Opelika Observer 07-31-19

Vol. 11, No. 43

Wednesday, July 31, 2019

Opelika, Alabama

Opelika Observer - “By local people, for local people.”

Students in Lee County head back to school next week

By Morgan Bryce Editor

Students across Lee County will return to school next week marking the beginning of the 20192020 academic calendar year.

The Opelika City Schools System will be the first to start on Aug. 6.

All Lee County Schools, Beauregard, Beulah, Loachapoka and Smiths Station as well as LeeScott Academy will report on Aug. 7, Auburn City Schools and Glenwood

School on Aug. 8 and Trinity Christian School will be the last one to start on Aug. 12. Each school’s first day will be a half day for students.

Following is a breakdown of the remaining school year for students of each school in Lee County.

Schools with differing schedules from others will be noted. These are subject to change because of possible weather or unforeseen events: • Labor Day (Sept. 2) All schools off • Columbus Day (Oct.

14) - Trinity Christian School only • Fall Break - Glenwood School (Oct. 11 through 14), Lee-Scott Academy (Oct. 14 and 15) and Opelika City Schools (Oct. 14 and 15) • Veterans Day (Nov. 11) - All schools off - Thanksgiving Break (Nov. 25 through 29) - All schools off • Winter Break - Trinity Christian School (Dec. 16 through Jan. 3), and all remaining schools Dec. 23 through Jan. 3, except Opelika which resumes on

Jan. 2 and Glenwood on Jan. 7. Glenwood has two additional Winter Break days on Feb. 17 and 18 • Dr. Martin Luther King Day (Jan. 20) - All schools off - President’s Day (Feb. 17) - All but Lee County Schools will be off • Spring Break - Auburn City Schools and LeeScott Academy (March 9 through 13), Glenwood and Lee County Schools (March 30 through April 3) and Opelika (March 16 through 20) • Good Friday and Eas-

ter Monday (April 10 and 13) - Glenwood School, Lee-Scott Academy and Trinity Christian School.

Both teachers and students will be off at Lee-Scott but there will be a Teacher Workday for Glenwood teachers on April 13.

• Last Day for Students - Trinity Christian School (May 14), Glenwood School (May 19) and Auburn City Schools, Lee County Schools, Lee-Scott Academy and Opelika City Schools on May 21 • Graduation - Trinity Christian School (May

14), Beauregard High School, Beulah High School, Glenwood School and Lee-Scott Academy (May 21) and Auburn High School, Loachapoka High School and Opelika High School (May 22). Smiths Station High School’s 2020 graduation date has not yet been finalized.

Editor’s note: On behalf of the Observer staff, we’d like to wish each and every one of our county’s students and teachers a prosperous and successful school year!

National Night Out event Aug. Blaze destroys playground 6 to spread messages of love, near Antioch Circle in Opelika togetherness in Opelika

By Morgan Bryce Editor

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

By Morgan Bryce Editor Members of the Opelika Fire and Police departments are investigating the cause

of a fire that destroyed a playground near Antioch Circle on Monday afternoon.

Around 12:45 p.m. there were multiple reports of a large,

billowing column of smoke coming from the area near the Opelika Housing Authority along Antioch See Fire, page A3

Valestine Penn, the city of Opelika and Mayor Gary Fuller are asking the public leave their porch lights on and help celebrate in year's National Night Event Aug. 6 beginning at 5 p.m. at Covington Recreation Center's park.

Valestine, along with her brother Oscar, has been involved in coordinating the event since 2010. She took over as chairwoman in 2017, and said the event has displayed continual growth during the last nine years.

National Night Out, a movement founded in the mid 1980s, is an annual event held in Opelika and cities across the

Index

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

SPORTS..................................B1 POLITICS.....................................B9 LEGALS.......................................B11 ENTERTAINMENT........................B14

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

nation. Sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, the event is designed to be a community-building crime, drug and vio-

lence prevention campaign that advocates for and promotes community-police partnerships and neighborhood See Night Out, page A3

pelika O Observer.com

NO CREDIT CHECK 334-742-0607

APPLY ONLINE www.goreesfurniture.com

pelika O Observer

A2 July 31, 2019

All Aboard hosts children’s John Emerald Distilling wins at 2019 National Spirit Competitions book readings with Kelli Chadick, Maggie Cooper Special to the Opelika Observer

More than 30 spirit industry leaders and upwards of 500 spirits brands participated in the inaugural PR%F Awards and PR%F Awards Design Distinction during a two-day blind-tasting point-rating competition in Las Vegas June 16-18, 2019.

John Emerald Distilling (JED) picked up multiple awards during the Las Vegas blindtasting competition.

JEDs Gene’s Spiced Rum was awarded a gold medal, while their John’s Alabama Single Malt

Whiskey and Spurgeon’s Barrel Aged Rum brought home respectable silver medals.

These awards follow a silver medal for JED’s John’s Alabama Single Malt Whiskey and a bronze medal for JED’s Hugh Wesley’s Barrel Rested Gin in the prestigious 2019 San Francisco World’s Spirits Competition.

“It’s great to see our spirits representing Opelika and Alabama in the winner’s circle of different top-rated national and worldwide competitions," said John Sharp, JED's co-founder. "From day one, our goal has

been to make top-shelf products that our customers, city and state can be proud of. To reach that goal, we craft our spirits with patience using only the finest raw ingredients obtainable. It appears that approach to making quality Alabama spirits is being recognized.”

For five years, John Emerald Distilling Company has been producing top quality Alabama spirits in historic downtown Opelika.

For more information call 334-737-5353 or visit www.johnemeralddistilling.com. The distillery is located at 706 N. Railroad Ave.

Photos special to the Opelika Observer

Pictured above top: Local State Farm agent Kali Bryan Chadick reads to a group of children at All Aboard at Southern Crossing last week. Below: Local author Maggie Meadows Cooper reads her book “Bumper” to a group on July 16.

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

“Our Mission is Your Health”

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And so are your Allergies!

We can help get you feeling better faster.

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pelika Observer

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

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

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pelika O Observer

A3 July 31, 2019

Public forum on ‘Violence in Opelika’ held July 27

By Kelly Daniel For the Opelika Observer

On July 27, the David Mathews Center for Civic Life and the City of Opelika held a public forum entitled Violence in Opelika, with a focus on causes, impacts, and potential solutions to violence.

The Purpose of the Event Leigh Krehling, who serves Opelika in the role of Community Relations Officer, explained that the purpose of the forum was to gather the community to express concerns, share personal experiences with violence, and propose potential solutions.

Mayor Gary Fuller and Opelika Housing Authority Executive Director Matthew McClammey pointed

out that while Opelika has already made significant progress and continues to reduce violence, new ideas are needed to continue to improve. “I feel like we need to build on the successes and accomplishments achieved thus far,” McClammey said. “I feel like the most important piece of this puzzle was to acknowledge that there was/is a problem with crime in Opelika. The “Crime Commission”, created by the Mayor and City Council, was a great first step.”

The David Mathews Center provided the structure for the event, which was led by a moderator from the Center. The discussion began by focusing on the causes and impacts of violence, after which attendees were asked to propose potential solu-

“Conversations, regardless of how they are perceived, are always powerful...

It’s about what we heard today, what we take away from it, and how it can make us, as a people, better.”

Dr. Frankie Bell tions.

Effects of Local Violence Forum participants brought up personal consequences of violent crime, including the tragedy of losing friends and family to violence, fear of becoming a victim, and the potential for children to be traumatized from early exposure.

Patsy Parker of the Opelika School board asserted that a violent crime affects all

Scott Ritchie hired as new municipal court clerk Special to the Opelika Observer The City of Opelika is excited to announce Scott Ritchie as its new municipal court clerk.

Ritchie will supervise operations of the city’s court and is responsible for supervising staff, performing court functions, monitoring and managing cash receipts, overseeing customer service and preparing budgets.

Ritchie steps into this position following Anita Comer’s retirement in June.

“I am very excited to begin my life’s next chapter with the City of Opelika. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the Municipal Court staff, and I am thankful to be able to work for, and assist, the citizens of this amazing city,” Ritchie said.

Ritchie has an exten-

Night Out, from A1

camaraderie.

According to a description on www. natw.org, “National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community and provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.”

"These concerns are not based on one race or portion of the city but the city as a whole.

We have problems with (drugs) in this community, which can appeal to a broken child," Oscar said. "Through National Night Out, we just want to wake up that awareness and let

Ritchie sive resume showing his expertise working in the municipal court field.

He comes to Opelika from the city of Auburn where he performed the duties of assistant court clerk at the Auburn municipal court. There, he was responsible for processing records, files and pleadings into court; he was the pre-trial diversion coordinator, the community service coordinator and the payment plan coordinator; and served as the backup for the court clerk. In addition, he developed and monitored all court records and served as a people know that there is hope and that there are resources for them right here in our community."

The Penns said that there will be no march again this year because of late summer's sweltering temperatures. This will allow the gathered crowd to hear messages from Fuller, the city council and members of local law enforcement as well as watch presentations of awards to area youth who are making a difference and churches who played a significant role in tornado recovery relief.

There will also be a cake walk later in the evening.

Following are participating sponsors and vendors who are contributing to help make this event possible, which is subject

leader and resource for employee concerns and issues.

Prior to his work in Auburn, Ritchie served as a police officer for two years in Auburn and a deputy sheriff for six years in Lee County.

He was also with the New York State Marine Services and the New York State Park Police from 1994 to 2006.

“As you can see, with more than 20 years in law enforcement, Scott is deeply committed to serving the community.

He has dedicated his entire career to guide and support those he serves. We are fortunate to have him join the Opelika team and look forward to the work he will provide to our city and our citizens,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller.

Ritchie is married to Jaymi Carter-Ritchie and they have one son. to change until the day of the event: - Academy Sports and Outdoors - Airport Motors - AT&T - Child Care Resource Center - Christian Women's Job Corps - City of Opelika's Parks and Recreation Department - The Curtis House - Direct Insurance - Domestic Violence Intervention Center - Gentry and Ware - Glynn Smith Chevrolet - Golden Corral - Greater Peace Baptist Church - Hardee's - Health and Wellness Center - Magic 1520 AM - Lee County Literacy Coalition - Opelika Housing Authority - Project Uplift

citizens, regardless of which neighborhood it happens in or in what area any given individual lives. She explained that violence has an impact, regardless of whether it affects an individual personally or whether the effect is less direct. For example, economic consequences included the potential for people and businesses not wanting to move to the area due to crime statistics.

Contributing

Fire,

from A1 Circle. Shortly after the blaze started, Emily Key noticed the plume of smoke while driving and pulled over to capture video footage to share on the Observer’s Facebook page.

At 1:23 p.m., OFD officials confirmed that the blaze had been extinguished.

According to Mattew McClammey, executive director of the Opelika Housing Authority, they are working on a plan to remove the charred playground equipment and install a new one, which can range in cost from $20,000 to $50,000. McClammey added that the new playground will most likely not be built with rubber mulch, which he learned “is much more flammable than he realized” after conversations with OFD officials and caused “the dark smoke.”

“I just want people to

Factors to Violent Crime Among the causes listed were violent crimes committed by non-residents, a need for more activities for teenagers, and issues pertaining to unemployment and poverty.

Several attendees mentioned a concern about people from outside of the area committing crimes in Opelika.

Another risk factor was that teenagers do not have enough options for

know that we’re going to do everything we can to get a replacement playground as soon as possible. The most fortunate thing I can say

constructive activities, particularly during summer break when parents are at work. During this time, teenagers might be at risk of becoming victims of violence or for becoming involved in activities, such as drinking alcohol or using recreational drugs, that may lead to violence. Attendees also expressed concern that adults with low educational attainment are more likely to commit violent crime. These individuals may commit violence due to frustration caused by the challenges they face, such as being unable to earn a living wage and support their family.

Numerous research studies, including a 2017 journal article by Mario Coccia, found at www.sciencedirect. com, have supported the See Forum, page A5 about this is that there’s no injury or loss of life and two that there was no significant property damage,” McClammey said.

Photo by Emily Key/ For the Opelika Observer

- Rape Center - Senior Plus Program - Target - Walmart Vision Center - Youth Development Center.

"We hope that this event will just bring people closer and closer together. The message we hope to put out is that we're tired of crime and we just to want to love on one another," Valestine said.

"This will be just one night for us to come together and be one."

Admission is free and food and drinks will be provided. Valestine will be accepting love donations until the day of the event.

For more information, call Valestine at 334-745-0150. The recreation center is Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer located at 213 Carver Pictured are moments from Opelika’s National Ave. Night Out event in 2017.

pelika O Opinion

A4 July 31, 2019

B

Tips and Tales

y day, I work for a doctor in Opelika.

I love my job and the people I work with.

But for a few months this year, I needed extra income so I signed on as a food delivery driver for Tiger Town To Go. My plan was to work several evenings a week and at least one shift each weekend.

It felt like a challenge, a way to stretch myself, while making extra money. And maybe, I hoped, a story or two would present itself to me.

The day I was hired, I met at the TTTG office in Auburn. It’s a small operation, but it runs like clockwork. An app was installed on my phone which allowed me to be alerted when a pickup was ready. It gave me all the information I needed, including the name of the restaurant, the address of the delivery point, and (most importantly) what my tip would be for each particular job. After a 10-minute briefing on how to use the app, I was given a hot bag for keeping the food warm and a couple of Tiger Town To Go t-shirts. I was ready.

My first night on the job, I was a bit nervous… about driving in Auburn traffic, about getting lost and ending up in exotic spots like Loachapoka or

A

Notasulga… But mostly, I was worried about serial killers. Auburn is a big city, and the likelihood that at least one serial killer lives there is statistically too high for my peace of mind. I just knew that I would be the next day’s headline: “Woman delivers sushi to Auburn’s Jack the Ripper!”

Because my best friend is a thoughtful man, he suggested that we use Facebook messenger when possible to stay connected. That way he could see and hear where I was and who I was interacting with. I felt much safer that way. So when my first evening of driving rolled around, I was excited and ready to go. How hard could this be? Right?

My first stop was, in fact, a sushi delivery to a very elite neighborhood on the outskirts of Auburn. The homes were sprawling mini-mansions with manicured lawns,

and the driveways were circular and dotted with white lights and bubbling fountains. With my best friend smiling at me on messenger, I pulled up to the curb and walked to the door, bags of sushi in hand. The total for this delivery was well over a hundred dollars, but my tip was only three bucks.

The blond who answered the doorbell was wearing yoga pants and talking on her cell phone.

She had a fake tan.

The blond hair was also fake. So was her considerable chest. She barely acknowledged me when she reached out for her dinner, but I smiled politely and said, “Thank you so much. Enjoy your meal.”

My best friend had heard the whole thing and was smiling at me when I got back in the car.

“You’d think that, of all people, someone who lives in that house would tip fairly,” I complained.

“Chin up,” he said.

“The night will get better.”

And it did. I made a dozen deliveries that night, with a total in tips of about $69. My shift ended and I headed back to the office to cash out.

My best friend was dozing on messenger when I See Hodge, page A5

A

2:49 P.M. farm in LaFayette, Alabama.

There are hardly any structures around for miles, only cornfields and silos. My band will play a concert here tonight. A hoedown, if you will.

Our band’s only mission: Fun. With a capital “F.” When I arrive, the band is already waiting on me. I have been playing music with these men for many years. We’re not great, but we’re okay.

Tom (bass) sits on a porch swing, overlooking miles of corn. Jimmy (drums) leans against his car, smoking a cigarette, lost in a moment of spiritual reflection.

“Gosh,” Jimmy says, “I wonder where people go pee out here?”

The sound-guys are erecting speaker towers.

And I am watching a copper-topped boy in a cowboy hat run in circles.

3:32 P.M.—Soundcheck. Tom tunes his upright bass. Jimmy tightens his drumheads.

Aaron is on fiddle. I’ll be playing guitar and accordion tonight.

I have played accordion since my early days.

The accordion is not an instrument per se, but more of a family embarrassment.

4:08 P.M.—Cars ar-

By Sean Dietrich

rive by the dozen. People are mingling. There is an old man drinking out of a Mason jar, clear liquid. I doubt it’s water 4:32 P.M.—Copper Top approaches me and says, “Is that a REAL accordion?”

“Yep.” “And are you REALLY gon’ play that thang?”

“Yessir.”

“Dang.”

When I was a boy, I took up accordion because I wanted to be like my grandfather. But I learned to play with a bad habit, I stomp my right foot in rhythm. Sometimes I stomp so hard that I develop knee issues.

But it’s fun. And that’s the keyword tonight.

5:11 P.M.—The parking area is now overflowing with cars. People have brought folding chairs and coolers. There is a taco truck in the distance.

The old man with the Mason jar is having an animated conversation with a cow.

5:34 P.M.—There are tons of people here.

A woman from Georgia drove many miles to be at this shindig. A former probate judge from Alexander City. A man from Virginia. A young couple from South Carolina.

Someone from Texas.

There are welders, dentists, realtors, farmers, pipe fitters, brick layers, librarians, English teachers, preachers and a group of women celebrating their 60th birthdays together.

“We’ve been friends since kindergarten,” says one of these women.

“That’s forty years.”

“No,” says another lady. “That’s FIFTYFIVE years” “I can’t do math,” says the woman, “this is my third glass of wine.”

5:37 P.M.—The place is packed. People are cheerful and loud.

And it starts to rain.

These are torrents like something from the Old Testament. People scurry inside the barn. Imagine, a few hundred people, huddled inside a pole barn, sweating, laughing, drinking beer.

The sound-guys wrap speakers with tarps. We might have to cancel.

Mason Jar doesn’t seem too worried about See Dietrich, page A5

Lights ‘a shining’ as we age

s a Baby Boomer, I am always looking for people who can mentor me and encourage me that as we age, we can still help, contribute, encourage others and serve others as we grow older!

It’s not how old you are, it’s how you are old. I love the clichés of “experience is the best teacher” and “it’s never too late to learn.” Some folks retire in one profes-

M

By Wendy Hodge

LaFayette, Alabama

y first experience with book banning occurred when I was about 12.

My father was a reader and on his shelves were books he particularly liked.

I had free run of this “library.” I was never told what I should or should not read.

One rainy afternoon, I found myself bored and sought entertainment in those shelves.

Now if you have ever been a bored 12-year old, you know that mischief possibilities are many. You also know that mischief is possible even when it is unintended. In fact, you know that you are likely to get in more trouble through unintended mischief than intended, for any 12-year-old worth his/her salt knows not to

sion and begin down a new path.

Let’s look at Moses.

God called Moses from tending sheep to go back to Egypt and lead the children of Israel out of Egypt to the Promised Land at age 80! As I look at people that are quite a few years older than me, I cannot make the excuse that I am too old for doing something when my senior friends in their 70s, 80s and 90s are still going strong.

By Beth Pinyerd

As I have mentioned in earlier articles, my senior friends represent The Greater Generation. As we review the characteristics of this generation of selfsacrifice, personal re-

sponsibility, humbles natures, work hard, prudent saving and faithful commitment, this generation has such a strong backbone and determination that make their life lights shine very bright. The following list is comprised of a few famous people who achieved success in their later years.

I am so very encouraged by the life of Grandma Moses, a renowned American folk artist. She began

painting at the age of 78. Just think of beginning a career at this age. Her works have been shown and sold in the United States and abroad.

“The Sugaring Off” was sold for $1.2 million in 2006.

Fred Astaire was an amazingly talented American actor, choreographer, dancer, singer and television presenter. His film and television career spanned a total of 76 years. He lived to be

Read a banned book

engage in intended mischief without a ready excuse to explain why he/she did it.

If you are caught in unintended mischief you have to think fast or suffer the consequences.

I was about to get into unintended mischief.

Most of Daddy’s books were hard cover and thick – Book of the Month Club selections –too much for an afternoon’s entertainment. However, down at one end of the highest shelf was a thin paperback. It had been out of my reach until recently, when what passed for a growth-spurt added a couple of inches to my unimpressive height.

Now, on tip-toes, the book was mine.

The cover was not particularly enticing – a knothole in a fence through which you

By Hardy Jackson

could see a rundown cabin in a barren field, a rusted out automobile in front, an outhouse out back. But the title intrigued me, God’s Little Acre.

So I opened it up and before I knew it I was in the world of “illiterate Southerners, with their canalized appetites, their barbaric instincts and their animal jealousies,” just like the “introduction” said I would be. It was a world populated by people both familiar and exotic.

There was Ty Ty who promised an acre to God, but moved the

acre when he suspected the gold he lusted after might be there. There was Plato who lusted after Darling Jill who didn’t lust after him in return. And Griselda who was lusted after by all, especially Will who lusted after her and everybody else.

There was a lotta lust in God’s Little Acre.

I was well into this lusting when my Mama came in and saw what I was reading.

She didn’t say a word, at least not to me.

Instead, she went right straight to Daddy and in a tone that was as accusatorial as interrogatory, I heard her ask, “where did your son get that book.”

It was clear from her phrasing that no son of hers would pick up such a book on his own, which of course was

what I had done.

Daddy realized that like any good prosecutor, Mama had asked a question to which she already knew the answer. So Daddy decided to hide behind the truth.

“What book?” he asked, for to this point he was entirely the innocent.

God’s Little Acre!!

“He must have found it on my bookshelf,” he confessed, shifting as he did the blame from himself to me.

All this did was make us both guilty – he for giving me unlimited access to a library that contained such a book, me for taking advantage of my father’s liberality.

Listening to all this I realized that even as Mama was trying to stake out the moral high ground she was revealing that she, herself, had

88 years old.

We all remember the colorful and wonderful acting career of Katherine Hepburn, who was an actress for her fierce independence and spirited personality. Hepburn’s acting career lasted more than 60 years! Her portrayal of growing older on “Golden Pond” with Henry Fonda and Jane Fonda was a beautiful, loving tribute to living life to the fullest as See Pinyerd, page A5

read the book and was familiar with what it contained.

Her banning was based on knowledge, not ignorance, which too often is not the case.

Meanwhile, I read on, trying to get through as much as I could before Daddy came and took the book away.

Only he didn’t.

Out of my hearing he must have calmed Mama down, reassured her that God’s Little Acre was not going to set me off on the slippery slope to degeneracy. Maybe he reminded her that she had read it and remained the paragon of virtue she had always been. Whatever he said, it worked.

I finished the book and put it back on the shelf.

See Jackson, page A5

pelika O Observer

A5 July 31, 2019

AdvisorSmith ranks Auburn as no.

3 midsize city for auto workers Special to the Opelika Observer Auburn was ranked as the no. 3 midsize city for auto technicians and mechanics, according to a new 388-city study by AdvisorSmith.

Auburn ranked #8 overall in the study of 388 cities, beating out Birmingham (#38), Dothan (#79) and Gadsden (#81).

Auburn hosts 27% more jobs for auto technicians and mechanics on a per-capita basis compared with the U.S. average.

The average annual salary for service techs in Auburn is $50,340, 15% above the national average, while the cost of living is 6% below the

Dietrich,

from A4

getting wet.

6:01 P.M.—The rain stops. People cheer.

Some have to use the bathroom—all that beer has to go somewhere.

But we are in the middle of nowhere. So, many people decide to sneak into the cornfield to answer the Call of Nature. And when I say “many people,” I am talking about upright citizens in the community, such as PTA members.

6:29 P.M.—Showtime. I start by playing “Jambalaya” on the accordion. I am not a good accordionist. My music has often been compared to the sound of a water buffalo in heat moaning along with an over-inflated whoopee cushion.

Then I switch to guitar. I am not a great guitarist either, but Mason Jar thinks I hung the moon.

6:47 P.M.—The band sounds pretty good to-

average.

Automotive service technicians and mechanics are tasked with inspecting, maintaining and repairing cars and light trucks. While they generally work on traditional mechanical systems, such as engines and transmissions, today’s service techs must also be skilled in the growing number of electronic systems being built into modern vehicles.

As newer vehicles house more complex systems, particularly with electric and self-driving vehicles, the demand for skilled service technicians is growing. Given this high demand, auto technicians and mechanics have the ability to settle down in a myriad of locations, night. During one song, our drummer sneaks off to visit the cornfield.

7:18 P.M.—I am singing church songs. I cannot play music with my friends without singing the music of my ancestors, it ties me to those who came before me. I know a million hymns.

7:42 P.M.—I am still playing and telling stories. The audience is nice enough to laugh at my jokes and clap after tunes.

7:58 P.M.—Our last song is “I’ll Fly Away.”

8:33 P.M.—Since we finished, I have been hugging the necks of people who attended.

And I feel silly knowing that people drove so far to see a redhead playing music in a vegetable stand.

Mason Jar is lying in the grass, counting his fingers.

9:45 P.M.—The last car departs. The sound of the night is nothing but crickets, frogs, and wind rustling among corn stalks.

Copper Top says, “Man, I gotta learn to play one of them accordions.”

Pinyerd,

from A4

we grow older. She lived to be 96 years old!

Bob Hope was an American actor, athlete, author, comedian, dancer, singer and vaudevillian. He made 57 USO tours between 1941-1991. He died at the age of 100.

Ronald Reagan was 69 years old as he was sworn in on his first term of being the 40th president of the United States.

He encouraged the confidence of America as he worked to strengthen the economy.

Louis Armstrong, nicknamed Papa, Saga and most notably Satchmo, was an American composer, singer and trumpeter for more than five decades from the 1920s to the 1960s.

Armstrong was an inventive trumpeter. He had a huge influence and has left an indelible impact on American music.

Aging is a matter of feeling, not of years one has lived.

but where exactly are the best opportunities for service techs?

AdvisorSmith’s study ranked 388 U.S. cities to determine the most attractive cities for automotive technicians and mechanics to pursue their careers in.

Their analysis found that many of the best cities for auto technicians and mechanics are small and midsize cities. Smaller cities have, on average, a more geographically spread out footprint than high-density cities, fueling higher demand for cars and more miles driven, meaning more job opportunities for auto technicians and mechanics. Coupled with lower costs of living, smaller cities won out in the Soon, everyone is gone and we are all driving home. We may never have a night like this again because that’s the way life works. The most special moments of your life only happen by accident, and you can’t duplicate them, no matter how you try. My father used to say that.

10:11 P.M.—We are driving dirt roads. I am looking out the window, thinking about how life is so rich, but I don’t always recognize it.

Foolish little accordionist, this is your life, pay attention.

10:12 P.M.—I receive a text from my drummer. It reads: “Love you, Sean. That was so much fun.”

God, it really was.

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.

Jackson,

from A4 All this came back to me after my father died. Going through the papers he left behind, I found that very copy of God’s Little Acre.

I have it beside me as I write this, sitting there to remind me that banning books seldom accomplish what the censor intends. Often it backfires.

Google up the Top Ten Banned Books. Some will surprise you.

Then make yourself a promise that this year during Banned Book Week (September 22-28) you will read the ones you haven’t read already.

Yes, I bet you have read some of them.

To Kill a Mockingbird is one.

Bet you are none the worse for the reading. You might even be better for having done it.

Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Professor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville State University.

He can be reached at hjackson@ cableone.net.

study, with nine of the top-10 and 43 of the top50 cities having populations under 500,000 citizens.

Methodology AdvisorSmith’s study examined three key variables in determining the best cities for auto technicians and mechanics to pursue their careers in.

1. Average annual salaries for auto technicians and mechanics They considered the average annual salary earned by service technicians in each city in the study. The higher the average salary, the more highly they ranked a given metro area. The average salary for auto technicians and mechanics in the study was $43,730.

Hodge,

from A4 parked and went inside.

“Hey, Wendy,” the boss said. “I have you at $89 in tips tonight.”

“Wow! That’s more than I thought,” I answered.

“Well, the strangest thing happened,” he replied. “You know that stop with the three dollar tip on the big order of sushi?”

I nodded.

“Well, this has never happened before, but apparently the neighbors were having dinner with them, and when they saw the bill with that lousy tip on it, they felt bad and called the office. They added twenty bucks to your tip.”

“You’re kidding!” I grinned.

“Here’s your money.

See you tomorrow,” he waved as I walked out.

“Tips good tonight?” my best friend asked as I got back in the car.

“You won’t believe what happened.” I explained about the neighbor who called in the tip for me.

“You see? This job is going to be a good thing,” he said with a yawn.

And it was a good thing. For months, I drove all over Auburn and sometimes into Opelika.

With music playing and my arm hanging out the window, I had time to think and to “write” in my head. I admit, too, that seeing the tip amounts climbing on my phone was exciting. It was a bit like gambling… how much will I make on this next spin around Auburn?

My car had a lingering smell of Mexican food that took forever to get rid of and kept me hungry for nachos. Most of all, I knew I had stumbled on a goldmine of stories.

Every door I knocked on had a lifetime of tales behind it.

There was the guy who answered my knock dressed in a purple silk robe with moons and stars on it. His hair was long

2. Density of jobs for auto technicians and mechanics in each city Automotive service technicians and mechanics have a special set of skills that require postsecondary education or on-the-job training.

Given this, they ranked cities that have a higher concentration of jobs for service techs relative to the general worker population as more desirable.

This density is represented by the location quotient in the Bureau of Labor Statistics employment data.

In 2018, there were 648,050 auto technicians and mechanics employed in the United States. The BLS predicts that employment for auto technicians and mechanics will

grow at a 6 % pace over the 10-year period of 2016-2026, which is in line with the national job growth outlook.

3. Cost of living index for each city They adjusted the salaries earned by auto technicians and mechanics in each city by a cost of living multiplier. The cost of living, including necessities such as rent, transportation, and groceries, varies by city, so it is important to normalize the salaries so that the cities can be compared fairly. Cities with more affordable lifestyles were ranked more highly in their study.

Read the entire study at www.advisorsmith.com/ data/best-cities-for-autotechnicians-mechanics/.

and braided, and he had rings on every finger.

New headline: “Dumbledore is alive in Auburn and likes Taco Bell!”

There was the older gentleman who pointed to the security camera above his front door and said, “I just installed video surveillance. Smile, you’re on candid camera!”

There was the lady with a house full of barking dogs who ordered two dozen tacos and a gallon of queso dip just for herself.

There was the young girl who lived in a concrete shack in Opelika who cried while she dug through her purse to find enough change to tip me what she thought was fair.

I didn’t have the heart to take a single dime from her, and she cried even harder when I told her to keep it.

There were the frat boys who were overserved and there were stressed out grad students who looked as if they hadn’t seen the sun in ages. There were frazzled moms in big houses and frazzled moms in little houses. There were couples who came to the door holding hands, and there were teenagers babysitting who were hoping the pizza I brought them would pacify screaming children.

But, with only a handful of exceptions, the people who answered the door were friendly and warm. I guess it’s hard to be anything but nice to the person who’s bringing you hot food and sweet tea.

That job ended for me, mainly because the air conditioner in my car isn’t working, and summers in Alabama are brutal without it. But I learned two very important things driving for Tiger Town To Go. First, I learned that what I’ve heard people who work for tips say my entire life is very true: The bigger the house, the smaller the tip. Friendly or not, it was the people who had the least to give who gave the most.

Second, I learned that if you put yourself in a position to encounter glimpses of other people’s lives, even if only briefly, you are reminded how beautiful every single person is. Strange and funny and beautiful…. and worthy of a story of their own, each of them.

Last weekend, my best friend and I were driving in Auburn, and we passed the street where I made that first delivery with the three dollar tip. I pointed it out to him and asked if he remembered that.

“Yes, I do,” he said and smiled a strange smile.

“I still think it’s so cool that the neighbor called in that extra twenty bucks,” I said.

“Uh huh,” was all he answered, and he looked away.

“Wait a minute,” I whispered. “That was you, wasn’t it?”

He just smiled at me.

“You did that? You called in and pretended to be the neighbor and tipped me twenty dollars?”

“I wasn’t ever going to tell you, but I’m not good at hiding things. Yes, that was me. I just wanted you to have a good first night on the job. Every single tip after that you earned on your own…. Now don’t cry.”

But it was too late. I looked at him through my tears and realized, again, how lucky I am.

“That’s just about the sweetest thing anybody’s ever done for me.” He squeezed my hand as I wiped the happy tears off my face.

“Let’s go to the house and order sushi,” my best friend said, grinning. And we drove through Auburn without making a single stop, laughing the whole way.

Wendy Hodge is an Opelika native, an empty nester and lover of all things Opelika. She previously had a column titled A Word or Ten, which was featured in the Tennessee Star Journal and is currently awaiting release of her first novel with Harper Collins Publishing Company.

pelika O Opinion

A6 July 31, 2019

Opelika Chamber of Commerce announces partnership with Iron ReHealth and Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama Special to the Opelika Observer The Opelika Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce a partnership with Iron ReHealth and the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama to offer a health, dental and vision benefit program exclusively for chamber

members.

This Alabama Chambers Benefit Program uses the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama network to help members reduce health related costs by providing a specialized program made for small and mid-sized businesses. This program emphasizes wellness, cost saving education and

concierge-level service.

Businesses eligible for this program must be a member of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce and have two or more employees that work at least 30 hours a week. Independent Contractors will not be eligible for this program.

This program provides several benefits to both

local chambers and their members. Chambers will benefit from a program that is attractive to new members and will help retain current members. Members will have easy access to health resources, lower health benefit costs and have 24/7 access to a doctor through Teladoc with no copay.

President of the Opelika Chamber, Pam PowersSmith said “Health coverage has been the number one concern from our businesses for quite some time, and we’re so glad to be able to provide a solution now.

We’re already hearing of great quotes coming back for the first ones that have inquired.”

For members and potential members with more questions, there will be two information sessions held on August 6. The sessions will begin at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Opelika Chamber of Commerce. These sessions are free to attend and are a chance for any and all questions about the program to be answered.

Extension office notes: information on growing summer squash and recipes using fresh tomatoes

By Justin Miller Special to the Opelika Observer Viruses Affecting Summer Squash Squash is a vegetable commonly seen on many tables during the summer. With many varieties to choose from, there are a lot of ways to prepare this southern favorite.

One common problem that growers deal with are viruses. There are several common viruses that can disfigure the squash, potentially making them undesirable for eating.

Common Viruses In Alabama, there are four common viruses that affect squash plants.

- papaya ringspot virus (PRVS) - zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV) - cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) - watermelon mosaic virus (WMV) Bethany O’Rear, an Alabama Extension regional agent of home grounds, gardens and home pests, said that infected plants can show several symptoms.

“Infections result in stunted, discolored plants.

Leaves may have a mottled appearance or fade to a light-green color,” O’Rear said. “The fruits may be spotted, warty and have an irregular shape.

While extremely unattractive, the fruit is perfectly safe to eat.”

Forum,

from A3 idea that poverty and income inequality are major factors contributing to violence globally.

Solutions to Violence Attendees proposed solutions that included the creation of community programs for teenagers, providing more adult education opportunities, and creating resources to raise awareness of current programs.

For instance, awareness-raising initiatives could help community members to find programs that provide activities for teenagers and education for adults. Tiffany GibsonPitts, who serves on the Opelika City Council, introduced a new

In many cases, the discoloration on the fruit is only skin deep. However, O’Rear said if the fruit has a severely distorted appearance, the texture may not be suitable for eating.

Control Ed Sikora, an Alabama Extension plant pathologist, said these viruses are transmitted by various insects, the main one being aphids.

“Insecticides will not control the spread of these viruses because the aphids are very efficient vectors,” Sikora said.

Insects infect plants immediately after they feed.

As an insect moves from plant to plant, so does the virus. Once infected, there are no chemical options available to control or kill the virus.

According to O’Rear, if a plant is showing symptoms, pull up the entire plant and discard away from the garden. To help prevent future infections, never leave a diseased plant on the perimeter of the garden or in the compost pile. After discarding, clean any gardening tools and gloves used before handling healthy plants.

Prevention The best way to control any of these viruses is by prevention. O’Rear said there are several steps gardeners can take to help prevent infection.

“Always plant resistant varieties,” O’Rear said.

“There are several variet-

ies of cucurbits that are resistant (not immune) to these viruses.”

When planting, be sure to rotate crops. This is great way to control many common garden diseases.

Growers should never plant members of the same plant family in the same area season after season.

Another step to prevent diseases is making sure plants are healthy. Stressed plants are always more susceptible to insect and disease pressure.

O’Rear said that growers should always be on the lookout for changes in a plant.

“If you notice a plant or fruit that looks odd, try to determine the cause sooner rather than later,” O’Rear said. “Early detection is critical to success in controlling the issue and preventing further infection.”

Food Friday: Fresh Tomatoes Tomatoes are a staple in every southern garden.

Put the time spent pruning, watering and fertilizing to good use as you spend time in the kitchen.

Add tomato salad, stuffed tomatoes or Tomatoes Rockefeller to the summer menu.

green pepper 1 tablespoon chopped onion 3 hard cooked egg whites 1 hard-cooked egg 1/4 cup mayonnaise Directions: Plunge tomatoes into boiling water to loosen skins; then take them out and remove the skins. Cut a slice from the top of each tomato and cut out seeds and part of the pulp. Turn the cut end down on paper towels and let them drain for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, chop the pulp into medium-size pieces. Add the celery, cucumber, green pepper, and onion and mix well.

Chop egg and egg whites, and toss to distribute yolk.

Add eggs to the tomato mixture and toss carefully.

Add mayonnaise, a little at a time, and toss. Use only enough to moisten the ingredients. Spoon the tomato mixture into tomato shells and chill before serving. Makes 6 servings.

To make Chicken Salad Tomatoes, follow directions to remove skins.

Turn stem ends down and make 4-6 slits in the top of the tomato. Pull the tomato open and fill with chicken salad.

Stuffed Tomatoes 6 medium tomatoes 1/2 cup chopped celery 1/2 cup chopped cucumber 1 tablespoon chopped

Macaroni and Tomato Salad 1 cup mayonnaise 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

community program that will provide local youths the chance to plan group activities.

One of the points that resonated was that everyone in the community could play a part in reducing violence and improving the community as a whole. Raven Harvis, who works as Regional Director at H&S Commercial and Industrial Services, LLC, described helping employees to fill skills gaps, including assisting workers to obtain their driver’s licenses.

Future Public Discussion Forums The event gave community members a chance to express their perspective, and more forums may be held in the future. “I feel like the event was very well attended,” Krehling said. “We had about 36 people here, and I think

people spoke freely and from the heart, which is what we wanted them to do.” Several attendees and organizers, including Krehling, shared an interest in organizing additional forums in the future to continue to identify and address issues. “ After the event, Dr. Frankie Bell, who serves as the principal of W. F. Burns Middle School, shared her belief that meaningful discussions are crucial to creating positive change.

“Conversations, regardless of how they are perceived, are always powerful,” Bell said.

“It’s about the takeaways and reflections made after we leave here. It’s about what we heard today, what we take away from it, and how it can make us, as a people, better.”

1/8 teaspoon red pepper, or to taste 4 cups cooked elbow macaroni 2 cups chopped tomatoes 1/4 cup chopped ripe olives 1/4 cup chopped green onions with tops 1/2 garlic clove, minced 1/2 cup chopped celery 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese Directions: Combine the mayonnaise, salt and both peppers in a bowl and stir until blended. Combine all remaining ingredients except cheese in a large bowl. Toss lightly until evenly mixed. Add mayonnaise mixture to macaroni mixture and toss lightly.

Cover and chill 8 hours or overnight. Makes 15 servings.

Fried Tomatoes Wash, dry, and cut ripe or green tomatoes in slices.

Dust each side with black pepper and all-purpose flour. Lightly sprinkle with salt; use as little salt as possible. Allow slices to dry some before frying. Brush a little vegetable oil in the bottom of a skillet and heat to medium. Place tomatoes in hot pan and brown.

Turn, lower heat, and brown other side, allowing time for tomato slices to cook. Add drops of oil between slices if needed.

Serve hot. One half of a medium tomato makes 1 serving.

Tomatoes Rockefeller 2 10-ounce packages frozen chopped spinach 4 medium-large tomatoes 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder 2 tablespoons parsley 1/4 cup finely chopped green onion with tops 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2 tablespoons skim milk (optional) Butter-flavor vegetable cooking spray Directions: Cook spinach as directed on package.

Drain well. Wash tomatoes and cut in half crosswise.

Combine bread crumbs, garlic powder, parsley, onion, salt, pepper, cheese Worcestershire sauce, and oil with spinach and mic well.

If mixture is too dry, add enough milk to make it hold its shape. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray and arrange tomato halves on it with cut side up. Mound the spinach mixture on top of tomatoes. Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.

These recipes and many others can be found in the Auburn Cookbook, a product of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

Honor a small business in the area by nominating them for the ‘Small Business of the Quarter Award.’ The award will be given out at the upcoming ‘Business Over Breakfast’ on Aug. 22.

Deadline to enter a business is Aug. 6.

Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: • July 31 - Jack Barksdale and Ben Danaher at The Sound Wall Aug. 2 and 3 - Auburn-Opelika Wildlife Festival Aug. 2 - Beauregard Strong Benefit Night Aug. 10 - Futral Artifact Show at VEC

Serve colorful treats for children’s birthday parties Ann Cipperly’s

Southern

Hospitality

W

hether it is a child’s birthday party or back to school get together, plan on having plenty of delicious treats. Let the children help decorate cupcakes, cakes and cookies.

Have assorted sprinkles and colored candy for them to select the colors they like the best.

When my children were growing up, I made their birthday cakes every year. As the grandchildren came along, I have enjoyed baking their cakes and cupcakes, and letting them help decorate. It has created many trea-

sured memories.

Over the years, I took a couple of cake decorating classes, but didn’t want to put the practice time into doing fancy flowers and designs. You don’t need a class to create stars and rosettes.

Just insert the tip into a plastic pastry bag or a plastic zip-lock bag with a corner cut off. It is even easier if you get the frosting tubes with a tip attached, and kids can help decorate cupcakes and cakes too.

My favorite tip is one that makes a simple flower. I can make dozens of these in little

time. I will make the flower one color and add a dot in the center Photo by Ann Cipperly in another shade.

Ice Cream Cone Cakes are attractive and easy for children to hold and eat. Serve plenty of I have covered cakes delectable treats for children’s birthdays or back to school parties. Let children or grandchildren help bake and decorate for the party and create wonderful memories. in these drop flowers.

Since I know children second cake on top grocery store. When it stacking a couple of like the flowers and and frost. If you have comes to my family, Bundt cakes covered will fuss over them, concerns about getting in frosting and finished though, I am always I will drop dozens of the cake out of the pan, thinking homemade. with colored stars. these flowers onto you can line the pan Sometimes with Then, the Barbie was waxed paper and let with foil to just peel party cakes I have placed in the center. them dry. Once they skipped the pastry bags off the cake once it is I made a few of are dry, I garnish the flipped. Just be sure to and designed birthday these using homemade cake with more of grease the foil well or pound cakes. One time greetings and their these and then bank the I stacked three of the name in M & M’s can- spray with Pam. base with bunches that I made a chocolate dies. This works better pound cakes that was creates a stunning cake. really over the top with on sheet cakes. cake like this one time One granddaughter for a groom’s cake and If it is a large party, a huge skirt. Now I am liked Barbie dolls, so garnished the top with I will bake two sheet thinking I could have I decided to recreate green grapes and other cakes and stack them. saved a lot of time if I a cake I saw that had I will frost one of the had purchased Bundt a full skirt made by cakes, then place the pound cakes at the See Cipperly, page A11

Village Event Center in Opelika Registration now open for to host Auburn-Opelika Wildlife The Sound Wall's inaugural Festival Aug. 3 'Opelika Songwriter's Retreat' Special to the Opelika Observer

See a sloth, make friends with an armadillo or encounter an opossum at the Auburn-Opelika Wildlife Festival Aug. 2 and 3 at the Village Event Center.

Dozens of animals will be on display during this interactive and educational event taking place from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. each day.

There will be multiple opportunities throughout the festival to enjoy educa-

Oct. 17 through 20

By Morgan Bryce Editor

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

See Wildlife, page A8

Registration is now open for the inaugural 2019 Opelika Songwriters Retreat Oct. 17 through 20, hosted by Rob and Jen Slocumb of The Sound Wall.

Costing $550, registration covers the cost of lodging at a nearby historic guest home, three dinners and two

lunches during the retreat. Acclaimed artists Jeff Black and Cliff Eberhardt will conduct songwriting classes and 1-on-1 song coaching for retreat participants, the Slocumbs will teach elective courses and there will be song circles each of the three evenings.

On Oct. 19 at 7:30 p.m., Black, Eberhardt

and the Slocumbs will perform an instructor concert at John Emerald Distillery in downtown Opelika. Tickets to that one-night event cost $25 and can be purchased through www.eventbrite.com.

Following are brief biographies on the artists sent in a press release from The Sound See Retreat, page A9

Monday-Saturday 11 AM - 8 PM

pelika O Observer

A8 July 31, 2019

Annual Horseshoe Bend National Military Park Symposium Aug. 24 Special to the Opelika Observer

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park invites the public to attend its annual symposium at Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts and Humanities (also known as Pebble Hill) in Auburn. This free event will be Aug. 24, 2019 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Acting Superintendent Valerie Saferite

Wildlife,

from A7

tional presentations. The reptiles and invertebrates program will be at the following times: 10:15 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:45 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. The mammals and birds program will be offered at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

There will be 30 live animals for guests to meet, including a sloth,

states, “This year’s symposium will commemorate the bicentennial of Alabama’s statehood with presentations focused on Alabama’s earliest historians and their insights into Creek Indian history, the Creek War and the Battle of Horseshoe Bend. Join them Aug. 24 to enhance your understanding of central Alabama’s fascinating history and learn more about the stories associated with Horseshoe

Bend National Military Park.”

Speakers will include Dr. Kathryn Braund, Hollifield Professor of Southern History at Auburn University; Dr. James Pate, professor emeritus at the University of West Alabama; Dr. John Ellisor of Columbus State University and Dr. Alex Colvin of Alabama Department of Archives and History.

This event is made possible thanks to partnerships with Auburn

University’s Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts and Humanities at Pebble Hill, the National Park Service, and the Friends of Horseshoe Bend.

The symposium is free to the public and no registration is required.

Pebble Hill is located at 101 S. Debardeleben St. in Auburn.

For more information on Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, visit www.nps.gov/hobe or call 256-234-7111.

porcupine, armadillo, snakes, opossum, bunnies, ferrets, snakes, tarantulas, tortoises, lizards, frogs and more. Some animals will only come out during the presentations, so be sure to stay for both.

For families with children with special needs who are affected by crowds, there will be an early opening at 9 a.m. on Aug. 3. This first hour will be open to their families as well.

The Wildlife Festival is an all-ages event pre-

sented by the Foundation for Animal Rescue & Education in partnership with Little Ray’s Nature Centers, the Sloth Conservation Foundation and the Wildlife Conservation Society.

To buy tickets, visit www.fare.whitelabeltickets.com/en/pages/opelika.

For more information, call 334-500-2878. The venue is located at 804 Columbus Parkway.

About Little Ray’s Nature Center: Little Ray’s Wildlife Festivals bring fun

animal encounters and nature education to communities throughout North America. Little Ray’s Nature Centre's events are made possible through a partnership with The Foundation for Animal Rescue and Education (FARE). Visit http://littleraysnaturecentres.com/festival/ to find information about one can expect to see and do there, how they accommodate individuals with special needs and how they ensure animal welfare.

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

Buying or Selling?

Call:

Lisa Thrift (334) 444-8099 “I can get you where you want to be...Home” Photos by Robert Noles/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.

lthrift1984@gmail.com

www.thedensongroup.com

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 Retreat,

from A7 Wall staff.

About Black: “Black’s songs have earned Grammy recognition, radio charttopping stats and numerous BMI awards.

Although flying below the radar as a performer himself, he has been recognized

by NPR as a musical pioneer in the digital age and his catalogue of critically acclaimed

albums continues to grow. Composing music for film and television, his credits include numerous indie-film soundtracks and a repertoire of songs cuts by artists as diverse as Alison Krauss & Union Statiion, BlacHawk, Dierks Bentley, Jerry Douglas, John Oates, Jon Randall, Sam Bush and Waylon Jennings. Black has forged a reputation as a true folk troubador entertaining audiences globally for more

than three decades.

A master songwriter and performer in the tradition of the great storytellers, his passionate, soul-driven live performances of songs from his vast catalog are not to be missed.”

About Eberhardt: “Eberhardt’s song “My Father’s Shoes” appeared on Windham Hill’s Legacy Collection, leading to a deal with the label. They released Eberhardt’s first album “The Long Road” in 1990, a work

featuring a duet with Richie Havens. The critical response to this debut was outstanding, with The Philadelphia Enquirer calling the album a “repeatedly astounding collection.”

He followed with two more records on Windham Hill before releasing “12 Songs of Good and Evil” in 1997 on Red House Records, which stemmed from a chance meeting with Red House Founder Bob Feldman at John Gorka’s wedding. Eberhardt recorded two

A9 July 31, 2019 more albums before his critically acclaimed “The High Above and the Down Below” released in 2007 was named as the no. 5 album of the year by USA Today.”

About the Slocumbs: “Rob and Jen Slocumb have been performing as Martha's Trouble for a couple of decades, playing the acoustic songwriter circuit across Canada and United States.

Their original music defies easy categoriza-

tion but uses elements from folk, pop and Americana. They have an international fan base and 12 studio recordings to their credit.

Their album Sleeping Dogs won Best Americana Album of the Year at The Just Plain Folk Awards in Los Angeles.

For more information, call 334-575-3477 or send email to Event Assistant Kate Hood at kate@thesoundwallopelika.com. The venue is located at 605 Ave. B.

Photos special to the Opelika Observer

A10 July 31, 2019

pelika Observer O

James Brown Trio perform at Summer Swing

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

pelika O Observer Cipperly,

from A7

fruits.

My niece Amanda, who lives in Birmingham, used to cater amazing cakes before she had five children.

She now uses her talent to create incredible birthday cakes for her children. For one birth-

Recipes, Ice Cream Cone Cakes Susie Litkenhous 1 box rainbow/confetti cake mix or your choice 24 flat-bottom ice cream cones Favorite frosting, colored if desired Sprinkles Place paper baking cups in 24 regular-size muffin cups. Prepare cake batter as directed on box. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups (two-thirds full). Place ice cream cones upside down on batter in each cup.

Bake 16 to 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in cake comes out clean (cones may tilt on batter).

Cool completely, about 30 minutes.

Remove paper cups.

Generously frost cake with frosting, and decorate as desired.

Colorful Cake Pops Heather Cummings 1 cake mix of choice 1/2 - 3/4 container prepared frosting of choice 2 bags white or colored candy melts Lollipop sticks Assorted sprinkles, piped icing Prepare cake mix according to package directions for a 9 by 13-inch pan. Let cool, but not completely.

While still warm, put baked cake in a large mixing bowl, and use your hands to crumble the entire cake.

Add 1/2 - 3/4 of frosting to cake and mix until well moistened. Put mixture in refrigerator to cool.

Roll cake mixture into 1-inch balls. Should make 35-40 cake balls. Put balls in freezer to set. Do not allow to freeze completely.

Melt candy melts or almond bark in a bowl. Stir until completely smooth.

Dip lollipop into melted bark, then place stick into the center of cake ball. Can stick the pops in Styrofoam to harden.

Decorate using piped icing, sprinkles, etc.

Decorated Cupcakes with Perfect Frosting June Woodham Cake mix or brownie mix of choice Perfect Frosting, recipe follows Candies for decorating Bake mini or regular cupcakes as directed on cake mix. Spread with My Favorite Frosting and decorate with candies.

Perfect Frosting 1/2 cup solid vegetable shortening 1/2 cup butter, melted 4 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar 2 Tbsp. milk With an electric mixer, beat shortening and butter until smooth; add confectioners’ sugar. Add milk and continue beating until creamy.

White Cake with

day party, she made a stunning cake shaped as a colorful fish.

One year at Thanksgiving she arrived at our home with a cake that looked just like a roasted turkey with stuffing falling out. I expect one day when her children are older she will be on the Food Network.

If that is not your desire, there are easier Vanilla Frosting Birthday Cake or Cupcakes Holly Muncie 1 white cake mix 1 cup whole milk 1 stick butter, melted 3 eggs 2 tsp. vanilla Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line muffin tin with cupcake holders or prepare cake pans with Pam with flour.

Place all ingredients in mixing bowl. Beat on low for 1 minute; scrape sides. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.

Divide evenly among cupcake holders or cake pans.

Bake according to cake mix directions or until golden.

Remove from oven; cool in pan 5-10 minutes.

Remove and continue cooling on a rack. Do not frost until completely cool.

Vanilla Frosting 1/2 cup solid Crisco 4 tsp. vanilla 6 cups powdered sugar 1/3 to 1/2 cup milk Mix Crisco, vanilla, sugar, and 1/3 cup milk until smooth. Beat this for a long time to get it fluffy -- you cannot over beat it. Add remaining milk, if needed. If it looks too thin, add more sugar. Too thick, add more milk. Mix in food coloring, if desired.

Pipe onto cupcakes with a star tip (32 or 1M) in a Ziploc or piping bag. Keep refrigerated for an hour or two before serving.

Birthday Party Ice Cream An easy method of serving ice cream at a birthday party is scooping the ice cream into paper liners in a muffin tin ahead of time. At the party, remove from freezer and peel off papers for individual ice cream servings.

Rainbow Slushies Susie Litkenhous 4 bottles brightly colored sport drinks 4 to 8 ice cube trays Resealable plastic freezer storage bags Pour sport drinks into separate ice cube trays and freeze overnight.

Just before serving, pop frozen cubes into plastic bags, one color at a time. Close bag and smash cubes with rolling pin.

Layer the different colored ice slush in clear glasses to make colorful combinations.

Serve with straws.

Dipped Marshmallows Carol Pridgen Bag of large or jumbo marshmallows Lollipop sticks Almond bark or candy melts Assorted sprinkles

ways to make attractive treats your children will adore.

The Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes are lovely and easy for children to hold and eat.

Instead of colored frosting, you can make them with white buttercream and chocolate to look like ice cream.

To keep them sturdy for serving, place them in a tray or glass pan

filled with M&M’s or other candies to secure them.

When you are planning a party for children, you will want to be careful that everything you serve is fully cooked. I can hardly believe some of the cake and cookie pop recipes I see online. Do not serve any of these uncooked: eggs, flour, cake or brownie mix or

Put marshmallows on lollipop sticks. Melt candy coating according to directions on bag. Dip marshmallows in coating and roll in sprinkles.

Place marshmallows on wax paper lined cookie sheet to cool.

These can be placed in cellophane bags as party favors.

Option: Marshmallows can be dipped in caramel, then chocolate and rolled in nuts or peppermints.

½ cup chopped peanuts ¼ cup peanut butter Combine butter, milk and cocoa in a heavy saucepan; bring to a boil, stirring constantly.

Remove from heat. Add remaining ingredients; beat at medium speed of an electric mixer until frosting is smooth.

Creamy Chocolate Frosting 1 stick butter 5 Tbsp. cocoa 6 Tbsp. milk 1 box confectioners’ sugar 2 tsp. vanilla In a small saucepan, combine butter, cocoa and milk; bring to a boil.

Remove from heat. Add confectioners’ sugar and stir in vanilla.

Oreo Cookie Pops Oreo Double Stuff cookies Lollipop sticks White almond bark or colored candy melts Sprinkles Insert lollipop stick into filling. Dip cookies into melted almond bark.

Cover with sprinkles.

Place on wax paper to cool.

Fresh Fruit and Dip Heather Cummings 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened 3/4 cup packed brown sugar 1 tsp. vanilla extract Assorted fresh fruit In a bowl, combine cream cheese, brown sugar and vanilla; mix well. Serve with fresh fruit for dipping. Refrigerate leftovers.

Chocolate Sour Cream Cake Birthday Cake with Peanut Butter or Chocolate Frosting 2 cups sugar 2 cups flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt 1 cup water 1 cup butter or margarine ¼ cup cocoa 2 eggs, beaten 1 or 2 tsp. vanilla ½ cup sour cream Chocolate-Peanut Butter Frosting Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine sugar, flour, soda and salt in a large bowl; mix well and set aside.

Combine water, butter and cocoa in a heavy saucepan; bring to a boil, stirring constantly.

Gradually stir hot mixture into flour mixture; stir well. Stir in eggs, vanilla and sour cream; mix well. Pour into a greased and floured 13 by 9 inch pan for 25 to 30 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool. Frost with Chocolate-Peanut Butter Frosting or Creamy Chocolate Frosting.

Freezes well.

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Frosting ½ cup butter or margarine ¼ cup plus 2 Tbsp. milk ¼ cup cocoa 16 oz. box powdered sugar, sifted 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Nutella Krispie Treats Heather Cummings 6 Tbsp. salted butter, divided 1 bag large marshmallows 1/8 tsp. salt 1/3 cup Nutella hazelnut spread 6 cups Rice Krispies 1½ cups miniature marshmallows ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted Melt 4 Tbsp. butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add marshmallows and salt and stir until melted.

Halfway through melting process, add Nutella.

When Nutella and marshmallows are melted, add additional two Tbsp. butter and stir until smooth. Melt chocolate chips over a double boiler until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Add Rice Krispies to a large bowl and fold in the Nutella mixture. When it is almost all combined, add mini-marshmallows to the bowl, then continue folding until combined.

Immediately press mixture into a thoroughly greased 9x13-inch pan.

Drizzle semi-sweet chocolate all over the top of the treats.

Kiddos Trail Mix Heather Cummings 1 cup Cheerios toasted oat cereal 1 cup Goldfish crackers 1 cup dried cranberries (or other favorite dried fruit) 1 cup cashews (or other favorite nuts) 1 cup M&M’s chocolate candies 1 cup peanut butter chips 1 cup miniature pretzel twists or pretzel sticks

Upside Down Confetti Treats Melissa Harris 1/2 cup miniature candy-coated semi-sweet chocolate pieces 3 Tbsp. butter 4 cups miniature marshmallows 6 cups rice cereal Coat 13 by 9-inch pan with cooking spray.

Evenly sprinkle candy on

A11 July 31, 2019 raw cookie dough. All of these things must be cooked.

Also be sure the serving containers are food safe. Just this week I saw someone on television telling people they didn’t need to use those covered containers for food outdoors. She said they could use shower caps, which are not for use with food and could have lead dyes, bottom of pan.

Set aside.

In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted.

Remove from heat.

Add rice cereal. Stir until well coated.

Using buttered spatula evenly press mixture over candy in pan. Cool. Cut into 2-inch squares. Serve candy side up. Best if served the same day.

Decorate Your Own Cookies June Woodham Make large sugar cookies (can use ones from a tube). Provide two or three flavors of store bought icing, plastic knives and a variety of toppings, including sprinkles, crushed cookies, chopped candy bars, marshmallows, etc.

Loaded Pretzels Gail Swarthout 1 pkg. (10 oz.) pretzel rods 1 pkg. (14 oz.) caramels 1 Tbsp. evaporated milk 1 ¼ cups miniature semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 cup plus 2 Tbsp. butterscotch chips 2/3 cup milk chocolate toffee bits ¼ cup chopped walnuts, toasted Melt caramels with evaporated milk. Dip pretzels in coatings in order given.

Brownie Pops Gail Swarthout (Can use brownie mix instead of making homemade brownies) ½ cup melted butter 1 cup sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 2 eggs 1/3 cup cocoa ¼ tsp. baking powder 14 tsp. salt Melting wafers Assorted sprinkles Baking: In a bowl, stir together ½ cup melted butter, 1 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla. Add 2 eggs, and beat mixture well. In another bowl, stir together 1/3 cup cocoa, ¼ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Add dry mixture to wet mixture, beating until blended.

Spray brownie pop mold (can use mini muffin tins) with cooking spray, and fill cavities with batter. There is enough batter for 16 cavities.

Bake in preheated 350 degree oven for about 20 minutes. Cool and release brownie mold. Brownies can be frozen for decorating later, if desired.

Coating and decorating: For coating and decorating, we use

and are made with plastic that is not safe around food. If it is not made for use with food, do not use it.

Look over the following recipes and treat your princess or prince to a memorable birthday party with all their favorite favors in a rainbow of colors.

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

Wilton or Merckens brand melting chocolate wafers.

To attach sticks, melt a small amount of chocolate as per instructions on wafer package. Dip the lollipop sticks into the melted chocolate, and then poke into brownies. When chocolate hardens, it will help sticks to adhere to brownies.

Melt enough chocolate wafers to completely coat the brownie pop.

Dip brownies into melted chocolate, and remove any excess.

If you use sprinkles or candy to decorate, quickly add them at this stage.

Immediately place dipped brownie onto a wax paper or parchment paper coated cookie sheet in the refrigerator, and allow chocolate to harden. If you are drizzling colored melted chocolate to decorate, do so when base coat is already hardened, and place back in refrigerator to allow colored chocolate to set.

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 31, 2019

OBITUARIES Martha Ann Hillyer Sharpe Martha Ann Hillyer Sharpe died peacefully at her home in Opelika on July 20, 2019. She was born February 9, 1937 in Birmingham, AL to the late Flossie Mae and Robert Orr Foster.

Martha graduated from Opelika’s Clift High School in 1955 and married her high school sweetheart, Phillip Hillyer and they were married 37

years until his death in 1992. Phillip and Martha ran Hillyer’s Grocery Store.

Martha is preceded in death by her brother, Robert Foster of Opelika and her sister, Tommie Lowe of San Bernadino, California.

In 1997, Martha married her long-time friend, Doug Sharpe.

She is survived by her husband, Doug Sharpe, her daughter, Lisa Hillyer Worthington of Opelika her sister, Maggi

Kyle Jones Kyle Jones was promoted into Heaven on Saturday, July 27, 2019 joining His Savior. Kyle was born on February 28th, 1980. Faith, Family, and Friends truly sums up the wonderful life God gave Kyle Jones. He lived a life of love for others.

He loved to fish, hunt, and he loved to cook. He lived life to the fullest. Kyle was loved and known for his sense of humor and smile. He was a hugger, encourager, and enjoyed people wherever he went.

He took joy in loving his wife and daughters. He was loved by family and the whole community.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Frank and Marie Jones, and Dr. Calvin Denney.

Kyle Jones is survived by his wife Hollie Jones; his step children, Dalton Cooper, Mallory Cooper, and Morgan Cooper; his parents, Frank and Deborah Jones; his in-laws, Larry and Judy Bein; his grandmother, Mrs. Wilma Denney; his brother Dr. Kirk Jones (wife Brittan Jones); his nephew, Henry

Ewing of Atlanta, Georgia, her stepson Wade(Valerie) Sharpe and their daughters, Savannah, Breelyn and Vayda of Opelika.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Kindred Hospice as well as Dr. Hiren Patel and special caregiver, Ann Poythress.

A graveside service was held at Garden Hills Cemetery, Opelika, Alabama on July 23, 2019 at 11 a.m.

Jones, and many uncles, aunts, cousins and friends.

Kyle graduated from Lee Scott Academy and majored in accounting at Auburn University. He was a Certified Fraud Examiner and Certified Information Systems, Security Professional. He was employed at Southern Preparatory Academy as an accountant.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at First Baptist Church of Opelika in the Mary Denson Samford Parlor from 10:00 a.m. until 11:45 a.m.

The Celebration of Life Service will follow the visitation in the Sanctuary at 12:00 noon with Dr. Jeff Meyers and Dr. Mike King officiating. The Pallbearers are Dr. Clint Streetman, Cam Streetman, Caleb Leikfold, Mark Stillwell, Gus Pinyerd, and Heath Stewart.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations to be sent to Southern Preparatory Academy, 174 Ward Circle, Camp Hill, Alabama 36850.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home is directing.

Marvin Dalton Henderson Mr. Marvin Dalton Henderson of Opelika, Alabama passed away peacefully with family at his side on Sunday, July 21, 2019.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willard Spoffard and Nila A. Henderson and his loving wife, Rita Wilkes Henderson.

Mr. Henderson is survived by his children: Donna Elaine Henderson (Walt Sobczyk), Teresa Faith Whidden-Buster

Kenneth L. “Kenny” Noble A funeral service for Kenneth L. “Kenny” Noble, 73, of Opelika, was held at 11 a.m. on July 26, 2019, at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home. Dr. Jeff Myers officiated.

Burial followed in Garden Hill Cemetery. Visitation was one hour prior to the service.

Mr. Noble passed away July 24, 2019. He was born September 7, 1945 in Memphis, Tennessee.

He was a member of First Baptist Church, Opelika where he served as usher and greeter for many years. He was a loving and devoted husband and step-father, loyal friend and was cherished by

(Tom) and Sandra Lynn Griffin (Brian); grandchildren: Jeremy Whidden (Whitney), Daniel Kirkley (Lakin) Jessica Whidden; great grandchild: Brody Kirkley; siblings: Brenda Woods, Drayton Henderson, and Parker Henderson.

He served in the Army National Guard and was a proud graduate of the Auburn University class of 1972. He was a Board Member for the Airview Church of God. Marvin was plant manager for Uniroyal and later Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Com-

those who knew him.

Mr. Noble was preceded in death by his parents, James O. Noble and Louise Noble, also by his brother James O. (Jim) Noble, Jr. Mr. Noble served his country in the United States Army, 101 Airborne Division and also served in the Vietnam War. Mr. Noble is survived by his wife, Betty J. Noble, his Step-daughter and Son-in-law, Cindy and Jeff Smith, his sister-inlaw, Mary Kimbrough and his nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be sent to First Baptist Building Fund, Opelika, Alabama.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

Lung, Throat, Stomach, Colon Cancer or Breathing Problems?

Asbestos exposure in the Military, Iron/Steel, Construction, Papermill, Shipyard, Manufacturing etc. may be the cause. $30 billion set aside for asbestos victims.

Call 1-619-332-4014 or email cancerAL@breakinginjurynews.com FREE SCREENING for breathing problems

Betty Chester Gulley Betty Chester Gulley was born April 25, 1937 in Toccoa, Georgia.

She had been a resident of the Opelika/Salem area since 1979.

Mrs. Gulley was a homemaker, caring for her husband, Charles Gulley who preceded her in death in 2015. She was a member of the Living Church of God in Columbus, Georgia.

She is survived by her daughters, Teresa Gulley, of Opelika, and Shari (Mark) Swann of Marietta, Georgia; sons, Charles M. "Mickey" Gulley of Acworth, Georgia, and Aaron Gulley of San Antonio, Texas; seven grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren.

Funeral service was held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home on July 28, 2019 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Dan Hall officiating.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.

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pany. Most recently, he worked as an Ombudsman in the Workmans Compensation Department for the State of Alabama and retired in 2016.

Visitation was held on July 23 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life was held on July 24 at 11 a.m. at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home.

Because Marvin loved all animals, the family request in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Lee County Humane Society. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed.

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A13

Holy Intimacy with God

herubim were everywhere in the tabernacle— no matter where you were you couldn’t escape their presence. If you stood in the holy place as the priests did, they were woven into its curtains (Exodus 26:1). If you were passing from the holy place into the holy of holies as only the high priest could on the Day of Atonement, they were woven into the curtain separating the two (26:31).

Once inside the holy of holies, you would see two cherubim on opposite ends of the

cover of the ark of the covenant with their wings spread, staring down at the cover (25:17-20). It was there between the cherubim that Yahweh said he would meet with Israel and give them His commands (25:22).

Cherubim were many things, but they represented the other worldliness of God that we call His holiness. God is not like us—He is holy. He is what we aren’t. The world He inhabits is holy (see the vision Isaiah has in Isaiah 6 or John has in Revelation 4).

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

When we enter into God’s presence, we enter into another world that is unlike ours. The high priest entered only after having blood sprinkled upon him. We enter through the blood of Jesus (Hebrews 10:19).

Our prayers come before God Jesus because “hallowed” is God’s name (i.e., nature

-Matthew 6:9).

In all of this, the majestic wholeness of God is being contrasted with our fragmentation due to sin.

When we become casual about God and make Him a projection of our wants and desires, then we become a casualty.

But because He is holy, God desires to merge His world into ours.

That is why we are to pray that “Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (6:10).

This is why God has always made provision for man to draw near to him despite his

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 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

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

July 31, 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

email to brandi@theway2serve.org.

• Aug. 4 - First Baptist Church’s Women’s Ministry will hold a Back-to-School Prayer Event Aug. 4 from 5 to 6 p.m. in the 3:16 Center.

This will be an evening full of prayer for children and teachers during the coming school year.

• 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

sinfulness. As Karl Barth so eloquently noted, “He does not will to be God for Himself nor as God to be alone with Himself. He wills as God to be for us and with us who are not God.” God is for us and wants to be with us! That’s one of the overarching messages we are to see in the sections on the tabernacle in Exodus. When we read of all of the details involved in building the tabernacle, the minutiae concerning the priests’ clothing or all of the intricacies of the sacrificial system,

rather than getting paralysis from analysis we are to understand them as emphasizing the truth that spanning the gulf between man and God was no small thing. All of these complexities point to the task that God would ultimately take on Himself through His son Jesus.

The relationship we have with God is one of holy intimacy. It is neither casual nor cold and formalistic. It is a healthy balance of realness and reverence.

The same writer who tells us to See Green, page A14

Verse of the Week

“I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.”

Psalm 16:8 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

pelika Observer O

A14 July 31, 2019

Community Calendar: Events around town

• Aug. 10 - Grand opening of Opelika SportsPlex’s new pickleball facilities, starting at 10 a.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 334528-4197 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

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:

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.

• 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

Upcoming Events • Aug 1 - EAMC Medical Records Department is moving to Building 28 in the Medical Arts Center located at121 N 20th St.) As a result, medical records can be obtained at the new location beginning on Aug. 2. The office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

• Aug. 3 - Opelika SportsPlex Tri for Kids • Aug. 3 - Back-toSchool Bash at Samford Pool • Aug. 5 - Lee County Voter’s League monthly meeting will be at 6 p.m. on Aug.

5 at Bethesda Baptist Church which is located at 201 South 4th St. in Opelika Eddie Compton from Alabama Unite will have a follow-up presentation to the Voters League on training and coordinating with other organisations working toward similar ends/goals.

• Aug. 10 - Auburn Football Fan Day from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the school’s indoor practice facility.

• Aug. 13 - Mend the Heart - Tornado Relief Benefit Auction at the Jules Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts

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

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

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

The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants.

Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 334-737-5215 or cheri.paradice@gmail.com for more information or luncheon location of the month.

• 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 “approach the throne of grace with confidence” (Hebrews 4:16), also says, “let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe for our God is a consuming fire” (12:28-29). Fundamental to walking is balance. Fundamental to our walk as followers of Jesus is the balance of holy intimacy.

Green has written an entry-level book on Revelation called “The Thrill of Hope.”

It is available through Amazon.

pelika Observer O

A15 July 31, 2019

An ‘Alabama Bucket List’:Spectre & Prattville Bamboo Forest • Jackson Lake Island, Millbrook - Town of Spectre • Bamboo Forest - Wilderness Park, Prattville ach new adventure brings the thrill of seeing an unknown place. The excitement with each trip leads to more eagerness for the next and the next, a rippling effect.

We are officially hooked on this bucket list journey.

Alabama is the beautiful and we are only at the surface of this great journey.

I’m a person who loves spontaneity, and the fun of striking out on a Saturday morning with no timecrunched agenda was music to my soul. With the boys wanting to stay home and farm, Sissy and I hit this one up together. It was the perfect day for the two of us. We struck out around noon and returned home by 6 p.m.

I have been a fan of the movie Big Fish since it came out when I was in college. I haven’t watched a lot of Tim Burton films, but the imagination, love story and tall tales of this movie have always drawn my attention.

While researching for our bucket list months ago, I found out you could visit the movie set in Millbrook.

I was quick to add this to our list, and the destination was beyond our expectations.

Located just an hour from Auburn, Jackson Lake Island is a park frequented by visitors who want to enjoy family time, cool off from the summer heat or visit Spectre.

There was a $6 entrance fee into this gated, secluded hideaway. We saw a few campers set up as well as kayakers and fisherman.

The island is pristine and well kept. It is obvious that it’s a secret spot not yet overtaken by tourists like ourselves.

We pulled into canopies of towering oak trees covered in beautiful waves of moss. Luscious tall grass and silk topped still waters was our backdrop.

Sissy was surprised to see stubbled, old large trees growing out of the lake waters. With not many people around, this made for a peaceful and quiet outing.

To our pleasant surprise

E

we saw a sign that read “Goat Crossing.” We were a bit confused until moments later we began to see miniature goats passing in front of us. We both grinned from ear to ear.

I quickly parked our car to partake in the fun.

We saw babies and mommas, old goats with long horns and black goats with no horns, roaming and eating and enjoying goat heaven with no alarm or worry to the few people stopping to pet them. It was the cutest and happiest experience. We followed them around laughing and petting them, enjoying the splendor of the setting.

Baby goats were heard in the distance, calling out “Maaaaaa, Maaaaa... .”

It was the funniest sight to see and hear. Soon the mother would wander back into sight, and the wee one running up with joy as if it had been missing for ages. Sissy and I laughed and awed for what seemed like hours. Time stood still for us, she and I wrapped in each other, wrapped up in an island of beauty and goats.

After taking a gazillion pictures and videos, we stepped away from the goats to visit Spectre. The entrance is framed by a man-made structure of old forbidden trees locking limbs at the top to form a canopy. A reminder that Hollywood can make anything look realistic, and the perfect setup for a kodak

Bradley Robertson moment with your kid.

We giggled as we walked into this random and whimsical place, the sky full of blue and a road leading to a perfectly steepled white church.

Sissy full of interest and questions, me full of joy and content, experiencing something new with my girl.

We walked past the abandoned homes and I pictured myself in the middle of lights, people, music and Ewen McGregor. I laughed at myself out loud.

How odd it was a movie brought us to this place.

In these moments, I realize creating fun and memories is not about extravagant or fanfare, it’s about being still and seeing your life before you. Watching my little girl smile and feeling the sun on my skin.

Petting a floppy eared goat and feeling like a child again.

Sissy and I hung around for an hour or so. We had to muster up the want to leave this enchanting place.

& Flea Mall

VINTAGE LUGGAGE SET

Honestly, we could have stayed here all day. I pictured my boys running around, wild and free and me sitting on a blanket with my favorite book. I plan to return in the fall. This is the place to go to do absolutely nothing and enjoy everything.

The next stop for the day was in Prattville, only 20 minutes from Jackson Lake. Our destination was a bamboo forest as known as Wilderness Park. I had never driven in or through Prattville and was very pleased to see great shopping as well as lovely old homes. It’s a quick access off the interstate, making our trip home easy.

I saw pictures of the bamboo forest on “This is Alabama of Instagram.” I was eager to add it to the list, knowing you don’t often find bamboo in Alabama.

The park was quick to find, nestled in a neighborhood in the historic district.

It has a small, shaded parking lot and a detailed

sign giving the history of the park as well as how it is used today.

Sissy had never seen bamboo. “Is it real,” she asked. “It feels like plastic.”

I assured her it was the real deal. She was amazed, as was I just by seeing it tall and lovely, towering above our heads.

We walked along a groomed path, tall bamboo shoots in all directions, its tiny leaves hovering high above for shade. Bamboo ranged in colors from sage green to bright lime green, deep yellows and light greys. Some were found to be thin and others were quite thick like tree trunks.

We heard frogs deep throat calls from the marshes along the path.

We soon found a small entrance into a larger section of forest. We snuck in to find a quiet scene of bamboo three stories tall surrounded by a running creek. It created for us a hideaway, tiny patches of

sunlight peeking through green leaves, high above our heads.

I found that bamboo shoots straight up for some distance, then eventually falls to one side, so what you see appears to be branches hovering above.

They mix and match and turn into each other, so you cannot tell one bamboo from another, creating a perfect natural canopy.

We took our time wandering around and taking in the view. Sissy and I held hands, speaking of how cool and different nature can be from one place to the next, all of it good and breathtaking in its own way.

Wilderness Park is unique, unlike anything else in Alabama. It makes a great pit-stop for families, a place to see something lovely and remarkable.

With every adventure, I realize what a glorious See Summer, page A16

Photo by Bradley Robertson/Opelika Observer

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

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pelika Observer O

A16 July 31, 2019

Sean Dietrich touches hearts, wow crowds at George’s Farmers Market

By Bradley Robertson For the Opelika Observer Months ago, I began reading the work of Sean Dietrich. His short, simple tales of the South will make you laugh and melt your heart. I heard he was an excellent performer and took it upon myself to contact his booking agent, his wife Jamie. The rest is history.

They agreed, I agreed and we pulled it off, the most unpredictable and fantastic Southern night on our farm in LaFayette.

One thing that has always stuck out to me about George’s is the different walks of life and people that have come in and out of our store during the last three years. Rural folks and city folks, young and old, clean cut and poor cut, perfect teeth and no teeth at all, families of all shapes and sizes, and I have loved them all. Every one of them has mattered, even the man that told me once that our watermelon wasn’t fit for a hog. He broke my heart, but I recovered, moved on and lived to tell the story.

Seeing Sean pull up at our store and walk inside, was something I will never forget. He stood tall and thin, with a thick red beard.

He wore a red shirt and a red baseball cap, hard to miss ‘em. I knew it was

going to be a night like no other. Wild is just about always in our cards, but so is amazing. I knew we would witness something great, and we did.

Sean was polite and chatty and acted as if this was all the normal world to him. He was accommodating and we made some quickie changes on his stage, as we were pretty certain the rain was going to set in.

Before too long, the band was set up and Sean and his boys began to put on a practice show. Little Shep sat high on the counter staring Sean down as he began playing an accordion. As Isaac and I scurried around for last minute details, I stopped us both and locked eyes with him, “this is going to be awesome,” I said.

The farmer agreed and soon cars were pulling in by the masses.

Along with cars came dark clouds and slow deep rounds of thunder.

George’s has a highpitched roof made of tin, when the rain pours you cannot hear yourself think, nevertheless another person, or even a band. I was too busy hosting to think about it.

Crowds of folks began to pour into our store, folding chairs in hand and mini coolers. They were packing in tight and I could

not even watch. It was like a circus tent full of mismatched people. Here and there and everywhere.

No one cared that they didn’t know their new neighbor so close to them.

The crowd was instant best friends. If we’re all going to have a good time, we might as well go ahead and get close.

And just like that, the rain came tumbling down.

It poured. It was loud and it was coming in on all sides. In my normal façade, I smiled as if nothing odd was happening at all. I nodded and continued to chat like all was fine. I popped a beer for the evening while Sean was steady taking pictures and chatting with his fans. If there is any person of fame to take time and talk to their fans, Sean is that person.

“Where are you from,” he asks everyone.

“And what do you do there?”

He seems to know a specific person or event from every area of the country people talk about. It’s like he is instantly anyone’s kin folk. You can tell he’s lived culture and studied culture. Not through books necessarily, though I’m sure he’s read many, but because he’s been around.

He’s ventured far and wide, he’s listened and learned and taken the time to take

it all in.

Just as I opened my second beer to beg the Lord to allow the rain to stop, it comes to a halt. It was like a roaring lion was all of a sudden calmed and hushed by an unknown source.

I looked at Sean and we agreed it was show time. It was 6:01.

As I gazed upon the crowd, to thank them for coming, I was taken back.

In awe that this space we created was serving a new purpose for new people we had never met before.

And just like that, after the silence of loud rain and a mist over our corn field, I introduced Sean of the South.

The joy and applause was loud and rowdy. It was about to get serious up in here, a good ole’ country how down. Sean was an entertainer beyond my expectation. He was a crowd pleaser and when he picked up that accordion and began playing Hank Williams “Bayou” along with fiddle and drums, my heart grew happy. We were doing it again, serving people from all over, the good stuff that life is made of.

Sean did not stop playing for the next two hours.

His accordion seemed to have a mind of it’s own, something I had never witnessed before. Have you ever stood there and

watched one played right in front of you? Just the way in which it moves is mesmerizing. The crowd loved it, it was as if a Spanish quintet had arrived.

And I kid you not, I was completely taken back moments later when Sean began to sing an entire song in Spanish. It was beautiful.

I have no idea the song or the words, but no need. It was perfect, the sounds of the music with his voice were a match for Spanish angels.

Between music sets, Sean put his signature story-telling skills on display. Stories of dirt roads, his cousin Eddie and all the fine church folks he’s met in the south. The crowd loved it. They laughed, feeding into the inspiration of the performer, to do the thing he was gifted to do.

I was told he repeated a handful of times the oddness of him playing in a “vegetable stand.” I laughed hysterically at all the folks that commented on this to me after the show. If people can simply laugh by one man calling George’s a vegetable stand, I’ll take it all day long. We began as a vegetable stand, and I’ll hold dear to that name forever.

The rain had cooled off our hot summer farm and the cornfields in the background looked more luscious than they had in weeks. The evening sun was setting the sky a-blaze

in mass colors of peach, bright blue and aqua as it set behind the trees. Sean began a medley on guitar of old church hymns, ones I myself grew up hearing in a tiny church on the edge of Tuskegee. The audience joined in on every one. In a world where daily, we see things that which tear us apart, it’s a beautiful sight to see something so random bring us all together.

This space, on this farm, on this night, was magic.

Sean closed out his night with “I’ll Fly Away,” playing in memory of a fan who had recently passed away and their family was present. He told a story, of a life well lived, a single person who had an impact on many far and wide.

Half the crowd was in tears and the peace that passes all understanding was laid upon us all.

The crowd gave a standing ovation, and Sean spent the rest of the night hugging necks, signing books and taking pictures.

He stayed till the last car pulled away. Then he took off his red baseball cap, scratched his head and said, “Well that sure was fun!” Famer and I laughed and agreed. We said our good-byes and the party was over.

We will never forget the faces and smiles of this night. It will be forever etched in our souls and for every bit of fun, we are grateful.

Summer,

meet the love of your life, time stops, and it’s true…

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.

from A15

334-528-6191

www.eamcfoundation.org

Contact: Amy Thomas Amy.Thomas@eamc.org

state we live in. We are large enough to be our own country and the land differences from north to south bring all variations of natural life. We are checking items off our list and steady adding new ones too.

In the begining, I thought I was creating the “Summer Bucket List,” but now I realize this Alabama adventure will last for months and months to come and I’m glad for that. Thankful for a state that has enough to offer our family that we can travel for years together.

“They say when you

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

Adam Johnson named as Beulah High School's new athletic director

On the Mark

By D. Mark Mitchell

By Morgan Bryce Editor

High school football Media Days event held last week

T

he second annual “iHeartRadio High School Media Days presented by the Orthopaedic Clinic” was held last week in the Southern Room on Southern Union State Community College’s Opelika campus.

Eighteen high school football teams were represented during the two-day media blitz.

The event was covered by members of print-audio-visual media, including the AHSAA Radio Network, Alabama Radio Network, Auburn Villager, Gator Media, Opelika-Auburn News, Opelika Observer, WRBL, WSFA, WTVM and WXTX, among others.

Opelika’s Erik Speakman brought seniors Marshall Meyers, Brody Davis, Jalen Stinson and Marcus Tyson.

The Bulldogs have six of nine games at home including Callaway-Georgia (Aug. 23), Auburn (Aug. 30), Wetumpka (Sept.

13), Benjamin Russell (Oct. 4), Calera (Oct. 11) and Vigor (Oct. 25.) The three road games include Selma (Sept 6), Central (Sept. 20) and Stanhope Elmore (Oct 18). Opelika has two open weeks, Sept.

27 and the last week of the regular season, Nov. 1.

Read more about Media

Days on B5.

OPELIKA SPORTSPLEX NEWS The Opelika Parks and Recreation staff hosted the ARPA State Swim Meet in the Aquatics Center inside the Sportsplex.

Opelika placed 9th overall in the large team division which is for teams larger then 40 kids. Opelika had 43 swimmers compete this weekend. Opelika swimmers came home with a total of 39 medals four golds, eight silver and six bronze.

Congratulations to the city of Opelika for hosting this meet, bringing more than 1,200 swimmers to town. This is the second time in three years the ARPA swim meet chose to hold their event in Opelika. According to the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau, the three-day meet means a two-million dollar economic impact for our city and county.

Most hotels/motels in Opelika were full during the meet and our local restaurants and stores should have felt the increase in spending. (I will have results in next week’s column.)

PICKLEBALL FACILITY OPEN The Opelika Parks and Recreation Department has scheduled a ribbon See Sports, page B4

Turn to B5 for coverage of last week’s high school media days event at Southern Union

Photos special to the Opelika Observer

Smiths Station High School Athletic Director Adam Johnson was named as the new assistant principal and athletic director at Beulah High School during a special meeting of the Lee County School Board last Thursday evening.

Johnson replaces Richard Brown Jr., who stepped into the role his father had for 48 years as principal at Beauregard High

School.

Before coming to Smiths Station in fall 2004, Johnson worked at Jordan High School in Columbus. Looking to make a change, he said God opened and closed a number of doors to help him arrive at the school where he was meant to be for the next 15 years.

"I interviewed at all of the local schools except for Smiths Station. You see, as a former (Central High See Johnson, page B2

Rashaan Evans treats 20 area children to shopping spree at Dick’s Sporting Goods last week

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Tennessee Titans linebacker and University of Alabama alumni Rashaan Evans surprised 20 local children from the Opelika area with a shopping spree at DICK’S Sporting Goods. Each child received a $100 DICK’S Sporting Goods gift card and spent time shopping with Evans, who served as the children’s personal shopping consultant for the afternoon. DICK’S Sporting Goods was proud to sponsor this event as part of its efforts to inspire and enable youth sports participation. Pictured above: Evans and children from the Lee County Youth Development Center, The Dream Day Foundation and the Ward II Academy.

pelika Observer O

B2 July 31, 2019

Opelika SportsPlex to hold 10th anniversary celebration Aug. 31 Special to the Opelika Observer The Opelika SportsPlex and Aquatics Center will be hosting a 10th anniversary celebration Aug. 31 from 9 a.m. to noon. Included in the celebration’s festivities will be free food, inflatables, scavenger hunt, group fitness blast classes, fitness competition and more.

Members and guests will have the opportunity to win a variety of prizes. Original members who have been members since 2009 can enter to win a free year of membership. Others can participate in a scavenger hunt for prizes including free membership, massage therapy, personal training, gift certificates and more.

Group fitness novices and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to try various classes during the event. There will be several short “blast classes” that will highlight the wide variety of classes on the monthly schedule, a great opportunity for people to try a new class or gauge interest in group fitness as a whole.

For those who love competition, the SportsPlex

Johnson,

from B1

School) Red Devil, that was unacceptable," Johnson said jokingly. "As time passed, and no offers were extended, I decided to apply at Smiths.

fitness staff is hosting a friendly fitness competition during the event.

Participants can stop by the gym to compete in a wide variety of events including a pushup contest, sit-up contest and other popular activities. A white-board will be set-up to record who holds the record in each event and as an open challenge to anyone who wants to compete. The winner of each event will receive a free personal training session. Fitness staff will also be on hand to perform fitness assessments and give training, nutrition and general advice.

Everyone who signs up for membership during the 10th anniversary event will receive free membership for the first two months.

The facility will also be offering free admission to anyone who wants to try the facility out.

“Through the past ten years we have had a lot of time to reflect on what we are good at, what we are not good at and where our strengths lie,” said Opelika Parks and Recreation’s Public Relations Coordinator Laura Leigh Chesser.

“The resounding conclu-

sion is that we are good when it comes to family.

We not only have fun amenities for moms, dads, kids and grandparents, but we also have fun things that they can all do together.

The togetherness is key.”

With amenities like an indoor pool, outdoor splash park, basketball gym, racquetball courts, disc golf course, newly constructed pickleball courts, adult activity center and free tot watch, there are certainly a myriad of activities for all members of any family.

The facility also offers

typical fitness amenities for those who prefer more traditional fitness regimens.

Top-of-the-line weight machines, cardio equipment and bikes are sprinkled throughout the facility.

Runners and walkers can choose between indoor and outdoor walking tracks. Free weights are in abundance and include dumbbells up to 140 pounds. Personal trainers are always available to help with spotting or quick advice. The group fitness room is busy with more than 50 different class of-

ferings per week.

“We have a unique perspective as a public entity,” said Chesser.

“While recouping costs and making money are certainly important things, our primary goal has been to improve the lives of the citizens we serve. Helping people to overcome physical ailments and lead healthier lives allows us to do that.”

This city-owned facility opened its doors on Aug. 31, 2009. Through research of other comparable towns and facilities,

it was determined that the Opelika SportsPlex would be successful if it acquired 700-800 memberships within the first year. It reached that goal within a few months, and by its first anniversary the SportsPlex had 2,500 memberships.

The wide variety of amenities and activities for every age has allowed the Opelika SportsPlex to grow and today it has nearly 5,700 members.

For more information, call 334-705-5560. The facility is located at 1001 Andrews Road.

After a brief meeting in (Coach Trey Holladay's) office, we walked outside and he showed me around campus. As we toured the facilities, I received an unexplainable feeling ... it was like God slapped me in the back of the head and said 'stop being stubborn.

This is where I want you.'"

Johnson worked his way up at Smiths Station and became male athletic director during the 2018-19 athletic season, and was able to his third and youngest child Katie receive her high school diploma this spring.

As a close friend of previous Beulah High School Coach Cody Flournoy, who led the Bobcats to their winningest season in 23 years last season, Johnson said stepping on the school's campus for their first-round playoff game v. Thomasville gave him flash-

backs to his experience at Smiths Station 15 years prior. That experience last fall led him to apply for the opening at Beulah when it was posted two weeks ago.

"I didn’t need to do much research about the area. I live less than 10 miles from there and I know what kind good people live there," Johnson said.

"The community is solid. (Last) week, I met with Dr. (Cincrystal) Poythress and our conversation solidified that feeling I received last fall."

While leaving Smiths Station was a decision made with a heavy heart, Johnson

said he is excited for his next opportunity at Beulah.

"The years, the people, the students, the experiences, and the relationships I formed at Smiths Station are irreplaceable.

(It) will always hold a special place in my heart," Johnson said.

"With that being said, I cannot wait to get started at Beulah. I’m honored and blessed to get the opportunity to join another great group of people."

For more information on Beulah athletics, visit www.lee.k12. al.us/Domain/11. The school is located at 4848 County Road 270 in Valley.

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

Pictured above left: Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller cuts the ribbon marking the opening of the Sportsplex in August 2009.

pelika O Observer

B3 July 31, 2019

Places and Time

R

ain moves lazily across the piedmont making its way nearer the Black Belt this morning. The rumble of the early train is transmuted by remembrance.

I hear the clunking of subway cars as they pass by my window.

I draw back the white curtain, and I’m in Queens. I turn the key and step into the studio, I’m in Smiths Station. A truck carrying harvested timber passes by. When the truck driver accelerates plumes of black exhaust are exhaled into the pale air. Outside my window in Queens, commuters board the early train for midtown Manhattan.

I stand before Bellow’s painting Both Members of this Club, then turn toward John Sloan’s The City from Greenwich Village.

When I draw back the

By Sarah West curtain in memory, I too, can see the scene Sloan painted timelessly. I recall letters I’ve read between he and Robert Henri’s correspondence, and then turn again to see painted cityscapes by other members of the Eight. I can hear the sounds of the city, when I am far from it, the melody of shuffling pedestrian feet, the clicking of the traffic signal, the chatter of phone calls along every sidewalk, and

the breeze caressing treetops while keeping time with the carriage rides in Central Park. I am here and I am there all at once.

Sips of black coffee take me back across the rivers and vast patches of farmland, to the Delaware River and then the rolling hills along the Brandywine. Echoes of cannon fire, and visions of revolutionary men rush by on horseback cutting through the quiet mist. Oil paint and leather, well read books and worn floorboards capture the north light. Chartreuse green cascades through the orchard. Raindrops glaze stepping stones, laced with fallen leaves from the late summer thunderstorm.

Pages are turned in the photo album and paintings are recalled during a rainy day in Alabama. Journey’s

past are never far.

Sarah West serves the Opelika Observer as a contributing columnist, with written works of Cultural Arts relevance and prose.

She is a preservation, and conservation advocate, activist, and visual artist of American Illustration with a focus on Regional Narrative Painting.

She is 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 Philanthropy 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

Lesson plan for the first day of school

Beth Pinyerd The Classroom Observer

A

s the Classroom Observer, I would like to extend warm wishes, hope and joy for a good school year for teachers, students and their families.

Whether you send your child to school or homeschool your children, we have a very important goal to provide them with a quality education.

A fresh new year of new students, goals, and lessons to teach, we welcome the 2019-2020 school year which is just

around the corner!

I have always taught early childhood and elementary grades, but at joint teacher institute meetings with junior high and high school teachers, we can all glean from each other. Even though our pesonalities and styles may be different, we are all on the same mission In order to meet the challenge, it is so important for us to be prepared. We teachers need to pack our heart backpack with spiritual, emotional

Help protect your patients against vaccinepreventable diseases.

Send out recall/reminder cards Assess the vaccination status of school-age patients utilizing ImmPRINT’s Vaccine Forecaster or Not-Up-To-Date Report Provide a strong recommendation for vaccinations

VACCINATE Schedule the follow-up appointment Adolescent students not up-to-date on required and ACIP recommended vaccine may be offered those during a school-based vaccine clinic or by a pharmacist

For more information on current vaccine recommendations and scheduling, please scan the QR code for the Back to School flyer or visit www.alabamapublichealth.gov/immunization.

and physical supplies! As I reflect on teaching years gone by, I do remember that my class and I had ups and downs even on the first day.

But, being called into the classroom to teach has so many wonderful rewards that count for eternity!

From an anonymous author in one of my favorite books “Teachers are a Gift from God," I have adopted this teacher acrostic to encourage myself and fellow teachers.

T-Teaching takes time E-Energy A-Attention paid to all the C-Children H-Helping them E-Encouraging them R-Reaching out to all students S-Sometimes simply being there As we teachers call each name on our roll on day one, we connect a name to a student and we quickly acknowledge that we

will need understanding as we instruct our students. As the year begins, we assess each student’s potential that.

We will want our students to know that we respect and value them. We want to share knowledge and light the lives of our students with the love of learning.

We teachers desire our classrooms to be a place where students will learn, discover, create, question and grow.

As we share our classroom rules with our students on day one, we reflect and use wisdom when we must discipline in promoting the learning process and when to show mercy.

Mother Teresa coined this so well, “kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.”

In our backpack of teacher preparations, we prepare our lessons according to the age, abilities and developmental

needs of our students.

Young children learn so much by process whereas older students focus on content learning but many subjects require both ways of learning.

We desire to equip students with life skills and provide them inspiration to learn!

Parents, your assignments for the first day of school are to include your child in preparations such as clothes shopping, school supplies shopping, labeling their supplies and visiting the school with them.

“Meet your Teacher Day” also helps to prepare your child mentally and emotionally to start or start back to school.

We are going to have a wonderful 2019-2010 school year! Teachers and parents can totally depend on God, who is the source of our strength, courage and peace.

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.

pelika Observer O

B4 July 31, 2019

Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lee County held a special celebration last week to honor their teens moving to new grade level and those graduating

Photos special to the Opelika Observer The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County celebrated their Class of 2019 graduating teens and their teens who moved onto the next grade level at their annual Taco Bell Graduation Celebration on July 25. The keynote speaker at this year’s celebration was AllState Insurance Agent Travis Carswell. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County has a 100% high school graduation rate. Pictured above left are Jermeriah Little, Shaniya Little and Ayonna Kimble. All three are students at Opelika High School. Pictured above right are Wanda Lewis and Carswell.

Opelika City Schools Former students of Opelika Middle School teacher Carlos are ready for new Moore to hold celebration, school year

By Beth Pinyerd For the Opelika Observer The Opelika City School Board met to consider and approve new business for the new school year during their regular meeting last Thursday.

During the meeting, the board approved the hiring of 52 new teachers for Opelika City Schools for the 2019-20 school year, approved a membership renewal with the School Superintendents of Alabama and revised the school system’s student code regarding its anti-harassment/bul-

Sports,

from B1 cutting for the new pickleball complex Aug. 10 at 10 a.m. Although the 12-court pickleball complex opened July 12 this will be the official opening. The new covered facility, located behind the Sportsplex, is one of the premier pickleball facilities in the nation, offering individually fenced court under the shade of the large cover, costing $556,000 to build. Players will have access to the restrooms, parking, lockers, showers and concessions. Players do not have to be a member of the Sportsplex to play on the courts.

Members of the department hope to host three to four tournaments a year, bringing approximately 150 to 200 people each tournament.

According to Anthony Terling from the A-O Tourism Bureau, it is estimated that each person

lying policy.

Substitute teachers will see a $10 bonus this school year, with their daily pay increasing $60 to $70.

In other business, the board: - approved a request to add a bust to the list of surplus sale - heard from OCS Special Education Coordinator Cynthia Booth about the use of restraint and seclusion during the 201819 school year and an update on the system’s special education performance profile - heard and approved the financial report for the month of June will spend $139 per day during a tournament.

Recreation Director Sam Bailey, an avid player, is proud to have the complex in his “backyard.”

“Opelika certainly has a pickleball facility to be proud of and we hope to show it off in future tournaments and events,” Bailey said. The cost of the complex exceeded several hundred thousand dollars.

AUG. 31 10TH ANNIVERSARY FOR SPORTSPLEX Opelika’s Parks and Recreation Department will celebrate 10 years of operating the Sportsplex and Aquatic Center Aug. 31. The celebration will include free food, a fitness competition, group fitness blast classes, inflatables, a scavenger hunt and much more.

The event will be from 9 a.m. to noon. Members and guest will have a chance to win prizes. For details about joining the Opelika Sportsplex, call 334-705-5150.

- heard updates on the school system’s summer feeding program, which served more than 5,000 meals to children at Carver and Jeter elementaries and Opelika High School.

- named “Determination” as the character trait of the month for Opelika City Schools.

The board’s next meeting will be held Aug. 27 at the OCS Board of Education building, which is located at 300 Simmons St. For more information, call 334-745-9700 or visit www.opelikaschools.org.

AHSAA NEWS The Alabama High School Athletic Association held its quarterly central board meeting last week at the AHSAA headquarters in Montgomery. The board approved returning $2 million dollars to its member schools under the revenue sharing plan, which was adopted in 2009. The board waived the membership dues for the member schools once again, resulting in an immediate savings of $84,000 overall. The total amount saved since membership dues have been waived in 1991-92 is more than $2.2 million dollars. That is money saved by schools that offer athletics. Two new board member took office and were sworn in

by AHSAA Assistant Director Alvin Briggs, Kim Kiel (Pelham High School athletic director) and Jamie Chapman (Pickens County school superintendent.)

Opelika High School Principal Dr. Farrell Sey-

reunion in his honor Aug. 3

By Morgan Bryce Editor

Opelika resident Tomeka Penn is organizing a celebration of former Opelika Middle School teacher Carlos Moore Aug. 3 at 5 p.m. at the Ashton Way Apartments clubhouse.

As a seventh-grade student, Penn said Moore's teaching nearly 27 years ago has left a lasting impact on she and her classmates' lives.

"He was a teacher that cared about all students, whether they were

more was in attendance and will replace board member Richard “Dickie” Brown on Aug. 1.

Seymore will be sworn in at the October central board meeting.

The board voted to return $1 per paid ticket from each playoff ticket through the revenue sharing to its member schools to offset game expenses. The total amount returned was $341,000.

In other business, the board: • approved 50% rule violation to restitution and fine on first offense and suspension from the season on the second offense.

• approved a modification to the reclassification competitive balance formula. The data will be used every two years instead of three years.

This will fall in line with reclassification, which happens every two years.

• approved the fee for video broadcasting a playoff game to $500, up from $400.

black, white or Hispanic. In particular, he taught me a lot of black history that I probably wouldn't have ever known ... he was (and always has been) no. 1," Penn said.

After leaving Opelika Middle School in December 1993, Moore relocated to Fayette, Alabama, where continued coaching high school football and later became a pastor. He currently serves at Unity Grove Baptist Church.

Food and drinks will be provided. According to Penn, the best

way people can support the event is to come and bring their favorite memories and stories to share with each other.

Former students will be able to sign or paint their names onto a canvas as a gift to Moore.

"He just wants to as many he can. When I posted about this idea, I had more than 100 people comment and say they would love to come," Penn said.

"Hopefully we have a good turnout."

The apartments are located at 201 Samford Ave.

• approved the formation of a committee to look at the “Transfer Rule.”

D.Mark Mitchell is

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

pelika Observer O

B5 July 31, 2019

Southern Union’s Southern Room site of ‘2nd Annual Alabama High School Media Days’ last week

By Morgan Bryce and D. Mark Mitchell Opelika Observer The 2nd Annual Alabama High School Media Days sponsored by iHeart Radio and Fox Sports 910 and 1310 AM "The Game" was held last Tuesday and Wednesday at Southern Union State Community College.

Eighteen area schools participated, with representation of teams from Chambers, Lee, Macon and Russell counties present.

Following is a breakdown of six of those schools, listed in alphabetical order.

Beauregard High School Hornets Coach Rob Carter 46-12 overall record in

five seasons Players present for Media Days: Cody Knight, vying for quarterback and other positions; Ashton Moss, running back and Tyler Torbert, defensive and offensive line.

2018 Recap: After three-straight losses to open the season, Beauregard righted the ship, winning five of their next six regular season games. They ended the season with a 42-21 first-round playoff loss at home to Pleasant Grove.

Key Departures: Kyle Huguley, Ja'carious McKissic, Q. Seroyer and Zip Whitlow Quotables: "These young men worked hand-in-hand daily

(after the March 3 tornadoes). I believe it gives them a different aspect of life and the understanding that anything can happen at anytime. Going into this season, we're going to remember those who suffered the greatest consequence along with their families ... it's something to build on (from a coaching standpoint)." - Coach Rob Carter "(Former Beauregard running back) La'damian Webb taught me a lot. I learned that I just have to grind on and off the field and the classroom so I don't hurt my chances to play and contribute to my team." - Ashton Moss 2019 schedule:

Aug. 23 v. Benjamin Russell Aug. 30 @ Eufaula Sept. 6 v. Valley Sept. 13 @ Rehobeth Sept. 20 v. Charles Henderson Sept. 27 @ Montgomery Catholic Oct. 4 v. Harris County Oct. 11 @ Greenville Oct. 18 v. Carroll Oct. 25 @ Tallassee Beulah High School Bobcats Coach Matthew Johnson - First season (Defensive Coordinator Stan Pepper represented the school for Johnson, who was finishing teaching certifications during their respective Media Day slot) Players present for Media Days: Jaden

Buffington, offensive and defensive lineman; Dylan Coleman, vying for quarterback and starter at safety and Chris Person, running back and linebacker.

2018 Recap: It was a magical season for Beulah as the Bobcats posted their most wins in a season since 1995 and broke their 10year playoff drought.

They lost a tight 7-0 contest to Thomasville in the first round of the State 3A Playoffs.

In April, the architect of Beulah's comeback Cody Flournoy accepted the head coaching position at 5A Jackson High School.

Key Departures: Caden Dowdell, Justin Hancock, Quindarius Page and Lonzie Portis

Quotables: "It's almost like Coach (Flournoy) has never left. We're still running the same offense, same defense and doing the same thing special teams wise." - Coach Stan Pepper "If you don't get out of Chris's way, he'll run you over.

That makes us want to make holes for him."

- Offensive/Defensive Lineman Jaden Buffington 2019 Schedule: Aug. 23 v.

Loachapoka Aug. 30 v. Ellwood Christian Sept. 6 @ The Montgomery Academy Sept. 13 @ Prattville Christian Academy See Football, page B6

Auburn

Beauregard

Beulah

Central (Phenix City)

Chambers Academy

Glenwood

Lafayette

Lanett

Loachapoka

Notasulga

Opelika

Reeltown

Smiths Station

Springwood

Valley

pelika Observer O

B6 July 31, 2019

Pre-K education returns to Opelika through Envision Foundation's 'Opelika First Class Pre-K Academy'

By Morgan Bryce Editor For the first time in several years, preK education will be offered in Opelika through the "Opelika First Class Pre-K Academy," thanks to the efforts of the Envision Foundation.

Multiple media reports in April 2015 reflect that Opelika City Schools nixed its pre-K program because of a huge gap between costs and the low total number of participating students.

According to Academy Director Cindy Conway, who has an extensive background in education and experience with Office of School Readiness programs like hers, she is "beyond excited" to bring preK education back to Opelika.

"Basic psychology says we are who we are by age five, and if I have an opportunity to help write that last chapter of a child's life, then what an amazing gift that is," Conway said.

At the July 2 meeting of the Opelika City Council, the city approved a three-year lease agreement with the Envision Foundation at a total cost of $1 per year. Conway said upgrades and renovations are currently being made to the facility to include administrative offices, classrooms and playground area.

Enrollment is free for the academy, which begins classes on Aug. 15 and abides mostly by the OCS calendar, Conway added. The program is open to children who live in Opelika and are four years old before or on Sept. 1. Parents are only required to provide copies of their child's birth certificate and proof of residence (utility bills or lease and mortgage copies). Immunization records will be required upon enrollment.

A regular school day at the academy

will last from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily but there will be an after-school program for working parents that will run an additional three hours to 5:30 p.m.

Breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Instead of the traditional hands-on approach used by teachers, Conway said they will utilize "engagement through self-discovery."

"The teachers are going to be mere facilitators in the classrooms, standing back and making observations. As children do things, teachers will take anecdotal notes as they go around, which is part of their job to do is to put it in the database system for the state (education) department," Conway said. "That way, we can see where the child is developed mentally and how far they are from where they need to be."

Conway added that she is pleased with the staff she has hired, which includes Misty Blackmon, longtime Jeter Elementary educator Laura Lambert and Wendy Overstreet, one of the founders of Opelika's original pre-K program. They will help oversee the education of the 36 children already enrolled in the program.

Enrollment for the academy will remain open year-round.

Though there is a waiting list, Conway encourages parents to place their child in advance of possible future openings.

"I encourage people with two and three-year-olds to go ahead and get themselves placed on the list. It's never too early," Conway said.

For more information or updates on the academy, call Conway at 334-319-0056 or like and follow the "Opelika First Class Pre K Academy" Facebook page. The train depot is located at 1032 S. Railroad Ave.

Football,

from B5

Sept. 20 v. Southside-Selma Oct. 4 v. Bullock County Oct. 11 @ Saint James Oct. 18 v. Dadeville Oct. 25 @ Pike Road Nov. 1 v. McKenzie Lee-Scott Academy Warriors Coach Robert Johnson (147-92 overall) is entering his first season at Lee-Scott Academy 2018 Recap: Longtime Coach Robert Maddox retired after a winless season that saw the Warriors average a mere 7.8 points per game. Johnson, previously with Tuscaloosa Academy, won 65 games and a state title during his time with the Knights.

Key Departures: Patrick Mcmenamin, Jared Nelson and Hunter Simmons Quotables: “We’ve got a lot of numbers, which I think is the strength of our program right now.

We’ve been able to dress 40, sometimes more than that.” Coach Robert Johnson “The kids are really buying into what we’re doing in the weight room and we’re much, much stronger than where we were just a few months ago.” - Johnson 2019 Schedule: Aug. 23 @ Chambers Academy Aug. 30 @ Fort Dale Academy Sept. 6 @ Edgewood Academy Sept. 13 @ Morgan Academy Sept. 20 v. Kingwood Christian Sept. 27 v. Pike Liberal Arts Oct. 4 v. Tuscaloosa Academy Oct. 11 @ Northside Methodist Academy Oct. 18 @ Bessemer Academy Oct. 25 v. Glenwood

Loachapoka High School Indians Coach L.C. Cole 4-5 record entering second season Players present for Media Days: Aaron Frazier, quarterback and free safety; Demontrey Moore, running back; Quincy Nelms, wide receiver and Tyrell Pierce, free safety and wide receiver.

2018 Recap: Two months prior to the start of the season, second-year Coach Antonio Richards had to leave because of health reasons.

Loachapoka brought in another respected coach in Cole, who has more than 30 years of combined college and high school football experience. Following a sluggish start, the Indians finished the season on a hot streak, winning four of their final six games and coming up one win short of making the playoffs.

Key Departures: Scotquavious Nelms, Jajuan Redden and Steffon Searcy.

Quotables: "I brought four players that are going to be a big part of our team this year. These guys have been together since childhood and now they're here in their senior year." Coach L.C. Cole "From a coching standpoint and after evaluating film, I think we to limit our offensive scheme and not run so many plays as we did last year. We have gotten stronger (mentally and physically) and you could look back on these guys from last year and see that." - Cole 2019 Schedule: Aug. 23 @ Beulah Aug. 30 v. Pike Road Sept. 6 @ Billingsley Sept. 13 @ Wadley Sept. 20 v. Autauga County Sept. 27 v. Horseshoe Bend Oct. 3 @ Notasulga

Oct. 11 v. Lanett Oct. 18 @ Talladega Oct. 25 v. Verbena Opelika High School Coach Erik Speakman, 7-5 overall record entering second season 2018 Recap: After 19 years as Opelika’s defensive coordinator, Speakman was given his opportunity at the helm of the program.

Despite a challenging schedule and slew of injuries, the Bulldogs won their first two playoff games before a close 24-19 loss against Saraland.

Key Departures: Cade Blackmon, JaQuan Foote and Jaylen Holloway Quotables: “Ending (summer practice), we’ve got 101 guys out, which is probably the most our program has had in 10 to 12 years. We’ve got a great group of seniors (25) too that I’m really excited about.” Coach Erik Speakman “7A football has a lot of good football teams, but not as many as 6A. Any team that ends their season (like we did) has motivation coming back the next year to do better and take it one step further.” - Speakman 2019 Schedule: Aug. 22 v. Callaway High School Aug. 30 @ Auburn High School Sept. 6 @ Selma Sept. 13 v. Wetumpka Sept. 20 @ Central High School (Phenix City) Oct. 4 v. Benjamin Russell High School Oct. 11 v. Calera High School Oct. 18 @ Stanhope Elmore Oct. 25 v. Vigor Smiths Station High School Panthers Coach Mike Glisson, 6-4 overall record entering second season Players Present for Media Days: Jordan Jones, Cory Minton and Christian Williams

2018 Recap: Smiths Station stunned the local high school football area by emerging as a rising program, winning six games after back-to-back onewin seasons. Following a nip-and-tuck win at Eufaula to close out the regular season, the Panthers discovered that they had come up one win short of making the playoffs.

Key Departures: Jordan Brooks, Kyran Hall and Christopher Jones Quotables: "Like I've said before, they're great kids. It's fun to coach them. I was able to hire some really good coaches and people (to help run the program).

There's no magic formula to this - you life weights, you run them, you work them and you push them to the max and that's what we did and still continue to do." - Coach Mike Glisson "One thing I learned from last season to this season to do a better job of getting on the same page as my teammates - everybody knowing the playbook like the back of their hand, especially me." - Minton 2019 Schedule: Aug. 23 @ Russell County Aug. 30 v. Valley Sept. 6 @ Central Sept. 13 v. Enterprise Sept. 20 v. Lee Sept. 27 @ Stanhope Elmore Oct. 3 @ Jefferson Davis Oct. 11 v. Auburn Oct. 25 @ Prattville Nov. 1 v. Eufaula All times for the games mentioned set for 7 p.m. C.S.T., but are subject to change.

For more information or to watch replays of both days of the event, visit the Fox Sports "The Game" Facebook page.

Not pictured were Dadeville and Russell County high schools as well Lee-Scott Academy.

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

FIrST DAy OF SCHOOL August 6, 2019 – Full Day for all students Buses will run and lunch will be served

Open House Dates:

Meet Your Teacher Day

Opelika High School August 12, 6:00 p.m.

Opelika Learning Center August 22, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Morris Avenue Intermediate School August 13, 5:30 p.m. (3rd grade only) August 15, 5:30 p.m. (4th & 5th grade)

Southview Primary School August 27, 5:30 p.m.-Kindergarten 6:00 p.m.-1st grade; 6:30 p.m.-2nd grade

Opelika Middle School August 20, 6:00 p.m.

Carver Primary School August 29, 6:00 p.m.

Jeter Primary School August 22, 5:30 p.m.-Kindergarten 6:00 p.m.-1st grade; 6:30 p.m.-2nd grade

West Forest Intermediate School September 12, 6:00 p.m.

Friday, August 2, 2019 7:30–10:00 a.m.

1:00–2:00 p.m.

Kindergarten-5th grade

Opelika Middle School Schedule Pick-up Friday, August 2nd, 2019 10:00 a.m. 6th Graders 1:00 p.m. 7th & 8th Graders

OHS Freshman Orientation July 31, 2019

Regular School Day Hours Primary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:40 a .m . - 2:45 p .m .

Intermediate Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:45 a .m . - 2:50 p .m .

Opelika Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:50 a .m . - 3:24 p .m .

Opelika High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:55 a .m . - 3:25 p .m .

Opelika Learning Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:45 a .m . - 3:00 p .m .

Board of Education Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:30 a .m . - 4:15 p .m .

Registration for New Opelika City Schools Students Students enrolling in the Opelika City Schools system may register any time between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Who can register: To be enrolled in kindergarten this fall, a child must be five (5) years old on or before September 2, 2019 . To be enrolled in first grade, a child must be six (6) years old on or before September 2, 2019 . All children who attend Opelika City Schools must live within the city limits of Opelika .

Student transfers: Students transferring to the Opelika City Schools from other school systems need to first officially withdraw from their prior school system and request that transcripts be sent to the Opelika City Schools system . You may also bring your official withdrawal form to the new school and we will send for the transcripts . Students transferring from one school zone to another within the Opelika City Schools jurisdiction, the child must first withdraw from the school he or she is leaving before enrolling in the new school . All fees and paperwork must be completed and cleared before any records can be transferred to another school .

WHAT yOU WILL NEED TO rEGISTEr: • Birth Certificate or other documentation establishing date of birth .

• State of Alabama Blue Certificate of Immunizations • Child’s Social Security Card (voluntary) • Picture id of parent or legal guardian (drivers license, non-drivers license, military id, etc .)

• Two current proofs of residency (gas, water, and electric bills accepted) For information on how to obtain any of the above requirements, call the Board of Education offices.

Opelika City Schools Calendar 2019-2020 August 2, 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Meet Your Teacher (grades K-5) August 6, 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .First Day of School (full day) September 2, 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Labor Day Holiday October 14-15, 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Fall Break October 16, 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Professional Day (students do not attend) November 11, 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Veteran’s Day Holiday November 25-29, 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Thanksgiving Holidays December 20, 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1/2 day for students December 23, 2019-January 2, 2020 . . . . . .Christmas and New Year’s Holidays January 3, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Professional Day (students do not attend) January 6, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Students return January 20, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Martin Luther King, Jr . Holiday February 17, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .President’s Day Holiday March 16-20, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Spring Break (School dismisses March 13, 2020 and reopens March 23, 2020) April 3, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Professional Day (students do not attend) May 21, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Last Day of School (1/2 day for students) May 22, 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Opelika High School Graduation **If a school day is missed due to bad weather, students will attend school February 17 or April 3.

Opelika High School Delayed Start For the 2019-20 school year, OHS will have delayed start times on the following dates: 9/23/19 and 3/9/20. Buses will run at normal times for those students needing transportation. Otherwise, students may report to school at 10:00 a.m. on the above dates. The call-in bell will be at 9:55 a.m.

Northside Intermediate School September 16, 6:00 p.m.

School Directory Carver Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .307 Carver Ave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Principal Joe Ross . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .745 .9712 joe.ross@opelikaschools.org Jeter Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .700 Jeter Ave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Principal David Carpenter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .745 .9723 david.carpenter@opelikaschools.org Southview Primary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2712 Marvyn Pkwy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Principal Mary Salmon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .745 .9711 mary.salmon@opelikaschools.org Morris Ave . Int . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Morris Avenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Principal Nino Mason . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .745 .9734 nino.mason@opelikaschools.org Northside Int . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .601 N . 5th St . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Principal Cindy Poteet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .745 .9731 cindy.poteet@opelikaschools.org West Forest Int . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2801 Waverly Pkwy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Principal Pam Fourtenbary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .745 .9737 pam.fourtenbary@opelikaschools.org Opelika Middle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1206 Denson Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Principal Keith York . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .745 .9726 keith.york@opelikaschools.org Opelika High School . . . . . . . . . . . . .1700 Lafayette Pkwy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Principal Farrell Seymore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .745 .9715 farrell.seymore@opelikaschools.org Opelika Learning Ctr . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .214 Jeter Avenue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Principal Steven Carson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .741 .5603 steven.carson@opelikaschools.org

Back To School 2019-2020 Opelika City Schools Board of Education 300 Simmons Street • Opelika, AL 36801 334 .745 .9700 • 334 .745 .9706 (fax) www.opelikaschools.org Patsy Boyd Parker, Chairman J . Kevin Royal, M .D .

Antione T . Harvis Charles D . Beams, Jr .

Tipi Miller Mark Neighbors, Superintendent Kenneth Burton, Assistant Superintendent Jean Miller, Assistant Superintendent Ginger Weygand, Coordinator of Elementary Education Katie Murray, Coordinator of Secondary Education & Career Tech Cynithia Landry, Special Education Coordinator Stacy Royster, Technology Coordinator Kimberly Sparks, Testing Coordinator Buffie Tuck, Federal Programs Specialist Nancy Olaveson, Child Nutrition Program Coordinator Jeff Foster, Coordinator of Maintenance and Transportation Steven Carson, Director of Alternative Education & Student Services Thomas Sherfield, Attendance Officer Becky Brown, Public Relations Coordinator

Meal Prices

Elementary & Middle School Breakfast . . . . .$1 .00 Lunch . . . . . . . .$1 .75 High School Breakfast . . . . .$1 .00 Lunch . . . . . . . .$2 .00 Visitors (all schools) Breakfast . . . . .$1 .75 Lunch . . . . . . . .$3 .25

School Supply Lists Bus schedules will be available in the schools & can be picked up on the first day of school.

available at local retailers, individual schools, & on the OCS website.

Children’s Adventure in Recreation, Enrichment, and Study

Extended day is a program sponsored by the Opelika City Schools system to provide a safe, friendly, environment at each school for children in grades K-8 who need after school care. CARES offers tutors, homework assistance, recreation, school clubs, special activities and other areas of student enrichment for every elementary child.

For more information contact your child’s individual school.

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Opelika Sportsplex hosted Alabama Recreation and Parks Association State Swimming and Diving Championship July 25-27; Dive competition held at Samford Pool in Auburn

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The Alabama Recreation and Parks Association held its annual “State Swimming and Diving Championships� Thursday through Saturday in the Auburn-Opelika area. Samford Pool was the site of the diving competitions on Thursday, while the Opelika SportsPlex hosted on Friday and Saturday. According to estimates by the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau provided to Observer Sports Columnist D. Mark Mitchell, more than 1,200 swimmers and their families came to the area, making a projected economic impact of nearly $2 million. Opelika placed 9th overall in the large team division, which is for teams larger than 40 kids. Opelika had 43 swimmers compete this weekend. Opelika swimmers came home with a total of 39 medals: four gold, eight silver and six bronze.

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, July 31, 2019

Those who bake the pie get to eat it Inside the Statehouse

G

ov. Kay Ivey’s first legislative session of the quadrennium was very successful. Her prowess at getting things accomplished with this legislature has been remarkable.

She knows what she is doing. It should not be surprising given her background and experience.

Ivey has been around state government for most of her adult life. She has dealt with the legislature for over four decades.

Her adroitness in the passage of the Infrastructure package was similar to the legislative success enjoyed

by Gov. George Wallace in his prime years.

Like Wallace, Ivey knows how to reward her friends and punish her enemies.

Those legislators, who were instrumental in passage, are already seeing the fruits of their labors.

There is an old adage in politics that says, “Those that bake the pie get to eat it.

Ivey has already announced and plans are being made to begin work in districts of the “Rebuild Alabama” leaders. Rep. Bill Poole (R-Tuscaloosa), is getting McFarland Boulevard in Tuscaloosa expanded. Sen. Clyde Chambliss (RPrattville) is getting Highway 82 between Prattville and Tuscaloosa completed.

The Huntsville-

By Steve Flowers Madison County and Limestone County delegation was unanimous in support of Rebuild Alabama.

They will get everything they need to improve access for the new Mazda-Toyota plant. This will include adding six lanes to I-565 in Huntsville as well as improving Limestone County I-65 interchanges. This project was helped by Speaker Mac McCutcheon.

Making Highway 411 four lanes through Cherokee and Etowah counties was also announced by the governor. This was a plus for Rep. Ginny Shaver and Sen. Andrew Jones.

The Wiregrass will be taken care of under the Rebuild Alabama program, also. They have needs that have not been met since Big Jim Folsom built the Ross Clark Circle around Dothan.

Every Wiregrass legislator voted for Ivey’s Rebuild Alabama including Sens.

Donnie Chesteen and Jimmy Holley as well as house members

Steve Clouse, Paul Lee, Dexter Grimsley, Jeff Sorrells, Rhett Marquis and Wes Allen.

The state dock’s expansion will be invaluable for not only the Mobile-Baldwin area but for the entire state. Our automakers like Honda, Hyundai and Mercedes will be able to ship their vehicles within state.

Our poultry farmers will have more available markets. This aspect appealed to North Alabama legislative leaders like Rep. Nathaniel Ledbetter and Sens. Steve Livingston, Clay Scofield and Garlan Gudger. These fellows will also get some much anticipated road projects for their Sand Mountain and North Alabama areas.

Every Republican legislator from the Mobile-Baldwin County area voted for passage.

Reps. Chris Pringle and Victor Gaston were the whips in the House. State Sens.

David Sessions, Jack Williams and Chris Elliott spearheaded the effort in the senate.

Working quietly behind the scenes to make sure that the docks expansion was part of the Rebuild Alabama program was former MobileBaldwin Congressman Jo Bonner. This quiet Southern gentleman is a power to be reckoned with in See Flowers, page B13

Smiths Station City Council passes resolution allowing for temporary changes of leadership on city's planning commission

By Morgan Bryce Editor The Smiths Station City Council, along with Mayor F.L. "Bubba" Copeland, passed a resolution Tuesday night that would allow temporary changes in leadership for the city's planning commission.

Copeland disclosed that Chairman Darold Eiland is dealing with personal health issues, and said that passing this resolution would enable the commission to move Vice-Chairman Mike Kane to fill in as long as needed.

"I would like to say that Mr. Eiland has done a wonderful job. This resolution will allow us to move Kane to fill his position while he takes to heal and recover," Copeland said. "We will gladly welcome Mr. Eiland back

once he is back to better health."

With increased demand to lease out city facilities, the council also passed another resolution enabling the city to request churches, nonprofits or community-oriented groups to have to request a single day business license permit for special events.

"This will hold us nonliable for whatever may happen during that day's events. It was something we hadn't had before and I'm glad that (City Clerk) Scott Johnston brought this to my attention," Copeland said.

Toward the end of their meeting, Copeland announced to the council that consistent temporary hours for the Historic Jones Store Museum are currently in effect. The museum will be open

to the public to tour on Tuesdays, Thursdays and the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In other business, the council: - approved the general fund budget statement for the month of June - approved the environmental fund budget for the quarter (April, May, June).

The Smiths Station City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.

Their work session begins at 5:30 p.m. E.S.T. and regular meeting at 6 p.m.

Meetings are held within the council chambers of the Smiths Station Government Center, which is located at 2336 Lee Road 430.

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

Lee Co. Commission approves 1.7 million in budget adjustments March storm cost county more than $3 million in debris removal

Photo by Michelle Key/Opelika Observer

By Michelle Key Publisher The Lee County Com-

NOW OPEN

mission met Monday night to discuss necessary budget adjustments because of the expenditures

related to the March 4 tornadoes.

County AdministraSee Commission, page B10

Indoor shooting range is open to the public

2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA

B10 July 31, 2019

pelika O Observer

Local service organizations hold meetings last week Eric Speakman talks football Lowell Bonds visits the Opelika Lions Club last week with Opelika Kiwanis Club

Special to the Opelika Observer Coach Erik Speakman joined the Opelika Kiwanis Club this week to discuss the upcoming Opelika High School football season. Pictured above: Ronnie Wilson, Head Coach Erik Speakman, Coach Jonathan Chandler and Club president Bob Harris.

Happy Hour Rotary Club hosts Marley Halter from the Auburn University Community Garden last week

Special to the Opelika Observer Past International Director of Lions International Lowell Bonds, right, was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club. He presented an update of activities and projects on an international level, including an upcoming training conference for club officers. The training will include navigation of the International web page. Bonds was introduced by Lion Brooka Stokes, left.

Commission, from B9

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Auburn University’s Community Gardens Marley Halter spoke to the Happy Hour Rotary Club about the amazing things that the community garden does for Lee County during a recent meeting.

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

tor Roger Rendleman requested the adjustments for the amount of $1,786,416 in order recognize a portion of funds that have been requested for reimbursement from FEMA as accounts receivable in the fiscal year 2019 budget.

The nearly $1.8 million amount is a “reasonable estimate of a portion of the costs for budgeting purposes only” according to a document provided to the commission by Rendleman.

The March storms have cost the county more than $4 million dollars in debris removal, administrative costs and other expenses. The anticipated FEMA reimbursement will be approximately 75% of the approved expenses with an anticipated additional 12.5% reimbursement coming from the Alabama EMA. The commission approved the proposed budget adjustments as presented by Rendleman.

In other business, the commission: • approved a motion to ratify and approve claims for invoices • announced upcom-

ing term expirations for positions on the following boards: - Youth Development Board - Lee County Public Building Authority - East Alabama Health Care Authority - Horseshoe Bend Regional Library - Lee County Recreation Board for both the Beulah and Beauregard Districts • approved to fund travel expenses for the commission members to travel to Washington, D.C. for the Regional State Leadership Day in October of this year • approved a bid from Hudmon Construction for the amount of $3,462,379 to complete Phase I of the work at Beauregard Park • approved a bid from Mobile Communications, Inc for the amount of $37,612 for equipment installation and equipment for four Chevy Tahoes operated by the Lee County Sheriff’s office • approved a budget adjustment to cover the final expenses for the HVAC replacement project - phase II at the detention facility. Rendleman requested that the commission recognize $339,000 of previously un-budgeted revenue and

allocated $398,000 of reserve fund balance in the general fund in order • selected Commissioner Johnny Lawrence to represent the commission on the 2019-2020 ACCA Legislative Committee • approved the renewal of a 3-year lease agreement with the City of Smiths Station for use of the government center for the Revenue Commission Office, Probate Judge and sheriff’s office for an amount of $3743.22 per month • approved a contract renewal for a 3-year period with Advanced Disposal Services Alabama LLC for the disposal of solid waste • reviewed a list of outside agencies requesting appropriations for the upcoming 2019-20 budget to be further reviewed during budget work sessions • received a copy of the unaudited 2018 financial statements from County Chief Financial Officer Neil Cyriac The commission meets on the 2nd and 4th Monday nights of every month unless otherwise noted. Meetings are held in the courthouse annex at 5 p.m. and are open to the public.

The next meeting will be on Aug. 12.

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B11 July 31, 2019

LEGALS 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

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA 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

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

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 acknowl-

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

edges, 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. Evidence 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

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 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

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of James Webb Carlisle, Deceased Case No.: 2019-B-120 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters of Administration of said deceased, JAMES WEBB CARLISLE, having been granted to SYNETTA SMITH on July 22, 2019, by Hon. Bill English, Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are hereby required to present same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Dated on this 22nd day of July,

2019.

HON. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Legal Run 7/31/19, 08/07/19 & 08/15/19

NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE CASE NO. 2019-B-017 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of WILLIE JEWEL HERBERT, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Eddie N. Herbert on July 23, 2019, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 7/31/19

STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2019-B-126 LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF FURREL W. BAILEY, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said Furrel W. Bailey, deceased, having been granted to Regina D. Parker, this 25th day of July, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred.

Regina D. Parker, Personal Representative 334-745-2564 Jeffery A. Hilyer Attorney at Law P.O. Box 30 Opelika, Alabama 36803-0030 Legal Run 7/31/19, 08/07/19 & 08/15/19

See Legals, page B13

ALASCAN CLASSIFIEDS AUCTIONS DR. WALTER & Joyce Long Estate Auction, 9am, 8/3/2019, 2010 Stonebridge Drive, Dothan, AL. Home, furniture, household, tools, Republican Political memorabilia. 67.2 acres, Gilmore Rd; 20.6 acres Hwy 55 S. of Ashford; 6.4 acres, house & mobile home, PrevattRd.. 10%BP; buyer broker participation. www.Bobbylewisauction. com or www.auctionzip. com. Bobby Lewis #1675, 1-334-726-1700.

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• Associate Degree in business or social services field plus two years of experience in dealing with the public and accounting for money, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience handling and accounting for money and involving public contact preferred.

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We would like to thank the following businesses for sponsoring one or more of our newspaper boxes or racks around Lee County • Better Bodies Massage Institute • Interim HomeCare • Letts Investment Services • Opelika Theatre Company • Point-Broadband • Three Keys Properties, LLC

pelika O Observer

B12 July 31, 2019

Sen. Doug Jones supports final passage of 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Extension; issues statement on confirmation of Sec. of Defense Mark Esper Special to the Opelika Observer Sen. Doug Jones (DAla.) voted last week to pass the Never Forget the Heroes Act to permanently reauthorize the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, which provides compensation for individuals who were injured during the 9/11 attacks or debris removal efforts, and for the families of those killed in the attacks. The fund was set to stop taking new

claims in December 2020.

“The heroic first responders who answered the call of duty after the terrorist attacks on Sept.

11, 2001 deserve nothing less than the full support of the United States government,” Jones said.

“These men and women are the very definition of American patriots, and our nation will forever owe them a debt of gratitude for their bravery and sacrifice. The permanent extension of this program will ensure that every

survivor, first responder, and family member gets the care and compensation they are entitled to.”

The House of Representatives passed the Never Forget the Heroes Act last week. The bill will now head to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

Senator Jones had previously cosponsored similar legislation in the Senate to permanently reauthorize this program.

Sec. of Defense Mark Esper Jones released the fol-

Alabama sets record with more than 3.5 million registered voters Special to the Opelika Observer Alabama Sec. of State John H. Merrill announced that Alabama continues to shatter state voter registration records with more than 3.5 million registered voters in Alabama.

“Since Jan. 19, 2015, we’ve registered 1,301,012 new voters!

We now have a state record 3,500,894 registered voters in Alabama! Those numbers are unprecedented and unparalleled in the history of the state and per capita no state in the Union has done as much as we’ve done in that same period, and I’m very, very proud of that,” Merrill said.

“It should be noted that the 201 Registrars in our state have removed more than 790,000 people from the voter rolls because those people have moved away, they’ve passed away, or they’ve been put away for disqualifying felonies, and whenever that happens, they

need to come off the voter rolls,” Merrill added.

In the State of Alabama, 96% of all eligible African Americans are registered to vote, 91% of all eligible Caucasian Alabamians are registered to vote and 94% of all eligible Alabamians are registered to vote.

“For four years, six months, and six days, we have made a concerted effort to ensure that each and every eligible U.S. citizen that is a resident of Alabama is registered to vote and has a valid photo ID,” said Secretary Merrill.

It should also be noted that Alabama has broken every record in the history of our state for voter participation in the last four major elections.

On March 1, 2016, more than 1.25 million Alabamians voted, breaking every record in the history of the state for participation in a presidential primary.

On Nov. 8, 2016, more than 2.1 million Alabamians voted,

breaking every record in the history of the state for participation in a Presidential General Election.

On Dec. 12, 2017, more than 1.3 million Alabamians voted and participated in the special U.S. Senate election, and on Nov. 6, 2018, more than 1.7 million Alabamians voted, again breaking every record in the history of the state for a midterm general election.

Alabama is also the only state in the Union in which upon adjudication of the lawsuit regarding the Photo Voter ID Law, the law remained intact as it was written.

No instance has ever been recorded in which someone has been denied the right to vote for not having the proper credentials.

“Voter registration is important, but voter participation is better.

Fortunately for our state, there’s both. I am proud to ensure that in Alabama, we make it easy to vote and hard to cheat,” Merrill said.

lowing statement on his support for Mark Esper’s confirmation to serve as the next Secretary of Defense last week: “Dr. Esper is well qualified to serve as Secretary of Defense by virtue of his experience serving in the Army, his numerous positions as a Congressional staffer in both the House and Senate, his experience working in private industry, and his service in various roles at the Pentagon, including most recently as Secretary

of the Army. As Secretary of the Army, Dr. Esper has demonstrated a strong commitment to the wellbeing and preparedness of our troops and has also shown himself to be a man of character, integrity and intelligence.

After months without a confirmed Secretary, Dr. Esper will bring muchneeded stability to the Department as it works to fulfill its national security mission and maintain a strong presence in various strategic locations around

the world. I believe that he will also uphold the commitment that he made to me to keep the Department of Defense apolitical and to always stand up and give his candid, honest advice to the President and other members of the administration. I’m grateful for all of the assistance that he provided me as Secretary of the Army, and I’m proud to have voted for Dr. Esper’s nomination. I believe he will be an excellent secretary of defense.”

Sec. John Merrill co-authors ‘Alabama: The Bicentennial’ history book benefitting fourth-grade students Special to the Opelika Observer Alabama Sec. of State John H. Merrill and co-author Tom Ward have released the history book “Alabama: The Bicentennial,” celebrating Alabama’s 200th anniversary of statehood in 2019.

Alabama: The Bicentennial celebrates more than 400 past and present Alabamians, including “athletes, authors, agriculture, artists, autos, achievers, aviation, armed forces, astronauts and advocates for freedom.”

Every school in Alabama that has a fourth-grade classroom will receive a complimentary copy. Seventy-five percent of book proceeds will be directed to the Friends of the Alabama Archives, a nonprofit auxiliary to the Alabama Department of Archives and History.

The Friends organization will use the funds to sponsor fourth-grade field trips to the Archives by schools that otherwise lack financial resources for the trip. Although Secretary Merrill is the author of Alabama: The Bicentennial, he has not and will not receive compensation in any form.

“The great Rudyard Kipling once said, ‘If history were taught in the form of stories, it would not be forgotten,” Merrill said.

“When we encourage our students to read and tell these stories, we preserve the legacies of Alabama leaders of yesterday and today.

When Tom and I started this project two years ago, we wanted to tie together the people, events, groups, and places that define the history in this state that we call home. Tom and I are so excited to release

this book about a state and its people that are so special to us!”

The mission of Alabama 200 is to celebrate Alabama’s bicentennial to commemorate the stories of Alabama’s people, places and path to statehood.

Secretary Merrill would like to thank corporate sponsors like ALFA and the Alabama Power Company for generous donations, which help place books in every school in Alabama with fourth-grade classrooms. He would also like to thank Steve Murray, director of the Alabama Department of Archives & History, for making this project possible.

Alabama: The Bicentennial is available for purchase at the Alabama Department of Archives & History and alabama200book.com. It will soon be available in bookstores around the state.

Don’t be deceived by a radio or TV ‘sound bite,’ read the whole statement

By Greg Markey For the Opelika Observer Many reasons are given for the lack of civility in society, which impedes compromise between Red (conservative) and Blue (liberal) people.

This has led to “tribalization;” people with similar traits, backgrounds, and opinions keep their distance from the rest.

Campaign ads feature half-truths and even falsehoods. Politicians rarely deal with the other party’s legislators as they fear a primary opponent to their Right or Left—so why make these ideologies angrier?”

I suggest hostility toward cultural elements can be minimized rather easily.

When you hear a radio or TV “soundbite” that is less 30 seconds, go to the source to see what the speaker really meant. If you hear someone say “Osama Bin Laden is a great man,” don’t just call the speaker a traitor.

Read the entire 3 or 4 sentence statement in a transcript from the broadcast.

Maybe the politician said, “To militant Muslims, Osama Bin Laden is a great man. But we Americans know that he is terrible and his actions reprehensible.”

Selected editing is often used to make a speaker look bad, corrupt or un-American.

This clipped approach, though despicable, furthers the radio or TV commentators’ agenda. One wishes

it never happens. We citizens must try better to not just hear a “soundbite” and to instead see it as a whole thought.

“When I use a word,” said Humpty Dumpty in Through the Looking Glass, it means what I choose it to mean—neither more nor less.” Replied Alice, “The question is whether you can make words mean so many different things.” Humpty responded: “The question is, ‘which is to be master—that’s all.” In 2019 do we want just “soundbites” to define what someone says?

Or are we masters of reading more about a subject, before castigating somebody?

U.S. senators and representatives have software available that

can read, for example, the 2,300 page Affordable Care Act, and locate “hot topics” for their constituents. A Florida congressman in a district with many retirees can study the impact on them. A New York senator can focus on a section on abortion and get “read up” on that for women’s choice voters.

Upon hearing that many congressmen DID NOT read the full 2,300 pages of the AC A health bill, or Obamacare, people were furious. Comments ranged from “What the heck are they doing up there in DC?” to “What are we paying them for?” or “Let’s get the bums out!” I disagree: congressmen and senators have a lot to do in Washington, while

serving us. Successful members learn they do not have read every bill completely. They can employ trusted and experienced staff members as gatekeepers to summarize the bills.

In late July 2009, U.S. Rep. John Conyers, a Michigan Democrat, said: “Members get up and say ‘Read the bill’…what good is reading the bill if it’s a thousand pages and you don’t have two days and two lawyers to find out what it means after you read the bill?”

Conyers was frustrated with “Read the Bills” talk but understood pressures on House members. An Act such as Obamacare, touching onesixth of the economy, does merit substantive

reading, though.

It is a lot easier to read a bill such as the USA Patriot Act, which emerged for George W. Bush’s signature at a total of nearly 300 pages. The president signed the bill less than seven weeks after Sept. 11, 2001. Senators and representatives were under intense strain in getting this national defense bill passed.

But reading 300-some pages perhaps 1215 hours. That beats reading 2,300 pages or even more.

Greg Markley is a longtime Lee County journalist and a former member of the Executive Board of the Lee County Literacy Coalition. He has been an avid reader since he was eight years old.

pelika O Observer

B13 July 31, 2019

Rep. Mike Rogers reports from Washington: Democrats’ agenda is running off the tracks Issues statement of Mueller investigation - calls it ‘Witch Hunt 2.0”

By Rep. Mike Rogers Special to the Opelika Observer

W

hen it comes to the business of the People’s House, it seems Democrats just cannot focus in on what matters to the American people like a booming economy, job creation and securing our porous border.

Over four months have passed since Attorney Gen. William Barr announced there was no collusion nor obstruction in The Mueller Report, but somehow this week Democrats are having Robert Mueller on Capitol Hill to try to waste even more time and taxpayer dollars to try to do what-

ever they can to make President Trump look bad.

After the recent embarrassment on the House Floor by Speaker Nancy Pelosi breaking the House Chamber rules, the double standard within the Democrat party continues.

This week, the House will vote to take a stand against the anti-Semitic BDS movement.

It seeks to delegitimize and isolate Israel through the boycotts, divestment and sanctions. This is a watered down version of the Senate bill that passed with 77 votes.

Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi continues to kowtow to the Socialists members of her Caucus and refuses to take a strong stand

against anti-Semitism and allow a vote on the stronger Senate package.

On top of this, a member of “The Squad” – Rep. Ilhan Omar – introduced a pro-BDS bill.

Israel is one of America’s greatest allies and this type of behavior stuns me.

Democrats continue to push for open borders. They don’t care about drug and sex trafficking or bad actors entering our country. In fact, they want free health care for those illegally coming to America.

These radical Democrats also want to do away with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Their calls

for this undermine our national security and honestly make no sense at all.

I will continue to stand strong with President Trump on securing our borders, supporting Israel and continuing to keep our economy booming.

As always, I want to hear from you on this or any issue.

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

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

You can like my Facebook page at facebook.com/ CongressmanMike-

DRogers or follow me on Twitter and Instagram using the handle @RepMikeRogersAL, and subscribe to my YouTube page by visiting youtube.com/ MikeRogersAL03 Witch Hunt 2.0 is a Disaster for Democrats Congressman Mike Rogers made the following statement today on Democrats having Robert Mueller testify before Congress over four months after the Mueller Report was released finding no collusion and no obstruction with the Trump campaign and Russia.

“Trump Derangement Syndrome was on full display today in Washington. The disingenuous, hypocritical Democrat

majority in the House cannot and will not accept the fact that President Trump won the 2016 election fair and square. At today’s hearing, their angerfueled conspiracy theories came crashing down at the expense of Robert Mueller’s reputation. Mueller’s performance proves that this was nothing more than a Deep State staff-driven exercise to frame President Trump.

Democrats should be working on behalf of the American people instead of their radical Socialist base.”

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

Medicare for all will cripple doctors, hospitals

By Sally C. Pipes Special to the Opelika Observer Americans have health on their minds.

Nearly four in 10 voters think health care is the most important policy issue our country faces.

Some lawmakers -- including several Democratic presidential candidates -- think a government takeover of the nation's health insurance system is the answer.

But Medicare for All isn't what voters are looking for. It would drive doctors from the profession and cripple hospitals.

Fewer of America's brightest students will pursue medicine.

Ultimately, Medicare for All would make it harder for patients to gain access to care.

Flowers, from B9 this administration.

He worked hard and alone with his big sister Ivey to put this plan together. They worked the legislature together diligently day and night to secure passage, and they did it the right way.

The best decision and accomplishment Ivey achieved is getting Bonner to be her chief of staff and right hand.

In addition, our coal industry will be helped immensely by the docks expansion. The outstanding Walker County delegation of Sen. Greg Reed and Reps. Connie Rowe

Already, the United States is facing shortages in the supply of care. Our nation will be short more than 120,000 doctors by 2032. Rural and underserved communities will be hit hardest.

In many ways, this is a stress-driven shortage. More than four in 10 physicians report being burnt out.

Around half plan to change career paths.

A similar proportion wouldn't recommend that their children go into medicine.

A survey of physicians found that "bureaucratic tasks" were the most common contributor to burnout. More than one-third cited long hours as a stressor; a similar share pointed to insufficient pay.

Two of every 10 docand Tim Wadsworth worked for passage for this reason and other important road projects are in the works for their area.

Ivey has called for a special election for the vacant House Seat 42.

This seat was held by longtime Rep. Jimmy Martin of Clanton who recently passed away.

The primary will be Aug. 20.

It is definitely a Republican district and has always been a Chilton County seat, but it may move to Autauga. The population of Autauga has grown so much that almost exactly the same number of voters are in Autauga as Chilton. There are three candidates in the primary from Chilton

tors said government regulations contribute to burnout.

Medicare for All would make these problems worse. A government takeover of healthcare would smother doctors in new bureaucratic tasks. Meanwhile, patients would consume even more care, now that it's free. Doctors would have to work longer hours to meet that demand.

And they'd do so for less pay. Medicare for All envisions paying doctors at Medicare's rates, which are significantly lower than those for private insurance. Physicians would receive about 30 percent less for procedures including hernia repairs or gallbladder removals, compared to current private rates. Reimand they are all beating each other up. The lone candidate from Autauga, Van Smith, is favored to win the seat. He will more than likely prevail. He is extremely popular, qualified and connected. Smith has the endorsement of ALFA and the business interests in the state. He is a longtime ALFA and rural co-op board member. It is still a quasi-rural district.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist.

His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers.

He served 16 years in the state legislature. Flowers may be reached at www. steveflowers.us.

bursement rates for emergency visits and chest x-rays would be 60 % lower.

Asking doctors to treat more patients for less money is no way to address the looming physician shortage. Practicing doctors will leave the profession, and budding doctors will consider other lines of work.

Hospitals would also see revenues decline under Medicare for All. Currently, hospitals receive just 87 cents for every dollar they spend on Medicare patients.

Over two-thirds of hospitals lose money on Medicare inpatient services.

Hospitals depend on private insurers to stay in the black. By eliminating private insurance, Medicare for

All will deprive hospitals of the revenue they need to balance their books. One study estimates hospitals will lose $151 billion in annual revenue under Medicare for All. Hospitals would likely have to cut staff or eliminate services.

Some might close entirely. Already, one-fifth of rural hospitals are in such poor condition that they are at risk of closing.

These dire scenarios are not hypothetical.

They're the reality in single-payer systems in other countries.

In the United Kingdom's National Health Service, a majority of general practitioners said in 2017 they felt pressure due to long working hours, increasing workloads and burdensome paperwork. Two in

five planned to leave direct patient care by 2022. That's twice as many as were planning to quit in 2005.

Many British hospitals lack the funds to replace outdated and low-quality equipment.

Voters are right to focus on health care.

But if Democrats interpret that level of interest as an opportunity to sell Medicare for All, they'll be sorely disappointed.

Sally C. Pipes is president, CEO, and Thomas W. Smith Fellow in Health Care Policy at the Pacific Research Institute.

Her latest book is The False Promise of Single-Payer Health Care (Encounter).

Follow her on Twitter @sallypipes. This piece originally ran in the Oklahoman.

Legals,

(334) 705-2083.

Legal Run 07/31/2019

to Probate the Will of Henry Lee Walters Jr., in the above stayled matter has been filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by Petitioner LaSonta Reeves and that on the 18th day of September, 2019, at 1:00 p.m. (Central Time), has been set for a hearing on the same in said Court located at 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

Please be advised that if you intend to contest this Petition to Probate the Will of Henry Lee Walters, Jr., that you must file a written response within thirty (30) days hereof with the Clerk of said Probate Court and with counsel for said Petitioner, and/ or your must appear at hearing scheduled in this matter.

Attorney for Petitioner: Raymond L. Jackson, Jr. Attorney at Law PO Box 3575 Auburn, AL 36831-3575 (334) 991-3143 Petitioner: LaSonta Reeves 495 Freestone Drive Newnan, Georgia 30265 Done this the 29th day of July 2019. s/Bill English/ PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 7/31/19, 8/7/19, 8/14/19 and 8/21/19

from B11 City of Opelika ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT August 13, 2019 9:00 A.M. PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY 700 FOX TRAIL I. Election of Zoning Board of Adjustment Officers (Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Secretary).

II. Approval of the May 16, 2018 Zoning Board of Adjustment Minutes.

A. VARIANCE 1. Auburn Equities, LLC, 2810 Pepperell Parkway, C-3, GC-P zoning district, Requesting a 26-foot front yard setback variance from the 40-foot minimum front yard setback requirement in the GC-P zoning district (gateway corridor overlay).

NOTE: 1. The City of Opelika complies with the Americans with Disabilities Acts.

2. The City of Opelika meeting facilities are accessible.

3. If you need special assistance please call Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at

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

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE ESTATE OF HENRY LEE WALTERS, JR., DECEASED PETITION TO PROBATE WILL NOTICE OF HEARING BY PUBLICATION TO: Any unknown heirs of Henry Lee Walters, Jr., deceased, and: Derek Lamar Walters address unknown (adult son of Henry Lee Walters, Jr., deceased) Eric Walters address unknown (adult son of Henry Lee Walters, Jr., deceased) Please take notice that a Petition

pelika Observer O

B14 July 31, 2019

Like crossword puzzles? Sudoku?

Play online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/

This week’s Scramblers Answers: 1. Vessel, 2. Chasm 3. Severe 4. Release - Solution: Shave

Even Exchange Answers 1. Beast, Boast 2. Shower, Slower 3. Thank, Think 4. Wield, Yield 5. Crutch, Crunch

6. Aster, After 7. Shack, Shock 8. Rocket, Locket 9. Blank, Bland 10. Pester, Pewter

pelika O Observer

B15 July 31, 2019

COMICS

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

B16 July 31, 2019

pelika Observer O

This week’s puzzle answers:

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