Opelika Observer 7-24-19 E-Edition

pelika Observer O

Vol. 11, No. 42

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

Opelika, Alabama

THE BOTTLING PLANT EVENT CENTER PRESENTS

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“By local people, for local people.”

Ristretto Lounge will be a place for coffee drinkers to relax, and for creators to hone their craft Shop projected to open by the end of August

By Morgan Bryce Editor Instead of the traditional grab-and-go style method currently implemented in most of America's coffee-shop chains, Johan Jo of Ristretto Lounge wants to create a place where everyday tensions are eased and creativity is allowed to flow.

"Ristretto is typically half of what a regular espresso would normally be - the same amount of coffee but it's a shorter extraction time and in my opinion, it's the sweetest part of an espresso.

Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer

And that's what I want this place to be, a sweet experience for every-

one who comes in," Jo said.

Construction is near-

‘LoveULoveU’ returns to Opelika this Saturday

ing completion on the two-story structure that will house Ristretto, located behind the Tiger Square Shopping Center in Opelika at 2650 Corporate Drive.

Adorned with a coppercolored roof, Jo said the lounge's massive double-door entrance, three brightly polished wooden columns and vaulted ceiling are part of his plans to defy and exceed customer's expectations.

"I want people to be in awe by it. By the looks of it inside and outside, you wouldn't expect it to be a coffee See Ristretto, page A5

By Ann Cipperly Opelika Observer

The fourth annual “LoveULoveU Day” will be held at Opelika's Bandy Park July 27 from 4 to 7 p.m.

Organized by the Mobile-based LoveULoveU foundation, there will be similar events held in Birmingham and Mobile that provides a chance for “people across (Alabama) to join together and focus on the love that binds us despite all our differences. We will simply gather in parks to unify in prayer that honors God, declares a unifying love, listen to music, eat, chat and dance.”

Admission to LoveULoveU is free. There will be giveaways of school

Located at the site of the old Clement Hotel on 9th Street in downtown Opelika, the Museum of East Alabama will celebrate its 30th anniversary Aug. 20 from 4 to 6 p.m. The public is invited to the anniversary celebration. Homemade goodies, ice cream and Toomers’ lemonade will be served.

The museum was founded by Eleanor and John T. Harris, who were determined and worked tirelessly for Opelika to have a museum to preserve the history of Lee and surrounding counties.

John T. grew up on his ancestral family farm in Cusseta. After graduating

2017 interview with the Observer. “I want people to come out and experience a sense of unity in our community.”

For more information, visit www.loveulove.org.

The park is located at 300 Jeter Ave. Editor's Note: The original story contained the wrong location and time for this event. We regret the error and any confusion or problems it may have caused.

Index

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

By Morgan Bryce Editor

Lee County Literacy Coalition (LCLC), an organization dedicated to helping individuals receive the basic skills they

Aug. 15 will mark the 16th annual “Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee” organized by the

See Spelling, page A2

Opelika’s Museum of East Alabama to celebrate 30th anniversary Aug. 20

By Morgan Bryce Editor

supplies, food, health screenings, live music and cash prize of $1,000 given to the group with the largest attendance.

“The premise of the event is loving on one another, at least one day of the year. It doesn’t have to be your immediate family like we do on Christmas and Thanksgiving, but the people who live in your community,” said event organizer Raven Harvis in a

LCLC’s 'Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee' returns Aug. 15

SPORTS..................................B1 POLITICS.....................................B7 LEGALS.......................................B11 ENTERTAINMENT........................B14

Photo by Ann Cipperly The Museum of East Alabama will celebrate its 30th anniversary Aug. 20 from 4 to 6 p.m. The public is invited to the anniversary celebration. Homemade goodies, ice cream and Toomers’ lemonade will be served. Board members preparing for the event include, from left, Sally Melson Phillips, Jean Meadows Heath, Ginger Stern and Deborah Price Williams. All of these members mothers and/or fathers volunteered in the museum’s early years

from Auburn University, he went to New York City and was working on Wall Street for Western Union when he met

Eleanor.

Born in McCook, Nebraska, Eleanor had graduated from a local See Museum, page A3

pelika O Observer.com

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pelika O Observer

A2 July 24, 2019

Beauregard Volunteer Fire Chief Mike Holden named ‘Firefighter of the Year’

Santa Claus makes a stop in Opelika for ice cream last week

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Last weekend, Beauregard Volunteer Fire Chief Mike Holden was named the “Firefighter of the Year” and the entire department also received the first-ever “Department of the Year Award” from the Alabama Association of Volunteer Fire Departments.

Spelling

from A1

need to succeed in life.

Held at the Auburn University Alumni Center, the spelling bee’s format derives influence from the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Teams from local businesses and organizations will go head-to-head to determine the area’s best speller.

Opelika Chamber of Commerce President Pam Powers-Smith returns as emcee for the spelling bee and judges will include Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones, new Opelika Main Street Director Ken Ward and Chambers County CASA Program Coordinator Beth Johnson.

Jordan-Hare Stadium Announcer Ric Smith

will fill in for the late Rod Bramblett as the chief word pronouncer.

“I’d say the purpose for this event is three-fold: to raise awareness, a funfilled evening and chance for people to give. This is an event that we look forward to every year,” said new LCLC Executive Director Patricia Butts.

Jim ‘N Nick’s will provide heavy hors d'oeuvres and door prizes will be given away throughout the evening. Butts added that there will also be a tribute to Bramblett, who along with his wife Paula passed away on May 25 as a result of a tragic automobile accident.

After undergoing some major administrative changes earlier this year, Butts explained that her organization’s new slogan is “always

improving” - a reference to both its services and efforts to create brighter futures for the citizens of Lee County.

“We are having to adapt to today’s technology and use it to help us in our mission, and we are always striving to make sure that we reach out to more learners and tutors. We want to educate folks about literacy and take away some of the stigma for the learner as they go through the programs we offer,” Butts said.

Team slots are mostly filled, but individual tickets are still available for $40 each. They can be purchased by calling 334-705-0001 or online through www.leecountyliteracy.org. The venue is located at 317 S. College St. in downtown Auburn.

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pelika Observer

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

O

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

CORRECTIONS

Photos special to the Opelika Observer Santa Claus visited Opelika last week and stopped in to O Town for a ‘Cannon Cane’ Ice Cream Cone and to visit with local children.

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pelika O Observer

A3 July 24, 2019

REACH program seeks to improve the lives of individuals living with dementia in Auburn-Opelika area

By Morgan Bryce Editor Helping individuals living with dementia continue to find their purpose in life, as well as supporting their carepartners are two primary goals of REACH, a community respite ministry housed at Auburn United Methodist Church.

Established in summer 2016, REACH is a program supported by local churches and Auburn University's nursing and social work programs. REACH cofounder Gerald Johnson said that the program has thrived under Executive Director Christine Browdy's leadership, who has helped expand its overall program availability, participa-

tion, support group and volunteer assistance.

"We all have a purpose and we all want to know what that purpose is. Just because somebody diagnosed with dementia does not mean that that purpose goes away," Browdy said.

"Part of the reason why we do what we do at REACH is to help them continue to build on that purpose."

Johnson said the idea behind starting REACH sprouted from his experience as a carepartner (non-professional caregiver) for his wife Nadine, who was diagnosed with dementia in 2012. Frequent trips back-and-forth to a similar respite care in Montgomery proved to be effective, as Nadine received "physical and

mental exercise and socialization" which most medical experts agree is the best way to combat the disease's progress. Others shared in Johnson's struggle and agreed that the AuburnOpelika area needed a similar program.

Originally meeting once a month, REACH members started meeting more frequently to accommodate the program's growth and hired Browdy in December 2017 to help coordinate and lead those efforts.

Since her teenage years, Browdy has focused on a career working with the elderly, particularly dementia patients. Finishing her education with degrees in health administration and counseling, Browdy has worked with the

senior population during her entire career, including several years with the Lee-Russell Council of Government's Area Agency on Aging before joining the REACH program.

Currently, REACH offers two weekly classes for its program participants on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Browdy, along with Johnson, Program Volunteer Blanche McElfresh and others, work closely in creating programs that offer both fun and proper mental and physical stimulation to participants.

A typical day will consist of art or painting time, board and spelling games, food and fellowship and sing-alongs to songs that are near

and dear to participant's hearts.

"When the day is over and we tell a carepartner or a loved one what a participant did in class that day, they'll often say, 'Wow, they could do that?' That brings such a sense of joy to us volunteers because they may go home and try to do things that they didn't think they could do," McElfresh said.

"When I describe those times together to people outside of the REACH program, I always lead by using the word 'fun.' It's hilarious and wonderful to see them enjoying themselves during the day," Johnson added. "They just engage in everything and enjoy living in the moment."

The program is open

to anyone living with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia. Participants are required to be able to feed themselves, use the restroom on their own and function in social situations.

The cost is $30 per session, but scholarships are available for those with financial needs.

On the first day of attending the program, loved ones or carepartners are required to accompany participants.

Browdy said she carefully observes participants to help find the perfect volunteer match, many of whom come from all walks of life.

For the duration of a participant's time in the program, their assigned volunteer will work and See REACH, page A5

Photos special to the Opelika Observer

Museum

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college at age 18, and was attending Juilliard School in New York City. She had a love of music from an early age, playing the piano at age four and the violin at 11.

She graduated with a degree in music education from Julliard and a master’s degree from Columbia University with a minor in history.

John T. and Eleanor met at a party when she had a date with his roommate. When she started dating John T., Eleanor began writing her parents every day about him.

John T. talked Eleanor into visiting his family in Opelika. She received a blessing from her family to “go check him out.”

After a small wedding in Auburn during the Great Depression, they returned to New York.

When Eleanor was expecting their first child, John T. knew he did not want to raise his family in the city. They lived in several places before deciding to return to the farm in Opelika. John T. worked the farm himself, while Eleanor took care of their three sons.

When her father died, her mother was not able to run the family business and a ranch. They moved back to McCook for John T. to run the family department store.

They traveled back to the farm for summers

and Christmas. Eleanor had three more boys, growing their family to six sons.

While Eleanor was raising six sons, she was also working in preservation and the arts. In McCook, she started a historical society, founded the High Plains Museum and a community orchestra. She played the violin in the orchestra.

With her dedication to the arts, she was named to a five-state Midwest arts alliance.

When John T. retired, they moved to the farm in Opelika, but they did not retire from community service. John T. said since Eleanor started a museum in her hometown that he would open one in his beloved hometown.

John T. was 80, and Eleanor was 77 when they took on the project. While it took a few years of planning, John T. refused to give up on a museum to preserve important items of the past. He felt too much had already been lost because there was no place to collect and preserve artifacts.

The Harris’ contacted Opelika Chamber of Commerce Director Henry Stern. An organizational meeting was held at the old chamber building and meetings continued for a year.

When plans for the museum weren’t moving quickly enough for John T., he asked the board to let him be a benevolent dictator for three years, and there would be a

museum. A man of his word, the Museum of East Alabama became a reality.

After exploring two or three locations, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Story Sr. offered their empty building on 9th Street, a former hardware store.

John T. arranged to have the building rent-free for three years with an option to buy at the end of the three years.

Hardware display racks were removed.

Dick Moreman selected paint to cover the bright orange walls of the former store. Smith T Building Supply, Home Fashion Center and Bi-City Décor donated paint and supplies. John T. arranged for prisoners to paint the interior.

The first donations were a desk and two chairs by Jimmy Collins.

At the end of June 1989, the museum board and local officials met at the refurbished building.

“We are very happy for this day,” John T. said. “We have been looking forward to having a home for the Museum of East Alabama. Our purpose is to preserve and display the items of historical value to this area.”

He believed if Opelika had a museum earlier, many items of historical value would have been saved.

The museum began accepting items on July 10, 1989. John T. continued working to gather support and solicit contributions.

Volunteers were

instrumental from the beginning. Doris Cannon and Ann Price were in charge of accepting items. Anna Asbury arranged the displays.

Memorabilia began coming in from John T. Herbert Orr, Billy Hitchcock, Bo Torbert, former governors and local banks. A piano originally owned by General Bullard of Oak Bowery was donated. Items were recorded in a ledger.

In a short time, objects from industry and agriculture began filling shelves. The Harris’ donated a buggy and many farm tools.

The museum officially opened Aug. 10, 1989.

Volunteers kept the museum operating until funds were available to hire a director.

At the first anniversary party on Aug. 5, 1990, the more than 100 volunteers were honored. City officials attended and John T. read a letter from Gov. Guy Hunt commending the museum for its successful first year.

Eleanor wrote about the first anniversary in her newspaper column, “What’s New With The Old.” “As usual, the community responded,” she wrote. “David Rogers of Food World Bakery provided a beautiful birthday cake. Madeline Voit of the catering service, Surprise Creations, made lemonade and roasted some delicious peanuts.

“Charlie Trammell of TCBY furnished yogurt cups. Members of the board presided over the

birthday table.

“It was interesting to me to see how diverse the ages of our visitors were. Quite a few children, senior citizens and all those in between seemed to find something that caught their attention. That is our aim- something for everyone.”

As the museum celebrated its first anniversary, it was near capacity. John T. asked Yetta Samford and his sister to donate the building next door. City workers cut an opening between the two buildings and built a ramp to the second building, which is called the annex. That space also filled up.

When the museum celebrated its 20th anniversary, Director Glenn Buxton was working with the Auburn University School of Design for plans to methodically arrange the artifacts. The museum was remodeled with new flooring, and displays were arranged for easier viewing.

After John T. passed away, Eleanor continued her involvement with the museum, attending board meetings and opening the meetings with prayer. Although she was nearly blind, the gracious lady continued to attend special events at the museum until she passed away on her 102nd birthday.

On the 30th milestone anniversary, the Harris’ son Bert Harris reflected, “The museum truly owes its existence to so many wonderful people

who have been willing to donate their family treasures, their time and money to make the museum a success.

“We invite everyone to come and celebrate this wonderful occasion with us. We hope that the next 30 years will be equally successful. The museum has truly been a blessing for the people of this area and has helped keep our heritage intact.

“In addition, it has been visited by people from all over the country and indeed all over the world,” Bert added.

“Each visitor now has a better appreciation and understanding of the history of this wonderful place.”

The Harris’ determination and efforts preserved a portion of the past for future generations to see and understand the history of East Alabama. The community is invited to be a member of the museum and become part of helping to preserve the past.

Seven years ago, the museum began its popular annual fundraiser, “Taste of the Town,” which is held on the third Tuesday in April.

The event features small plates from local restaurants and beverages from wineries, breweries and distilleries, as well as a silent auction. The event is a sell-out every year.

The Museum of East Alabama is located at 121 S. 9th St. The museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 2 to 4 p.m.

pelika O Opinion

A4 July 24, 2019

Keep going - Keep Growing Homegrown Tomatoes “Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows. It’s what the sunflowers do.”

– Helen Keller his spring I planted sunflower seeds. I have been anxiously awaiting their arrival as they are such a happy flower. I was inspired by George’s Farmers Market to grow my own this year, since frolicking in their sunflower field last year brought me so much joy. I never really gave too much thought as to why I like these tall and stalky flowers so much, aside from the fact that they are just so vividly fun and whimsical.

We had a late start on our garden this year because of the typical unpredictable Alabama weather and a baby who decided to arrive sooner than we planned. God’s timing is always perfect.

Jody and I planted some vegetables in our main garden but my personal/main focus this year was flowers. I planted flowering herbs, a variety of roses, confederate jasmine and my all-time favorite, sunflowers.

I absolutely adore sunflowers. I started them as seeds and have been watching them every day since they poked their tiny, little green heads through the black soil. I

T

By Lucy Fuller

excitedly watched them sprout into seedlings, and when they were old enough to place into the garden, I did so with enormous care. I planted them in several locations around our home so that we will be able to enjoy them as they bloom.

We have had some storms visit us lately due to the inclement weather in the gulf. Hurricane season is a doozy. We had several days and weeks of extremely hard rain and some gusty wind.

We are blessed that no major damage occurred as a result of the weather, but unfortunately, it affected our gardens. Some plants survived and some struggled.

The heavy rainfall inhibited the growth of several of plants which have since recovered, thankfully. Some had been knocked over and stems broken. I tried so hard to prop them up gently by strategically placing stakes and ropes for which they could lean

on. This added support seemed to help them thrive.

My happy little baby sunflowers seemed to withstand the storm’s damage and continue their steady growth.

Then, they came again— this time stronger and heavier. The rain pounded my already healing sunflowers to the ground.

Heartbroken, I was sure they were not going to make it this time around.

Again, I handled them with care and precision as I propped them back up and tried to tenderly nurse them back to health. I was sure they were goners.

As I ventured out to my garden over the next several days I was expecting to find the flower stalks keeled over and dried up from the sun. To my surprise, they were still there. They were greener than ever, growing crooked and bent, but their little sleeping faces pointed directly to the sun. I was so impressed by their tenacity and willingness to survive.

These are tough flowers. I like them even more now than I did before I decided to grow them. I look at every experience as an opportunity to learn something new. I was See Fuller, page A6

I

found a brown paper bag full of tomatoes on my doorstep, along with homemade tomato chutney. I don’t know where the stuff came from, but the tomatoes were homegrown.

If there is a pleasure more marvelous than homegrown tomatoes, it’s probably illegal.

And I don’t want to know about it since I come from Baptists who don’t do illegal things because it could lead to secular music.

But I was reared on homegrown tomatoes. And there will be tomatoes at my funeral. I’m serious.

Funeral guests will be encouraged to place tomato products into my casket.

Any tomato product will do, as long as it’s not tomato aspic.

I would rather have a colonoscopy in a thirdworld country than eat tomato aspic.

When I was a kid, there was a woman in our church named Lida Ann who always made tomato aspic.

She peppered her aspic with mature green olives, capers, and little gray canned shrimp.

She placed her dish on the buffet table and it looked like a giant, R-

By Sean Dietrich

rated donut.

My mother would force me to eat it because, “Lida Ann is a sweet old woman, and she went to all that trouble.”

“I don’t care if she’s Twenty-Mule-Team Borax,” I would say, “I don’t wanna eat it.”

Then my mother would pinch me until I cried. So I would shuffle toward the potluck line, use a butter knife, and smear the tomato-flavored hell onto a cracker.

Miss Lida Ann would kiss my cheek and say, “Why don’t you take the rest home, since you’re the only one eating it.”

Miss Lida Ann would wrap it in aluminum foil and send it with me. And for the rest of the week, my mother would leave it on the counter. The stuff was so bad that all the flies pitched in to get the screen door fixed.

My mother was an avid tomato gardener.

People would come from miles around to buy her delicacies.

She’d place tomatoes on a fold-up table at the end of our driveway and sell them using the honor system.

But the system was broken.

Sometimes my mother’s tomatoes would mysteriously disappear.

She would use guilt to make me confess, but I would deny allegations and remind her that there were a lot of starving people in the world.

When my wife and I first got married, we used to drive the Highway 127 Yard Sale (also known as “The World’s Longest Yardsale”) in search of tomatoes.

Actually, we went for two reasons.

Firstly: because it was cheap fun for newlyweds who were so poor that our cat got nervous every year at Thanksgiving.

And secondly: homegrown tomatoes.

Along the seven-hundred-mile route were farmers selling buckets of tomatoes. And I mean the hard stuff like my mother once grew.

There were Early See Dietrich, page A5

Answered prayers build our faith

I

had a wonderful principal who encouraged teachers at the beginning of each new school year as we met the challenges of our classroom. He would ask the teachers to reflect back on answered prayers in our lives.

He referred to answered prayer and blessings as “a stockpile of evidence” that God is faithful. I have tried to keep a journal of answered prayers not only personally, but for my classroom

Y

ou remember a couple of years ago when they busted Miss Cleo?

She was the Jamaican psychic whose “hotline” offered free “supernatural insight into love and money.”

Well, according to authorities, Miss Cleo (who was really Youree Dell Harris of Los Angeles) used the old "bait and switch" on folks who called in. She came on the line and told them to phone another number which, it turned out, charged them about $5 a minute.

Now, I figure that many of Miss Cleo’s callers were Southerners.

Not only do we Southerners talk a lot (ask us the time of day and we tell you how to make a watch), we have

students needs as well. After 34 years of teaching, God has truly blessed my heart and my life in seeing so many students who I have prayed for grow up, working hard and outreaching to the community with their gifts, talents and love.

It was God who did this in their lives. We parents, grandparents, teachers and caregivers are humbled when God gives us the assignment of prayer.

Answered prayers are truly hope and

By Beth Pinyerd

faith builders when we reflect back on times in our lives which were truly difficult. When we have had a loss of health, whether it be physical or mental, answered prayers in small

steps encourage us and increase our faith. So many times we have received answered prayers in miraculous ways and we overflow with thanksgiving.

Like the Israelites after witnessing so many miracles on their escape from Egypt began to complain to Moses after wandering in the desert, we too may forget what God has recently delivered us from. Reflections of past answered prayers and blessings can help us ward off doubt and

fear.

Personally, I love to read my prayer journal of years ago to see how God answered prayers.

Sharing answered prayers with your children is a good model and faith builder. When facing personal challenges, think back upon the joy you received when your prayers were answered. We draw strength from past answered prayers.

As I share with children, God’s telephone line is never too busy, He doesn’t delete our

Southern by the Signs

a history of trying to hook up with the supernatural.

Many among us regularly consult the astrological section of an almanac and schedule everything from planting to procreating according to the alignment of heavenly bodies.

Others consult folks like Henry Baysmore.

Back in the 1930s, the 75-year-old Baysmore was interviewed at his Montgomery home. He told how he "started out to be a preacher once" and seemed on the road to success until he found that the Bible said that ministers should keep themselves "unspotted from the world." He was okay with that until he found that the Good Book also said ministers should

By Hardy Jackson

"visit the widows." That presented a problem for, he observed, if "you have ever been acquainted with any widows, you know a preacher can't visit them and keep himself unspotted." And so, he told his visitor, "I give up preachin'."

What did he do then?

He became Montgomery's Miss Cleo.

Those were Depression years and people were uneasy. So Baysmore had plenty of visitors who "wanted to see into the future."

Such advice did not

come cheap, $10 a session, but if they protested he simply told them, "if you can't afford $10 for a little supernatural information” then they would suffer the consequences.

So they paid up.

Though Baysmore gave up preaching to become a psychic, not long ago, riding through Wilcox County, I saw a sign announcing that "Dr. Black" the "Holy Profet of God" had discovered a way to combine the two.

Apparently ignoring the problem with widows, “Dr. Black” found scriptural foundation for his calling in First Samuel where Saul tries to figure out how to pay a seer for helping him recover some runaway asses.

So Baysmore opened

the "House of Prayer and Faith," where religion and folklore were bundled together for believers. Anyone who is "crossed up," "troubled," or suffering from what he called, with a fine feeling for words, "Lost Nature," should take him on as their "Spiritual Reader and Advisor."

I bet business was brisk.

We all know that since forever, a sizable segment of the South's population has believed that greater forces are at work in the world and that there are special people who can understand them. Sometimes the gifted are found in churches that focus on Biblical prophecy and mystical communications like speaking in tongues. Other times

email or text and he truly leans in to hear our prayers. When I have worked with seniors, we discuss that the greatest ministry and mission outreach assignment is to pray and intercede for others. Memories of how, when, where and why our prayers were answered give us hope and encouragement to live our lives to serve others and to praise God for all he has done.

As 1 Thessalonians 5:17 says, “Pray without ceasing.”

these spiritual advisors are found outside any religious congregation, out on the fringes of society.

But remember, historically, it is on the fringes of society that so many Southerners have lived. And those Southerners, in trying to deal with troubling questions, have turned to the Bible, the almanac, preachers, teachers and people like Baysmore and Black.

Unsteady and unsure in an unsteady and unsure world, Southerners have tried to cover all bases. They always have. They always will.

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

pelika O Observer

NERDtorch Cafe launches fundraiser to upgrade equipment, relocate to new facility in the coming months

By Morgan Bryce Editor Nigel Mongerie of Opelika's NERDtorch Cafe has launched a fundraiser to help cover the cost of upgrading his equipment and relocating his business into a new facility.

There are four new backpack and T-shirt designs that patrons

REACH

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be with them one-onone during sessions.

Another crucial component of REACH is its aforementioned support group, which meets monthly and allows members to learn and share in each other's experiences.

"A caregiver is an educated, trained person whereas a carepartner is someone who isn't trained and needs continuing education as they take care of their loved one. It's a time to learn but it's also a time

can purchase, each bearing the business's logo with on top of a swirled tie-dyed design. Individually, T-shirts are $27 each and backpacks cost $40 each. Matching sets can be purchased for $65.

Started at Collaboration Station in downtown, the business relocated across

the street to 225 S. 8th St. in August 2017 where it has been operated since. Mongerie did not disclose where the business's future home will be but said he is looking at several possible locations.

For more information or to participate in the fundraiser, visit www.indietorch.net.

to talk to each other and it's truly incredible to hear some of the stories," Johnson said.

While dementia and its other forms are currently irreversible, Browdy said that they have been told many success stories about their participants and that many of the disease's side effects have been reduced or muted as a result of activities they have enjoyed through REACH. "I've heard from people that it helps them sleep better, because they're tired at the end of the day. Also, they tend to be better at articulating their thoughts,"

Browdy said. "However, it does tend to vary from person to person, but it's always best if it's caught and treated early. We can't backtrack and regain what was lost, but a program like this, when attended regularly, helps slow down the disease and its progression."

For more information or to schedule a meeting with Browdy, call 334-826-8800, ext.

252 or send email to christineb@aumc.net.

Photos and videos from REACH sessions can be found on its Facebook page, "REACH Community Respite Ministry." The church is located at 137 S. Gay St.

Ristretto

from A1

shop," Jo said. "Instead of the label of a coffee shop, I really want it to be a 'coffee hub' for everybody ... and that goes with the architecture, atmosphere, customer service, experience and product that we want to provide here."

Born in South Korea, Jo and his family moved to Canada for his father's career when he was seven years old. After four or five years there, they relocated to the Auburn-Opelika area so his father could help start Daewon America, Inc., a successful automotive parts manufacturer.

Upon moving to the area, Jo was enrolled at Lee-Scott Academy, where stayed and ultimated graduated in winter 2012. He is nearing completion of his business degree from Auburn University.

Jo reminisced that owning and operating his own coffee shop began as a teenager on a trip to visit family in South Korea, helping operating espresso machines at his aunt's barista school. Last year, he returned to his homeland for a little more than two months to learn more about the ins and outs of the coffee business from his aunt and enjoy the little time he had left with his dying grandmother.

"My aunt really nailed me on every single thing. (At the school) there's a barista course program that usually takes nine months for students to complete,

Dietrich,

from A4

Photos special to the Opelika Observer

Girls, Better Boys, Beefsteaks, Cherokee Purples, Superstars, Brandywines, Mortgage Lifters, Bama Lama Ding-Dongs, Baby Makers, Marriage Wreckers, and all kinds of heirlooms.

We would eat them like apples. And sometimes, we would fix tomato sandwiches with Sunbeam bread, Duke’s mayonnaise, and tomato slices that were bigger than a grown man’s foot.

And when we finished eating, we had to change our clothes.

I tried growing tomatoes one year. I ordered special buckets from a mail-order catalog. The buckets had holes in the bottoms. You were supposed to hang them from hooks and let the tomato stalks grow downward, but it was a joke.

I’m sure the buckets work fine for some,

A5 July 24, 2019 and I did it in two," Jo said. "I was up by 4 every morning, getting on the train at 5 o'clock, then rushing to another hour-long train ride to get there.

As soon as I arrived, I would get my apron on, getting everything ready and dialed in."

Jo would stay for the rest of the day, working until midnight most nights and taking the last train home, a routine that consumed the majority of his two-month visit to the country.

That training, however, would prove to be an invaluable eperience in his journey to opening Ristretto.

With help from his father last summer, Jo secured the lot that will house Ristretto and its parent company, WhiteWave LLC, and construction began last August.

Projected to open by the end of this August, Jo said he has spent the last year fine-tuning his concepts and plans for the shop.

At Ristretto's center will be a 25-foot-long bar on the ground floor, which will feature seating on either side and an area on one end for customers to interact with their baristas and learn more about the coffee that is being prepared for them. There will be also be a conference room equipped with a whiteboard and television for groups to rent out for presentations or studying.

Other seating will be included on the ground floor along with a covered patio surrounded by bushes and trees to block noise and "create a nice, pleasant atmosphere,” according to Jo. Behind the building is a large, open area

that Jo said that he and his father want to turn into a garden and walking path.

The fruits, herbs and spices raised on the property will be play a prominent role in the baked goods that Ristretto will sell. Jo said that these recipes will combine the simplistic French baking approach and often flourless items found in Japanese baking to create healthier items that will pair strikingly well with the coffee they serve.

Chicago's Intelligentsia Coffee and Tea will serve as Ristretto's main provider, a company the prides itself on its "commitment to sourcing, developing, roasting and distributing the world’s finest coffees" according to a post on its website.

Another important part of Ristretto's mission is to allow people with artistic or creative talents to hone and perfect their craft within the lounge's confines.

"When people who have those types of minds come in here, I want them to say wow and immediately start picturing things that they want to do, not for the shop but with their creative minds. We want it to be a space where they can collaborate and do something great in this community," Jo said.

Ristretto's projected hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 10 or 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday/Sunday and later during finals week for Auburn University and Southern Union students.

For more information or updates on the shop's opening call/ email.

but the squirrels ate my tomatoes. So one summer, I had to resort to a life of crime.

Every morning, I would drive to my in-laws’ house. My father-in-law had a tomato garden that he slaved over.

Before sunrise, I would roll into his driveway with my headlights turned off. I would park, make sure the coast was clear, steal a whole bag full of tomatoes, and head for Mexico. My father-in-law never caught me.

He was a great guy.

He used to make the best tomato chutney you ever had. I’m not sure what was in it, but I could polish off three or four jars in one sitting.

On one Fourth of July—I’ll never forget this—my father-inlaw gave me several Mason jars of chutney and a five-gallon bucket of tomatoes.

He said, “I thought you deserved your own batch of chutney, since you like it so

much.”

I almost cried. His gift meant so much to me. Because when someone gives you a tomato, they aren’t just giving you a tomato. They’re giving you something much more. At least that’s how I see it.

Words will be forgotten. Friends will come and go. Civilizations will turn to dust. Heaven and earth will pass away. But a brown paper sack of homegrown tomatoes will last for a thousand tomorrows, and then some. Because a tomato is tangible proof that God loves us.

And tomato aspic is proof that hell is real.

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

pelika O Opinion

A6 July 24, 2019

Extension office notes: information on heat-related illnesses, venomous snakes

By Katie Nichols and Justin Miller Alabama residents are no strangers to hot summer weather.

Heat Safety Heat safety is a very important aspect of Alabama summers. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System offers tips to ensure safety during a prolonged heat event.

Individuals should begin by listening to local weather forecasts to determine if there are upcoming changes in temperature.

Be aware of both temperature and the heat index. The heat index is the temperature the body feels when the effects of heat and humidity are combined. Exposure to direct sunlight can increase the heat index by as much as 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

Discuss heat safety precautions with members of your household. Have a plan for wherever you spend time—home, work, and school—and prepare for the possibility of power outages.

Check the contents of your emergency disaster kit in case a power outage occurs.

Know those in your neighborhood who are young, elderly, sick or overweight. They are more likely to become victims of excessive heat and may need assistance.

In dwellings without air conditioning, choose places to go for relief during the warmest part of the day.

Be aware that people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heatwave than those living in rural areas.

Train in first aid to learn ways to properly treat heatrelated emergencies.

Respond Appropriately Make choices about outdoor activities according to the temperature and heat index. In some cases, cancellations of outdoor activities may be appropriate. It is also important to check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by heat.

Drink plenty of fluids— even if you do not feel

thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.

Eat small meals and eat more often.

Avoid extreme temperature changes.

Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors.

Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

Use the buddy system when working in excessive heat.

Take frequent breaks when working outdoors.

Heat-Related Illnesses Heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat stroke are three common heat-related illnesses.

Heat Cramps Muscular pains and spasms in the legs or abdomen are usually called heat cramps. These are often an early sign that the body is having trouble with the heat.

To treat heat cramps: - get the person to a cool place and have them rest.

Lightly stretch affected muscles and gently massage the area.

- give an electrolytefilled fluid—such as a sports drink—fruit juice, milk or water. Do not give the person salt tablets.

Heat Exhaustion Heat exhaustion is a more severe condition.

This condition often affects athletes, firefighters, construction workers and factory workers. It also affects those wearing heavy clothing in a hot, humid environment.

Signs of heat exhaustion include: - cool, moist, pale, ashen or flushed skin - headache - nausea - dizziness - weakness and - exhaustion.

Move the person to a cool environment with circulating air. Remove or loosen as much clothing as possible and apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. If the person is conscious, give small amounts of fluid every 15 minutes. However, if the person’s condition does not improve, if he or she refuses water, has a change in consciousness or vomits, call 9-1-1.

Heat Stroke Heat stroke is a lifethreatening condition

that usually occurs after a person ignores the signals of heat exhaustion. This condition develops when the body’s systems are overwhelmed by heat and begin to stop functioning.

Signs of heat stroke include: - extremely high body temperature - red skin, which may be dry or moist - changes in consciousness - rapid, weak pulse - rapid, shallow breathing - confusion - vomiting and - seizures.

If any of these symptoms develop, call 9-1-1 immediately. Home treatment is not sufficient in cases of heat stroke. Get the individual emergency medical care as soon as possible.

Venomous Snakes of Alabama Alabama is home to one of the most diverse wildlife populations in the country. In fact, Alabama consistently ranks among the top-five states in overall biodiversity. Included in this population are more than 50 species of snakes.

While most are non-venomous, Alabama is home to six species of venomous snakes. Deaths from snakebites are relatively uncommon in Alabama, however it is important to know how to identify and avoid these snakes.

Six Venomous Snakes Alabama Extension Forestry, Wildlife and Natural Resources Regional Agent Bence Carter, said the six venomous snakes of Alabama include the Eastern coral snake, copperhead, cottonmouth, Eastern diamondback, timber rattlesnake and pigmy rattlesnake.

“There are six venomous snake species in Alabama, five of them falling into the category of pit vipers,” Carter said.

“The Eastern coral snake is the single venomous species not falling into the pit viper category.”

Pit vipers have a broad, triangular shaped head, a heavy body relative to their length, vertical pupils and a single row of scales on the belly below the anal scales.

Carter said the term “pit viper” refers to the pit

Fuller,

from A4 and still am fascinated by this particular flower’s determination to survive after being knocked down so many times.

A dear friend explained this to be called “phototropism.” The term states that it’s the orientation of a plant or other organism in response to light, either toward (positive phototropism) the source of light or away from it (negative phototropism.) In this instance, since the plant was facing towards the light it would be considered “positive phototropism.”

In my 37 years, I have weathered many storms.

organs between the eyes and nostrils.

“These organs detect infrared radiation emitted by warm-blooded prey species,” he said. “This sensory organ is used to detect variations in temperature, particularly when hunting.”

There are some nonvenomous snakes that may flatten their heads to give a more triangular shape.

Therefore, it is better to know and recognize the distinctive patterns of venomous snakes.

Copperhead Copperheads are medium-sized snakes that have distinct copper-red heads and hourglass-shaped markings across their backs. The average length of these snakes is between two and three feet. Copperheads color patterns vary, but typically they have dark brown hourglass like markings on a lighter brown background. When disturbed, they usually vibrate their tail rapidly and may give off a strong, musky scent. These snakes are often more defensive at night than during the day.

Cottonmouth Also known as water moccasins, cottonmouths get their name for the white color of the inside of their mouths. They often show their mouths when they are feeling territorial or are ready to strike.

You most often find these snakes living in areas around water including rivers, lakes, streams and swamplands. Young cottonmouths have a lighter colored background with dark-brown bands. The adults generally appear darker brown to black in color. These snakes also have a dark band that covers the eyes and sides of the face. Cottonmouths are large, heavy-bodied snakes and can reach lengths between 30 and 48 inches.

Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake Eastern Diamondbacks are the largest venomous snake in Alabama. These snakes can reach a length of more than seven feet.

Their name comes from the dark brown, diamondshaped patterns that extends down their backs.

Eastern Diamondbacks live primarily in the lower coastal plains of the state, generally living in drier ar-

eas such as pine flatwoods, coastal scrub habitats and sandy woodlands.

Timber Rattlesnake Timber rattlesnakes, sometimes referred to as canebrake rattlesnakes, live in all areas of Alabama. They are a fairly large snake, reaching lengths up to six feet.

Their coloring is usually a combination of yellow and dark brown markings, however, there have been snakes found with a gray color with black markings.

The timber rattlesnake’s darker markings often appear in a bent cross band or chevron pattern. Their coloration makes it hard to detect them in forested areas.

Pigmy Rattlesnake As their name suggests, pigmy rattlesnakes seldom reach lengths greater than two feet. While they live throughout the state, they are seldom seen. These snakes are light brown or gray in color, with dark brown or black markings running along their back.

Their small rattles can rarely be heard more than three feet away.

Eastern Coral Snake Not only are Eastern Coral snakes the most venomous snakes in Alabama, they are the most venomous snake native to the United States. They are distinctly known for their red, yellow and black bands—with the red and yellow bands touching.

Because there are nonvenomous snakes that have similar markings, the phrase “red touching yellow, kill a fellow; red touches black, a friend of Jack” is commonly used to help distinguish them from other species.

However, according to Carter, there have been reports of some variations in color patterns. The one thing that always holds up is the black color of their snout. Eastern coral snakes are rarely seen and generally live underground in loose soils. While primarily found in south Alabama, there have been sightings as far north as Coosa County.

Common Look-A-Likes Carter said there are some non-venomous snakes that resemble venomous species.

“Many water snake species, typically found in

or around water, are commonly mistaken for cottonmouths,” Carter said.

“Several species might have patterns, bandings or dark colorings that, at first glance, look similar to a cottonmouth. However, after further examination, they are distinguishable.”

There are three nonvenomous species, scarlet snakes, scarlet kingsnakes and red milk snakes, that have similar markings to those of the Eastern coral snake. However, in these species the yellow bands touch black and not red.

According to Carter, there are some non-venomous species that might even try to flatten their heads or bodies to look more ominous when they feel threatened.

Dealing With Snakes and Snakebites If encountering a venomous snake, Carter said the best thing to do it give it space.

“Avoid attempting to pick up or move the snake.

Give the snake its space and leave it alone,” Carter said. “Do not get between the snake and cover or brush, as it may just try to escape.”

If bitten by a venomous snake, it is important to seek medical help immediately.

“While waiting on medical assistance, it is important to remain as calm as possible,” Carter said. “Also, remove any tight-fitting jewelry or clothing, as swelling near the bite area may occur.”

Carter said to try and remember distinguishable characteristics of the snake such as color, patterns, shape, etc.

“If it does not delay medical treatment, from a safe distance take a picture of the snake, for positive identification if possible,” Carter said. “Do not try to capture or kill the snake, as venomous snakes can still be capable of envenomation after death.”

More Information Alabama Extension has the publication Identification and Control of Snakes in Alabama that has more information about the snakes that call Alabama home. For more information, call 334-749-3353.

The Lee County Extension Office is located at 600 S. 7th St. in Opelika.

I have nearly drowned in the heavy downpour of my own tears. I have been blown over and knocked down by winds of change.

A few times I felt like I would never be able to stand on my own two feet again. A few times I didn’t want to. Something inside of me kept searching.

Something inside each of us urges us to move forward—to keep going…to keep growing.

Something urges us to get back up and keep moving towards the light. We have a built-in compass in our spirit that constantly navigates us towards that light through the darkness. We cannot thrive in the dark. We need light to grow.

Without light a flower

cannot bloom. It cannot grow. It is determined to grow because that’s what it’s meant to do. It was planted to grow and bloom. It has a reason. It serves a purpose.

So do I. So do you.

I realized in that very moment that I have so much in common with that broken sunflower.

I think we all have so much in common with this fantastically strong plant. If I had to describe it in one word I would use “resilient.”

It gets knocked down countless times, yet never turns its face from the light. It never gives up.

After all of the brokenness, after all of the growing and searching for that light, it blooms.

After all of our broken-

ness, the growth, regrowth, and searching for the light, we bloom.

And you know what happens when you bloom? You become a source of light for someone else.

When you are broken, stretch yourself into the direction of the sun.

Through light you will find healing and growth.

Then, you bloom.

Lucy Fuller is a lover of nature, animals, gardening, and old houses. She is a full-time mother and wife. She currently resides in Opelika with her husband, two daughters, 3 dogs, and cat. She may be reached at fullalove2017@gmail.com.

Editor’s Note: This column was first published July 5, 2018.

Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: • July 25 - ‘Act of Congress’ at Sundilla • July 27 - 12th annual ‘Waverly Tomato Showdown’ • July 27 - Annual Auburn Wing Fest • July 31 - Jack Barksdale and Ben Danaher at The Sound Wall

Dr. Shirley Lazenby shares recipes for figs, other summer favorites Ann Cipperly’s

Southern

Hospitality

A

narrow road winding through a barn leads to the home of Doctors Shirley and Allen Lazenby in an idyllic setting. As the car pulls up, their yellow lab dog comes over to check out the new arrival. After a minute or two, she walks over to check out a tractor on the side.

The grounds are lovely with trees and plants.

Off of the back porch, Shirley has planted small fig trees. Until a few years ago Shirley had never eaten a fresh fig. When she tried one at the farmer’s market,

she was smitten. It is now her favorite fruit, and she has been waiting for figs to ripen and be available at markets to prepare her favorite recipes with figs.

Shirley finds it difficult to believe they moved to Opelika 25 years ago, which is the longest she has ever lived anywhere. When she was growing up, her father worked for Shell, and they moved every two to three years, living mostly in the midwest. Both of her parents lived on farms on the East Coast.

“They always wanted

to imprint us with agriculture,” Shirley said. “When we lived in California, they wanted us to join 4-H. My brother raised rabbits.”

Shirley is the oldest of four. While in 4-H, she entered her grandmother’s famous blueberry coffee cake in the county fair and won. The scrumptious coffee cake is served with lemon daffodil sauce.

Growing up, Shirley did not think about being a physician. Every time she moved to a different school district, she would quickly pick up math and science.

Photo by Ann Cipperly Dr. Shirley Lazenby has a fondness for fresh figs. She had never eaten one until a few years ago. Shirley and her husband, Dr. Allen Lazenby, moved to Opelika 25 years ago and settled on land in the back of his parents’ home where he grew up. Shirley has planted small fig trees on the property. She is sharing her favorite fig recipes and other favorites for summer.

Her father said if he could do it over he would have been a physician, which may have planted a seed.

When she arrived at Texas A&M University, Shirley knew she wanted to be a biochemist.

“As time went on,” Shirley said, “it looked like being a doctor would be a good choice. I did a summer research program

at M.D. Anderson and discovered it was not what I thought it would be. I found that research generally led to more questions, not answers.”

About mid-way through college, Shirley decided she wanted to be a doctor. At the time it was great to be in Texas, as college and medical school was partially funded by oil and gas revenue. She could attend medi-

cal school for $800 a semester.

Shirley met Allen in Houston. After a fellowship at M.D. Anderson, Allen returned to Emory to complete his residency. Then they moved to Opelika.

She found moving to the South was a huge culture shock. “Although I had moved around my entire life,” See Cipperly, page A9

Second annual 'Food Day Opelika's Bottling Plant Event Center will be a destination for United Way' returns to Municipal Park Aug. 16 for live music during August

By Morgan Bryce Editor Municipal Park will be the site of the city of Opelika’s second annual “Food Day for United Way” Aug. 16 from 5 to 7 p.m.

Organized by Opelika Community Relations Officer Leigh Krehling, the event serves as a chance to benefit the United Way’s efforts to better the lives of

all for people in the Auburn-Opelika area.

“The city of Opelika truly loves the United Way. We decided we wanted to provide a way for us to help educate citizens about the United Way and the great things the organization does for our community,” Krehling said. “What’s better than a community event full of great food and fun?”

Activities sched-

uled to take place during the admission-free event include rides around the park on the beloved Rocky Brook Rocket, a duck race and music provided by local entertainment DJ Silky Tone.

Visitors are encouraged to bring money for food and the race, which will include multiple prizes like enjoying a lunch with Mayor Gary Fuller.

See Food Day, page A8

By Morgan Bryce Editor

From country to covers of 80s hair metal classics and deeply rooted “Bayou Soul,” downtown Opelika’s Bottling Plant Event Center will be a destination for several live music events during the month of August.

Following is a breakdown of the four events, including ticketing options for each, all of which can be purchased through www.showclix.com.

• Aug. 2 - The Velcro

Pygmies Formed in Louisville, Kentucky “The Velcro Pygmies” are an 80s and 90s hair metal cover band that perform classic hits from a wide array of bands from that era, including KISS, Poison and Van Halen.

Established in 1990, the group has toured extensively throughout the country, building a name for itself because of its high-energy, fan-engaging performances.

“The Velcro Pygmies travel the country year round, from the Gulf

Shores to the Great Lakes, to share the sights, sounds and stain-washed denim of the glorious ’80s, schooling audiences on the difference between a rock band and a rock show,” according to a post on their website.

“From start to finish, they command the stage with a prowess uncommon in today’s industry, and they leave you begging for more. No gimmicks or tricks, but they’ll treat you to genuine, undiluted rock ‘n’ roll energy that unites.”

See BPEC, page A8

Monday-Saturday 11 AM - 8 PM

pelika O Observer

A8 July 24, 2019

BPEC, from A7 Tickets are $12. Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show starts at 9 p.m.

• Aug. 16 - Marc Broussard Band and Friends Louisiana native Marc Broussard will bring a strong dose of “Bayou Soul” to the Bottling Plant Event Center, a genre that “blends blues, funk, pop, R&B and rock influences into one distinct Southern sound” according to music critics.

“The quality of his music is superb. He's an international performer and it's truly an honor to have him come to Opelika,” said Bottling Plant Event Center Owner Lisa Ditchkoff.

Opelika native Sylvia Novak will open the evening at 8 p.m. followed by the Auburn-based band Kudzu Voodoo at 8:40 p.m. Broussard’s band will

take the stage at 9:30 p.m.

Advance tickets are $25 plus tax and can be ordered until 11:30 a.m. Aug. 16.

At-door tickets will cost $30 plus tax.

• Aug. 17 - David Lee Show “World-Class Elvis” World champion Elvis Presley entertainer David Lee will grace the stage at Opelika’s Bottling Plant Event Center Aug. 17, with showtime set for 7 p.m.

A Birmingham native, Lee started his career in 1995 as an Elvis imitator.

Lee’s talents, stage presence and vocal range have been reviewed by music critics as “extremely close to Presley’s,” which have garnered him multiple appearances in films and television shows and the 2015 “Ultimate Elvis” award from Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Representing ‘70s-era Elvis, concertgoers can expect to hear the best and biggest hits from the decade, including “The

Wonder of You,” “Always on My Mind” and “Suspicious Minds.”

Tickets for individuals are $25, $125 for a table of four and $250 for a table of eight plus tax. Food will be available for purchase during the show.

• Aug. 24 - The Wilson Brothers Band and Friends The Nashville-based country quintet “The Wilson Brothers Band” is making the 304-mile trek to perform at the Bottling Plant Event Center Aug. 24.

Founding members and brothers Chad and Kyle Wilson are Alexander City natives who were exposed to music at a young age

through their family’s gospel quartet. Along with fellow bandmates David Sanford and Bobby Spence, the Wilson Brothers Band are “finally getting the attention and airtime that most in Nashville envy” according to a June 29, 2018 article in the Alexander City Outlook.

Doors open at 7 p.m. and showtime is set for 8 p.m.

Advance tickets are $20 plus tax and will be available for purchase online until 11:30 p.m. on Aug. 23. At-door tickets will cost $25, and there will be food served at the show.

For more information, call 334-705-5466. The venue is located at 614 N. Railroad Ave.

OGrows Farmer’s Market has local produce and more every Tuesday from 3 to 6 p.m.

Photos special to the Opelika Observer

Buying or Selling?

Photos by Irving Blanco/For the Opelika Observer The OGrows Farmer’s Market is open every Tuesday from 3 to 6 p.m. at 1101 Glenn St. near downtown Opelika. Local farmers and vendors have fresh produce, soaps and more.

Call:

Food Day,

Lisa Thrift

from A7

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

www.thedensongroup.com

Krehling added that Opelika city employees will participate in prize drawings and a “Penny Wars” competition to help raise money for the United Way. The winning department will receive a pizza party.

“When I came on board with the city, (Mayor Fuller) challenged me as the city’s campaign chair

to help bring in more money for the United Way. (This event will be) a day to bring citizens and employees together for a little fellowship and fun,” Krehling said.

In case of rain, the event will be postponed until Aug. 17 and will take place between 2 and 5 p.m.

For more information or updates, find the “Food Day for United Way” Facebook event page. The park is located at 700 5th Ave.

Opelika Charitable Giving Facts As the economy improves and confidence grows, charitable giving is making a comeback. Now could be a good time to evaluate giving and consider new ways to support the causes that you care about.

REASONS FOR GIVING A desire to be philanthropic, to create a legacy, sense of moral duty Tax minimization, asset management, estate planning Serving Retirees • families • small business Owners • Nonprofits • Individuals

Financial planning for today, for tomorrow, for life.

208 South 8th Street Opelika, AL 36801 www.investopelika.com Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Railroad Investment group is not a registered broker dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Securities are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Inc., member FDIC/SIPC.

Owners, RIG Financial Advisors, RJFS BLAKE HENRY LAUREL CALLAWAY Office - 334-748-9999 Fax - 334-748-9998

Call us today to discuss your charitable giving strategy Raymond James financial advisors do not render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professionals.

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

pelika O Observer

A9 July 24, 2019

Mend to host benefit at Jules Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts in Auburn on Aug. 13 Special to the Opelika Observer

In a continuing effort to assist residents affected by the March 3 tornadoes, Mend will host a tornado relief benefit from 6 to 8 p.m. on Aug. 13 called “Mend the Heart” at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts at Auburn University.

During the event, there will be a live and silent auction, with the silent auction offering paintings, pottery and other art, while the live auction will have unique athletic items and opportunities up for bid.

Hors d'oeuvres will be served and a cash bar will be available.

“We’re very excited about this event,” said EAMC Chaplain and Mend Chairperson Laura Eason.

“The idea for this actually began just a few days after the

Cipperly,

from A7

she said, “it is very different.”

They moved to property in the back of his parents’ home where Allen grew up. His parents are Peggy Lazenby and the late Dr. William Lazenby.

Allen went to work at the Surgical Clinic at the Medical Arts Center where he is still on staff. Shirley was also on staff at the surgical clinic from 2004 to 2007. She had a solo practice while they were having children.

Later, Shirley shifted gears and went to work with a mentor in Alexander City, and worked in the emergency room for 15 years. A year ago, she started working in the emergency room at East Alabama Medical Center.

tornado when someone brought in three pieces of art they had just painted based on the happenings in the community. From that humble beginning, this has turned into a communitywide event with all of the resources needed to host the event being donated. That will allow 100% of the funds raised to be used for the rebuilding effort in Lee County.”

In addition to the silent auction and live auction opportunities, attendees will be able to donate specific building materials for each home being built.

“This will be similar to a wedding registry where you can choose the gift level that works for you and know specifically how you are helping,” Eason added. “For example, you could donate $25

for a box of nails that will be used on a specific house, or $500 for doors at another house.”

The “Mend the Heart” event will feature live music by Muse.

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased online at eamc.org/mend or at the Auburn or Opelika chambers of commerce. For people who are unable to attend, but wish to help, there is a “Donate” button on the eamc.org/mend website.

The following is a list of sponsors for this event: Food vendors: - Acre - Amsterdam Café - Arriccia - Hamilton’s - Lucy’s - Terra Cotta Catering - The Depot - The Hound and - Ursula’s Catering Other supporting

Even though Shirley worked, she was always busy with the children.

“The kids are my world,” she said, “and it rocked my world when they were all gone. It is a big adjustment.”

Daughter Allison is a medical student at UAB, while daughter Anna, who has traveled all over the world, will graduate with an architecture degree at the University of Texas.

Shirley and Allen’s son Kevin is a senior at Vanderbilt in biomedical engineering, studying to attend medical school.

Before attending college, Kevin won the Lee County Spelling Bee three times and advanced to the State Spelling Bee, which he won twice.

He recently went to Washington D.C. for his fourth National Spelling Bee. Former finalists who are in college can

apply to be a host at the National Spelling Bee. Kevin was selected to be on the “Bee Crew” from 200 applicants.

He served as a host and mentor on the support staff.

Since the kids were busy in sports, the Lazenby’s became regulars at the parks and recreation department. When one of the board members retired, Shirley was appointed and then re-appointed.

“I have enjoyed being on the board,” she said, as she has an interest in bike trails. After research, she discovered that Opelika had passed a master bike plan in 2001, but it had been lost after 9/11.

She is working toward Opelika being a bicycle friendly community. Bikeology is the curriculum now available to fifth graders to teach them how to ride bikes.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

vendors: - Linens provided

by Outdoor Rentals of Columbus - Live music provided by Muse - Museum use by Auburn University - Tents and tables provided by The Tailgate Guys.

The museum is located at 901 S. Col-

“I am excited about the Creekline Trails Project that will develop biking, hiking and even wheelchair access along all of Opelika creeks over time,” she said. “I feel it is the right time.”

She is on the task force for the Trails Project.

When the children come to visit, Shirley enjoys being in the kitchen with them and preparing meals. After she discovered she adores figs, she began collecting fig recipes and planting fig trees.

She is sharing her favorite fig recipes along with a wonderful tomato, goat cheese and herb pie that uses heirloom tomatoes and also her grandmother’s winning blueberry coffee cake with lemon daffodil sauce.

Shirley’s favorite play is “Hamilton,” and she especially enjoys the part where George Washington sings a

lege St. About Mend Mend is a program that brings together the many local service organizations, churches, civic groups and businesses, along with national and state organizations, to work on long term recovery efforts. Their mis-

sion is to “To ensure that all affected by tragedy and disaster are able to fully recover physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.” For more information, call 334-528-MEND, visiteamc.org/mend, like the Mend Facebook page or email MEND@eamc.org.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

song with the Bible verse “everyone should sit under their own vine and fig tree.”

Hopefully, figs will be at the markets soon.

Clip and save the recipes to be ready.

If you have a fig tree, maybe share a few with Shirley.

Looking back on living in Opelika for 25 years, Shirley sees it as

a fairy tale.

“The kids have had every opportunity in the world at Opelika City Schools,” Shirley said.

“The climate is nice, and economic opportunity is huge. It has been great.”

Ann Cipperly can be reached at recipes@ cipperly.com See Recipes, page A11

A10 July 24, 2019

pelika Observer O

Conner Lorre performs at Summer Swing Summer Swing season nearly over; final concert next Tuesday

Photos by Irving Blanco/For the Opelika Observer

pelika O Observer ‘Karing-4-Kayla’ fundraising event held on July 20 at Lee County Fairgrounds to raise money for tornado survivor A11

July 24, 2019

By Kelly Daniel For the Opelika Observer On July 20, Lee County residents held a fundraising event to benefit Kayla Grimes, a Beauregard resident who lost everything in the tornadoes that struck Lee County earlier this year.

Not only did Kayla lose her father, stepmother and best friend, but she dealt with serious injuries that required multiple surgeries and rehab.

A large percentage of her expenses are out of pocket because, as the flyer explained, “She was on her father’s insurance plan, so she now has only minimal governmental coverage. Not enough!”

How Karing-4-Kayla Began When Lee County

Recipes,

from A9 Grilled Sausage and Fig Pizza with Goat Cheese 1 lb. fresh pizza dough 5 Tbsp. PomegranateCumin Dressing 7 1/2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 4 1/2 Tbsp. white balsamic vinegar 3 Tbsp. sliced fresh mint 1 1/2 Tbsp. pomegranate molasses 1 Tbsp. ground cumin Whisk these 5 ingredients a bowl. Mix in 6 Tbsp. minced shallots; season with salt and pepper.

1 cup coarsely grated Fontina cheese Fresh arugula 2 grilled sausages, sliced 1/3 inch thick 6 fresh figs, quartered 2 thin red onion slices, rings separated 1 cup crumbled soft fresh goat cheese Prepare grill (medium high heat). Halve dough; roll to 10-inch rounds.

Brush tops with some of the Pomegranate-Cumin Dressing.

Grill pizzas, seasoned side down, until golden on bottom, about 4 minutes.

Turn pizzas over. Top with Fontina, arugula, sausages, figs and onions. Drizzle with more dressing. Cover grill until Fontina melts and pizza is cooked through, about 4 minutes. Top with goat cheese. Grill until goat cheese softens, about 1 minute.

Turkish Yogurt Cake with Figs 4 large eggs, separated 1/2 cup sugar 3 Tbsp. flour 1 1/2 cups full fat Greek yogurt Grated zest plus juice of 1/2 lemon 1 1/2 tsp. orange blossom water 4-6 fresh figs, halved Powdered sugar Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Butter a 9-inch springform pan.

In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar until creamy and light. Add the flour and mix until combined; then, stir in yogurt, lemon zest and juice and orange blossom water. Beat egg whites in a clean glass bowl using an electric beater until stiff peaks form. Gently

resident Alicia McLeod heard Kayla’s story, she felt the need to help. She organized Karing-4-Kayla to help Kayla’s family to pay these rising medical costs that have built up from the day after the tornado until now. The all-day fundraiser was part-concert and partfestival, offering entertainment and raffle prizes donated by individuals from the region. The Christian Motorcycle Association’s Trinity Riders completed a domino run for the event, raising money for Kayla while competing for prizes. A pet show gave attendees a chance to show off their beloved animals. Local musicians provided music from genres including gospel, rock and country, while various vendors

provided attractions such as bounce houses, a petting zoo and games for children at the event.

Vendors were also present, showcasing their products and services.

Discounted pet grooming was offered by Pampered Pets, while local individuals and businesses sold handmade crafts and locally made foods.

Kayla’s Resilience in the Face of Tragedy In spite of the tragic loss of loved ones and the severe injuries that she suffered, Kayla is often smiling. Salem resident Taylor Osborn attended the event and said that Kayla’s positivity inspires her.

“Just seeing her smile put a smile on my face,” Osborn said. “It just goes to show every one of us

that there is hope in this world, and if she can fight to survive, then we can too.”

One of the fundraising efforts involved putting Sheriff Jay Jones in jail at the event. Jones volunteered to be put in jail until he raised $400 from event attendees. When Jones had raised almost $400, donations to free Jay Jones slowed down, which Kayla noticed as the clock kept ticking.

“Kayla felt bad about it, so she decided she wanted to go to jail too,” McLeod said. “So they put her in jail with Jay, they raised $540 and both went free.”

Neighbors Helping Each Other The festival is a prime example of how local people and businesses

fold into batter until combined. Pour batter into prepared pan and arrange fig slices on top, face up.

Bake the cake for 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and springy (it'll look a lot like a soufflé). The cake will rise a lot but will decrease when removed from the oven. Let it cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar, slicing and serving.

1/4 cup butter 1 cup sugar 2 eggs, beaten 1 cup sour cream 1 tsp. baking soda 2 cups flour 2 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen Cream butter and sugar together. Add eggs. Sift baking soda and flour.

Adds alternately with sour cream. Mix well until creamy and smooth.

Gently add berries (frozen ones do not need to be thawed). Pour batter into greased angel food tube pan or spring -form pan. Mix the following together well and sprinkle top: 1/2 cup sugar 1/3 cup flour 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1/4 cup butter Bake at 350 degrees for 50 minutes or until done.

Lemon Daffodil Sauce Mix 1/2 cup sugar, 4 tsp. cornstarch, dash salt and dash nutmeg.

Gradually stir in 1 cup water. Cook and stir over low heat until thick and bubbly.

Stir a little hot mixture into 2 beaten egg yolks; return to hot mixture.

Cook and stir 1 minute.

Remove from heat; add 2 Tbsp. butter, 1/2 tsp. grated lemon peel, and 2 Tbsp. lemon juice; blend.

degrees.

Line 12 muffin tins with liners. Spread out the wheat bran on a parchment-lined baking sheet; bake for 5 to 7 minutes until lightly toasted. In a large bowl, mix together the toasted wheat bran, yogurt, water, orange zest, honey, fig jam and light brown sugar. Next, add oil, egg and egg white; mix until combined. Sift dry ingredients into wet ingredients and throw in the chopped pistachios; mix until just combined, being sure not to over mix.

Spoon batter into muffin liners, filling them about 3/4 full. Top with one or a few slices of the quarter figs. Transfer to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes., until the muffins look and feel set. Allow to cool for 5 minutes in the muffin tins and then remove and cool on a cooling rack.

Raspberry and Fig Cake Dry breadcrumbs (I use cornmeal) 1 1/2 cups sugar 3 eggs 1/2 cup butter, melted Zest of 3 limes, divided 1 1/2 cups flour Juice of 1 lime 1/2 pint raspberries 4 figs, cut into eighths (or additional 1/2 pint raspberries) Powdered sugar Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9-inch springform pan and coat with breadcrumbs.

In a bowl, using a handheld mixer, beat the sugar and eggs at high speed. until fluffy, 2 minutes. Beat in butter and 2/3 of the zests. At low speed, alternately beat in flour and lime juice until almost incorporated.

Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the batter until smooth. Scrape batter into prepared pan and smooth the surface. Gently press in raspberries and figs.

Bake the cake on the bottom third of oven for 40 minutes. Transfer to the upper third of oven and continue baking for 35 minutes longer until a cake tester instead in the center comes out clean with a few crumbs attached. Transfer to a rack to cool. Run a thin knife around the edge and release the springform.

Dust with powdered sugar. Sprinkle with remaining lime zest, slice and serve.

Blueberry Coffee Cake with Lemon Daffodil Sauce When Shirley was in 4-H, she prepared her grandmother Blanche Hover Davenport’s special coffee cake to enter in the fair and won!

Fig Bran Muffins One of my all-time favorite nurses, Kevin Smith, gave me a jar of fig preserves that he had made. At the time, I could not figure out what to do with it! Now I do! I blend it slightly in the food processor before using it as fig jam in this recipe.

2 cups wheat bran 1/2 cup yogurt 1 cup water 1/4 tsp. orange zest 1 Tbsp. honey 3 Tbsp. fig jam 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1 egg 1 egg white 1/2 cup flour 1/4 cup whole wheat flour 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. cinnamon Pinch of nutmeg 3/4 tsp. salt 1/2 cup chopped pistachios 4-5 figs, quartered Preheat oven to 350

Tomato, Cheese and Herb Tart This is really pretty with multicolored Heirloom tomatoes.

Crust: 1 1/4 cups flour 1/4 tsp. salt 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter-cut into pieces 4 Tbsp. ice water Filling: 5 medium tomatoes, cut into 1/2 inch thick slices 9 oz. Emmenthal or Gruyere cheese, thinly sliced 1 Tbsp. minced fresh basil (or 1 tsp. dried) 1 tsp. minced fresh thyme (or 1/4 tsp. dried) 1 tsp. minced fresh oregano (or 1/4 tsp. dried) 3 Tbsp. freshly grated parmesan cheese Combine flour and salt in processor. Add butter and cut in using on/off turn until mixture resembles coarse meal. Add enough water by Tbsp. to form moist clumps. Gather dough into a ball; flatten into disk. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 13-inch round. Transfer to an 11-inch diameter tart pan with removable bottom. Trim crust edges.

Freeze crust for 15 minutes. Line crust with foil.

Fill with dried beans or pie weights. Bake until crust is set, about 15 minutes. Re-

Photo by Churmell Mitchell/Game Changer Photography

can come together to help a neighbor in need.

McLeod, who shared that she has been involved in fundraising for as long as she can remember, started the effort, and she was later joined by many volunteers and her coorganizer Annah Murphy St. John. Karing-4-Kayla

became a community effort, with participation from many local organizations, including first responders from multiple departments. “I love how everyone there including the musicians, the vendors, the volunteers, the

move foil and beans and bake until pale golden, about 15 minutes more.

Cool crust on rack. (Can be prepared one day ahead. Cover and let stand at room temperature.) Cut each tomato slice in half. Place tomato slices on paper towels and let drain for 45 minutes. Top crust with cheese slices.

Arrange tomatoes atop cheese, overlapping slightly. Sprinkle herbs, then Parmesan cheese over tomatoes. Season with pepper. Bake until cheese melts and tomatoes are tender, about 35 minutes. Cool slightly.

Remove tart pan sides.

Cut the tart into wedges and serve. Makes 8 servings.

when most of the liquid has evaporated and it has darkened in color. Remove the pot from the stove and allow the jam to cool slightly.

Then transfer the jam to a food processor and pulse until desired consistency is reached. Transfer jam to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator.

Fig-Bacon Bourbon Jam 1 lb. figs (fresh or dried), halved 1 lb. bacon, cut into 1 inch pieces 1 large onion, diced 2 garlic cloves, diced 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup bourbon 1/2 cup strong coffee 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup maple syrup 1/2 tsp. ginger 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. chili powder If you are using dried figs, place in a medium bowl and add bourbon, coffee, and 1/2 cup of water. Cover and let the figs soak for about 1 hour. Heat a large heavy bottomed pot over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until bacon is done and slightly browned, but not crispy. Remove bacon from the pot and transfer it to a papertowel lined plate. Pour off some of the bacon grease, leaving about 1 Tbsp. in the pot. Add onion and garlic to the pot with reserved bacon grease and sauté until onions are starting to soften, about 5 minutes.

Add figs and all the remaining ingredients, including cooked bacon. Bring the mixture to a boil, then turn down heat to maintain a low simmer for about 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally during this time. The jam is done

See Kayla, page A15

Food Ratings Cluck It Bucket 2505 Lee Road 430 Smiths Station Score: 100 Jack’s Family Restaurant 1903 Pepperell Pkwy.

Opelika Score: 99 New China 1515 2nd Ave. Opelika Score: 99 Starbuck’s 2056 Interstate Dr. Opelika Score: 99 Cook-Out Restaurant 2168 Interstate Dr. Opelika Score: 98 Johnny Brusco’s New York Style 2408 E. University Dr. Auburn Score: 97 Marco’s Pizza 1459 Fox Run Pkwy.

Opelika Score: 96 Wild Wing Cafe 3040 Capps Way Opelika Score: 95

pelika O Observer

A12 July 24, 2019

OBITUARIES Jewell Rice Goree Jewell Rice Goree’s hope was made complete on Monday, July 15, 2019 surrounded by her loving family at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika. She was 85 years old.

Jewell was born on January 17, 1934, to the late William Oscar and Annie Maude Rice in Troup County, Georgia.

After losing her father at a young age, she and her mother followed her sister and her husband to Opelika in 1948. Jewell’s family and her sister’s family lived in houses side by side until her sister’s

death.

On April 5, 1950, Jewell married the love of her life, William Langley "Billy" Goree Sr. Not long after their marriage, Jewell began working in the sewing plant of Opelika Manufacturing Corp., enjoying her many years there. In the 1970s, Billy and Jewell decided to go into business for themselves and opened Goree's Upholstery on First Avenue in Opelika where she again put her talent as a seamstress to work. They retired from the upholstery business in 1996 and enjoyed travelling in their travel trailer, especially

to North Alabama to visit family there. Following Billy's death in 2001, Jewell began working with her son Jimmy and his wife Pam Goree as part of Goree's Furniture where she worked every day until last week. Jewell, better known as Maw-Maw, loved her family dearly and was the matriarch of the Goree family.

Mrs. Goree loved the Lord and was firm in her faith. She was a member of Airview Baptist Church and later Central Baptist Church where she taught Bible School.

Jewell is preceded in death by her parents

William Oscar and Annie Maude Rice, her husband of 50-plus years William Langley Goree Sr. , brother John William Rice, sister Eugenia Rice Slagle, daughters-in-laws Cindy, Julie and Delia Goree, grandson Jimmy Karl Goree Jr. She is survived by her five children: William L. Goree Jr., Danny R. Goree, Jimmy K. Goree (Pam), Kenneth M. Goree, and Susan Goree Goslin, all of Opelika; six grandchildren: Jill (David) Darnell of Cusseta, AL; Jeremy (Jennifer) Goslin of Opelika; Shellie (Jeff) Smith of Auburn; Jeannie

(Josh) Peden of Pensacola, FL; Bradley Goslin of Pensacola; and Christopher Goree of Atlanta, GA; seven great-grandchildren: Grace Darnell, Abbey Darnell, Jackson Darnell, Davis Peden, William Goslin, Danielle Goslin, and Grayson Smith; niece Linda (John) Murchison of Niceville, FL, and nephew Donald Goree of Gadsden. AL; co-workers at Goree’s Furniture as well as a host of special customers from Goree’s Furniture throughout the years.

She was a Maw-Maw not only to her grandchildren but to many in the

Mavis B. Lusco

Johnny Wayne Greene

Charles Erwin Johnson

Mavis B. Lusco of Opelika was born to the late Flora Fomby and James Raymond Berry on October 13, 1949 and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on July 16, 2019. She was 69 years old.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Lusco; brothers, Junior Berry and Roy Berry.

She loved her Lord Jesus Christ and always wanted others to have a relationship with Him as well!

She is survived by her children, Carlton A. "Pee Wee" Baker Jr. (Shelley), Barry "Scottie" Baker (Tabitha), Levi Baker (Scarlett), and Jason Lusco; grandchildren, Bradley Baker (Heather), David Baker, Matthew Baker, Harley Baker (Rachel), Candice Baker, Miranda Baker Radford (Shawn), Charlie Stallions, Lily Stallions, Brooklyn Baker, and Knox Baker; great grandchildren, Kori Baker, Grey Baker, Bentlee Baker, and Vanlie Radford; brother, Billy Berry (Gayle); sisters, Peggy Dixon, Betty Turner, Mary Hall, and Shirley Nolan.

Visitation was held July 17, 2019 in the parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m.

A funeral service was held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home July 18, 2019 at 2 p.m. with Dr. Rusty Sowell officiating. Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.

Johnny Wayne Greene, 67, was born on August 20, 1951 and passed away on Friday July 12, 2019 He was married to his wife, Ellen, for 29 years.

Johnny graduated from Science Hill High School in Johnson City, TN in 1969. After high school he served in the Air Force for 4 years. He attended East Tennessee State, AUM and Auburn University where he majored in Mathematics and Physical Education.

Johnny worked at Grady’s Tire and Auto for the past 14 years.

Johnny was an avid Auburn fan. He also enjoyed playing softball and golf.

He enjoyed spending time with his family and watching his grandchildren play baseball and basketball.

He was preceded in death by his Aunt and Uncle Martha and Charlie Brockwell by whom he was adopted.

And his parents Patsy Norris and Bufford Greene.

He is survived by his wife Ellen Greene, Opelika, AL; son, Nick Tedder, Blakely, GA; daughters, Brooke Herzing (CJ Hawkins), Opelika, AL, Valerie Jackson (Jason Jackson), Opelika, AL; 6 grandchildren, Lily and Charles Tedder, Kayla and Chris Kinsella, Hunter and Hayden Jackson.

Sisters Peggy Potter (Ronnie Potter), Greeneville, TN, Harriett Carr, Johnson City, TN. A Memorial Service was held on July 20, 2019 at 2 p.m. at Pepperell Baptist Church with Brother Mike Newman officiating. Visitation was 1 hour before the memorial service.

Frederick Dean Funeral Home directed.

Charles Erwin Johnson went to join his sweetheart, Louise, on July 16th at the age of 91. Charlie was born in North Carolina on October 11, 1927. Following his mother’s death, he and his brother moved in with their mother’s family in Spartanburg SC. When she was eight years old Louise saw him across the street playing and decided the cute boy with the curl on his forehead was her new boyfriend.

It was love at first sight for her.

He said he didn’t pay her much mind till his teen years. He thought none of the other girls liked him, not knowing Louise had beat up any girl who made eyes at him.

At the age of 18 she told him they were getting married (and for 69 years he was still saying yes dear).

Shortly after, Charlie enlisted in the Navy in 1945. He was assigned to the USS Shenandoah AD-26, sailing the Mediterranean toward the end of WWII. He served as Ship Postmaster and Captains Assistant. He was discharged on a Friday and went to work on Monday for Rhodes Furniture in Jacksonville, FL, where Louise’s family had moved. In 1957 he was made manager of the Rhodes store in West Point, GA. Louise didn’t think they would be there long, but it remained their home for the rest of their lives. He served as the President of the Merchant’s Association and was a charter member

Send your loved one’s obituary for publication to editor@opelikaobserver.com

Gregory Karl Garbe Mr. Gregory Karl Garbe, 52, of Opelika, AL passed away on July 14, 2019 at Piedmont Hospital in Columbus, GA. Greg was born in Gadsden, AL to the late Richard Karl Garbe and Rachel Griffin Garbe Stewart. He graduated from Southside High School in Southside, AL and graduated from Gadsden State Community College and Auburn University in Electrical Engineering.

He began his career at Galaxy and spent his last 15 years with Holt Fire.

He was a member of the Elks Lodge for many years and his favorite pastime was Auburn football and tailgating.

Opelika community with whom she considered her own.

Visitation was from 3 to 4 p.m. July 18, 2019 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home with the funeral service following at 4 p.m. with Dr. Rusty Sowell officiating. Burial followed in Garden Hills Cemetery.

The family thanks the Opelika community for all of the love and support given to our Maw-Maw throughout the years.

Flowers will be accepted or a donation can be made to your favorite charity in her memory.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

of the “Nifty Coffee Club”. In 1970 Charlie left Rhodes and opened Town Square Furniture in Lanett and Valley Furniture in Shawmut. Four years later he built Johnson Galleries in Opelika, AL. He and Louise worked side by side and it became one of the most recognized furniture stores in the state of Alabama, winning numerous awards. After 37 years in business Charlie closed the store to take care of his health, his sweetheart and enjoy his yardwork. His neighbors will miss seeing him working in the yard and wheeling down the street in his mobility chair with his dog Benji.

Charles Johnson was born to William Allender and Bertha (Deaton) Johnson and had one brother, Willian Neil Johnson.

He is survived by his son, Richard of West Point and daughter Kathy Hunley (Carlton, III) of Opelika, grandsons Carlton Hunley, IV of Opelika and Brian Hunley (Karen) of Opelika and his great grands, Mark and Lucy.

He goes to join Louise who died four years before him, almost to the day.

A celebration of Charlie’s life was held July 21 from 2 to 4 CST in the Johnson Galleries Building, which is now the Bennie Adkins Lee County Community Meeting Center at 205 S. 10th Street in Opelika, AL. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

Greg is survived by his love, Linda Childress Garbe; sons: Mason Stewart Garbe, Andrew Ryan Garbe; siblings: Matthew Garbe of Gadsden, AL, Jeannie Garbe of Alpharetta, GA; mother: Rachel Stewart of Gadsden, AL; grandmother: Tillie (Nonnie) Griffin of Gadsden; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. July 20, 2019, at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 21 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Greg Norred officiating. Burial followed in Garden Hills Cemetery.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

F

I Hunley Group Lambert Transfer & Storage An Interstate Agent for North American Van Lines 1102 Fox Trail Opelika, AL 36803 745-5706

Opelika

amily &

R

A13

Israel’s Law and Order

n Exodus 21:16, we have a section dealing with slaves or servants, (depending on your translation).

Of course, the very mention of the word “slave” puts disciples into an apologetic mode and evokes indignant responses from people who wish for us to know how primitive, crude and backward the laws of God for Israel were. But if we are willing to give the text a brave hearing, we find something quite different.

The first thing we should note is that the slavery spoken of here was not the slavery of the new world where people were kidnapped and sold

as slaves. In 21:16, we read that anyone kidnapping another person was to be put to death (see also Deuteronomy 24:7). Furthermore, the servitude spoken of in this text was limited to six years (21:2)—at which time they received from the person they had been working for a generous allotment to help get them started on their own (Deuteronomy 15:13-14). All of this makes it clear that the slavery spoken of here is something much different than the definition many people import into the text.

If the slavery spoken of here wasn’t the cruel institution

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

we’re familiar with where people were abused for economic gain—what was its purpose?

Israel’s system of slavery was rehabilitative—designed to take people who were on the fringes of society and move them to the center.

When we look at who sold themselves into servitude, we see people in social distress for various

reasons. Some sold themselves due to indebtedness (Leviticus 25:47). Perhaps the debt came about through no fault of their own: their crops didn’t come through due to drought, pests, and plant diseases. Or it could have been the case that the person wasn’t a very good farmer, herder or whatever they did to earn a living and that led to their indebtedness. Or maybe they weren’t hard workers.

Exodus 22:3 adds another reason—the person who had stolen and was unable to repay their debt, so they sold themselves into slavery. Summing it up, whether a person was threatened with margin-

Church calendar • Pepperell Baptist’s youth program meets on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 7 p.m. This is an evening of prayer, Bible Study, and discussion. For more information, contact youth and children’s pastor Ryno Jones if you need more information at 334-745-3108.

• July 22 - Aug. 2 - Registration is now open for Trinity United Methodist Church’s Children’s Day Out program and will end Aug. 2. The fall program begins Aug. 19. For more information, call Kim Epperson at 334-332-2832 or send email to eppersonkim3@gmail.com.

• July 24 at 6 p.m., Raising “G” Rated Children in an “R” Rated World at First Baptist Church Opelika - 301 S 8th St. • July 27 - Airview Church of God is hosting its VBS program July 27 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 334-7457464. The church is located at

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

July 24, 2019

eligion

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

2803 Watson St. • July 28 at 9:45 a.m. - No Place Like Home at First United Methodist Church Opelika (702 Ave A) • July 30 - Way2Serve’s Annual Support Dinner will be held July 30 at the Bottling Plant Event Center in downtown Opelika. For more information or to RSVP, send email to brandi@ theway2serve.org.

• Aug. 9 - First Baptist Church of Opelika will host Rick Burgess Aug. 9 as part of its ongoing series for men “Making a Difference.” Tickets are $10 each and available through www.eventbrite.com.

The church is located at 301 S. 8th St.

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

Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!

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

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

alization because of difficult circumstances, poor skills or bad character, Israel’s servitude system provided a safety net for them. Rather than continuing to accumulate debt (and the desperation that went with it), they could attach themselves to thriving families where they could have another chance, learn how to run a farm or business, work hard and after six years, get a new start.

There were several advantages to this.

There was no provision in Israel’s law for prisons. Capital punishment was applied to more severe situations (a discussion within itself).

For lesser offenses like stealing and failure to pay debts people sold themselves to a productive family, giving them the opportunity to be rehabilitated and start anew rather than being institutionalized with the worst of society.

This meant that rather than resources being used to feed and house them, everyone who could, worked and was productive. But it’s bigger than economics. Man was created to work and when we don’t, we lose something very important—our dignity and sense of purpose.

Israel’s social system was constructed in See Green, page A14

Verse of the Week “But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.We love because he first loved us.”

1 Peter 4:8

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

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

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A14 July 24, 2019

Community Calendar: Events around town

• July 27 - Pursell Farms: Paint Your Pop Art Pet from 4 to 8 p.m.

• Aug. 15 - 16th Annual Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee by the Lee County Literacy Coalition • Aug. 22 - Business Over Breakfast - 7:30 a.m.

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

For the website, Google “village friends village values.”

• The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR chapter is appealing for sweaters, jackets, trousers, shirts and socks, women’s clothing, soft soap in individual containers, shaving supplies, disposable razors, denture cleanser, toothpaste and toothbrushes, DVDs, games, books and magazines to take to veterans at the CAVHCS in Tuskegee. The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter regularly visits veterans living in assisted living, the homeless domiciliary and psych (trauma) ward in Tuskegee. Donations are tax deductible and will be much appreciated. Pick up is provided. Please call Linda Shabo at 887-6659 or at 256-307-1449.

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

Opelika.

• The Opelika 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 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 334-5284197 or deborahowen@ eamc.org.

• The fourth Monday of each month a Community Grief Support Group meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome. For more information call 826-1899 or 502-0216.

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

For more info contact Mary Johnson, 749-1584.

• The Lee County Commission meets the second

Upcoming Events • July 25 - ‘Act of Congress’ at Sundilla • July 25 - 5 p.m.

- Tour de France Watch Party at James Brothers Bikes - 113 S 9th St. • July 25 - 8 p.m. Daniel & McDaniel at the Irish Bred Pub Corner Bar - 833 S Railroad Ave • July 26 - 6 p.m. - Josh Purgason at Jefferson’s 905 S Railroad Avenue • July 26 - 9 p.m. The Mix Tape at the Irish Bred Pub Corner Bar - 833 S Railroad Ave • July 27 - 10 a.m. Violence In Opelika Public Forum at Lee County Meeting Center - 205 S 10th St. • July 27 - 11 a.m. -

Opelika Main Street On Tap • July 27 - 8:30 p.m.

- MarDe Brooks & Tom McClure Live at Resting Pulse Brewery - 714 1st Ave. • July 27 - 12th annual ‘Waverly Tomato Showdown’ • July 27 - Annual Auburn Wing Fest • July 27 - Third annual “Family Movie Night” at the Smiths Station Sports Complex • July 31 - Jack Barksdale and Ben Danaher at The Sound Wall • Aug. 5 - Lee County Voter’s League monthly meeting.

and last Mondays of each month at the courthouse beginning at 5 p.m.

• The Commercial Horticulture Extension Team organizes webinars to provide quick updates for producers on various topics of interest.

Whether you are interested in the proper way to plant fruit trees or have questions in turf management, these webinars cover a wide range of subjects. Webinars are streamed live via Panopto on the last Monday of every month starting in January and ending in November.

During the presentation, participants can send questions via email. The webinars also are recorded and stored in the archive on the Beginning Farmer website.

Webinar topics include: trap cropping for reducing squash insect pests, cowpea curculio updates, nutsedge control, introduction to potting mixes in ornamental container production, dealing with drought in commercial horticulture crops, and many more.

To view the full schedule, please visit www.aces. edu/anr/beginningfarms/ webinars.php. Please send questions during the presentations to Ann Chambliss, thameae@auburn.edu. For questions regarding the webinar series or for providing suggestions, please email Dr. Ayanava Majumdar at bugdoctor@auburn.edu.

Tuesdays: • Ballroom Dance Classes

at the Opelika Sportsplex from 7 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info call Diane at 749-6320.

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

• The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. Meetings are preceded by non-voting work sessions that typically begin about 6:30 to 6:45 p.m.

• Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard. The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6 to 8 p.m. 8685 AL Highway 51.

• A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone dealing with the pain of loss and feeling the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved. The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School.

For more information contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-518-9122.

• The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport.

The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses

on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services.

For more information visit www.auburncap.org or find the organization on Facebook.

• East Alabama Gem & Mineral Society meet the 4th Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m. Meetings are held at the Covington Rec. Center located at 213 Carver Ave. in Opelika.

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

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

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

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

• The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Sup-

The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts presents: • Studio Art Classes | for Children - beginners are welcome - all fine art supplies are provided Enroll Today- 334-4802008 http://www.thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com • Studio Art Classes | for Youth - beginners are welcome - all fine art supplies are provided Enroll Today- 334-4802008 •Studio Art Classes | for Adults - beginners are welcome - all fine art supplies are provided Enroll Today- 334-4802008 •After School Art Classes At Wacoochee Elementary School | Salem, AL Enroll Today- 334-4802008 Classes Begin August 2019 •After School Art Classes At West Smiths Station El-

ementary School Enroll Today- 334-4802008 Classes Begin August 2019 •Portraits of Our People | Student Art Exhibition Smiths Station City Hall Exhibit Galleries Open Daily during City Hall Hours • Vesper | Preview Exhibition An ALABAMA 200 event Smiths Station City Hall Exhibit Galleries Open Daily during City Hall Hours • Historic Jones Store Museum An ALABAMA 200 museum - Tours Hosted by the Smiths Station Historical Commission Museum Hours: Tuesdays & Thursdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. est.

Visit the Museum on the Second Saturday of each month. * the last tour is held at 3:30 p.m. est.

port Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway.

For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@yahoo.com or find them on Facebook.

• Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/ Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes. The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants. Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 334-737-5215 or cheri.paradice@gmail.com for more information or luncheon location of the month.

• 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.

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

Green,

from A13 such a way that this didn’t happen and subsequently lots of social problems were avoided.

All of this meant they lived in community in a way that’s hard for us to comprehend.

People who struggled on the margins because of poor choices, poor character or insufficient skills weren’t shunned or warehoused somewhere—they were absorbed and worked with. In fact, things might work out so well that the servant decided to stay and be a permanent part of the household (Exodus 21:5-6).

Of course, there were other layers and nuances to their system. There were other laws protecting the slaves, as well as those protecting the owner that are offensive to our emphasis on individual freedom (often at the expense of everything else). All of that needs to be worked with and understood in the context of the time.

Nonetheless, I think the general purpose of the system of servitude is clear and its benefits to society aren’t difficult to see.

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

pelika Observer O

A15 July 24, 2019

An ‘Alabama Bucket List’:Kowaliga & Lake Martin

M

y kids could be categorized as lake rats, if there is such a term.

They love the lake, we all do. It’s a thick part of East Alabama culture, folks start flocking to Lake Martin in late spring and we don’t give in till cooler temperatures arrive in October. We visit often in the summer with friends or family, it’s a quick escape from the daily hustle to enjoy each other and cool off in the summer heat.

We have found a sweet spot on Lake Martin, fit for any family. Long days are great for the lake, but what if you just have an evening away and want to sneak off for a tasty family supper and lakeside fun?

The answer is Kowaliga Restaurant.

Kowaliga is located on a beautiful point and marina in Alexander City. It has a deep history on Lake Martin, filled with musicians and old-school ski clubs. We found this spot about three years ago, when my husband and I drove up for a date night. We soon went back with our kids and today when we say, “Who wants to go to Kowaliga?” They all pile up in the truck within 60 seconds with no necessities but a

Kayla,

from A11 first responders, and Sheriff Jay Jones took time out of their busy lives to show their support for her,” said event attendee Taylor Osborn.

Event organizer Alicia McLeod said that the event started small but grew as more people learned about the good cause that the fundraiser would benefit. While a couple of unforeseen obstacles caused the fundraiser to go off schedule, McLeod said that she wasn’t worried because of her faith that God would ensure success for

bathing suit.

Kowaliga Restaurant is located about 40 minutes from the AuburnOpelika area. It holds a casual, lake-side atmosphere, topped off with incredible food and a restful beach space for playing and enjoying a summer sunset.

Our kids pile in the truck around 5 p.m., we grab a few floats, some towels and good appetites. I bring pajamas for Shep, as he is a champion at playing hard and passing out on the way home.

It’s a nice, easy drive, the kids are chatty the whole way up, eager to jump out and get their bodies wet under the evening sun. We soon arrive to a marina filled with boats and trailers down a windy road.

Arriving at the restaurant, we are greeted by beautiful still waters and the smell of grilled hamburgers and tasty catfish. The kids make a beeline for the beach, they know the drill and don’t waste time making sure mom and dad are following behind.

Isaac follows the kids and parks his tired tail in a chair overlooking the water. This is my cue to head inside and order us a cold beer to celebrate our day.

The wait staff is always on point, I grab paper menus and head the endeavor. “It’s going to go just the way it was intended,” McLeod said.

“I’ve said and said, God is totally in charge of this, and everything has been put right at my feet the moment I needed it.”

Changing Needs for a Growing Event As needs have arisen, community members have risen to the occasion to provide support.

After a few of McLeod’s friends advised her that she needed a committee, many people volunteered to help and became an unofficial committee.

Similarly, those in charge of the event discussed their concerns about reaching their donation targets the day

Bradley Robertson to the bar to check out the selection of local beers. I end up with an order of two TruckStop-Honey’s by Back Forty Beer Co. I give the waitress a heads up that we’ll be playing a bit before ordering, she smiles and opens the screen door for me.

I walk across a long, deep back porch, filled with kids and happy parents taking down their meal. The view of Lake Martin is priceless. I hear my kids in the distance and meet up with Isaac, passing off his beer and giving him a toast to our perfect summer night.

The kids are clueless that we are enjoying ourselves just as much as they are. The calm of a parent on a still, small beach paired with the playfulness of a child. The kids decide to catch a few turtles, often found hanging around the rock wall before Karing-4-Kayla happened. Shortly after voicing these concerns, the organizers learned that they had raised $3,000 before the festival had even started. During the afternoon of the event, McLeod said that she hoped to raise $20,000 for Kayla. While the amount raised at this event won’t cover all of Kayla’s bills, it is a significant amount that will make it easier.

Kayla’s mother, Michelle Gladden, expressed her gratitude toward everyone involved in the event by saying that she was “speechless” about the outpouring of community support and that she “can’t thank everybody enough.”

along the shore of the restaurant. It quickly turns into a comedy show, followed by Shep running into the water saying, “Mom, watch me! I think I’m running on water…”

You’re adorable Shep, but we’ll leave running on water up to Jesus.

We review the menu while the kids play, an endless selection of fine dining options go hand in hand with chicken wings, fish tacos and tasty shrimp. Isaac and I ordered round two on cold beer, and we were soon ordering dinner, to be seated on the porch overlooking the evening sky. Isaac voted for wings, ordering two different varieties.

I’m a sucker for any seafood, choosing the fish tacos, which were cooked to perfection.

The little kids went all burger happy and I was quite proud of

Braxton for ordering fried catfish, of which he gobbled up every bite. The food here is excellent, with plenty of variety and great southern portions. Isaac being the lively daddy that he is, entertained the kids at dinner with a tall tale of truth from his childhood. The echo of laughter into the night is all I need.

Family, around a table, smiles dripping with ketchup.

We wash down dinner with cold sweet tea in mason jars. The kids get one more dip in the water before we head home after dark. There is something about swimming at dusk that kids just love. Maybe it’s the adventure of the night, or maybe it’s the belief they are up way past their bedtime. Either way, getting them out of the water for the

drive home is nearly impossible. They don’t want the fun to be over, and honestly, neither do I. It’s rare to find a pleasant space to relax, watch your kids play and enjoy a fine dinner.

Summer nights aren’t around much longer, take some time soon to travel the windy roads to Kowaliga, an outing meant for every Alabama Bucket list.

Grab your kids and set out on a short drive to paradise, Lake Martin crafted and approved.

Bradley Robertson is a local mother, wife and creative. She’s an Auburn University graduate, loves good food and getting outside with her family. Bradley enjoys feature writing, as well as southern culture and lifestyle writing.

Photo by Bradley Robertson/Opelika Observer

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

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

Eddie Smith CITY PRESIDENT

certificates of deposit and numerous electronic products and services.

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

ICK RD.

FREDER

Tiger Town

Lowe’s

R.

D AY TEW GA

Kroger

Our New Location

Visit us here: www.auburnbank.com MEMBER FDIC

I-85

1851 Frederick Road Opelika

Equal Housing Lender

334-275-9600

pelika Observer O

A16 July 24, 2019

Village Event Center to host second local 'Futral Artifact Show' Aug. 10 Special to the Opelika Observer The second local “Futral Artifact Show,” previously known as the “Dothan Artifact Show,” will be held at Opelika’s Village Event Center Aug. 10 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Multiple venders selling Native American artifacts will be on hand at the event offering a wide range of items

including arrowheads, bowls and spears, along with associated books and educational materials as well as Civil War relic, fossils and other historic pieces.

“I started hosting this show 17 years ago, and I’ve been going to artifact shows like this for 30 years. The last few years, we’ve had well over 1,000 folks that have come through because it’s a one-day

show,” Futral said in a 2018 interview with the Observer.

There will be a flintknapping demonstration during the event, showing Native Americans crafted tools, utensils or weapons from rocks ranging from chert and flint to obsidian and quartz. Refreshments will be provided and all guests are invited to participate in a raffle.

Organizers ask pa-

trons with any questions during the event to seek individuals wearing “Futral Artifact Show” staff T-shirts for assistance. Admission is $2 per person and free for children 12 years old and under.

For more information, call 334-821-5823 or visit www.futralshow. com.

The venue is located at 804 Columbus Parkway.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

‘Sean of the South’ perfoms in front of nearly 150 people Saturday night at George’s Farmers Market in Lafayette

Photos by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer

By Morgan Bryce Editor Sean Dietrich, better known as “Sean of the South” to his fans, performed with his band last Saturday night at George’s Farmer’s Market in Lafayette.

Accompanied by his three band mates, the vegetable stand’s acoustics played perfectly into the stories and songs he shared with the audience throughout the evening. With Dietrich leading the way on his beloved acoustic guitar, the group covered a number of a classics songs including “Ring of Fire” and “La Vie En Rose” as well as hymns “In the Garden” and “Just A Closer Walk With Thee.”

As the sun began its final descent behind the stand, Dietrich started strumming the opening notes of his

334-528-6191

www.eamcfoundation.org

Contact: Amy Thomas Amy.Thomas@eamc.org

final number, “I’ll Fly Away.” In parts of the song, he allowed the crowd of nearly 150 people to take over and sing in a capella style, a goosebumpinducing moment for everyone present.

Following the show, he and his wife Jamie manned the merchandise table, selling copies of his latest book “Stars of Alabama,” which is now available in most major bookstores.

Drive-By Tacos and O Town’s ice cream and Italian ice food trucks set up outside the stand during the event, giving guests the option to eat a filing dinner or cool off in the summer heat.

For more information on Dietrich or to read samples of his work, visit www. seandietrich.com.

George’s Farmer’s Market is located at 1010 County Road 16 in Lafayette.

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

On the Mark

The Lee County Board of Education will hold a special-called board meeting for the ‘Approval of Personnel Recommendations’ July 25 at 5 p.m.

2410 Society Hill Road in Opelika

Kerryon Johnson and Academy Sports + Outdoors surprise 20 children from the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lee County with shopping sprees for school supplies, sports equipment and more

By D. Mark Mitchell

Opelika Dixie Youth League teams conclude seasons

O

pelika Dixie Youth and Dixie Boys completed the 2019 season after the state tournament All-Star teams were eliminated.

The Opelika Minor AllStars (9-10 year olds) finished in the top-5 at the state tournament in Priceville, finishing with a 3-2 record. The 9-10 year-old team earned the trip to state after winning the District 10 tournament with a 4-1 record, outscoring opponents 48-16.

Opelika opened the state tournament with a 6-4 loss to AUM. Coach Kurt Branch, assistants Tommy Prince and Adam Pilate guided the team to three straight wins, 15-0 over Morgan County, 8-7 win over Oxford and 12 -5 over Clanton. Montgomery American slipped by Opelika 9-7, the end of the season for the Minor League all-stars.

Team members were: Logan Childree, Landon Rudd, Troy Tidwell, Cam Pilate, John Sanders, Carter Neese, Will Brandon, Carson Holcey-Billingsley, Tyson Prince, Tre Stone, Jack Branch and Fuller Young.

The Opelika 13U Junior Dixie Boys finished with a 1-2 record at the state tournament last

week in Dothan. The team won their opening game against Troy. The Opelika Junior Dixie Boys lost two straight against Dothan and Fairhope, ending their hopes of advancing to the World Series.

Team members were: Brody Craft, Jayden McKee, Colby Rathel, Davin Blackmon, Gavin Blackmon, Trey White, Carter Dees, Trent Moulton, Jordan Bond, Aaron Standridge and Pate Lovelace. They were led by Joel White and Assistant Coach Kenny Blackmon.

OPELIKA HOST STATE SWIM MEETSPORTSPLEX & AUQUATICS CENTER Opelika’s Sportsplex and Aquatics Center is Hosting the 2019 ARPA State Swim Meet, July 25 to 27. The three-day event is expected to draw more than 1,200 swimmers from the state.

The meet begins Thursday at 9 a.m. with diving at Samford Pool in Auburn. The Opelika Indoor Aquatics Center features eight 25-yard competition lanes and automatic timing by Colorado Timing System with HYTEK interface, the same technology used in the Olympics.

The swim meet will See Sports, page B4

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Last Friday as part of Alabama’s tax-free weekend, Academy Sports + Outdoors and NFL running back Kerryon Johnson made back-to-school shopping easier for 20 children from the Boys & Girls Club of Lee County. Each child was surprised with a $100 gift card to shop with Johnson for backpacks, apparel, footwear, sports equipment and more for the upcoming school year.

Seven individuals receive ‘Making a Difference Awards’ at AHSAA Championship Coaches Banquet last week

Photo by AHSAA photo by Tim Ballentine Pictured are the AHSAA 2019 Making a Difference Award Recipients. Front row, from left: D. Mark Mitchell, Opelika radio personality; Lisa Bates, Sand Rock High School and John Hardin, Hackleburg High School. Back row: Ken Storie, Jefferson County Schools; Chris Goodman, Alabama Christian Academy; Rush Holcomb, Hamilton High School and Willie Wright, Pike County High School.

pelika Observer O

B2 July 24, 2019

National champion Auburn equestrian Mayor Gary Fuller, City Council honors team receives new truck from Alfa Special to the Opelika Observer Six national championships attest to the Auburn University Equestrian Team’s mastery of horsepower. Today, Equestrian Coach Greg Williams accepted the reins of an extra 445 horses in the form of a 2019 Duramax Diesel Chevrolet Silverado 2500, donated by the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Companies.

"This truck is an amazing asset for us," Williams said.

"This is going to be a very nice vehicle to use when accepting donated horses or for safely transporting horses to the Auburn

University College of Veterinary Medicine. Plus, we can use it to pick up feed and move laundry for the horses from the equipment room to the barn. It looks so nice, as well. It's like a marketing piece for our sport. I couldn't be happier."

The gift celebrates the Tigers’ 2019 national championship and its undefeated season, the first recorded since the sport was accepted by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in 1998.

The 2018-19 team included 15 seniors who completed their collegiate athletic careers with a 61-10 record, two South-

eastern Conference championships, and three national championships in 2019, 2018 and 2016.

"Under Coach Williams’ leadership, Auburn's equestrian program truly demonstrates a championship culture, resulting in consistent excellence in competition, the classroom and the community," Auburn Director of Athletics Allen Greene said.

"We deeply appreciate the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa for their extraordinary generosity."

Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance President Jimmy Parnell said he is proud of Auburn Equestrian’s contin-

ued national success in ag-related athletics.

“It’s inspiring to see how committed these young women are to this sport, and it’s a pleasure to support the team with this truck donation,” said Parnell, who earned his degree in agricultural business and economics from Auburn. “They’ve definitely gotten a lot of people excited, and that’s a good thing for the entire agricultural community in the state.”

According to a recent study from Auburn, the equine industry adds more than $2 billion into Alabama’s economy and provides about 24,000 jobs.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer The Auburn University Equestrian Team received a 2019 Chevy Silverado from the Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Companies during a press conference July 15 at the Equine Center. From left to right are College of Agriculture Animal Sciences Department Head Wayne Greene, Federation and Alfa President Jimmy Parnell, Equestrian Coach Greg Williams, Athletics Director Allen Greene and College of Agriculture Dean Dr. Paul Patterson.

2019 National Quiz Bowl Champions from OMS last week

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Pictured back row left to right: Mayor Gary Fuller, Quiz-Bowl Advisor Corey Harris, OMS Prinicpal Keith York. Front row: Taylor Morgan, Marley Golden, Zavier Dowdell and Tyler Ellis. Not pictured is Zane Sexton.

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B3 July 24, 2019

Influences of Terrain | Hambidge Center

ew drops cling to the spider’s web.

Moss carpets stones along the riverbed.

Leaves of green and brown lay upside down. I walk upon the pebbled paths.

The clouds linger low in the valley between Clayton and Rabun.

Newly staked rows of ripening tomatoes remind one that there are still many hot days of summer ahead. Yet, the crisp balmy air chills the elevating atmosphere.

The road winds and bends for miles through mountainous creases. A gravel drive off of Betty’s Creek Road leads the voyager to the Hambidge Center, an artisan’s sanctuary nestled within the dense forest.

Cobblestone structures rise from hilly North Georgia terrain. Roughhewn

By Sarah West logs comprise other primitive domains.

The gallery screen door clatters, and the floors speak with an amiable creak. The manmade elements seem to harmonize with the poetry of the nearby stream. Handcrafted basketry, spun textile and sculpture incarnate familiar artifacts predating the modern age.

Odes to other eras forge pathways to new understanding.

Found objects and art

reveal unity. An artist in residence works diligently.

She graciously describes her current project and welcomes shared collaboration from visitors amid her quilting. The magnetism of this retreat is evident in the artist’s work and energy.

Nestled here in this woodland, pioneering designs pay homage to heirloom forbearers in a collaborative exhibition illustrating a sustainable relationship established between artisans in residence and the indelible influences of the Appalachian summer landscape. Visit www.hambidge.org for additional information on programs, involvements, and weekly events.

Sarah West serves the Opelika Observer as a contributing columnist, with writ-

ten works of Cultural Arts relevance and prose. She is a preservation, and conservation advocate, activist, and visual artist of American Illustration with a focus on Regional Narrative Painting.

She is founder of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts, Smiths Station, Alabama’s premier fine arts destination.

She is the appointed Official Artist to the

City of Smiths Station, a Lee County syndicated columnist, the director of her art center’s Cultural Arts Outreach Initiative which partners with local schools to make the arts accessible to all. She also serves a chief curator to the City of Smiths Station, City Hall Art Galleries. She is a founding member of the Smith Station Historic Commission.

She is a member of the Women’s Philan-

thropy Board- Cary Center, Auburn University College of Human Science. She is an elected member of the Society of Illustrators- NYC. She mentors art students of every age through weekly classes at her studio located in the heart of Smiths Station, Alabama. To learn more about her work and activism visit, www.thesarahwestgalleryoffineart. com.

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

Helpful tips for a child’s emotional support

Beth Pinyerd The Classroom Observer

G

od created our brains with so much complexity. As an early childhood educator, I love to observe and take in the interactions between parents and their babies. What a gift and responsibility we have with this precious life God has given us.

Our brains are developed to have logic, language and communication skills, along with emotions which directly affect how a child relates to other people in social adjustment, focusing as they learn new skills, self-

control and being able to feel contentment or express sadness or joy.

Early childhood from birth to age 10 is such an important time for emotional development for children.

Infants scream, cry and express themselves with different facial displays and expressions in order to convey their feelings. Bonding begins the first few months for infants in forming an attachment to their primary caregiver.

Emotional stimulation in rocking, cuddling, nurturing with

love and affection, lullabies, interacting or responding to an infant’s smiles and laughter build a strong bond with a young child.

I love to hear young children put words to their emotions. You know when they are angry, discouraged, afraid or happy. As parents and teachers, we have to be attentive to children’s inner feelings. We have to truly understand their moods, what is causing their emotional state by cues and clues, then responding in such a way that stimulates good emotional health and growth. For example, when a family is going through stressful times like moving to a new home, sickness in the family and loss, it is so important for a baby or young child to receive a lot more time, attention and love.

This extra measure of emotional support gives your child more security and a sense of peace during stressful times.

Young children react

to their caregivers’ emotions. They pay close attention to their caregivers’ facial and body expressions and tone of voice. As a children’s teacher, I realize that children coming through my classroom door have many emotions, but I know that it is important for me as a teacher to leave any stressful emotions at home, outside of my classroom when teaching young children.

Overall, there is no standard template of how we are made emotionally. We come into this world as individuals. Some children come into this world calm and cheerful most of the time; another child may be a little more fussy, needing more focused attention; some children are very mild with their emotions while others are very excited and expressive with their emotions.

Children within the same family are different. In teaching siblings from the same family, moms and dads will share with me

the differences from one to another. The emotional makeup can be quite different in families, which is how God makes us.

Another very important tip for good emotional development is time spent together.

As I have mentioned in previous Classroom Observer columns, time spent with your children spells love.

It’s not about material things, elaborate gifts or adventures you give a child, it’s about the focused attention and a parent gives a child that fills their emotional tank.

Physical touch is crucial for healthy emotional development. Truly, pats and hugs are needed to fill up a child’s emotional tank of needs.

As an early childhood teacher, I love to see the magic of encouragement in young children’s lives.

Smiles, winks, positive words, listening and talking to children, cheering and appreciating a child for who they are and their efforts is so important.

1 OUT OF 10 ELDERLY PERSONS AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES ARE BEING: Abused, Neglected or Exploited If you suspect this is happening to someone you know, please report it to Adult Protective Services by contacting your local DHR office or calling the

ADULT ABUSE HOTLINE at 1-800-458-7214

HELP STOP THE ABUSE

IF YOU SEE IT, REPORT IT

Thereʼs no excuse for

ELDER ABUSE

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

CALL THIS NEWSPAPER’S AD DEPARTMENT TO PLACE YOUR AD

334-749-8003 Or call 1-800-264-7043

Pinyerd has taught young children in the early childhood classroom for 34 years as well as outreaching to the elderly in intergenerational settings. She has taught and outreached in the schools in Opelika and Baldwin County. She holds a master’s degree in early childhood education as well as a bachelor’s degree in family and child development both from Auburn University. Her husband is the late Carl Pinyerd and she has one son, Gus Pinyerd who has taught her so much about learning.

Classroom Observer is here to serve the community in sharing the wonderful teaching programs in our local public schools, private schools, and homeschools. The column is provided to enrich the education of our children, youth, and families. Classroom Observer welcomes educational news, school news, pictures, and events by e-mailing her at donnapinyerd@ charter.net

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B4 July 24, 2019

Auburn University at Montgomery finalizes partnership with Southern Union State Community College last week Special to the Opelika Observer A newly finalized partnership between Auburn University at Montgomery and Southern Union State Community College will create scholarship opportunities for transfer students and enable them to complete bachelor’s degrees through concurrent enrollment.

The partnership took effect last week after Auburn University at Montgomery Chancellor Carl A. Stockton and Southern Union President Todd Shackett signed the agreement.

“This partnership creates a tremendous opportunity for our students to be successful in their higher education,” Shackett said. “Our partnership with AUM is very important to Southern Union. This serves as an excellent example of the two institutions working together, keeping student success as a top priority.”

Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) will offer an unlimited number of transfer scholarships for Southern Union students who complete their associate in arts or associate in science degrees and earn admittance to AUM by May 1 each year. Transfer students with a cumulative grade

Sports,

from B1 feature children from 6U to 18U and will feature all forms of competitive swimming. The attending swimmers qualified for the state meet at their respective District swim meet. Opelika will be represented by 43 swimmers that are a part of the Opelika swim team.

The event brings tour-

point average of 3.5 or higher will receive $2,500 per year, while students with a GPA between 3.0 and 3.49 will receive $1,000 per year.

AUM will also award one Presidential Scholarship each year to a Southern Union transfer student with a GPA of at least 3.5. The scholarship will cover full tuition and fees.

“We are delighted to partner with Southern Union State Community College, which has a proud tradition of serving students from

East Alabama,” Stockton said. “This agreement creates a seamless experience through concurrent admission for students transferring to Auburn University at Montgomery and offers potential cost savings through a variety of scholarship opportunities. We look forward to welcoming more Southern Union graduates as members of the ‘Warhawk Nation.’”

The partnership agreement provides for a “holistic” admissions process that begins with students’ enrollment at Southern

Union and continues through their graduation from AUM. Academic advisors from both institutions will work collaboratively to provide ongoing academic advising for Southern Union students who intend to transfer to AUM. Visits by Auburn University at Montgomery academic advisors to Southern Union will also help incoming students familiarize themselves with the resources offered

by AUM, including its Career Development Center, Learning Center and Warhawk Academic

Success Center (WASC).

AUM will guarantee admission to Southern Union students in good standing who have completed up to 64 credit hours, earned a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 and the same minimum GPA in core curriculum, and earned “C” or higher in English Composition I and Composition II courses. Students transferring to AUM with 24 or more college credits and a GPA of 2.2 or less will be required to take AUM’s “UNIV 1000:

Strategies for Success” course. The agreement also provides for “reverse transfer,” providing a pathway for students who transferred to AUM before completing an associate’s degrees to complete the process.

The new partnership also provides reciprocal library privileges for students, faculty and staff, as well as admission to AUM athletic events and AUM Wellness Center access for Southern Union students.

Established in 1967, Auburn University at Montgomery is a fouryear regional institution accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Located in Alabama’s vibrant state capital, AUM offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate-level degree programs and certifications. Learn more AUM Transfer Scholarships at aum.edu/transfer.

Southern Union State Community College is a public, open admission two-year college and a member of the Alabama Community College System. The college serves more than 5,000 students each semester through its campuses in Opelika, Valley and Wadley.

Learn more at suscc.edu.

ism dollars and people to Opelika and surrounding areas. The AuburnOpelika Tourism Bureau calculated from lodging, transportation, retail, food and beverage, recreation and business services that the event helped generated nearly $2 million in economic impact last year, with even larger numbers expected in 2019.

According to Opelika Parks and Recreation’s Public Relations Director Laura Leigh Chesser, the entire facility will

have an unusually large amount of people on its campus. She urges patrons to come prior to 8 a.m. or after 5 p.m. on Friday. The schedule will be different during the weekend.

AHSAA- MAXPREPS FORM PARTNERSHIP The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) and MaxPreps announced a new partnership last week.

MaxPreps and the AHSAA “will offer a publishing platform across

desktop, table and mobile that will streamline the process of managing sports information from its member schools. The partnership enables all box score information published on Maxpreps. com to be automatically provided to the AHSAA for managing use,” said AHSAA Communications Director Ron Ingram.

The heads of both the AHSAA and MaxPreps shared their excitement for the news.

“This partnership with MaxPreps will be a big plus for our member schools. The state of the art services they can provide our schools when integrated with c2c schools will make MaxPreps the go-to source for high school sports stats as well as information regarding the NFHS Network,”

said AHSAA Executive Director Steve Savarese.

“We are very excited for our member schools.”

MaxPreps president and founder Andy Beal said that “Alabama is one of the top state in the country for high school sports, and we are excited to partner with the AHSAA to share accomplishments of its student-athletes nationally.”

Beginning in the 2019-20 school year, the AHSAA will recommend coaches use the MaxPreps platform to submit statistics after each game to accurately track teams and studentathlete accomplishment’s and also use the app for communication tool. This will benefit the fans, media, players and anyone interested in a particular school.

ON THE MARK-

RADIO 910-1310 AM You can keep up with local sports by listening to “On the Mark” radio show from 6 to 9 a.m. weekdays on 910 AM, online at foxsportsthegame.com or by searching “On the Mark” on the iHeartRadio app.

Jeff Sasser and I host the show along with guest host Dan Washburn, Larry Gore, Derek Lee, James Cooper, Doug Barfield, Jeff Meyers and others. We talk to all the area coaches and speak with Coach Pat Dye on Mondays at 7:10 a.m. and Coach Gene Stallings each Thursday at 7:05 a.m. Fans can call the show at 334745-5525.

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

Photo special to the Opelika Observer AUM Chancellor Carl Stockton and SUSCC President Todd Shackett officially finalized a concurrent enrollment agreement between the two institutions on Monday.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Front row left to right: Logan Childree, Landon Rudd, Troy Tidwell, Cam Pilate, John Sanders and Carter Neese. Middle row left to right: Will Brandon, Carson Holcey-Billingsley, Tyson Prince, Tre Stone, Jack Branch and Fuller Young. Back row left to right: Assistants Tommy Prince, Adam Pilate and Head Coach Kurt Branch.

Bee on Purpose for Literacy 16TH ANNUAL THE GREAT

Grown-Up Spelling Bee August 15, 2019

5:00 – 9:00 PM Auburn Alumni Center 317 S College Street Auburn, AL

Door prizes, delicious hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and fun!

Tickets $40 Proceeds Benefit

For Team Sponsorship, Program Ads & Tickets, call 334-705-0001 or visit www.leecountyliteracy.org/spelling-bee

A United Way Agency

pelika Observer O

B6 July 24, 2019

Opioid Training Institute coming to Auburn-Opelika area on July 30 Special to the Opelika Observer

The Opioid Training Institute, a collaborative program offered by the Auburn University Harrison School of Pharmacy and the Alabama Department of Mental Health, will conduct a training session on July 30 in the Auburn-Opelika area.

The session is offered at no cost to attendees and is targeted toward leaders in the community who would like to learn more about fighting the opioid epidemic.

Targeted for community members and leaders, the program will be held at the Marriott Grand National at 3700 Robert Trent Jones Trail in Opelika from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Walk-up attendees will be accepted, but participants are encouraged to pre-register by visiting www.AlabamaOTI.org.

“We know that many factors led to Alabama’s unfortunate position as a leader in opioid use in the United States. Accordingly, we know that a variety of strategies are necessary to address the opioid problem in Alabama,” said Harrison School of Pharmacy Associate Pro-

fessor Dr. Brent Fox. “The Opioid Training Institute will allow us to convene a diverse group of experiences, expertise, and perspectives to advance the fight against opioids in our state.”

Alabama is one of the most affected states in the country when it comes to the Opioid Crisis. In 2017, there were 422 overdose deaths involving either prescription or illicit drugs in the state, an average of more than one per day.

To battle such a crisis, it requires a collaborative and interprofessional effort. With that in mind, the Harrison School of Pharmacy (HSOP) and the Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) partnered to create the Opioid Training Institute (OTI).

The workshop is targeted to community members and leaders including, but not limited to, educators, social workers, guidance counselors, behavioral health specialists, counselors, faith-based community leaders, state and local leaders and law enforcement.

“Due to positions in their communities, community leaders can play a pivotal role in addressing

the opioid crisis by using strategies that are relevant to the local community,” Fox said. “The OTI will focus on equipping community leaders with practical information they can use in their local communities.”

The opioid epidemic is one that knows no neighborhood, class, or age and impacts every sector of the state, including health care, education, business and local government.

Opioids are a class of drugs that includes heroin as well as prescription pain relievers such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine and fentanyl.

These drugs work by binding to the body’s opioid receptors in the reward center of the brain, diminishing pain as well as producing feelings of relaxation and euphoria.

“Community leaders can expect to expand their knowledge of the opioid crisis. They will also learn how to identify potential situations of drug abuse and the role of opioid reversal agents,” Fox said. “While prevention is critical to reversing the opioid trend in Alabama, treatment of those with substance use disorder is just as important. Attend-

ees will learn about treatment options and other resources to support those with substance abuse problems.”

Because of the variety of uses, one could come into contact with opioids from street drugs to prescription drugs. The problem is one that affects all socio-economic status.

It is for this reason that such a broad spectrum of people, from health care to law enforcement to leaders in the community, are needed to fight the problem.

“Opioid use disorder impacts those from the teen years to the older population in our state. In 2017, more than 47,000 Americans died of opioid overdoses and in Alabama we see the need for education to reach everyone that may have the power to evoke change for our communities,” said Harrison School of Pharmacy Assistant Dean Dr. Karen Marlowe. “Understanding the risk factors for opioid use disorder and overdose in your school, community, place of worship may help someone to connect with the appropriate resources in their community. We also hope to start more conversations across

Opelika Sportsplex to host state swim meet July 25-27

different professions to share information about programs that already exist in communities across the state.”

All sessions are free and pre-registration is preferred. Speakers at the events include those from health care, law enforcement, government agencies and others. For health care professionals, continuing education credit is available.

“Mental health is an important piece in the fight against the opioid crisis and partnering with the Alabama Department of Mental Health allows us to combine our areas of expertise and have a greater reach in the state of Alabama,” said Harrison School of Pharmacy Associate Clinical Professor Dr. Haley Phillippe. “We

are very thankful for the opportunity to work with ADMH.” For more information and registration, visit AlabamaOTI.org.

About the Harrison School of Pharmacy Auburn University's Harrison School of Pharmacy is ranked among the top-20 percent of all pharmacy schools in the United States, according to U.S. News & World Report. The school’s commitment to world-class scholarship and interdisciplinary research speaks to Auburn’s overarching Carnegie R1 designation that places Auburn among the top 100 doctoral research universities in the nation. For more information, call 334-844-8348 or visit pharmacy.auburn. edu.

Trinity United Methodist Day Out Program celebrates summer; visits Krispy Kreme doughnuts

Aquatics Center and basketball gym to be closed during the event Special to the Opelika Observer The Opelika SportsPlex and Aquatics Center is hosting the Alabama Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA) State Swimming and Diving Championship on July 25 to 27, a three-day event that will feature more than 1,300 of the state’s top swimmers.

The swim meet will begin Thursday at 9 a.m. with a dive meet at Samford Pool in Auburn.

Friday and Saturday’s events will be held at the Opelika Sportsplex and Aquatics Center, utilizing the center’s 25-yard indoor pool and eight short-course competition lanes. Automatic timing will be provided by Colorado Timing System with HYTEK interface, the same technology used at the Olympic Team Trials.

The swim meet offers divisions from 6U to 18U and includes all of the competitive swimming styles including freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, individual medley and relays.

All the attending swimmers must compete at the district level in order to qualify to swim at state. The Opelika SportsPlex hosted the District V Swim Meet

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Kindergarten through second-grade students from Mrs. Holloway's and Mrs. Pinyerd's classes in Trinity United Methodist Church Children's Day Out Program celebrated the summer with fun themes including the jungle, camping, Wild West and the good old summertime.

The class has enjoyed field trips to Chick-fil-A, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, story time at the Lewis Cooper Library, O-Town Ice Cream, SportsPlex Splash Park, Cyber Zone and movies. Pictured above are the students taking a tour of Krispy Kreme where they enjoyed some delicious doughnuts.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer July 14 and 15 and had more than 300 swimmers representing seven cities.

Of Opelika’s 53 athletes that competed in district, 43 will advance to the state championship. Opelika placed third overall, winning 23 of 86 events.

“We had a great district meet,” said Head Swim Coach Tyler McGill.

“We had over 100 best times, and we are looking forward to swimming fast at state.”

According to SportsPlex Special Events Coordinator Mandy Johnson, the total

number of swimmers along with their families could create an influx of more than 5,000 people in Opelika during the state championship.

The last time Opelika hosted this event was 2017. According to calculations from the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau, revenue from lodging, transportation, retail, food and beverage, recreation and business services generated more than $1.9 million in economic impact that year.

Admission to the swim meet is free to the public,

but there will be a $5 charge for swim meet parking. On-site food vendors will provide food and concessions throughout the meet. Space will also be provided for outdoor tents and tailgating.

Opelika Sportsplex members and guests are asked to note that because of the swim meet, the Aquatics Center and Basketball Gym will be closed Thursday through Saturday and all facility activities will be cancelled those three days.

For more information, 334-705-5560.

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, July 24, 2019

2020 U.S. Senate Race Inside the Statehouse

T

he long hot summer has brought some crystallization to the 2020 U.S. Senate race. This seat is the one held by Sen. Jeff Sessions for almost two decades. He unwittingly made a strange and probably very regrettable decision to join President Donald J. Trump’s administration as Attorney General. Very few U.S. Senators with 20 years seniority would leave their permanent seats in the illustrious, powerful and elite United States Senate for a temporary four year at best tenure in a tumultuous and transient cabinet post.

Trump is tempestuous at the least and still likes to think of himself as the host of his TV reality show “The Apprentice,” who famously says, “You’re fired!” Trump recently tweeted that Sessions’ appointment as attorney general was the most regrettable appointment that he has made.

You can more than likely ascertain that Sessions feels the same way about his decision to leave his safe senate seat for a shot as Trump’s attorney general. However, you could safely bet that the reserved, squeaky clean, “Dudley-Do-Right Eagle Scout” Sessions will not do any tweeting or betting on anything, much

By Steve Flowers less his Trump controversy.

Therefore, the biggest question regarding the 2020 Senate race in the Heart of Dixie is would Sessions run to get his seat back? The answer is that he considered it. He was encouraged to run by the Washington Republican establishment, including Mitch McConnell. However, he has decided that at 72 he will not seek his seat.

My thoughts are that he could have and probably would have won.

However, his departure from the race makes for some good theater.

It is assumed that the winner of next year’s March 3 GOP Primary will win the six-year Senate term. Alabama is one of, if not the most Republican states in America. With it being a presidential election year, Alabama will probably vote 65 to 35 for Trump. The GOP senate candidate can expect to

mirror that landslide or at least win by a 60 to 40 margin, with maybe one exception.

That exception would be if Judge Roy Moore, for some reason were to be the Republican nominee, then that would give the Democrat, probably Sen. Doug Jones, a possible opening.

Moore begins the race with overwhelmingly negative name identification. He has 2-to-1 negative to positive polling numbers. Those numbers are not going to improve. Believe you me, the National Republican, McConnell, establishment money is going to pour in here to run negative ads against old Moore to make sure he is not the GOP standard bearer in the fall 2020. When they get through with him, his horse Sassy will even have negative numbers.

My guess is that Moore’s best days are behind him and that he will not be the GOP nominee.

However, he still has a hard core of support that will stay with him come hell or high water. He will probably get 18% of the primary vote and that will place him in a strong third place finish.

My early prediction is

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

‘BackTheBadge Benefit & Shopping Expo’ held last Friday night Special to the Opelika Observer BacktheBadge Lee County organized and held a benefit expo last Friday night at Opelika’s Village Event Center.

An avid supporter of local law enforcement, BacktheBadge Director Vickie McLeroy said the purpose of the event was to “build a stronger bond between the community and our local law enforcement.”

Activities during the event included music and dancing with officers for children, bake sale, door prize giveaway and silent auction.

Turn to B10 for more photos from the event.

Opelika City Council approves nearly $400,000 in change orders for the new Municipal Court building; honors OPD’s Lt. Ben Blackburn for achievements

See Flowers, page B13

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

By Michelle Key Publisher During last week’s Opelika City Council meeting, the council voted to approved a series of change orders regarding the work being done on the new Opelika Police Department and Municipal Court building in order to modify the courtroom for use as a

meeting place for the city council and the planning commission.

The changes total nearly $400,000 and are broken down as listed below: • Seay, Seay & Litchfield contract $21,500.44 • Robins & Morton contract - $28,531.74 • Freeman & Associates contract - $107, 904

• Contractor Steel Supply Company, Inc. contract - $8,274 • Bradley Plumbing & Heating, Inc. contract - $7,448.03 • Auburn Electric Company, Inc. contract - $225,043 Also during the meeting, Mayor Gary Fuller and the council members recongized See Council, page B8

B8 July 24, 2019

pelika O Observer

Local service organizations hold meetings last week Dr. Neil Schaffner speaks Alabama Lions District Gov. Bubba to Opelika Kiwanis Club Bingham visits Opelika group Club members learn about health issues related to diabetes

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Alabama Lions District Gov. Bubba Bingham was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club where he gave updates on current and future District plans. He was introduced by Lion Glenn Stokes, left.

Photos special to the Opelika Observer Dr. Neil Schaffner, an endocrinologist with East Alabama Medical Center who specializes in diabetes, was the speaker at the weekly Kiwanis meeting. He spoke about health related issues. Pictured above are Dr. Schaffner, Joanne Camp and Club President Bob Harris.

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

Council,

from B7

and honored Opelika Police Lt. Ben Blackburn for his completion of training with the FBI in Quantico, Virginia.

“We couldn’t be more proud of him and his family. It is a tremendous sacrifice for him to be away from them for ten weeks,” Opelika Police Chief John McEachern said.

“It is a lot of classroom and physical training. We knew when we sent Ben up there that he would represent us well.

We couldn’t be more proud.”

The council also presented gifts to the 2019 Opelika Middle School Quiz Bowl Team, recognizing their recent national championship win in Orlando.

In other business, the council: - received the city’s financial summary for June 2019 and the monthly building reports - held public hearings and then voted to approved weed abatement assessments for the following properties: • 20 Jeter Ave. $203.47

• 311 S 3Rd St. $107.39 • 514 Old Columbus Rd. - $605.59 • 803 E Towne Lake Circle - $367.67 • 810 Williamson Ave. - $163.34 - held a public hearing and then voted to approved a resolution on the vacating of the right-of-way of southeastern portion of Frederick Road and North Frederick Avenue.

- held a public hearing and introduced a request regarding the rezoning of 47.3 Acres at 1300 Block Fox Run Parkway - approved a contract with Top Notch Cleaning for for custodial services. The bid for the first, second and third year is $2,540 per month and the amount to be charged for additional services not included in the bid is $19 per hour - approved a contract with AAA General Contractors, Inc for the removal of dead, dying or dangerous trees, stumps & tree pruning for an amount of $83,000 for specified trees and approximately $67,000 for other miscellaneous trees within the city based on unit prices - approved the purchase of a commercial

& Flea Mall

VINTAGE LUGGAGE SET YOU WON’T BELIEV WHAT JUEST CAME IN!

334-745-3221 • ANGELSANTIQUEANDFLEAMALL.COM 900 COLUMBUS PKWY, OPELIKA 36801 OPEN EVERYDAY 10-7 • SUN 1-5

washer and dryer for turnout gear for the Opelika Fire Department for an amount not to exceed $17,540.05 - approved the purchase of furniture for the new municipal court room in the amount of $48,667.56 - approved a request from ATT for a special use permit for a cell tower at 2000 Steel St. and at 2404 Frederick Road - approved an agreement for professional services for Auburn University game day security - approved a special appropriation to East Alabama Community Ballet for $1,000 - approved a special appropriation to the Dream Day Foundation to support 2nd Annual Black Male Summit for $2,500 - approved a proposal from OSMOSE for Pole Attachment Count for Opelika Power Services - approved a special appropriation to The Rain Group for the ‘Love U Love U’ event for $1,000 - approved a proposal and agreement for pavement consulting services for an amount not to exceed $24,343.50 - voted to reapprove an ordinance to amend City Code of Ordinances, Section 5.5 307(b) because of a typographical error in the ordinance that was approved and passed during the July 2 meeting.

The Opelika City Council meets on the first and third Tuesday nights of every month at 7 p.m. Meetings are held in the council chambers at City Hall which is located at 204 S. 7th St. in downtown Opelika.

Citizens are encouraged to attend the public meetings and are invited to address the council during the citizen’s communication portion of every meeting.

The next meeting will be held on Aug. 7.

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B9 July 24, 2019

Congressman Mike Rogers issues statements on border bill and minimum wage bill; visits with Davidson family Special to the Opelika Observer Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Ala.), House Homeland Security Committee ranking member, delivered a statement on H.R. 22022, a hyperpartisan border bill that would undermine U.S. security and do nothing to address the underlying causes of the border crisis.

“Mr. Chairman, this bill makes me fear for the future of our Nation.

Through extrajudicial investigations, administrative measures meant to decay the Department’s ability to hire law enforcement officers, attempts to malign the men and women at the Department, additional paperwork requirements so burdensome for routine encounters that the Department will not be able to enforce our laws, and banning an agreement with Mexico to facilitate the orderly processing of people at the border, it is intellectually dishonest for the left to deny that they are united around an open borders agenda if they move this bill.

Most of the members here don’t even know what’s in this bill because four different variations were circulated to staff just yesterday. This product is a rush-job to say the least.

This bill would diminish the role of Congress and this very committee to conduct oversight over the Department of Homeland Security and would undermine the checks and balances system that defines the United States government.

By copying the exact construction and wording that created the 9/11 Commission, this bill equates the heinous terrorist attacks that sparked the founding the Department with the Trump Administration’s handling of the migrant crisis at the southwest border, that was perpetuated by the Democrat majority’s inability to fund the Department. It creates a $3 million Commission made up of a majority of liberal Democrat lawmakers to investigate the Administration, with the authority to issue subpoenas, public hearings, and unlimited document produc-

tion requests, wasting taxpayer dollars in an effort to vilify the president. They didn’t find anything they could use in the Mueller report, so now they’re trying something new. Welcome to the circus, folks The bill creates a new office within the Department that would duplicate authorities that already exist and give one person with no specific qualifications the authority to provide immigration relief and other redress to illegal immigrants outside the bounds of our laws.

The bill before us targets constituents’ first amendment rights by precluding any border community stakeholder from serving on an advisory committee meant for border community stakeholders IF they support the current president.

This bill maligns the brave men and women who protect the homeland on the front lines every day and mandates duplicative training for ICE and CBP officers to now be carried out by attorneys outside the Department? What is the goal here? To

— SMALL CHANGE —

BIG

Photo special to the Opelika Observer The Davidsons of Auburn visited with Rep. Mike Rogers today during his “Mornings with Mike” event. Pictured left to right are Patrick, Rogers and Kelly.

fill the pockets of left-wing immigration group attorneys?

Instead of attacking the Department, we should be focusing on the criminal organizations who lure vulnerable people on the dangerous trip to our border who don’t care about their well-being or already deteriorating health when they get to or border, but just turning a profit.

The bill terminates an international agreement with Mexico to allow for the orderly processing of the influx of migrants at our southwest border that prevents overcrowding of already overcrowded facilities.

Are Democrats asking for more people to be put into facilities that are not built to hold them?

This bill would allow any member of Congress or staffer to pop into a CBP facility unannounced, for any reason, without any cause. This would

be extremely intrusive and obstructive to an already overwhelmed agency that is trying to keep the lights on at the border with no help from Congress to fix the loopholes that have led to this crisis.

My responsibility as a member of Congress is to oppose this bill, and I hope there are courageous members on the other side of the aisle who will see this bill for what it is – an affront on our rule of law – and vote this down with me.

This bill would not only make our country less safe, but directly put it at risk.”

H.R. 582, the Raise the Wage Act Rogers made the following statement last week on his strong opposition to H.R. 582, the Raise the Wage Act. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) recently released a report on the harmful effects this bill would have on hardwork-

ing families, small businesses and our economy.

“The American economy is booming and unemployment is at an almost 50 year low. Since President Trump was elected, close to six million jobs have been created. According to the CBO report, this bill would destroy almost four million jobs – that’s like filling to capacity both JordanHare and BryantDenney 20 times and having Nancy Pelosi fire all those folks.

“I am completely opposed to this legislation and wish House Democrats would pay attention to how detrimental this would be for East Alabama and America,” Rogers added.

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

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A public forum about violence in our community—its causes, consequences, and what we can do to stop it.

This event is free and open to the public. The conversation will be moderated by staff from the David Mathews Center for Civic Life, a nonpartisan Alabama nonprofit dedicated to strengthening civic life across the state.

WHEN

JULY 27TH, 2019

WHERE

Lee County Meeting Center

WHO

This public event is being offered through a partnership between the David Mathews Center for Civic Life, the Opelika City Council, and the Opelika Commission on Crime and Violence. The purpose of the event is to provide a safe and respectful environment for Opelika citizens to engage each other deliberatively in order to find solutions to the problem of violence in our community.

10AM - NOON

205 S. 10th St. Opelika, AL 36801

Questions? Contact Leigh Krehling, Opelika Community Relations Officer at lkrehling@opelika-al.gov or 334-705-5136.

B10 July 24, 2019

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Benefit, from B7

Photos by Irving Blanco/For the Opelika Observer

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

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B11 July 24, 2019

LEGALS IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of William Ray Buechner, Jr.,Deceased Case Number:2019-B-052 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration have been granted to Sara G. Buechner as Administrator of the Estate of William Ray Buechner, Jr. deceased, on the 2nd day of July, 2019 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate.

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.

Csara G. Buechner Personal Representative of the Estate of William Ray Buechner, Jr. Legal Run 7/10/19, 7/17/19 & 7/24/19

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF TOMMY LEE NOLIN, Deceased PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Charlotte Croom Nolin on the 17th day of June, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

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

Charlotte Croom Nolin Legal Run 07/10/19, 07/17/19 & 07/24/19

IN THE PORBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO: 2019-B-076

IN RE: The Estate of Marshall Lynn Grimes, Deceased March 3, 2019 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration have been granted to RHONDA MICHELLE GLADDEN, as Administratix of the Estate of Marshall Lynn Grimes deceased, on the 3rd day of July, 2019, 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.

RHONDA MICHELLE GLADDEN Administratix Estate of Marshall Lynn Gladden, deceased Legal Run 07/17, 07/24 & 07/31/19

MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE Default having been made in the payment of the indebtedness secured by that certain Mortgage executed by Mary Carlton Wilson-Hinson, a married woman (“Mortgagor”), in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for SouthPoint Bank (the “Mortgagee”), dated February 21, 2018, and recorded on February 22, 2018, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama in Mortgage Book 4369, Page 550 (the “Mortgage”).

Said default continuing, notice is hereby given that the Mortgagee will, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in the Mortgage, offer for sale at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash during the legal hours of sale on August 14, 2019, at the main entrance to the Courthouse of Lee County, Alabama, the following described Real Property situated in Lee County, Alabama (“Real Property”), to wit: Lots 11 and

12 Sunset Valley Subdivision, according to and as shown by that certain map or plat thereof of record in Town Plat Book 5, at Page 49, in Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.

The Real Property and improvements will be sold “as is, where is” and subject to any rights of redemption existing under federal law, the laws of the State of Alabama or otherwise.

The sale is subject to ad valorem taxes.

The sale is subject to any easements, encumbrances or other matters of record which take priority over the Mortgage.

Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process.

An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process.

This sale is made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by said Mortgage, as well as the expenses of foreclosure. The Mortgagee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the Real Property and, if it is the successful bidder, to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the Real Property. This sale is subject to postponement or cancellation.

SouthPoint Bank Owner of Said Indebtedness MICHAEL B. ODOM McGLINCHEY STAFFORD PLLC 505 North 20 th Street, Suite 800 Birmingham, AL 35203 Telephone: (205) 725-6400 Attorney for Mortgagee Legal Run 7/17/19, 7/24/19 & 7/31/19

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALA-

BAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JESSIE L. PINK GUARDIAN/CONSERVATOR’S SETTLEMENT NOTICE This day came Edward B. Raymon, as Guardian / Conservator of the estate of Jessie L. Pink, an incapacitated individual, and filed his account, vouchers, evidence and statements for partial settlement of said Conservatorship estate.

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the 13th day of August, 2019, at 9:00 a.m., is appointed as the day on which to make such settlement, in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, at which time all persons interested can appear and contest the said Settlement if they think prosper.

WITNESS my hand this 15th day of July, 2019.

JUDGE OF PROBATE Legal Run 7/17/19, 7/24/19 & 7/31/19

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA ROSALYN ROSENBLUM, Plaintiff, v. CASE NO.: CV2019-900134 Parcels of Real Property described as: Lots 28, 29, 34, 35 and 36, in Block B, of Lincoln Heights Subdivision, according to and as shown on map or plat of said subdivision of record in Town Plat Book 1, at Page 23, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama; and EUEL A. SCREWS, and/or any unknown heirs of EUEL A. SCREWS. NOTICE OF ACTION To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence.

You are hereby notified that on the 5th day of March, 2019, a complaint to quiet title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee

County, and the following are the names of all parties to the action: Rosalyn Rosenblum, as Plaintiff; Euel A. Screws, as Defendant, a deceased individual whose heirs, executors, administrators, successors and/or assigns are unknown and cannot be ascertained after the exercise of due diligence, and who are believed to have claimed some right, title, interest or claim in and to the property described as follows: Lots 28, 29, 34, 35 and 36, in Block B, of Lincoln Heights Subdivision, according to and as shown on map or plat of said subdivision of record in Town Plat Book 1, at Page 23, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.

All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them, it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.

Done this the 12th day of July, 2019. /s/ Mary Roberson Circuit Court Clerk, Lee County J. Brandon Rice Attorney for Plaintiff Rice & Parr 830 Avenue A, Suite A Opelika AL 36801 Legal Run 7/17, 7/24, 7/31 & 08/07/2019

NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Monday, August 19, 2019, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801.

3C6JD7AT0CG170683 - 2012

DODGE RAM TRUCK Legal Run 7/24/19 & 7/31/19

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF ROBERT WALLACE DANIEL COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 17th day of July, 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Witness my hand, and dated this the 17th day of July, 2019.

SHERRY LYN HALSEY Legal Run 7/24, 7/31 & 8/5/19

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2016-B-094 IN THE MATTER OF: BETTY A. JACKSON, An incapacitated person.

JUDGE OF PROBATE BILL ENGLISH NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that Tab Jackson, Conservator of Betty A. Jackson, an incapacitated person, has filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, his accounts, vouchers and statements for a Final Settlement of the Conservatorship of Betty A. Jackson. A hearing has been set for the 15th day of August 2019, at 9:00 a.m., Central Time, in the Court Room of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

Done this the 12th day of July 2019.

Bill English, Judge of Probate Legal Run 7/24/19, 7/31/19 & 08/07/19

See Legals, page B16

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B12 July 24, 2019

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B13 July 24, 2019

Remarks from Sen. Doug Jones’ media call; Sens. Jones, Tim Scott urge USDA to immediately implement Heirs’ Property Provisions secured in 2018 Farm Bill Special to the Opelika Observer Alabama Sen. Doug Jones offered the follwoing remarks during last week’s media call.

“Earlier this week, I joined a bipartisan group of my colleagues in introducing the Veterans Jobs Opportunity Act. This bill would create a small business start-up tax credit to help veterans start small businesses in underserved communities. Alabama alone has more than 42,000 veteran-owned small businesses. The men and women who have served in our armed forces deserve more than just our thanks. I believe that supporting our troops means giving them the tools they need to be successful when they transition out of uniform and into civilian life.

This bill will help fulfill that promise by helping veterans who want to

continue their service in a new way by starting small businesses in underserved communities.

This week is also the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission, and I spoke on the Senate floor to honor Alabama’s contributions to this historic event. Thinking back to the moon landing and what a unifying event it was for our country has just underscored my belief that we all need to come together again to heal the divisions in our country in the same way we did in 1969 around our mission to the Moon.

Like in 1969, it’s clear that our country is incredibly divided again.

Many leaders in the national conversation are using divisive and sometimes downright racist rhetoric to try to achieve their political goals.

But folks, we have to resist the pull of the forces that are trying to divide us. We need

to come together as one America and work together to live up to the lofty ideals our country was founded on. Attacking the patriotism of other Americans using hateful rhetoric and dog whistle messages doesn’t get us any closer to achieving those unifying principles. I believe that the arc of the moral universe will ultimately bend toward justice, but that will require each of us to stand up and condemn these kinds of attacks.

Every day, we have to resolve ourselves – no matter what the President is tweeting, no matter what is going on in the news – to choose unity over division.

We have to choose to respect the dignity of our fellow Americans, even if we disagree with them on certain issues.

At the end of the day, we are all Americans, and we all want this country to be the best version

of itself. We need to set aside our differences and remember our collective pride in who we are as Americans. So let’s refocus on making our country one nation, united for everyone.”

Heirs’ Property Provisions - 2018 Farm Bill A bipartisan letter to the Secretary of Agriculture highlights the immediate need to collect data on issue, allow heirs’ property landowners to obtain farm numbers In the letter, Sens.

Doug Jones (D-Ala.) and Tim Scott (R-S.C.) are urging the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to immediately implement provisions in the 2018 Farm Bill that would benefit owners of heirs’ property. Heirs’ property is land that has been informally passed down within families, often for several generations, and can often lead to legal complications

and prevent landowners from qualifying for federal assistance.

The letter focuses on a provision that would allow heirs’ property owners to obtain USDA farm numbers and gain fair access to the department’s programs, removing a significant barrier to federal resources that African-American farmers and ranchers have long faced.

Senators Jones and Scott introduced that legislation, the Fair Access for Farmers and Ranchers Act (S.3117), last year and were successful in their efforts to include it in the recent farm bill.

“Heirs’ property overwhelmingly impacts African-American land ownership, of which 60% is projected to be heirs’ property. Because a significant portion of U.S. minority-owned rural land was passed down through generations as heirs property, often without a legal

title, these farmers and ranchers have been unable to obtain farm numbers and subsequent access to a multitude of USDA programs,” the senators wrote.

“The inability to participate in USDA programs has not only contributed to a startling negative trend in African-American land ownership but has also hindered AfricanAmerican farmers and ranchers from experiencing economic equality,” the letter continues. “As representatives of states that are largely considered to be ground zero for this issue, timely and efficient implementation is paramount for heirs’ property owners.”

The letter also calls for USDA to follow through with a farm billmandated study about the impact of unresolved legal issues have on the ability of heirs’ property owners to operate their farms and ranches.

Sen. Doug Jones joins bipartisan call for implementation of program to alleviate border crisis last week Special to the Opelika Observer Sen. Doug Jones has joined a bipartisan group of senators in sending letters to President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, Acting Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan and Attorney Gen. William Barr to urge the implementation of “Operation

Flowers,

from B7

that First District Congressman, Bradley Byrne and Sec. of State John Merrill, will ultimately be in a runoff. Either would easily beat the Democrat in November 2020.

Safe Return” – a pilot program that uses existing law and authorities to rapidly, accurately and fairly determine and process credible fear claims. This is a first bipartisan step in trying to address the current crisis at the Southern border.

“We write to urge you to use authorities in use as of June 30, 2019, to implement Operation Safe Return, a pilot pro-

gram to rapidly, accurately, and fairly determine those families who have crossed the southern border that clearly do not have a valid legal claim and safely return them to their home countries,” the senators wrote. “Through this program, we expect that we can meet our commitments to humanitarian protections while ensuring proper efficien-

cy, timeliness, order, and fairness in the credible fear screening process.

We also expect that Operation Safe Return will help us examine current process deficiencies, identify required increases in capacity, and understand the drivers of migration.”

Sen. Jones said the following about the letter: “It’s clear that there is a true humanitarian

crisis happening at our southern border, and implementing Operation Safe Return is a good bipartisan step forward to address some of the most pressing challenges our immigration system faces today. This program would help make sure that the process at our border is as humane and efficient as possible.”

In addition to Sena-

tor Jones, the letter was signed by Senators Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), James Lankford (ROkla.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.) and John Cornyn (R-Texas).

Byrne dedicated himself to this race more than a year ago. He jumped in and made a full commitment. He has been campaigning at full throttle for 15 months. There is a tried and true adage that applies in politics that the early bird gets the worm.

Indeed, he has used his early dedication to the race to raise significant

early money and some good commitments.

However, Byrne’s initial polling numbers are not great. The surprising aspect to the internal polling reveals that his 2010 governor’s race does not give him name identification.

The good side for him is that his negatives are also low. Folks have ob-

viously forgotten that he ran for governor in 2010.

Most astute state inside observers believe that Sec. of State John Merrill is the man to beat in this race. Merrill is simply the hardest working retail politician in the state. He has a grassroots organization in all 67 counties.

He has gotten his traction the old-fashioned way

with hard work and a love for one-on-one politicking. He will outwork and out-organize all the candidates in the race combined.

Even though Merrill has built his organization the old-fashioned, hardworking way, he understands the new medium of networking and campaigning through

social media.

It will be fun to watch.

See you next week.

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

Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

NOW OPEN

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

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B14 July 24, 2019

Like crossword puzzles? Sudoku?

Play online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/

This week’s Scramblers Answers: 1. Admire, 2. Induce 3. Laze 4. Snide - Solution: Insurance

Even Exchange Answers 1. Brook, Broom 2. Puppy, Poppy 3. Lesson, Lessen 4. Player, Prayer 5. Curry, Carry

6. Meager, Meaner 7. Santa, Sante 8. Batch, Botch 9. Raffle, Waffle 10. Stork, Store

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B15 July 24, 2019

COMICS

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

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B16 July 24, 2019

Legals,

from B11 INVITATION FOR BIDS 19025 Sealed bids will be received, opened, and read aloud in public session for furnishing all labor and materials and performing all work required by the City of Opelika for DISASTER DEBRIS REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL, for the City of Opelika until 2:00 p.m., Local Time, Monday, August 12, 2019, at Opelika City Hall Conference Room 1 st floor at 204 S. 7 th St, Opelika, Alabama.

Qualified contractors are invited to bid.

The bidder expressly acknowledges, to and for the benefit of the CITY, that this Agreement may be funded with federal monies and, therefore bidder expressly warrants and agrees that it shall at times comply with all applicable federal, state, local and municipal laws and regulations. For more information

about the Federal regulations visit the website http://gpoaccess.gov/index.htm Emergency Debris Removal The City of Opelika is soliciting bids to provide Disaster Debris Removal and Disposal Services following an event within the city limits and some rights-of-way that may be outside the corporate limits of Opelika, Alabama.

Plans, Specifications, Invitation to Bid, addenda, and other related documents may be obtained from the City of Purchasing Department located at 204 S 7 th St., Opelika, Alabama, Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. until 4:30 P.M., or downloaded from the City’s website at www.opelikaal.gov/292/Purchasing. Questions or comments pertaining to this proposal must be sent to the Public Works Director, Mike Hilyer before July 31, 2019 at 4:00 p.m.

Guarantee will be required with each bid as follows: At least five (5) percent of the amount of bid in the form of a certified check or Bid Bond payable to the City of Opelika, Alabama. Contractor may be required to provide

the following bonds: Payment and Performance, Labor and Material Bond.

The right is reserved, as the interest of the Owner may require, to reject any and all bids and to waive any informality in bids received.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked, addressed as follows, and delivered to: Lillie Finley, Purchasing-Revenue Manager, City of Opelika, 204 South 7th Street, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama, 36803. Attn.: Emergency Debris Removal The attention of all bidders is called to the provisions of State law governing “General Contractors” as set forth in the Ala. Code §34-8-1, et.seq.

(1975) and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto. Bidders must be licensed by the Licensing Board for General Contractors when bids are submitted.

All bidders must submit with their proposal, contractor’s license number and a copy of the license. State law Ala. Code §34-8-8(b) requires all bids to be rejected which do not contain the contractor’s current license number. Evi-

dence of this license must be documented on the outside of the envelope of the sealed bid.

LILLIE FINLEY PURCHASING-REVENUE MANAGER CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 7/24/19 & 7/31/19

above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 7/24/19 & 7/31/19

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Extra Space Storage 1412 Opelika Road. Auburn AL, 36830 on 08/12/2019 at 2:00 p.m.

Mark Brumbeloe Unit# 255 194 Winterset Ln Notasulga,AL,36866 Books, Boxes, Miscellaneous Mark Brumbeloe Unit# 256 194 Winterset Ln Notasulga,AL,36866 Books, Boxes, Miscellaneous Jordan Taylor Unit# N167 202 1/2 N 2nd St Opelika,AL,36801 Boxes and Furniture Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the

This week’s puzzle answers:

NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Monday, August 12, 2019, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801.

1G1ND52J5Y6303905 - 2000 CHEVROLET MALIBU Legal Run 7/17/19 & 7/24/19