Opelika Observer - 08-08-18 E-Edition

pelika O Observer

Vol. 10, No. 44

Wednesday, August 08, 2018

Opelika, Alabama

Aug. 13 - 4th Annual Comedy Cafe Aug. 17 - The Velcro Pygmies in Opelika!

Aug. 21 - Wine Tasting Aug. 23 - Four Corners Ministries Annual Banquet Aug. 24 - James Gregory “The Funniest Man in America” Wine Down Wednesday is week 5 - 8 p.m. www.bottlingplanteventcenter.com • every 334-705-5466

“By local people, for local people.”

Letter from Mayor Gary Fuller announces new Commission on Crime and Violence

Peace walk held last Saturday in Opelika

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

By Michelle Key Editor A nonviolence peace walk was held on Saturday to promote peace, love and unity in the community by taking a

stand against violence.

Councilwoman Tiffany Gibson-Pitts said that there were more than 24 people in attendance.

“I was happy to be a part of the 2018 Peace

“Like all of you, I am disheartened by the recent spike in violence in the City we love.

We’re all in this together.”

Mayor Gary Fuller

Special to the Opelika Observer

See Peace , page A10

‘Back 2 School Bash’ to benefit BigHouse Foundation

Violent crime, particularly gun violence in the United States is at epidemic levels. In Opelika, we have seen a sharp increase in violent crime with three homicides during the

past 14 days. While law enforcement is crucial, the solution

to the problem is far more complex. Our police department

has been working to build relationships and partnerships with the community.

Community policing has been identified as an effective and workable investment but simply hiring more police officers See Fuller, page A2

National Night Out brings together community leaders, law enforcement, citizens; promotes unity, safety

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

By Michelle Key Editor Cornerstone Family Chiropractic is preparing to host their 8th Annual “Back 2 School Bash” benefitting The BigHouse Foundation Aug. 17 from 4-7 p.m.

With nearly 100 sponsors, the event is expected to draw a crowd of more than 2000 people. There will be live music, games, food and give-aways.

The beginning The first event was held in 2011 and supported the Chizik family’s “YouTurn Foundation,” which helped support several local ministries including Big House. That foundation dissolved when Coach Chizik went to coach at a different school

and Cornerstone decided to make the Big House the beneficiary of the annual event because of their mission and heart for serving the community.

Dr. Rusty Herring, founder and owner of Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, stated that their mission is Building healthy families and uplifting the community.

“Our mission goes beyond the four walls of Cornerstone,” Herring said. “We are changing the trajectory of health for families in our community and making a positive impact in the community.

This event is a way to “uplift our community” by providing a fun family event to kick off the school year.”

See Cornerstone, page A5

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Left: Mayor Gary Fuller presents a proclammation to Valestine Penn for her role in organizing this year’s event.

Right: Fuller, Valestine, Oscar Penn and OPD Chief John McEachern.

The Firing Pin discusses expansion of business, relocation of retail store

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor An Opelika-based firearms and ammunition retailer is preparing for a major expansion in 2019.

Construction is underway on the future home of "Firing Pin Shooting Sports" at 2195 1st Ave., a project slated for completion in early January.

Currently located at 3900 Pepperell Parkway, the business's new facility will

Index OPINION.....................................A4 COUNTY NEWS............................A5 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 CALENDAR................................A10

SPORTS.......................................B1 LEGALS..............................B4 RELIGION...................................B12 ENTERTAINMENT......................B14

feature a 12-lane indoor shooting range, increased retail space, classroom for firearm safety courses and tag of "Shooting Sports" added to the business's name.

"We wanted to get as close as we could to Tiger Town without being in Tiger Town. With that being a hot spot for the city and the county, we just saw this as

See Range, page B5

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A2 August 08, 2018

Fuller,

dren kill, rape, maim and steal without remorse. This is a vicious cycle that often results in young people making mistakes that change the course of their lives while deeply hurting their community in the process.

Most violent crimes involve a perpetrator and victim of the same race. That is certainly the case in Opelika.

The real problem we face is a disconnect of teenagers and young adults and a culture of violence among them.

In many urban neighborhoods, the street or thug culture is real. Many teenagers and young adults are school drop-outs and are chronically out of work. With few skills, they subsist through the underground economy or of illicit drug trading and crime.

An important step our community can take is to begin the process of rebuilding the nuclear family which is the basic social unit consisting or parents and their children living in one household.

This will provide emotional and financial stability to our children and their parents. It will provide incentives for parents to achieve and set a good example for their children to follow. It will require parents to take personal responsibility for themselves and their children. We cannot legislate good parenting, but we can work on strategies and programs to strengthen the family.

Like all of you, I am disheartened by the recent spike in violence in the city we love.

I have begun the process of appointing a “Commission on Crime and Violence” in Opelika. This commission will include our top political, church, business, law enforcement and community leaders.

In my opinion, we need a collaborative effort to reduce homicides and shootings in our neighborhoods by targeting individuals and families who are at greater risk of be-

from A1 will not solve the problem. Cities like Opelika cannot arrest their way out of this situation. Our plans must be built around intervention, prevention and community organizations, along with law enforcement.

I get emails and phone calls, as do members of the city council, from people fed up with crime.

If we’re going to change this, and we will, our residents must be part of the solution.

Every person in every part of our city deserves to live in a safe neighborhood. I challenge all citizens to join us as we do the work necessary to ensure that everyone can reach their full human potential.

OPD cannot pinpoint exactly what may have caused the recent rise in violent crime, but most crimes are drugrelated and involve people who engage in other high-risk behaviors.

Most homicides result from conflicts among individuals with each other. I wish people had a better way to resolve their conflicts. It is a sad fact that a tiny percentage of the city’s population is responsible for the majority of violent crimes.

In some neighborhoods, too many children are without parents, relatives, teachers, coaches or clergymen to teach them right from wrong, give them loving and consistent discipline, show them the moral value of hard work and study and bring them to cherish the selfrespect that comes only from respecting life, liberty and the property of others.

Think about how many children grow up where parents neglect and abuse them, where other adults and teenagers harass and harm them and where drug dealers exploit them.

Not surprisingly, some of these chil-

coming perpetrators or becoming victims of this type of violence.

Potential strategies may include connecting with high-risk youth and families, family stability, career development and a gun violence intervention program.

The goal should be to strengthen the capacity of residents in high risk neighborhoods to develop community initiatives that prevent violence from occurring.

We need to educate our residents about available resources, reinforce the notion that violence is not acceptable and help community leaders improve neighborhood surroundings to create more peaceful environments.

As we work to turn trends around, our city’s recent violent confrontations have involved gun violence, drug trafficking and domestic violence that often turns deadly. We are providing the resources to address the unsolved homicides.

Be assured that the city council and I are open-minded to finding solutions on what can be a deterrent to violent crime.

I want to thank Chief John McEachern and our police officers who are on the front lines fighting and investigating crime every day.

We’ve been running proactive patrols in high crime areas for several months and we’ll continue to do that.

Our police officers have a tough job, and they do it with efficiency, courage and compassion.

I am proud of our OPD officers who are out there every day connecting with our youth, senior citizens and neighborhood groups.

We’re all in this together. I’m asking you to do your part to help us be “more than expected and nothing less than genuine.”

I’m praying about this everyday knowing that God is in charge. Your prayers will be most appreciated.

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Special to the Opelika Observer The Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau has announced the addition of new staff member Anthony Terling to be the sports and event development manager for the growing organization.

Terling has worked in marketing and sports event management since graduating from Auburn University at Montgomery in 2009 with a undergraduate degree in sports management. He later went on to earn his master’s degree in the same field. Most recently, he served as vice president external affairs for the Alabama Sports Festival Foundation (ASF), a nonprofit organization responsible for producing the Alabama State Games.

“The growth in the Auburn-Opelika area and the continued increase in visitor spending has afforded us the opportunity to create this much-needed position,” said AOTB President John Wild.

“Anthony’s experience and expertise will be an

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

asset in attracting and developing new sporting events and tournaments for our community which already features the facilities and resources necessary for success in this market segment.”

Terling’s primary responsibility will be to market the area as a sporting event destination, soliciting travelers, groups and event planners from around the nation. He is also implementing a new volunteer program that will be essential for large-scale events of all types including not only tournaments, but also community events such as “On the Tracks,” “Summer-

Night Art Walk” and “Bo Bikes Bama.”

Terling serves in several community organizations such as the Auburn Young Professionals and on an advisory board focusing on sports management. He and his wife Lindsey live in Auburn with their two sons.

The Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau is a nonprofit service organization driving economic success and enhancing the quality of life in our community through tourism and travel.

For more information, contact Robyn Bridges, vice president, at rlbridges@aotourism.com or 334-887-8747.

Gary Fuller, Mayor of Opelika

Subscribe to the Opelika Observer Today!

Name: Address: City: Phone number: Email address:

AO Tourism welcomes new staff member Anthony Terling

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Phone: 334.749.8003 Fax: 334.749.8009 editor@opelikaobserver.com

Editor: Michelle Key Associate Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Woody Ross, Doug Horn and Emily Key Photographer: Robert Noles

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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A3 August 08, 2018

Airbnb announces tax agreement with Opelika Special to the Opelika Observer

Airbnb announced a tax agreement last Wednesday with the City of Opelika that authorizes the company to collect the local hotel tax on behalf of its Opelika hosts and remit the revenue directly to the city.

With the tax agreement in place, Opelika will benefit from people visiting the region and staying longer through home sharing.

Effective Aug. 1, Airbnb will automatically collect and remit the Opelika Lodging Tax (seven percent) for taxable bookings, making the process

Cornerstone,

from A1

About Cornerstone CFC provides specific care and attention to children and adults through stateof-the-art technology, premier office amenities, and attentive and involved staff members. Dr. Herring and everyone at Cornerstone truly have a heart to serve others by helping people get back to the things they enjoy most in life. our mission They strive to provide chiropractic care that

seamless and efficient for local Airbnb hosts and the city.

“Our hosts want to pay their fair share, and we want to help,” said Tom Martinelli, Southeast policy director for Airbnb. “Our Opelika host community provides a tremendous service to the city by allowing more visitors to stay in Opelika and spend money with local businesses.

This tax agreement will only enhance the economic impact and deliver a new revenue stream for the city.”

Collecting and remitting hotel taxes can be incredibly complicated. The rules were designed for traditional hospitality

is affordable for the whole family.

Their goal is for every person in the Auburn-Opelika area to express their health potential. At Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, they are there to help individuals and their families achieve better health and to equip the community with better health strategies.

About the BigHouse Foundation The BigHouse Foundation was founded in 2009 as the dream of two college students to impact the world of foster care in a positive way. After being

providers and large hotel corporations with teams of lawyers and accountants.

For this reason, Airbnb has partnered with more than 370 local governments throughout the U.S. to collect and remit taxes, making the process easy for hosts to pay their fair share while contributing new revenue for local governments.

Of Airbnb’s 370 U.S. tax partnerships, this now marks the company’s fifth in

personally exposed to the needs these children and families have, they knew they could no longer sit back and do nothing. BigHouse now focuses on serving families in two ways, by providing resources and building relationships.

The Mission Statement Our mission is to connect the needs of foster families with the generosity of the community through the love of Jesus Christ. We aim to impact the lives of children in foster care in a positive way through meeting their

Airbnb markets in Alabama.

The Airbnb host community provides particular value to the city via expanded lodging capacity during large events that cause local hotels to reach full capacity.

For example, by far the largest surge of Airbnb guests to Opelika in the history of Airbnb’s platform occurred Nov. 1011, 2017, as Auburn hosted and defeated the second-ranked Georgia Bulldogs.

And statewide data indicates that the home sharing community is complementing — rather than competing with — the Alabama hotel industry.

Alabama. In 2016, Airbnb announced an agreement with the State of Alabama to collect state lodging taxes on all bookings throughout the state.

Airbnb also has agreements with Auburn, Orange Beach and Tuscaloosa to collect their respective lodging taxes.

Nearly 1,100 Airbnb guests experienced Opelika in 2017, which reflected 157% year-over-year growth. Opelika is one of the top 15

needs and serving their foster families.

We are passionate about advocating for these families and educating the community on the needs of children in the foster care system.

In 2017, the event raised $4,948 for The BigHouse Foundation, and vent coordinator, Rachel Wicks said that 100 percent of the proceeds of this year’s event will be donated as well.

Cornerstone Family Chiropractic is located at 323 Airport Road in Auburn.

For more information, call 334-2462252.

According to a recent report from the Alabama Tourism Department, in 2017 Alabama hotels experienced growth in occupancy rates, prices and overall supply — in parallel with Airbnb growth.

This suggests that Alabamians sharing their homes via Airbnb are opening up the state to a new demographic of tourists by catering to travelers who are less able to afford hotels, those who desire to stay in neighborhoods or cities that lack hotels, and families who prefer to vacation together under one roof.

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we need your help Getting on the road to good health

Helping others is what we do in Opelika. The City of Opelika, East Alabama Medical Center, Auburn University and the Casey Family Programs are partnering to provide a mobile wellness clinic for under-served citizens in Opelika. In order to make this dream a reality, we need to raise funds to convert the bus into a clinic. Our goal is to provide free preventative, supportive services to those in need. To help us get on the road to good health, call 334-705-5150, or visit www.eamcfoundation.org and click the donate button.

DONATE TODAY! Our mobile wellness clinic will: • Offer easy-access healthcare • Identity needs in the community • Improve social & health outcomes • Build relationships • Reduce need for foster care • Support children and families • Promote disease prevention

CITY OF

OPELIKA

labam

ADMINISTRATION 334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov

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A4 August 08, 2018

Southern Baptists doing what Southern Baptists do

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The survey was not ead the other day that undertaken to single out Southern Baptists were sinning Alabamians for making a foray into rebuke and ridicule. It was New England. conducted so Baptists could Spending big money to identify which sins were plant churches all over the prevalent and with that inregion. formation devise a strategy Well, there is room. At

By Hardy Jackson to bring the Lord’s plan for last count there are only 325 salvation to those sinners.

Southern Baptist houses of In other words, the survey was an evanworship up there. We’ve got more than gelical tool to be used by evangelicals. that in most Alabama counties, seems And there are few denominations more like. evangelical than Southern Baptists.

Hearing the news, an Alabama newsWhich is why I was not surprised to paper editorialized that New Englanders’ reaction to this invasion is likely to reveal learn that the Southern Baptist Convention has spent millions already and plans how Yankee attitudes toward things to spend millions more to plant churches Southern have or have not changed. in what they consider to be a hotbed of Let me hasten to add that this reaction secular humanism and religious indifferis also likely to reveal, to paraphrase a ence -- New England. writer much wiser than I, that “a Yankee Now it is questionable whether or knows about as much about Southern not more churches will result in more Baptists as a pig knows about the Lord’s converts, especially in a region that is plan for salvation.”

A plan of which, Southern Baptists will traditionally skeptical of anything associated with the South. The very label tell you, they are well aware.

“Southern” stuck to Baptist will surely I’ll get back to that in a moment. cause some up there to fear that people Now, it is possible that New Englanders will welcome the newcomers, though who look like cast members from “Duck Dynasty” will appear out of nowhere, I suspect the possibility of Southern Baptists building Butler Barn tabernacles drag the wayward into a corner, and witness to them. in their quaint little villages will wad the Well, that’s a prejudice Southern Bappanties of local historical commissions. tists will just have to overcome.

However, I also suspect that Southern However, New Englanders need to Baptists will have less of a problem with keep a couple of things in mind. building codes than with New EnglandFirst, down here in Dixie, Evangeliers’ misguided notion that Southern Bapcals are everywhere. The South is the tists are narrow-minded and intolerant. only region in Christendom where the Where did they get such an idea?

Evangelical wing is dominant. What Maybe from a survey that Southern may seem odd (and a little threatening) in Baptists in Alabama conducted over a Massachusetts is normal for us. decade ago.

Second, Evangelicals thrive on conflict.

In case you don’t remember, back then Controversy is their mother’s milk. Being Baptists polled folks around the state, “Southern” makes these Baptists all the asked them a bunch of questions about more spoiling for a fight. They are going their lifestyle and religious beliefs. From up there to take on sin as they define it, the answers they got, the pollsters coneven if New Englanders don’t happen to cluded that a goodly number of Alabamdefine it that way. ians were going to Hell.

Now I don’t claim to be an authority on “See, see,” New Englanders will say, Southern Baptists. Growing up a Meth“we don’t need their judgmental kind up odist in a small town, the churches were here.” close and the congregations intermingled.

Let me pause at this juncture to point out that, historically speaking, you would But we always knew that our Baptist brethren were a bit more intense than us have to go a long way to beat New England Puritans when it comes to being milder Methodists, especially when it came to going out and gathering in the narrow-minded and intolerant. It was strays. only after diversity was forced on them So if New Englanders think that this is by immigration that they began to loosen just a bunch of country bumpkins who up – a little. However, since Southerners will head back South at the first snowfall, and Southern institutions have remained they better think again. comfortably south of them, New EngThe Lord’s plan for salvation, as Southlanders have had little reason to find a place in the mix for the likes of us – until ern Baptists see it, is not seasonal.

My advice to folks up there, get used to now. ‘em. They are coming up to stay.

Which is why I feel it is my Christian Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Produty to point out to New Englanders that fessor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville if they are not careful they will miss the whole point of why Southern Baptists are State University. He can be reached at hjackson@cableone.net. building those churches among them.

I

f you’ve read anything I’ve written thus far, you are aware that I am not good with directions, monkeys, or change in general.

Thankfully, monkeys don’t cross my path very often. But lately, in Opelika, directions and change go hand in hand. The road work seems endless, and for a hometown girl who’s driven these streets for decades without ever paying attention to street names and other such details, it has been a difficult transition.

I don’t know the name of the street where this story begins, but I know exactly where it is and

I

One-by-one

grade. And even though was a little boy. I was I’m not proud of that, it’s in a bad mood. My who I am. mother sent me to my To make up for this, I room before supper. frequented bookstores and “You march upstairs, libraries. I read too much. mister,” she told me.

Novels. Biographies. Com“You go count your edies. Romances. Advenblessings.”

By Sean Dietrich tures. Classics. I read every “But Mama!” I said.

“Count’em one by one, young man, word Lewis Grizzard ever wrote, at make a long list, or you don’t get any least fifty-three times.

My whole life, all I ever wanted to meatloaf.” be was a writer of books.

I’m thirty-some-odd years too Moving right along. Beer. Bislate, but my wife is making meatloaf cuits. Cheese. Birds. Fishing when I tonight. should be working. Sleeping when I So: should be fishing.

My wife—because she loved me Mayonnaise based salads. Duke’s. first.

My wife’s pimento cheese—which And boiled peanuts—just because. is illegal in three counties.

And dogs—every dog.

The people who hurt me—they And people who stop four lanes know who they are. They were like of traffic to save dogs. And people inflatable bumpers in the gutters of who adopt dogs. And people who a children’s bowling alley. They like dogs. And people who spend so bounced this poor bowling ball much time with dogs they start to toward home. think like dogs.

Funny. I thought they were friends.

And saturated fat. Smoked bacon, They weren’t. They were constellacured hams, and runny egg yolks in tions that sailors use to guide ships. my fried eggs.

Norman Rockwell. Will RogAnd cotton clothes that just came ers. Hank Senior. Kathryn Tucker off a summer clothesline.

And the sound wind makes when it Windham.

People with white hair, who makes its way through trees. And the remember when phone numbers had smells of fall. And rain. letters in them. Anyone who can Old radio shows. As a boy, a local remember what the world was like station used to play reruns of Superman, the Lone Ranger, Little Orphan before mass media swallowed it.

My sister—who became a beautiAnnie, the Jack Benny Show, Abbott ful woman. And her husband. And and Costello, and the Grand Ole her daughter. And the child she carOpry. I lived for these shows. ries in her belly.

And the girl I met in BirmingAnd my friends. ham—she’s lived in fourteen differI don’t know where you are. I ent foster homes.

The child in Nashville—whose feet don’t know if your life is good or are too big for her sneakers. She can’t bad. I hope you have shoes that fit, and a forever home. But I don’t afford new ones. know.

Every soul at Children’s Hospital, I don’t know if you sleep in a Birmingham. Doctors, nurses, janihospital bed, or beside someone you tors, cooks, staff, and patients. love. I don’t know if you’ve ever Every child who will be fortunate been to high school. But I want you enough to see tomorrow morning. to know a few things.

Every child who won’t.

I want you to know that I care And tomatoes. Tomatoes remind about you. I want you to know that me of things deeper than just tomayou can be whatever you decide toes themselves. They remind me of women who garden. Women like my to be. I want you to know that bad things don’t last forever. mother, who suffered to raise two And I want you to know that long children after her husband met an ago, a woman once told me that if I untimely end.

Mama. The woman who made me. counted my blessings, I would get meatloaf. I’m glad she made me do The woman whose voice I inherited. that.

Sometimes, I hear myself talking on Because her meatloaf was worth the phone and I realize I sound just it. like her.

Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and I am proud of this. novelist, known for his commentary And books. I have a garage full on life in the American South. His of books. Hundreds of books. No, work has appeared in Southern thousands. Some I have read. Some Living, the Tallahassee Democrat, I haven’t.

Southern Magazine, Yellowhammer I love the smell of old pages, and the feel of paper. I didn’t attend high News, the Bitter Southerner, the Mobile Press Register and he has school. The week after my father’s suicide, I dropped out of the seventh authored seven books.

Phantom Stops how to get there. It takes you from Tiger Town to downtown Opelika and runs in front of the cemetery where I go to talk to my sister. It has morphed over the last few months from a winding country road to a city street with a roundabout and several lanes.

Just beyond the cemetery the road branches in several directions. I stopped there yesterday morning.

Pulled right up to the four-way stop.

Except now there is no four-way stop. In fact, there is no stop at all.

People were kind as I sat there absorbing

By Wendy Hodge

this new change in a long series of changes. An older man waved as he passed by in his pick-up truck, like we tend to do here in the South.

It was a full-handed wave…. a greeting as if I was sitting on my front porch.

I’d like to say that I didn’t repeat my mistake this morning. But you know I did. Out of reflex born from literally thousands of stops at that very

spot, my foot automatically came to rest on the brake. Again, traffic passed me by.

No one honked or looked at me like I was crazy. Maybe by now my car is known for stops at phantom traffic signs?

And as I drove away from the corner, I had to wonder how many times I’ve stopped when there was no reason to…. Not just in my car, but on this crazy, winding, everchanging life we all travel.

I like to think I’ve mastered the art of living to the fullest, that I move forward without fear. When there’s a roadside produce stand, I will

stop and eat the biggest piece of watermelon, just to feel the juice run down my chin. When there’s a spectacular view of a tattered old barn, I will drive that extra twenty miles to stand in a field under a cloud-filled sky and get the perfect picture. When there’s a sunset about to happen, I will listen to the tree frogs and cricket chorus and wait to take in every last drop of sunlight.

When either of my children calls me, no matter the hour, I will be there… no questions asked. When there’s a chance to spend time with my best friend, I will

bend my schedule and rearrange the galaxy if need be to have some hours together.

Not much stops me from the things I love.

But life isn’t all sunsets and watermelon.

There are regrets and fears and choices.

And, no, I have not mastered the art of pushing forward when things are tough.

On the seat of my car is a letter from an old friend… an actual letter, written by hand on lovely stationery… we haven’t spoken in ages, and she wants to reconnect. There were some words spoken that we both regret, and feelings were See Hodge, page A6

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Around Lee County

Spay and neuter and solid waste programs advanced

By Fred Woods Opelika Observer Continued county funding for Lee County’s 18-month-old Spay/Neuter Program was approved, along with a more equitable formula for funding from the four Lee County government entities at the last Lee County Commission

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

meeting.

To start the program in early 2016, Auburn,

Lee County, Opelika and Smiths Station each provided $15,000.

Fourth District Commissioner Robert Ham announced that a new funding formula, based half on each jurisdiction’s share of county population and half on each jurisdiction’s share of total animal surgeries, had been agreed to by all jurisdictions.

Commissioners voted unanimously to apSee County, page B8

Auburn University announces plans to back funding for ocular melanoma research

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Last Tuesday, Auburn University issued a statement announcing that it will back funding for research into more than 30 confirmed cases of ocular melanoma among alumni, employees and faculty.

By working with researchers and those diagnosed with the

cancer, the school said it is striving to determine the underlying cause behind this surge of a disease that normally affects men over the age of 50 and has an incidence rate of every 5-in-1 million people.

“We are engaging geospatial research experts to gather and analyze data that, among other things, will explore poten-

tial links to ocular melanoma in this area, none of which have been definitively found in any previous studies for this very rare cancer. This could help indicate the right and additional paths for future research in finding causes and treatments in the hope of developing a cure,” a statement from Auburn’s Office of Communica-

tions and Marketing read.

The Observer first reported news of this cancer cluster in February, when the number was at 13 confirmed cases.

Those diagnosed with the disease formed the Auburn Ocular Melanoma Facebook group, which has been actively advocating the university and state See Melanoma, page B3

Russell Building Supply breaks ground on new retail store to serve Lee County Special to the Opelika Observer

Tom Lamberth, CEO of Russell Lands, Inc., is proud to announce that Russell Building Supply (a division of Russell Lands) will be opening a new location in Auburn.

During the last 11 years, Russell Building Supply has proudly served the Lee County area’s professional contractors and homeowners for their building material needs.

“With our transition to a full-service Home Center, we look forward to offering a completely new lineup of prod-

A5

ucts including hardware, tools, plumbing, electrical, paint, as well as lawn and garden. Additionally, we are proud to offer a drive-through lumberyard for lumber and building materials for those looking for a convenient way to shop. While maintaining focus on the professional contractors and remodelers, our new location will

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

also better allow us to serve the do-ityourself customer,” said Kirby Scales, general manager of Russell Do it Center and Russell Building Supply.

“We are excited to offer a more efficient layout and easy access, so our customers can get in and out more quickly,” said David Sturdivant, chief operat-

ing officer and chief financial officer of Russell Lands, Inc. “We have been very blessed to be part of the growth of Auburn, as well as the surrounding area, and we look forward to being part of the community even more in the years to come.”

The new store is slated to open in late spring 2019.

August 08, 2018

Auburn couple score top spot in ‘Tailgate Wedding Contest’ Will exchange vows Oct. 13

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor An Auburn couple’s dream wedding is becoming reality thanks to winning Johnsonville’s “Tailgate Wedding Contest” earlier this year.

Former Florida quarterback and college football analyst Tim Tebow announced the nationwide contest prior to the SEC Championship Game between Auburn and Georgia last season. Submissions were to come from engaged SEC fans who were asked why they deserved to have their own “tailgate wedding.”

Chosen out of 386 entries in late May, Frank Pierce and Sophie Roth will receive a fully equipped tailgate, one-of-a-kind wedding experience and possible appearance from Tebow at the ceremony on Oct. 13, the day of Auburn’s home SEC tilt v. Tennessee.

“My grandmother always told me to enter contests, because, ‘you never know you might win.’ One day I had an idea to look up wedding contests, and so I just googled wedding contests,” Roth said. “The first one I saw was ‘Johnsonville Tailgate Wedding Contest’ (and) I looked at the website. I watched the adorable video of Tim Tebow and thought, ‘hmm.... well why not. This is kind of perfect.’”

The couple originally planned their wedding for Sept. 8, 2017 at St. George Island, Florida, but Category 4 Hurricane Irma forced a major change of plans.

Making landfall the day before their wedding, the couple was forced to evacuate the island and cancel their wedding.

“Love at first pot roast” Pierce and Roth both

attended Auburn, but did not meet until after finishing their undergraduate degrees.

A psychology major, Roth was in graduate school for clinical mental health counseling when she said mutual friends set her up on a blind date with Pierce, who was working as an engineer for Neptune Technology Group in Tallassee.

“Frank took me to dinner at Live Oaks and we walked and talked downtown afterwards. On our second date, (he) cooked me a pot roast with all the trimmings,” Roth recalled. “For this starving graduate student, it was love at first pot roast.”

After nearly three years of dating, the couple got engaged in January 2017.

Growing up in Alabama and recognizing the importance of college football in the state, Roth said careful planning was made for their wedding to not interfere with Auburn’s or Alabama’s gridiron contests that weekend.

Homecoming With fewer than 10 weeks until their wedding, Roth said the planning is going smoothly, recently finding the perfect dress to wear along with a venue on the school’s campus.

Despite their arduous journey toward a wedding, Roth said she could not have picked a better story or place for their married life to begin.

“It has been like a dream come true. It is surreal that we are going to get married on Auburn's campus,” Roth said. “To us, Auburn is truly a special place where we found ourselves, found each other and found a home.”

To keep up with their wedding planning journey, follow Johnsonville’s social media accounts or YouTube channel.

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pelika O Observer

A6 August 08, 2018

Opelika Lions Club hosts new “Bulldog Broadcast” announcer, Van Riggs at recent meeting Special to the Opelika Observer Van Riggs, new lead announcer for the Friday night football “Bulldog Broadcast” team, was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club.

He is a 2007 graduate of Auburn University and currently serves as Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeart Media. He has been the host of the 97.7 Kicker FM morning show since 2008. Riggs’ broadcast experience includes serving as the play-by-play announcer for Smiths Station Football from 2009-2017 and as the Auburn University baseball play-by-play announcer from 2012-2016. He is a 3-time ABBY winner for Sportscaster of the Year (2013, 2015, and 2017). He and his wife Bobbi have two children, Braden and Josie.

Riggs was introduced by Lion David Hamlett, right.

Hodge, from A4

hurt. Over the last few years, I have picked up my phone and started to message her, but something stopped me. On my desk is a flyer from Auburn University.

“It’s never too late to come back,” it shouts at me.

Since the day life intervened and I left college, I have dreamed of going back.

More than once, I have picked up a course catalog and marked off the classes I would like to take.

But I have never registered.

Something stopped

me.

Sitting next to me is a man who is easy to be with, funny, sexy, and completely adorable. He laughs often, and his smile is one of my favorite things to see.

He is the kind of man you can hand your heart to and know it is safe. He is my best friend.

He cares for me very much.

His life is more than full, but he makes time for me every day.

He shows me his heart in so many small ways… and in big ways too. He is, if I have any luck at all, my future.

But I haven’t let myself believe any of that.

Something has stopped me.

I think it’s time to

remove those phantom stop signs.

Time to channel my inner Wonder Woman and move forward. So right now, this very minute, I will buy a slice of watermelon and watch the sunset over the water.

Because tomorrow, I have a letter to answer and a course catalog to look over and a heart to open up to all the possibilities of life with fewer stop signs.

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.

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Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

U PC OM I NG EVENT S: • FARMER’S MARKETS •THE GREAT AFFAIRS • ODD ALICE •BACK 2 SCHOOL BASH •SILENT SKY •EXTERRA AUBURN

New minister’s wife shares organizing tips, back-to-school recipes Ann Cipperly’s

Southern

Hospitality

T

he mother of four children, Jennifer Rezek has developed organization ideas for getting her children ready for back to school.

Jennifer is the wife of the Rev. Sean Rezek, the new senior minister at Trinity United Methodist Church. They moved from Graceville, Florida, a little over a month ago and have settled in their home in northside Opelika. Jennifer is sharing recipes for easy breakfasts, afternoon snacks and quick dinners for busy days filled with activities.

With her children spread out in ages, Jennifer has learned short cuts for prepping meals and

adapting recipes over the years. The Rezeks’ oldest child, Christian, 22, is a traveling welder, while their oldest daughter, Juliana, 18, graduated high school this past May from Graceville High School with 36 college credits. Juliana will attend Santa Fe Community State College where she will finish her AA degree, then transfer into the agriculture department at the University of Florida, majoring in animal science.

The Rezels’ two younger daughters, Emily Grace (EG) and Ansley Joy (AJ), attend Opelika schools.

Thirteen-year-old Emily Grace, who attends Ope-

lika Middle School, has been actively involved in musical theater and cheerleading. Ansley Joy is seven and will be attending second grade at Southview. Ansley enjoys “running the house” and anything to do with horses.

Both Jennifer and Sean are from Pensacola, Florida, where they met in high school. When Jennifer was growing up, she was influenced by her grandmother’s love of cooking and baking. Her grandmother lived outside Pensacola where the family would visit her on Sundays and holidays. She would make fried chicken with little pieces of flour

Photo by Ann Cipperly Jennifer Rezek, the mother of four children, has learned short cuts for prepping meals and has adapted easy recipes over the years. Jennifer and her husband, the Rev. Sean Rezek, the new senior minister at Trinity UMC, moved to Opelika a little over a month ago and are enjoying being a part of the community. Their daughters, Emily Grace and Ansley Joy, are attending Opelika City Schools. balls and serve it with creamed corn and other vegetables from her garden. They also visited family in the country in McDavid near Atmore.

There would always be an abundance of good food there as well.

When the Rezeks purchased their house in Opelika, they had walls removed to provide an open space in the living room and kitchen. The girls do homework on a large 5-by-7-foot table in the kitchen while their

mother cooks.

As a busy mom, Jennifer does a lot of meal prep and prefers doing as much ahead as possible. She will prepare spaghetti sauce and chili ahead to freeze.

“I food prep most everything, making clean up time much faster,” says Jennifer.

“I allow and encourage my children to help me in the kitchen. Not only for bonding time, but to put the math lessons they learn in school to

practice. Having a successful turn out in the kitchen gives them quick self-gratification and boosts their self-esteem in a healthy and unspoken way.”

When she is baking, Jennifer will have one or both daughters in the kitchen helping. The girls recently helped make Jennifer’s grandmother’s recipe for fig bars.

She makes bread in a See Cipperly, page A9

‘The Great Affairs,’ ‘Odd Alice’ to perform at Eighth and Rail Aug. 24, 25

The Great Affairs

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor

AUGUST 18 11 A.M. - 3 P.M. COURTHOUSE SQUARE • OPELIKA food • kids games • music • pie in face At the City of Opelika, we are passionate about the United Way of Lee County. This year, we are hosting a fun event and invite you to come participate. We have invited area food truck vendors, as well as downtown Opelika restaurants, to donate a percentage of their proceeds during our event to the city’s overall United Way campaign.

All monies will go to our local organization. We know that the local United Way agencies do great work in our community. There are four main impact areas that United Way focuses on: strengthening families and community; crisis, education; and health. Help us give a little more to United Way of Lee County this year, and have a little fun and eat some good food while you’re doing it!

See you at Courthouse Square on August 18.

Downtown Opelika’s Eighth and Rail will be the city’s destination for live music later this month as “The Great Affairs” and “Odd Alice” are scheduled for performances Aug. 24 and 25.

Following is a breakdown of both bands and ticketing details for each:

Aug. 24 at 9 p.m. “The Great Affairs” Since the 2009 release of their self-titled album “The Great Affairs,” they have made a name through extensive touring and four additional albums that seamlessly blend pop and rock n’ roll.

Inspired by 80s influences like “KISS” and “Queen” and modern-day acts like “The Gaslight Anthem” and

Odd Alice

“The Stereophonics,” they have been dubbed as “a surefire cure for your ailing rock n’ roll heart,” according to Modern Songwriter music critic Eric Allen.

The band’s most recent studio effort, “Six Pack,” was a collection of classic hits from 70s groups including “Thin Lizzy,” “Fleetwood Mac” and See Music, page A8

New board-game lounge opens in downtown Opelika

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor “Tabletop Adventure Lounge” is set to become a destination for board-game enthusiasts in the Opelika-Auburn area.

Opened in early July

by Salem resident John Littleton, the business

contains a collection of more than 100 board games for customers to try out and play.

“I’ve always been more interested in board games more than video games. You can play a nice board game with someone and have a great conversation at the same time,” Little-

ton said. “With (the lounge), I’ve got classics like backgammon, Nine Men’s Norris and chess to more modernday stuff like (Settlers of) Catan and Exploding Kittens.”

After several months of searching for a place to house his business, See Tabletop, page A8

pelika O Observer

A8 August 08, 2018

OTC’s ‘Hairy Tale Rock’ is enchanting; new acting classes to start in September

By Michelle Key Editor The Opelika Theatre Company’s Junior Cast took the stage last weekend and rocked the audience with an energentic and enteraining rendtion of “Hairy Tale Rock” by Charles Lovett.

With a cast of 24 members, the script offered an opportunity for every member to have their moment in the spotlight. The musical is set in the woods of Wychwood, where the resident witch has decided to evict the peasant tenants. Their children, Elton and Earnestine, embark on a mission to raise enough money to save their meager home. Instead of selling their prized possessions for money, they trade them for five magic

beans.

Meanwhile, Rapunzel and her brother Bill have been banished to an enchanted tower because they have refused to cut their extremely long hair. They must either cut their hair or find true love in order to be free from the tower.

In another part of the kingdom, the prince Rupert and princess Iphigenia have pushed their parent’s patience to the limit with their obnoxious and rude behavior. As punishment, they are sent to the wild woods to learn some manners, and to learn about sacrifical true love.

While the story line seems a bit dark and deep for a children’s play, the antics of the characters make it a fun and lively performance. In their

Special to the Opelika Observer

Pictured above is a cast photo from Saturday night’s performance of “Hairy Tale Rock”, The cast was comprised of 24 young people from the surrounding area.

typical, bossy ways, Rupert and Iphigenia decided that Rapunzel and Bill must fall in love with them, setting them all free from the confines of the forest.

However, Elton and Earnestine, are the ones that display the act of sacrifical love by giving up the last chance of saving their home - the magic beans. They plant the beans in hopes of growing some food for the pair in the tower.

It is this act of giving that leads to Rapunzel and Bill falling love with Elton and Earnestine, leaving the prince and princess wondering where they went wrong in their quest to find love and better behavior.

In the end, Rapunzel and Bill decide to cut their luxorious locks and sell them, raising

Tabletop, from A7

Littleton said he selected downtown Opelika’s Collaboration Station because “it was the best place and setting for what I’m looking for.”

Currently, Tabletop operates inside Collaboration Station’s conference

room, but Littleton said he looks to expand both the lounge’s hours and space once customer demand increases.

“A lot of businesses similar to mine have cafes or something else to go along with the board games, but I want Tabletop to be more than that. My vision is for this place to be like the bar from ‘Cheers’ in boardgame form,” Little-

Music, from A7 “Cheap Trick.”

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Volunteer!

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334-528-5923 • www.eamc.org

Contact: Victoria Beasley

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enough money to save the home of their soulmates. It’s a happy ending for everyone but the Rupert and Iphigenia who end up in the enchanted tower where they will have to put up with each other’s bad attitude.

About OTC Opelika Theatre Company was founded in August 2015 as a community theatre group working under the Community Foundation of East Alabama.

OTC received their nonprofit status in early 2017 and is now operating independently.

In just three years, the company has staged seven plays, including “The Odd Couple,” “Steel Magnolias,” “Little Miss Firecracker,” “Emma,” “Wonderland,” “Dashing Thru the Snow” and “Hairy Tale Rock,” plus eight murder mystery dinner theatre events. The group also performed at “Christmas in a Railroad Town” in 2016 and has made several costumed appearances at local events throughout the area.

The Mission Statement “To empower, enlighten, and involve the community to stimulate and develop their inner creative talents in writing, acting, music, dance, design, and leadership by providing quality entertainment for our communities; and to carve paths not yet traveled.”

Show time is scheduled for 9 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased through www.

Future Plans The rest of 2018 will be business as usual for OTC. They will be offering acting classes starting in early Sept. According to Executive Director Marty Moore, classes will be taught in improv, scene study and musical theatre. “These classes will focus on developing confidence, creativity and working as a team,” Moore said.

Classes will be limited in size in order to provide more 1-on-1 interaction. Tuition will be $40 per month plus a $25 registration fee that includes a t-shirt and materials. Call Moore at 334-663-2593 or 334-663-4480 for more information and to register.

There will be a parent showcase following the completion of classes in Nov. or Dec. In October, OTC’s Murder Myster Players will be performing at Niffer’s at the Lake in Lake Martin. Tickets will go on sale in September. The group is also looking at performing a “Hogwarts” themed murder mystery play later in Nov. as well.

To sign up for classes or to volunteer with the organization, please email opelikatheatreco@ gmail.com or visit www.opelikatheatrecompany.com.

ton said.

Littleton added that there is an ongoing fundraiser available through CustomInk.com, selling a limited supply of Tabletop hats for $20 each.

Tabletop is open on Tuesdays for RPG players only from 8 p.m. - midnight. On Thursdays and Fridays, the business is open to all patrons from 5 p.m. - midnight.

bandsintown.com.

Aug. 25 - 8:30 p.m. “Odd Alice” Originally from Eufaula, “Odd Alice” is an 80s, 90s, and 2000s popular rock cover band influenced by groups like “The Black Crows,” “Rage Against the Machine,” “Marshall Tucker Band” and more.

This will be their second show at Eighth and Rail, and serve as an anniversary celebration, according to their Facebook page.

Membership packages are still under development, but Littleton said customers can select one-night or month-long passes for $5 and $20 each, respectively.

For more information, call 334310-1521 or email tabletopadventurelounge@gmail.com.

Collaboration Station is located at 216 S. 8th St. in downtown Opelika.

During the concert, patrons will be able to purchase sushi and slices of the bar’s acclaimed cheesecake.

The show is scheduled to last from 8:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. Tickets will be available at the door the night of the show.

For more information or to view a full events schedule, like and follow the Eighth and Rail Facebook page. The establishment is located at 807 S. Railroad Ave.

pelika O Observer Cipperly,

from A7

bread machine and pulls out the dough for making individual pizzas.

She will precook sausage and hamburger meat and slice pineapple to save time.

Since the girls do not like to eat breakfast, she comes up with creative ideas for the foods they enjoy. She will make taco rollups or ham and cheese sliders that they can hold and eat while walking out the door.

Smoothies are popular on school mornings. Jennifer will have the fruit washed and dried the night before. She will slice bananas and freeze them, so she won’t need to add ice to have a cold drink.

Breakfasts are bigger on weekends. She has a smaller crock pot for making oatmeal overnight for Sunday mornings. She also makes an overnight mason jar parfait for Sunday breakfast.

For afterschool snacks, Jennifer tries to keep it simple but fun. She makes fruit kabobs with pineapple, banana and strawberries.

She will wrap pepperoni around string cheese and secure it with a toothpick for a quick snack.

“I try not to be wasteful,” she says. “I take leftover taco meat and make nachos for an afternoon snack. If we have tacos one night, we will have leftovers for a snack the next day.

I bake chips with taco meat and cheese on top.

For leftover chili, she will crush tortilla corn chips and put chili and cheese on top and bake until the cheese melts.

She also bakes potato tots topped with chili for a hearty snack.

Although Emily doesn’t like some vegetables, she does like edamame, which is similar to sugar peas.

Jennifer rarely uses the microwave, but she will quickly cook edamame in the microwave with a sprinkling of sea salt.

Jennifer has adapted or adjusted almost all her recipes to suit her family’s taste. She also names the dishes after her children.

Sean hunts and fishes, so they eat a lot of venison.

Jennifer purchases grass fed beef and eggs directly from farmers.

She prefers using fresh meat. She cooks chicken

the day she buys it.

She works on a budget for dinners. For prepping dinner, she will cook enough cube steak for three meals. They will eat one that night and freeze two. She plans menus ahead and has a theme for every night to keep it easy.

For instance, Monday night she will prepare an Italian dish and tacos on Tuesdays.

She relies on a crock pot for busy week nights and Sunday meals. She is sharing several of her favorites.

To save time, she will order staples online at night from local grocery stores and picks the order up the following day. She did this when they lived in Graceville.

Sean and Jennifer were married in 1995 shortly after Jennifer finished Pensacola State College with a license in cosmetology.

They moved to Montgomery where Sean finished his BS degree at Huntingdon College. He received a Master of Divinity at Emory.

Their first church was in Ramer, where Sean was a student pastor while attending Huntingdon. He was also a student pastor in Georgia. Sean served as senior pastor at Wesley Chapel in Enterprise four years before going to Graceville First United Methodist Church for three years.

During the last 22 years, Jennifer has enjoyed being a cosmetologist, but recently became a licensed local pastor with the United Methodist church at large, serving in the Alabama West Florida conference.

While she currently is not serving a church, Jennifer feels she is in the will of God by continuing to guide her children in the right direction, as well as supporting her husband in their new ministry at Trinity.

“We purchased a home for the purpose of being here for a long period of time,” she says.

“We have been amazed and overwhelmed with joy for the attention, love and being blessed with goodies. The community has been great, and our neighborhood is wonderful for taking walks.

“Emily Grace and Ansley Joy will grow up here,” Jennifer adds. “This is our home now.”

Cipperly can be contacted at recipes@cipperly. com.

FOOD RATINGS Kate’s Bakes 2963 Lee Road 166, Opelika; Score: 100 Robert’s Frozen Delight 2801 Watson St., Opelika; Score: 99 Auburn University Starbucks 255 Duncan Drive, Auburn; Score: 99 Auburn University Chick-fil-A 255 Duncan Drive,

Auburn; Score: 99 Auburn University Au Bon Pain 255 Duncan Drive, Auburn; Score: 99 Papa John’s Pizza 2107 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika; Score: 98 Edible Arrangements 3794 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika; Score: 90

BREAKFAST DISHES Breakfast Mini Cups 6 eggs scrambled (do not cook) ½ - ¼ lb. ground venison or meat of choice ½ cup shredded mild cheddar cheese Hot sauce to taste (optional) Pour eggs into a mini cupcake pan (Coat pan with non-

stick spray first.)

Add meat of choice (I use different meats in each cup.)

Sprinkle shredded cheese over each cup. Bake approximately 20 minutes at 350 or until eggs are done. Freeze leftovers and reheat in microwave at a later date.

Quick and Easy Breakfast Tacos 4 – 6 eggs, scrambled, cooked Fold in: ½ cup cooked ground venison, turkey or beef ¼ cup shredded mild cheddar cheese Salt and pepper to taste In a small soft torte shell add in all ingredients Top with hot sauce or salsa (optional).

Put leftovers in a sealed container and reheat and serve with in two days.

Mason Jar Oats 1/2 cup quick pats 1/2 cup low-fat milk 1/4 cup Greek yogurt 1/4 cup blueberries or any berry or banana (combination tastes great) ¼ cup granola 1/2 Tbsp. honey Pour oats into a mason jar.

Pour in milk; add in fruit and Greek yogurt. Add granola and top with honey.

Put the top on the Mason jar and place in the refrigerator overnight.

Smoothies These are great for breakfast or afternoon snacks. ½ cup Greek plain yogurt (If you are trying to put weight on your child use whole milk and cream.) ¾ cup sliced

frozen banana ¼ cup strawberries A splash of pineapple juice In a blender, place all the ingredients.

Blend and pour into go cup and enjoy on the way to school.

Breakfast Oatmeal Overnight in Crock Pot 1 cup steel cut or regular oats (not quick oats) 4 cups water 1/2 cup milk 1/4 cup brown sugar 1 Tbsp. butter 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 tsp. cinnamon Combine all in crock pot and cook on low for 8 hours. Serve with milk and cinnamon sugar.

Options: Make it your own and try these options.

Add up to 1 cup raisins/dried fruit before cooking.

Add 1 chopped fresh apple before cooking.

Top with fresh fruit (in season) or canned fruit (drained).

Add a pat of butter or a dollop of jam/preserves.

Drizzle with honey.

Overnight Grits in Crock Pot The amount of grits for your family. (I make the amount for 8 servings.)

Double the amount of water suggested in directions.

Salt to taste Splash of half and half Toppings: butter, shredded cheese (makes it nice and creamy) Add the

amount of grits for your family into slow cooker.

Double the amount of water in directions.

Add salt as directed.

Cover and cook on low at least 7 hours.

Check towards the end of cooking to see if you need to add a touch of water.

A9 August 08, 2018 AFTER SCHOOL SNACKS Salsa My picky eater loves this. ½ can petite diced tomatoes, well drained 1 can (8 3/4 oz.) whole kernel corn, well drained 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice 1 Tbsp. olive oil 1 tsp. chili pepper 1/4 tsp. salt Mix all ingredients in medium bowl. Cover.

Refrigerate at least 30 minutes or until ready to serve. Serve with tortilla chips.

EG’S Tater Tots Bake frozen tater tots. ½ cup chili (I reheat leftover homemade chili or you can use a can of Hormel.) ½ cup shredded mild cheddar cheese Hot sauce *Cook tater tots according to package. I cook mine a few minutes longer, so they are a little crunchy. This keeps them from becoming too soggy after adding toppings.

Put tater tots in a bowl and top with chili and cheese. Add hot sauce (optional). *For a snack, I take the EG’s Tater Tots and substitute the tater tots with corn chips.

Fruit Kabobs Place slices of banana, strawberries and grapes on tooth picks or wooden skewers.

AJ’s Nacho Cheese Ansley places about 8 Tostito chips on a plate; add shredded cheese and microwave for 30 seconds.

To make with meat: Spoonful of ground venison cooked with taco seasoning Tostito scoops Cheese Sour cream Salsa Preheat oven to 350. On a baking sheet, spoon seasoned meat into the Tostito’s.

Top with cheese.

Bake 10 minutes or until cheeses is melted. Serve with sour cream and salsa.

EG’s Buffalo Chicken Dip 2 cups shredded cooked chicken 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened ½ cup Sweet Bay Ray Buffalo Sauce ½ cup ranch dressing Preheat oven to 350.

Combine all ingredients and spoon into shallow 1-quart baking dish.

Bake 20 minutes or until mixture is heated through and bubbling on the edges.

Serve with chips of choice.

Quick Snacks Edamame steamed in microwave with a little sea salt added.

Sliced apples served with peanut butter.

DINNER Cube Steak 2 - 3 eggs All-purpose flour Creole seasoning Dale sauce White onion Bell pepper Wax paper Oil Cube steak (venison or beef) For venison set in cold fresh water every 30 minutes for 3 cycles.

Mix egg and dale sauce together in one bowl.

Mix flour and creole seasonings in one bowl.

Dip cube steak in egg and then in flour (repeat and double breading).

Place a layer of cube steak in the Pyrex dish; place wax paper down, and then add the rest of the cube steak on top.

Place in the refrigerator for about an hour. On medium heat, add oil to a skillet and sauté slices of onion and bell pepper.

Discard onion and bell pepper. Cook cube steak a bout 3 minutes on each side. Serve.

See Recipes, page A12

pelika O Observer

A10 August 08, 2018

Community Calendar: Events around town

Ongoing: • Village Friends/Village Values is a nonprofit organization that supports seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older. For info or to schedule a presentation to your group, call 334209-4641. For the website, Google “village friends village values.”

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

Mondays: • “Gimme A Break” Support Group for parents whose children have autism will be held from 9-11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika.

This is a monthly event on the first Monday of each month for parents to connect with each other.

• The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika.

• The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School band room. Every-

one is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike.

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

• The Lee County Voters League meets the first Monday of every month at St. James Missionary Baptist Church, located at 1335 Auburn St. in Opelika.

• The Touched by Suicide Support Group meets the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information, contact Deborah Owen, EAMC’s director of Psychiatric Services at 334-528-4197 or deborahowen@eamc.org.

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

• T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support group, meets every Monday night from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika. For more info contact Mary Johnson, 749-1584.

• The Lee County Commission meets the second and last Mondays of each month at the courthouse beginning at 5 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesdays: • Ballroom Dance Classes at the Opelika Sportsplex from 7-8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info call Diane at 749-6320.

• A monthly educational program on topics for autism parents, caregivers and teachers will be held on the second Tuesday of each month at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Ave., Opelika from 6-7:30 p.m. Childcare is provided, but reservations need to be made by contacting Maria Gutierrez at mariag@ leecountyautism.com to make sure there are enough

Peace,

District 83 Democratic candidate Jeremy Gray was one of the speakers at the event.

“It went really well,” Gray said. “About 25-30 people came out to the event.”

“I encouraged all the youth to look beyond their situation and dream big. I feel when the youth have confidence they can achieve great things and go to unseen heights. Those youth become our future leaders and they fight to prove wrong the stigma plaguing broken communities by being the example,” Gray said.

He asked them, “if you are not too young to die then why should you be too young to live?”

The Opelika Fire Department was on scene and showed off their equipment to the children. Gray, GibsonPitts, Pastor Anne Gray and Joseph Murray from Way 2 Serve Ministries all spoke during the afternoon, reiterating the need for community support and mentoring.

Citizens were also given the opportunity to voice their concerns.

The event concluded with lunch and a school supply giveaway.

from A1 Walk that took place on Samford Court. Getting neighborhood people involved in taking a stand against violence is what it will take to begin tackling crime in our community,” GibsonPitts said.

“We all have something to contribute towards deterring crime and I’m elated that Pastor Caroline Gray, along with many other residents on Samford, have made it a top priority.”

volunteers.

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

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

• Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard. The event is free and open to the public.

Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6–8 p.m.

8685 AL Highway 51.

• A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone dealing with the pain of loss and feeling the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved.

The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School. For more information contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-518-9122.

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

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

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

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

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

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

• TNT – Teens N Transition is a monthly program for teens and young adults ages 14 and up. The group uses this time to learn social skills as well as connect with others on the autism spectrum. They have enjoyed cooking, bowling, laser tag, movies and game nights. This event is held the third Thursday of each month. Visit leecountyautism.com for more information.

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

• The Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group meets at the Health Resource Center at 6 p.m. the first Thursday of each month.

• T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends. Call 334-528-1076 for more information.

• 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.

• Auburn/Opelika MOPS & MOMS next Summer Play Dates • August 30: Meet us at George’s Farmers Market for a fun day on the farm.

• The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art in Smiths Station is now offering summer studio art classes. The weekly classes are open to

all skill levels, and cost of registration covers the cost of art supplies. For more information, call 334-4802008.

• The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art holds evening and after-school studio art classes year-round. Open to all skill levels, art supplies are included with the cost of registration. Call 334480-2008.

Early enrollment for after-school art classes taught

by Michele and Sarah West of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art are now open for the 2018-19 school year.

The course is available and open to all skill levels, and art supplies are provided.

For more information, call 334-480-2008.

• Aug. 17-19, 23-26 ACCT’s production of “Silent Sky” at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center in Auburn. Visit www.AuburnACT.org or cal 334-332-0881 for more information.

• Aug. 19 - “Economic Opportunities in a Changing Climate,” will be presented Aug. 19 from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. in room 109 of the CASIC Building, 559 Devall Dr. in Auburn. The forum will be free, factual, nonpolitical and nonpartisan. All voters, candidates and office holders at all levels are invited. A parking permit is not required.

Four members of the faculty of Auburn University will provide presentations and will answer questions.

The event will be moderated by Mike Kensler, Director, Office of Sustainability at AU. The presentations and all-volunteer faculty are: - “Four Simple Questions to Understand What’s Happening in the Atmosphere”, by Dr. Martin Medina-Elizalde, Associate Professor, Geosciences - “Climate Impacts of Our Urbanizing Community and What We Can Do About It”, Dr. Chandana Mitra, Associate Professor, Geosciences - “Local Farmers Benefit

by Understanding Climate Science”, Dr. Brenda Ortiz, Associate Professor and Extension Specialist (Precision Ag), Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences - “Renewable Energy in Alabama: Resources and Opportunities”, Dr. Sushil Bhavnani, Professor, Mechanical Engineering Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.

Photos special to the Opelika Observer

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A12 August 08, 2018

DESSERTS

CROCK POT SUNDAYS Baked Potatoes 6 – 8 potatoes Butter Sea salt Tin foil Optional Toppings: Sour cream Shredded cheese Creole seasoning Salt and pepper Barbecue chicken or pork Wash potatoes.

Use fork to poke holes or break skin of potatoes. Cover pota-

toes with butter and sea salt.

Wrap in tin foil; place into crock pot, cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 (Never open the lid of a crock pot until the cooking time is finished).

Mix the creole seasoning with the sour cream and add it to potatoes or sprinkle seasoning on top.

Crock Pot Creamy Chicken Tacos 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts 1 can Rotel tomatoes 4 oz. (half of pkg.) cream cheese Tortilla shells Rinse off chicken.

Place chicken into the crock pot. Add Rotel tomatoes on top.

Cook 6-8 hours depending on thickness of chicken. Thirty minutes before it is done open the lid and

use forks to shred the chicken. The chicken should shred easily at this point.

Then add cream cheese. Don’t stir cheese into the chicken at this point, just leave it for the remainder of the 30 minutes. When final timer goes off, stir softened cream cheese and chicken together.

Serve the creamy chicken in a soft taco shell and enjoy.

Grammi’s Fig Bars These are great for breakfast, snacks or dessert made with fresh or dried figs.

Crust: ½ cup butter or margarine, softened ¼ cup granulated sugar ¼ tsp. vanilla 1 cup all-purpose flour Filling: ¼ cup granulated sugar ¾ cup fresh figs chopped (sliced) or 9 oz. dried Mission figs, chopped (1 cup) ¾ cup boiling water for fresh figs or 1 cup boiling water for dried figs Topping: ¼ cup all-purpose flour ¼ cup packed brown sugar 3 Tbsp. cold butter (do not use margarine) ¼ cup quick-cooking oats ¼ cup chopped walnuts Heat oven to 350.

Spray 9-inch square pan with cooking spray.

For crust, beat butter, sugar and vanilla with

electric mixer on medium speed until blended.

On low speed, beat in 1 cup flour until soft dough forms. Press dough in bottom of pan.

Bake 10 to 15 minutes or until center is set.

Meanwhile, in 2-quart saucepan, cook filling ingredients over medium-high heat 5 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until figs are tender and most of liquid is absorbed. Spread over crust.

In small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar and butter, using pastry blender or fork, until crumbly. Stir in oats and walnuts. Sprinkle over filling.

Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until edges are bubbly and topping is light golden brown. Cool completely. Cut into bars. Make a big batch and refrigerate. Reheat for 12 seconds.

Cake Pops Good for afterschool snacks or dessert.

1 box yellow cake mix (nonmoist) ½ cup vanilla or cream cheese frosting Two 12 oz. pkg. milk chocolate chips Confetti sprinkles Paper straws or lollipop sticks Prepare and bake cake as directed on box. Let cool completely.

Crumble cake into a large bowl, add frosting and mix thoroughly.

The children and I use our hands; it’s more fun that way.

Roll mixture into 1-inch balls.

Place a paper straw or lollipop stick in the top of each cake ball. Chill in the refrigerator for approximately 1 hour (or freezer for 30 minutes).

Melt chocolate chips as directed on package. Hold cake ball by stick and place into chocolate. Use a fork to completely coat outside and help to lift it out of the chocolate.

Place on wax paper and sprinkle with confetti sprinkles.

Place in the refrigerator or freezer.

I use the confetti to camouflage the imperfections. Making it with TLC is always the best.

APPETIZERS Crock Pot Chicken and Dumplings 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves 2 Tbsp. butter 2 (10.75 oz.) cans condensed cream of chicken soup ½ onion, chopped in chunks (optional) 2 (10 oz.) pkg. refrigerated biscuit dough, torn into pieces

Salt and pepper to taste Place chicken, butter, soup and onion in a crock pot and fill with enough water to cover.

Cover, and cook for 5 to 6 hours on high. About 30 minutes before serving, add torn biscuit dough. Cook until dough is no longer raw in center.

Cheese Dip 15 oz. can Ricco’s Gourmet Nacho Cheddar Cheese Sauce 1 – 2 lb. ground venison, beef or turkey 2 packs Taco Bell Taco Seasoning 16 oz. can Rotel 2 Tbsp. diced jalapenos 1 family size bag Tostito chips Crock pot liner Put a crock pot liner in the crock pot and turn it on to high. Add the

Ricco’s Gourmet Nacho Cheddar Cheese Sauce.

While the cheese is heating, brown your meat of choice, then add the taco seasoning (I double the seasoning to one pound of meat.)

Add the meat to the cheese and all other ingredients. It is best to stir thoroughly after adding each ingredient.

Cook on high for one hour and low until hot all the way through.

Chicken Tortilla Bites 16 oz. can of chicken or rotisserie chicken 1 ½ Tbsp. mayonnaise 1 tsp. mustard Dill or sweet relish to taste Black pepper to taste Tortilla shells Mix filling ingredients together. Spoon onto tortilla shells,

roll up and use a toothpick to secure.

Refrigerate for 30 minutes, and then cut into ¼ inch slices.

Note: This is a base recipe. Depending on the occasion, I will add cranberries and nuts or instead of mayonnaise substitute 1 Tbsp. southwestern dressing

Christian’s Deer Roll Ups Back strap Cream cheese Jalapenos sliced from a jar Bacon (thin cheap bacon) Tooth picks Pyrex dish Slice back strap about the width and length of two fingers. Add ¼ tsp. of cream cheese. Top with jalapeno. Roll up and wrap bacon around and over it.

Pierce tooth pick through the roll – up.

Grill approximately 3 minutes, rotating sides or until bacon is cooked.

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

Turn to B2 for back to school photos

Superintendent of OCS welcomes students to the 2018-19 school year

By Michelle Key Editor The school buses rolled out bright and early Monday morning to make the rounds, gathering hundreds of school children for the first day of school for Opelika City Schools.

OCS Superintendent Dr. Mark Neighbors was on the campus of Northside Intermediate School welcoming students.

“Our administrators made the rounds this morning to all of our schools and it was an exceptionally smooth day,

Neighbors said.

“Everything was orderly, organized, and very positive.

I appreciate our staff for their hard work in making this a great day for the children of our community.”

OCS consists of three primary schools: Carver, Jeter and Southview; three intermediate schools: Morris Avenue, Northside and West Forest; Opelika Middle and Opelika High.

Combined, these eight schools serve more than 4,000 students on a daily basis.

Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Opelika represents Alabama in Dixie Boys World Series; fall to Florida 10-7 in quarter-final round

Beulah’s Cody Flournoy aims for Bobcats playoff run in 2018

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor The Opelika Dixie Boys finished fourth in the Dixie Boys World series Monday night.

Representing as Team

Alabama, Opelika dropped a 10-7 contest to the West Seminole from Florida Monday night to finish with a 2-2 tournament record.

Trailing by three runs in the top of the 7th inning, Opelika managed to load the

bases v. West Seminole, but could not capitalize, as the final batter popped out to left field for the game-ending out.

“Our boys should hold See Baseball, page B9

"Playoffs or bust" is the mantra of the Beulah High School Bobcats heading into the 2018 football season.

Coming off a 3-7 finish last year, second-year Coach Cody Flournoy said he and his players are working toward obtaining the program's first playoff berth in 11 seasons.

Following is a unit-by-unit breakdown of the Bobcats, with information on key departures, returnees and newcomers to watch during the

Flournoy coming season.

Offense Prolific receiver Tez Turner and last season's starting quarterback Nolan Earle are gone, but Flournoy said the offense should still be able generate an abundance of points and yards.

"I believe our offense is set to execute better because we're going into our

second year of this system with Matt (Johnson). It's that Auburn, Gus Malzahn-type offense that's fast paced going to get a lot of snaps and get the ball to our playmakers out in space," Flournoy said. "This system sets up well for our group, particularly with a smaller but faster offensive line. Speed sweeps, option read and RPOs (run-pass option plays) will be a big part of our playbook."

Lonzie Portis is slated to take over at quarterback following a stand-out See Beulah, page B6

B2 August 08, 2018

pelika O Observer

Students of Opelika City Schools head Third annual ‘EXTERRA Auburn’ back to school for the 2018-19 term to be held Aug. 18 at Chewacla

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

The third annual “EXTERRA Auburn” bike race will be held Aug. 18 at Chewacla State Park in Auburn.

According to event organizers from TRI Auburn, “athletes around the world will race in off-road triathlons in some of the most spectacular environments on the planet.” The swimming portion of the competition will be held in the park’s 26acre lake, and biking/running portion along 25-plus miles of mountain bike trails.

Sanctioned by USA Triathlon, all event competitors are required to possess a USAT license.

Those interested can purchase an annual

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

license for $50 at www.teamusa.org, or a one-day pass for $15 during registration on the day of the triathlon.

Registration forms are available online.

Following is a list of options available: Challenged athletes - $85 plus $5.10 sign-up fee Individual - $85 plus $5.10 sign-up fee Two-person relay team - $150 plus $9 sign-up fee Three-person relay

team - $215 plus $12.90 sign-up fee.

First, second and third-place awards will be given to the winners of each age group. Each participant is guaranteed to receive a T-shirt, swim cap and gift bag. All finishers will receive a finisher’s medal.

For more information, visit www. triauburnal.com or call 334-821-0555.

The park is located at 124 Shell Toomer Parkway in Auburn.

H O S T E D B Y C O R N E R S T O N E F A M I L Y C H I R O P R A C T I C

8th Annual

BACK2 SCHOOL BASH Friday, August 17 4-7pm airport plaza GAMES * LIVE MUSIC * FOOD * GIVE-AWAYS

BENEFITING...

pelika O Observer Second Saturday in August at Pioneer Park

B3

August 08, 2018

Special to the Opelika Observer The Lee County Historical Society will host its regular Second Saturday activities on Aug. 11 at Pioneer Park in Loachapoka. Before the weather gets too hot, meet at 9 a.m. for a “garden walk‘n talk” with Dr. Charles Mitchell. The crops garden, with its collection of field crops from the 19th century, will be featured.

Learn about pioneer life on a rural, East Alabama farmstead in the 1800s and the crops that these early settlers grew just to survive. After the walk, join Tia Gonzales at 10 a.m. and learn to make herb instilled vinegars.

Herbs from Pioneer Park’s gardens will be

Melanoma,

from A5

to pitch in funding for research.

In March, Sen. Larry Stutts from Alabama’s Senate District 6 proposed a $100,000 amendment to the Senate Finance and Taxation Education Committee for its FY2019 budget for research funding to determine the cluster’s cause, but the motion failed.

With their recent action, the university has agreed to fund up to $50,000 for the

used for this project.

Gonzales is the Coordinator for Auburn University’s Herb and Medicinal Garden.

If you prefer indoor activities, you can learn to weave native American “honeysuckle” baskets from an expert. At 9 a.m., Margaret Baggett will teach a class in basket weaving in the Trade Center Museum.

Baggett is the Traditional Arts Demonstrator for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians and has demonstrated her craft throughout the South. The class will last until noon in order for all participants to complete a small basket. For those who need extra time, Baggett will continue instruction following lunch. If interest is indicated, additional classes will first leg of research, which will be paired with the $22,000 that the Facebook group has raised on its own.

Donations will continue to be accepted through the group’s Facebook page as the second and third phases - genetic and environmental tests are expected to cost a combined $150,000.

For more information or updates on this developing story, like and follow the Auburn Ocular Melanoma Facebook page.

Below is the full statement from the university:

be arranged in the fall for those wishing to make more detailed Creek utility baskets.

On the second Saturday of each month, Pioneer Park is free and open to the public.

Blacksmiths will be working at the forge, spinners and weavers are upstairs in the Trade Center Museum and someone is always cooking up a meal in the Cook House or outdoors. Stay for lunch and enjoy dishes that our pioneer forebearers would have prepared. The Whistle Stop Players gather to play dulcimers at 1 p.m. There’s an informal group that meets in the morning to work on their baskets, “The Basket Cases.”

What a great opportunity for Lee County Historical Society members and visitors “Since we first became aware that several members of the Auburn family were diagnosed with ocular melanoma, we have had collaborative communications with experts on melanoma from around the nation, and we have worked closely with state public health officials. These communications are ongoing as the experts assist in determining what next steps should be taken in the best interests of the patients who are battling this cancer.

We have also provided informational resources and updates to the campus com-

Think you know sports?

Take the quiz below and put your knowledge to the test!

Sports Quiz

By Chris Richcreek 1. Baltimore’s Trey Mancini tied a record in 2016-17 by hitting eight home runs in his first 17 major-league games.

Who else did it?

2. Pitchers Octavio Dotel and Edwin Jackson hold the major-league mark for playing for the most teams. How many?

3. The Pittsburgh Steelers selected four future Pro Football Hall of Fame players in the 1974 NFL Draft. Name three of them.

4. In 2017, Duke tied the record for most times being ranked No. 1 in The Associated Press men’s basketball preseason poll. Who else has held the ranking nine times?

5. The Nashville Predators set a franchise record in the 2017-18 season for most victories for a season (53). In what season was the previous record?

6. Who was the last American woman before Shalane Flanagan in 2017 to win the New York City Marathon?

7. The 2018 Masters featured the fourth consecutive

Special to the Opelika Observer Learn to make Creek Indian baskets from an expert at the Second Saturday at Pioneer Park in Loachapoka Aug. 11. to enjoy Pioneer Park.

If you have a skill to demonstrate or just would like to help out on Second Saturdays, just show up and join the fun.

Dress up in 19th Century attire if you munity and beyond so those concerned have the latest information that is available.

In addition, we are engaging geospatial research experts to gather and analyze data that, among other things, will explore potential links to ocular melanoma in this area, none of which have been definitively found in any previous studies for this very rare cancer. This could help indicate the right and additional paths for future research in finding causes and treatments in the hope of developing a cure.”

wish. Second Saturdays are like a miniPioneer Day throughout the year.

Pioneer Park is sponsored by the Lee County Historical Society, an allvolunteer, non-profit

organization founded in 1968 and dedicated to the preservation and presentation of local history.

Visit www.leecountyhistoricalsociety. org for more information.

Free custard from BurgerFi on Aug. 8

Special to the Opelika Observer In honor of National Frozen Custard Day Aug. 8, BurgerFi locations nationwide will be offering a free small custard with when you mention the offer at the counter (no purchase necessary). The Opelika store is located at 2145 Interstate Dr. and is open from 11 a.m.

- 10 p.m.

Academy Sports + Outdoors honors local “Tri for Kids” volunteer Stacy Jackson

golfer to win his first major at that event. Name three of the four.

Answers 1. Toronto’s Carlos Delgado (1993-94) and Colorado’s Trevor Story (2016).

2. Each has pitched for 13 teams.

3. Lynn Swann, Jack Lambert, John Stallworth and Mike Webster.

4. North Carolina.

5. The Predators won 51 games in the 2006-07 season.

6. Miki Gorman, in 1977.

7. Jordan Spieth, Danny Willett, Sergio Garcia and Patrick Reed.

(c) 2018 King Features Syndicate, Inc.

Special to the Opelika Observer Academy Sports + Outdoors in Auburn is teamed up with the American Cancer Society to surprise the Jackson family with a $500 shopping spree. Stacy Jackson has helped with the Sportsplex Kids Triathlon since the event started six years ago. She is a passionate volunteer because her husband, Chris, is a cancer survivor. Their three children have also participated in the triathlon for many years. The family who were surprised with the shopping spree were allowed to purchase anything they wanted within the store. Academy Sports + Outdoors is a presenting sponsor of the American Cancer Society’s Sportsplex Kids Triathlon which was held Saturday at the Opelika Sportsplex.

pelika O Observer

B4 August 08, 2018

ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Commercial Door Products, Inc., has completed the Contract Improvements of the Grand National Hotel Addition, Opelika, Alabama - Bid Pkg #6 - Bid Item 6 for the Teachers’ Retirement System of Alabama and the Employee’s Retirement System of Alabama and have made request for final settlement of said Contract.

All persons having any claim for labor, materials or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood, Inc. (Architect) Commercial Door Products, Inc. P.O. 210186 Montgomery, AL 36121 Legal Notice to run 7/18/18, 7/25/18, 8/1/18 & 8/8/18

NOTICE TO CREDITORS PROBATE COURT, LEE COUNTY, CASE NO.: 2018-B-51 ESTATE OF MILTON M. HAMM, SR., Deceased NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of MILTON M. HAMM, SR., deceased having been granted to Katrina H. Flournoy, on the 9th day of July, 2018, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

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

Katrina H. Flournoy Legal Run 7/25, 8/1 & 8/8/18

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES EDWARD SHAW, deceased IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NUMBER: 2018B-091 LETTERS TESTAMENTARY The Will of JAMES EDWARD SHAW, deceased, having been duly admitted to probate and record in said County, Letters Testamentary are hereby granted to Charles Shaw, who has duly qualified as Executor, named in said Will, and who has complied with the requisites of the law, and is authorized to take upon herself the execution of said Will.

Witness my hand, and seal this the 17th day of July, 2018 /s/ Bill English, Probate Judge STATE OF ALABAMA, LEE COUNTY I, Bill English, Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true, correct and complete copy of the Letters Testamentary issued to Charles Shaw, as Executor of the Estate of JAMES EDWARD SHAW, deceased, as the same appears of record in my office and remains in full force and effect.

This the 17th day of July, 2018.

BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 8/1/18, 8/8/18 & 8/15/18

STATE OF ALABAMA LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT CASE #2017-B-233 ESTATE OF MICHAEL T. FRANDSEN, DECEASED NOTICE OF HEARING ON REPORT OF INSOLVENCY The Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate of the Probate Court of Lee County has set September 5, 2018 at 9:00 A.M. as the proper time for a hearing on the correctness of the

Report of Insolvency of the Estate of Michael T. Frandsen, deceased, filed

by Angela Jana Rainey, Personal Representative of the Estate of Michael T. Frandsen, deceased. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate or who otherwise have an internet in the estate, and wish to make an issue as to the correctness of the Report of Insolvency should do so in writing to the Probate Court at or prior to such hearing or the same will be barred.

Jeffery A. Hilyer, Attorney for the Estate Legal Run 8/1/18, 8/8/18 & 8/15/18

ORDINANCE NO. 012-18 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE TEXT OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA SPECIFICALLY TO AMEND SECTION 8.13 THEREOF BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. Amendment.

That Section 8.13 of Ordinance 124-91 entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika, Alabama”, adopted on September 17, 1991, as amended, is further amended by the deletion of the entire language of said section and substitution of the following, so that hereinafter said Section 8.13 shall read, in its entirety, as follows: Sec. 8.13 TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS The regulations as contained in this section shall be applied to developments involving townhouses. A development plan, satisfying all the requirements of this ordinance shall be submitted to, reviewed by, and approved by the Planning Commission. Information required by Section 8.16.

A. Site Plan and Design Criteria, General.

It is the intent of this ordinance that townhouses, in areas where they are or may be permitted.

1. May be appropriately intermingled with other types of housing; and 2. Shall not form, long unbroken lines of row housing, but shall be staggered, singularly or in pairs, not less than three feet (3’) or more than twelve feet (12’); and 3. Shall constitute groupings making efficient, economical, comfortable and convenient use of land and open space and serving the public purposes of zoning by means alternative to conventional arrangements of yards and building areas.

4. Shall provide adequate common open space free of buildings, streets, driveways, or parking areas. The common open space shall be so designed and located that it is easily accessible to all occupants of the project and is usable for open space and recreational purposes.

Moreover, the Planning Commission may require that an association of owners or tenants be created for the purpose of maintaining such open spaces.

It shall be created in such a manner that owners of property shall automatically be members and shall be subject to assessments levied to maintain said open space for the purposes intended for as long as the existence of the development.

B. Site Plan and Design Criteria, Details. In line with the general considerations above the following criteria shall be met.

1. Maximum Units. Not more than twelve (12) contiguous townhouses, nor fewer than two (2) shall be built in a row with approximately the same front line; however in no event shall the number of units exceed the density allowed in the zone where the townhouse unit is to be constructed.

2. Minimum Width. The

LEGALS

area on which any townhouse unit is to be constructed shall be twenty (20) feet.

3. Separation Requirements-interior or Project.

No portion of townhouse or accessory structure in or related to one (1) group of contiguous townhouses shall be closer than twenty (20) feet to any portion of a townhouse or accessory structure related to another group.

4. Yards. Front, sides and rear yards for the overall development or site shall not be less than those permitted on zoning lots for the district; Each townhouse shall have one (1) abutting yard, which may be in the required front, side or rear yard equal to the width of the townhouse and have an area not less than fifty (50%) percent of the first floor areas of the townhouse, private and reasonable secluded from view or from neighboring property.

Such yard shall not be used for any accessory building.

5. Access Strip. Each group of contiguous townhomes shall have a five (5) foot access easement adjacent to the private yard that connects to the public or private street providing vehicular access.

6. Group Parking Facilities. a) Insofar as practicable, off-street parking shall be grouped in bays, in the interior of the project areas.

No off-street parking space shall be more than one hundred (100) feet by the most direct pedestrian route, from a door of the dwelling unit it is intended to serve. Two (2) parking spaces shall be provided for each dwelling unit. Parking bays shall be separated from street paving by curb or by curbed island, in either case the curb shall be a minimum of four (4) inches in width; except in driveway turnouts that will be provided between street paving and parking bays. This arrangement shall be constructed to prevent backing out into street from parking area. b) Townhouse units that front open space, have individual garages/carports or are accessed by a rear alley may utilize alternative parking configurations as approved by the City of Opelika.

7. Density. The density of the development shall coincide with the “dwelling units per acre” requirement as specified in Section 7.3A. according to the appropriate zoning district.

8. Maintenance. Provision for the maintenance of all common parking, open access and other spaces and areas shall be included in the plat restrictions of the property. Individual utility connections shall be provided to each townhouse dwelling unit.

9. Fire Lanes. All townhouse buildings and developments shall comply with all building, fire, and life safety codes adopted by the City of Opelika at the time of permitting for that building and as administered by the building official or fire chief, or their respective representatives.

This shall include among other criteria any requirements prescribed for fire lanes, fire-rated construction or building separation.

10. Design. Townhouse developments should reflect the character and complement of the surrounding housing. a) Townhouse developments and buildings shall address the street when placed on local streets or existing residential neighborhoods unless prohibited by the lot configuration, topographic issues or other design issues. i. This shall include having the front façade of the building face the street. ii. Any buildings located behind the front row of buildings may have different orientations. iii. Corner lots are only required to address one street side, although blank or uninterrupted walls are discouraged and should

be screened or landscaped when possible. b) Townhouse developments located on arterial or collector streets may be oriented away from the street. c) Any fences or walls constructed abutting a public street shall be consistent in material, height and depth along a group of contiguous townhouse units.

C. Design Criteria of Townhouses, Individual Owners. In districts where townhouse buildings are permitted and townhouses are to be constructed for sale, each on its own lot, to individual owners: 1. Minimum Requirements. Townhouse developments shall be subject to the minimum requirements specified in the subdivision regulation; such townhouses shall be constructed in accordance with applicable provisions of all codes of the City with no more than twelve (12) units per building, nor fewer than two (2) in a row with approximately the same front line.

2. Minimum Width. The width of the lot on which any single townhouse is to be constructed shall be twenty (20) feet or greater at front lot line.

3. Minimum Lot Area.

The minimum lot area per townhouse shall be no less than eighteen hundred (1,800) square feet. The minimum areas required shall be exclusive of any paved common parking areas or driveways. The minimum lot area may include any required buffers, individual parking, garages or carports, or rear access alleyways.

4. Separation Requirements-interior of Projects.

No portion of a townhouse or accessory structure shall be closer than twenty (20) feet to any portion of a townhouse or accessory structure related to another group.

5. Yards. a. On lots containing townhouse dwellings, fronting on a public way, there shall be a minimum front yard as required in each zone. b. A ten (10) feet side yard shall be required at the end of each townhouse building for a total of twenty (20) feet between structures.

Each townhouse shall have one abutting yard, which may be within the required front, side or rear yard, equal in width of the townhouse and have an area not less than fifty percent (50%) of the first floor area of the townhouse, private and reasonable secluded from view from streets or from neighboring property. Such yards shall not be used for any accessory buildings. c. On corner lots facing or siding on a public street, the side yard minimum shall conform to side yard on street yard minimum requirements, satisfying the zone in which development is located.

6. Access. A townhouse development shall front on a public right-of-way.

However, individual townhouse lots need not abut public streets. When such lots do not abut public streets, they shall abut private roads, parking lots or access easements. a. Any private road, parking aisle or access easement used for frontage requirements shall meet the minimum standards as designated in the City of Opelika Code of Ordinances, Chapter 26, Article V, Section 26-168. b. The City Engineer shall review and approve proposed access specifications to ensure that the proposed road way is adequate to handle the expected usage. c. The length and extent of private roads, driveways and parking aisles providing access to lots shall be minimized, and public streets shall be provided in larger subdivisions when substantial distances are involved. Individual lots shall be no more than 1,000 feet from a public street as measured along the private

access road. The Planning Commission may waive this distance requirements if it is determined that the design will allow a better internal street network or in cases where topography limits connectivity. d. Any private road, parking aisle or access aisle used for frontage requirements or access shall be maintained in good repair and free of defect or deformations so that passability shall not be impaired. e. The City Engineer or other authorized representative shall be authorized to inspect private roads that provide a means of ingress or egress and may cause corrective action or abatement as described in City of Opelika Code of Ordinances, Chapter 26, Article V. Section 2. Repeal of Conflicting Ordinances. Any ordinance or parts thereof in conflict with provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed.

Section 3. Effective Date.

This Ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption, approval and publication as required by law.

Section 4. Publication. The City Clerk is directed to publish a synopsis of this Ordinance in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama pursuant to Section 11-45-8(b)(2), Code of Alabama, (1975) as amended.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 7th day of August, 2018. /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 8th day of August, 2018. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 8th day of August, 2018. /s/ Gary Fuller - MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK Legal Run 08/08/2018

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF RAYMOND ROBINSON, SR., Deceased PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO.: 2018-B-068 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of RAYMOND ROBINSON, SR., deceased having been granted to Raymond Robinson, Jr., on the 2nd day of August, 2018, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

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

Raymond Robinson, Jr., Legal Run 8/8/18, 8/15/18 & 8/22/18

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO.: 2018-B-103 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF VIRGIL SANDERS, DECEASED/ NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of VIRGIL SANDERS, deceased having been granted to BETTY JOYNER on the 31st day of July, 2018, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

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

BETTY JOYNER Legal Run 8/8/18, 8/15/18 & 8/22/18

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SUSAN S. HOPSON, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 1st day of August, 2018, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

CLIFTON HOPSON, JR. Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 8/8/18, 8/15/18, & 8/22/18

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE WHEREAS, default has been made in the terms of the mortgage executed on the 1st day of March, 2014,

by Leigh Jones, as Mortgagor in favor of Hardwood, LLC, as Mortgagee, as recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, in Mortgage Book No. 2387, at Page No. 186, and said default continuing, the mortgagee, under power of sale contained in said mortgage will sell at auction for cash to the highest bidder on the steps of the Lee County Courthouse in Opelika, Alabama, on the Friday, the 7th day of September, 2018, during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate embraced in said mortgage, situated in Lee County, Alabama, to-wit: Lot 46, Beauregard Estates, Phase II, as shown on the recorded Plat 23112, located in Section 6, Township 17 North, Range 27 East. More commonly known as 107 Lee Road 2101, Opelika, AL 36804.

Said sale is made for the purpose of foreclosing of said mortgage debt, the costs and expenses of foreclosure, including a reasonable attorney’s fee.

Notice to: Leigh Jones 107 Lee Road 2101, Opelika, AL 36804 Mortgagee reserves the right to bid on the subject property. Said mortgage is a first mortgage and is not junior to another mortgage of record. Said sale is also subject to unpaid taxes or assessments whether of record or not.

Hardwood, LLC Mortgagee P.O. Box 2262 Opelika, AL 36803 Legal Notice Run 8/8, 8/15 & 8/22/2018

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA. ESTATE NO. 20180B-137 IN RE: ESTATE OF IVIE LEE MESSER, DECEASED PETITION TO PROBATE WILL NOTICE Letters of Testamentary for the Estate of IVIE LEE MESSER, deceased, having been granted to the RICHARD E. MESSER, on the 30th day of July, 2018, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. s/Raymond L. Jackson, Jr./ Raymond L. Jackson, Jr. Attorney for RICHARD E. MESSER Executor of the Estate of IVIE LEE MESSER Legal Run 08/08/18, 08/15/18 & 08/22/2018

pelika O Observer Range,

from A1 the perfect location," Edwards said. "There's really nothing like this in the area ... and the concept we're bringing to town is unlike anything around here within reasonable driving distance."

Edwards said the idea of opening an indoor shooting range has been his goal since opening "The Firing Pin" in November 2011.

Describing the range as an "extremely safe environment," Edwards said the range will be built with concrete-filled cement blocks, steel baffles and rubber backstop for extra insulation and protection.

Patrons will be able to secure a wide variety of firearm rentals for use on

the range, including pistols, rifles and even guns as powerful as a .50 caliber Browning machine gun.

"It's very rewarding to be able to provide something like this to the community.

I grew up with a passion for shooting, but nowhere to shoot, which I think is a big problem for a lot of guys today," Edwards said. "I'm happy to be able to provide a safe environment that is comfortable and safe for everyone to use."

Use of the range is $22/ hour for non-members, so Edwards encourages those interested to look into memberships for more costeffective options. Following are two membership packages currently available for purchase: "First 100" The cost for this package is $659 for one individual for the first year and a $539.40 membership

premium locked in for life, pending intermittent membership renewals. Perks of this package include features like extra guest passes, range bag, custom-made knife, early access to the facility before its January opening and more.

"Founding Fathers" The cost for this package is $3,500 for one individual for the first year a $3,000 membership premium locked in for life, pending intermittent membership renewals. Perks of this package include features like unlimited range use during business hours, private range access one hour before or after business hours, own private locker, unlimited machine gun and firearm rental, access to lounge, apparel and more.

For more information or updates, visit www.firingpinshootingsports.com or call 334-737-6444.

B5 August 08, 2018

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

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Contact The Brown Agency at 334-745-3584 or visit thebrownagency. com/rentals/listing/127 Affordable office space Located in downtown Opelika for low traffic business. Utilities included. Two small offices for $395.00 each and 1 large office for $525.00.

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Two bedrm/2 bath country home House has large eat in kitchen, living room and spacious laundry room.

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pelika O Observer

B6 August 08, 2018

Teams set to swarm to the “Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee” tomorrow

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor The Lee County Literacy Coalition’s 15th annual “Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee” will be held Aug. 9 from 5-8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Alumni Center.

Modeled to mimic the format of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, representatives from local businesses and organizations will compete in the local version of the event.

Serving as judges for this year’s event will be Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones, Kim Hudson of the

Beulah,

from B1 spring performance. Using his speed and agility, Flournoy said Portis's arm talent and blazingquick speed will cause concern for opposing defensive coordinators.

Last season's teamleading rusher and top college prospect Caden Dowdell returns, and along with Quinn Page, provide balance and extra options for Portis out of the backfield.

Dashawn Jones, a newcomer, looks to replace Turner on the outside. Dowdell and Page will see some time at receiver, and senior tight end Justin Hancock will line up in the slot, using his big frame and deceiving speed to cause matchup issues for opposing secondaries.

With an average of nearly 200 pounds, the offensive line is on the "smaller end" according to Flournoy, but a "perfectly designed group" for a spread offense.

Junior center Jake Buffington returns as the group's anchor.

Key guard Grant Webb returns, and others like Zack Smith and Trevor Mapp are expected to contribute in rotation at tackle.

Defense Several offensive players are expected to

Hudson Family Foundation and stand-up comic/columnist Jody Fuller. Auburn University announcer Rod Bramblett will serve as the chief word pronouncer.

Jim ‘N Nick’s will cater an open-barbecue bar, and door prizes will be given away throughout the event.

According to LCLC Director Stacie Money, the spelling bee is vitally important to furthering her organization’s mission of teaching adults to be proficient in mathematics, reading and writing in order to succeed in society.

“Our county curplay both ways for the Bobcats.

Utilizing a 3-4 base defense, Flournoy said Dowdell, Page, Hancock and K.C. Moore will be the four starting linebackers.

Kain Lathom and Isaiah Glidewell are expected to be key cogs on the line of scrimmage.

Last season's blue-chip safety Dylan Coleman returns, leading a solid secondary along with speedy corners Ty Williams and Quay Johnson.

Special Teams Following the departure of the versatile punter/kicker Robbie Speed, the Bobcats will be searching for answers at the kicking position.

Austin Billingsley, Jacob Burdette and Chance Franks will vie for the starting job in the early days of fall practice.

Glidewell booted a 70-plus yard punt during Beulah's spring game v. Valley, solidifying himself as the punter.

Turner's departure leaves holes in the Bobcats' kickoff and punt return units. Those will be filled in by committee throughout the season.

Season outlook A member of the AHSAA's 3A Region 3, Beulah will see an uptick in strength of competition from last season's region winner Montgomery Academy and newcomer schools like region St. James and the previously 4A classified

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rently has approximately 14,000 adults who struggle with literacy. With the funding from this event and other sources, we can continue to offer our services free to the community and expand our programming,” Money said.

“The Great GrownUp Spelling Bee is a fun way for businesses and organizations in our community to support our organization. It’s also a way for us to get the word out to people about what we do.”

Team slots are already filled, but audience tickets are still available at a cost of $40 each. For Dadeville Tigers.

With a full football year under his belt, Flournoy said he believes he is slowly but surely building a solid foundation for a program yearning for success.

"Those good programs that win year-in and year-out, there's a reason for that. It's not just one thing - it's a bunch of factors that contribute to a winning attitude, culture and program," Flournoy said. "We got some good things and some stuff that we need to work on, but we have a community and school that support us every Friday night."

The Bobcats' 10-game schedule is split evenly, with five home and five road contests. Below is Beulah's full schedule: Aug. 24 - @ Loachapoka Aug. 31 - v. Ellwood Christian Sept. 7 - v. Montgomery Academy Sept. 14 - v. Prattville Christian Academy Sept. 21 - @ Southside Oct. 5 - @ Bullock County Oct. 12 - v. St. James Oct. 19 - @ Dadeville Oct. 26 - v. Pike Road Schools Nov. 2 - @ McKenzie.

For more information or updates, like and follow the Beulah Football Facebook page. The school is located at 4848 Lee Road 270 in Valley.

more information, visit www.leecountyliteracy.org or call 334-705-0001.

The event venue is located at 317 S. College St. Pictured top right: Jody Fuller tries to fly in preparation of the event. Left to right: Rod Bramblett, Kim Hudson, Fuller, Sheriff Jay Jones and Pam Powers-Smith.

Bramblett will be the word pronouncer, Powers-Smith will be the emcee and Fuller, Hudson and Jones will be judging.

Bottom: The 2017 winners - Jaena Alabi and Greg Schmidt from the Auburn University Libraries.

Photos special to the Opelika Observer

Opelika coaching staff speaks to members of Kiwanis Club

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Head football Coach Erik Speakman and coaches from Opelika High School gave a rundown on the upcoming season. Pictured below club member Joe Wilson, defensive coordinator Coach Adam Massey, Head Coach Erik Speakman, and offensive coordinator Coach Jonathan Chandler.

Arbor Day Foundation offering 10 free trees for $10 donation Special to the Opelika Observer

Spruce up your landscape by joining the Arbor Day Foundation in August.

Everyone who joins the nonprofit Arbor Day Foundation with a $10 donation will receive 10 free Colorado blue spruce trees or 10 white flowering dogwood trees through the Foundation’s Trees for America

NOW HIRING DRIVERS

NEW PAY INCREASE

campaign.

The trees will be shipped postpaid between Oct. 15 and Dec. 10, depending on the right time for planting in each member’s area.

The 6-12 inch trees are guaranteed to grow or they will be replaced free of charge.

New members of the Arbor Day Foundation will also receive The Tree Book, which includes information

about tree planting and care, and a subscription to Arbor Day, the Foundation’s bimonthly publication.

To receive the free Colorado blue spruce trees, send a $10 membership contribution to: Ten Free Blue Spruces OR Ten Free Dogwood, Arbor Day Foundation, 100 Arbor Ave., Nebraska City, NE 68410, by Aug. 31 or join online at arborday.org/august.

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Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, August 08, 2018

Opelika’s Mallory Hagan prepares for November midterm elections

Inside the Statehouse

N

By Steve Flowers

ow that the dust has settled on the primaries, allow me to share with you some thoughts on the Alabama political stage.

There is an old saying that says the more things change, the more they stay the same.

This old adage is true in Alabama politics.

First of all, “All politics is local.” In the June 5 Primary, the turnout was about 25 percent on the average around the state.

However, the ultimate voter turnout was 27 percent due to local races.

Alabamians are more interested in who is sheriff and Probate Judge than who is Lt. Governor, or Attorney General.

Secretary of State, John Merrill, predicted a 27 percent turnout on June 5. Guess what, there was a 27 percent turnout. Almost 873,000 Alabamians voted. There were twice as many voters, 590,000, that chose the Republican ballot than the Democratic slate.

There were 283,000

Democratic voters.

What this tells me is that we are still a very red, Republican state.

We have 29 elected statewide officeholders in the state. All 29 are Republican.

When all the votes are counted in November, that 29-out-of-29 figure will still be more than likely the same in the Heart of Dixie. The Democrats have a good horse in Walt Maddox.

He may run close to Kay Ivey, but the odds favor an incumbent GOP governor who has done nothing wrong and sits in the Governor’s office in a robust economy. I would put the odds at 56-to-44 in Ivey’s favor.

The Legislature will remain about the same after the November General Election as we head into the next quadrennium. The Alabama House of Representatives will have an over 2-to-1 GOP majority. The numbers will be about what they are now, 72 Republicans and 33 Democrats.

The State Senate will more than likely have a 3-to-1 GOP edge. The

Hagan

members now are 26 Republicans and eight Democrats and one Independent.

The Democrats may very well pick up a Senate Seat in Northwest Alabama with Johnny Mack Morrow v. Larry Stutts, which will bring them to nine.

The Independent seat being held by Senator Harri Ann Smith in the Wiregrass is one of the most Republican in the state.

Smith is retiring. It will be taken by the very Republican and popular state representative, Donnie Chesteen.

Whoever made the decision to oust Harri Ann from the Republican Party six years ago made a very poor and ignorant decision. She continued to be elected as an Independent. Her popularity exudes my example of all politics is local and home folks know you best.

The GOP control of the Senate will probably be 26 to 9 or 27 to 8.

Speaking of control, See Flowers, page B9

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Unseating Republican incumbent Mike Rogers in the November midterm elections is the goal of Opelika native Mallory Hagan, the Democratic nominee for Alabama’s 3rd Congressional District.

Hagan defeated Dr. Adia Winfrey by a 30 percentage-point margin in the June 5 primaries, punching her ticket to a November tilt with Rogers, who has held the office since 2002.

Following is a brief background on Hagan and details of his first successful splash into politics.

Background An Opelika native, Hagan made a name for herself and her city when she was named Miss America in 2013, a journey that she said would prove invaluable to her future interest in politics.

Shortly after being named “Miss America,” Hagan said she was lobbying for restored funding for the country’s child

advocacy centers which had been slashed out of the 2014 budget.

“My time as Miss America showed me how powerful collective action can be. In 2013, I worked with the National Children’s Alliance (among other organizations) to lobby Congress on behalf of our kids,” Hagan said. “Ultimately, we were successful in restoring $18 million dollars. I have continued that work since then. I See Hagan, page B11

Alabama Afl-Cio backs Hagan for Congress Special to the Opelika Observer The Alabama AFL-CIO endorsed Mallory Hagan, Democratic candidate for Alabama's 3rd Congressional District last week.

Hagan’s strong advocacy work for working families and their children was key to securing this endorsement.

“Alabamians need Mallory Hagan fighting for

them in Washington,” said Bren Riley, president of the Alabama AFL-CIO. “She knows how important good-paying jobs are to people in her district and will stand up for folks who work every day to get ahead. That’s the spirit that made America and made Mallory Miss America. We are proud to endorse her candidacy and are behind her all the way.”

“I am honored to earn

the support of Alabama’s working families,” Hagan said. “The dedication of hardworking men and women to build better lives for their families and a better world for all of us inspires me every day. It is a privilege to be fighting alongside these Americans for things we all care about – our children’s future, affordable healthcare, and good-paying jobs in our See Endorsement page B9

pelika O Observer

B8 August 08, 2018

County,

from A5 prove $28,650 for the county’s share in the FY 2019 budget. Auburn will pay $16,356; Opelika, $11,880 and Smiths Station $3,546 as their respective shares of the 2019 program.

Ham also announced that a central website for pictures and other information on Lee County’s lost and taken dogs and cats would be designed and operated by capable

professional operators.

Ham hopes to bring the proposal for the above for the commission’s discussion and approval within the next 30 days.

District 1 Commissioner Shelia Eckman led a discussion about a potential citizens’ animal control task force, first discussed several meetings ago. Eckman declined to introduce a formal motion regarding such a task force, instead asking interested citizens to bring a formal proposal to the commission.

Ham also led a discus-

sion of revisions to the county’s solid waste policy. Commissioners are in general agreement that commercial waste, both legally and illegally dumped, is a major contributor to the county’s solid waste woes. This is coupled with the fact that 13 of the county’s 15 solid waste disposal sites do not have full- time personnel to enforce current dumping rules.

The commission voted, again unanimously, to end acceptance of all commercial solid waste as of Oct. 1. Fines for

illegal dumping will be increased to a maximum of $1,500 per occurrence.

All 15 disposal sites will be fenced to regulate dumping hours and cameras will be installed at all sites to aid in enforcement.

Smaller, individual access gates will be installed at all sites to permit deposit of individual bags of household waste after hours.

Enforcement of solid waste disposal rules will be the responsibility of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

At present, Lee County citizens pay a $15 monthly fee, collected with their real property tax, for the right to deposit garbage at any of the county’s 15 sites.

Citizens bear the burden of proof of their eligibility to deposit garbage. In addition, several con-

tract vendors pay county fees and negotiate with county residents for waste disposal.

Residents of Auburn, Opelika and Smiths Station may not dump their trash at a county disposal site and are subject to fines for doing so. Persons who have not paid the county solid waste disposal fee may take their trash to the Salem (Waste Management) landfill, take it to the Advance disposal site in Opelika or contract with one of the county’s contract vendors.

In other action, the commission: • Recognized county motor grader operator Bill Yarbrough for completion of a specialized ACCA training program, • Approved commissioners’ travel expenses to Washington, DC, with other Alabama county

officials, to meet with White House staff, • Authorized federal aid agreement for a bridge replacement on Lee Road 14 over Choctafaula Creek in southwestern Lee County, • Approved a final change order for the Beulah Senior Center to re-enforce the area under the dumpster pad, • Approved county administrator Roger Rendleman to place an aerial photograph of current Lee County Courthouse construction in an ACCA time capsule, • Approved county highway crews to remove from road ROW storm debris from areas affected by the July 21 tornado and • Approved work sessions after the next three commission meetings for preparation of the FY2019 budget.

Auburn, Opelika city officials urges residents to vote for their favorite skate park design Special to the Opelika Observer

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

Best lunch in town . . . any town

Just $5.95 includes a drink

917 So. Railroad Ave. Opelika, AL 36801 334-787-5989

1151 Opelika Road Auburn, AL 36830 334-821-3118

www.niffersplace.com dine in only, Mon-Fri 11-2

The cities of Auburn and Opelika are moving forward with plans to build a skate park at Indian Pines Golf Course. Two skate park companies, American Ramp Company and Spohn Ranch Skate Parks, each submitted a proposal for the park’s

design, and the cities are now asking for community members to vote on their favorite concept.

In June both companies held open forums to hear community members’ opinions on potential design elements. They used that input to design potential concepts for the park.

Designs from both

companies can be viewed at www.opelikaparks. com. After viewing both proposals, residents are urged to cast their vote for their favorite design. Each resident may cast one vote between now and Aug. 19.

The skate park will be built where the tennis courts are currently located. The park will be free and open to the public.

pelika O Observer Flowers,

from B7

the Big Dog still walks the halls of the State House.

The Alabama Farmers Federation or Alfa still controls the legislature.

They ran the table in legislative races all over the state. That is because they ran most of the races for their candidates. They are the kings of Goat Hill, the same way they were in 1901 when the state constitution was written. The more things change the more they stay the same.

Alfa perennially puts their power, muscle and interest in the legislature. They endorse in the statewide races and their endorsement is invaluable, especially in secondary state races. Their members vote that ballot and many conservative Alabamians look over the Farmers’ shoulder and vote along

Baseball, from B1

their heads high. Even though we lost they played a good game,” read a post on the Opelika Dixie Boys Baseball Facebook page. “We thank everyone for their support (and) we appreciate everything.”

Following is a list of results from Opelika’s three other tournament

with them.

Alfa may give a token contribution to the Agriculture Commissioner, Attorney General, or Lt. Governor race and maybe $25,000 to the governor’s race.

However, it is not unusual for them to put up to $50,000 in a House race and over $100,000 into a Senate race, along with excellent political strategy and pastures along interstates to put big signs on.

They use to play in the governor’s race.

However, they got burned badly by Bob Riley when they helped him get elected and the first thing he did was stab them in the back.

However, they have slipped around this year and will not only own the legislature, they will probably have a good friend in the governor’s office.

The day before the

primary, Kay Ivey boarded Jimmy Ranes jet to fly around the state. The first person to board with her was Beth Chapman, Alfa’s political consultant.

The next night when she came off the platform after giving her victory speech, guess who was helping her off the stage and holding her arm so that she would not fall?

It was Jimmy Parnell, the Farmers Federation president.

Folks, do not look for property taxes to be increased in the Heart of Dixie over the next four years.

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 legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

contests: Lost 11-7 to Lancaster of South Carolina in the first round Won 16-0 over Nashville of Arkansas in the second round Won 4-2 over Columbia County of Georgia in the third round.

Throughout the tournament, the community showed their support, including a motivational phone call from Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller to the Opelika team moments

before they took the field v. Columbia County.

For more information or photos from the team’s recent trip, like and follow the “Opelika Dixie Boys Baseball” Facebook page.

The tournament will continue through tonight in Bossier City, Louisiana.

For more information or updates, visit youth.dixie. org. Dixie Youth Baseball was established in 1955, and has leagues in 11 states, ranging from Texas to Virginia.

B9 August 08, 2018

Alabama Sen. Whatley pens letter on school budgets Friends, Every August marks a transition for parents and their children across the country. As we say goodbye to a great summer and welcome a brand new school year, I look forward to reconnecting with you about how I can work for you in Montgomery to support our schools, parents, teachers, and students.

The future of Alabama is only as strong and secure as our schools are today.

That’s why I’m proud of the progress we’ve made to boost local schools and my work to secure an additional $13 million in education dollars for the nation’s

Endorsement, from B7 district.”

The AFL-CIO joins a growing list of influential organizations supporting Mallory Hagan for Congress. They know she is the stronger voice Alabama needs in Washington.

Hagan is also endorsed by End Citi-

premier Pre-K program here at home. Each year, we have been able to quickly grow this program so that every Alabama family who wants to participate in Pre-K will have the opportunity to do so. This issue will continue to be one of my top priorities.

This year, the Alabama Senate approved a $6.6 billion Education Trust Fund (ETF) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2019, which starts October 1, and a 2.5% pay raise for teachers and education support personnel. It is the largest education budget since the great recession of 2008. This is a sustainable, fiscallyresponsible budget that allows schools to plan ahead for the future.

For almost a decade straight, the Republican-led Senate has passed budgets that will not go into proration and provide certainty to our administrators and teachers.

Please share with me your thoughts on how we can work together to strengthen our schools and provide the best opportunities to our future leaders in East Alabama. As always, it’s a pleasure to serve you in the Alabama Senate and I look forward to your vote and support in November. Please call me with any concerns that you have. Thanks!

zens United (ECU), The RWDSU (Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union), the Alabama New South Alliance (ANSA) on behalf of the New South Coalition (ANSC), and the Alabama Democratic Conference (ADC). She is also endorsed by 3rd Congressional district resident and equality champion, Lilly Ledbetter.

More than 50,000 Alabamians are repre-

sented by this organization and its affiliates fighting for better wages, equality in the workplace, and safer working conditions.

Hagan will also participate in an open Town Hall in Opelika Aug. 16 at the Southside Center for the Arts, which is located at 1103 Glenn St. Concerned citizens will be able to ask unfiltered questions and voice their concerns to participating candidates.

Tom Whatley www.tomwhatleyforsenate.com

CHANGES TO OPELIKA MUNICIPAL COURT AND POLICE DEPARTMENT BEGIN AUGUST 8 As the city begins construction of its new police department this month, citizens need to be aware of some changes.

August 8, 2018 – Last regular Municipal Court (court appearance) held in current location until new construction is complete.

August 9, 2018 – Municipal Court (court appearance) will move to the Southside Center for the Arts (the Brown School) at 1103 Glenn Street, Opelika. Police records and police walk-in complaints will move to the City Annex Building at 608 Avenue A, Opelika. Fencing will begin. No public access starting August 9.

August 13 – Grading and demolition will begin for the new building.

August 15 – First Municipal Court (court appearance) to be held at the Southside Center for the Arts at 1103 Glenn Street, Opelika.

August 22, 8:30 a.m. - Groundbreaking ceremony at police department at 501 South 10th Street, Opelika. Parking available at the Southside Center for the Arts.

During construction, please note that there will be NO PUBLIC ENTRANCE to the police department. There will be one rear entrance for police operations only. The public will need to visit either the City Annex building for police reports or walk-in complaints; or they will need to report to Southside Center for the Arts for court appearance. In addition, the sidewalks on 10th Street and Martin Luther King Boulevard will be closed during construction. Anticipated completion of this project is approximately 18 months.

In addition, Defensive Driving classes will be held at the Lee County Justice Center at 1900 Frederick Road, Opelika.

Contact Chuck Barber 334-444-2213 with questions regarding those classes.

For more information, please contact the Opelika Police Department at 334-705-5200, or Municipal Court at 334-705-5190.

B10 August 08, 2018

pelika O Observer

By Michelle Key Editor The Opelika Sportsplex hosted their annual “Tri for Kids� event benefitting the American Cancer Society on Saturday.

More than 170 children participated in the event raising $10,000 for ACS. Coming in first place in the 6-8 year-old division was Jack Cravens from Trussville, Alabama, with a time of 9:13 (min:secs).

Next up were Owen Vaughan from Auburn at

9:25 and Chase Beasley from Baconton, Georgia, at 9:31.

In the 9-11 yearold division, the top three competitors were: Austin O at 19:31, Justin Liu at 21:21 and Rylee Plexico at 22:29.

All three are 11 years old and from Auburn.

In the 12-15 year-old division, the top racer, Jack Carter from Auburn, came in at 39:40 with Jalen McDade from Montgomery coming in at his heels at 39:48. Max Hardin from Auburn placed third with a time of 42:23.

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

pelika O Observer Hagan,

from B7 knew then that, someday, I would run for office ... (but) I never expected that day to be today.”

Hagan later returned to the area and worked as a television reporter and later anchor for the Columbus NBC affiliate WLTZ 38.

Running for Office After being approached by a group of concerned

Lee County citizens about running for the position, Hagan said her initial response was “no.” However, seeing only four women under the age of 40 in Congress proved to be the motivating factor in her decision to run.

Hagan held a press conference Feb. 6 at her mother Mandy Moore’s Opelika dance studio “Make Your Move” to announce her candidacy.

While campaigning, Hagan said she heard a litany of complaints about Rogers and his lack of ac-

cessibility from constituents across the 13-county district.

“Time and time again, the people of Alabama’s 3rd District tell me that Congressman Rogers is not working for or listening to the people.

For 16 years, he has refused phone calls, denied constituents town hall meetings and failed to pass any meaningful legislation,” Hagan said.

“He is a career politician who takes corporate money and spends little time in Alabama. It’s

time to change that.”

“A grassroots movement” Without significant funding, Hagan said she has relied on energy, enthusiasm, time, vigorous campaigning and wordof-mouth to spread her campaign and platforms.

“Our campaign is a viable one, and I have no doubt in my mind that this is the opportunity to take corporate money out of politics and give the power of our representation back to the people of Alabama. I am

B11 August 08, 2018 a full-time candidate and I intend to leave no stone un-turned,” Hagan said.

“We are working 24/7 to show our friends and neighbors that I am the better choice for representation when it comes to the people of Alabama. We are focusing energy on our college campuses to make sure that all of Alabama’s people exercise their right to vote.”

Opelika will serve as a stop on Hagan’s campaign tour throughout the district. Following is

a current list of endorsements that Hagan has received throughout her campaign: Alabama Democratic Conference Alabama New South Alliance ALF-CIO Central Alabama Labor Foundation End Citizens United Jaleel White Lilly Ledbetter Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union.

For more information or to donate to Hagan’s campaign, visit www. haganforhouse.com.

SAR stands for “The Sons of American Revolution. Our sister organization is the DAR “Daughters of the Revolution.”

The name of our local SAR Chapter is "Richard Henry Lee.” Both DAR & SAR were founded by our Patriot Ancestors who fought the British in the "American Revolution" between the years 1775 – 1783.

The purpose of the contests is to assist educators, in subject areas of History, Art, English and Speech and provide incentives to students to understand American History and what makes the U.S.A. great.

SAR will reward students from 3rd – 12th grades who participate in one or more of the contests the SAR sponsors each year. Some students may be rewarded with certificates and others monetary rewards at the local, state and national level.

These contests are open to all home-schooled, private or public, and religious school students in Chambers and Lee counties.

All contests open in September and close by the 1st Saturday after Thanksgiving with Judging to take place on the 1st Saturday in December.

Contest Coordinator: Charles Segrest Phone Number: 334-821-0157 Email Address: chasdseg@mindspring.com

CONTEST INFORMATION

Opelika

B12

Family & Religion

August 08, 2018

The greatest of these is...

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

he situation at Corinth wasn’t so different than what we find today—at least in general terms.

Those who were gifted in regard to knowledge, the ability to prophesy, speaking in tongues or something else had become puffed up and arrogant in regard to their status in the community of disciples. They believed their gifts meant they were accomplished in life—more so than the rest of the believers.

Paul wrote the thirteenth chapter to show them that if you aren’t accomplished in love, you aren’t accomplished in life—period. Without love he tells them (and us), you gain nothing (v.

3) and are nothing (v. 2).

It was a serious misunderstanding of the nature

ement of their of their gifts individual to glory and commuand exalt nity life, it in them. would eclipse The special all of the gifts would benefits from “cease,” “be

By Bruce Green their other stilled” and Teaching Minister at gifts in the “pass away” 10th Street Church of way that the (v. 8).

Christ in Opelika sun eclipses They were the moon, the temporary. way maturity surpasses In contrast, love would immaturity (v. 11). never fail (v. 8). Based on this alone, they should What they knew of God through their gifts was have understood the like what they saw in a superiority of love and first century mirror (not sought it more than the like our HD mirrors togifts they possessed. day with bright lights)— When employed a vague reflection. When correctly, the benefits they reached maturity in from their gifts to the love, they would poscommunity were real sess an intimate, “face to and “for the common face” knowledge of Him good” (12:7). Still, (v. 12 and 1 John 4:7-8). what they offered was Paul’s concluding partial in comparison to flourish points us to faith, love. When mature love became the dominant el- hope and love as the

Church calendar

• Aug. 15 - Trinity Presbyterian Church of Opelika will hold a “Family Fun Night” Aug. 15 at AMF Auburn Lanes. The event is open for all ages.

No food can be brought inside, but concessions will be offered during the evening. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. Forms can be filled out on www.tpcopelika.org.

The bowling alley is located at 719 Opelika Road in Auburn.

• Trinity United Methodist Church will host their next membership class on Sunday, August 26 at 5:00 p.m.

•First Baptist Church of Opelika will host “DivorceCare” each Wednesday this fall. The weekly seminar/support group will

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

ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 1311 Second Ave. #758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta #742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy #749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. #749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. #745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy #749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B #7064421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. #745-6670 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave #742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. #745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd #745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. #745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. #745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. #742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr #749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. #887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika

focus on helping members heal from the hurt in a warm, caring environment.

The first session will be held Aug. 22 from 6-7:30 p.m. in Room AE-203 (two-story red brick building across) from the sanctuary. Workbooks are $15.

For more information, call 334-745-5715. FBCO is located at 301 S. 8th St. • The popular contemporary Christian group Big Daddy Weave will perform at First Baptist Church of Opelika Sept.

14 as a part of their “Jesus, I Believe” tour. Brandon Heath will serve as the show opener. Visit ticketfly.com for tickets or call 334-745-5715.

there is something even more glorious—the love that shaped the cross and brought about the resurrection. When we think of the Father, Son and Spirit (see the obvious allusion in 12:4-6), love is the last word (1 John 4:8).

Such love is not the sloppy sentimentality celebrated so often in song and in movies, but the enduring, conquering tough-minded attitude and action of unceasing good will toward others.

Jesus said His disciples’ practice of this is how the world would know He was sent from God (John 13:34-35; 17:20-21).

May our theology become our biography!

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

Verse of the Week Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

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

things that remain. When all is said and done, it is these three virtues that sustain community. If we step away from the thirteenth chapter and look at the entire letter in light of these, it seems possible that Paul is also summing up the vast sweep of his words to them.

In the early part of 1 Corinthians, he spoke about the power of the cross in contrast to human wisdom and their need to embrace that through faith (1:18-2:4).

He will conclude with an equally stirring section on the resurrection in 15:1-58. Together, these two sections bracket the letter, calling them to faith and hope.

As great and fundamentally important as these two attributes are,

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

James 1:2-4 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922

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

Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!

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

The Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home Gospel Train Sunday mornings from 6-10 a.m.

pelika Observer O

B13 August 08, 2018

Alabama Rural Ministries to continue legacy of Pepperell United Methodist

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Alabama Rural Ministries is looking to preserve the history and legacy of Opelika’s Pepperell United Methodist Church.

Following the church’s closing and final service held June 24, ARM assumed day-to-day operations of the structure from local Methodist leadership.

According to ARM founder Lisa Pierce, the current plan is to

move her organization’s headquarters from the church’s basement to the upstairs portion of the structure next month.

“We moved our offices to their basement in January 2014 ... and at one point, we were looking to move back closer to the Auburn area.

But when we found out what was happening, the conversation switched from that to, ‘what about moving upstairs?’”

Pierce said.

“Extending the love of Jesus”

In 1998, Pierce, who was serving as a campus minister at the University of West Alabama, saw a need for restoration of both homes and souls in the Livingston

area.

Through a joint corroboration between West Alabama’s Wesleyan Foundation and Auburn University, Pierce said her “experiment” blossomed into a full-scale movement that has restored nearly 700 homes for families, senior citizens and people with disabilities across Alabama in its 20-plus years of existence.

In addition to the organization’s Opelika headquarters, ARM cur-

rently operates a field office in Tuskegee, home repair and day camp in Livingston and works with local churches and student organizations to further their work.

Furthering the Lord’s mission Though the church no longer holds services, Pierce said it will still serve as a stepping stone for God both in the Pepperell Mill Village community and beyond.

“Sometimes, when something dies or closes in this case, there’s a vi-

sion and opportunity for something to be resurrected. And that’s what our vision is,” Pierce said. “Members of the congregation told us that they believed that their was a new vision for the church. There’s other ways that this church can be a church for the community, as it should.”

For more information about ARM, visit www. arm-al.org or call 334501-4276. Their Opelika office is located at 200 26th St.

OBITUARIES Barbara Mae Hand James

John D Meals

Mrs. Barbara Mae Hand James, 87 of Opelika, passed away August 2, 2018 at Bethany House in Auburn. Graveside services were held Monday, August 6, 2018 at 11:00am at Garden Hills Cemetery. Reverend Larry Doster officiated.

Mrs. James is preceded in death by her husband Frank Hamilton James, and her sister Glenda Kollai.

She is survived by her children: Marie Nelson, David James, Patsy Clark, Fran Murphy, and their families; sister, Gloria Casey, along with several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers the family suggest memorials be made to Central Baptist Church.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.

John D. Meals,72, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on July 31, 2018, at his home in Opelika, Alabama.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilfred L Meals and Mattie D Jones Meals, and two brothers, Charles and William Meals.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Melinda Elizabeth Rogers Meals; son, John Ryan Meals (Cynthia) of Opelika, Alabama; son, Michael Alan Meals (Hailee) of Medina, Tennessee; grandchildren: Madison, John David, John Jesse and James Meals; and his sister Rebecca Day of

Wilson Lee Mr. Wilson Lee, age 78, passed away on July 30, 2018, in Opelika, AL. Wilson is survived by his wife, Dorothy Gaston Lee of Opelika; his son, Lance Wilson Lee of Montgomery, AL; his daughter, Charlotte Lee Bowman of Columbus, GA; his daughter, Margaret Lee Thomas of Buford, GA; his daughter, Virginia Lee King of Acworth, GA; and his son, Maj. David James Lee of Montgomery, AL; sixteen grandchildren; and two sisters, Myrtle Lee Kendrick and Emma Lorrine Young of Atmore, AL. He is preceded in death by his father, Verren Delvin Lee and his

mother, Loney Walker Lee of Baldwin County, AL; and his five beloved siblings.

Wilson was born on August 24, 1939, in Pensacola, FL to parents Verrin Delvin Lee and Loney Walker Lee. While in high school, he received the American farmer degree through his Vocational Ag classes.

He was also runner up for Future Farmer of the year.

He graduated from Auburn University in 1964 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Agriculture Education.

In 1966, he graduated from the University of Arizona with a Master’s in Economics.

In 1967, he returned to Auburn, AL and joined the faculty at Auburn University

Humboldt, Tennessee; and many close relatives. John graduated in 1963 from Gibson High School in Tennessee and then earned a Bachelors degree from Union University in Jackson, Tennessee. He taught junior and senior high math and coached track in Huntsville, Alabama.

There, John led Grissom High School to a state championship in 1972. He accepted a position as the assistant track and field coach at Auburn University. John received his Masters while at Auburn.

John worked for 20 years in the Opelika City School system as teacher, assistant principal, principal of Opelika High School , and assistant superintendent of

with a position with the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, where he worked for more than thirty-three years.

His accomplishments included introducing an Industrial Development Education program that continues to serve fifty-five Alabama counties. His work was recognized by two Alabama governors.

After 33 years, he was the top economic developer in the Cooperative Extension Service. He conducted numerous workshops and taught civic leaders all over the state the things they needed to do to draw new industry to their communities.

He retired in 1999, when he started his second, more favored,

Sam Enloe Schuessler

Opelika City Schools. He also served as headmaster of Lee-Scott Academy from 1992-2000. He was a member of the Board at Indian Pines golf course for several years. John was an active member of First Baptist Church Opelika serving his Lord in many positions and served as Chairman of Deacons. He was loved and respected by all who knew him.

Visitation was held at First Baptist Opelika on Friday, August 3, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. with the service following at 1:00p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.

career of being a retiree.

Wilson was a great family man and a loving father. He married Dorothy Louesa Gaston in 1965 and the couple has five children together. The couple recently celebrated their fifty-third wedding anniversary.

Wilson was an active man who was involved in religious, civic and community organizations for the majority of his life.

He enjoyed the great outdoors, traveling, developing the family property, and spending time with family and friends.

He was elected to serve as the president of the local chapter of the Sons of the American Reveloption and is a past president of chapter 270 of the

Sam Enloe Schuessler entered the presence of his Lord and Savior after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer at Bethany House on August 1, 2018.

Sam was born on August 3, 1968 in Langdale, Alabama and was raised in Dalton, Georgia. He graduated in 1991 from the University of Georgia with a degree in Accounting. After living in Atlanta and West Point, GA, his family moved to Opelika eleven years ago.

Sam was the founder of Schuessler and Company, a Financial Planning and Investment Advisory firm. He was a CPA and had previously worked in the telecommunications and banking industries.

He was involved with Carpenter's for Christ, the High Tech Prayer Ministry in Atlanta, and the Opelika Chamber of Commerce. He was very active at Lakeview Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Stacy, as well as his two sons, Sam II of Birmingham and Lee of Opelika.

He is also survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Morgan Schuessler of Columbus, GA, his sister, Nan (Rawson) Haverty of Atlanta, his brother Morgan (Kim) Schuessler of Puerto Rico, mother-in-law, Mrs. Randall Maret, brother-in-law Ross (Dawn) Maret, sister-in-law Paige Maret - all of Dalton, GA, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his brother John Morgan Schuessler. A memorial service was held at 11a.m.

Aug. 4, 2018 at Lakeview Baptist Church, Reverend Cliff Knight officiated. Visitation followed the service in the Church vestibule.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Lakeview Baptist Church - 1600 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, AL 36830 Trinity Christian School 1010 India Road, Opelika, AL 36801 Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.

National Association of Retired Federal Employees. He was also a co-founder of Agrimissions for The Mission Society of the United Methodist Church.

His funeral was held at 4 p.m. on August 5, 2018 at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home Chapel in Opelika.

Visitation was held from 5 - 7 p.m. on Saturday, August 4, 2018. Reverend Mark McCarty and Reverend Ricky Thomaston of Pine Grove Church officiated.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions can be made to the Pine Grove Building Fund, 7235 US Hwy 29 North, Opelika, AL 36804.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.

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B14 August 08, 2018

pelika O Observer

Last weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s answers:

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pelika O Observer

B15 August 08, 2018

COMICS

There is a thin line that separates laughter and pain, comedy and tragedy, humor and hurt.

-Erma Bombeck

BUZZ ON OVER!!

It's time for the 15th annual GREAT GROWN-UP SPELLING BEE

Thursday, August 9th Auburn Alumni Center 317 South College Street (Plenty of parking available) 5 p.m. BBQ & cocktails 5:30 p.m. Competition Begins Tickets $40 There's still time to sign up a team or just come for the fun!

Call 334-705-0001 for more information facebook.com/greatgrownupspellingbee Benefitting the Lee County Literacy Coalition