, which is next year. The Ward 1 community teamed up with ORC, each giving $2,000 for the planting of 100 Cleveland Select Pear Trees. - approved new rules, regulations and penalties for pet owners and will be posted at the new dog park at Floral Park. - approved the reappointment of Rusty Melnick to the P&R Board. His new term expires 3-15- 2023. - approved the reappointment of Wayne Gibson to the Property Maintenance Board of Appeals. His term expires 3-16-2021.
Special to the Opelika Observer On a recent Saturday Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts demonstrated their motto of “helping others at all times” through “Scouting for Food”. When the final can of food was weighed at the Food Bank, a total of 6,637 pounds had been collected. Through “Scouting for Food,” young people are made more aware that hunger is a problem and are given an opportunity to do something concrete to address food insecurity. The Food Bank of East Alabama partners with local nonprofit agencies or churches who then distribute food to the needy of our area through emergency food pantries, shelters, soup kitchens, senior and youth centers, and missions. Pictured are Boy Scouts unloading and sorting incoming food.
Protecting Opelika’s water resources By Case O’Dell Special to the Opelika Observer We are fortunate to live in a region with abundant water resources. Seventyone percent of our planet is covered in water, our state has the sixth largest freshwater resources in the country, and Opelika straddles two major watersheds. Water is all around us and part of our everyday lives. It is a resource that appears limitless, and we often go through each day without giving much thought to how we use water. But is our water limitless, and does it matter how we use it? The answer might surprise you. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimates that oceans, seas, and bays contain 96.54 percent of the earth’s water. However, this water is unavailable for most practical uses due to its concentration of salt. An additional 1.74 percent is also unavailable, being held in ice caps, glaciers, and permanent snow. The remaining 1.72 percent of the earth’s water is held in lakes, rivers, swamps, groundwater, and the atmosphere. This small portion is what is left to sustain the livelihood of the earth’s more than 9 billion people.
If that is difficult to picture, then imagine filling a five-gallon bucket with water. Of that five gallons only 8 ounces (1 cup) would be available for use. So, what does this mean for us? It means that our water resources are not unlimited, and every meal cooked, shower taken, chemical spilled, and piece of litter has an impact on our water. Like any other resource water must be properly managed for it to be sustained. Opelika’s water resources are plentiful, but they need protection, preservation, and reme-
diation. As part of my job of working for the City’s Engineering Department, I am required to walk sections of local streams and creeks every year. Having walked several miles during the last few months I have noticed a trend. Trash and some harmful conditions exist in many of our waters. This is a symptom of a poor consciousness regarding water quality. We see issues as out of sight – out of mind in many cases, but this attitude doesn’t change the fact we still have problems and things
to be concerned about. So, what do we do? Over the next few weeks we will explore varying topics related to water quality and showcase some real-life issues that have been encountered locally. The hope is that through this series you will better understand the importance and fragility of our local water and begin to make proactive changes to better conserve and manage one of our most important resources. Opelika does have ample water for the foreseeable future, but only if we
make strides to better use and protect it. Our lives are tied to water, and by improving the quality of
our water resources, we can improve the quality of life for people in our community.
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pelika O Opinion Blame it on the BBRs Dear God A4
March 14, 2018
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Allman Brothers. They cut s some of you gentle bell-bottoms off into shorts, readers might know, a did more beer than drugs, and few years back I wrote a were more inclined to protest book titled The Rise and Decline college curfews than social of the Redneck Riviera. It is an injustice. About the only thing account of what happened along they had in common with the the coast, from Gulf Shores to national “hippie” movement Panama City Beach, in the years between the end of World War II By Hardy Jackson was their casual attitude toward sex. and now. In it I chronicle a clash These Bubbas and Bubbetts created between the arbiters of good tasted and bethe real Redneck Riviera. havior, and those who refused to conform Yet for all their anti-establishment inclinato the rules and regulations of an orderly tions, BBRs were middle class to the core. society. Which is why they sold out so fast. In other words, respectable folks vs. redJust like Baby Boomers everywhere. necks. In the early ‘70s, throughout the nation It has been a good fight. Baby Boomers abandoned the rebellion. And now it’s all but over. Turning to the music of Carol King and But I’m getting ahead of myself. James Taylor were sure signs of surrender. The story begins in the late 1940s, when And down on the coast you began to hear war weary folks from the Lower South went – Jimmy Buffett. to the beach to recover. They stayed in Now let me say, up front, I am a big tourist courts and cottages rented cheap. For Buffett fan. I can recall attending at least recreation they’d fish a little, swim a little, seven concerts – the first so long ago that he drink a little, and generally do things they played to a crowd that would have hardly could not do at home. filled up the first 10 rows of a concert today. They created what came to be condeAnd though some of his songs hint strongly scendingly called “The Redneck Riviera.” of Redneck Riviera anti-social behavior But some of them wanted more, and in (“Pascagoula Run” being a classic) as he 1953, an enterprising Panhandle developer and his Baby Boomer contemporaries grew decided to give it to them. older there was as much middle-age angst as Bent on selling lots to and building mindless hedonism in his music. houses for a classier clientele, he drew up Which is why his songs fit the mood of a restrictive covenant that assured potential wanna-be pirates who were looking at 40 buyers that in his community “no trailer, tent, shack, outhouse or temporary structure and wondering what happens next. Soon, not surprisingly, BBRs were as im. . . . no outdoor privy, no noxious activities, pressed with Buffett’s string of restaurants, offensive noises or odors, nor any nuisance his line of “parrot paraphernalia,” and his will be permitted . . . .” No “offensive noises” or “noxious activi- best selling books as they were with his music. Where once BBR Buffett fantasies ties?” focused on his life as a “hard drinking caWhat’s a good ol’ boy and good ol’ girl, down from Dothan, Dadeville and Demopo- lypso poet” by the time he and they hit 50 it was the CEO in flip-fops that tickled BBRs’ lis to do? fancies. Almost simultaneously Buffett and How about stay away? Which, of course, was the point. The developer and others like the BBRs cut their hair, shaved their moustaches, had children, met payrolls, and (exhim didn’t want to attract rednecks. They cept for the occasional raunchy song sung wanted to attract folks who wanted get together in concert) he and they cleaned up away from rednecks. their act. And they succeeded, sorta. Which is why BBRs everywhere were Although these community builders were as happy as Jimmy was when, finally, after able to keep out most of the offensive and noxious types, in so doing they opened door years of working hard, he won an award. For country music. for – get ready -- “BBRs – Baby Boomer An award shared with Alan Jackson for a Rednecks.” song that could be sung to Baby Boomers These were the sons and daughters of whose “offensive noises” today are muted the mostly middle-class southerners who and whose “noxious activities” are pretty brought their families to the beach after the much PG-13. War. Just one more bit of evidence that the When they got old enough Dixie’s Baby Redneck Riviera is no more. Boomers did what Baby Boomers throughHarvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Profesout the nation did. They rebelled, Southern sor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville State style. Instead of psychedelic rock, they boogied University. He can be reached at hjackson@cableone.net. to the music of Lynyrd Skynyrd and the
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band. ear God: The same woman It’s been who would be disawhile since appointed in me if we last talked. And I she knew how long know you’re busy. But it has been since I I have something I’d prayed last. like to ask, if you have Thanks for my a second. By Sean Dietrich wife. For the sound Please—and I really that the Gulf of mean this—let the kid Mexico makes. For saturated I saw in Walmart play baseball fats, the color yellow, Hank Wilthis year. You know the kid I’m liams. And the cardinal I saw talking about. He was wearing a while walking my dog. surgical mask. He is small and And my dog. How could I bony. forget her? Thank you for Ellie He’s not well. Mae. She’ll be thirteen this comI heard him ask his mother ing year. She smells like rotten about playing baseball. oysters and stale armpit hair. But His mother answered, “The she has made my life perfect. doctor says you gotta wait until Thank you for beer. Tomatoes. you’re better, sweetie.” And for premature babies who “Please, Mom,” he said. fight to live. Listen, I know there are Thanks for the times you saved droughts, famines, wars, and one me from my own messes. For billion people suffering from early mornings, when the sun is pop country music. But that boy golden orange. wants to play ball, God. He was Thanks for not giving up on almost begging. me. For helping me finish school Please. Just do some magic. Make his body work again. If you as a grown man. And college. And for helping me not be emcould just surprise him. That’s all I ask. Also, bless every person barrassed about that anymore. The thing is, I don’t know who feels unloved. Bless each exactly what you are, God. In soul who feels alone. Bless the fact, I don’t even know if that’s ones who feel overlooked. And make the Atlanta Braves not suck your real name. But I know that you’re a something. A good this year. Baseball, God. That’s what I’m something. I know that no matter how messed up this world gets, getting at. You know how much it meant to me over the years. Af- you give a damn about us. I know this. Even though I ofter my father died, it’s one of the ten forget it. things that kept me going. You have no reason to hear a A few more things: help Miss word I say. Believe me, I underBonnie. Her husband of fortystand that. After all, you’re maknine years was everything to her ing sunrises and spinning solar before he died. She’s a wreck. systems; I live in a trailer. Look in on her if you get a But please accept this whatevchance. er-you-call-it prayer from a man Help Skittles, the dog, find an who doesn’t have any formal owner. She was found behind training on talking to you. ForPiggly-Wiggly. But then, of give me for times when I haven’t course, you know the story alenjoyed my own life enough. ready. And let that kid play baseball, Thank you for cheese. What a God. I mean it. Amen. great idea that was. And for my Sean Dietrich is a columnist, friends—even the ones I haven’t and novelist, known for his commet yet. Thanks for Daddy. I only knew mentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in him twelve years before he endSouthern Living, the Tallahassee ed his own life, but I feel lucky Democrat, Southern Magazine, to have known him at all. Some Yellowhammer News, the Bitter kids never know their fathers. Southerner, the Mobile Press And for my mother, who raised us on a shoestring budget, Register and he has authored seven books. without the help of her late hus-
Inside the Statehouse
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ell, folks, the 2018 political year has begun and all of the horses are in the chute. It is going to be a good year for horse races. Perennially, the year of the governor’s race has been the best year for Alabama politics. Historically, most Alabamians have been more interested in who they elect as governor than who is president. However, we have really been more interested in who is sheriff than president. If the old adage that “All politics is local” applies in Tip O’Neil’s Massachusetts, it applies doubly in the Heart of Dixie. Our forefathers, who wrote our now antiquated 1901 Constitution, must have perceived that our politics was localized because all of our races are on the ballot in gubernatorial years. This year we will not only elect a Governor, we will vote for a new Lt. Governor,
Last, but new Attorney certainly not General, new least, all of Treasurer, our legislanew Agricultive seats are ture Commisup for elecsioner. Five tion. Our seats on the constitution State Supreme By Steve Flowers anoints the Court are on Legislature the ballot as with a good well as three seats on the Court of Civil amount of power. Probably more than the ExecuAppeals, and three places tive and Judicial branches on the Court of Criminal of state government. Appeals. Our Constitution was Along with these State written and dictated by Court races, we have a powerful agricultural good many of the cirBlack Belt farming and cuit judges in the state Birmingham industrial inrunning. All 68 probate terests. They wanted the judges are on the ballot. power vested in the LegLest some of you correct islative Branch. They orme that we only have 67 chestrated malapportioned counties rather than 68, representative bodies, and imperial Jefferson has gave inordinate power to two Probate Judges. That the Black Belt region. is not all folks, all 67 The Legislature controls Sheriffs in the state are up the purse strings of the for their four-year terms. state. Thus, the adage that Both political parties select their members to their “those that have the gold set the rules.” The most local and state executive powerful organization committees. Part of the then and still now is the state school board runs Alabama Farmers Federathis year.
tion (ALFA). They will disburse a token amount to the governor’s race, but they will concentrate their interest and resources on legislative races. Most of the other special interests and organizations will follow suit and do the same. Therefore, you will see most of the special interest money focused on the 35 state senate seats and 105 House of Representative places up this year. Incumbents are usually hard to beat. Indeed, most of the most entrenched incumbent State Senators and Representatives are unopposed or have taken opposition. There are 10 Senate Seats and 22 House seats where the incumbent is not running. These races will be interesting to watch and expensive and you will have one or two incumbents get benched. One that will probably go down is first term State Senator Larry Stutts in the Northwestern corner of the state.
Speaking of incumbents, very few sitting members of Congress ever lose. No matter if they are Democratic or Republican. However, one of our seven congressional seats is seriously in play. Incumbent Republican Martha Roby will have her hands full holding on to her congressional seat for a fourth term. She has been considered very vulnerable since her race two-years ago. She is being challenged by four significant Republicans and two Democrats. Bobby Bright, who held the seat for two-years as a Democrat, lost the seat to Roby in 2010 only because he insisted on running as a Democrat. He has seen the light and is running for his old seat as a Republican. He is a former mayor of Montgomery for 10 years along with his two years in Congress. He is a stellar campaigner, who has roots in the Wiregrass. Also in the race will be Rich Hobson,
who will be the heir apparent to the Roy Moore organization. Enterprise/ Coffee County State Representative Barry Moore will do well in his home Wiregrass area. Newcomer Tommy Amason will get some votes in the River Region. The race for the 2nd District should be interesting. The other members of our congressional delegation are Republicans Bradley Byrne, Mike Rogers, Robert Aderholt, Gary Palmer, and Mo Brooks, who all have free rides or token opposition. Our only Democratic Congressperson is Terri Sewell, who has no opposition. We will handicap the governor’s race 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.
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March of Dimes’ Linda Gross EAMC’s new equipment helps speaks to Opelika Kiwanis Club doctors and patients battle cancer Special to the Opelika Observer Linda Gross, Development Manager for the March of Dimes Greater Alabama Market, was a speaker at the Opelika Kiwanis Club on March 8. She announced that this year's March for Babies will be on May 12 in Opelika Municipal ‘Monkey’ Park. Pictured is Linda Gross with Program Chair Joanne Camp. Submitted to the Opelika Observer
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By Shawn Kirkpatrick Opelika Observer East Alabama Medical Center has a new way to battle cancer. The TrueBeam Radiotherapy System is now set up and ready to go at the cancer treatment center. It delivers pinpoint radiotherapy with precision directly to the patient’s tumor. The new machine is more powerful than the older machine
at the center, giving higher doses in a shorter amount of time. Each patient is treated in about 15 minutes. “Treatment time is so much better. Aligning the patients up and allowing us to be more precise where the radiation is going to go is so much better,” said EAMC Radiation Oncologist Dr. John Cabelka. “It’s nice for us, it’s great for the patients, but it’s great for the community, too. Look
to the person to your left and look to the person on your right, and one out of three will get cancer in their lifetime and will need chemotherapy or radiation.” The TrueBeam will eventually be moved to the new cancer center once it is built and another system will also be added. The cost for each TrueBeam is $3 million. The first patient received treatment earlier this week.
Check Out Our New Tiger Town Location Across from Lowe’s, another convenient location to serve our customers
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March 15 - 18, 2018
Callaway Resort & Gardens | Pine Mountain, Georgia
AuburnBank’s Tiger Town Kroger location has moved to a new, full-service location on Frederick Road in front of Lowe’s. Under the leadership of City President Eddie Smith, our new location provides three drive-up windows, a drive-up ATM, a night deposit drop, safe deposit boxes, consumer and commercial loans in addition to all our checking accounts, money market accounts, savings accounts,
A t l a s t , t h e S P R I N G e s c a p e y o u ’ v e b e e n w a i t i n g f o r Callaway Resort & Gardens’ dazzling display of Spring beauty just got even better. New this coming Spring, a celebration of culinary and beverage excellence like no other! SipandSavorSpring.com
Eddie Smith CITY PRESIDENT
certificates of deposit and numerous electronic products and services. We look forward to serving you at the new Tiger Town Branch. ICK RD.
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pelika O Observer Susie K’s Country Cooking now open for dinner A6
March 14, 2018
By Lawton Vallely For the Opelika Observer
Susie K’s Country Cooking, located at 1801 2nd Ave. in Opelika, will be extending their regular business hours. Originally known for their Southern homestyle breakfast and lunch, Susie K’s will now be serving dinner Monday through Saturday from 5-9 p.m. and serving
brunch on Saturdays until 2 p.m. “It’s all homestyle country cooking: everything is made from scratch,” said Susie K's Owner Suzanne Lowery. “Like our fried chicken fingers are battered in house, the casseroles are made from scratch, and the vegetables are made fresh daily in-house. So basically, if you could go get it from your grandmother’s house,
Lawton Vallely/Opelika Observer
it’s what we have here.” Dinner will feature a variety of customer favorites such as catfish, chicken livers, fried shrimp and fresh daily vegetables. Lowery said the dish she is most looking forward to serving for dinner is the fried pork chops. “We do serve them at lunch as well, but I’ve had a lot of requests to have them more than
once a week,” Lowery said. “They are soaked in buttermilk, so they are very tender and juicy. You just can’t go wrong with a fresh pork chop.” Customers may request new dinner items by visiting Susie K’s Facebook page. For more information, call Susie K’s at 334737-6065 or visit their Facebook page at www. facebook.com/SusieKsRestaurant/.
Local firm, Cappell & Howard, opens second office in Baldwin County
Special to the Opelika Observer Capell & Howard, P.C.’s newest office is open for business
ness growth and opportunities in the area. With offices in Montgomery, Auburn and Opelika, the firm’s newest location will expand its services, as well as increase its growing list of clients across Alabama. To further support the new office, the firm is honored to have the opportunity to work closely with the distinguished Fairhope law firm of Irby & Heard, P.C. on matters where such association would be helpful to clients. Sam Irby is the incoming President of the Alabama State Bar, the professional oversight organization for attorneys practicing in the state. “We’re excited to build on the synergy of our two firms, which have worked together successfully over the years,” Irby said. The new office is located at 317 Magnolia Ave. in Fairhope. Since 1947, the attorneys of Capell & Howard, P.C. have been providing clients with professional expertise coupled with an abiding commitment to client service. As a fullservice provider of legal advice and representation, its attorneys have been distinguished across a wide range of practice areas by best lawyers, super lawyers and the legal includes a drink industry. For more in917 So. Railroad Ave. 1151 Opelika Road Opelika, AL 36801 Auburn, AL 36830 formation, visit 334-787-5989 334-821-3118 www.capellhoward.com and Cawww.niffersplace.com pell & Howard’s dine in only, Mon-Fri 11-2 Facebook page.
in Baldwin County. For more than 70 years, a commitment to two core values — professional leadership and civic responsibility — has
defined Capell & Howard. The full-service law firm, with more than 40 attorneys, is dedicated to seeing Alabama thrive. “We are proud to announce the opening of a new branch office in Fairhope and even more excited to continue to build more relationships and friendships in Baldwin County and South Alabama,” said Managing Director Courtney Williams. Capell & Howard located the new office in downtown Fairhope because of continued busi-
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pelika O Observer
A7 March 14, 2018
Distinctive Boat Stickers Now Available, Senator Gerald Dial Says ALABAMA Control number
2016
AUG 326997
Special to the Opelika Observer Thanks to a 2016 law sponsored by Senator Gerald Dial (R-Lineville) and Representative Margie Wilcox (R-Mobile), Alabamians can now purchase a distinctive boat license sticker, similar to specialty
McLeod, from A1 fan, McLeod earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education administration from the university. She would go on to make a lasting impact on the area's local education system. Career in education McLeod began her career working at Hallie Turner Private School as a night teacher for four years. Then in 1973, she took on a fulltime teaching position at Scott Preparatory School, which became Lee-Scott Academy in 1981. After the two schools merged, McLeod stayed and added the role of coordinator of curriculum and instruction. In 1987, McLeod took a job with Opelika Middle School, but returned to LSA in 1992 as the school's first elementary principal, a title she would hold until she retired in 2014. Family An Opelika native, McLeod was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. W.T. Cooter Plant, Jr.
Bred Pub, from A1 atmosphere and menu, which will retain its signature Irish-influenced dishes. Along with the physical changes will be the addition of entertainment at the restaurant, which will include
motor vehicle tags. The boat license stickers cost an additional $50 over standard boat license tags, with $25 going to fund state parks and $25 going to the sponsoring organization of a particular specialty sticker. “Back in 2016, Governor Bentley’s administration
chose to close five state parks due to a budget crunch. Representative Wilcox and I decided we had to find an innovative way to increase money for the state parks, and there’s obviously a lot of passionate college sports fans out there who would love to have a Troy or Auburn
and was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, William (Bill) McLeod. The McLeod's have two children, David (Denise) and Molly (Greg), and four grandchildren, Matthew, Hannah, Caroline, Leah, and Dillon. One of McLeod's granddaughters shared her favorite memories of her grandmother. “My grandmother was a huge part of mine and my sister’s lives,” Caroline said. “She was present at every choir program, horseshow, graduation, and banquet. She even attended every single presentation of 'The Sound of Music' for which I was a character. I spent every single summer growing up at my grandparents’ lake house and therefore spent every weekend with her and my grandfather.” Recognition and dedication With more than 40 years of experience in the education field, McLeod's efforts were recognized when she was inducted into the Alabama Independent Schools Association Hall of Fame in 2013. A high honor designed to recognize
individuals who have made significant contributions to their schools, this passion and dedication for education was a trait she passed down to Caroline. “My grandmother (Mimi) and I both share the passion of educating and shaping young minds,” Caroline said. “Mimi always went the extra mile for her students. I heard story after story at her visitation about how she helped shape certain kids into the men and women that they are today. I would say that if I turn out to be half of the educator that she was I will have had a very successful career.” Loss for the community Through social media, many community members expressed their condolences and shared how McLeod's life inspired others to pursue a career in education. “Ms. McLeod was one of the major reasons I chose LSA 12 years ago,” wrote Elizabeth Anne Cater Childs. ”My children loved her dearly. So very sad to hear of her passing.” “Though she (Lexie) was so influenced by 'Mrs. McLeod,'
trivia night on Wednesdays, karaoke/open mic on Thursdays, live local bands on Fridays and deejays on Saturdays. “The upstairs (of IBP) was the rock-androll place of downtown … we were a place for people to get together and have fun. My goal is to make it that way again,” Garofalo said. Garofalo hinted that he is exploring the pos-
sibility of constructing a permanent outdoor stage behind the restaurant later this year to hold family-friendly events, concerts and more. For more information and updates about the event, like and follow the restaurant’s Facebook page or call 334-363-2235. IBP is located at 833 S. Railroad Ave.
sticker on their boats and at the same time, support Alabama’s parks,” Dial remarked on Wednesday afternoon. Any specialty motor vehicle tag is also available as a distinctive boat sticker. “There are over 40 different specialty tags that
the four-year-old who cried on her first day of class won’t be able to make the celebration of Nancy’s life at a church we all attended,” writer/ public speaker Kirk
VESSEL REGISTRATION EXPIRES
support everything from Alabama’s cattlemen to the Fraternal Order of Police to pro-life groups. These are wonderful organizations, and I am glad that Alabamians can show their civic spirit while also supporting Alabama’s twenty-two state parks,” Wilcox said.
Walden wrote in a blog post March 7. “No, because that day will be Lexie’s last (day) of student teaching a class of … kindergarten students.”
A funeral service honoring McLeod's life was held March 9 at Trinity United Methodist Church, and she was laid to rest at Garden Hills Cemetery.
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pelika O Observer
A8 March 14, 2018
Community Calendar: Events around town crops, and many more To view the full schedule please visit http://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.
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 334209-4641. 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 256-307-1449. Mondays: • “Gimme A Break” Support Group for autism parents will be held from 9-11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika. This is a monthly event on the first Monday of each month for
parents to connect with each other. • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika. • The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School band room. Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike. • Smiths Station Military Chapter of Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) meets weekly at Mike & Ed’s at 5 p.m. For more information, call 2975581 or visit www.nonukesforiran.org. • The Lee County Voters League meets the first Monday of every month at St. James Missionary Baptist Church, located at 1335 Auburn St. in Opelika. • The Touched by Suicide Support Group meets the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information, contact Deborah Owen, EAMC’s director of Psychiatric Services at 334-528-4197 or deboarhowen@eamc.org. • The fourth Monday of each month a Community Grief Support Group meets from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No
reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome. For more information call 826-1899 or 502-0216. • T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support group, meets every Monday night from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika. For more info contact Mary Johnson, 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 question via email. The webinars also are recorded and stored in the archive on the Beginning Farmer website. Webinar topics include: trap cropping for reducing squash insect pests, cowpea curculio updates, nutsedge control, introduction to potting mixes in ornamental container production, dealing with drought in commercial horticulture
Tuesdays: • Ballroom Dance Classes at the Opelika Sportsplex from 7-8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info call Diane at 749-6320. • A monthly educational program on topics for autism parents, caregivers and teachers will be held on the second Tuesday of each month at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Ave., Opelika from 6-7:30 p.m. Childcare is provided but reservations need to be made by contacting Maria Gutierrez at mariag@leecountyautism.com to make sure there are enough volunteers. • The East Alabama Old Car Club meets every first Tuesday at 7 p.m., at Monarch Estates Clubhouse, located at 1550 East University Drive, Auburn. A program of interest to the old car enthusiast is presented. Car ownership is not required. • The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. Meetings are preceded by non-voting work sessions that typically begin about 6:306:45 p.m. • Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard. The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6–8 p.m. 8685 AL Highway 51. • A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone dealing with the pain of loss and feeling the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved. The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College
and Opelika High School. For more information contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706518-9122. • The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday evening from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a non-profit organization that is Congressionally chartered to 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. Wednesdays: • The second Wednesday of each month a Community Grief Support Group meets from 10-11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 826-1899 or 502-0216. • Auburn-Opelika Chapter of Citizen’s Climate Lobby (CCL) meets every fourth Wednesday. CCL is a nonprofit, non-partisan, grassroots advocacy organization focused on national policies to address climate change. We consider a national carbon fee which would be distributed as a dividend to all U.S. households as the most important solution to climate change. Meetings are held at the Hubert and Grace Harris Center Meeting Room (425 Perry St., Auburn, AL 36830 --- directly across from the Auburn, AL U.S. Post Office), 7:00-8:30 PM. To learn more about CCL go to our website: https://citizensclimatelobby.org/ • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts bingo every Wednesday night at 6 p.m. • Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 - 8 p.m. Thursdays: • 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. • TNT – Teens N Transition is a monthly program for teens and young adults ages 14 and up. The group uses this time to learn social skills as well as connect with others on the autism spectrum. They have
enjoyed cooking, bowling, laser tag, movies and game nights. This event is held the third Thursday of each month. Visit leecountyautism.com for more information. • 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 770845-2277 for more information or luncheon location of the month. • The Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group meets at the Health Resource Center at 6 p.m. the first Thursday of each month. • T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends. Call 334-528-1076 for more information. •American Legion Auxillary Unit 152 meets the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. at Niffer’s Place, 917 S. Railroad Ave. in Opelika. • March 20 The March meeting of NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will take place at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 20, at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, 714 East Glenn Avenue in Auburn. NAMI supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy. There will be a time for sharing. The public is invited. • March 21 Faces of Dedication Ceremony at 5 p.m. in the Main Lobby of East Alabama Medical Center. We will be honoring the 2018 Faces of Dedication inductees. These are employees who retired with at least 35 years to our hospital. • March 22 Leaders of Distinction at 5:30 p.m. in the Main Lobby of East Alabama Medical Center. We will be honoring the 2018 Leaders of Distinction inductees. These are physicians with more than 30 years of service to EAMC. To add your community events to the community calendar, email us at editor@ opelikaobserver.com
Lee County Literacy Coalition to hold events
Master Gardeners Mulch Sale
10 - Noon (Dean Rd Rec Center) May 16 & 17: 10 -Noon (Dean Rd Rec Center) Evening Sessions: March 20 & 21 - 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. (EAMC Ed Center) April 17 & 18: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. (EAMC Ed Center) May 21 & 22: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. (EAMC Ed Center) Passing the Written Test (Getting Your Driver's License) is located at Dean Road Rec Center. This one-session (or more as needed) workshop presents material important to passing the written portion of the Alabama Driver's License Test. Material from the Alabama Driver Manual will be presented along with some driver safety videos and sample tests. Date of this session will be on April 11, 5 7p.m.
Lee County Master Gardeners fundraiser; selling pine bark mulch, will be at 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., on March 17 and 24. The location is the Lawrence Farm at 3327 Moores Mill Road in Auburn. The pine bark, purchased from a local lumber mill, is excellent for soil amendment or topdressing. The LCMGA pine bark mulch has been composting for the past year. The price, cash or check, is $25 per cu. yard for coarse and $35 for fine. There is a front-end loader tractor available for loading trucks or trailers. There will be Master Gardeners available to answer any questions. If either Saturday is rainy, the sale will be rescheduled.Visit LeeMG.org for more details.
TAG (Tutoring, ASVAB, and GED) – each Wednesday evening at EAMC Education Center (2027 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika) from 5-8 p.m. Come in if you need assistance preparing for your GED or need to boost your ASVAB score – contact tina@ leecountyliteracy.org or call 705-0001 for more info. Financial Literacy Workshops at EAMC Education Center and Dean Road Rec Center (307 S Dean Road, Auburn). This two-session workshop over two days covers basic financial information such as how to track spending, how to budget, and more. Call 705-0001 or email tina@ leecountyliteracy.org for more info Morning Sessions: March 21 & 22: 10 - Noon (Dean Rd Rec Center) April 18 & 19:
‘Sing to Remember’ The 2nd annual “Sing to Remember” event presented by the Alabama Alzheimer’s Association will be held March 31 at the Roanoke City Auditorium, beginning at 6 p.m. During the event, there will be performances from two gospel groups - “The McKameys” of Clinton, Tennessee and “The Exhorters” from Valley. A $12 donation will be requested at the door, with all proceeds going to the association to benefit their research and endeavors toward ending the disease. For more information, call Jerry Waldrep at 256-357-4147 or 770-359-9641. The auditorium is located at 100 Tiger Circle in Roanoke.
pelika O Observer
A9 March 14, 2018
Opelika Theatre Company lit up the stage with Miss Firecracker performances
outhern S Hospitality
A10 March 14, 2018
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Irish-inspired dishes
SH Ann Cipperly’s
Southern Hospitality
While a St. Patrick’s Day Festival will be held downtown this March 17, I don’t remember hearing much about St. Patrick’s Day when I was growing up in Opelika. After we moved to Philadelphia I was surprised to hear there was going to be a parade. We were living in an apartment one block off Broad Street, the main street in the city. It was an easy walk to watch the parade go by. I kept asking Don why there was a parade and why we were supposed to be wearing green. The following year we were visiting Don’s parents in New York on March 17. I was hoping his mother was making a standing rib roast with Yorkshire pudding for dinner. I was disappointed to hear it was going to be corned beef in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. We never ate corned beef at home in Opelika, so I had not developed a taste for it. However, after that I found myself cooking a corned beef in Philadelphia and later in New Jersey on St. Patrick’s Day. While Don liked corned beef, I thought the best part was the cabbage, which our small children did not like at
all. After we moved back to Opelika, I probably cooked corned beef a few years and then forgot about it. For fun, I thought I would do something to celebrate this year. After all, I recently discovered I am part Irish. As a gift to Don and me, our kids sent us a DNA kit. While both of Don’s parents had books and records of ancestry going back hundreds of years, my parents didn’t have much. It seemed Don’s ancestry included royalty and an American President, and my lineage was peanut and poor dirt farmers. I knew many men in my mother’s family died in the Battle of Atlanta, and she talked about a plantation house that burned. I was somewhat surprised to learn I am 53 percent French, which might explain my mother’s family’s cooking gene, and 40 percent Irish, which had to be from my father’s family of redheads and blondes. Once I learned about St. Patrick’s Day, I was interested in the missionary himself. St. Patrick was a 5th-century Romano-British Christian missionary and bishop in Ireland who converted the Irish people to Christianity. History records that he was born in Roman Britain into a wealthy Romano-British family. His father was Christian with his father being a deacon and his grandfather a priest. When he was 16 years old, St. Patrick was captured by Irish raiders and taken to Gaelic, Ireland where he spent six years herding sheep. During that time he became a Christian. He recorded that God told him to escape to
Recipes Corned Beef and Cabbage 4 to 5 lb. corned beef brisket 1 medium onion, quartered 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 medium size cabbage, trimmed of outer leaves, cored and cut into 8 wedges Place brisket, onion and garlic in a large pan or Dutch oven; cover with water. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Cover tightly and simmer for 4 hours. Skim fat from liquid. Add cabbage; cover and cook 15 to 20 minutes. Serve with boiled
potatoes and a horseradish or mustard sauce, if desired. Slice against the grain. Mustard Glazed Corned Beef: Cook brisket as directed in above recipe. When cooked, place brisket in a shallow baking pan. Pour the Mustard Sauce over the top of the brisket. Bake 30 minutes in a 350-degree oven. Mustard Sauce: 2 Tbsp. butter 1/3 cup brown sugar 3 Tbsp. cider vinegar Mix all ingredients in a saucepan. Heat and stir until just blended.
Reuben Pinwheels 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup Thousand Island or Russian Salad Dressing 1/2 cup sauerkraut, rinsed and drained (optional) 8 oz. shredded or sliced Swiss cheese 12 oz. corned beef deli meat (thinly sliced) 8 flour tortillas Mix together cream cheese and dressing until smooth and creamy. Mix in sauerkraut.
Spread one side of a tortilla with cream cheese mixture, almost all the way to the edges. Sprinkle some of he cheese and then place a few slices of corned beef on top. Roll up tortilla tightly. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Cover rolled tortillas and refrigerate at least 1 hour. When ready to serve, slice into rounds. Serve with extra dressing for dipping.
the coast to a ship that would take him home. After he became a priest, he felt his heart calling him back to Ireland to tell the people about Christ. At age 60, he returned to the northern part of Ireland and converted thousands to Christianity. St. Patrick died on March 17 (believed by some to be in the year 460) and was buried at Downpatrick. Over the centuries, stories and legends were passed down. It is said he drove the snakes out of Ireland, while others say Ireland never had snakes. The story of St. Patrick using a three-leaved shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity was discovered in ancient writings. In the early 17th century, St. Patrick’s Day was made an official Christian feast day in Ireland. Over the years, celebrations have involved parades, festivals, wearing of green clothing and in some cities, dyeing lakes or fountains green. On St. Patrick’s Day, it became customary to wear green clothing or green accessories, the “wearing of the green”, which is the color associated with Catholics in Ireland. Green has been associated with Ireland since the 1640s or earlier. A green harp flag was used by the Irish Catholic Confederation. Corned beef is the traditional fare for St. Patrick’s Day. Corned beef doesn’t have anything to do with corn. It received its name in Anglo-Saxon times when a granular salt called corn was used in processing the meat. Whether you are Irish or not, plan a special meal in
Photo by Ann Cipperly Whether you are Irish or not, plan a special meal or dessert in honor of St. Patrick on March 17. Serve a dessert tinted green, such as the Chocolate Layered Peppermint Brownies. The filling was doubled in the brownies pictured and then garnished with fresh mint. honor of St. Patrick. Following are a variety of recipes for preparing corned beef or creating a green hued dessert. Instead of preparing a corned beef, you can assemble Reuben rolls or roll-ups from corned beef in the deli section of the grocery store. You can also use the same filling to make sliders with small rolls. Serve the Reuben creations with Thousands Island or Russian Dressing. You can find plenty of prepared brands or make your own. Thousand Island Dressing is sweeter studded with pickle relish, while Russian Dressing generally omits the relish and is spiced with horseradish. If you prefer not to prepare an entire Irish meal, you can dine out at a restaurant during the downtown Festival and serve a special dessert at home. Main Street is co-spon-
Thousand Island Dressing 1 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup ketchup or chili sauce 1 cup or less sweet
pickle relish Combine ingredients in a small bowl. Chill until ready to serve. Keeps well in refrigerator.
Russian Dressing 1 cup mayonnaise 1/2 cup ketchup or chili sauce 3 or 4 tsp. or to taste bottled horseradish
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce Combine ingredients in a small bowl. Chill until ready to serve. Keeps well in refrigerator.
Chocolate Layered Peppermint Brownies Brownie Base: 4 oz. (4 oz. box) unsweetened chocolate 1 cup butter, softened 4 eggs 2 cups sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup all-purpose flour Frosting: ½ cup butter or margarine, softened 1 box 10x powdered sugar 4 Tbsp. milk 2 tsp. peppermint extract Green food coloring, optional Topping: 4 oz. (4 oz. box) unsweetened chocolate 4 Tbsp. butter Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Melt chocolate and butter on low heat; add eggs, which have been beaten with the sugar. Stir in vanilla and flour. Grease a large shallow pan (I use a 12 by 18 inch rimmed cookie sheet lined with foil and
sprayed with Pam). Bake for 10 to 13 minutes or until brownies are set and start to pull away from the sides. Do not over bake. Cool. To make frosting, cream butter and add sugar alternately with milk. Add extract and food coloring, if desired. Spread over cooled brownies. Chill. When the frosting is chilled, make the topping. In a small saucepan, melt butter and chocolate squares. Drizzle over frosting; spread with a knife or back of a spoon to cover completely. Chill until topping is set. Freezes well. Note: Can bake half of brownie recipe in 8 or 9-inch square pan for about 19 minutes or until set. For a decadent brownie, spread the full recipe of the filling over the base and drizzle with half the recipe of the topping.
soring the St. Patrick’s Day Festival March 17 from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. The street will be blocked between 9th and Railroad Ave. and up towards the courthouse to Avenue A for an all day St. Patrick’s Day street festival. The event will feature bands, Irish dance programs, as well as arts and crafts. It is also the grand re- grand opening of IBP, which will be serving Irish fare. While I have visited France and several countries in Europe, I have not made it to Ireland, but maybe one day I will. Don has been, and his mother made several trips. Once she went to Cork, Ireland and kissed the Blarney Stone, believing it would bring good luck. She did live to be 97, but when I go, even though I am part Irish, I am skipping that tradition. Ann Cipperly can be contacted at recipes@cipperly. com.
Crème de Menthe Brownies Pat Brown 1/2 cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar 4 eggs 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. salt 1 1/2 cups Hershey's Chocolate Syrup in a brown squeeze bottle 1 tsp. vanilla Cream 1/2 cup butter. Gradually add sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Combine flour and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with chocolate syrup, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Stir in vanilla. Pour batter into a greased and floured 13 x 9 baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-28
minutes. Cool completely. (Brownies will shrink from sides while cooling.) Filling and Topping: ½ cup softened butter, divided 2 cups sifted powdered sugar 2 Tbsp. Crème De Menthe 6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips Cream 1/4 cup butter; gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar and Crème de Menthe, mixing well. Spread evenly over brownies. Chill 1 hour. Combine chocolate morsels and remaining 1/4 cup butter in top of double boiler; bring water to boil. Reduce heat to low; stir until chocolate melts. Spread over brownies. Chill for at least 1 hour. Cut into squares while cold.
Madison’s Lime Cake or Cupcakes Julia Moreman Add green food coloring to mix for St. Patrick’s Day. 1 pkg. yellow cake mix 1 pkg. instant lemon pudding ½ cup water ½ cup key lime juice 1 cup oil 4 eggs Combine all ingredients and bake in greased 9 by 12-inch baking dish for a cake or in paper baking cups for cupcakes at 325 degrees. Cake
may take 45 minutes, but cupcakes will bake in less time. Check for doneness with toothpick. Frost with glaze. Glaze 2 cups powdered sugar ½ cup key lime juice While cake or cupcakes are warm, mix ingredients for glaze. Using a toothpick or fork, prick holes in cake or cupcakes; pour glaze over top.
See Recipes, B7
Opelika Schools, ports ociety S &S
March 14, 2018
Section
B
Inside • Puzzles • Restaurant Health Scores • Religion page
Five OHS basketball players selected to play in Georgia-Alabama All Star Game on March 16
Alexis Browning
By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Five Opelika High School senior boys and girls basketball players have been selected to participate in Friday’s
Abrea Green
Georgia-Alabama All Star Game at the Columbus Civic Center. Presented by Hot100 FM, a Columbus-based hip hop and R&B station, the second annual event will showcase
Jorden Heard
the area’s best players competing in exhibition games, three-point shootouts, dunk contests and more. The game will be played at the Columbus Civic Center Friday
night, with the underclass girls game beginning at 5 p.m. Tickets, which can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com, are $12.50 in advance and $15 at the door.
Anita Payne
Following is a list of information about Opelika's selections: Alexis Browning Height: 5 foot 10 inches Position: Center
Austin Pitts
College: Uncommitted, leaning toward Lawson State Community College in Birmingham A two-sport athlete, See All Stars, page B5
Opelika boys soccer falls 1-0 to Benjamin Russell On the Mark By D. Mark Mitchell
GIRLS TENNIS The Opelika girls tennis team went 1-2 last week, beating Sylacauga 8-1 and falling to Northside 7-2 and Dothan 5-4. Against Sylacauga, Opelika won five singles matches and three doubles. Singles winners included: Sara Hollis Smith T 8-3; Mary Bentley Barfield 8-0; Martlynn Grouby 8-2 and Raeden Gagliano 9-8. Doubles winners included: Smith T/ Barfield 8-2; Grouby/ Gagliano 8-3 and Bell/Victoria Tufts
8-4. Against Northside, Opelika won two singles matches: Blake Bell 10-1 and Laney McTier 10-0. Against Dothan, Opelika won three singles matches: Readen Gagliano, who won 8-1; Blake Bell 8-2 and McTier 9-7. The doubles team of Grouby/Gagliano won 8-6. BOYS TENNIS The Opelika boys tennis team won three matches last week against Sylacauga 6-3, See Sports, page B2
Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The Opelika boys fell 1-0 to Benjamin Russell last Thursday. With the loss, the boys fall to 4-4-2 overall for the season. Their next home match will be tonight against Central, beginning at 7 p.m.
Opelika baseball beats Valley, goes 1-2 on road trip to Tuscaloosa last weekend Turn to B2 for more photos of Opelika’s 3-1 win against Valley Feb. 26.
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Sports, from B1
Northside 8-1 and Dothan 7-2. Against Sylacauga, singles winners included: Wilson Hudson 8-4; Grayson Crowley 8-4; Austin Crowley 8-1 and Parker McKay 8-5. Hudson and Conner Pruitt won the lone doubles match. Against Northside, Opelika won five singles and three doubles matches. Singles winners included: Pruitt 10-4, Hudson 10-4, Grayson Crowley 10-3, Austin Crowley 9-8 and Jack Whatley 101. Doubles winners were: Pruitt/Hudson 10-3, Crowley/Crowley 10-4 and McKay/ Ben Estes 10-1. Against Dothan, singles winners included Grayson Crowley 8-5, Parker McKay 8-5 and
Jack Whatley 8-5. Doubles winners, Pruitt/Hudson 9-8, Crowley/Crowley 8-4 and McKay/Ben Estes 8-4. BASEBALL The Opelika baseball team went 1-2 last weekend in Tuscaloosa. The Bulldogs started the trip on a positive note by beating Brookwood 11-3 Friday night. Opelika scored 11 runs on 12 hits. Andrew Parr led the team at the plate, going 3-for-4. Latrelle Gullate, Micah Christian, Kory McCoy, Andrew Parr, Jackson Craft and Jared Willis each added hits. Parr earned the win, pitching 5 and 1/3 innings, allowing six hits and three runs and striking out seven. Opelika lost two games Saturday, 5-4 to Northridge and 11-2 to Hewitt-Trussville. The Bulldogs led Northridge 4-0 heading into the sev-
enth inning, but the Rams scored five runs in the seventh to win. T.J. Jones led Opelika at the plate with two hits. Hewitt-Trussville scored seven runs in the first inning to coast to the 11-2 win. Opelika is currently 7-7. SOCCER The Opelika boys and girls soccer teams played sectional opponent Benjamin Russell last week. The girls beat the Lady Wildcats 4-2. Amiya Brown scored two goals to lead the team, and Madi Rush and Megan Noon each added goals. The Opelika boys lost 1-0 in overtime. The two teams battled to a 0-0 tie in regulation to force overtime. OPELIKA ATHLETICS Prior to being named head football coach, Erik Speakman held the athletic director position. Opelika City Schools Super-
intendent Dr. Mark Neighbors has said that a new AD would not be named immediately, but could be after the 2017-18 school year. Neighbors decided to split the head football coach and athletic director positions after Brian Blackmon resigned to pursue an offensive analyst position with Auburn University. This is the first time the football coach was not the AD at Opelika High School. Neighbors explained his decision to OCS board members in 2017, explaining the strenuous nature of the jobs as reasons why to keep them separate. New updates will be provided when they become available. D. Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys State Director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council.
Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
The Opelika girls defeated Benjamin Russell 4-2 last Thursday. Amiya Brown scored two goals, and Madi Rush and Megan Noon each added goals in the sectional victory.
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Opelika
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Family & Religion
March 14, 2018
Flipping the script
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hat’s the most radical, out there thing you’ve ever done? Bungee jumping? Sky diving? Hang gliding? If you are a disciple of Jesus, the answer is none of the above—it is being baptized. Now I would grant that most of us don’t tend to think of baptism that way, but we should. For many people who grew up in the church loving and serving God, being baptized just seems like a natural progression (and in some ways it is). But it is much, much more. Think about it like marriage. Before getting married, you might care for someone deeply and spend significant amounts of time with them. But if you hit a snag as a couple, grow
matter what apart or just the circumcan’t make it stances turn work—you out to be.” part because That’s the the only thing sweeping keeping you nature of together was by Bruce Green the comyour mutual Teaching Minister at mitment agreement. 10th Street Church of we make But when Christ in Opelika at maryou marry, riage and you make a we’d have a better world commitment before God if more people underand man to live as one with someone until death stood that and followed through on it. parts you. You promise That’s exactly what to love each other in good times and bad. The baptism is about. As with sad truth that many trivi- marriage, it is where alize this doesn’t change we formalize our commitment to be one with the radical nature of the God. Jesus is made Lord commitment. Lewis of our life. We die to Smedes said, “When a self so we might live for person makes a promHim. Paul develops all of ise, he stretches himself this in the sixth chapter out into circumstances of Romans. And while that no one can control jumping off a bridge and controls at least one thing: he will be there no with a bungee cord tied
Church Calendar
• Liberty Baptist Church invites everyone to “Music Only” services every fifth Sunday night. Special groups and singers will be invited to participate and lead the worship. Liberty Baptist is located at 2701 West Point Parkway. • Every fifth Sunday evening, Lake Pointe Baptist Church, located at 8352 Highway 50 in Dadeville, hosts a gospel singing at 6:30 p.m. • The Auburn Music Club Singers practice on Tuesdays during the academic year from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the music ministry room at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church on Church Drive off South Gay Street. New members are welcomed.For more information, contact director Phyllis Gauker at 334-8877261 or at pgauker@bellsouth. net.
Catch ‘On the Mark’ with D. Mark Mitchell and Jeff Sasser weekday mornings from 7-9 a.m.
Please submit your church announcements to editor@ opelikaobserver.com! Content must be turned in by Friday at noon for Wednesday publication.
ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 1311 Second Ave. #758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta #742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy #749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. #749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. #745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy #749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B #7064421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. #745-6670 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave #742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. #745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd #745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. #745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. #745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. #742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr #749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. #887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika
ANIMAL HEALTH CENTER
HOMER S. (BUDDY) BRUCE, D.V.M. BRUCE ENTERPRISES, INC.
1520 Second Ave. Opelika, AL 36801
745.0060
24-Hour Service
• A community-wide program for people with memory loss will be held at Auburn United Methodist Church every Tuesday and Thursday. Classes will last from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. For more information, contact program director Betsy Lethander by email at Betsy.Lethander@ aumc.net, or by phone at 334444-9632 for more information. • Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church, located at 201 South 4th St., will observe their annual Missionary Day Program March 18, beginning at 2 p.m. Rev/Dr. C.L. Daniel and the Historic Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church of Notasulga will be present at the event.
Events can be emailed to the Observer at editor@opelikaobserver.com.
314 S. 9th St. #745-6143 First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. #745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact 709 Avenue E #741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. #703-3333 Friendship Missionary Baptist 432 Maple Avenue #742-0105 Greater Peace Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave. #749-9487 Heritage Baptist Church 1103 Glenn St. #363-8943 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 Liberty Baptist Church 2701 West Point Pkwy #749-9632 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. #745-2905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 #334-745-3600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy #745-5340 Pepperell Baptist Church 2702 2nd Ave. #745-3108 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd #749-2773 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Rd 166 #745-0807 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. #745-3224 Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd #741-7770 BUDDHIST Buddha Heart Village 3170 Sandhill Rd. #821-7238
CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. #749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy #742-9721 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St. #745-5181 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. #745-6015 Church of Christ 2660 Cunningham Drive #745-6377 CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd #749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place #7496432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court #745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. #749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. #745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 Opelika, Ala. 36804 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. #826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. #742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A #745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 #745-0460
to us or jumping out of a perfectly good airplane might seem really out there —it’s over within a few seconds or a few minutes. What we do when we are baptized has to do with how we will live the rest of our life. It is where we begin to take up our cross and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23). Long before the Catholics and Protestants started feuding about baptism (and unfortunately providing us with the lens through which most people look at it today), being immersed was the decisive, definitive act of declaring allegiance to Christ (see this in the book of Acts). “Believing in the Lord Jesus” (Acts 16:31) meant something more than the way it is often explained
today. For the jailer who was told this, believing involved hearing the word of the Lord (v. 32), repentance and baptism (v. 33). Only after he had done these things did he rejoice because he had “come to believe in God” (v. 34). There was no easy believism here— but a commitment to Jesus reigning in his life as Lord and Savior. The birth of water and Spirit that is baptism is summed by the song that says, “I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back.” We’d have a better world if more people understood that and followed through on it. Bruce has written an entry-level book on Revelation called The Thrill of Hope. It is available through Amazon.
Verse of the Week “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world,”
1 John 4:4 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922
Family Life Christian Center 601 S. 7th St. #741-7013 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris Ave. #749-1070 Fellowship Bible Church 2202 Hamilton Rd #749-1445 Ferguson Chapel Church 310 S. 4th St. #745-2913 First Assembly of God Church 510 Simmons St. #749-3722 Garden of Gethsemane Fellowship 915 Old Columbus Rd #745-2686 Grace Heritage Church Opelika #559-0846 Holy Deliverance Church 831 S. Railroad #749-5682 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Living Way Ministries 1100 Old Columbus Rd #749-6241 Move of God Fellowship Church 1119 Old Columbus Rd #741-1006 Connect Church 2900 Waverly Pkwy #749-3916 New Life Christian Center 2051 West Point Pkwy #741-7373 New Life Independent Church 10 Meadowview Estates Trailer 741-9001 Opelika’s First Seventh Day 2011 Columbus Pkwy #737-3222 Power of Praise, Inc. Church 3811 Marvyn Pkwy #745-6136 Shady Grove Christian Church West Point Hwy #745-7770
Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!
603 Pleasant Drive Opelika, AL 36801 749-1333 Mon- Sat 7am-8pm Sun 12pm-6pm
The Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home Gospel Train Sunday mornings from 6-10 a.m.
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LEGALS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, April 17, 2018, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 204 S. 7 th Street, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. PURPOSE The purpose of said Public Hearing will be to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend Ordinance Number 124-91 (entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika”) adopted on September 17, 1991. At said Public Hearing all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to the adoption of the following ordinance: ORDINANC NO._________ ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING 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, March 27, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers in the Public Works Administrative Building located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama. The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public comment on the following: 1. A public hearing on a request by Alva T. Webb II, authorized representative for Donald W & Melissa M. Allen, property owner, for preliminary plat approval of the Veterans Commercial Park subdivision consisting of 15 lots accessed at the 200 block
MAP OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA (NATIONAL VILLAGE PUD) BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. FINDINGS. The City Council has determined and hereby finds and declares that the following facts are true and correct: (a) The Employees’ Retirement System of Alabama and the Teacher’s Retirement System of Alabama (collectively “RSA”) heretofore submitted to the City a Development Plan for a planned unit development (“PUD”) entitled National Village consisting of approximately five hundred eighty-nine (589) acres. (b) Pursuant to Ordinance No. 129-06 the City Council approved said Development Plan for National Village and amended the official Zoning of Veterans Parkway. 2. A public hearing on a request by Mike Maher, authorized representative for Neil D. & Kellie R. Byrd and Stonybrook LLC, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Stonybrook, Redivision of Lots 50, 51, and 52 subdivision consisting of 3 lots at 3103 and 3101 Stonybrook Circle. 3. A public hearing on a request by Nathan McBride, authorized representative for Gordan A. Moss of Weyerhaeuser, property owner, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Sentinel Hills Expansion, Portion of Lot A43 subdivision consisting of 1 lot accessed at Lee Road 2192. 4. A public hearing on a request by Bolt Engineering, Inc., authorized representative for Jose Gonzalez, property owner, for conditional use approval for outside storage and warehouse for JG Bros Construction, Inc (brick/ stone masonry business) at
Map of the City to designate the zoning classification of Planned Unit Development (PUD) for approximately five hundred eighty-nine (589) acres located adjacent to the Grand National Golf facilities and the Lodge and Conference Center at Grand National. (c) In 2008, the City Council amended the PUD for National Village by adding approximately ninety-four (94) acres to the original PUD. (d) The entire development, with inclusion of said ninetyfour (94) acres, consists in the aggregate of six hundred and eighty-three (683) acres. (e) RSA has heretofore submitted to the City a proposed amended Development Plan for National Village which plan will add nineteen (19) courtyard homes within a 7.32-acre parcel located in Village 6 of the Master Plan, or more commonly referred to as the “Town Center”. the 2900 block of Wyndham Industrial Drive. 5. A public hearing on a request by Howard J. Porter, Jr., authorized representative for H.J. Porter & Associates, Inc., property owner, for conditional use approval for a canine training facility at 2401 Poplar Street. 6. (a) A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on the request by Ledge Nettles, authorized representative for W. F. Cook, Jr., property owner, to rezone 16.6 acres located at the 2700 block of Society Hill Road from a R-1 zoning district to a C-2 zoning district. (b) An agenda item relating to the rezoning request concerning an amendment to the Future Land Use Map for the 16.6 acres at the 2700 block of Society Hill Road from low density residential to light commercial if the Planning Commission votes to send a positive recommendation to the City Council to rezone the property.
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, STATE OF ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA SUSAN HULL, : Case No: Deceased. : NOTICE TO CREDITORS TO BE PUBLISHED BY EXECUTOR In the Matter of the Estate of LINDA SUSAN HULL, Deceased, Letters Testamentary having been granted to MARK STEVEN HULL on the 4 th day of December, 2017, by the Honorable
Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within six months after the grant of letters, or within five months from the date of the first publication of this notice, whichever is the later to occur, or the same will be barred. Witness my hand this 4th day of December, 2017. First publication: 2/28/2018 /s/ Bill EnglishJudge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 2/28/18, 3/7/18, 3/14/18
NOTICE OF ABADONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Friday, April 6, 2018, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Ope-
lika, AL 36801. 1HGCG1658WA073347 1998 HONDA ACCORD Legal Run 3/14/18 & 3/21/18
IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF MICHAEL GEORGE LANCE, Plaintiff, vs. JANINE K. LANCE, Defendant, IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY,ALABAMA CASE NO.: DR-2018900031.00 NOTICE OF DIVORCE ACTION Janine Lance, whose whereabouts are unknown, must answer Michael George Lance’s Petition for Divorce
and other relief by the 15th day of February, 2018, or thereafter judgment by default may be rendered against her in Case No. DR-201890031.00 Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama. Done this the 15th day of February, 2018. Mary B. Roberson CIRCUIT CLERK LEE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT Legal run: 2/28/18, 3/7/18, 3/14/18, 3/21/18
NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Monday, April 2, 2018, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801.
1GNEK18K8RJ346694 1994 CHEVROLET K5 BLAZER 1B7GE16X7LS745105 1990 DODGE D150 Legal Run 3/7/18 & 3/14/18
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, STATE OF ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF : MISTY LEE HALL, : Case No: Deceased. : NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Matter of the Estate of MISTY LEE HALL, Deceased, Letters of Administrationhaving been granted to MICHAEL ROGERS HALL, Personal Representative, on the 22 nd day of February, 2017, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby
given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within six months after the grant of letters, or within five months from the date of the first publication of this notice, whichever is the later to occur, or the same will be barred. Witness my hand this 22nd day of February, 2018. First publication: 2/28/2018 /s/ Bill English Judge of Probate, Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 2/28/18, 3/7/18, 3/14/18
(f) The proposed amendment will increase the density in Village 6 from 2.00 units per acre to 3.27 units per acre. (g) The Planning Commission of the City of Opelika heretofore conducted a public hearing on the proposed amended Development Plan. (h) The Planning Commission recommended approval of the amended Development Plan for National Village PUD. (i) It is advisable and in the interest of the City and the public interest that the amended Development Plan be approved. Section 2. APPROVAL OF AMENDED DEVELOPMENT PLAN. The amended Development Plan as submitted for review is hereby approved and confirmed as required by Section 8.1 8(n) of the Zoning Ordinance of the City. Section 3. RETENTION OF COPIES OF THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN. Copies of
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 Lisa McLeod, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-7055132 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability. PLANNING DIRECTOR Legal Run 3/14/2018
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of James Truett Gullage, Deceased. Case No. 2018-A-084 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Julia C. Gullage, as Executrix of the Estate of James Truett Gullage, deceased on the 23rd day of February, 2018, by the Honorable 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. JULIA C. GULLAGE, Executrix of the Estate of James Truett Gullage, deceased BILL ENGLISH Probate Judge Legal Run 2/28, 3/7 & 3/14/2018
CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, AL, FAMILY COURT DIVISION: JUVENILE IN THE MATTER OF: C.L.B. A minor child, JU-2016483.02 NOTICE TO: The unknown father of C.L.B. born 8/29/2008 at Piedmont Newnan Hospital, in Newnan, GA. Custody of the minor child C.L.B. was vested with the Lee County DHR on 10/27/016. The unknown father must answer the Petition to Terminate Parental Rights filed in the Fmaily Court of Lee County, AL by Lee County DHR, within fourteen (14)
days from the last date of publication of the notice, or a final judgment may be renderedin Juvenile Case Number JU 2016-483.02 in the Family Court of Lee County, AL terminating all parental rights to the minor child. Mary Roberson, CIRCUIT CLERK, Lee County Justice Center, 2311 Gateway Dr. Opelika, AL 36801 Hon. Margaret A. Mayfield, Attorney for Lee County DHR, P.O. Box 809, Opelika, AL 36803, (334) 7450333 Legal Run 2/21/18, 2/28/18, 3/7/18 & 3/14/18
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DOLORES H. HOGAN, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 5 th day of March, 2018, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. ROBERT D. HOGAN, JR. Personal Representative Legal Run 3/14, 3/21 & 3/28
the amended Development Plan shall be maintained in the office of the City Clerk, City Planner, City Engineer, and Building Official and shall be open for public inspection. Section 4. REPEALER. That any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed. Section 5. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption, approval and publication as required by law. Section 6. PUBLICATION. This Ordinance shall be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. WITNESS my hand this the 14 th day of March, 2018. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA LEGAL RUN 3/14/2018
NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING CASE NO: 2018-A-131 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution in the Estate of SANDRA JEAN JOHNSON, deceased. Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by DEMETRICE CLAUDETTE JOHNSON on March 9, 2018, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 3/14/2018
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, April 17, 2018, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 204 S. 7 th Street, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. PURPOSE The purpose of said Public Hearing will be to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend Ordinance Number 124-91 (entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika”) adopted on September 17, 1991. At said Public Hearing all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to the adoption of the following ordinance: ORDINANCE NO. _______ AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. That Ordinance 124-91 entitled “Zoning Ordinance City of Opelika, Alabama”, adopted on September 17, 1991, and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika provided for and referred to therein, as previously amended and/or modified, be and the same is hereby amended by zoning or districting the parcel of land hereinafter in this section described, to a R-2 District (Low-Density Residential District): All the certain tract of land containing 160.69 acres lying in and being a part of Section 32, Township 19 North, Range 27 East, Lee County, Alabama being more particularly described as follows: Commencing at a 3/4” Open Top Pipe at the Southeast Corner of Section 32, Township 18 North, Range 27 East in Lee County, Alabama, go N03°36’00”W, 784.00 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING, thence go N03° 36’ 00” W, 2993.20 feet, thence following a curve with a chord bearing of S89° 16’ 53” W, chord distance of 106.78 feet, with a radius concaving to the southwest 60.00 feet, thence go S88° 40’ 32” W, 1021.74 feet, thence go S06° 35’ 58” W, 236.76 feet, thence go S18° 59’ 41” E, 193.43 feet, thence go S39° 12’ 08” W, 116.01 feet, thence go N83° 55’ 26” W, 85.19 feet, thence go S32° 08’ 17” W, 314.90 feet, thence go N82° 51’ 04” W, 116.58 feet, thence go S67° 03’ 19” W, 98.18 feet, thence go S70° 20 ‘ 56 “W, 77.74 feet, thence go S29° 36 ‘ 12 “E, 191.87 feet, thence go S12° 34’ 49” E, 231.75 feet, thence go S10° 23’ 19” W, 215.90 feet, thence go S36° 22’ 22” W, 203.69 feet, thence go S67° 45’ 23” W, 162.96 feet, thence go S66° 04’ 28” W, 144.51 feet, thence go S50° 11’ 56” W, 135.17 feet, thence go S17° 49’ 17” E, 131.90 feet, thence go S35° 17’ 50” W, 152.65 feet, thence go N88° 29’ 59” E, 62.72 feet, thence go S15° 09’ 39” E, 4.65 feet, thence go S37° 18’ 29” E, 131.55 feet, thence go S32° 19’ 31” E, 102.35 feet, thence go S12° 54’26” E, 171.90 feet, thence go S45° 34’ 58” E, 159.06 feet, thence go S14° 02’ 37” E, 69.55 feet, thence go S00° 31’ 14” W, 217.19 feet, thence go S12°
40’ 17” E, 71.19 feet, thence go S06° 32’ 18” W, 82.20 feet, thence go S37° 13’ 20” W, 124.31 feet, thence go N87° 50’ 52” W, 259.56 feet, thence go N74° 30’ 01” W, 139.95 feet, thence go N65° 59’ 32” W, 89.16 feet, thence go N71° 42’ 26” W, 124.05 feet, thence go N58° 39’ 52” W, 116.42 feet, thence go N55° 03’ 45” W, 89.34 feet, thence go N55° 05’ 21” W, 92.56 feet, thence go N47° 51’ 44” W, 94.47 feet, thence go N37° 32’ 19” W, 137.12 feet, thence go N51° 22’ 33” W, 121.74 feet, thence go N80° 25’ 08” W, 138.54 feet, thence go N38° 53’ 43” W, 156.75 feet, thence go N59° 09’ 16” W, 151.24 feet, thence go N55° 55’ 42” W, 71.00 feet, thence go N20° 41’ 39” W, 117.27 feet, thence go N30° 17’ 06” W, 50.10 feet, thence go N48° 47’ 11” W, 63.74 feet, thence go N61° 37’ 45” W, 67.43 feet, thence go N79° 46’ 31” W, 37.56 feet, thence go N85° 28’ 49” W, 33.89 feet, thence go S32° 45’ 15” W, 39.33 feet, thence go S17° 15’ 37” E, 264.93 feet, thence go S39° 01’ 08” E, 156.48 feet, thence go S29° 54’ 15” E, 109.22 feet, thence go S20° 03’ 57” E, 109.76 feet, thence go S26° 47’ 04” E, 121.40 feet, thence go S28° 04’ 43” E, 109.13 feet, thence go S41° 57’ 39” E, 125.27 feet, thence go S54° 52’ 49” E, 115.84 feet, thence go N75° 06’ 18” E, 189.85 feet, thence go S74° 34’ 20” E, 165.76 feet, thence go S19° 58’ 33” E, 172.71 feet, thence go S48° 10’ 32” E, 188.57 feet, thence go S32° 40’ 16” E, 99.50 feet, thence go S10° 56’ 26” W, 72.22 feet, thence go S49° 29’ 59 “ W, 81.98 feet, thence go S63° 07’ 49” E, 131.71 feet, thence go S56° 29’ 12” E, 78.91 feet, thence go N53° 17’ 06” E, 83.34 feet, thence go N26° 02’ 37” E, 117.27 feet, thence go S72° 52’ 13” E, 132.96 feet, thence go S65° 10’ 58” E, 181.35 feet, thence go S21° 28’ 17” W, 189.12 feet, thence go N89° 11’ 12” E, 35.93 feet, thence following a curve with a chord bearing of S39° 58’ 21” E, chord distance of 76.66 feet, with a radius concaving to the northeast 50.00 feet, thence go N89° 11’ 00” E, 920.87 feet, thence go N33° 02’ 11” W, 192.45 feet, thence go N79° 11’ 50” E, 473.47 feet, thence go N32° 40’ 46” W, 326.37 feet, thence following a curve with a curve bearing of N00° 37’ 58” E, a chord distance of 66.13 feet, with a radius concaving to the east 70.00 feet, thence go S67° 34’ 15” E, 198.58 feet, thence go S84° 24’ 21” E, 434.42 feet, thence go N51° 27’ 07” E, 525.74 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING. The abovedescribed property will be developed as Phase IV of Fox Chase on Emerald Lake Subdivision. The above-described property lies generally south and west of Lee Road 621 and east of Pebble Shore Drive. Section 2. Any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed. Section 3. This Ordinance shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. WITNESS my hand this the 14 th day of March, 2018. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA LEGAL RUN 3/14/2018
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B5 March 14, 2018
O Grows to hold OLC Student Market March 17 By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor
Students from the Opelika Learning Center will be able to display and sell samples of their work during the OLC Student Market this Saturday from 9 a.m. - noon at O Grows Community Garden. Through his nonprofit’s partnership with the OLC, O Grows Executive Director Dr. Sean Forbes said the program educates students facing behavioral or academic issues on the importance of hard work, creativity and community in a positive setting. “Some of the kids don’t necessarily enjoy working in the dirt, and so we started thinking about adding entrepreneurship as part of our program,”
Forbes said. “Outside of what it costs for materials, they’ll get to keep everything they make from this event. It’s good exposure for us because we work with the kiddos, but even more importantly, I think it will give them a positive experience and a real sense of their abilities.” Items for sale will include handcrafted wooden objects like birdhouses and monogrammed letters, as well as acrylic paintings. Several vendors from O Grows’ Farmer’s Market will also be in attendance at the event, selling spring produce and various fruit and vegetable jams/jellies. Admission to the event is free. For more information, like and follow O Grows on Facebook. The garden is located at 1103 Glenn St.
City looks to convert bus into mobile medical service to meet healthcare needs By Shawn Kirkpatrick For the Opelika Observer The goal is $200,000, and the city of Opelika is one step closer thanks to a $500 donation from Bishop Frank McLeod, pastor and founder of God’s House of Prayer Holiness Church. It’s all for a new mobile clinic that will promote good mental and physical health across the city. The goal for the mobile clinic is to manage and control healthcare issues like immunization, birth control, high blood pressure and diabetes, as well as help with mental issues and substance abuse.
“We want to talk about nutrition for folks - to eat healthy with vegetables and fruits versus a fast food diet,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller. “If we can get folks to think healthier - nutrition, the way they take care of the body God gave them. We want to see them live life more abundantly, physically and mentally.” The city teamed up with Mobile Studio, who brought in Auburn University and East Alabama Medical Center to be a part of the project. (Mobile Studio is a community-based group in Auburn that works with municipalities and public agencies to research and design solutions that better communi-
ties.) The bus will be staffed by EAMC and maintained by the City of Opelika. Tiger Transit donated the bus that will be converted into the clinic. “As far as the fundraising, we are working on several creative ways to do fundraising. We should know what those are in the next couple of months,” added Opelika Community Relation Officer Leigh Krehling. “We are also starting a GoFundMe page and sending out emails.” To donate now, send or handdeliver a check to the mayor’s office at city hall, and clarify on the check that the money goes to the mobile clinic. Shawn Kirkpatrick/Opelika Observer
All Stars, from B1
Browning said she is proud of the continued success of the Lady Bulldog basketball program, which has won six-straight area titles and made its first-ever appearance in the Final Four last season. “When I got the notification on my phone that I’d been selected for the all-star game, I told my grandma that, and she was so proud. She was smiling ear to ear,” Browning said. “This is a great feeling.” Abrea Green Height: 6 feet Position: Forward College: Uncommitted Green’s clutch threepoint play against
Hillcrest in the region championship game helped the Lady Bulldogs extend their lead to six with 2:06 remaining. The girls would win and move on to the Final Four in Birmingham. “I hope that we prove to future Opelika girls teams that it’s possible for an underdog to do the impossible, whether it’s a Final Four (or allstar game selection),” Green said. Jorden Heard Height: 6 feet 1 inch Position: Forward College: Uncommitted, receiving interest from Georgia Southwestern, Jacksonville State, Murray State, Tulane and West Florida A three-sport athlete, Heard said he will continue playing basketball at the collegiate level. A multi-year starter
for Coach John Wadsworth's basketball teams, Heard described himself as their motor and spiritual leader. “First off, I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity to play my last senior game in a uniform for a sport that a lot of people can’t have longevity in. It feels great knowing that I’ll be playing for the town and the community,” Heard said. “There are going to be a lot of people supporting us, and I’m thankful for that." Anita Payne Height: 5 feet 8 inches Position: Point guard College: Uncommitted, leaning toward Pensacola Junior College Payne reached 1,000 career points this season. Opelika Coach Devin Booth said
Payne was a key piece to her 2017-18 squad that finished with 23 wins. “(I was proud of) how hard we worked, and after bad games that we lost, how we never gave up,” Payne said. Austin Pitts Height: 5 feet 6 inches Position: Shooting guard
College: Uncommitted, receiving interest from Morehouse College, Alabama A&M, Albany State, Chattahoochee Valley Community College and an offer from Gulf Shores Prep Pitts was a key contributor in helping the boys rebound from a two-win season in 2016. Counted by many as the
team leader, he said he sees the game as both a chance for college scouts to see his talents shine and opportunity to represent his hometown. “For me, it’s really big. I’m lost for words, there’s really no other way to describe it,” Pitts said. “Every time I talk about it, I can’t help it, I just start smiling.”
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B6 March 14, 2018
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SUSCC Works to ‘Stop Leadership Lee County the Bleed’ on March 31 looks to cultivate leaders Special to the Opelika Observer The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) department of Southern Union State Community College (SUSCC) is doing its part to stop the leading cause of preventable traumatic death in the United States. Massive hemorrhage leads to more than 20 percent of preventable deaths each year. A person who is bleeding severely can die from blood loss in a matter of minutes. Being properly trained to administer aid when faced with such a trauma is the focus of the National Stop the Bleed Day on March 31. Stop the Bleed is intended to cultivate grassroots efforts that encourage bystanders to become equipped and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives. As part of the national movement, Southern Union EMS instructors and students will offer bleeding control classes free of charge every half hour beginning at 8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at the Health Sciences Building on SUSCC’s Opelika campus that day. Utilizing a portion of Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC), the course teaches how to immediately respond to traumatic situations such as car wrecks, home or work injury, or even mass shootings. “Once reserved for the battlefield, military medical techniques are becoming more widely taught to civilians so they are equipped to immediately respond in traumatic situations,” said SUSCC EMS Instructor Chris Downs. “People are not faced with an emergency by choice, but rather by chance.
Being prepared to react is vital.” Made possible by donations from ALFA and Air Methods, the class is open to the general public and is expected to last approximately 60 minutes. Registrants will become bleeding-control certified. Registration is encouraged, but walk-ins will be accommodated. For more information on bleeding control or to register for the class, contact Downs at 334-745-6437 (extension 5546) or visit bleedingcontrol.org and click “Find a Class.”
Submitted to the Opelika Observer
SUSCC EMS instructor Chris Downs demonstrates techniques used to control bleeding.
of tomorrow By Kendyl Hollingsworth For the Opelika Observer
Local nonprofit Leadership Lee County has been identifying, honoring, educating and challenging county leaders through seminars, service projects and oneof-a-kind experiences since the 1980s. The program, sponsored by the Auburn and Opelika Chambers of Commerce, is designed to help leaders hone in on their leadership skills and give them more opportunities to get involved in the community. Each class’s time in LLC runs from September to May. “Probably all of the class is involved in the community in some way, and that’s why they’re chosen, but [LLC] just gives them the opportunity for insight that other people do not get if they’re not in the class,” said Lenzie Lane, executive director of LLC. Applicants must either live or work in Lee County to be eligible for acceptance into the LLC class. Lane said all applicants must also be endorsed by their
employers to apply for the program. As executive director, Lane works with a board of directors to determine what each class’s year entails based on how the county is changing and developing. This includes arranging places for participants to visit and people for them to hear from one day each month. “I just fill the schedule full of fun leaders, interesting people around the community, places to go see—even the food ties into people that are [local] to help out, so I’m not reaching past the county lines to bring in something … we’re still supporting people that are here,” Lane said. Last Thursday, Lane organized a day of judicial experiences for LLC’s monthly session. The class was able to hear from the sheriff and chiefs of police for Auburn and Opelika, as well as the district attorney and some family court representatives. They also had the unique opportunity to visit a jail and have lunch there. Lane’s involvement with LLC began before she became executive director in spring 2016.
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A former participant herself, Lane said she and her husband gained valuable connections and knowledge about various ways to get involved in the community. “We had been here for about three years, and the amount of people that I met to network with and the caliber of other leaders that were in the class enabled me to have contacts for the rest of time because … we have an alumni group that helps out or that you can be in after you graduate, and so that provides the classmates with networking,” Lane explained. The biggest challenge Lane said she faces is trying to pick and choose which opportunities to fit into the LLC class’s schedule because “[Lee] County has so much to offer.” She noted the class’s visit to the Food Bank of East Alabama and subsequent volunteer experience as a great opportunity to learn how to plug into the community through various organizations. LLC is currently preparing for their first agricultural day, which will be April 19. Lane said this is one example of the board tweaking their yearly schedule to reflect growth and change in the area. “It’s changing, and it’s never set in stone year to year what all we will visit or what all we will provide our leaders with an opportunity to see or hear because we’re trying to get what’s the newest and greatest and the most important to know about in our community,” Lane said. Applications for the 2018-2019 class will be available online in May. For more information on the program and how to apply, visit leadershipleecounty.org.
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B7 March 14, 2018
Season review: the 2017-18 Opelika Lady Bulldogs By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Coming off a highlight-filled season that saw her team advance to the Final Four for the first time in school history, win its sixth-straight area title and a key senior reach the 1,000-point plateau, Opelika High School’s Devin Booth said she is excited for the future of the Lady Bulldog basketball
FOOD RATINGS Warehouse Bistro 105 C. Rocket Ave. Opelika Score: 100 Guthrie’s 3704 Pepperell Parkway Opelika Score: 99 Taco Mama 149 E. Magnolia Ave. Auburn Score: 98 Pieology 101 N. College St. Auburn Score: 98 Sonic Drive-In 322 North Dean Road Auburn Score: 98 The Steak Factory 1413 Frederick Road Opelika Score: 98
program. “Every year, I feel like we’ve gotten a little better. We’ve had some great kids come through the program, and our success says a lot about them and the work that they put in for us,” Booth said. “I also have a great staff (of assistant coaches) who have been together for two years now, and we all work great together.”
Heading into the 2017-18 season, Booth said she believed her senior-laden squad was a championship contender. In early season tournaments, Opelika faced several challenging opponents, including the Class 4A state runner-up Deshler Tigers of Tuscumbia and the Class 6A champion Hazel Green. The Lady Bulldogs
Recipes, from A10
entered 2018 with a 10-6 record, having lost four of their last five games. With 10 regular-season games left, Booth said she and her assistant coaches pressed the team to focus on finishing well. “We were up and down early. We’d play great in spurts for a short time, then we’d struggle,” Booth said. “But when we started playing area
games and getting closer to the playoffs, though, I saw a different look. They were playing as a team and showing great focus.” That focus paid off, as the girls won 9 of their last 12 games to finish the regular season with a 19-9 mark. From there, the girls would make a dandy run, defeating Pelham, Paul Bryant and Hillcrest before playing and eventually falling
to Ramsay in the Final Four, finishing with a 23-11 overall record. Looking to next season, Booth will be replacing five seniors: Alexis Browning, Abrea Green, Anasha Mitchell, 1,000-point career scorer Anita Payne and Cassidy Thomas, but will return key contributors like Quala Walton and Julia Claire Worth. See Season, page B8
Shepherd’s Pie Melanie Constance For the filling: 2 Tbsp. canola oil 1 cup onion, chopped 2 carrots, diced small 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 1/2 lb. ground lamb (substitute ground beef for a cottage pie) 1 tsp. kosher salt 1/2 tsp. fresh ground pepper
2 Tbsp. all purpose flour 2 tsp. tomato paste 1 cup beef broth 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 2 tsp. chopped rosemary 1 tsp. chopped thyme leaves 1/2 cup corn 1/2 cup English peas In a large saucepan, sauté onions and carrots in oil over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until onions are tender. Add garlic and cook another minute. Add lamb, salt and pepper and brown meat over medium high. Sprinkle meat with flour and stir to coat, cook another minute. Add tomato paste, broth,
Worcestershire and herbs; stir to combine. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to simmer until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes. Add corn and peas. Spread into an 11x13 dish. For the potatoes: 1 1/2 lb. russet potatoes 1/4 cup half and half 2 oz. unsalted butter 1/4 tsp. black pepper 1 egg yolk 8 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded Peel potatoes and dice into 1/2-inch cubes. Place in a medium saucepan and cover with cold water. Cook over high heat, cover and bring to
a boil. Once boiling, uncover, and decrease heat to maintain a simmer, cooking until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain potatoes and return to saucepan, cooking briefly while stirring to get rid of excess water. Warm half and half and butter. Mash potatoes and add remaining ingredients, except egg yolk, until smooth. Mix in egg yolk. Top meat mixture with potatoes, being careful to seal edges, and bake for 25 minutes. Top with cheese and broil until lightly browned. Cool 10 minutes before serving.
Brownie Freezer Soufflés with Irish Cream Sauce Ginelle Weissinger ¼ cup butter or margarine Two 3-oz. dark chocolate bars (Ghirardelli) 3 Tbsp. all purpose flour 1 cup chocolate milk ¼ tsp. salt 1 tsp. vanilla 4 eggs, separated ½ cup sugar ¼ tsp. cream of tartar Irish Cream Sauce, optional Butter bottom and sides of eight (6 oz.) ramekins. Sprinkle with sugar. Set aside. Melt butter and chocolate
in saucepan over medium-low heat; add flour, stirring until smooth. Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add chocolate milk; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened and bubbly. Stir in salt and vanilla. Beat egg yolks and ½ cup sugar with mixer until thick and pale (about 2 minutes). Gradually stir about ¼ of hot chocolate mixture into yolk mixture, beating at medium speed until blended. Gradually add remaining hot mixture, beating until blended. Let cool 5 minutes.
Beat egg whites and cream of tartar at high speed until stiff peaks form. Gently fold ¼ of beaten egg white into chocolate mixture. Gradually fold remaining egg white into mixture. Carefully spoon into prepared ramekins. Cover and freeze until firm. (Can go ahead and bake at 350 for 30 minutes and serve if you do not want to prepare ahead.) When ready to serve, remove soufflés from freezer; let stand 30 minutes. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until tops are puffed. Cut a slit in top of each soufflé, and serve
immediately with Irish Cream Sauce. Makes 8 servings. Irish Cream Sauce 1½ cups French vanilla ice cream 6 Tbsp. Irish cream liqueur (Bailey’s) 2/3 cup whipping cream, whipped Place ice cream in microwave-safe bowl; microwave at high 30 seconds or just until melted. Stir in Irish cream; fold in whipped cream. Makes 2½ cups.
Little Caesar’s 1515 Second Ave. Opelika Score: 97 Mike and Ed’s BBQ 307 N. College St. Auburn Score: 95
We are looking for highly motivated individuals who want to be part of a winning team. Sales Consultants daily responsibilities include prospecting (self generate), follow-up on company sales leads, presenting security products and services to businesses and homeowners, ensure proper contracts and continuous communication with sales management. We offer defined and established territories. Base salary plus an aggressive commission structure. Car allowance, company smart phone and IPad provided. Professional weekly training with dedicated sales trainer with one-on-one sales support. Excellent benefits including 401k, health/dental/vision/life insurance. Opportunity to qualify for 3 all expense paid trips a year. Job Requirements: Positive attitude and strong character. Strong prospecting (self generate) skills. Ability to run all set appointments. Adept at working referral business. great networking skills,, Alarm industry experience preferred but not require, Reliable transportation. ADS Security is a leader in the rapidly expanding home and commercial security industry. Our advanced solutions include Life Safety and several advanced services. This position is for the Auburn/Opelika branch location that is one of ADS 22 locations, the Auburn/Opelika location provides services in several counties the surrounding area. We provide security installation, service and monitoring through our own UL certified 5 diamond central station. You may submit your resume through the link shown below, email your resume to rgarrido@adssecurity. com or by mail to: ADS Security 1619 Thomason Dr. Opelika, AL 36801 (NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE).
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B8 March 14, 2018
Season, from B7
“The group that we have coming back is a headstrong group. They want to make sure that they accomplish all they can and check off some of the goals that we have for
our program year in and year out,” Booth said. Since coming to Opelika in fall 2009, Booth has compiled a 171-88 overall record and has never suffered a losing season. For more information or to keep up with the girls basketball program, visit www. opelikaathletics.com.
Opelika Miracle League receives check from Opelika Lions Club Submitted to the Opelika Observer Shown accepting a donation for the Opelika Miracle League at a recent Opelika Lions Club meeting are League Director Michele Dean, center, and Parent/Player Coordinator Kenny Buck (right). This year the league will consist of 16 teams, with opening day at the Westridge Complex on March 31st, at 10 a.m. Presenting the check on behalf of the Opelika Lions Club is Jim Allen, left.
Judge English addressed Opelika Rotary Club on Courthouse Annex
LCERA donates $200 toward Water Festival Special to the Opelika Observer Bill English, Lee County Judge of Probate, addressed the Opelika Rotary lunch group recently. Judge English gave an update on the status of the Courthouse Annex now under construction in downtown Opelika. It should be a beautiful and functional structure. English also commented on preparations for the upcoming primary and general elections. Pictured, from left, are: Jeff Clary, club member; English; and Harry Cullinan, club president.
Special to the Opelika Observer The Lee County Education Retirees Association recently voted to donate $200 to buy supplies for all 4th grade students of Lee County toward the annual Water Festival. With a focus on water conservation, the interactive event
SPRING TERM 2018 Classes begin April 2, 2018 Open Registration March 19th-29th
10 am to 2 pm at Sunny Slope 1031 South College Street, Auburn, Alabama
Spring Term Catalogs Available March 12th For details, visit the OLLI website at www.olliatauburn.org Call 334-844-3105 or 844-3102
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include informational sessions for the water cycle, aquifers and water filtration, which complements the fourth grade curriculum. Pictured, Lee County soil and Water Conservation District Administrator Coordinator Juanita Gardinski receiving the donation from LCERA member Gaines Whatley.
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pelika O Observer
B9 March 14, 2018
Matthew Jenkins shares life secrets from his new book “Positive Possibilities” Special to the Opelika Observer Matthew Jenkins, a veteranarian, nationally-renowned businessman and philanthropist, pulls back the curtain on his life with the recent release of his autobiography “Positive Possibilities: My Game Plan for Success.” The book gives readers an intimate glimpse into Jenkins’ life beginning with his time growing up on an Alabama farm with a single mom and nine siblings and into his journey of becoming a successful entrepreneur. Jenkins will present the first edition of “Positive Possibilities: My Game Plan for Success” at Tuskegee University’s 52nd Annual Veterinary Medical Symposium March 18-22 at the Renaissance Hotel in Montgomery, Alabama. A native of Alabama, Jenkins is a graduate of the Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine, a former member of the university’s Board of Trustees, and served as Tuskegee’s Interim President in 2013. Jenkins— who dedicated three years to writing “Positive Possibilities: My Game Plan for Suc-
cess” —provides engaging insight into life experiences that encouraged him on the road to his many accomplishments. Without a trace of bitterness or regret, Jenkins recounts in “Positive Possibilities: My Game Plan for Success” how he lost his father at the age of two and was one of 10 children growing up on the family farm where they grew white and sweet potatoes, corn and soybeans, and raised cattle and hogs. Jenkins’ mother, Amelia, taught her children the gospel of hard work, the importance of education and giving back to others. After earning his veterinary degree, Jenkins embarked on an extraordinary career in veterinary medicine, real estate development, philanthropy, and other enterprises. The perspectives Jenkins shares in his book demonstrate what it takes to achieve success in any industry, and how to shape a positive life from one’s natural abilities. “Positive Possibilities: My Game Plan for Success” is available at Amazon.com. For more information
about the book or to schedule an interview with Dr. Jenkins, email Martha Tucker at marthatucker1@ gmail.com. About the Author: Dr. Matthew Jenkins, DVM, is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, Air Force veteran, and so much more. After receiving his doctoral degree in veterinary medicine in 1957, Jenkins conducted research and later established a rabies eradication program in Greenland while serving in the U.S. Air Force. In the late 1970s, he decided to pursue other career interests and started several successful businesses, including a real estate and property management company. Dr. Jenkins and his wife established the Matthew and Roberta Jenkins Family Foundation in 1984, which provides schol-
arships for AfricanAmerican students. Finishing this book was his life’s dream. He hopes that the reader will be inspired to create their own game plan for success based on the strategies, principals and values written in his book. His wife, Roberta, is a fellow Tuskegee alum, and they are the proud parents of three children and six grandchildren.
LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS
LOST AND FOUND: Jewelry found near Belks on 3/2/2018. Call 912-8055999 to described item in order to recover your lost item.
ALASCAN
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HUGE 2-DAY PUBLIC AUCTION Huge Contractors Equipment & Truck Auction
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pelika O Observer
B10 March 14, 2018
OBITUARIES Sara Mayfield Harris Mrs. Sara Mayfield Harris of Opelika, AL passed away March 7, 2018 in Slidell, LA. Mrs. Harris was born to mother, Gladys E. Hillyer Mayfield and father, Lloyd Mayfield in Lee County, Alabama on August 14, 1953. Mrs. Sara Harris was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She graduated from Opelika High School and worked at West Point Pepperell for 29 years. She later became a substitute teacher for Opelika City Schools. She fought a hard and courageous battle and was thankful for each
Paul Thomas Lott Paul Thomas Lott, 47, of Opelika, passed away February 25, 2018. He was born on March 19, 1970 in LaGrange, Georgia to Freddie Bruce Lott and Sandra McLain. Paul had spent most of his Jane M. Shirah Jane M. Shirah of Opelika was born to the late Steve and Frances Huey McKee on July 26, 1955 and passed away at Midtown Medical Center on March 6, 2018. She was 62 years old.
day, and she knew each day was a blessing from her Heavenly Father. Mrs. Harris is preceded in death by her husband of nearly 36 years, Donald Ray Harris; her parents, Gladys E. Hillyer Mayfield and Lloyd Mayfield; and her brother, Charlie Mayfield (Anne). She is survived by her daughters: Mende Harris Hunter (Dr. Brad) of Opelika, AL and Ashley Harris Sanchez (Benny) of Slidell, LA; grandchildren: Nathan Hunter, Emsley Kate Hunter, Ben Sanchez III, Hudson Ray Sanchez and Ava Sanchez; her siblings: Marcus May-
field (Nancy) and Mary Phillips (James); and a host of nieces and nephews. A funeral service for Mrs. Harris was held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in the chapel at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 11, 2018. A visitation was held one hour prior to the funeral service beginning at 2:00 p.m. at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home. Pastor Tom Tippett officiated. Interment followed in Garden Hills Cemetery. Flowers are welcome as well as donations in honor of Sara Harris at cholangiocarcinoma. com. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.
Nancy Plant McLeod Nancy Plant McLeod of Opelika was born in Opelika, Alabama on January 13, 1941 and passed away peacefully in her home on March 6, 2018. She was 77 years old. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church. Mrs. McLeod graduated from Auburn University with a Masters Degree in Education Administration. After graduation Mrs. McLeod stayed home to raise her two children and taught at Hallie Turner Private School at night. In 1973 Mrs. McLeod returned to teaching full time at Scott Preparatory School, which later became Lee-Scott Academy. In 1987
Mrs. McLeod taught at Opelika Middle School for five years. In 1992 she returned to Lee-Scott Academy as the first elementary principal. In 2013, she was inducted into the Alabama Independent School Association Hall of Fame. She retired from Lee-Scott Academy in 2014. Mrs. McLeod was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. W.T. (Honey) Plant, Jr. of Opelika, Alabama. Mrs. McLeod was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, William (Bill) Marvin McLeod of Opelika and her parents Mr. and Mrs. W.T. (Honey) Plant, Jr. of Opelika, Alabama. Mrs. McLeod is sur-
vived by her son, David William McLeod (Denise); daughter, Molly McLeod Wilson (Greg); grandchildren, Matthew David McLeod, Hannah Aileen Wilson, Caroline Rose Wilson, Leah Elizabeth McLeod, and Dillon Thomas McLeod. Visitation was held in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home on Thursday, March 8, 2018 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Funeral services were held on Friday, March 9 in the Sanctuary at Trinity United Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m. and the Reverend Earl Ballard officiated. Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.
life in the Chambers and Lee county area. He served his country as a Sgt. In the United States Marine Corps for four years. He was a pipe welder for the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local Union out of Montgomery, AL. Paul was a great man, a
proud father and a loving husband. He loved his family, his union brothers and serving his country. Mr. Lott is survived by his wife, April Showers Lott of Opelika, Al.; two children: Kaitlin Lott and Andrew “Drew” Lott, both of
Opelika; mother, Mrs. Sandra (Bill) McLain of Auburn, AL; father, Bruce (Hilda) Lott; two brothers: Michael (Jacqueline) Lott of Lanett, AL and Taylor Lott of Auburn, AL; stepsister, Melinda (Kerry) Kirby of New Orleans, LA; step-brother, Joe
(Marlana) McLain of Birmingham, AL; and several nephews, nieces and cousins. A funeral service for Mr. Paul T. Lott was held on Thursday, March 1, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. A visitation was held the
evening prior to the funeral service at 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Burial followed the funeral service at Garden Hills Cemetery. Reverend Jimmy Ginn officiated. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.
She is survived by her husband, Royce R. Shirah, Sr.; daughter, Julie Stallions, Kathy Gravatt (Gabe); son, Chuck Stallions; step-daughter, Regina Hardin (Dana); step-son, Royce R. Shirah, Jr. (Tammy); 13 grandchildren; 5
great grandchildren, and sister Charlotte Griffin (Jerome). A memorial service was held Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel at FrederickDean Funeral Home. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.
Sandra Faye Johnson
ther, Earl Carroll, and brother, Buford Howard, Jr. She is survived by her husband of 25 years, Glen Frank Johnson; daughters, Amanda Burcham, Amy Hinkson; grandchildren, Justin Burcham, Daniel Burcham, and Misty Key; mother,
Sylvia Carroll; sister, Norma Jordan. A memorial service was held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home on Wednesday, March 7, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. Reverend Brad Reed officiated. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.
love for the church was her enjoyment of painting. She started taking art lessons in 1985 after retirement from West Point Pepperell, and quickly fell in love with it. Bettye’s 30-plus years of painting led to more than 100 pieces of art including local landmarks, flowers, wildlife and religious paintings. She spent the last few months of her life sharing her talent with her neighbors at Garden Green apartments, teaching art lessons. Over the years, she
also enjoyed playing bridge and expressing herself through poetry. She maintained an accomplished collection of poetry dating back to the early ‘40s, often reflecting on the wonders of life as well as the joy of motherhood. An artist, a Christian – a poet, a devoted friend. Ms. Bettye, as everyone knew her, never met a stranger and she will be deeply missed by her friends and family. A service honoring her memory will be held at the First United Methodist Church on Saturday, March 17th, 2018 at Noon (EST), 11:00am (CST). The service will immediately be followed by a reception at the church and a viewing of all her paintings in the Fellowship Hall. We encourage all service attendees to dress colorfully for this celebration of the life of a very colorful woman. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to the First United Methodist Church of Lanett, AL.
Sandra Faye Johnson of Opelika was born in Columbus, Georgia on September 22, 1952 and passed away at EAMC on March 5, 2018. She was 65 years old. She was preceded in death by her fa-
Bettye Johnson Bowers
MARCH 22–25 MOBILE, ALABAMA P R O V I D E N C E H O S P I TA L C A M P U S
F E S T I VA LO F F LOW E R S .CO M
Bettye Johnson Bowers, 93, passed away on Wednesday, March 7th , after a brief illness. She is preceded in death by her late husband of over 50 years, Otis “Bootsie” Bowers as well as her cherished daughter, Patsy Bowers Pilkington. She is survived by her grand-daughters, Kelli Pilkington (Carolyn) of Hickory Ridge, AR and Kristi Pilkington White (Patrick) as well as two great-grandchildren, Addison and Grady White of Evergreen, CO. Ms. Bowers was born on April 2, 1924 in Parish, Ala. to the late Minnie Kilgore Johnson and R. T. Johnson and attended the University of Ala-
bama. Ms. Bowers was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church in Lanett, Alabama. She enjoyed preparing Sunday School lessons, attending pot-luck dinners and various game nights with her many friends at the church. Second only to her
To place an obituary please email us at: editor@opelikaobserver.com or call us at: 334•749•8003
pelika O Observer
B11 March 14, 2018
COMICS
A well-balanced person is one who finds both sides of an issue laughable. — Herbert Procknow
B12 March 14, 2018
pelika O E ntertainment
Last week’s answers:
3-7 SCRAMBLER ANSWERS: 1), Delude 2), Suspect 3), Source 4), Drone Solution: Conductor