Opelika Observer 08-19-2020 E-edition

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

VOL. 12, NO.46

pelika Observer O

Opelika, Alabama

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New school year brings new challenges

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

By Hannah Lester and Will Fairless Opelika City Schools welcomed students back last Wednesday, Aug. 12, for the start of the 2020-21 school year.

According to a statement from OCS, the schools’ staffs and students have been doing well to adjust to the new normal.

“We are very proud of the students and how they have followed the guidelines. We are all doing our best to wear

masks and practice social distancing.” The statement continues, “Our teachers and staff have worked very hard to prepare for the beginning of school.”

The first few days of in-person school were focused on new routines involving hand washing and social distancing, especially with younger students. Likewise with virtual school, the first few days were used to acclimate teachers and students to that educational medium.

OCS Superintendent

Mark Neighbors said, “As I visited the schools on the first day, I saw many excited students and teachers. It was good to have students back in the buildings. It was also good to have our virtual teachers engaging with their students on the first day.”

Auburn City Schools The first week of school at Auburn City Schools ended on Friday and with it came nine confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Auburn City Schools

The Gallery on Railroad celebrates 40 years in Opelika

By Hannah Lester com

Customers who enter The Gallery on Railroad become immersed in the luxurious, ornate and welcoming atmosphere. It has been that Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Opelika has been growing steadily over the last few years with developers bringing in new businesses. Although growing, with several bars, restaurants and unique shops,

Index OPINION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY. . . . . . . .A7 RELIGION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A11 COMICS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A14

without symptoms of COVID-19,” she said.

“Students in close contact to a confirmed case of COVID-19 are quarantined for 14 days, in accordance to guidelines provided by The Alabama Department of Public Health.”

The rumors started late last week but went unconfirmed by the school system. A release was sent out Friday that said the number of cases would not be released, but there were precautions taken within the schools.

The follow-up Sunday release was then sent out.

Students are required to screen for the virus before entering the school or bus, Herring said.

If symptoms are detected, including a fever over 100.4, cough, runny nose, congestion, vomiting or other common coronavirus symptoms, the student must stay home.

“The matter of community transmission See SCHOOLS, page A2

Opelika Main Street starts Downtown Investment Guide hlester@opelikaobserver.

By Wil Crews Opelika Observer

See GALLERY, page A3

Superintendent Cristen Herring released a statement Sunday evening confirming the COVID-19 cases and said that 112 students were required to quarantine as a result.

All nine of the current coronavirus cases were in middle or high school students, grades 7 through 12., Herring said in the release.

“Students with a positive test result must refrain from attending school for a minimum of ten days including a period of time

SPORTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B1 POLITICS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B7 PUBLIC NOTICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . B9 CLASSIFIEDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B11

the city keeps its small-town charm.

Opelika Main Street started a new program called the Downtown Investment Guide, which will help new businesses understand Opelika, according to a press release from Opelika Main Street.

“The guide outlines

various reasons to choose downtown as your next business location and why one should invest in the district,” the release said.

Opelika Main Street promotes Organization, Design, Promotion and Economic See GUIDE, page A3

A2 August 19, 2020

As the longest reigning councilor for over 25 years, I have seen many improvements in Opelika and Ward 1 from economic development (jobs), safety, to our public schools. From the first phase of infrastructure and growth to the mega expansion of industries, Opelika has grown into a metropolitan city which affords amenities or attractiveness of a large city. All of the progress has come from the leadership of the City Council and Mayor working together.

One of the most misunderstood aspects of city government is the separation between the mayor and the council. Like government of the state and federal levels,

Letter to the Editor

the city government is divided into three separate but equal branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. Each of these branches has specific duties and powers and restrictions. The council is the legislative branch which has the authority to set policies and pass ordinances or laws that determine the services the City will offer, and the mayor is the chief executive officer of the city who runs the day by day operations of the city under the policies fixed by the city council. As a result, citizens and councilmembers must understand that individual councilmembers, acting alone, have no greater power or authority than any citizen of the city. In

other words, the council can only act as the governing body.

The City of Opelika and Ward 1 have many challenges to face in the next four years; therefore, it is very important to elect the candidate that knows, works, and understands the mayor-council form of government. In addition, I believe a good council member is one who wants to serve, seeks to learn role/responsibilities, listens to citizens, and has integrity. I have listened to all of the candidates and I feel Mr. Jamie Lowe fits these qualities.

Mr. Lowe’s ability to serve has started young in his 20 years of life. Throughout his high school years he has shown leadership

skills in many capacities but most importantly in the leading role as president of his class and president of two major service clubs Anchor/Key. He has spent many hours helping people and his peers as a peer tutor in nearly every subject and continues now as a Professional Math, History, and Science Tutor. Lowe is a founding member of the organization Lee County Spirit of Democracy (SOD), and he being on the steering council helped to organize media campaigns, went on the radio and did press interviews, town halls, and Civic Saturdays and created Young Spirit of Democracy.

He is passionate about government and uses it for the good of people.

Also, he has served as an Alabama Senate Page to Senator Ross.

His purpose driven attitude has prepared him in advance for knowing the role and responsibilities of a city councilor. He has attended consistently and frequently the Opelika City Council work sessions and business meetings since the age of 14 over half of his life.

Lowe is the youngest Divorce and Family Mediator in the State of Alabama and works with the Lee County Family Court. All experiences afford him an opportunity to listen and to understand the needs of people and passionately work for them.

Mr. Jamie Lowe is a student of Political Science at Auburn

University, a recipient of the National Ron Brown Scholarship, and a member of the Board of Directors for Lee County Young Leaders-patterned after Leadership Lee County/Alabama.

This election is about the future of Opelika and how to continue the progress in Ward 1. Anyway you measure it, Mr. Jamie Lowe has the personality to work with all people from all walks of life and he has shown the commitment we need.

I hope everyone will vote on August 25th and join me in voting for Jamie Lowe, Opelika City Council-Ward1

SCHOOLS >>

be quarantined and follow the direction of healthcare officials.”

Both school options, whether in-person or virtual, will continue to proceed for Auburn City Schools.

“While each of us desires a return to the traditions of fall and the festivities we enjoy, personal responsibility for mitigating the

risk of transmission is incumbent upon every person,” Herring said.

“In order to protect the potential of school success, minimizing exposure and infection requires our collective engagement in the practices of social distancing, proper use of facial covering and stringent personal hygiene.”

FROM A1 generates an additional impact on school attendance, for both students and employees,” Herring said. “In the circumstance of one family member being ill or having a positive or pending COVID-19 test, all other members of the household must

Sincerely, Councilwoman Patsy Jones, Ward 1

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Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Michelle@opelikaobserver.com

Name: Address: Publisher: Michelle Key Associate Editors: Will Fairless and Hannah Lester Marketing: Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Sports Writers: Wil Crews, Rick Lanier and D. Mark Mitchell

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A3 August 19, 2020

Opelika’s Mayor Gary Fuller elected Vice President Of The Alabama League of Municipalities Courtesy of the City of Opelika Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller was recently elected by his municipal colleagues to serve as Vice President of the Alabama League of Municipalities for 2020-2021. He was elected and took office during the League’s Annual Business Session, which was held in Montgomery.

GALLERY >> FROM A1 way for four decades.

The Gallery, located at 809 S Railroad Ave. in downtown Opelika, is a “unique, eclectic treasure” that specializes in custom framing, fine art and home and gift accessories.

“Our main business, when we opened 40 years ago, was a custom frame shop and art gallery,” said owner Debbie Purves.

“I don’t know when I started with the little accessories but I started with enough to Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

“We appreciate Mayor Fuller’s commitment to his community, local government and our organization,” said League Executive Director Greg Cochran.

“Municipalities are the foundation of Alabama’s economy and Mayor Fuller understands that collaboration and partnerships across all levels are necessary to provide essential resources to

foster safe, vibrant communities where our citizens can live, work, play and prosper.”

Mayor Fuller serves on the League’s Stimulus Task Force and is the past chair of the League’s Committee on State and Federal Legislation. He has completed the League’s Basic and Advanced Certified Municipal Official programs and is currently working

on his CMO Emeritus designation, which is awarded to officials who have acquired a minimum of 120 credit hours of Continuing CMO Education through a series of oneday programs designed especially for mayors and councilmembers who voluntarily wish to receive formal training in municipal government. Emeritus status

fill a corner and it has just grown.”

Celebrating their 40th anniversary on arguably Opelika’s most recognizable street, when the Gallery opened in May of 1980, downtown Opelika was not like it is today.

“We were the first people to renovate a building down here,” Purves said. “Most people thought we had lost our minds.“ Purves said she considers herself fortunate to have witnessed downtown’s transformation over the years.

“It means everything, it was a

dream,” she said.

“Growing up as a little girl, downtown was where everyone went. When the malls opened and seeing how everything downtown sort of decayed, it’s nice to see it’s all been brought back.”

With coronavirus afflicting so many business, Purves said that The Gallery has actually been doing

great.

“People are home and seeing the things that they have wanted to do for a long time.”

So, speaking of a long time, what do the next 40 years hold for The Gallery?

“I don’t know; I’m here, keeping on keeping on,” Purves said. “I hope people just stay safe and keep preserving our beautiful town.”

GUIDE >> FROM A1 Vitality.

“Opelika Main Street is more than just an event planner. We are an economic devel-

opment driver,” said Opelika Main Street Executive Director Ken Ward. “Our organization is dedicated to growing our downtown through business recruitment and retention

See MAYOR, page A5

programs.”

The guide is available to the public at the Opelika Main Street website (opelikamainstreet.org) or by phone (334-7450466).

A4 August 19, 2020

T

here was an Office marathon last night on the Comedy Channel, as there often is. Insomnia was plaguing me again, and so I played a game I frequently play in the wee hours of the morning – I fondly refer to it as “How Many Lines of This Episode of The Office Can I Quote Verbatim?”

Sometimes I do this with my eyes closed (just to show off to myself), but then I miss the comedic genius of Steve Carrell’s expressions and the perfection that is a classic ‘Jim Halpert look’ tossed in the direction of the camera.

Just as I was about to doze, one of the best episodes of the entire series started – ‘Goodbye, Michael.’

‘Goodbye, Michael’ If you’re a fan of The Office, you have the same love/hate relationship with this episode as I do. If you’re not a fan, I beg of you… please watch the entire series. Be patient with the first season. Let it grow on you, and I promise that by the time you reach Season 7, Episode 22 your heart will be just as invested as those of us who truly love this show and you will weep when Michael leaves.

His staff thinks he is leaving the next day, but he’s scheduled a flight a day early.

They don’t realize the whole day is his own private goodbye to everyone and everything he loves about The Office.

I lay there last night, with Elvis

By Wendy Hodge breathing in my ear, reciting Michael’s last “That’s what she said.” And this morning, I’m sitting at my desk, knowing that today is my very own last day at the office.

It’s supposed to be tomorrow, the day that

I clock out for the last time. But I’ve decided that I just can’t do a whole day of goodbyes. Nobody knows it yet, but today is my own ‘Goodbye, Michael’ day.

A goodbye looming over your head has the

power to make routine, mundane things seem bittersweet. I find myself silently reciting a chorus of “This is the last time I….” It’s the last time I ask my co-workers how their weekend was; the last time I eat lunch at this table; and the last time I put this headset on and get ready to answer Monday morning phone calls. It’s the last time Misty gives me a call list with my name written in blue highlighter with hearts dancing in the corner of the page.

And in a few hours, it will be the last time I hang up my headset and clock out.

There will be no more early mornings huddled around the latest Scentsy delivery, inhaling while we

ooh and ahh. No more fits of giggles that make it impossible to talk on the phone.

No more yawns and stretches and “Is this day ever gonna end?!” No more Friday afternoon Sno Biz runs. No more catered meals and Dunkin Donuts from drug reps.

There is so much that I will miss. And so much that I have to be thankful for.

I will miss the sweet British lady who calls to verify her appointment in those lilting London tones. I will miss the themed costumes for Halloween – zombies, mermaids, and Game of Thrones.

I will miss the way we’ve all learned to See HODGE, page A5

Alabama Bucket List: Whitewater Express

T

his is how our morning began on the day we chose to go Whitewater rafting: chaos, concern, tears, panic, emptiness and frustration; I could add a few more. But on the tip of this iceberg, my eldest son found a glimmer of hope.

“Since our day is mostly ruined, what if we all just go find something fun to do together?”

We all took a deep breath and thought for a bit, and in a moment’s time, we had a 2:00 reservation to go Whitewater rafting in Columbus, Georgia. In a blink, we went from pandemonium to pure excitement. This, my dear readers, is how you learn to roll in a pandemic, a practice that is sure to continue

L

isten, I know you’re busy.

And you probably don’t want to read anything super long.

So I’ll make it quick.

I promise. Once I’ve typed 2,345,402 words, I’ll stop writing.

But I’m worried about you.

No. Please. Don’t stop reading yet.

Because I’m serious.

You are not all right.

You haven’t told your family what you’re going through. Your friends don’t know either. You’re depressed.

And depression is a real thing.

Sure, it’s easy to hide it right now with everyone quarantining. But you’re drowning. And I just want you to know you have a friend.

The weird thing about depression is that it’s like a mosquito bite that infects you with yellow fever. On the surface it’s a little swollen

for years to come.

Now I know that technically this is not Alabama. However, I am including this adventure on the Bucket List because it is so close to home and such a very incredible thing to do with people you love.

I heard about Whitewater Express a few years ago, and this year was perfect for us since little Shep was just big enough to go along for the adventure. Whitewater Express is just off Highway 431 in downtown Columbus.

It took exactly 30 minutes for us to get there from Opelika and there was no wait because we had made a reservation.

Whitewater Express runs the classic rafting guide daily at 9 a.m.,

By Bradley Robertson 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., eastern time zone.

The classic trip is best for first timers like my kids. Each boat has a guide who will coach you through every rapid and teach you all the good history and knowledge behind the Chattahoochee River.

My little farm clan was eager and wasted no time in getting suited up in helmets and vests and putting on brave demeanors. I could sense slight apprehension from the silence of Shep, but there was no way he was going to let the older kids have all the fun.

We set off, with oars in hand, for a bus loaded with rafts to embark on life and laughter.

Whitewater Express in Columbus, Georgia, opened in 2012 and is part of the nationally known rafting outfitter that serves on the Ocoee and Nantahala Rivers. The company has been around since 1980 and is the same outfitter that oversaw all water sports during the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. A good bit

of money was put into the Columbus project to make it accessible and safe.

We arrived a few minutes down the road at our drop-in point.

The Chattahoochee waters were shining bright for us that day, only a few clouds in the sky and rapids visible downstream far into the distance.

We got the quickest instructions from our guide and we helped carry our raft to the water’s edge. We hopped in our “boat,” as Shep called it, and were on our way.

This portion of the Chattahoochee is either all still-water or fast-moving rapids.

There is no in between, which I found great for kids and adults. This offers much time to rest

and relax and enjoy the wildlife and scenery.

We soon arrived at our first rapid. Braxton and I sat in the front together, Sissy and Shep caught seats in the middle and our guide had the tail end of the raft.

“Row two,” the guide yelled. “Row four, row four again.”

Braxton was grinning ear to ear and the look on Shep’s face said, “what have I gotten myself into?”

I was laughing hysterically, filled with complete joy to be hanging out with my growing kids.

Our raft flew up into the air, bouncing over wave, after wave. We felt wild and free and there is just nothing more soothing than the

And right now suicide rates are the highest they’ve been since World War II. “We have people now who don’t know how to feed their family,” said American Psychiatric Association President Jeffrey Geller. “There are masses of people who are quite worried today because they don’t know what is going to happen... That kind of anxiety exacerbates fragility.”

Even though you might not realize it, a mass psychological trauma is happening in your backyard. This pandemic is more than a mere virus. It’s anxiety, fear, unemployment, addictions, overdoses, isolation and you have every right to feel depressed. You’re not crazy. You’re human.

You are undergoing real trauma, and trauma alters your brain. I wish I could explain how it

all works, but I can’t.

Because I don’t know how it works. I'm a plain hick from Nowhere, U.S.A. without credentials.

Even so, I do know depression. I’ve had it myself. And I know you’re humiliated to admit that you have it.

Which only makes it worse.

You have no reason to trust me—I think we’ve already established I’m a hick—but if you can’t admit the truth to yourself, you’re not going to get better.

And I’ll bet you really want to get better.

We all want you to get better. And that’s the key here. Other people. Other people are going to help you.

You can’t get through this on your own. You probably think you can, but that’s the illusion major depressive disor-

See ROBERTSON, page A5

Depression area. No big deal. It’s just a tiny bite. Suck it up cupcake. But underneath the skin it’s Hiroshima. And yellow fever doesn’t just go away until it’s done some damage.

So when people tell you, “don’t be sad,” or “cheer up,” or whatever stupid things they say, they’re talking out of their hindparts.

Telling someone to cheer up during depression is like telling a man with pancreatic cancer to “snap out of it.”

The concept of mental health among most Americans is totally screwed up. We get it all wrong. To many, the term “mental illness” is another way of saying, “Whoa, that guy’s a whack job.” And this makes people who suffer ashamed to admit they’re suffering.

It’s not fair. And it’s downright cruel. A

By Sean Dietrich guy who breaks his leg in a skiing accident is likely to get more genuine concern from his friends than someone with clinical depression.

But we can’t change society, so I don’t want to get off track by talking about that.

I don’t have enough room. Besides, the real reason I am writing this is because I want you to know that you're not alone.

Look, just because nobody ADMITS they’re depressed right now doesn’t mean they

aren’t. They’re just not telling you about it.

Don’t believe me?

Well, the U.S. Census Bureau just announced that one third of Americans are probably clinically depressed due to the pandemic.

One. Third.

Take a second and think about that little statistic. One third of all America means people you actually know.

Right now. This is like saying that the entire population of roughly 17 U.S. states suffers from major depressive disorder.

This is not just a tiny problem. Depression is stabbing people faster than a knife fight in a closet. A federal emergency hotline reported a 1000 percent increase in depression cases since the pandemic began.

Online therapy companies have reported a 65 percent increase in patients.

See DIETRICH, page A5

A5 August 19, 2020

City of Opelika continues ADA work Courtesy of the City of Opelika The City of Opelika is beginning its second phase of implementing Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance work on sidewalks

MAYOR >> FROM A3

also requires earning a total of 15 points, which can be achieved by serving on ALM committees and attending specific ALM and National League of Cities (NLC) events.

Through these programs, Mayor Fuller has received formal classroom training in subjects such as council meeting procedures; parliamentary procedure; the Open Meetings Law; public records; ordinance drafting; conflicts of interest; the State

ROBERTSON >> FROM A4

splash of fresh water in a hot July sun. We were back among calm waters within seconds, smiles shined around the raft as we successfully completed our first rapid on the Chattahoochee.

We continued over the next hour and a

DIETRICH>> FROM A4

ders create.

You can’t yank yourself out of this funk any more than you can find your way through the Grand Canyon blindfolded and drunk.

and intersections in the Northside area this week. Crews will start with improvements at 3rd Avenue and 12th Street and then will work on 3rd Avenue and 11th Street and 3rd Avenue and 10th Street.

This project should take Ethics Law; duties of the mayor and council; tort liability; the competitive bid law; zoning and planning; annexation; municipal regulatory powers; municipal revenues and expenditures; personnel actions; and leadership development.

Based in Montgomery, the Alabama League of Municipalities was organized in 1935 and has served for 85 years as the recognized voice of the cities and towns in Alabama. Representing more than 450 member municipalities, the League works

approximately three weeks.

The city has also started its second phase of tree removals for safety improvements.

The city asks that citizens be aware of road signs and drive safely, as crews will be in sevto secure enactment of legislation enabling all cities and towns to perform their functions more efficiently and effectively; offers specialized training for both municipal officials and employees; holds conferences and meetings at which views and experiences of officials may be exchanged; and conducts continuing studies of the legislative, administrative and operational needs, problems and functions of Alabama’s municipal governments. For more information, visit www.almonline.org.

eral areas of the city.

About two years ago, the City of Opelika began working on a longterm ADA self-evaluation/transition plan. We set out to become the safest, most businessand family-friendly city in America by

2023. As a part of this plan, all city sidewalks, buildings, programs and services must become ADA compliant.

This work will continue over the next few months. There will be some road closures in the process. We ap-

preciate your patience while we make ADA improvements around the city. For more information, contact Kevin Rice, City of Opelika ADA Compliance Officer, at 334-705-2083 or krice@opelika-al.gov.

HODGE >> communicate with our eyes from behind our masks. (It’s amazing how much you can convey with an arched eyebrow or a wink.)

I will miss hearing Kristen in her office, sometimes laughing and sometimes venting, but always ending up smiling and laughing. She is smart and rock steady in a crisis.

I will miss Laura‌.

Sweet, soft-spoken Laura. She is one of the kindest people I know. She puts up with so much from unhappy patients, but she does it with grace and a smile.

I will miss Nae. She is new here. She’ll be the one to move to my desk and sit in my chair. She’ll pick up where I left off, and she will do a fabulous job. She is quiet but funny, and I wish I’d had a chance to know her longer.

I will miss William

– the youngest guy in the office. He is witty and fun and loves ‘The Office’ almost as much as I do. He speaks the language of sarcasm beautifully and always makes me laugh.

I will miss Misty.

So much. She is warm and generous.

Her laugh is as big as mine, and she is a morning person like me. I will miss that laugh. I will miss the way she would place a mountain of work on my desk, smile and pat the stack while actually saying the words “pat pat.� I will miss the way her eyes light up when Wilton’s catered breakfast arrives. I will miss her colored sticky notes and rainbow highlighters.

I will miss arriving at work to find the back door propped open and smoke hanging heavy in the kitchen because Misty likes her bacon “dark.�

Mostly, I will miss her words. She speaks

Southern, but so fast that I can’t always keep up. I have a scrapbook with all my “Misty sayingsâ€? saved along with pictures of her in her Eeyore costume and with the bucket on her head from Sno Biz. There are selfies with filters and selfies from our office night out at Wild Wing CafĂŠ.

There’s the poster her girls made to welcome me when I stayed with them last year. And there are thank you notes and notes meant to encourage me when the world gets hectic.

Now I’ve packed my vase full of seashells, my sapphire blue handmade bowl that held my paper clips, and the picture of me and Tim on a late night boat ride.

It’s time to clock out and tell them all “See you tomorrow!� when what I’m really saying is, “Goodbye. Thank you all for everything.

I will miss you.�

I’m so glad we’ve had this time together.

FROM A4

half alternating between calm waters among islands and brush and a heron or two, and wild rapids causing an adrenaline rush for any age of person. The kids were able to get out and swim a time or two and the guide kept us highly entertained with his history of the river and great knowledge

for rafting in general.

We arrived at our last rapid and the guide was sure to explain that this was by far the grandest and most exciting. We all braced and prepared ourselves and I finally got an exciting “here we go� out Shep’s mouth. He smiled his biggest grin of the day, and gave out a big,

“yeeee HAW!� Sissy was in her usual champion style, cool and collected and happy as a clam. Braxton was laughing the whole way through, all of us feeling the freedom of a messy world around us.

The trip soon came to an end. The kids and I took one last swim in the Chattahoochee

and we grabbed a few pictures to document our epic day.

My kids learned a valuable and lasting lesson that day. When given a sour situation it is up to us to create our own joy and greatness. We have a choice in how we move forward. That choice can make us better and grateful or it can keep

us bitter.

The life we lead is in our own hands. We are not trees; we are able to move into better spaces and places that bring us life. Or maybe move into a wild ride down a river like the Chattahoochee.

Go create your own fun this weekend, you will never wish you didn’t.

That’s not the way it works. If you try to get better by yourself you will fail. Please read that last sentence again if you need to.

You need friends.

Family. And professionals who know what the heck they’re doing.

These are your golden tickets. But they can’t help you if you don’t tell them what’s going on.

So I’m running out of room here, and I know I promised I’d keep it short. But I lied. Still, maybe when you see

these words, they will find you at just the right time. Maybe you’ll be having a terrible day.

Maybe you’ll be a mess.

Maybe you were contemplating doing something infinitely stupid to yourself when you came across these

poorly written paragraphs. Maybe you actually read this all the way through.

If you did, I hope you know that this guy is your friend. This faceless stranger stayed up into the middle of the night writing you this

letter because he loves you.

But then, my words don’t mean much.

Yours mean everything.

So share them. Tell someone how you feel.

If you can’t find anyone, I know a hick who is ready to listen.

KNOW your status MANAGE your health LIVE your best life

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A6 August 19, 2020

John Soules Foods breaks ground in Valley Courtesy of Chambers County Development Authority After several delays due to COVID-19, John Soules Foods, the City of Valley and the Chambers County Development Authority (CCDA) are proud to announce that construction on the new John Soules Foods facility in Valley, Alabama has begun.

Adam White has been named the Maintenance Manager for this location, John Soules Foods announced.

Since his hire, White has been working closely with the City of Valley and the CCDA

to coordinate the logistics of construction. “We are pleased to have Adam join the team,� said Tom Ellis, chief operating officer of John Soules Foods. “Adam brings valuable experience and proven ability to lead our Valley, Alabama operations for years to come.�

John Soules Foods operation in Valley will be broken into three phases. Phase one includes 210 full-time jobs and $90 million in capital investment.

This investment will be for renovations at the current facility, construction of additional buildings on site, wastewater treatment

and placement of two cook lines.

The planned second phase is projected to be a $39 million investment, adding two new cook lines and an additional 200 new full-time employees.

The third and final phase will result in 100 new employees, $22 million dollars in capital investment and the addition of one final cook line, making a total of five cook lines.

When all phases are complete, this facility will have the capability to produce over 200 million pounds of fully cooked beef and chicken products annually.

Construction is expected to take about 13

CARES Act to provide funds to cattle producers Courtesy of Alabama Cattleman's Association Gov. Kay Ivey recently approved the Alabama Agriculture Stabilization Program, to much applause from the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association (ACA).

The approved program grants the beef cattle industry $10.5 million, which is part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. Anyone who sold cattle from April 16 through May 15 is eligible to receive assistance.

The ACA helped to create the Alabama Agriculture Stabilization Program alongside the Department of Agriculture and Industries. “We are appreciative of Gov. Ivey’s continued support and recognition of the im-

portance of Alabama’s beef cattle industry,� said ACA President Larry Reeves. “Economic stability is imperative for cattlemen, and these funds will help alleviate the financial stresses incurred from this ongoing pandemic.�

Cattelmen will provide the state with a sales receipt, which should specify the amount of cattle, when they were sold and the weight of the cattle. “Those approved will receive $69/head for calves weighing less than 600 pounds, $106/head for cattle 601-900 pounds and $181/head for cattle over 900 pounds,� the release said. “Additionally, $1.5 million have been awarded as a grant program for existing small meat processors in the state to

increase slaughter capacity.�

The release said that a study found that there has been a total $13.6 billion loss to the cattle industry. “Cattle producers across the state have suffered tremendous economic impact during the COVID-19 pandemic,� said Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate. “To the point it threatens the future of their operations.

This supplemental program issued by Gov. Kay Ivey will fill a void left by the CFAP program to provide financial security for cattlemen in the state.�

More information can be provided by Alabama Cattlemen’s Association (334-265-1867).

months with operations planned to commence in the summer of 2021.

Batson-Cook Construction was awarded the first contract for the Valley project. Batson Cook, located in West Point, Georgia, has a vast portfolio of project ranging from education and healthcare to industrial, office and beyond. “We are grateful for the opportunity to be working with John Soules Foods and appreciate their commitment to investing in our local economy� said Paul Meadows, Batson-Cook’s senior vice president and general manager.

About John Soules

Foods John Soules Foods was established in 1975 and is the nation's leading formulator, manufacturer and marketer of ready-to-cook and fully cooked beef and chicken products as well as fully cooked breaded chicken. John Soules Foods’ operations are based in Tyler, TX, with production facilities in Tyler, TX, Gainesville, GA, and now Valley, AL. The company’s products are sold under the John Soules Foods and ProView brands as well as a select number of private label brands for the country’s premier retailers. For more information about John

Soules Foods and its products, visit www. johnsoulesfoods.com.

About Batson-Cook Construction Batson-Cook Construction, founded in 1915, builds a wide range of commercial projects for healthcare, multi-family, office, education and private development clients throughout the Southeast. We have the heart of a family-owned general contractor with the reach of a global construction firm. We build with passion. We operate with integrity.

For more information, visit www.batson-cook. com.

Farmers Federation Welcomes State Coronavirus Relief Funds For Agriculture Courtesy of Jeff Helms Alabama Farmers Federation The Alabama Farmers Federation welcomed today’s announcement from Gov. Kay Ivey that $26 million will be going to farmers, ranchers and agricultural operations hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. “We appreciate Gov. Ivey and Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate working with our members and other stakeholders to assess losses resulting from market disruption and identify urgent needs for stabilizing Alabama’s agricultural economy,� said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “The Federation’s staff, county leaders and state commodity committees were instrumental in developing a plan that addresses farmers’ immediate needs while strengthening agricultural infrastructure for the future.�

The Alabama Agricultural Stabilization Program package includes: • Direct Payment Business Stabilization

Grants to Cattle Producers — $10.5 million • Meat Processing Plant Reimbursement Program — $1.5 million • Poultry Farmer Stabilization Grant Program — $4 million • Catfish Processor Reimbursement Program — $500,000 • Fruit & Vegetable Processor Reimbursement Program — $500,000 • State Supplemental Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) Grants — $8 million • Nursery Grower Reimbursement Program — $1 million The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) will administer assistance programs for farmers and agribusinesses.

Application information and deadlines will be announced by the department soon. Relief payments will be issued through the Alabama Department of Revenue. Registration with the State of Alabama Accounting and Resource System (STAARS) may be required for eligible producers

and processors to receive payment. “We will continue to work closely with Commissioner Pate and the Department of Revenue to provide details on how to apply for assistance as soon as they become available,�

Parnell said. “Gov. Ivey and the commissioner are committed to making this process as fast and simple as possible for our farmers.�

The Alabama Agricultural Assistance Package is made possible by the Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which provided the state more than $1.8 billion to offset public and private costs associated with the pandemic.

The Federation was joined by the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Alabama Poultry & Egg Association, Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, Alabama Agribusiness Council and numerous individuals and businesses in submitting funding requests for the governor’s consideration.

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Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

UPCOMING EVENTS • Sept. 5 - Storybook Farms Kentucky Derby Day starting at 2 p.m.

Enhance menus with fresh vegetables and fruits before the end of season ANN CIPPERLY

Southern

Hospitality

B

efore fresh summer produce comes to an end, include more vegetables and fruits in menus for the coming week. Markets will continue to feature the last produce of the season a few weeks longer. Susan Forbes at O Grows Farmers Market said fresh corn and peaches, along with other products, will be available for the next couple weeks until the market ends the last Tuesday of this month.

Farm fresh produce provides more nutrients and a fresher taste than produce shipped from out of state. Most of us are trying to stay

healthy these days and adding fresh produce will boost the immune system. Serve fresh fruit with cookies and milk for after school snacks. See other ideas for after school in the no cook snacks listed below.

My family always had gardens, which I miss. My parents grew heirloom tomatoes and always provided us with plenty. I remember the taste of garden-fresh green beans and new potatoes that is not the same as those that come from the grocery store.

We don’t have a good place for a garden with all the towering

trees around our home, although we do plant herbs in pots. I feel fortunate that we have the local farmers markets.

Most summer vegetables are best when simply prepared and seasoned. These days I oven roast most fresh vegetables, which is a quick and easy method.

After coming back from a market, I get the vegetables cooking while they are fresh.

Squash is sliced and placed on a cookie sheet with a rim.

Whole okra with the stems removed goes on the other side, and wedges of sweet onions are placed in the center.

After a drizzle of

Alabama Restaurant Week happening right now Courtesy of Alabama Tourism Alabama Restaurant Week showcases the appreciation our locals and visitors share for Alabama restaurants and their staff. This culinary event unites Alabama's diverse range of cuisine in a 10-day celebration held Aug. 14-23, 2020, throughout the state.

Many of our Alabama restaurants have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pan-

demic, so we encourage everyone, both visitors and locals alike, to show their support for Alabama’s restaurants during Alabama Restaurant Week.

Restaurants are the places where we don’t just eat, but often celebrate our most cherished memories.

They are there for us on first dates, anniversaries, birthdays, gatherings of family and friends, special occasions, memorable vacations or just in

times we needed a little comfort. Over the past several months, they've demonstrated significant support for their employees and communities while simultaneously facing operational and financial challenges.

Now, more than ever, they need our support.

Patrons can show support in a variety of ways.

Many Alabama restaurants have See RESTAURANT, page A9

Serve fresh fruits and vegetables before the bounty of summer ends. Creole corn makes an attractive presentation when served in scooped out whole tomatoes.

Green beans with brown butter sauce are served alongside the stuffed tomatoes for flavorful vegetable dishes to enhance end of summer meals. Check out other vegetable dishes as well as fruit ideas for after school snacks.

extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkling of sea salt, the pan goes into the oven. Depending on what else I am cooking, I will oven roast at 350 or 375 for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then I check to see if it’s done.

While fresh fruits are wonderful by themselves, they become sublime when baked in pastry or cakes or

simply mixed with a dressing to bring out their flavors. Create a special treat for your family while fresh fruit is at its peak flavor.

The first time I experimented making the Fresh Peach Cake, I was looking for a dessert with peaches to take to a supper club dinner. Instead of baking a cake mix, I decided to make a Cream

Cheese Pound Cake and bake it in layers. It made a tall cake.

The cake turned out well and was so popular that I have promised to make it again.

I think it would work just as well with a cake mix or your favorite recipe for yellow cake.

Some of the juice from the peach filling soaked See CIPPERLY, page A10

Theaters and COVID: staying safe

By Hannah Lester hlester@opelikaobserver. com

Theaters are proceeding in an age of social distancing and mandatory mask ordinances.

Around Lee County, performances have been canceled altogether or held outside for social distancing.

Opelika Theatre Compa-ny: The Opelika Theatre company was preparing for a performance in May, The Addams Family Jr., but had to reschedule due to the

coronavirus.

“I have a direction team composed of seven very qualified individuals, and we collectively decided we could do zoom meetings online several days a week, rehearsing lines, choreography and music,” said Marty Moore, one of the founders of OTC. “Also by doing zoom it kept the kids engaged with each so they wouldn’t miss their friends too much. We also conducted face time calls and one-on-one coaching sessions to help the cast develop their characters.”

Despite that, the

performance was still rescheduled.

“We actually just started back rehearsals this month,” said Abby Freeman, a member of the creative team for OTC. Things aren’t too different than they were in March, so the participants have to wear masks and make sure they are safe around one another, even during practices.

“Everyone is wearing masks at rehearsals, which is hard, especially for children,” Freeman said.

See THEATER, page A9

A8 August 19, 2020

'Summer Showcase' provides venue for local talent last Saturday

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

A9 August 19, 2020

Bonnie Plants breaks ground for new headquarters

RESTAURANT>> FROM A7

Photo by Will Fairless/Opelika Observer Bonnie Plants held a groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday for its new corporate headquarters to be located at 2801 Interstate Drive in Opelika. Bonnie, the number one live vegetable and herb brand in the country, is strengthening its business relationship with the city of Opelika and Auburn University. Mike Sutterer, President and CEO of Bonnie Plants, said, "We are literally laying the foundation for the next 100 years of growth. I absolutely could not think of a better place to have our headquarters located."

Pictured, from left: Sutterer, Mayor Gary Fuller, David Scott (who formerly owned the land on which Bonnie is building its headquarters), Ward 5 City Councilman David Canon and City Council President Eddie Smith.

THEATER>> FROM A7 Not all cast members, the production is for children, returned when practices began again in August, she said.

“It’s actually really hard,” Freeman said.

“We lost unfortunately a lot of our cast members, which we totally understood.”

OTC filled the roles that were lost and is preparing for the show, which involves re-blocking some scenes to make them safer, she said.

“Doing whatever we can to make it work and still be safe,” Freeman said.

The Company held a showcase on Saturday for all types of performers, which was held outdoors for a safer setting. “[Two direction team members] pointed out it would be great for everyone who had ever been involved with OTC, or anyone who wanted to get involved with OTC to come together and showcase their talents,” Moore said. “… And to also hold the Showcase outside and make it a concert on the grounds - people could bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, etc. and enjoy entertainment and food

vendors while social distancing.”

Auburn Area Community Theatre: The Auburn Area Community Theatre had just finished a production of High School Musical in February when the pandemic blew in full force.

“We completed it and we honored our seniors and we did our little thank you’s at the end of the last show and it was lovely and it was just the very next week that everything shut down,” said Andrea Holliday, artistic director for the AACT. The sales from the production helped buoy AACT through the pandemic, she said.

The theatre had another production scheduled for May, and at the time, no one was certain how long the pandemic would last.

“When everything shut down, we had a couple of rehearsals online and everyone was so shell-shocked,” Holliday said. “We didn’t know whether to continue rehearsing, that, is this going to be over by May?” There is some sense of returned normalcy and the theatre just recently held a performance at the Kreher Nature Pre-

serve and Nature Center.

“I think it was brilliant,” Holliday said. “It was brilliant because we limited the audience groups to ten people that were unrelated, but if you wanted to buy the whole group, you could buy the whole group.”

The performance was a walk through the preserve, with a tour guide, where audience members would come up to the actors and actresses.

For future performances, AACT is considering safety measures like asking cast members to apply makeup at home, not sharing dressing rooms and grouping audience members by family, Holliday said.

“We chose to cancel our children’s camps this summer, we didn’t think it was practical to enforce the masking and the distancing on kids,” she said.

The next children’s performance will actually be based on the coronavirus pandemic, Holliday said.

“It’s taken from monologues that children wrote about their own experiences being alone and isolated in this whole new world that we live in,” she said.

The entire show, however, will be remote from the practices to the performance itself.

COVID-19 SAFETY PLAN In view of the rapidly spreading COVID-19 (Corona) virus, we are taking measures to protect our elderly and immunocompromised customers.

The lobby will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with curbside and drive thru services beting offered from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

CALL OR TEXT US AND LET US KNOW WHAT YOU NEED. WE WILL SHOP FOR YOU.

Stay well friends and thanks for shopping with us!

We wouldnʼt be here without you all!

HOURS: 8 A.M. TO 6 P.M. MONDAY TO FRIDAY

opened their dining rooms to the public with additional precautions in place to keep you and your loved ones safe. However, if you are not comfortable with dining in, we encourage you to take advantage of takeout, curbside pick-up and delivery options so you can continue to satisfy the cravings of some of your favorite dishes.

If possible, be sure to order directly from the restaurant, rather than third-party delivery services. This will not only eliminate fees, but it will also allow you to stay up-to-date on any seasonal menu offerings and specials.

The Alabama Tourism Department is encouraging all local destination marketing organizations in the state to join us in promoting Alabama Restaurant Week.

There are several ways help your local

restaurants receive extra business through this promotion at no cost to you.

In this year’s promotion, we are encouraging everyone to visit an Alabama restaurant at least twice during the 10-day period by dining in, carrying out or ordering take out. There is no requirement for any restrictions or special requirements for restaurants.

Local DMOs are encouraged to: 1) Contact their local news outlets and remind them of them of Alabama Restaurant Week promotion 2) Link to the Alabama Restaurant Week website www. alabamarestaurantweek.com or create their own.

3) Promote on their social media channels.

4) Encourage all restaurants to make sure they have their location page on our database through Partner Portal partners.alabama.travel so their restaurant

will show up on the Alabama Restaurant Week location map.

If their restaurant is already listed, make sure information is current. This simple task will ensure their location listing in on our website.

5) Participating restaurants, and their DMO, CVB, Chamber, are more than welcome to download assets from the press kit in our resource center. drive. google.com/drive/ folders/1h1051i3uMVINdbOT0ijZ1H9fXY_e8M9d No deed is too small, and every little bit helps. Show your support and appreciation by eating out or taking out often while traveling in the state during Alabama Restaurant Week.

Not sure where to start? Check out the 100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama. To learn more about Alabama Restaurant Week, visit alabama.travel/ alabama-restaurant-week/.

GENUINE LEATHER BELTS

Made in Alabama!

LOOK FOR A NEW FIND EACH WEEK! 334-745-3221 • ANGELSANTIQUEANDFLEAMALL.COM 900 COLUMBUS PKWY

A10 August 19, 2020

CIPPERLY>> FROM A7 into the cake, making it super moist.

As you clip recipes from the column each week, I hope they will become favorites at your home and create happy memories of good times around the table with your family.

RECIPES FROZEN FRUIT CUPCAKES Jenny Clary These are good to have in the freezer for after school snacks.

1 small lemon 2 cups buttermilk ½ cup sugar 1/8 tsp. salt 2 cups assorted fresh fruit (strawberries, peaches, blueberries, raspberries, bananas) About 3 hours before serving or early in the day: Line 12 muffin pan cups with fluted paper baking liners.

In a large bowl, grate peel from lemon; mix buttermilk, sugar and salt and lemon rind; gently stir in 1 ¼ cups of fruit.

Spoon mixture into muffin cups (make sure that each cup has pieces of fruit).

Cover and freeze until firm; to serve peel off paper baking liners.

PEACH FIZZ Jenny Clary This is a refreshing summertime drink.

1 pint fresh chopped peaches, sweetened 1½ cups cold pineapple juice 1 Tbsp. lemon or lime juice 2 cups ice cubes 1 cup cold ginger ale Place fresh peaches in a blender; add pineapple juice and lime juice.

Blend until peaches are broken up. Add ice and blend to a thick icy consistency. Add ginger ale and blend. Makes 6 cups.

CREOLE CORN Peggy Dyar Makes an attractive presentation stuffed in whole tomatoes.

2 slices bacon 1 medium onion, sliced and separated into rings 1 medium green pepper, seeded and chopped into small chunks 2 ½ cups chopped fresh tomatoes 2 cups fresh corn cut from cob 1 small bay leaf ½ tsp. salt 1/8 tsp. black pepper 1 tsp. sugar Fry bacon until crisp; remove from skillet, reserving drippings. Drain bacon on paper towels and crumble. Add onion and green pepper to bacon drippings (or

Now that children are in school, here are a few suggestions for serving fresh fruits for afternoon snacks. Be sure to check Jenny Clary’s recipe for Frozen Fruit Cupcakes. They go together quickly and are refreshing on hot afternoons.

No-Cook Fruit Desserts for After School Snacks

olive oil); cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until crisp-tender.

Add tomatoes and bay leaf to onion mixture and simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in corn; simmer 10 minutes. Discard bay leaf; stir in salt, pepper, sugar and crumbled bacon. Makes 6 to 8 servings.

GREEN BEANS IN BROWN BUTTER SAUCE Peggy Dyar 3 Tbsp. butter 1 garlic clove, minced 1 lb. fresh green beans, washed and trimmed 1 small sweet onion, sliced ½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. cracked pepper Place butter in a 2-cup glass-measuring cup; cover with plastic wrap. Microwave at high for 1 ½ to 2 minutes or until butter begins to brown. Remove from microwave; immediately add minced garlic.

Place green beans, onion, and 3 Tbsp. water in a microwave-safe bowl.

Cover bowl tightly with plastic wrap, folding back a small edge to allow steam to escape. *Microwave at high for 4 to 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender; drain. Toss together hot beans, brown butter mixture and salt; sprinkle with cracked pepper. *Microwave cooking times vary with ovens. Test beans after about 3 minutes and cook to desired tenderness.

GREEN TOMATO CASSEROLE Carolyn Dudley 5-6 green tomatoes Salt and pepper to taste 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese 1 stick butter Cracker crumbs Remove stems and core from tomatoes; cut tomatoes into thin slices. Butter casserole dish. Layer half of tomatoes in casserole dish, and sprinkle with salt, pepper and ½ cup

• Serve an assortment of fresh fruit with a bowl of yogurt for dipping.

• Place a large chocolate chip or sugar cookie on a dessert place (can lightly warm cookie in microwave, if desired). Top with a scoop of ice cream and spoon assorted fresh fruit over ice cream. Looks like an individual tart.

cheese; dot with half the butter. Repeat layers. Cover with cracker crumbs. Dot with remaining butter. Cover dish and bake at 400 degrees for 40 to 45 minutes.

TOMATO, GOAT CHEESE AND ONION TART JoAnne Woodall 9-inch piecrust 3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 large onion, thinly sliced Salt and pepper 6 oz. (1 1/3 cups) goat cheese crumbles, mild soft variety 1 lb. plum tomatoes, thinly sliced crosswise Fresh basil leaves for garnish Preheat oven 375 degrees. Bake piecrust in a 9-inch tart pan or pie plate; cool.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in heavy skillet; sauté onion; season with salt and black pepper.

Preheat broiler.

Spread onion in baked shell, then add 1 cup goat cheese.

Arrange tomatoes in concentric circle over cheese; sprinkle with remaining cheese.

Salt and pepper to taste; drizzle with remaining olive oil.

Cover edges of crust with foil so it does not over brown.

Place tart on baking sheet; broil about 7 inches from heat until cheese starts to brown slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serves 6 to 8 as a first course or 4 as a main course.

FRESH PEACH SAUCE FOR POUND CAKE AND ICE CREAM 2 Tbsp. butter 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 2 cups peeled peach slices (about 4 medium peaches) 1/4 tsp. cinnamon 4 slices pound cake Vanilla ice cream Melt butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add brown sugar, peaches and cinnamon, tossing slightly to coat.

Cook peaches until softened and juices are released, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.

If desired, toast pound cake slices in

• Enhance storebought pound cakes and angel food cakes with ice cream or whipped cream and generous amounts of fresh fruit.

• Create festive and colorful parfaits by layering fresh fruit in a pretty glass with ice cream, sorbet, sherbet or Greek yogurt.

• Make a fondue by melting dark or white

chocolate in the microwave and thinning with cream. Surround with assorted fresh fruit.

• Thaw phyllo tart shells and fill with sweetened whipped cream or softened, lightly sweetened cream cheese. Top with fresh fruits for tiny tarts.

• Leave strawberries whole with stems.

toaster until warm and slightly golden, about 2 minutes.

Serve warm peaches over pound cake, and top with scoops of ice cream.

cheese, softened 3 sticks butter, softened 3 cups sugar 3 cups all-purpose flour 6 eggs 2 tsp. vanilla Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy.

Add sugar and continue beating.

Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.

Gradually add flour, which has been sifted. Pour batter into three cake pans coated with nonstick spray. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After 10 minutes remove from pans. Cool.

Filling: 1½ cups sugar 4 Tbsp. cornstarch ¼ cup water 4 cups sliced peaches Combine sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan. Add water and peaches. Heat and stir until sauce is thickened. Cool.

Topping: 2 cups heavy cream ½ cup sugar Beat cream until stiff.

Assembly Place one cake layer on plate. Spread with half of cooled peaches. Top with another cake layer, and top with remaining peaches. Add third layer. Cover cake with whipped cream.

If desired, garnish with peach slices and fresh mint. Store in refrigerator until ready to serve.

OVEN ROASTED YELLOW SQUASH AND ONIONS Line a cookie sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Slice squash onto cookie sheet and cut a sweet onion or two into wedges. Drizzle with olive oil; toss to coat. Sprinkle sea salt or kosher salt over squash. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes or until squash is tender and onion begins to brown.

SUSAN’S MEXICAN STREET CORN 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema 1/2 cup finely crumbled Cotija or feta cheese, plus more for serving 1/2 tsp. ancho or guajillo chili powder, plus more for serving 1 medium clove garlic, finely minced (about 1 teaspoon) 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro leaves and tender stems 4 ears shucked corn 1 lime, cut into wedges Prepare grill. Combine mayonnaise, sour cream or crema, cheese, chili powder, garlic, and cilantro in a large bowl.

Stir until homogeneous and set aside.

When grill is hot, place corn directly over hot side of grill and cook, rotating occasionally, until cooked through and charred in spots on all sides, about 8 minutes total.

Transfer corn to bowl with cheese mixture and use a large spoon to evenly coat corn on all sides with mixture. Sprinkle with extra cheese and chili powder and serve immediately with lime wedges.

FRESH PEACH CAKE Cake: Bake 1 box butter flavor cake mix into three layers or prepare the Cream Cheese Pound cake and bake in three layers.

Cream Cheese Pound Cake: 8 oz. pkg. cream

GLAZED PEACH PIE 4 cups fresh peaches ¾ cup water 1 cup sugar 3 Tbsp. cornstarch 1 Tbsp. lemon juice 1 Tbsp. butter Baked pie shell Whipped cream Mash 1 cup of the peaches. Add water and cook 4 minutes.

Combine sugar and cornstarch; add to mixture. Cook until thick and clear; add lemon juice and butter.

Arrange remaining sliced peaches in baked shell. Pour glaze over peaches.

Chill.

Top slices with whipped cream and

Place on a platter with bowls of sour cream and brown sugar. Dip berries in sour cream and then in brown sugar for a yummy taste treat.

• Arrange fresh fruits with mild flavored cheeses. Serve with crackers or ginger snaps.

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

additional slices of peaches.

PEACH CHEESECAKE TARTS Baked tart shells 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened 1 can sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated) 1/3 cup lemon juice 1 tsp. vanilla 4 fresh peaches, sliced ½ cup apricot preserves 2 Tbsp. sugar Whipped cream Beat cream cheese; add condensed milk and lemon juice and continue beating until smooth.

Place in tart shells and chill.

Place sliced peaches on top of filling. Continue preserves and sugar; heat until melted. Pour over peaches. Top with whipped cream.

FRESH VEGETABLE SOUP Add any other fresh vegetables desired 4 Tbsp. olive oil 2 cups chopped onions 2 Tbsp. finely minced garlic Salt and pepper to taste 2 cups carrots, peeled and sliced 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes 2 cups fresh green beans, broken into 3/4inch pieces 2 quarts chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups peeled, seeded and chopped tomatoes 2 ears corn, kernels removed 1/4 cup packed, chopped fresh parsley leaves, optional 1 to 2 tsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice Heat olive oil in large stockpot over medium-low heat. Add onion, garlic and a pinch of salt; cook until they begin to soften, about 7 to 8 minutes. Add carrots, potatoes, and green beans and continue to cook for 4 to 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add stock, increase heat to high, and bring to a simmer. Once simmering, add tomatoes, corn kernels and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until the vegetables are fork tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from heat and add parsley and lemon juice. Season to taste with additional salt.

A11 August 19, 2020

A

name like Numbers scares a lot of people off. To them, it is suggestive of repetitive lists, irrelevant facts, and boring details.

That’s too bad, because the book of Numbers, though not without its challenges, is as enriching as it is enlightening.

Numbers is a critical part of the Pentateuch narrative. It picks up the story line from Exodus and carries it to Israel’s encampment on the brink of the promised land. If we didn’t have Numbers, we’d go straight from Mt. Sinai to Moses’ message to Israel on the plains of

Church Calendar • Church of Christ at Cunningham - meeting at their building at 9:30 a.m. for Bible class, 10:30 a.m. for worship, 5 p.m. for evening worship and 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays.

• First Baptist Church Of Opelika - continuing online streaming services; “FBCO will be deliberate but diligent as we begin to meet in person again.”

“I would project that a FBCO’s return to corporate worship and ministry opportunities will be strategic.”

• St. Marys Catholic Church/ St. Michael’s Church SMCC is having Daily Mass on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 8 a.m. and on weekends they are distributing holy Communion on Sunday's from 9:30 to 11 a.m. A Mass is also held on Sunday's at 12:30 p.m. at St. Michael's Church over in Auburn. For more information people can call the office at 334-749-8359 or go to the parish website: stmarysopelika.org.

• Trinity United Methodist Church Opelika Trinity UMC has online worship at 10 a.m. streaming on Facebook, YouTube and their website, www.tumcopelika. org.

• Union Grove Baptist Church In-person gathering with social distancing.

Masks are available.

Sunday worship is at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Wednesday worship is at 6:30 p.m.

Services are streamed live on Facebook - UGBChurch

Counting on God Moab (Deuteronomy) and miss out on almost all of the rich, though troubled, history of the nation’s wilderness experience.

It’s called Numbers because of the numbering that take place at the beginning and toward the end of the book that is central to its purpose. The first census involves the generation that left Egypt, while the second is of those who grew up or were born in the wilderness.

Numbers shows the exodus generation in all their unfaithfulness and their consequent death in the desert. The wilderness generation

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

represents the people of hope. They are the people Moses speaks to in Deuteronomy and who cross over the Jordan into Canaan under Joshua’s leadership.

Throughout it all, Numbers shows God remaining faithful in

His promise to bless Israel and the world. The censuses demonstrate this in no uncertain terms. Both numbered only the men of fighting age because the conquest of Canaan was in view. In both censuses, such men numbered over 600,000.

That would put Israel’s population in the neighborhood of between 2 to 3 million. Just as He had promised, God was making Abraham’s descendants like the stars of the sky and the sand on the seashore. The censuses bear witness of God’s power to bless abundantly.

And while it’s true that the numbering

ABOUT BRUCE GREEN gave structure and helped bring unity and order out of potential chaos, the censuses also provided Israel with a clear sense of identity. Each Israelite understood how he or she related to their tribe, the tribe to the nation, the nation to the tabernacle and all of it to God (Allen). They understood they were part of something much bigger than themselves.

The numbers in Numbers are so much more than numbers! They remind us that we can always count on God. You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: atasteofgracewithbrucegreen.com.

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

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

Verse of the Week For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father."

Romans 8:15

Church Directory APOSTOLIC HOLINESS God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 HIghland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672 True Deliverance Holiness Church 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700 BAPTIST Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506

ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 2312 Center Drive Unit D 334-758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta 334-742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy 334-749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. 334-749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. 334-745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy 334-749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B 706-4421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. 334-444-5148 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave 334-742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. 334-745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd 334-745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. 334-745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. 334-745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. 334-742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr 334-749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. 334-887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika 314 S. 9th St. 334-745-6143

Green Chapel Missionary Baptist 390 Lee Road 106, Auburn (334) 749-4184 Lakeview Baptist Church 1600 E. Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-7094 Pepperell Baptist 2702 2nd Ave., Opelika 334-745-3108 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika 334-745-4608 Union Grove Baptist Church 4009 Lee Road 391, Opelika 334-749-0461

Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181 COMMUNITY OUTREACH Changing Hearts of Destiny Ministry 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700

5165 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-745-4755 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Church At Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy., Opelika 334-524-9148 St. Ellis Full Gospel Church 5267 US Hwy 80W, Opelika 334-298-4319 PRESBYTERIAN Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Road, Opelika 334-745-4889

CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at

METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800 Beulah United Methodist Church

First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. 334-745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact 709 Avenue E 334-741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. 334-703-3333 Friendship Missionary Baptist 432 Maple Avenue 334-742-0105 Greater Peace Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave. 334-749-9487 Heritage Baptist Church 1103 Glenn St. 334-363-8943 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. 334-745-2905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 - 334-745-3600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy 334-745-5340 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd 334-749-2773 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. 334-745-3224 Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd 334-741-7770 BUDDHIST Buddha Heart Village 3170 Sandhill Rd. 334-821-7238 CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. 334-749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy 334-742-9721 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. 334-745-6015 CHURCH OF GOD

Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd 334-749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place 334-749-6432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court 334-745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. 334-749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. 334-745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. 334-826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. 334-742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A 334-745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 334-745-0460 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 8685 AL Hwy. 51 334-749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. 334-745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. 334-745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy 334-745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 334-7418675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd 334-745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. 334-745-3421

SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. 334-749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. 334-749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd 334-7495386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 334-745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. 334-745-0832 Fellowship Bible Church 2202 Hamilton Rd 334-749-1445 Ferguson Chapel Church 310 S. 4th St. 334-745-2913 First Assembly of God Church 510 Simmons St. 334- 749-3722 Garden of Gethsemane Fellowship 915 Old Columbus Rd #745-2686 Grace Heritage Church Opelika #559-0846 Holy Deliverance Church 831 S. Railroad 334-749-5682 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. 334-737-1488 Living Way Ministries 1100 Old Columbus Rd 334-749-6241 Move of God Fellowship Church 1119 Old Columbus Rd 334-7411006 Connect Church 2900 Waverly Pkwy 334-749-3916 New Life Christian Center 2051 West Point Pkwy 334-741-7373 New Life Independent Church 10 Meadowview Estates Trailer 334-741-9001 Opelika’s First Seventh Day 2011 Columbus Pkwy 334-737-3222 Power of Praise, Inc. Church 3811 Marvyn Pkwy 334-745-6136 Shady Grove Christian Church West Point Hwy 334-745-7770

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Email: editor@opelika observer.com Call: 334-749-8003

A12 August 19, 2020

OBITUARIES Archie Reach Mr. Archie Reach, 79, of Opelika passed away Aug. 11 at EAMC. A graveside service was held 2 p.m. on Aug. 14 at Garden Hills Cemetery, with visitation beginning at noon at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

Mr. Reach was retired from the Army National Guard with over 20 years of service, and also from the Opelika Fire Dept, during this time he received multiple awards of appreciation for his service. He continued to work with the Lee County EMA part time up until his death. He was also responsible with others for starting he Beulah Volunteer Fire Department.

He was a loving father to his daughter, Renee and a friend and mentor to many. He was a very special man and loved by all who knew him.

Mr. Reach is survived by his daughter Renee Reach (Leigh); brothers Joe Reach, Jack Reach; grandchildren: RiLeigh; girlfriend: Sharon Wilson; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Charles E. Futral, Sr. Charles E. Futral, Sr., Age 80, a life-long resident of Opelika, went to Heaven Tuesday afternoon while resting in his home that he loved.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Edwin Futral, mother, Pauline E(Whatley) Futral, sister, Margaret L. (Futral) Ford, all of Opelika; nephew, Mike McLain, of Phenix City, Alabama and niece, MaryAnn (Wall) Benton, Eclectic, Alabama.

Survivors are sisters: Frances (Charles) McLain, of Phenix City, and Patricia (Doug) Watson, of Auburn. A loving and devoted single father of 5 children, daughter, Beth (Dann) Marks of Dayton, Tennessee, daughter, Cynthia Pettus of Mt. Holly, North Carolina; son, Charles Futral, Jr., and son, Chris Futral, both of Opelika; and daughter, Angela (Robert) Werner, of Mt. Holly, 15 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. “Mr. Bugman� was

known and loved by all who knew him. He will always be remembered for his love for his family and never knowing a stranger.

Visitation with the family was held Aug. 12, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Memorial services were held at the Jeffcoat-Trant Chapel with Dr. Rusty Sowell officiating, on Aug. 13, at 10 a.m.

Funeral was directed by Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home.

William J. Lewis, III "Big Dawg" William J. Lewis, III of Opelika, Alabama was born in Montgomery, Alabama on December 24, 1966 and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on Aug. 12, 2020. He was 53 years old.

Jay was a heavy equipment operator for Vulcan Materials and drove a truck for M & M Trucking where he got the handle "Big Dawg." He was a proud husband, father, and grandfather. He was special to his grandkids lives and was known for telling a good joke.

He was preceded in

death by his father, William Jackson Lewis, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Teresa L. Lewis; children, Dalton, Shelby, Brian Aaron, Jordynn, and London; parents, Wally and Toneia Young; and step-mother, Debbie Lewis; brother, Wally Young, III (Katie); sisters, Valencia Reeves, Amanda Barbaree (Nic), Lisa Davis (Mike), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members.

Visitation was held in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home on Aug. 15, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.

Graveside service was held on Aug. 15, at 3:30 p.m. at Garden Hills Cemetery with Brother, Danny Dean officiating.

Emma Jean Burdette Emma Jean Burdette of Opelika, Alabama was born in Fairfax, Alabama on January 3, 1935 and passed away in Clay County Nursing Home on Aug. 11, 2020. She was 85 years old.

She was a faithful member of Trinity United Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph D. Burdette.

She is survived by her children, Norman Burdette (Margaret), Myra B. Ivey, Dena B. Jones (Keith), Kayron B. Strother (Brad); grandchildren, Nathan Ivey, Benjamin Ivey, Amberly Fellows (Brandon), Erin Tomlin (Ryan), Mary Margaret Templeton (Jedd), Seth Jones (Amanda), Sarah Crenshaw (Matt), Micah Kreil (Jared), Nadine Strother, Joseph Strother, and Hannah Strother; 16 great grandchildren.

Graveside service was held in Garden Hills Cemetery on Aug. 14, at 1 p.m. with Pastor Keith Jones officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Trinity United Methodist Church (800 2nd Ave. Opelika, AL. 36801.)

Mr. John Alexander Mr. John Alexander “Alex� Balint, a resi-

dent of Opelika, passed away on Aug. 12, 2020 at the age of 35.

Mr. Balint was born in Alexander City, Alabama on May 12, 1985. He graduated from Horseshoe Bend High School in Newsite, Alabama. He was a roofer and HVAC installer until he became disabled.

Mr. Balint is preceded in death by his grandmother Roberta Bonne’t. His grandfather, Hugh Marlin Boyd and his uncle, Richard Boyd.

Mr. Balint is survived by his wife, Laura Balint; children: Kendric McIntire, Autumn McIntire, Kaylei Tucker, Austin, and Jeffery Butler; sister, Misty Coon (Brannon); brother, Josh Balint (Keisha); father, John Balint (Susan); mother, Paronda Boyd (Mirenda): nieces and nephews: Elaina Patterson, Jaiden Balint, Greyson Balint, and Harper Coon.

A memorial will be held to celebrate the life of Alex at a later date.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Funeral Home and Crematory.

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A13 August 19, 2020

EAMC gives update on COVID-19 statistics Courtesy of EAMC DOCTORS WEIGH IN ON COVID-19 FIRST FIVE MONTHS Last Friday, EAMC summarized the first five months since EAMC received its first patient with COVID-19. Here’s a recap: • On April 11, EAMC reached its first peak with 54 hospitalized patients • For three straight days in early April, EAMC had 22 COVID patients on ventilators.

• By May 23, EAMC was down to 15 COVID hospitalizations, and just one on a ventilator.

• Between May 4 – July 4, EAMC averaged 21.48 COVID patients a day.

• On 54 of those 62 days, EAMC had four or fewer COVID patients on ventilators.

• On July 5, EAMC’s COVID-19 census rose from 34 to 41, and peaked at 62 on July 22.

• Between July 5 – Aug. 14, EAMC averaged 45.85 COVID patients a day.

• During that time, only 10 of 41 days saw EAMC with a daily COVID census under 40.

“After a high number of early cases requir-

ing hospitalization, the statewide Safe-AtHome order resulted in a marked decrease in our numbers to much more manageable levels,” Michael Roberts, M.D., hospitalist and EAMC Chief of Staff stated. “Even after reopening the economy, we saw numbers of hospitalized patients maintain at a level in May and June that was much lower than our initial surge.”

Roberts explains the current resurgence. “As we get more comfortable being around one another, and as we fatigue of COVID-19 restrictions, numbers have increased again and have sustained at higher levels than we saw earlier in the pandemic.”

At EAMC, mortality levels have dropped

to almost a third what they were in March and April. "Obviously, that's great news," said Ricardo Maldonado, M.D., infectious diseases specialist at EAMC. He added that it brings with it a separate set of concerns.

“The patients we are now able to save remain sick for quite a while and spend a long time on supplemental oxygen and have multiple medical needs.

Because of the long stays associated with the sickest of the patients with COVID-19, it would not take many new cases to fill our COVID-19 medical floor and our ICU.” For perspective on the seriousness of COVID-19, Maldonado points to the CDC’s annual list of the leading causes of death in

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the U.S. “Looking at the most recent report (2017, but published last year), COVID-19 would now be the third leading cause of death. We just passed 170,000 deaths from COVID-19, while accidents accounted for 169,936 deaths in 2017. Only heart disease and cancer are higher.”

Roberts said strategies to limit the spread of COVID-19 remain the same. “Whenever possible, maintain at least 6 feet of space from people who are not from your household. When distancing is not possible, and any time you are indoors, wear a mask or cloth face covering. A simple surgical mask or multi-layer cloth face covering is adequate to decrease

dispersion of respiratory droplets and therefore decrease the risk of transmission of the virus. Wash your hands frequently or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.”

A LOOK AT THE CURRENT STATS While the average number of COVID-19 hospitalizations per day was 45.85 between July 5 – Aug. 14, calls, testing and positive cases have mostly declined as a result of the mask mandate which went into effect July 16. Here’s a look at some of the stats that stick out: • Only 2 of the past 14 weekdays have resulted in more than 500 calls—both were Mondays.

• Aug. 10 saw 143 people tested at EAMC’s drive-thru test site. That was the most of the past 13 days, but it would have been the second lowest of the

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preceding 12 days.

• In the past three weeks, the positivity rate at the EAMC drive-thru test site was a combined 13.9% (213 out of 1528). During the three weeks prior, the positivity rate was 18.5% (353 out of 1905).

“There are definitely some positive signs in here,” John Atkinson, EAMC spokesman said. “We had four days where we recorded single digits for the number of positive tests. If we could get more of those and avoid all of those high counts on Mondays, we would feel better.

We will also feel better if we don’t experience another peak in hospitalizations in the next two to three weeks as a result of school starting back. And it’s not too early to mention that our Labor Day weekend plans need to be low-key.”

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A14 August 19, 2020

COMICS

“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.” ― Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables

S On the Mark

By D. Mark Mitchell

Opelika football ready for action

T

he OHS football team travels to Millbrook Friday to play Stanhope Elmore in the season opener at 7 p.m. The game against Stanhope was scheduled after Opelika lost Calloway as their opener when Georgia opted to delay the start of fall sports by two weeks.

Opelika and Stanhope Elmore have played four times, in 2008, 2010, 2018 and 2019.

The Mustangs’ only win over the Bulldogs, 24-10, occurred in Millbrook in the first round of the AHSAA playoffs in 2010. OHS beat SHHS in the first round of the playoffs in 2008, 45-20. The two teams were region opponents the past two seasons with Opelika winning both games: 59-21 in 2018 and 38-14 last season.

This will be the first time either school has played or scrimmaged against an opponent since the end of the 2019 season. The two head coaches wanted to play a game the first week allowed by the AHSAA. Coaches, like fans, are ready for football despite the changes due to COVID 19.

OHS head coach Erik Speakman, appearing on the “On the Mark”

radio show, which airs 6 to 9 a.m. on FOX Sports the Game 910-1310, said that he was not ready to name a starting quarterback. “All four will play [in the opener]. None of them have separated from the others. It will be good to see the kids in a live football game.

That includes every player . . . nothing like playing in a real game,” Speakman said.

The Bulldogs have not been forced to stop practicing this fall, despite having a few players test positive for the coronavirus. Speakman believes his coaching staff and players have adapted to COVID-19.

“We check our players’ temp every day.

If a player has a fever they are not allowed in the indoor facility and must return home . . . I have sent a few home, but they did not have COVID-19.”

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Friday night in Millbrook. Tickets are limited and can be purchased online at www. gofan.co, NOT www. gofan.COM. GOFAN. COM is not a website.

Fans should check the site for all high school football games, including Opelika High School’s.

See SPORTS, page B5

S

Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports

Sept. 8 Lee County Board of Education Meeting will be on Zoom at 6 p.m.

Lee County High School Football Update

Editor’s Note: The Lee County High School Football Update covers Beulah, Beauregard, Smiths Station and Loachapoka high schools. D. Mark Mitchell will provide updates on Opelika High in his weekly column “On the Mark.”

By Wil Crews Sportscrews@opelikaobserver.com

For many high schools across Alabama, this week marks the start of football season. As COVID-19 has already made its presence felt on local students, doubts about the viability and safety of high school sports continue to grow. Still, the lifeblood of the south will carry on – for now.

Here’s what we know about week one of Lee County high school

football.

Beulah High School: The Beulah Bobcats were set to travel to play the Loachapoka Indians in their season’s opening game this Friday. However, according to head coach Matthew Johnson, the game has been cancelled due to a player testing positive for COVID-19.

“On Tuesday, Aug 7. our football team had a player test positive for COVID,” Johnson said. “Due to our

circumstances we have suspended all football related activities for two weeks. After two weeks we will start an acclimation process for hope to return to play.

This process is to make sure our players are ready to play. We won’t be taking the field because we want to play, but we will take the field because we will be physically ready to play.”

Beulah’s second game against the Cleburne County and third game, what would have been the home opener on Sept.

4 against the Pike County Bulldogs have also been cancelled. If quarantine and the acclimation period go to plan, the Bobcats will open their season at home versus Trinity on

Sept. 11.

Beauregard High School: To begin their season, the Beauregard Hornets are scheduled for a non-region away game against Valley High School on Friday at 7 p.m. Head coach Rob Carter enters his sixth season at Beauregard. Last season, the Hornets had a poor year, finishing 1-9 and losing their first eight games. Carter will be hoping his team gets off to a better start in 2020. However, it won’t be easy. The Hornets are 3-5-0 alltime against Valley and lost last year’s matchup 27-0. Next up for Beauregard will be a home game against Booker T. Washington See FOOTBALL, page B5

Lee County School Board addresses COVID-19 concerns

By Will Fairless Associate Editor

The Lee County Board of Education, during its Aug. 11 meeting, gave an update on the COVID-19 situation and heard a community speaker on the subject of Lee County schools’ recent re-openings.

Robert White addressed the board with his concerns during the time allotted for community speakers.

He said that he believes teachers and parents should be allowed to choose whether their children go back to school.

“I know you guys are

between a rock and a hard place with making the choice, and it’s already decided now, but there are some questions that the parents have,” he said.

White’s main concern was how absences from virtual learning will be handled.

“I’m hearing right now from parents they’re being told by teachers that if they’re not logged in at certain times, their student is gonna be counted as absent,” White said.

“Me and my wife have to work, most of these parents have to work.

We can’t be at home to make sure our children are logged on at certain

times.”

White was worried not only about children whose parents couldn’t be at home during the day; he asked the board what accommodations would be made for children whose homes don’t have internet.

The board assured White that it and other leadership teams in the school systems would take all of those concerns into account as it makes further decisions for the school year.

James McCoy, superintendent of Lee County Schools, spoke briefly about the status of the schools with regard to COVID-19.

“If Alabama has one

thing going for them strong right now, it is the masks,” McCoy said. “When we started meeting for our plan we were bright red and had been bright red for a little while. We’re not just yellow.”

“Red” and “yellow” refer to the prevalence of the coronavirus in a certain area as defined by the Alabama Department of Public Health.

McCoy noted the trend down and said that as long as that continues, there is always promise and hope that Lee County Schools could return See SCHOOL BOARD, page B2

B2 August 19, 2020

OHS scrimages; prepares for Friday night

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

SCHOOL BOARD>> FROM B1 sooner to normal conditions.

“I feel confident that the decision made by this board is the right decision; I stand by it,” McCoy said, “I hope everybody does what they’re supposed to do.

I hope Governor Ivey keeps the mask ordinance in place a little

“Our Mission is Your Health”

BEAUREGARD DRUGS

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longer.”

In other business, the board: • recognized Michelle Rutherford for 34 years of service with Lee County Schools.

• announced that it has joined a class-action lawsuit, along with several other school systems and municipalities, against a pharmaceutical company. The lawsuit

has to do with opioid addiction, it has not been filed yet, and the board can still withdraw from it.

• approved the salary supplement schedule.

The Lee County Board of Education meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 2410 Society Hill Road in Opelika. Its next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 8.

B3 August 19, 2020

The Three E’s of Living and Learning in a New School Year

A

s we face a brand new school year full of hope and some uncertainty, I wanted to share three easy-to-remember words to put in your pocket for those days we might feel overwhelmed! I hope these gentle reminders will help in the classroom as well as at home. They are to encourage, endure and embrace! The three E’s!

1. Encourage: As parents and teachers we need to let children talk and express themselves as the year begins.

Of course this kind

of conversation does depend on their age.

The main goal with children young and old is to make sure that they are understood and heard. We have to be active listeners! If a child’s learning will be in-class learning or at home with online learning, allowing children to express themselves during this time instills confidence and courage as they proceed down this new path of learning.

To stay encouraged we have to realize that children are full of imaginary ideas.

Too, childhood is such a wonderful time of growth in learning from God’s world. Children are like sponges in learning new concepts!

Sometimes we teachers and parents cannot keep up with them. So when we share inspirational quotes with children we encourage their minds and hearts, which affects their attitudes and behavior.

This interaction of listening, talking and encouraging sets up the framework of hope of learning in this new school year. We early childhood teachers love to read and act out Dr. Seuss books! I love one of his quotes, which I use all the time in encouraging young children to be confident in approaching new learning tasks: “Why fit in when you were born to stand out?” Each child is special and unique and what a gift we give a child when we make sure they know they can learn and create!

2. Endure: I love the

definition of endure, which is “to live on, go on.” This Classroom Observer had a very difficult time learning math. I shed many tears over the subject. I can still reflect on that time and actually feel the attitude of just giving up!

So I have understood the sinking feelings that my young students have had of just wanting to give up. My math teacher met with me when she saw a big wall of discouragement rising up on my face daily.

Her encouragement has stuck with me with the quote, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going!” She backed her words with action in that she worked with me in small steps until I understood! It was like a ladder of learning and encouragement that she used. “I can’t do it; I want to do it; How do I do it?; I’ll try to do it; I can do it; I will do it.” She implanted a life lesson of not giving up when I hit small bumps on the road in trying to learn new concepts in

subjects I am not comfortable with. Her lesson of helping me has helped me as a teacher to outreach to those students who are having a difficult time in different subjects. I know as parents and teachers we may have students who have special learning needs and it means we may have to go over something several times but not give up. “Don’t get tired of doing what is good.

Don’t get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessings at the appropriate time!” (Galatians 6:9) We all are teaching very special lives who have beautiful hopes and futures! Thinking about that truly encourages us to endure.

3. Embrace means to hold. We parents and teachers can model and embrace that each day is truly a gift from God. The joy and happiness that our children express is a good contagious spirit for us adults as well. Embracing our children means

embracing everything about them, their good points and their imperfections. When I see children being hard on themselves to the point of breaking into tears when they think something is not perfect, I gently remind them that no one is perfect. Too, in embracing children during the learning process we have to look at the process and effort that they have put into trying to learn and accomplish an assignment. We embrace the effort that they have put forth rather than the outcome.

In embracing this upcoming year, I want to leave you with a little anonymous quote that expresses so much truth.

Everyone wants happiness, No one wants pain, But you can’t have a rainbow without a little rain.

Looking for a rainbow in this upcoming school year!

Beth Pinyerd, Classroom Observer

DISCOVER GIRL SCOUTS; JOIN TODAY

Girl Scouts is NOT cancelled

Courtesy of Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama

The coronavirus has school-aged children across the state and country confined to their homes and limiting their activities and social engagement. That is why Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA) wants you to know that Girl Scouts is NOT cancelled.

GSSA is bringing the exploration, fun and learning of Girl Scouts to your family even when circumstances are holding you back from other activities. After all, Girl Scouts is not somewhere girls go or something they do—it is who they are day in, day out.

Girl Scouts works. It is the best leadership experience for girls in the world for one good

Photo courtesy of Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama reason: it is girl-led.

The inclusive, all-female environment of a Girl Scout troop creates a safe space where girls can try new things, develop a range of skills, take on leadership roles and just be themselves.

“As the expert on girls, GSSA is uniquely poised to help girls and their families adapt to our new reality,” said GSSA CEO Karlyn Edmonds. “This year, we will even have the option for

girls to join Virtual Troops.”

GSSA is hosting weekly virtual registration sessions via Facebook Live starting Aug. 24 at 6 p.m. through Oct. 15.

Parents can tune in and hear more about

Girl Scouting, different troop options and how to register. To find a full list of all of the Discover Girl Scouts events, you can visit their Facebook page.

With unparalleled programming proven to unleash girls’ potentials, Girl Scouts is the place for girls.

Research shows that girls learn best in an all-girl, girl-led environment where they’re encouraged to try new things, develop a range of skills, take on leadership roles and just have fun being themselves.

So what are you waiting for? At Girl Scouts, she’ll discover who she is, what she’s passionate about and what she wants to achieve—both today and in the future.

She’ll discover all she can be and everything she can accomplish when she has the right tools and a safe space to shine— and work together to change the world.

Not a Girl Scout yet?

No problem! Troops are forming now— to join or volunteer go to www.girlscoutssa.org/join or call 1-800-239-6636.

About Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama serves more than 5,000 girls ages 5-17 and 2,500 adults who believe in the power of every G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader) to change the world.

We’re the preeminent leadership development organization for girls and have been for more than 100 years and a recent recipient of the Montgomery Impact Maker Award. With programming across 30 counties, GSSA offers every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure and success. To volunteer, reconnect, donate or join call 800-2396636 or visit www. girlscoutssa.org.

B4 August 19, 2020

OHS welcomes students back to school

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

B5 August 19, 2020

SEC announces conference-only schedule

By Wil Crews SportsCrews@Opelikaobserver.com

On Monday, the SEC announced the official in-conference-only schedule that is to be played this season.

After it was announced last week that the Big 10 and Pac-12 seasons would be suspended until the spring at least, it was announced that the SEC would go forward with theirs. Now we know when and where the Tigers will play each opponent. Monday was also the first day that reporters talked to Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn since June 4.

Since then, two Tiger players, linebacker Chandler Wooten and defensive back Traivon Leonard have opted out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns.

Wooten in particular will be missed – he played and made tackles in every game in 2019, finishing with 27 total and one interception.

Auburn missed out on spring practice due to COVID-19, and preparation for this season will be different than any other. But as Malzahn said in Monday’s press conference, “This isn’t a time for tradition.” He’s right. Normally, I would be ecstatic about the upcoming football season, but instead, the extenuating circumstances have me all doom and gloom. But hey, at least we have football.

The Auburn Tigers 2020 Football Schedule: Sept. 26 Kentucky at Auburn One of the added cross-divisional games the Tigers play due to the modified in-conference-only schedule.

Quarterback Joey Gatewood transferred out of Auburn to the Wildcats early last

SPORTS >> FROM B1 Opelika football games will air on WKKR 97.7 KICKER FM, online at kickerfm.com and I believe it will be live-streamed, sponsored by The Orthopaedic Clinic, on the NFHS network. Opelika School Superintendent Mark Neighbors originally decided to live stream games on YouTubelive. com at no charge to fans, but playoff games cannot be aired live and the school would be charged $500 per playoff game for playback 24 hours after the completion of the game.

The NFHS Network is a partner of the Alabama High School Athletic Association and all games can be aired live if using the NFHS Network. Fans can go online to nfhsnetwork.com, open an account and pay a subscription to watch

Kozan leads Auburn golfers at U.S. Amateur Courtesy of Auburn Athletics

Photo courtesy of Auburn Athletic Department season after losing the starting job to freshman Bo Nix. Auburn has made a habit of close season-opening games, with a 21-16 victory over Washington in 2018 and a 27-21 win over Oregon last season. If Gatewood gains eligibility for the 2020 season, the Tigers could be in for another close one.

Oct. 3: Auburn at Georgia The Deep South’s oldest rivalry will be played on the earliest calendar date since the team’s first ever meeting in 1892. It’s weird and it doesn’t seem right, but it replaces the Tigers’ would-have-been early season non-conference matchup against North Carolina.

Oct. 10: Arkansas at Auburn Potential Chad Morris revenge game as the former Arkansas coach faces his old team for the first time as the Tigers’ offensive coordinator. Auburn loves embarrassing Arkansas. and if the Tigers are 2-0 entering the matchup, expect a bloodbath.

Oct. 17: Auburn at South Carolina The second of the additional cross-divisional matchups that the Tigers play with the modified in-conference-only schedule. Gus Malzahn faces his old defensive coordinator Will

Muschamp.

Oct. 24: Auburn at Ole Miss Lane Kiffin probably wishes this game were a week later on Halloween – maybe he could dress up as a good football coach. I wonder if the tailgaters at The Grove will be as friendly with their alcohol with COVID-19 around – if the tailgaters are around at all.

Oct. 31: LSU at Auburn “LS-BOO.” What’s scarier than inviting the defending champions into Jordan-Hare on the spookiest day of the year? Probably the fact that few to no fans will be in the stadium to watch this heavyweight matchup.

Nov. 7: Bye Nov. 14: Auburn at Mississippi State Davis Wade Stadium won’t be as intimating with a mitigated number of fans ringing their should-be-banned cow bells due to COVID-19.

By this point in the season, it will be interesting to see what the verdict is on the always provocative first-year SEC head coach of the Bulldogs, Mike Leach.

Nov. 21: Tennessee at Auburn No one likes Tennessee. They cling to wins and claim to be title contenders every season, just to finish

6-6. The Volunteers beat the Tigers in their last matchup in 2018 and Auburn will look to get revenge, making it back-to-back weeks beating teams with dog mascots.

Nov. 28: Auburn at Alabama The Iron Bowl will not be the last game on the season. However, the silver lining of normalcy is that it will be played on its traditional post-thanksgiving date.

Will Alabama redshirt junior quarterback Mac Jones get a chance to avenge the loss he took at the hands of the Tigers in 2019? Or will Alabama’s true freshman phenom Bryce Young be taking the snaps by that point?

Dec 5. Texas A&M at Auburn Most Auburn fans hold a grudge against A&M head coach Jimbo Fisher. He led Florida State to a national championship in 2013, beating the Tigers on the Seminoles’ final drive. Hopefully, the players hold a grudge too. Fisher has not had the same success with A&M that he saw at Florida State, but some pundits see this as a season where the Aggies can jump into the elite group of teams in the SEC. I doubt it.

Tigers by 40 to close the season – if we get there.

Opelika football games live with the radio broadcast piped in. OHS will receive 50% of all subscriptions and can air every sport live, including volleyball, cross country, basketball, soccer, baseball, softball, tennis and other sporting events.

In a statement released by Opelika City Schools, OCS Superintendent Mark Neighbors said, ““Since we will be limiting attendance in Bulldog Stadium, we feel like it is important to provide the opportunity for all of our fans to be able to watch the football games on Friday night.

We appreciate The Orthopaedic Clinic being the title sponsor of the broadcast.”

Hopefully Opelika will air as many live sporting events as possible. The school can sell a year-long pass, half of the cost of which will go to Opelika High School. We will know

more this week. The Opelika radio broadcast begins at 6:30 on 97.7 Kicker fm.

ATTENDANCE AT BULLDOG STADIUM I reached out to OCS for information on fans inside Bulldog Stadium for home football games. The system has yet to release the information to all media outlets. Bulldog Stadium capacity will be set at 30% of the roughly 7,000 seats.

Tickets will be sold in advance online to families of competition participants of football, cheerleaders and band.

Each family can purchase three tickets per participant family. ALL tickets will be sold on the internet at www. gofan.co OHS Athletic Director Mike Pugh, now over the All-Sports Booster Club, sent letters to corporate sponsors asking for renewals. The plans are the same price despite cutting benefits.

Each plan has two fewer

football tickets to each home game, and there will be no corporate passes for other sporting events. Pugh stated the booster passes were taken away due to sports playing inside.

Nothing was mentioned about sports that play outside, such as softball, baseball, cross country and track and field. No season tickets were sold and all seats are general admission.

VOLLEYBALL OCS limited the capacity at Bulldog Gym as well. Family members can purchase up to four tickets per player.

Fans will be able to purchase remaining tickets available.

If you have questions about tickets call OHS at 334-745-9715.

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL COVERAGE Keep up with high school football locally by listening to the “High School Coaches Show” each Wednesday 6-8 p.m.

Six members of the 2020-21 Auburn men’s golf team participated in the 2020 U.S. Amateur Aug. 10-16.

Graysen Huff, Andrew Kozan, Brandon Mancheno, Wells Padgett, Jovan Rebula and Alex Vogelsong were among the 264 golfers in the 120th installment of the annual event. In addition, former Tiger Brett Boner took part in the U.S. Amateur.

The event took place in Bandon, Ore. at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, a par-72 course that stretches 7,214 yards.

After two rounds of

FOOTBALL >> FROM B1 on Friday, Aug. 28.

Carter could not be reached for comment.

Loachapoka High School: The Loachapoka Indians were scheduled to open their season this Friday at home against the Beulah Bobcats. The game has been cancelled due to a Beulah player testing positive for COVID-19.

Loachapoka’s firstyear head coach Reco Newtown is seeking to take the Indians to the playoffs for the first time in seven years.

Newton could not be reached for comment and there has been no announced update to the schedule as of now. Loachapoka is scheduled to play their second game at home on Friday, Aug. 28 against Central of Coosa County.

Smiths Station on 97.7 Kicker FM and FOX Sports the Game 910-1310. Every football coach in the area will be on the air during the two hour show. iHeartRadio continues to air Opelika football, Valley football on 100.9 FM and Smiths Station football on MIX 96.7. Every Saturday morning catch the “Orthopaedic Clinic High School Recap Show” on foxsportsthegame.com Weekday mornings, listen to “On the Mark” (6 to 9 a.m.) on FOX Sports the Game 910-1310 AM for local high school sports coverage. The “On the Mark” guest lineup includes former AHSAA Executive Director Dan Washburn on Mondays, former Alabama football coach Gene Stallings is on Thursday at 7:05, Orthopaedic Clinic CEO Terry Rosenthal Friday at 8:30 and guest appearances by

stroke play in as many days, the 264-person field was trimmed to 64 for match play to decide the champion.

The winner of the event earned exemptions from qualifying for the next 10 U.S. Amateurs, as well as an exemption into the 2021 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines and 2021 Open Championship.

The winner is also likely to receive an invitation into the 2021 Masters Tournament.

Kozan fired a 3-under 68 in the second round of the U.S. Amateur Tuesday to advance to match play. The rising senior finished stroke play at See KOZAN, page B6

High School: The Smiths Station Panthers were scheduled to have a home, non-region opening game against the Russell County Warriors. The game has been cancelled as Russell County Schools announced in a press release that their Fall sports will be delayed until Sept.

4 due to COVID-19 data. “Safety is a priority for our students and employees alike,” the release said. “Although we are experiencing challenges as related to the current health pandemic, we will remain hopeful and committed to supporting our student-athletes.” Smiths Station will be awarded the win as the game will be considered a forfeit

by Russell County.

Smiths Station’s next game is scheduled against Gardendale in a regional home game on Friday, Aug. 28.

James Cooper (Western Sizzlen), Derek Lee, Kenny Knox of Kenny Knox Tires, former Opelika head coaches Larry Gore, Joe Wilson and former AU coach Doug Barfield. Twice a month we bring you the “Mayors report” as Lanett Mayor Kyle McCoy, Valley Mayor Leonard Riley, Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller and Auburn Mayor Ron Anders discuss council meetings.

Other guests include: AHSAA Executive Director Steve Savarese and Alabama State Superintendent, Dr. Eric Mackey. Local high school coaches call each day updating us on their teams and program.

Tune in to “On the Mark” weekdays 6 to 9 a.m. on 910-1310 am and online at foxsportsthegame.com/listenlive D. Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys State Director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council.

B6 August 19, 2020

KOZAN >> FROM B5 2-under (73-68--141) at Bandon Dunes.

Kozan, who entered the round in a tie for 56th, rose to a tie for 23rd to cement his place in the top 64, who competed for the match play title beginning Wednesday.

The West Palm Beach, Fla., native rattled off five birdies, including three on the back nine, to go along with 11 pars on the day.

Vogelsong and Huff tied for 102nd and 115th, respectively. Vogelsong ended stroke play at 4-over

(72-75--147), while Huff capped his week at 5-over (72-76--148).

Mancheno (75-78-153), Padgett (80-73-153) and Rebula tied for 199th at 10-over (78-75--153). Boner tied for 241st at 16-over (76-83--159).

Kozan won his matchup in the Round of 64 to move on to the Round of 32 during match play at the U.S. Amateur Wednesday at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort.

The rising senior defeated Oklahoma’s Patrick Welsh, 4&3, to advance to the next stage of the 120th installment of the event.

Kozan led from the start after winning the

Photo courtesy of Auburn Athletics first hole. After tying the second hole, he then won the next five holes to hold a commanding 6-up advantage through seven holes.

The West Palm Beach, Florida native extended his lead to 7-up, his largest of the day, after

recording a birdie on the par-4 10th hole.

Despite losing three of the next four holes, Kozan earned the 4&3 result after tying the par-3 15th.

Kozan dropped a tight 2&1 decision to bow out in the Round of 32

during match play at the U.S. Amateur Thursday at Bandon Dunes.

Despite an even battle with Charlotte’s Matthew Sharpstene, Kozan was unable to gain an advantage in the 17-hole affair.

The two players were

all square through the first 11 holes, matching each other shot for shot, but Sharpstene moved to 1-up after the 12th hole.

After Sharpstene acquired a 2-up advantage on the 16th hole, Kozan needed to win the next two holes to keep the match alive. However, the two golfers each tallied a par on the 17th hole, ending Kozan’s run at the 120th installment of the U.S. Amateur.

Tyler Strafaci, a fifth-year Georgia Tech student from Davie, Florida., won the U.S. Amateur Championship over Charles “Ollie” Osborne of Reno, Nevada.

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics

B7

August 19, 2020

Wednesday, August 19, 2020

Inside the Statehouse

We Have Six Living Former Governors. How Are They Doing?

S

ome of you may wonder how many past governors we have in Alabama who are still living and how they are doing. We have six living past governors.

Governor John Patterson is our oldest living former chief executive. Patterson is 99 years old and living on his ancestral family farm in rural Tallapoosa County in an obscure area named Goldville.

Patterson is a legend in Alabama politics. He was Governor from 1958-1962 and was at the forefront of the beginning of the Civil Rights issue. He has the distinction of being the only person to beat George Wallace in a governor’s race in the Heart of Dixie.

When he was elected in 1958, he was 37 years old and was dubbed the “Boy Governor.” Patterson was Attorney General of Alabama for a term prior to being governor and served several decades on the Court of Criminal Appeals after his governorship.

He spends his time on his farm reading and tending to his animals. In fact, visitors to his home will find he has a pet goat named

STEVE FLOWERS Rebecca. She sits and listens intently to your conversation and her head will move and look at those talking as though she is part of the conversation. Governor Patterson is totally on top of his game and has attended numerous weddings and funerals in the past year. He recognizes and converses with friends and relatives.

Forrest “Fob” James served two terms as governor, although not See FLOWERS, page B9

Smiths Station to repair roads with Rebuilt Alabama Act funds

By Hannah Lester hlester@opelikaobserver.com

The City of Smiths Station approved a resolution for the expenditure of the Rebuild Alabama Act 2020-2021 during its Tuesday night council meeting.

“We will spend the money for roads as well as improving infrastructure,” said Smiths Station Mayor Bubba Copeland.

The resolution was unanimously approved.

Additionally, the council approved a resolution for the ABC Application for Transfer of Licenses for the Country Market, located at 2505 Co Rd 430.

The council did not approve a resolution for the ABC Application for Transfer of License for Matter of Taste, located at 2368 Lee Road 430.

“After carefully

reviewing the application, I feel strongly that we need businesses in our city, but we also need businesses that represent our city as well as people that represent our city as well, too,” said Morris Jackson, place 2 council-member. “And I’m not saying that this right here won’t do that, I’m just saying, I’m looking at the applicant’s past, okay?

That’s the only thing that I have to go on.”

The vote was one to five.

“In any situation that we face, you vote your conscience,” Copeland said. “You’re an independent person that represents your people.”

The council passed an ordinance for a zoning amendment for short term accommodations rental.

Additionally, the council passed a business license ordinance

amendment for short term accommodations rental.

Before the ordinances were passed, Copeland reworded the official wording in both, however.

“A short term rental is an occupied property that is not a hotel, motel, lodging house or bed and breakfast establishment where at least one room or unit is rented out by an operator through the use of advanced reservations,” said Scott Johnston, city clerk, reading from the amended official ordinance wording in both.

The City of Smiths Station City Council is held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 6 p.m. E.S.T at the council chambers (which are located at 2336 Lee Road 430.)

A works session is held before council at 5:30 p.m. E.S.T.

Council and mayor candidates speak in forum

By Hannah Lester and Will Fairless

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce hosted a forum for Opelika’s city council and mayoral candidates on Aug. 12 at the Opelika Performing Arts Center.

Each candidate was given four minutes to address an audience that comprised community

members in the building and those watching online.

Mayoral Candidates Gary Fuller and Tiffany Gibson-Pitts, in addition to their four minutes, were given time to respond to questions submitted by the community then selected by the chamber of commerce.

The following is a summary of what

each candidate said at Wednesday’s forum.

WARD 1: There are six total candidates for Ward 1, but only four participated in the forum.

George Allen used his four minutes to share his background in the city of Opelika foremost.

See FORUM, page B8

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

B8 August 19, 2020

FORUM >> FROM B7 Allen is currently a fundraising member for the J.W. Darden Foundation, member of the Lee County Voters League and Youth Organization, a member of the Reactivation Committee for the Lee County Branch of the NAACP, he serves at Covington recreation and more.

“Opelika is a growing city, but it’s not perfect,” Allen said. “I’ve served as a poll worker in Ward 1 for many years and talked with the voters about their various concerns, some of which have gone unaddressed.

If elected, I will be a consistent voice for the unheard, regardless of age, race or gender.”

The candidate said he is concerned with street repair, sidewalks and potholes. He also said he would focus on good jobs for citizens, the homelessness and poverty in the city and providing a better education for children.

Melvin Brooks followed Allen and reiterated throughout his speech that his goals and platform are focused on safety, cleanliness, equality and unity.

“Safety, cleanliness, equality, unity is the key,” he said.

“Throughout my campaign journey I have met some of the finest, most interesting people, young and old who are looking for the same thing for Opelika, that one word: change.”

He said that people of all different backgrounds all want the same thing, safety, cleanliness, equality and unity.

Robert Johnson said that although he was not born in Opelika, the city is home.

“I believe the most vital thing one must possess to be a leader in our community and serve in such an important position as city council, is he must be caring and committed with a sincere devotion to serving others,” Johnson said.

Johnson said he would focus on initiatives in

lower crime, involvement opportunities for citizens, creating affordable homes and better jobs.

“I pledge to stay connected to you, the citizens of Ward 1, by constant and clear communication,” he said.

Jamie Lowe is the city’s youngest candidate, not only for Ward 1, but any seat, at only 20 years old.

The young candidate said that his platform is focused on education, safety and economic development.

Lowe admitted that crime is a problem for the city of Opelika but that he would focus on involving the youth in the community to help stop the crime.

Secondly, in education, Lowe said he would like to see a Pre-K classroom in each public school.

“The city of Opelika [recently] received a grant from the state office that gave us two Pre-K classrooms and that’s a wonderful program,” he said.

Finally, Lowe would like to continue the upkeep of the city, he said.

WARD 2: There are only two candidates for the Ward 2 Opelika City Council seat and only one of those candidates spoke Wednesday night.

Erica Norris spoke in person to the audience and took some time to share her background as a citizen who was born in and grew up in the city.

Norris said she spends time volunteering with Opelika City Schools and the East Alabama Workforce Investment Network Region 8.

“That helped me to understand too the food insecurity, when it comes to kids,” she said.

“And also the importance of businesses like the East Alabama Food Bank and also the city schools to help families and children and help meet those food insecurities.”

Oscar Penn III could not attend the meeting but prepared a video.

Penn said he wants Opelika to be a place where his children and grandchildren are

comfortable.

Penn grew up in the city but left to serve in the military.

When he came back, he said, downtown Opelika was almost nonexistent.

“I set on a crusade to rebuild downtown Opelika,” Penn said.

Penn said he will focus on entrepreneurship and community development.

WARD 3 There are three candidates for the Ward 3 Opelika City Council seat; all three spoke on Wednesday.

Michael Carter cited his experience as a professional leadership facilitator for an S&P 500 company as evidence that he can carry out his vision for Opelika.

He broke down that vision into four tenets: lead, live, work and play. He called on the city council to listen and lead. He said more Opelika citizens should stay in the city to work instead of going to bigger ones in the region; he added that the new technology and innovation park will play an important role in achieving that goal.

“I have a vision for our city, and to achieve this, I’m standing on four pillars,” Carter said. “I have to be able to give the vision to the people in order for them to be able to succeed.”

Robert Lofton said he has watched Opelika grow and change throughout the years.

He said one of his biggest assets is that he can be a full time city councilperson because he is retired and knows about hard work.

He said that his experience as a business owner (of a veterinary hospital that employed 30 people) means he understands small business and working with budgets.

“I’ve worked physically and I’ve worked with budgets, large budgets,” Lofton said.

“I’ve learned to actively listen. You have the information I need to be an effective councilperson, to represent you well.”

Kelli Thompson is focused on implementing an annual, city-wide

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

citizen survey. She said the the lack of such a survey is a deficiency Opelika does not share with a lot of cities of its size.

She is a research professor at Auburn University, which she said means she is uniquely suited to carry out such a survey.

Thompson said she has spoken to many other candidates running for city council and has heard support for the annual survey.

“We’re talking about making sure that your voices and your needs and your concerns are registered in a way, a systematic and efficient way so that we can listen and respond if we are given the privilege to take your hardearned resources and make budgets that bring about the vision that we all have for the community,”” she said.

WARD 5 There are four candidates for the Ward 5 Opelika City Council seat, and all four spoke at Wednesday night’s forum.

Chuck Adams said he is heavily invested in the future of Opelika.

His children live and work in the city, and his grandchildren will be in the Opelika school system.

“I believe that this city of five wards united together as one government can accomplish great things,” Adams said. “United together, we can be the standard for caring for our elderly. United together, we can be the standard for community policing.”

He added that he thinks Opelika can be the standard for creating opportunities for its residents to succeed, caring for its veterans, safety in its schools and community and building roads and infrastructure that make sense.

David Canon said his greatest asset is his experience on the city council; he has been Ward 5’s representative on the council since 2010.

He listed some of the things the council has achieved since he joined it, including a new hightech water treatment

facility, a new police station, the Opelika Sportsplex, two new fire stations and the prevention of a proposed granite quarry coming to Opelika.

Canon said he plans to continue his work by getting new developments and businesses in downtown Opelika, working had to bring the local economy back to where it was before the coronavirus and developing affordable housing.

“My goal, or vision, of Opelika is to keep Opelika the greatest city in Alabama to live, work, play, raise a family, go to church and retire,” Canon said.

Brandon Fincher is focused on keeping the city council accountable to those it represents.

He said he would like to impose a threeterm limit for Opelika’s elected officials, give long-term tax incentives not only to a select few businesses and prevent developers from doing construction that negatively impacts the people of Opelika.

“This November, Opelika’s mayor will begin making a salary that is higher than the mayor of Birmingham, Montgomerey and Mobile, despite being a fraction of those cities’ size,” Fincher said.

“This $120,000 salary is equal to Gov. Kay Ivey’s salary.”

Todd Rauch is a U.S. Army veteran who is focused on the council’s transparency.

He said it is the city council’s responsibility to keep everyone up to date on what’s going on in the community.

Rauch said he would wants to create online forums so people have a platform to tell the council about their issues and so the council can update the people on their city’s business.

“It’s important for you to understand what my passions are, and that is: my faith, my family, my country and my community,” he said. “I’m committed to fostering a culture of public engagement because if you have issues, as your city councilman,

I expect you to call me first.”

MAYOR CANDIDATES: Gary Fuller has served the city of Opelika for the last 16 years, but is challenged this election by councilwoman Tiffany Gibson-Pitts for the seat of mayor.

Gary Fuller said that he will continue to recruit new jobs to the city, despite the over 4,000 he has already.

“My business experience, knowledge and relationships are what set me apart from my opponent,” he said.

Recently, the city approved a new library and created the community relations special services division for the Opelika Police Department, Fuller said.

He said he also wants to focus on bringing more Pre-K programs to the area.

“Finally, I will never back down fighting for Opelika,” he said. “I led the fight against the quarry earlier this year and with your help, we were successful.”

Tiffany Gibson-Pitts shared her story, which led her to want to pursue the position of mayor of Opelika.

When Gibson-Pitts was young, she lived in a trailer park in Opelika, a dangerous and unsafe area, she said.

One night, while listening to gunshots, Gibson-Pitts realized just how dangerous her home was.

“As I sat on the floor with tears in my eyes, I promised God that if he would get me out of that situation, I would return and help others,” she said.

Affordable housing is a key component of Gibson-Pitts’s platform.

“Affordable housing continues to be mentioned as our top need,” she said. “While many beautiful homes have been built, we still have nearly 1,000 families on the waiting list at the Opelika Housing Authority. While we’ve brought many jobs to the area, according to the U.S.’s Bureau Center See FORUM, page B14

Rebecca Rice Cell: 334-703-0801 rebecca@johnrice.info

B9 August 19, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICES CITY OF OPELIKA SYNOPSIS OF ZONING NOTICE ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS The City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, September 15, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. in the Courtroom of the Municipal Court Building, 300 Martin Luther King Blvd., Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to consider the

adoption of an ordinance to amend the text of Ordinance No. 124-91, entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika”, adopted on September 7, 1991.

The proposed ordinance provides for the regulation of alternative financial service providers and generally amends the Zoning Ordinance in the following respects: (a) Section 2.2 “definitions” shall be amended

by adding the definition of the term “alternative financial service provider” (b) Current section 7.3C “Use categories” shall be amended to provide for “alternative financial service providers” in the matrix table and the portion of the matrix table shall be amended to read as follows:

(c) Section VIII shall be amended by adding a new subsection to be numbered 8.28.2 “alternative financial services providers”. The new subsection will provide development standards and separation requirements for alternative financial service providers, including, but not limited to, separation requirements that the proposed location is located at least 2500 feet from any other alternative financial service provider and at least 200 feet from any property used primarily for a single-family residence.

Public Notice of this pub-

lic hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on August 12, 2020 in the Opelika Observer. This notice is given pursuant to Section 11-52-78 Code of Alabama (1975).

The City Council reserves the right to amend or alter any of the proposed amendments to the zoning ordinance.

All interested persons are invited to attend the public hearing and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at City Hall, P.O. Box 390, Opelika, Alabama 36803 at any time prior

to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and public hearing.

Please contact Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA compliance officer, at (334) 705-2083 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 13 th day of August, 2020. /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 08/19/2020

FLOWERS >> FROM B7 concurrently. He was first elected in 1978 as a Democrat, serving 1979-1982, and secondly in 1994 as a Republican, serving from 1995-1998. He is the only person in state history to be elected governor as a Democrat and a Republican. Fob is 85 and doing well.

He lives primarily in Miami, FL, and spends his days walking and caring for his wife, Bobbie.

Robert Bentley was one of the most successful and respected dermatologists in the state prior to entering politics. Bentley served two terms in the Alabama House prior to his being elected governor twice. He was first elected governor in 2010 and reelected, overwhelmingly, in 2014. He served six years as governor and did a good job.

He is 77 years old and in good health.

He has resumed his medical/dermatology practice in Tuscaloosa.

Bob Riley served two successful terms as governor. He was elected in 2002 and reelected in 2006, therefore serving as governor eight

Paid for by Robert Lofton Ward 3 Campaign

full years. He is only 75 years old. He was raised in Clay County and now lives in Birmingham with his lovely wife, Patsy. He has several lucrative lobbying contracts.

If anyone was ever born to be governor, it was Don Siegelman. He was born and raised in Mobile. He went to the University of Alabama, where he was SGA President and then went on to graduate from Georgetown Law School. He served in Alabama politics for 26 years. He was elected Secretary of State, Attorney General of Alabama and Lt. Governor prior to his election as Governor in 1998. He served one term as governor. Siegelman is the last member of the Democratic party and the only Roman Catholic to serve as Governor of Alabama.

Don is doing well at 74. I enjoy visiting with him over lunch. He enjoys time with his wife, Lori, his two grown children, Joseph and Dana, and his dog Kona. He has a book titled Stealing our Democracy, which is doing well in sales.

Speaking of being born to be governor,

Jim Folsom Jr. was literally born in the Governor’s Mansion in May 1949, while his daddy, James “Big Jim” Folsom, was governor in his first term, 1946-1950.

Jim Folsom Jr. had an illustrious career in Alabama politics. He was elected and served several times as a member of the Public Service Commission and three terms as Lt. Governor, prior to becoming governor in 1993. He did an excellent job as governor and is credited with bringing Mercedes to Alabama.

Little Jim was, being the son of the legendary “Big Jim” Folsom, inherently a brilliant politician.

However, most folks say his beautiful wife, Marsha Guthrie, is the better politician of the two. Jim and Marsha are doing well and live in their hometown of Cullman.

Their son and daughter are grown and are doing well.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist.

His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.stevef lowers.us.

B10 August 19, 2020

NRA under assault from inside and outside: Will it survive or misfire?

By Greg Markley For the Opelika Observer

The president of the Auburn University College Republicans invited me to a meeting at the Eagles Nest atop Haley Center in the late 1990s. After the guest spoke I had a short interview with this new official at the National Rifle Association. His name: Wayne LaPierre.

Jump ahead to 2020.

LaPierre is a household name and a lightning rod. The NRA has grown but increasingly faces criticism and tarnishment.

LaPierre makes a million dollars a year, due to continually high growth in funds and memberships. Actually, he only earns $985,885 per annum.

LaPierre is a very good speaker in front of audiences. And, as I found out at AU’s event, he is soft-spoken oneon-one. That estimate is shared by many national journalists. Now, though, LaPierre faces an existential challenge: New York state is suing him and his coworkers for corruption. The end

result, probably years from now based on legal progress, could force the NRA to dissolve.

The civil suit, filed in state court by NY Attorney General Letitia James, alleges that NRA’s leadership spent funds improperly, engaged in self-dealing and made false or misleading disclosures to the attorney general and the IRS. According to SmartAsset, a financial information Website, “Self-dealing can happen when a financial advisor or other financial professional acts in his own best interest rather than in the best interests of their clients.”

Keller Williams, a local member of Gun Owners of America but not the NRA, said the NRA is a victim of partisan witch-hunting.

“It seems that the New

York Attorney General filed the suit because it is an election year and the NRA supports Mr. Trump, so what better time to file a suit to defame a major gun rights lobbying group and in doing so, hurt the President’s reputation further,” Williams, a member of the Libertarian Party, said.

“The NRA has been weakened as a major gun rights organization,” he said. “In 2017 they supported the ban on bump stocks (a device used on a rifle that uses the recoil to continuously fire, albeit, inefficiently, in automatic fashion). This ban on a firearm accessory set the precedent that the [Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives] can arbitrarily ban components of a rifle, which could lead to the banning of whole firearms.”

If the NY lawsuit charges are true, LaPierre and his associates have explaining to do. Did he and his family fly to the Bahamas on private jets regularly using the money proudly donated for NRA, not LaPierre personally? Were lovers of the

Second Amendment’s good money spent in financial wrongdoing and mismanagement? How did $89,000 in contributors’ money come to be used to settle a potential sexual discrimination claim against a high-up NRA employee?

The NRA had internal problems in the past decade. A major one was when Oliver North, a polarizing figure in the Iran-Contra scandal of the 1980s, assumed the association’s presidency in 2018. He reportedly found financial irregularies and told members of the NRA Foundation. In April 2019, North asked LaPierre to resign. But LaPierre rallied with wide support from members and North himself resigned. That’s a new one: a president ousted by an executive vice president!

“Supporters of the NRA have diminished to the older generations who remember the days when the NRA actively upheld the Second Amendment,” Williams said. “But now it seems the GOA and the Firearms Policy Coalition are the major

gun rights lobbyists actively fighting against anti-gun rights laws.

This, while being ‘no compromise’ on our God-given inalienable right to defend ourselves from domestic and foreign tyranny.”

I used to teach political science students why the National Rifle Association has such a historical footprint and such power today. First, the 5 million members: What politician can deny that influence? Second, the roster of donors: What organization wouldn’t be envious?

And third, the zeal of its members: What group compares to their dedication to the NRA and the Second Amendment?

One thing about NRA members disappoints me. They announce themselves to be “constitutionalist” because they support the Second Amendment. Yet they complain when someone tries to burn the flag. What? Our First Amendment protects freedom of expression, popular or not. The Amendments aren’t pickand-choose, are they?

Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonin Scalia

Elect a name you Know, Elect a name you Know, Vote forVote Jamie Lowe! for Jamie Lowe!

disliked people burning the U.S. flag, but allowed it because the Constitution allows.

The NRA was founded in 1871 by former Union Army officers, who were upset that so many Northern soldiers, without good training, could barely use their weapons in the war that ran from 1861-1865. Only for the past 50+ years has the Association been so involved in protecting the Second Amendment.

NY’s Attorney General began a legal process that may destroy the NRA. But Wayne LaPierre can take comfort in words from Charlton Heston, former NRA president.

“In all of Shakespeare’s plays, no matter what tragic events occur, no matter what rises and falls, we return to stability in the end.”

Greg Markley has lived in Lee County for 20 of the past 24 years.

An award-winning journalist, he has master’s degrees in education and history. He taught political science as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama.

AUGUST 25, 2020 USTAUGUST 25, 2020 25, 2020

Supporting and Supporting porting and Promoting and Promoting • Safety, • Education romoting• Safety • Economic Development • Education ty, • Education in Ward 1

• Economic mic Development Development n Ward 1in Ward 1

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Jamie Lowe, 2106 S. Long St. 27, Opelika, AL 36801

or by the Committee Jamie Lowe, 2106 S. Long 27, S. Opelika, Paid for to

by Elect the Committee to Elect Jamie Lowe,St.2106 Long St.AL 27,36801 Opelika, AL 36801

B11 August 19, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES >> FROM B9 --------------Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: 1412 Opelika Rd, Auburn, AL 36830 on Thursday, September 10, 2020 at 10:00 AM William Allison Unit# 211 9660 Tuskeegee St. Notasulga, AL 36866 household items Mark Brumbeloe Unit# 256 194 Winterset Ln Notasulga, AL 36866 Books and boxes Wendy Drost Unit# 267 2207 Franklin St Auburn , AL 36830 furniture from house, boxes, wardrobes Brianne Laureen Atkinson Unit# B25 420 N Dean Rd Apt 106 Auburn, AL 36830 Paintings and small furniture, boxes Chudney Trimble Unit# J126 35021 County Rd 2 Shorter, AL 36075 washer dryer mattresses boxes Selena Ware Unit# L149 1355 Commerce Dr Apt 108 Auburn, AL 36830 10x20 three bed rooms 2 couches w/d deep freezer fire place coffee and end table lamps and Corey Ogletree Unit# O174 387 Webster Rd Lot 83 Auburn, AL 36830 queen bed sectional couch The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 08/19/20 & 08/26/20 --------------NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE Default having been made in the payment of that certain promissory note and the terms of that certain mortgage

executed by AUGUSTA J. FLOURNOY to FIRST NATIONAL BANK, WEST POINT, GEORGIA, now known as CAPITAL CITY BANK, dated the 7th day of November, 2000, which mortgage was recorded in Mortgage Book 2751, Page 332, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, the undersigned CAPITAL CITY BANK, under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in said mortgage, will sell at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash before the Courthouse door of the Lee County Courthouse in Opelika, Alabama, on September 3, 2020, or on such later date as circumstances may require, during the legal hours of sale, the following real estate, situated in Lee County, Alabama, to wit: Commence at a 1-/2” iron pin found at the Southeast corner of the Southwest quarter of the Northwest quarter of Section 19,Township 20 North, Range 29 East, Lee County, Alabama; thence run North 00° 15’ 37” East for a distance of 493.14 feet to an iron pin on the South margin of the right-of-way of Lee Road 372; thence run North 02° 27 ‘42” East for a distance of 123.60 feet to an iron pin on the North margin of the right-ofway of Lee Road 270 and the point of beginning of the parcel to be described herein.

FROM THIS POINT OF BEGINNING, thence run in a Southeasterly [sic] direction along said margin on the arc of a curve to the right having a radius of 606.62 feet for an arc length of 176.81 feet (chord South 80° 00’ 21” West for 176.07 feet) to a concrete right-of-way monument at P.C. Station 0+04; thence run South 88° 16’ 56” West along said margin for a distance of 154.62 feet to an iron pin; thence run North 00º 24’ 58” West for a distance of 264.73 feet: to an iron pin; thence run North 86° 27’ 19” East for a distance of 331.96 feet to an iron pin; thence run South 00° 20’ 07” West for a distance of 250.07 feet to an iron pin and the point of beginning, containing 2.010 acres, more or less, and subject to all easements and restrictions of record and being further de-

scribed as Parcel “B” on that certain survey for Virginia Yarbrough Leak prepared on 7/10/96 by James L. McCrory, Ala. Reg. Land Surveyor No. 12493.

References: Will Book 21, Page 456; Will Book 27, Page 196; Deed Book 534, Page 349; Deed Book 539, Page 483, Deed Book 2073, Page 172.

The indebtedness secured by said mortgage has been and is hereby declared due because of default under the terms of said promissory note, and any renewal or extension thereof, and mortgage, including but not limited to the nonpayment of the indebtedness as and when due. The indebtedness remaining in default, this sale will be made for the purpose of paying the same, all expenses of the sale, including a reasonable attorney’s fee, and all other payments provided for under the terms of the promissory note and mortgage.

The mortgagor has been furnished with written notice, mailed by certified mail to the property address at least thirty (30) days prior to the sale date, which notice provides as follows: “Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances.

Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process.”

THIS LAW FIRM IS ENGAGED IN THE COLLECTION OF A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. CAPITAL CITY BANK Mortgagee Donald R. Cleveland P. O. Box 527 West Point, Georgia 31833 706.643.9552 Attorney for Mortgagee Legal run 08/12/2020, 08/19/2020 & 08/26/2020 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of Chloe Diana Couvrette Meeks,

Deceased Case No: 2020-272 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION TO BE PUBLISHED Letters of Administration on said deceased having been granted to TERRANCE JOSEPH MEEKS, Administrator on this the 30th day of July, 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. BY: James E. Hall, Attorney for Administrator.

Legal Run 08/12/20, 08/19/20 & 08/26/20 --------------NOTICE OF CREDITORS THE ESTATE OF ALBERT L. SNIPES, Deceased PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2020-225 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of ALBERT L. SNIPES deceased having been granted to Deborah H. Snipes a/k/a Deborah Holifield Snipes, on the 22nd day of July, 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Deborah H. Snipes a/k/a Deborah Holifield Snipes Legal Run 08/05/20, 08/12/20 & 08/19/20 --------------Notice to Contractors Federal Aid Project No. TAPAA-TA19 (916) City of OPELIKA Bid# 20028 Lee County, Alabama Sealed bids will be received by the City of Opelika at 204 S 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama, until 2 p.m,. August 25 2020, and at that time publicly opened for constructing the following: STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS ON 1ST AVENUE, FROM N. 7TH STREET TO

N. 8 TH STREET., ON N. 8TH STREET, FROM N. RAILROAD AVENUE TO THE 1ST AVENUE, SIDEWALKS, CURB, CONCRETE ROADWAY and LANDSCAPING. The bracket estimate on this project is from $500,000 to 750,000). This bracket range is shown only to provide general financial information to contractors and bonding companies concerning the project’s complexity and size. This bracket should not be used in preparing a bid, nor will this bracket have any bearing on the decision to award the contract. The principal items of work are approximately as follows: clearing pavement and concrete demolition; earthwork Storm structures; Erosion control measures; Traffic control measures; sidewalk, concrete roadways, driveways and landscaping.

The entire project shall be complete in 60 working days.

To be eligible for considerations, bids must be submitted on complete original proposals made available by the owner. Bid documents (including plans and proposals) are available at 700 Fox Trail Road Opelika, Alabama 36803. No bid documents will be distributed later than 24 hours prior to the scheduled opening of bids.

A cashier’s check (drawn on an Alabama bank) or bid bond for 5% of the amount bid (maximum of $50,000.00) and made payable to the City of Opelika must accompany each bid as evidence of good faith.

It is not required that a contractor be licensed in order to submit a bid; however, prior to award of a contract, proper proof of all applicable licensures must be provided by the Contractor. Proof of insurance coverage of the types and amounts as set forth in the project specifications will be required of the contractor, and any and all subcontractors, prior to beginning work. The contractor will be required to perform work amounting to at least 30% of the total contract cost with his own organization.

Contractor prequalification is not required to bid on this project. However, the award

of the contract will not be made to any bidder who, at the time of the award, is considered by the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) to be disqualified from bidding, nor to any bidder who is an affiliate of or has a corporate officer, director, or principal owner who is a corporate officer, director, or owner of, another person who is presently disqualified

by ALDOT. Further details and definitions regarding this provision are included in Section 102 of Special Provision 18-LPA3.

This is a Federally Funded project through ALDOT. The proposed work shall be performed in conformity with the rules and regulations for carrying out the Federal Highway Act and other acts amendatory, supplementary, or relative thereto. This project is subject to the contract work hours and safety standards act and its implementing regulations. MBE/ DBE participation is encouraged; however, no specific MBE/DBE goals have been established for this project.

Minimum wage rates forth is project have been pre-determined by the Secretary of Labor and are set forth in the advertised specifications.

In accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964,78 STAT. 252,42 U.S.C.2000D to 2000D-4 and Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office of the Secretary, Part 21, nondiscrimination in Federally-Assisted programs of the Department of Transportation issued pursuant to such act, all bidders are hereby notified that if will be affirmatively ensured that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, minority business enterprises will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in consideration for an award.

The right to reject any or all bids is reserved.

Honorable Gary Fuller Mayor Legal Run 08/05/2020, 08/12/2020 & 08/19/2020

• Ability to be insured under the Authority’s automobile insurance policy • Ability to be covered under the Authority’s fidelity bond To apply please visit our office, located at 1706 Toomer Street, Opelika, AL 36801 or complete an application on-line at http://www.opelikaha.org/ Default.asp?ID=123&pg= Employment+­Opportunities ------------HELP WANTED: Maintenance Mechanic Opelika Housing Development, Inc. is currently seeking highly motivated, experienced, and trustworthy candidates to fill the Full-time position of Maintenance Technician for properties in the Opelika, AL. . area. Duties will include, but not be limited to: · Promptly handle unit and facility work orders · Complete repairs in a consistent and correct manner · Provide excellent customer service · Work well with other team members · Willing to clean grounds as

needed · Be well organized to coordinate and perform unit and site inspections · Able to complete makeready of units proficiently Ideal candidates should have at least 3 years of experience in apartment maintenance (or similar skills). Candidates should have an understanding of and repair capabilities in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, painting, appliance repair, and/or other tasks related to maintaining the communities in excellent condition. HVAC Certification not required, but preferred. This position will offer competitive pay and benefit package.

Education: · High school or equivalent (Required) License or certification: · Driver’s License (Required) · HVAC Certification (Not required, but preferred) To apply please visit our office, located at 1706 Toomer Street, Opelika, AL 36801 or complete an application online at http://www.opelikaha. org/Default.asp?ID=123&pg= Employment­+Opportunities

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LOCAL CLASSIFIED ADS HELP WANTED Project Engineers (Opelika, AL) needed to custom design, develop, install & maintain factory automation system projects. Req. BS in Mechanical Engineering or closely related & 1 year closely related exp. Resume to Hana Factory Automation, 304 Fox Run Ave. Opelika, AL 36801 ------------HELP WANTED: Resident Services Coordinator Opelika Housing Development, Inc. is currently seeking highly motivated, experienced, and trustworthy candidates to fill the Full-time position of Resident Services Coordinator. Duties will include, but not be limited to: Oversee and coordinate programs offered by Resident Services. Develop a variety of educational and economic empowerment support services, activities, and programs for residents.

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Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in social work, social sciences, or closely related field plus 3 years of progressively responsible work in human services or social work, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

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Other: Valid Driving License Ability to be insured under the Authority’s vehicle policy To apply please visit our office, located at 1706 Toomer Street, Opelika, AL 36801 or complete an application on-line at http://www.opelikaha. org/Default.asp?ID=­ 123&pg=Employment­ +Opportunities

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1. Process invoices for payment in accordance with established procedures, i.e. code, verify that needed documentation is present, enter data into system 2.Verify that purchases are properly documented and approved in accordance with established procedures 3.Review and process contractor payment requests on a weekly basis 4 Resolve discrepancies in invoices, charges, and payments by contacting vendors, employees, or other appropriate means 5.Process credit rent utility reimbursements in

accordance with established procedures 6. Prepare Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) landlord payments and utility payments for participants in accordance with established procedures 7. Assist Senior Accountant with daily accounts receivable reports, including miscellaneous deposits, and take appropriate action to resolve any underlying problems or issues 8. Coordinate with bank officers to correct any errors resulting from direct deposits, charges, etc. in order to ensure the integrity of the bank account balance 9. Prepare and assist in preparing a variety of periodic and special reports 10. Post tenant rent charges for the beginning of each month.

11. Generate 1099’s annually, in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations, as needed Education: High school or equivalent (Required) License or certification: • Driver’s License

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B12 August 19, 2020

Like crossword puzzles? Sudoku?

Play online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/

B13

EXPERIENCE COUNTS.

August 19, 2020

It is an honor to serve the people of Opelika. Together, we have achieved a great deal and our city has prospered. But we’re not done yet! There is still work to do to ensure that Opelika reaches its full potential for all our citizens.

I would appreciate your vote on August 25.

Together, we can make Opelika an even greater place to live, work and raise a family.

Thank you,

ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS MAYOR: • • • •

Recruited over 4,000 jobs to Opelika Stopped the Quarry Promotes unity and equality for all Started the Commission on Crime and Violence in 2018 which led to Summer Youth Employment (YES!) program, Youth Incarceration Prevention Program (YIPP) and more Pre-K classes • Began a $2 million renovation to Covington Recreation Center • Developed the Carver-Jeter Plan • Worked to keep citizens safe and to minimize the economic impact during the COVID-19 pandemic

LOOKING FORWARD:

• Complete the new public library • Support our current industries and small businesses • Improve transportation infrastructure with two new corridors • Ensure all Opelika children have access to our First-Class Pre-K program • Make sure Opelika is a safe for all citizens and be the example for other cities in our state

Vote Gary Fuller on Tuesday, August 25 Paid for by Friends of Gary Fuller, P.O. Box 3, Opelika, AL 36803

B14 August 19, 2020

I

am Todd Rauch, and I am running for Opelika City Council – Ward 5. I answered the call to serve my Country in the U.S. Army as a Military Police Officer and was awarded the Purple Heart after my Team was ambushed while on patrol outside of Baghdad in August of 2003. I am once again answering the call to serve, closer to home, in our community.

Both my wife (Ali) and I are incredibly active and invested in Opelika! I have the pleasure of working in our community on a daily basis by growing funds for future community projects, exploring new community

FORUM >> FROM B8 for Economic Studies, only 18 percent of the people who are employed in Opelika actually live in Opelika.”

Gibson-Pitts said she will create business incubators, which will allow citizens to start their own businesses.

There was time for both mayoral candidates

Letter to the Editor

programs, and supporting non-profit organizations with community awareness opportunities like “Opelika Giving Day.” I am proud to serve on the board for the Museum of East Alabama, Opelika Chamber of Commerce “20 Under Forty” Leadership program, and the Opelika Kiwanis Club.

Additionally, I represent the City of Opelika on the Lee-Russell Council of Governments MPO Citizen Advisory Committee, which coordinates transportation improvement programs throughout Lee County.

My campaign for Opelika City Council – Ward 5 is built around dedication and hard to answer two questions provided by the Opelika Chamber of Commerce.

If elected as mayor of Opelika what are some of the initiatives you plan to develop to improve the safety of our city?

Gibson-Pitts said that by lowering the poverty rate, the crime rate will lower too.

“There are many nonprofits that I think that we should have as part of our budget that we can

work, because I believe the most effective way to run for office is to connect with each voter face-to-face by knocking on your door and asking for your vote.

Although COVID-19 has caused some challenges, after consulting with several health care professionals, we have implemented additional measures to make sure that we are taking every safety precaution when taking our message to your door. I am committed to creating a personal relationship with every person in Ward 5, by focusing on accessibility, communication & transparency. As your City Councilman, you will be counting on me to keep you informed

in advance on major projects, so we can have meaningful discussions on how it will affect you and your family’s dayto-day life.

So far, we have knocked on more than 4,000 doors throughout Ward 5. With Ward 5 being largest geographic ward in Opelika, that is not an easy feat.

Some of the issues that voters in Ward 5 have shared with me are new, but some have gone unresolved, leaving them frustrated and defeated when speaking out about issues in their neighborhood. Many of these issues involve safety concerns like excessive speeding and log-trucks using Lake Condy Road as a cut

through, or daily complications with water pressure on and around Etowah Avenue, or concerned homeowners on India Road worried about their property values due to erosion and flooding on their property after it rains.

Every issue is personal to the people that bring them up, and I try to put myself in their shoes to understand how they feel. I will give you a voice.

In addition to those issues, I am committed to focusing on 5 priority issues in Ward 5, which include: 1. Prioritize infrastructure improvements including waterways, roads, bridges and sidewalks.

help fund to make these things happen in our community,” she said.

Fuller said he believes that lowering crime starts at home and in school.

“That’s why this first-class Pre-K is so important that we start these kids very, very young,” he said. “And then we need programs for the children. One of the candidates earlier was talking about something at Covington, I’m

in favor of that.”

Good, stable, well-paying jobs are one of the foundational markers of a great city.

In reference to growing the business sector to continue to provide those jobs, please describe how your experiences negotiating or deal-making assist you in growing the business sector of Opelika.

Fuller said that during his time as mayor, he

has made 23 trips to Korea to meet with business partners.

“We need to make sure that we maintain those relationships with business people and work with them, whether it’s retail or manufacturing or whether it’s the service industry,” he said. “So, I’m all about good-paying jobs for our people.”

Pitts said she believes that if the city continues

This week’s puzzle answers:

2. Provide resources to Opelika City Schools, students, and teachers.

3. Focus on workforce development through recruitment and training programs.

4. Expand and diversify the Opelika Industrial Park 5. Improve and advance the recycling program throughout the city of Opelika I sincerely ask for your vote on August 25th! If you have any questions, please contact me at 334-610-1750.

Each and every vote counts. We are depending on you!

Thank You and God Bless, Todd Rauch Candidate for Opelika City Council to offer incentives to businesses, they will continue to come.

“What I would like to do is work with our economic development department to make sure we’re bringing more white collar jobs into our area,” she said. “Because when our students leave here and go off to college, they need to know that if they want to come home, there’s a place for them here.”