Opelika Observer - 09-09-2020 E-edition

Wednesday, September 09, 2020

Vol. 12, No. 49

pelika Observer O

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Opelika holds 2nd Town Hall meeting

By Will Fairless Associate Editor

The City of Opelika held the second installment of its town hall series last Thursday.

The meeting was called “Improving relationships with our youth” and featured a panel of seven community leaders, who spoke about how they try to improve the lives of the youth in Opelika then took part in discussions with Opelika citizens.

“Our youth are really important to all of us, and we’re interested in what they’re thinking, what their concerns are and what their ideas are.” Mayor Gary Fuller said at the beginning of the event.

The panel comprised: Kevin Haefner, Pastor at Church of the Highlands; Jeremy Gray, Alabama State Representative; Richard Curry, with the Boys & Girls Club; Skip Long, Manager of the Youth

Photo courtesy of City of Opelika

Incarceration Prevention Program; Kenneth Burton, Assistant Superintendent with

Opelika City Schools; Alfred White, sergeant with the Opelika Police Department;

Tiny Closet comes to downtown Opelika

By Will Fairless Associate Editor

and Sikuria McCurdy, School Resource OfSee OPELIKA YOUTH, page A3

Pharmavite to honor first responders

By Will Fairless Associate Editor Pharmavite, a producer of dietary supplements (most notably Nature Made vitamins, minerals and other supplements) with a factory in Opelika, is giving back to the community this September.

The company’s corporate office has given its east Alabama branch money to go back to its host community every year since Pharmavite established its presence in Opelika in 2013.

“We have a long history of giving back to the community since we’ve been in Opelika,” said Les Davis, human resources manager at the Opelika Pharmavite location. “Especially here in Opelika, we have a number of veteran employees, so we do a lot of giving back to the veterans.”

Davis said that this year on Sept. 11, Pharmavite wants to

Photo by Will Fairless/Opelika Observer

focus on giving back to Opelika’s first responders. The company will be purchasing and distributing gift cards to every member of the Opelika police, fire and sheriffs departments.

“Our point is just so they could get themselves a meal on 9/11,” Davis said.

The gift card idea benefits more than just the cards’ recipients, by design. All of the gift cards will be purchased from local restaurants as opposed to large chains.

“We love our Chickfil-A as much as the next person, but we’re gonna be focused on locally owned businesses in Opelika,” Davis said.

The gift cards will be given to the departments this week to be distributed among their employees.

“I want to make sure the focus is on the providers, on the first responders and businesses and everything,” Davis said. “We just want to say thanks to the people who protect us.”

Opelika Chamber of Commerce to host Cyber Security workshop Courtesy of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce

Taylor Jones, an Auburn graduate in fashion merchandising, is opening her boutique’s first brick-andmortar location in downtown Opelika.

The Tiny Closet Boutique located at 207 S. 8th St. is the first storefront for Jones and the Tiny Closet. “We’re really excited. We can actually like talk and chat, and I See TINY CLOSET, page A2

Opelika, Alabama

Is your business really secure in the virtual world?

Give your business a fighting chance against cyber criminals at this Cyber Security Workshop hosted by the Opelika Chamber of Commerce. Spon-

JARTHUR GRUBBS sored by River Bank & Trust, this workshop will be held on Sept.

17 from 8 – 9 a.m. at

the Hilton Garden Inn in Auburn.

CEO and Co-Founder of Cyber Security Solutions, JArthur Grubbs Jr., will lead the seminar and open your eyes to ways criminals can cause havoc within your business. Grubbs will discuss the challenges small businesses face with cyber security and the solutions he See HOSTING, page A2

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

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

Thank you Ward 5 Voters!

Your Support helped us finish in first place BUT it’s not over yet! We need your vote again in the runoff election on

Paid for by Todd Rauch for Opelika 1903 Arbor Ln. Opelika, AL 36804

Tuesday October 6th

A2 September 9, 2020

TINY CLOSET >>

“I feel like our stuff’s really different. There’s nothing in here that you’re gonna say, ‘This is really basic. I’ve seen this before.’ Because we’re not basic; we always want to have something fun,” Jones said.

She added that although her target demographic ranges from freshmen in college to new moms, anybody can wear her clothes. “We had a woman who I’m pret-

FROM A1

can help them,” Jones said. “We can build closer relationships with our customers, and that’s always been our biggest thing. It’s never been about an income to us; it’s always been about an impact. I’d much rather have women feel incredible in [our clothes] than make a sale.”

The online boutique, which has shipped clothes to every state in the country and to Australia and the UK, was started in 2017 while Jones was still in college. Its mission statement reflects Jones’s impact-over-income mentality; that statemenet is to “Be the CEO your parents wanted you to marry.”

“I want people to come in and when they put our clothes on, to feel like they are empowered,” Jones said. “They feel like a CEO, whether that’s being the CEO of your life, not even a company.”

The Tiny Closet, which started in a spare bedroom and spent parts of its existence in a 40-foot

HOSTING >>

line at www.opelikachamber.com.

has adapted to assist small businesses. He is an IT security veteran with more than 25 years of IT and information security leadership experience that includes designing, planning, implementing and managing operations for a world-class, global, 24/7 cyber intelligence and threat management center.

The event is free for Chamber Members and $20 for non-members.

Registration ends Wednesday, Sept.

16th at noon. Space is limited. Registrants will have the opportunity to attend in-person or virtually through Zoom.

Please register on-

About the Opelika Chamber of Commerce Founded in 1941, the Opelika Chamber has been serving the Opelika business community for over 75 years. Under the leadership of Ali Rauch, the president and CEO, a staff of four work diligently to be the prominent, focal business organization supporting economic growth while sustaining a better quality of life for the community through multiple partnerships. The Opelika Chamber of Commerce promotes and fosters economic and business success, maximizes member investment, while enhancing the community.

FROM A1

bus and small office space in Auburn, is now an open plan store that Jones has tailored to fit her customers’ wants. “I want it to be a photo spot; I want it to be a place where people want to post about it,” Jones said.

The obvious photo spot, which Jones imagines will be fea-

pelika Observer

O

ty positive was in her 80s, and she bought a crazy sweater from us, and I was like, ‘Cool, you can rock it, you can do it.’ We have a little of it all for everybody.”

The Tiny Closet’s grand opening is Sept. 10, and it is always open online.

To learn more about The Tiny Closet, visit their website (shopthetinycloset.com) or Facebook page (The Tiny Closet Boutique).

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

tured in free, customer-created marketing, is a couch sitting in front of a pink neon sign that is at least six feet tall and reads, in cursive, “Clothes before bros.”

Besides making the space ideal for her customers, Jones said she will continue to adapt its contents to their tastes. She’s

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

www.opelikaobserver.com

216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801

CORRECTIONS

always kept her stock rotating to reflect the latest trends and current seasons, but she said the physical location will give her an opportunity to hear what her patrons are looking for. There will be some things sold exclusively at the Opelika location, likely including items in orange and blue.

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A3 September 9, 2020

City of Auburn to provide coronavirus relief

By Hannah Lester

hlester@opelikaobserver.com

Some Auburn residents have been hit harder than others by the coronavirus pandemic, but the city of Auburn is stepping up with assistance.

The city announced Wednesday that it will accept applications for COVID-19 emergency assistance beginning Sept. 9.

“Residents who are income-eligible and whose incomes have been affected by the pandemic may apply,” the city’s release said.

OPELIKA YOUTH >>

FROM A1

ficers with the Opelika Police Department.

The following are selected parts of what each panelist said when introducing himself or herself.

Haefner: “I have the privilege to lead our church of the highlands campus her in Opelika. What I get to be a part of is getting to watch our families grow up. We like to call them the next generation, and I feel like there’s such a need to add value not only to ourselves, but also to our youth. We do that through small groups, connecting with them, we have an app called a serve app, where we’ve got opportunities to serve our city. What I see us doing is just partnering with our youth.

I believe everyone wants to be needed and known. I’ve got three little kids, and I want them to feel like they’re needed and known, by each other and God.” Gray: “Along with my job as state representative, I am also the founder of the Curtis House. I’m able to leverage my seat and figure out where the resources are. I get things like the community service grant, and that’s kind of how I am able to contribute. When I started the vision of the Curtis House, I just wanted to help kids in my community. To see a kid is basically to see myself. I understand the environment and the barriers of living in an impoverished area.

My job was to create 100 “me.” 100 people who have the opportunity to go to college, who have confidence to believe that whatever they put their minds to, they can do. I feel like in an impoverished area, where your environment is not conducive to success, that mental struggle, physical struggle, the lack of resources… The Curtis House acts as a hub to create productive people. I just want to create productive kids.

They’re gonna stimulate the economy of

Opelika, Alabama and the nation.”

Curry: “I have the pleasure and honor of serving as the CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of greater Lee County. Our mission is clear: it’s to inspire and enable all young people, especially those that need us most, to realize their full potential as caring, productive, and responsible citizens.

Headlines remind us every single day that our young people are in crisis. We want to make sure that when you walk out that door, regardless of your circumstance, those people ages 6-18 have academic success, healthy lifestyles, and good character and leadership. There’s five key elements to our positive youth development strategy. We want to make sure that all of the kids that walk in our doors and in our community that it’s a safe and positive environment, that it’s fun, that there are supportive relationships, that there’s opportunities and expectation, and that there’s recognition because everyone likes to be recognized. Feel free to reach out if you ever need us or if there’s ever anything that we can do for you.”

Long: “Part of my work is as the project manager for the Opelika Youth Incarceration Prevention Project. I need you to say these words, ‘Opelika is a city of hope.’ See, here’s the hope: as we engage with young people, there are three things that we do under this youth incarceration initiative.

Part of it is that it’s very important for kids to be involved with their education; it’s very important for them to understand, and for us to understand, mental health; and the third is getting, as Jeremy said, these jobs skills, this training, that’s gonna help them be successful.

The real goal is to cut the recidivism rate. The rate right now is about 57%. Our goal is, here in this city of hope, to get it down to 10%. The other part of what we do is really engaging with parents. As you hear about young people, my heart is around parents.

How do you get the

skills so that you do what you need to do so that these things happen in your home? Your kid is nurtured, given all the tools they need to be successful. Your kid is given a great education and given the skills so that when they get 18, they can get the heck up out your house. Part of what I spend my time, is as a communicator, a connector, a convener to help not only young people, but connecting with others that are engaged with the lives of these young people.”

Burton: “As a part of my primary responsibilities as assistant superintendent, I’m responsible for student safety. I’m responsible for our child nutrition program. I’m responsible for transportation. I’m responsible for our facilities. It’s important, in all of those areas, to make sure that our kids have the best facilities and receive the best education possible. We have a slogan for Opelika City Schools: “Every child, every day.” I’m gonna say it again: “Every child, every day.”

How do we accomplish that? By providing highly qualified teachers and good facilities.

We provide breakfast and lunch. We provide guidance. We try to meet the whole child.

And I am proud to be a native, born and raised right here in Opelika, and I am able to give back in the position that I hold for Opelika City Schools.”

White: “What my division does is pertains mostly to juvenile crimes and crimes committed against juveniles. The kids, unfortunately, usually see me when these other programs fail. We aren’t just a lock-upand-throw-away-thekey division, we work closely with juvenile probation, and we are lenient when we need to be lenient. Our ultimate goal is to, if there is a kid who is disorderly or unruly, then hopefully we can get them on a track while they’re still young, manageable and teachable, and correct that before they become adults. I think that’s what every police officer here at the Opelika

Police Department would want when they are dealing with a juvenile, so that when they become adults, they can be productive citizens.

If we didn’t have this particular division in the OPD, you’d see a lot more crime by adults and also by juveniles. While we are an enforcement division, we try our best that we can to prevent crimes.

We are also a counseling division. We’ve had parents who say, ‘My son or daughter hasn’t necessarily committed a crime, but they’re misbehaving in school, they’re not doing classwork, they’re not doing what I want them to do, and could you just come talk to them?’ And we say sure. Sometimes it works, and sometimes we have to do several talks, but essentially, we’ll do whatever it takes and do the best that we can, to not just dismiss [a juvenile] as a delinquent, but to also provide them with a lecture if we need to or maybe even a little bit of punishment or tough love if we need to.”

McCurdy: “Basically, we are at the schools to have security and to let our youth know that we’re there to help them in any way we can.

Social media and all the other things make police officers out to be bad people, but we are there to assure them that all police officers aren’t bad. We’re in the works of trying to offer a mentorship program.

I tell people, ‘Do not let things dictate what you are going to be in the future.’ I started off in corrections, and from seeing the young kids come into the prisons, I said, ‘I want to get near and dear to the community,’ so I applied to the OPD, and I got an opportunity to work in the community I was raised in. What we try to do is reach the youth before they get to the point where they become incarcerated. We give them that tough love if needed and try to direct them in the right path.”

After the panelists introduced themselves, the public attendees split into groups of young and “young at

“Funds are available for rental, mortgage and utility assistance. Funds will be paid directly to the landlord, financial institution, mortgage company or utility provider.”

The city received the money from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act passed by Congress.

This act specified that $5 billion be provided to Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus funds.

Out of $5 billion, the city of Auburn received over $379,000 to help the residents of the city.

“The Community Development Block Grant program develops communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment and expanded economic opportunities primarily for low- to moderate-income families and individuals,” the release said.

Residents can apply by picking up an application at the Community Services Department at the Boykin Community Center (400 Boykin Street.)

The application can also be returned there.

heart,” aka adults. The panelists were also split up, and they engaged with these smaller groups directly. Then the entire assembly reconvened in its earlier form to talk about what had been said in the smaller groups.

In summarizing the conversation he had with the adults, Curry said that they thought it was important that a discussion like this be only the beginning of a much longer conversation in the future. “We have to be intentional in going to [the youth] to get their input. We have to be mindful of the name that we are putting on our young people and also give them opportunities to be able to just be kids and have fun,” he added.

Doing the same for the younger small group’s discussion, Gray said that the kids’ input was

the other side of the same coin. “They wanted a platform to speak, they want to voice their opinion. They feel like they’re not heard,” he said. One of the ideas that they came up with was to have an event similar to the town hall, held at the high school, with the youth taking the lead and the adults staying silent.

Both the youth and the adults emphasized the latter’s need for safe spaces to do the things they want to do, to have fun. Specifically, places to play video games, sports and generally hang out away from homes.

The third installment of the city’s town hall series is Sept. 24 from 6-7 p.m. in the Municipal Court Building, and it is titled, “How we can better communicate and improve community relations.”

KNOW your status MANAGE your health LIVE your best life For more information about free HIV Testing and services, call 1-800-228-0469.

A4 September 9, 2020

Brunswick stew and me In the fall a young man’s fancy Turns to thoughts of barbecue Anon

B

ooks are good for you.

I always learn something when I read.

The other day I read Searching for the Dixie Barbecue: Journeys into the Southern Psyche by Wilber W. Caldwell.

And I learned something.

Caldwell made me realize why I never really cared for Brunswick stew.

Now I don’t necessarily dislike Brunswick stew, it’s just that most Brunswick stew I have eaten has left something to be desired. At least by me.

(Let me pause here to observe that among the many good points

Caldwell makes, the most important is that if you or I or anyone else thinks that a particular stew or barbecue or whatever is better than another, then it is.

There is no use trying to convince you or me or anyone else otherwise.

Case closed.)

I have eaten a lot of stew, and what I ate was nothing like my Daddy’s.

Daddy.

I can see him now, standing over a large pot on the stove out at his Poutin’ House, stirring with one hand and with the other raising a glass filled with something he sipped reverently while what he stirred filled the room with a smell that can be experienced but not described.

Daddy is gone, but before he died, I figured that I, as his heir appar-

By Hardy Jackson ent, would one day be responsible for carrying on the stew tradition.

So I asked him how he made it.

And he told me, “Ask your mother.”

And I did.

And she gave me the recipe.

Clipped out of a magazine.

“Easy Brunswick Stew.”

A Magazine?

Easy?

An Evel Knievel stunt, a wedding reception, and “calculated” risks

S

nake River Canyon, Idaho-- September 8, 1974. My cousin Jane’s wedding to her boyfriend John was held at the lovely 18th century chapel at Brown University, in Rhode Island. We traveled off-campus for the reception. For me, a cousin’s wedding and becoming 18 that May might have sufficed. But Evel Knievel was definitely on our minds. Boy was he!

Yesterday was September 8, 2020.

I recently returned from the site of daredevil Knievel’s 1974 attempt to cross the Snake River Canyon in a rocket-powered motorcycle. He was at peak popularity as a courageous self-promoter. Last week at an Idaho visitor’s center I saw a “premier” ticket to the stunt, which cost $25; Knievel earned $6 million for his

C

YNTHIA— I’m depressed because I’m stuck indoors because I have a compromised immune system. I miss my husband. He died two years ago from a stroke and I’m still learning to be an old widow.

You mentioned once you play online Scrabble, I love that game and wanted to know will you play me sometime? I’ll warn you though, I’m pretty darn good and I don’t ever lose.

DAN— Dear Sean, I have been depressed for the past fifteen years off and on. It doesn’t matter why because I

Greg Markley efforts.

At the 1974 reception, only a few people did not go to the bar to watch Knievel’s attempt on TV; even fewer did not want an update. Finally, the rocket lifted off, but the parachute opened early. Knievel said later that he might have drowned, due to a harness malfunction keeping him strapped in the vehicle. He had minor physical injuries. Cynics claimed Knievel set off the chute on purpose, but he said, “No!” He felt

cheated by the short ride—but he kept the $6 million!

Closer to home, many students recently started the Fall 2020 term at Auburn University, Southern Union and other post-secondary schools. Especially if in the 18-30 age bracket, most of them may enjoy taking personal or professional risks. But it’s advisable to evaluate the downsides of a risk as much or even more than the upsides.

You may have heard the term “calculated risk.” Writingexplained.org defines it as “A chance that is taken after a careful estimation of the possible outcomes. People use this expression when the possible gain is worth more than what will be lost if the action fails.”

Sometimes we have scant time to deterSee MARKLEY, page A5

Sacrilege!

I was expecting a treasured family recipe handed down from generation to generation, first by word-of-mouth and then copied and recopied on note cards now yellow with age.

I should have known better. I should have known that despite all the ink spilled praising Southern cooks who cook “from scratch,” my Mama was one of the many Southern cooks who abandoned “scratch” for convenience.

Like she did with “easy Brunswick stew.”

Here is how she and Daddy made it.

Get yourself a 4-5 lb.

Boston Butt. Put it on to boil and cook it 2 ½ hours. (Now if you already have one of those that is smoked and sold for high school fundrais-

I

ers, or have some pork left over from the last time you cooked out, that’s OK.) While it is cooking, if it is cooking, put into another pot the following: 4 cups of frozen cubed hash brown potatoes (why spend all that time cubing when you don’t have to?)

3 (14 ½ oz) cans of diced tomatoes with garlic and onion (all cans in the recipe are about this size) 1 can whole kernel corn, drained 1 can cream style corn 1 can sweet green peas, drained 1 bottle barbecue sauce A little hot sauce, a little salt, a little pepper When the meat is cooked and cool, shred it.

Put the shredded meat into the pot with the

rest, boil and stir and (if you are Daddy) sip.

So what, you may ask, makes this generic Brunswick stew, clipped out of a magazine, any different for the Brunswick stew you eat in barbecue joints and which author Caldwell says reminds him of the stew served in school cafeterias around the South?

Well, I’ll tell you.

It’s the lemon.

Right.

While everything is simmering, Mama added her special touch.

Deviating from the recipe, she sliced a lemon thin and put it in the pot.

Sometimes two.

And so it came to pass that later, when hungry folks spooned through a steaming bowl of stew that tastes like it was See JACKSON, page A5

Southern Folk & Foul Words

’m going to open up a little can of worms today. I feel it is necessary to learn to pursue my curiosities, as an aspiring journalist. I also believe in humble honesty. And as you, my readers, are so very kind, what better place to share and grow than here?

A little humor and a little more thought can go a long way.

What was foul language like in your home growing up? Also, where does it stand in your life today?

I have a comical and far too familiar connection with foul words. They were not used too often in my home and when they were, I got to see a burnt biscuit fly across my kitchen or enjoy my mother acting silly

By Bradley Robertson when chatting on the house phone with one of her girlfriends.

My grandmother, Gaga, whom I wrote about recently, was hysterical with the words “Oh hell” or “piss it.” I vividly remember being at a hotdog stand with her around the age of 8 and she slipped up somehow and made a mess.

She quickly let out an “oh hell” right next

to me and then began to chuckle. I laughed right along with her, having no care for the offense.

Sometimes for no reason at all, she would let the words just fly out of her mouth. She would look right at me and smile and snicker.

It was like our own inside fun. I knew there was something sneaky behind her words, but I didn’t care. I was laughing and sharing a moment with my grandma. These memories, foul or not, bring back silliness in me today.

When I was growing up, it was rare for my father to get upset. But per memory, when he did, it was because he had burnt something.

You see, my dad loves to eat food and he loves to cook food, so when food was burned See ROBERTSON, page A6

Dear Sean now realize that it’s a chemical thing and it’s just the way I’m made and I’ve gotta deal with it.

In May I tried to do the ‘stupid thing’ [suicide] you mentioned in your earlier column but I called my mom and she saved me.

She found me in a bad place and never judged me even though I was in a really bad place.

I’ve been on and off meds for a year and I go to therapy but it’s a never ending war. This ‘rona has really been hard for me. Thanks for listening. I’m not going to give up and I don’t think anyone else

By Sean Dietrich should give up. My mom is awesome.

GAIL— I’m 79 and I have never been this depressed in my life.

My kids threw me a birthday party when I turned 79 in June but

I was only pretending to have a good time, inside I was wondering what the point is to being alive. I live in Ohio.

Visit me.

HELEN— Can’t you see that you’re just part

of the fear mongering Sean? Quit scaring everyone into an early grave. OK, Depression is a thing. OK, we get it OK? But people like you are focusing on the virus and it’s making it only worse.

JOHN— I lost a brother to suicide. I also work in the mental health field; I want to share the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800273-TALK. They also accommodate members of the Deaf community online. Thank you.

MELODY— Yeah, I’m depressed. I feel like a real weakling for saying it, because I have a really good life and a

great family … I never had problems before, and I always believed people with depression were just looking for attention until now. I made an appointment with a counselor in my church because I know there’s a light at the end of this tunnel. I hope I find it.

CHELSEA— So I started drinking a lot, Sean. Before this quarantine the problems were already there but not that bad, but then it just went all to [deleted]. I didn’t want to admit I’m an alcoholic but that glass of wine wouldn’t let me See DIETRICH, page A5

A5 September 9, 2020

Dear Editor, September is Suicide Prevention Month and it's important that we are there for each other and take steps to prevent suicide. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's theme for the month is to #KeepGoing, by taking simple actions to safeguard our mental health and save lives.

From learning the warning signs for suicide

and what to do if you are worried someone is struggling, to bringing education programs to your community, we can all learn new ways to help each other save lives.

One action I'm taking is to urge my public officials to prioritize suicide prevention and mental health. When someone is in acute crisis, it's hard for them

to think clearly, and even reaching out for help can be a struggle.

For this reason, it is vital that Congress pass the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act (H.R.4194/S.2661) to make a three-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline a reality. This legislation will provide the funding and resources needed by crisis centers

JACKSON >>

FROM A4

across the country that support those struggling with their mental health and thoughts of suicide.

In this time of uncertainty, we all need to find new ways to connect and support each other.

Together, we #KeepGoing.

Sincerely, April Holdridge

made from a magazine recipe, all of a sudden, a shot of sour assaulted their taste buds and they knew that they were into something special.

It’s the “whang.”

That makes the difference.

Though I have eaten Brunswick stew that is said to be the best, I never found that bit of lemon, never got that

whang.

And without the whang, Brunswick stew is just, well, Brunswick stew.

With the whang, even Brunswick stew can be something special.

Sorta like life.

Life is better with the whang.

Harvey H. (Hardy) Jackson is Professor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville State University. He can be reached at hhjackson43@gmail.com..

VA encourages supporters to 'Be There' for veterans, connect with resources Courtesy of CAVHCS September is Suicide Prevention Month, and Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS) wants to remind veterans and their loved ones through the Be There campaign that small actions can make a big difference to veterans experiencing difficult times.

CAVHCS remains committed to spreading awareness of suicide prevention to veterans and their supporters and

MARKLEY>>

FROM A4

mine if a risk is worth it. In 1981 my friend Kieth and I were riding on the winding Transmountain Road in El Paso, TX. Keith said to me suddenly, “Have you ever ridden in a car at 95 miles per hour, downhill?”

I said, “No, why?”

He said “Well, we are doing that now!”

A more sensible risk occurred when I was driving the Autobahn, or federal motorway, in what was then West Germany. I knew European vehicles can get behind you fast with very high speeds.

DIETRICH>>

FROM A4

go … I’ve been going to meetings online now and I have accountability and I just wanted to say that I’m sober now for a whole four months and other people can do it, too. Trust me, if I can do it…

LORIE— I’m going to get help for me my kids and for my grandkids … I’m 62 and so depressed that I can’t see what the point to everything is anymore, I’m gonna do the help thing and let someone in. I thought about ending it all one time and it scared me that I would even go there.

MARK— Been staying home every day from the virus. Don’t

connecting them to the resources they need during this and every month.

“We understand that these unprecedented times can cause additional stress and hardship,” said Amir Farooqi, CAVHCS interim director. “And that is just one of the reasons why CAVHCS is committed to being there for Veterans in need.

We need everyone to get involved. This September, and all year, I encourage everyone to be there for veterans and others in need. Suicide is a com-

plex national public health issue that affects us all.”

Be There suggests several simple actions that can help make a difference for a veteran, including: ▪ Learning about the warning signs of suicide, found on the Veterans Crisis Line website ▪ Watching the free S.A.V.E. training video to learn how to respond with care and compassion if someone indicates they are having thoughts of suicide ▪ Contacting VA’s

Coaching Into Care program, where a licensed psychologist or social worker will provide loved ones with guidance for motivating veterans to seek support ▪ Sharing stories of hope and recovery from VA’s Make the Connection ▪ Reaching out to the veterans in your life to show them you care by sending a check-in text, cooking them dinner or simply asking, “How are you?”

For more informa-

tion and resources visit BeThereForVeterans.com.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive free, confidential support and crisis intervention available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, text to 838255, or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.

About Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System Central Alabama Vet-

erans Health Care System exists to provide excellent services to veterans across the continuum of healthcare. We take pride in providing delivery of timely quality care by staff members who demonstrate outstanding customer service; the advancement of health care through research; and the education of tomorrow’s health care providers.

Achieving the best possible outcomes for veterans is our top priority. Stay connected with us on Facebook.

Though the reunited Germany has general limits now, in the past a driver had to be prepared to hit 100 mph on occasion. Unlike what is typical in the United States, once a driver passes someone slower, they usually return to their normal lane.

The phrase “calculated risk” originated in World War II. Military leaders would weigh all factors to predict the likelihood a military action would have of failure. Conversely, they would measure those estimates against possible rewards if the mission were to succeed. Famed aviator Gen. Jimmy Doolittle was great at this,

leading his pilots to triumph after triumph.

Although the spotlight shone on the Snake River during Evel Knievel’s day, risk-taking there survives with “base jumpers” who take their chances differently with their parachuting. The I. B. Perrine Bridge is the most famous such structure in Idaho and is said to be the only manmade place in the U.S. where BASE jumping is allowed year-round without a permit.

“BASE" is an acronym for four categories of fixed objects from which one can jump: building, antenna, span, and earth. The Perrine spans 993 feet

between springings and is the 4th highest arch bridge in North America. The Perrine is called the Potato Bridge, after one of Idaho’s top crops. Its 48-story drop is exciting for BASE jumpers the world over.

High bridges are the safest of the BASE categories to jump from but four deaths have occurred since 2002. In 2019, a veteran risk-taker from California died at age 38 when he opened his parachute too late. His newlywed wife joined him on the Idaho jump; she survived.

Sept. 8, 2020. Evel Knievel failed on his Snake River jump in 1974 yet remained a

successful showman.

He died at age 69, in 2007; nine months after being baptized as a Christian. In 2016, Eddie Braun, a movie stuntman and childhood fan of Knievel, successfully crossed the Snake River in a rocket. His attempt was less showmanship and more workmanship.

The college student who kept abreast of Knievel’s jump at the 1974 wedding reception became a journalist in Alabama. His newly-married cousin

and her husband never prematurely released a “parachute”: they are wed 46 years now.

Taking risks still has pros and cons. Often it is best to be more calculated than cavalier.

Be spontaneous but not beyond reason.

talk to my friends anymore, quit going to town because I get delivery on my groceries. Then I wash them down on the porch with sanitizer then I wash my hands with rubbing alcohol, but food doesn’t even taste good to me these days. I have been thinking that I’m sinking lower, Sean, into maybe OCD. I’m afraid to even leave my house because I might catch the virus and die.

You’re the first person I’ve told.

HARRIET— I’m a doctor, Sean …

Any light brought to the realm of mental wellness is welcome because it really is an anxious time right now. We have to educate people, the same way we do with

COVID-19, about depression and its triggers.

SAM— I wish my brother would have gotten help. He never talked to me, and we lost him. But now I talk to him every day. He loved Auburn football.

ERICA— My teenage daughter has been getting help and it’s made all the difference. I want parents to know that teenagers are affected by this stuff right now, too, and they don’t know how to tell you about it because their little brains don’t understand.

ME— I am overcome. I have been reading letters since this morning in response to yesterday’s

column. I have shed my share of tears. And I have felt my share of warmth. People are stronger than I ever imagined. Stronger than me, that’s for sure.

My words seem so feeble, but I truly mean them: Thank you. To anyone who took the time to send me a story, an email, a private message, a text or anonymous comments about your experience with depression, suicide or mental illness.

Once more, thank you.

I sincerely believe anyone who is struggling right now needs to hear the following words: May God bless you and keep you.

And Miss Cynthia, if it’s a Scrabble war you want, you’ve got one.

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.

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A6 September 9, 2020

Alabama Farmers Federation Honors Extension, Research Experts Written by Marlee Moore The Alabama Farmers Federation honored two Auburn University and Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES) specialists and professors this fall for work tangibly benefitting the state’s $70 billion agriculture industry.

Dr. Ron Smith received the Duncan Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Extension, while Dr. Brenda Ortiz earned the Rittenour Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Research. The honorees, who were nominated by farmers, receive $5,000 and $10,000, respectively.

The Federation’s Carla Hornady, the Federation’s Cotton, Soybean and Wheat & Feed Grain Divisions director, thanked Smith and Ortiz for their continued commitment to solving real-world agricultural problems.

“Dr. Smith has dedicated his career to helping cotton farmers thrive. His work has spanned major issues, and he has always made himself available to farmers,” Hornady said. “The trust and respect farmers have shown Dr. Ortiz reflects the positive impact her research and Extension work has had on farms across the state. It’s a pleasure to recognize these pioneers.”

Smith has been on the cutting edge of cotton entomology for 48 years, helping genera-

ROBERTSON>

FROM A4

beyond being edible, lighting struck. I have seen eggs, hotdogs, biscuits and even a steak thrown in my kitchen; alongside a choice word.

This brings about complete hysteria for me today. Burning food makes me pretty mad too. I made a whole pizza one time from scratch and

Dr. Ron Smith received the Duncan Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Extension and is pictured with new Extension entomologist Dr. Scott Graham, right.

Dr. Brenda Ortiz earned the Rittenour Award for Excellence in Production Agriculture & Forestry Research and is pictured with Jim Lewey of Geneva County, who nominated her for the award.

tions of farmers identify, understand and manage pests in Alabama’s estimated 15,000 cotton fields. Smith helped keep cotton farmers in business through implementing the Boll Weevil Eradication Program and encouraging adoption of genetically modified cotton.

“I am honored,” Smith said. “This is the first time I’ve gotten an award from the people I’ve tried

to help. That makes it most meaningful.”

Smith was raised on a small cotton farm near Moulton in Lawrence County. He holds a trio of degrees from AU — a B.S. in agriculture science, M.S. in agronomy and Ph.D. in entomology — and was hired as Alabama Extension entomologist in 1972.

Though he officially retired in 2003, Smith continues to serve

farmers as a contract Extension entomologist.

Smith’s research has helped farmers battle an evolving series of tiny cotton pests that cause big problems. Takeaways focused on understanding insect movement and migrations and the importance of timely spray application, thus preventing yield loss. Recent research has helped

burned it to a crisp.

Not only was there the stress of time put into the pizza, but we were left with nothing to eat.

I didn’t throw the pizza in my kitchen, but I did sling it out my back door. I don’t fully remember, but I’m betting I let a word or two slip out of my sweet, southern mouth.

My mother used a few words here or there, mostly in banter with her dear friends.

She clearly took after

my grandmother, for her words were not meant to harm, but to provoke a sense of fun.

My mother worked hard all my childhood.

I’m betting the few words and conversations she had over the telephone, however clean or foul, brought her a sense of joy that then fed into my family.

I was not hurt by foul language growing up, just the opposite.

It seems today, my

memory allows me to laugh and then even write about it, safe and secure in my roots.

However, I’m betting this does not ring true for everyone. We all have a different perspective, based on our experience.

Do you know of “inherent bias”?

It refers to the effect of underlying factors or assumptions that skew viewpoints of a subject under discussion.

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create a thrips prediction model; improve management practices for the stink bug complex, including the new invasive brown marmorated species; and determine how new genetic traits best fit into the Alabama cotton production system.

“When I started, I was helping growers,” he said. “Over 48 years, I became friends with those growers.

Now I’m helping friends manage their cotton. What more rewarding job could there be?”

Ortiz is a professor and Extension specialist in AU’s Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences Department.

She leads AU’s Precision Agriculture Research and Extension program focused on evaluation, demonstration and training on the use of digital technologies in agriculture. Current efforts concentrate on evaluating and demonstrating technologies such as sensors, controls and telematics for precision irrigation and precision planting.

Ortiz also leads a nationally funded Natural Resources Conservation Service project aimed at increasing adoption of best irrigation practices among Alabama farmers.

A Colombia native, 47-year-old Ortiz credits her work ethic, perseverance and determination to her parents and many mentors.

“This award is really recognition of my program and what we do as a team,” Ortiz said, referring to the

students and post-graduate students on her research and Extension team. “I want to motivate my team to learn applications of digital agriculture and show them the importance of the commitment that’s necessary to do good work.”

Ortiz said there is a lot of value in work done on campus and in the classroom — but believes working on the farm in real situations increases the opportunities for adoption of science-based solutions is best.

“When I came to the U.S. in 2004, I had worked with farmers, scientists, engineers and leaders in the sugar cane industry in Colombia,” she said. “When I came here, I had to prove myself again. I have been at Auburn University for 13 years, and the feeling of being recognized by the farmers and knowing they value what I do is more important than anything.”

The awards are named in honor of the Federation’s first president Charles Rittenour and Luther Duncan, who helped organize the farm organization in 1921 as director of ACES. Duncan later served as president of Alabama Polytechnic Institute, now Auburn University.

Regarding the idea of foul language, I would say many people detest it to be spoken.

I would guess that it even scares some people. I would bet for some, it goes in one ear and out the other.

And for many, the words are used often, as if it’s normal and acceptable. There can be trauma related to foul words, or as in my case, they can evoke happy thoughts and laughter.

A handful of people will have a completely different viewpoint on foul words, directly related to their past experiences.

Before we can understand one person’s idea on language, we have to first understand where they come from. When we have an open mind and can listen, only then will we see that their reasoning makes sense.

Even if we don’t agree, at least we can be humble enough to understand.

Politics: the good, the bad and the very

ugly.

Tis the season. It’s here. And how will we respond?

We will not all have the same opinions. Nor do we all come from the same place or have the same background knowledge. However, we will assume we know all the right things because of where we have been.

Am I right?

We are entitled to every bit of our personal beliefs. It makes us human. It makes us think and ask questions and seek answers. It makes us American.

But at the end of the day, let us not be skewed by our own judgements of others.

Instead, let us be so confident and sure in our personal beliefs that if our neighbor dares to differ, we will still invite him over for a hamburger and a beer. If he turns down the offer, nothing you can do there. But at least you know you did your best and did it honestly and humbly.

About Alabama Farmers Federation The Alabama Farmers Federation is the state’s largest farm organization with 350,000 members and is a member of the American Farm Bureau Federation.

Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

UPCOMING EVENTS Sept. 12 and Sept. 19 Cookies, Chalk and Cops

Everyone in the family will enjoy homemade pizzas Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

P

izza is one food that seems to appeal to all ages. Thick or thin crusts, tomato sauce and lots of melted cheese make a scrumptious snack or meal served with a salad. Depending on the type of pizza, toppings can vary from meats to vegetables and even fruit, such as pineapple or figs. If you use a purchased crust, you can create a tasty pizza faster than you can order one for delivery.

One of the best pizzas I have tried was at Chef Todd English’s Olives restaurant in Las Vegas.

I am not a fan of Las Vegas, but at least there

are good restaurants there. The lunch pizza was covered in fig jam and topped with Gorgonzola cheese and thinly sliced prosciutto with a sprinkling of chopped scallion.

I did a search for the recipe and found it on Epicurious's website.

They ran the recipe with permission from Chef English, but since I didn’t have time to find the chef to get permission to run it, you will just have to find it on Epicurious for exact measurements. (I am hoping I can meet Chef English the next time we visit our son in West Palm Beach and go to

the chef’s new restaurant there.)

Katie Jackson has a similar pizza recipe made with fig preserves, prosciutto and goat cheese. Katie creates a variety of pizzas and uses purchased crusts and innovative toppings. Her Chicken and Pesto Pizza and Vegetarian Pizza are also delectable.

Our family has also savored delicious and unique pizzas at the Clear Skies restaurant on Clearwater Beach, Florida. The restaurant is located near the beach and has buy one get one free pizzas on Friday nights. We like

12th Annual Storybook Farms Derby Day finishes strong

By Hannah Lester

hlester@opelikaobserver.com

Derby Day 2020 at Storybook Farm was a success, complete with coverage of the Kentucky Derby, a Dapper Dan and Most Spectacular Hat winner and a lot of sold auction items.

Derby Day is held at Storybook Farm each year as a way to raise money for the nonprofit.

Storybook Farm uses horses to help children with disabilities such

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

as cerebral palsy, autism, cognitive delays or sensory issues.

Many in the community volunteer at

the farm, including Auburn University students.

See DERBY DAY, page A12

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garlic and a little olive oil or just use purchased tomato or pizza sauce.

Although you can use regular sliced or grated mozzarella, I really prefer fresh mozzarella that has been sliced.

The fresh tomatoes are optional. If you use them, select plum tomatoes, which don’t have as much juice, or use sliced cherry tomatoes.

Margherita pizza has an interesting history.

The story goes that on

June 11, 1889, Neapolitan pizza maker Raffaele Esposito created “Pizza Margherita” to honor the Queen consort of Italy, Margherita of Savoy. The pizza was topped with tomatoes, mozzarella and basil, to represent the national colors of Italy on their flag.

The history of pizza goes back to various ancient cultures that made See CIPPERLY, page A10

Sundown Concert Series coming to Kiesel Park hlester@opelikaobserver.com

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to go there with family and order a variety for the table. We can each try a different slice for something new.

My favorite pizza there is a Margherita pizza, made with San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced fresh tomatoes and a garnish of fresh basil. I have copied this pizza at home.

You can make a sauce with pureed San Marzano canned tomatoes,

By Hannah Lester

Avoid common mistakes the average investor makes

Blake Henry

Photo by Ann Cipperly Pizza can be made from a homemade crust, purchased crust, baked tortillas, pita bread, sliced French or Italian bread, portobello mushrooms or English muffin halves. Mushroom Pizza is pictured above, made by spreading pizza sauce over crust and topping with grated mozzarella cheese and lightly sautéed fresh mushrooms.

The leaves will soon change colors and the air will get cooler. Auburn Parks and Recreation is preparing for fall and has announced the Fall Sundown Concert Series.

The Fall Sundown Concert Series will

be held on Thursdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Kiesal Park, the department announced in a release.

The series will run for four weeks, Sept.

17 through Oct. 8.

H20 and Louisiana Fred will perform on Sept. 17. The Auburn Jazz Quartet will perform on Sept. 24. DJ K. Cole will perform

on Oct. 1 and there will be a surprise guest too.

"Guests should bring a lawn chair or blanket,” the release said. "Pets on leashes are welcome. Due to COVID-19, seating areas will be clearly marked to ensure social distancing. This event is free to the public.”

A8 September 9, 2020

Back The Badge Lee County presents: Cookies, Chalk & Cops

By Wil Crews SportsCrews@Opelikaobserver.com

Back the Badge Lee County is hosting multiple outdoor events, Saturday Sept. 12 and Saturday Sept. 19 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. to provide Lee County with an opportunity to show its support, respect and appreciation to all members of the law enforcement community.

“We are calling kids of all ages, from 1 to 101, to join us in thanking our law enforcement for National Thank a Police Officer Day,” the nonprofit’s Facebook page said.

The event will be held at two separate locations, the Auburn and Opelika Police Departments on Sept. 12. The Sept. 19 event, which is on National Thank a Po-

lice Officer Day, will be held at the Lee County Justice Center.

The planned activities include sidewalk chalking, a bake sale, safety talks with officers, police demonstrations, K-9 demonstrations and more.

Back the Badge Lee County is also asking for donations for personalized goody bags made for the officers that will

include a paracord key chain made by volunteers. You can contact BackTheBadgeLeeCounty@gmail.com to volunteer. Volunteers are needed for: baking goodies (cookies, cakes, brownies and lemonade), gathering goody bags to be delivered on Sept. 19, businesses where people can drop off supplies, gathering chalk and stencils,

assisting in making the paracord key chains (classes provided), delivering the goody bags and more. You can also sign up to volunteer at www.signup­genius.com/ go/­10C0D4C­A4AB2­ 2A1­F8C16-cookies1 The Bake sale will be used to raise money for nonprofits future events.

“We would love to see you come and support our law enforcement,

eat some great baked goods, draw some amazing chalk art and mingle with some of our local heroes that wear a badge,” the Facebook post said.

Back the Badge Lee County is a nonprofit that assists in showing gratitude to men and women of the badges of fire and law enforcement in the Lee County community.

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A9 September 9, 2020

Wreaths Across American encourage national remembrance of 9/11 Wreaths Across America wants to honor the “Freeport Flag Ladies” and those affected by 9/11, by uniting in national flag waving on Sept. 11 Courtesy of Wreaths Across America Wreaths Across America calls for every American to stand outside and wave a flag for one minute at 8:46 a.m. and then again at 9:03 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 11, 2020.

Five hijackers took control of American Airlines Flight 11 at 8:46 a.m., on Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001, and flew it into the heart of New York City and the northern facade of the World Trade Center's North Tower (1 WTC).

Five other hijackers crashed United Airlines Flight 175 into the southern facade of the South Tower (2 WTC) at 9:03 a.m.

Three patriotic women (Elaine Greene, Joann Miller and Carmen Foote) were moved to find an old American flag they had stored at home and stand on a hill in Freeport, Maine, waving that flag to honor victims following the events of 9/11. These women became nationally known as “The Freeport Flag Ladies,” and proudly hoisted the Stars and Stripes every Tuesday morning for the following 18 years.

Although they retired on Sept. 11, 2019, (their last 9/11 remembrance), the following Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2019, Wreaths Across America took the helm and continued the weekly flag waving tradition along US Route 1 in Jonesboro, Maine, on land donated by the organization’s founder Morrill Worcester leading to the new

Acadia National Cemetery.

Since that time, Mr. Worcester has added a mile stretch of American flags (105 in total) on both sides of the road that lead to the entrance of Acadia National Cemetery, which will open to the public for the first time on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2020. Mr. Worcester also donated the land for this new National Cemetery to be built in his hometown.

“Each Tuesday, we are joined by dozens of members of the local community and curious people stopping to be part of something meaningful,” said Karen Worcester, executive director, Wreaths Across America, and wife of Morrill Worcester. “Especially over the last six months, this flag waving has taken on new meaning for us all and given a spark of hope and patriotism during this difficult time in our country.”

Participants are encouraged to take video and pictures

of their participation in the national flag waving and share them with Wreaths Across America, their family and their friends to help REMEMBER, HONOR and TEACH the generation born after 9/11, how hard times can strengthen us as a nation. Please use the hashtag #FlagsAcrosstheCountry and #AmericaStrong when posting on social media and tag the Wreaths Across America Official Facebook page.

“My husband and the community’s commitment to the mission and continuation of this important weekly tradition has taken on the additional meaning of American unity during this uncertain time,” Karen said. “I hope Americans will see this as an opportunity to not only honor those directly affected by 9/11, but also to follow in the footsteps of “The Freeport Flag Ladies.”

Wreaths Across America is the non-profit organi-

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zation best known for placing veterans’ wreaths on the headstones of our nation’s fallen at Arlington National Cemetery.

However, the organization, in total, places more than 2 million sponsored wreaths at over 2200 participating locations nationwide and offers other programs throughout the calendar year.

These programs remember the events of 9/11 in their own way such as The Mobile Education Exhibit which will be visiting Kentucky in September and will join in the national flag waving effort.

Radio host Michael W. Hale of Wreaths Across America Radio will hold onair tributes, and the on-line store will be selling #AmericaStrong signs made by the brother of “Lone Survivor” Marcus Lutrell (who gave a special family message during the Wreaths Across America Virtual Concert now streaming on Showcase NOW).

You can sponsor a wreath for $15 at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/. Each sponsorship goes toward a fresh balsam veteran’s wreath that will be placed on the headstone of an American hero as we

endeavor to honor all veterans laid to rest on Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020, as part of National Wreaths Across America Day. About Wreaths Across America Wreaths Across America is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992.

The organization’s mission – Remember, Honor, Teach – is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as at thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.

For more information or to sponsor a wreath please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.

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A10 September 9, 2020

CIPPERLY>> FROM A7 flatbreads with toppings. Pizza probably evolved from focaccia and other flatbreads prepared in Naples, Italy. While Italian emigrants brought pizza to this country, it became popular after WWII when troops stationed

RECIPES ONE BOWL HOMEMADE PIZZA DOUGH

This is an excellent pizza dough that is easy to prepare. A neighbor from Tennessee gave me this recipe over 30 years ago. It has remained a family favorite.

2 ½ to 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 ½ tsp. sugar 2 tsp. salt 1 pkg. dry yeast 1 cup very hot tap water 2 Tbsp. oil In large bowl, mix 1 cup flour, sugar, salt and yeast. Gradually add very hot tap water and oil to dry ingredients. Beat one minute at low speed in an electric mixer, scraping bowl occasionally.

Stir in enough additional flour to make a soft dough. Turn out onto lightly floured board; knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Place in greased bowl; turning to grease top. Cover and let rise in warm place until doubled in bulk, about 45 minutes.

Punch dough down and divide in half.

Press each half into a greased 12-inch pizza pan, forming a standing rim of dough.

Add toppings and bake until golden brown in a 400-degree oven for about 15 to 20 minutes or cheese melts and crust is cooked.

HOMEMADE PIZZA SAUCE

This sauce is good for making Margherita pizzas with fresh sliced mozzarella cheese and fresh basil with a drizzle of olive oil. You can use regular grated mozzarella instead of fresh and add sliced plum tomatoes or cherry tomatoes.

28 oz. can peeled tomatoes (San Marzano is the best), drained 2 garlic cloves, minced ½ tsp. kosher or sea salt ½ tsp. dried oregano, optional 1 Tbsp. olive oil Place tomatoes, garlic, salt, oregano and olive oil in a food processor and purred.

Makes enough sauce for 4 pizzas. Keep in refrigerator or freeze.

MUSHROOM PIZZA

Spread pizza or tomato sauce over homemade or pur-

in Italy developed a love for the Italian flatbread.

While you can use purchased pizza crust or dress up a frozen pizza, try the One Bowl Homemade Pizza Dough. A neighbor from Tennessee gave me the recipe more than 30 years ago. I have made it dozens of times for my children,

who would request it on their birthdays. It is really easy and the crust is better than what some pizza places make.

The Easy Deep-Dish Pizza was also a favorite for our children, especially made with Italian sausage. I always kept the ingredients on hand, as it went together quickly. Using

the box of hot roll mix makes a tender, flavorful crust. Just mix it with water as directed on the box.

Along with homemade or purchased pizza crust, other bases for pizza can be portobello mushrooms, sliced French bread halves, English muffin halves, pita bread or baked tortillas.

chased crust. Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over top, then add lightly sautéed fresh mushrooms. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is lightly browned.

If using homemade crust, be sure it is cooked.

inside the Louisville, Ky. Antique Mall, where I have spent many happy hours!)

Tampixco Tortillas Pimiento cheese Bacon bits or pieces Chopped green onion Chopped tomatoes Bake tortillas until crispy, then spread with pimiento cheese, bacon, onions and tomatoes. Bake in a 350 degree oven until melted and bubbly.

Very tasty!

½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved 1 cup mozzarella or pizza cheese, grated Freshly ground pepper to taste Sea salt or other coarsely ground salt to taste Olive oil Spread pesto on pizza crust. Scatter chicken evenly over pesto. Lay sliced tomatoes on chicken.

Spread caramelized onions on tomatoes. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste on this layer. Cover with Parmesan and mozzarella/pizza cheeses. Drizzle with olive oil.

Bake at 400 degrees until bubbling.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

EASY DEEP DISH PIZZA

This goes together quickly and kids of all ages enjoy it!

1 box hot roll mix 1 jar pasta sauce 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Toppings, if desired: Italian sausage, cooked; sliced mushrooms, lightly sautéed, or pepperoni Mix yeast and flour packages in hot roll mix together; stir in 1 ¼ cups hot tap water and 2 Tbsp. oil.

Stir together well.

Pat into a 9 x 13-inch pan coated with nonstick cooking spray. Bring dough up sides of pan.

Pour in pasta sauce. Bake in a 375-degree oven for 20 minutes. Remove from oven; add a topping if desired and shredded cheese.

Return to oven and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes until cheese is melted and lightly brown.

HEALTHY PIZZAS

Margo Herndon The Healthy Pizzas are also a favorite of grandchildren. The base of the pizza is stone ground wholewheat tortillas, which are baked until crisp.

Margo will set out the toppings and let everyone make their own pizza.

Tampixco Tortillas (stone ground whole wheat, in dairy counter) Pizza sauce Monterey Jack, grated or shredded mixed Italian cheeses Bell pepper Turkey pepperoni Mushrooms Black olives Set oven to 400 degrees and bake tortillas for a few minutes until crispy.

Then, spread pizza sauce, cheese and toppings and cook until bubbly and brown. Really good and low in carbs and fat.

PIMIENTO CHEESE PIZZA Margo Herndon (Adapted from café

VEGETARIAN PIZZA

Katie Jackson One large (10-12inch) thin pizza crust (homemade or purchased), precooked Olive oil Two medium tomatoes, sliced thinly ½ cup roasted red pepper strips 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced ½ cup chopped olives (black, green, or mixed) Two sprigs fresh basil, chopped 1 ½ cups fresh baby spinach leaves ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved 1 cup mozzarella or pizza cheese, grated Freshly ground pepper to taste Sea salt or other coarsely ground salt to taste Brush crust with olive oil and scatter spinach leaves on crust. Lay sliced tomatoes on spinach.

Sprinkle olives, basil, red pepper strips and onions on top of tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Cover with Parmesan and mozzarella/pizza cheeses.

Drizzle with olive oil.

Bake at 400 degrees until bubbling. Serve warm or at room temperature.

You can use mushrooms, squash, eggplant and other vegetables on this as well, or make up your own vegetarian concoction.

CHICKEN PESTO PIZZA

Katie Jackson One large (10-12inch) thin pizza crust (homemade or purchased), precooked ½ cup pesto (purchased in jar or homemade) Two medium tomatoes, sliced thinly 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced and caramelized in olive oil or butter 1 ½ cups precooked chicken, diced

FIG AND PROSCIUTTO PIZZA

Katie Jackson One large (10-12inch) thin pizza crust (homemade or purchased), precooked Olive oil 1 pint fig preserves or 15 or so fresh figs, washed, stemmed and sliced in half 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced and caramelized in olive oil or butter 3 to 4 slices prosciutto, diced 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried thyme ½ cup goat cheese ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved 1 cup mozzarella or pizza cheese, grated Freshly ground pepper to taste Sea salt or other coarsely ground salt to taste Brush pizza crust with olive oil. Spread fig preserves or lay fresh figs cut-side up on pizza crust to cover. Scatter prosciutto and onions on figs. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and thyme on this layer of onions and prosciutto.

Cover with goat and Parmesan cheeses.

Drizzle with olive oil.

Bake at 400 degrees until bubbling.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Fig preserves will make this a sweeter pizza than the fresh figs. You can also use dried figs, but plump these up by pouring boiling water over them and letting them sit for 10 minutes or so, then drain off the liquid.

Margo Herndon creates healthier pizzas using stone ground whole-wheat tortillas, which are baked until crisp. The pizzas are a favorite of her grandchildren. Margo will set out the toppings and let everyone make their own pizza.

She also makes an interesting Pimiento Cheese Pizza that she

LINDA’S QUICK PIZZAS

Linda Fucci For those times when you look at the clock to see it is 5:30 and you have no dinner plans. Add a salad and you have a meal. I keep the bread in the freezer, a jar of Classico in the pantry and mozzarella and pepperoni are always in our refrigerator.

Pita bread (whole) or flat bread (I prefer white, but you may use wheat.) If bread is frozen, thaw.

Classico Tomato and Basil Sauce Whole milk mozzarella Your choice – use one or any mix of the following: Fresh thinly sliced Roma tomato – no more than 8 thin slices per pizza Fresh thinly sliced mushroom Cooked and thinly sliced Italian Sausage (cook sausage on broil until well done) Pepperoni Preheat oven to 400 degrees. It is best to cook this on a stone, so be sure the stone is hot before you add the pizza.

Spread a thin layer of sauce on pita/flat bread. Add mushrooms and/or tomatoes. Top with thin slices or shredded Mozzarella cheese.

Add pepperoni and/ or sausage to cover top, or end with the cheese for a meatless pizza.

Cook until all ingredients appear to be bubbly. Cut the pita bread in fourths or the flat bread in squares. It depends on your appetite as to how many pizzas will make up a serving.

You may portion out and freeze any sauce remaining for future Quickie Pizza making.

NO TOMATO GREEK PITA PIZZA

Emily Smyth Pita bread for crust Layer: Pkg. grated 6-cheese Italian cheese Generous slices pepperoni Chopped onions and green peppers Sliced black olives Crumbled feta cheese Parmesan cheese More Italian cheese, sprinkled on top

adapted from a café at an antique mall in Louisville, Kentucky.

Look over the following recipes and surprise your family this coming week with a homemade pizza. It will no doubt be requested many times by everyone in the family.

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

A couple of Greek peppers, optional Assemble pizza.

Cook in preheated 400-degree oven for approximately 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and slightly brown.

TWO INGREDIENT PIZZA CRUST

Terri Neighbors 2 cups self-rising flour 1 cup Greek yogurt Combine flour and yogurt, mixing well.

It stores well in the refrigerator. Terri greases the inside of a plastic bag and places the dough in the bag until ready to use.

Pat desired amount of dough onto a baking sheet. Add toppings of choice. Cook at 400 degrees until lightly browned.

HAWAIIAN PIZZA TOPPING

Pizza crust 2 cups tomato or pizza sauce 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into cubes, 4 to 5 cups; or two 20-ounce cans pineapple chunks, well drained 1 lb. unsliced ham, cut into cubes or chunks 2 to 4 cups shredded mozzarella Spread tomato sauce over crust. Layer with the pineapple and ham, then sprinkle with cheese. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is melted.

FRENCH OR ITALIAN BREAD PIZZAS

1 large loaf French or Italian bread, sliced horizontally 4 Tbsp. olive oil 4 Tbsp. butter 2 garlic cloves, minced 14 oz. jar pizza or spaghetti sauce 3 cups or more grated mozzarella cheese Can also add topping of choice Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Place olive oil, butter and garlic in saucepan and stir until butter melts. Place bread halves on cookie sheet. Brush cut live of each half with olive oil mixture Bake 5 minutes.

Top with sauce and grated cheese. Add any other toppings at this time. Bake about 8 to 10 minutes longer or until cheese melts.

Slice and serve.

September 9, 2020

Stepping forward or shrinking back?

T

he story in Numbers 13-14 looms over the biblical witness like a dark storm cloud. Its presence is especially felt in the Pentateuch, where it empties its rain and washes away a generation of people. It is a mountain top moment for Israel—essentially everything before had led to the men spying out the land, while everything after became a landslide as a result of the people’s rebellion.

For the attentive reader, the story raises a simple question that reverberates all the way back to Eden and forward to today: Do we trust God to do what is good, right and true, or will we be seduced into believing that He somehow isn’t entirely good and His promises can’t be counted on?

Israel had no reason to distrust Yahweh.

He had blessed their patriarchs with promises, rescued them from Egypt, forgiven them of great transgression (Ex-

Church Calendar • AIRVIEW BAPTIST CHURCH HOMECOMING 2301 Airport Road, Opelika Celebrating 69 years...Sept.

13,2020 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon and Lunch will follow Pastor: Dr Gary Walker – Praise and Worship: Doug Long • 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.

• 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 Sundays from 9:30 to 11 a.m. A Mass is also held on Sundays 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.

• 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– the page is UGBChurch • First Baptist Church Opelika The following are held in-per­ son and online on Sundays.

8:30 a.m. Tra­ditional Worship and Message at The Worship Center 9:45 a.m. Sunday School Hour 11 a.m. Contemporary Service at The 3:16 Center 6 p.m. Evening Worship and Message at The Worship Center 6:30 p.m. Church on Chadwick at Chadwick Lane in Auburn To watch services online, go to fb­copelika.­com/­media

odus 32), and was now ready to deliver them into the promised land.

While it’s true their wilderness experience had been difficult, it’s not hard to see how this helped them to learn to lean on God (Deuteronomy 8:3-5).

What made them give up on the promised land and God? 1) They weren’t grateful for what they already had. I’m not sure the destructiveness of ingratitude can be overrated. It’s among the first things Paul mentions in Romans 1 in his long list of ways that people departed from God (v. 21). As we sometimes do, Israel tended to focus on what they didn’t have. If you choose to go down this road, you start by asking why God hasn’t given you this or that.

This is followed by applying your emptiness (from not having whatever it is) to God’s character—if He is so good, then why doesn’t He take care of me (as

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

I see fit)? These are the steps to becoming a bitter believer and Israel walked in them.

2) They focused on themselves, rather than God. It’s all a matter of perspective. If we put our faith in the One who spoke the universe into existence, created man from dust and raised Jesus from the dead—we’re okay with whatever opposes us (that’s what Paul said in Romans 8:31). On the other hand, if all we see is ourselves, that’s an entirely different story and we’re likely to devolve into the grasshopper thinking that

Israel did.

3) They acted out of fear rather than faith.

Because they hadn’t filled up the reservoir of their heart with love for God by reminding themselves of all of the ways He had been good to them, there was a spiritual vacuum—a hole in their soul that fear quickly filled. It started with the ten spies (13:31-33) and spread like wildfire through the camp (14:14).

4) They were willing to settle for mediocrity rather than reach for blessings. Their big vision was to go back to Egypt and die or perish in the wilderness (14:1-4)! God wanted so much more for them than they wanted for themselves, but they wouldn’t have it! They chose the path of least resistance and ended up getting what they asked for. When you reach for blessings, you don’t hand God your bucket list (that is settling for mediocrity)—you give

Him your life and watch as He leads you (His bucket list for you).

Like Israel, God has a promised land waiting for us. Like them, our journey there will take us over some challenging terrain. We have the same choice they did, to put our confidence in Him or die in the desert.

On those occasions when we feel our faith faltering (and it happens to all of us), we need to think about these areas where they stumbled and ask God to help us make whatever course corrections are necessary. He will do it!

Stepping forward is always preferable to shrinking back!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6) You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: atasteofgracewithbrucegreen.com.

ABOUT BRUCE GREEN 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

A11

"Stand up and praise the LORD your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting. Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise."

— Nehemiah 9:5b

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

Church Directory

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 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ at

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

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

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

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

A12 September 9, 2020

OBITUARIES Tracey Bordeaux Wilson

Tracey Bordeaux Wilson was born on April 19, 1970 and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on Sept. 1, 2020. She was 50 years old.

She was preceded in death by her father, Dale Bordeaux; sister, Tiffany Dale Bordeaux; grandparents, Hugh Eastridge and Ellifair Eastridge, Vestal Bordeaux and Melba Bordeaux.

She is survived by her husband, Brent Wilson; children, Randi Beasley, Riley Wilson, and Lane Wilson; granddaughter, Everley Grace Nelson; mother, Elaine Eastridge Manley, and her second

DERBY DAY >>

FROM A7

A silent and live auction is held at Derby Day to raise funds that will last Storybook Farm all year long.

“You’re changing childhoods with every dollar that you spend at this event,” said Dena Little, executive director of Storybook Farm.

The auction is not all there is to Derby Day, however.

Guests come in proper Kentucky Derby attire, complete with hats.

Each year a ‘Dapper Dan’ and ‘Most Spectacular Hat’ winner is chosen.

“Of course everybody likes dressing up but it’s dressing up for a great cause,” said Liliana Stern, who is a professor at Auburn University and volunteers at Storybook. “And this is what

father Mike Manley; mother-in-law, Faye Smith (Russ); step-sisters, Jennifer Day, Lisa Manley; step-brother, Shane Manley; half sister, Amy Maldonado.

A funeral service was held Sept. 3, 2020 at Providence Baptist Church West Campus at 11 a.m. with Dr. Rusty Sowell officiating. Interment followed at Providence Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to Providence Baptist Church.

Ronald Wayne Ford

Ronald Wayne Ford, Sr. passed away

at his home, Aug. 31, 2020. Wayne was born in Dallas County on Aug. 11, 1952, the son of Euit Nover Ford and Lily Pearl (Cook) Ford. His father passed away prior to his birth, and his sister, Ruth, passed away when Wayne was a young boy. He often spoke of how much he adored his sister and how he loved sharing nutty buddy ice creams with her. His mother later married Loyd Dewey Campbell who raised Wayne as his own son, along with his siblings, Raymond (Sherry) Campbell, Renee (Scott) Melton, Faye (James) Jones, Lynn (Kyle) Lawley, and Kaye (John) Rea. Wayne attended Dallas County High School in Planters-

ville, Alabama and Wallace Community College of Selma.

He enjoyed working hard and spent most of his career working as an electrician and in maintenance and robotics, until his recent retirement from Mando, Inc. He married Brenda Pearl Richey on June 2, 1972, and they had three children, Heather Wynne (Ford) Sellers, Ronald Wayne Ford, Jr.—“Bubba”, and Amy Ruth (Ford) Brandon. By marriage, David Earl Sellers, Jennifer Shea (Justice) Ford, and Jarrod Dwight Brandon, were added to the family and were loved as Wayne’s own children, and the absolute joy of Wayne’s life was the bond and laughter

he shared with his grandchildren, Mackenzie Grayson Ford, Davis Benton Ford, William Reese Brandon, Jackson Ford Brandon, Dawson Edward Sellers, and a baby boy due Sept.

2020. Wayne loved his many nieces and nephews, and he had a special place in his heart for his granddogs.

Wayne was a Christian man who served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and choir member. Wayne served with his church mission team to build a church in North Alabama, and he gained lifelong friendships through that experience. He was an avid supporter of his children’s and grandchildren’s schools and athletics, always

cheering them on with encouragement.

Wayne loved to make others laugh. He loved to cook, especially on the grill, and he also had a passion for United States history and sports.

He is preceded in death by his father, Euit Nover Ford, mother, Lilly Pearl Campbell, father, Lloyd Dewey Campbell, infant brother, Eddie Ford, young sister, Sarah Ruth Ford, and brother in law, James Jones.

Wayne’s life was celebrated at his home on Sept. 3 at 2 p.m. with family and close friends.

The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this time.

makes this party very special.”

Neil Kalin won Dapper Dan and he beamed at the crowd, holding his basket of prizes.

“Seeing as though I haven’t won anything in about fifty years, and because of my age, at this stage in life … I’m a very happy, lucky person,” he said.

Danielle Hays won Most Spectacular Hat for one she made herself during her children’s nap time.

“For the current climate that we’re in, the turnout is fantastic,” Little said. “Everybody’s having a great time, the day is absolutely exquisite. The Lord has really blessed us with very low humidity, beautiful sunshine, the farm is beautiful. And so many people have worked so hard to make this possible for the kids at Storybook.”

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

A13 September 9, 2020

Junior League of Lee County awards grants to four local organizations Ceremony celebrates groups committed to serving girls and young women in Lee County Courtesy of Junior League of Lee County Junior League of Lee County named four community partners as 2019-2020 grant recipients in a socially distant outdoor ceremony on Friday, Aug. 28. Recipients included Girls on the Run, Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County and I Am My Brother’s Keeper Lori Marine, coordinator, represented Girls on the Run Lee County.

A grant of over $1,400 will support expansion of the program to area Title I schools.

Karlyn Edmonds, CEO, and Lindsay Han-

ner Cline, community engagement specialist, represented Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama.

A grant of more than $1,900 will be used to start the first Spanish speaking troop in the region in collaboration with Esperanza House.

Tenisha King, area director, accepted the grant on behalf of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County.

A grant of over $5,500 will support the organization’s Smart Girls Program. The Junior League of Lee County is a long-standing supporter of this program.

Trellis Smith, executive director, represented I Am My Brother’s Keeper. A grant of just over $1,000 will support

the organization’s “Girls Changing the World” initiative, which offers job shadowing, preparation and counseling.

“Despite an unprecedented year, we are proud and honored to support four incredible local organizations that are committed to advancing girls and young women in Lee County,” said Danielle Allison, president of The Junior League of Lee County.

“Each of these organizations has a unique purpose in their service to our community, and we are happy to have the opportunity to partner with them to support our shared missions.”

Auburn Reprographics sponsored the event through donation of the

large checks used for the ceremony.

The Junior League of Lee County, Inc., is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving

the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

The Junior League of Lee County’s mission is to serve school age

girls and young women in the local community by empowering them to build confidence and offering resources to help them overcome their challenges. Visit juniorleagueofleecounty.com for more information.

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Community Relief Blood Drive Friday, Sept. 11 | 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Tiger Town | Opelika, AL (Bloodmobiles near McDonald’s & Best Buy

Now testing all donors for COVID-19 antibodies

A14 September 9, 2020

COMICS

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

S

Glenwood Gators Prey on Rivals Lee-Scott Academy SportsCrews@opelikaobserver.com

By D. Mark Mitchell

OPELIKA THUMPS LANIER AT BULLDODOG STADIUM, 42-6

O

Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports

By Wil Crews

On the Mark

pelika (1-1, R=1-0) defeated Region foe Sidney Lanier (1-1, R=0-1), 42-6, in the home opener at Bulldog Stadium. The Bulldogs scored early and often in the Region opener.

Eric Watts scored his first of four touchdowns with 10:40 left in the first quarter after running 9 yards for the score. Rowton added the PAT to make it 7-0.

Less than six minutes later, quarterback Jackson Baites threw a 12-yard pass to Shawn Jones for a score; the PAT made it 14-0.

Later, Watts muscled his way two yards for a touchdown with 45 seconds left in the opening quarter. Rowton made the PAT, increasing the lead 21-0.

Lanier scored their only touchdown with 6:25 left in the first half when Anthony Schackleford caught a 42-yard pass from QB Bralen Jones. The extra point failed, leaving the Poets trailing by 15 points. Opelika’s Torianno Roberts ran 14 yards for the Dogs’ fifth touchdown, with eight minutes left in the third quarter. Rowton nailed

S

the PAT, making the score 35-6.

Eric Watts put an exclamation point on the win, scoring two third quarter touchdowns on 10- and 12-yard scoring runs. Baker Rowton made both PAT to finish 6-0 on extra points.

The offense was led

by Eric Watts, rushing for 103 yards and scoring four touchdowns, while Trevon Moore led the defense with 10 tackles, including 4 sacks.

This was a game Opelika needed after losing to rival Auburn High School last week and playing Eufaula this week on the road.

Eufaula and Opelika have played 31 times.

The first matchup was in 1938. The two teams played in ‘40s, ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘90s. The last game the two teams played was in 1995, a 34-21 Bulldog win.

Eufaula, 2-1 overall and 0-1 in the region, opened the season beating Carroll 50-7 in Ozark. Perhaps the biggest shock in this area, Eufaula beat Central 38-36 in their second game. Robert E Lee See SPORTS, page B4

Opelika City Schools will hold public budget hearings on Sept. 14 from 4 to 6 p.m. and on Sept. 15 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Meetings will be at the Board of Education office which is located at 300 Simmons St. in Opelika.

Last Friday, the Glenwood Gators opened regional play at home against rivals Lee-Scott Academy Warriors with a dominating 51-7 win.

The Gators looked unstoppable on senior night. The first half consisted of five straight scores by the Gators offense,

resulting in a running clock for the entire second half. The Gators defense was just as formidable, allowing only one first down by the Rebels in the first half and a morale-crushing pick-six by sophomore A.J. Harris.

Harris opened the scoring for the Gators with a long touchdown reception from quarterback Jackson Griner with 5:16 left in the first

quarter. Senior running back Kyle Robichaux built on his already impressive start to the 2020 season, finishing with 138 yards rushing and three touchdowns on the ground in total. Junior wide receiver Radonda Beauchamp added two scores of his own, with a touchdown catch and 80-yard touchdown run.

Lee-Scott’s best drive came in the third quarter as the Warrior runner

broke into the end zone for the team’s lone score of the game. Glenwood gained 350 yards on offense compared to LeeScott’s 213.

Glenwood (3-0) moves to 22-15 all time against Lee-Scott.

The Gators next game is scheduled for next Friday at 7 p.m. CST, against regional opponent Valliant Cross (11) at 301 Dexter Ave., Montgomery, Alabama.

Smiths Station suffers defeat in regional opener

By Wil Crews SportsCrews@Opelikaobserver.com

After last weeks’ disappointing loss against the Gardendale Rockets, the Smiths Station Panthers looked to bounce back, opening region play at home against rival Central Phenix City Red Devils this past Friday.

After starting the

season 0-2, the typically formidable Central looked unusually vulnerable. But, looks can be deceiving. The Red Devils executed a skillful - almost sinful game plan to defeat the Panthers 35-7 for their 12th straight victory in the series.

Central received the opening kick and began the first drive

of the game at their own 40. The Panthers appeared motivated on defense early - jumping around and clapping at the offense. With what was probably the most resistance the Red Devils saw all night, Central quickly faced a fourth and four before achieving a single first down. First year Central head coach

Pat Nix established his never-settling mentality from there. The Devils went for - and got - the first down, before moving methodically down the field. The Red Devils found themselves with another fourth down - this time 1-yard from the goal line – and went for it See PANTHERS, page B6

Improved Hornets still fall short to Talladega 27-19 Rick Lanier Opelika Observer

Head Coach Rob Carter said in his postgame interview, “I’m proud of our players, they fought hard all night.” Yes they did.

“We fixed some things defensively” Carter continued, and “our quarterback did a good job tonight” he

concluded. Both accurate assessments.

Senior QB Gavin Prickett did indeed have his best night playing both offense and defense. At QB, he hit WR Keyshon Tolefree for a touchdown pass and rushed for another score. On defense, Prickett logged three solo tackles at safety.

Offensively, the Hornets were in rhythm most of the night. Running Backs Trent Jones and Landon Hodges, along with Prickett and a much improved offensive line, established a bruising counter run game which wore down Talladega’s defensive front and dominated time of possession. The

Hornet’s also unveiled a new-look “Wild Hornet” formation which helped account for over 250 total rushing yards for the game.

The Beauregard’s defensive coaches during this week’s preparation must have known that their assignment was a tough See HORNETS, page B4

B2 September 9, 2020

J.F. Drake Middle School awarded bicentennial plaque

PLAYER OF THE WEEK The City of Opelika is proud to sponsor the Opelika High School Player of the Week.

We applaud you for your HARD WORK and DEDICATION on and off the football field.

TREVON MOORE 10 TACKLES AND 4 SACKS

IT’S THE OPELIKA WAY.

GO DAWGS! #myOpelika • #beOpelika www.opelika-al.gov 2018 observer

By Hannah Lester hlester@opelikaobserver.com

Alabama recently celebrated its bicentennial celebration and children had a chance to participate in their schools.

J.F. Drake Middle School received a plaque this week in celebration of the school’s bicentennial project, according to press release from Auburn City Schools on Sept. 1.

The project, which was led by the teachers in J.F. Drake Middle School, focused on World War I in Alabama, called ‘Remembering the Great War.’ “At the time of the exhibition a team of 6th grade students researched various aspects of the war and were on hand to offer additional information to the public through panel discussions, artifacts and themes of the exhibit,” the release said.

The Alabama Bicentennial Commission awarded 21 legacy awards and 41 commendations to community organizations and schools.

“Auburn City Schools wants to

thank the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts and Humanities in the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University and the Alabama Department of Archives & History, along with the assistance of Associate Professor Shu-Wen Tzeng, Dr. Mark Wilson and Industrial Design students in the College of Architecture, Design and Construction for their collaborative efforts to make this opportunity a reality for our students,” said Daniel Chesser, ACS public Relations Coordinator.

“The Leopards at J. F. Drake put together an amazing two-day exhibit that allowed

students to really showcase their skills when it comes to sharing Alabama history.”

The bronze plaque will be located in J.F. Drake Middle School.

“Alabama people, communities and organizations showed their creativity and resourcefulness throughout the commemoration, but nowhere more than in the programs and projects they brought to life,” said Jay Lamar, executive director of the Alabama Bicentennial Commission. “They helped ensure the bicentennial engaged all ages and interests.

The bronze plaques are permanent testimonies to their contributions.”

Beauregard’s Football Player of the Week

#15 SR. QB GAVIN PRICKETT As Quarterback, Gavin threw for a touchdown and ran for another. As Safety, he registered three solo tackles.

#19 QB Corey Minton: Minton had more than 100 rushing yards and 1 TD

Sponsored by Goree’s Furniture Express

3797 AL Highway 169, Opelika 334-742-0607

B3 September 9, 2020

“Happy National Teddy Bear Day!”

I

can remember like it was yesterday, going to the Lee County Fair. I was eight years old and I dreamed of winning one of those colorful teddy bears you were rewarded if the little lead ball went into the correct slot. My daddy had given me enough quarters to play four games.

This year at the fair was going to be my lucky year. When game four was played and ended with no teddy bear, my daddy saw his daughter trying to hold back the tears. He told me I could play a fifth game but that he would be the one to play.

Daddy with quick reflexes rolled the lead ball into the slot that won the bear! Truly even to this day my daddy was my HERO who provided a

happy memory, an altar of a big brown teddy bear with a yellow bow that remained my security and bundle of love for many years! Even though the furry body wore down from many hugs and the big plastic colorful eyes faded over the years because of kisses and pretend play, my teddy bear was a source of comfort, love and security for me.

Sept. 9 is “National Teddy Bear Day.” The teddy bear is named after U.S. President Theodore, Teddy” Roosevelt. The name began from a bear hunting trip that the President attended. An American black bear was tied to a willow tree and fellow hunters asked President Roosevelt to shoot it but he told them that was not right and was not being

a good sportsman.

Politics surrounded this trip and issue by cartoons being created.

Something very good came out of the satirical cartoons. Morris Michtom, a toymaker in the US saw the cartoons of Roosevelt and the bear and he created a small, soft, cute bear cub and put it in his shop window and named it “Teddy Bear”. America’s love affair with Teddy Bears became an immediate success!

As a mom, my son was given a Teddy Bear as a gift from a friend which he named “Bubba”. It was given to my young son after we had moved from Opelika to Mobile. Bubba ate, slept and pretend played with my son daily!

Bubba, with my son’s permission, also became this early childhood’s teacher’s helper in the classroom! I used Bubba to reward good behavior in my first and second grade classrooms. Bubba would go home with my young students if they had earned star student for the day. The parents worked with me to make Bubba’s experience at their homes one to remember if their child had earned star student for the day. Pictures were taken of Bubba and their child at home eating dinner with the

families, doing homework with the star student, as well as reading a bedtime story with the star student.

Sometimes families would even send Bubba back to my classroom in a new outfit. Bubba was a good motivator for learning, good behavior and family involvement.

In the early childhood years, young children may have separation anxiety from their mom and dad. This is where a teddy bear can reduce the fear of separating from their parents. In the preschool classroom tears seem to disappear when a child focuses their attention on their teddy bear friend. Their little teddy bear buddy brings a smile and giggle on their face as well as reducing anxiety and stress.

Pretend play is a young child’s work.

Teddy bears can be included in play as children learn new skills.

They can role play and show their teddy bear how they wash their face and hands, brush their teeth, brush their hair, get dressed, etc.

In the home living centers in the early childhood classroom teddy bears become a part of the family by role playing as they pretend to cook, set the table, sweep, rock the baby (doll) and so forth.

Children love to express their emotions through puppets, dolls, stuffed animals and… teddy bears. As parents and teachers of young children, we can solve a lot of emotional problems of sadness, upset or being angry by encouraging them to role play with their teddy bears.

Through role playing they can work toward a happy solution.

I want to mention during this Coronavirus time full of the unknown and the world being different, a teddy bear can be a way for a child to express themselves on how they are feeling. Also, their familiar friend can bring a lot of security and comfort.

Teddy bears can help young children with interaction with others and socialization skills.

Sharing is the main goal that we desire young children to learn. This can be done by dividing foods where everyone gets a piece and is not left out. Teddy bear can be that stuffed animal friend who helps us role play on how to share.

Many preschools like to celebrate Teddy Bear Day by having their young students bring in their teddy bears and have a Teddy Bear Picnic. Teachers hide the students’ bears in a

special place while the preschoolers go through many rooms to find their teddy bear friends happily and joyfully. We teachers join in the pretend play by exclaiming the bears have turned over chairs and left toys astray as they go to their special hiding place.

The celebration happens when the preschoolers find their bear friends and have a wonderful picnic with their Teddy Bear friends.

This same idea can be done with family and friends.

I absolutely love to read the adventures of Corduroy by Don Freeman to preschool classes. Corduroy is a Teddy Bear who has many simple adventures that your young children will love to read and follow.

As you can see my love for Teddy Bears has been a lifelong love for me as a child, parent and teacher. I hope Classroom Observer has helped you readers to reflect on your happy memories of your soft, cuddly friends and has encouraged you to continue to enjoy our little teddy bear buddies in encouraging our young children in many skills.

From my heart to yours, “Happy Teddy Bear Day!” Beth Pinyerd, Classroom Observer

Three sophomores who can step up for Auburn in 2020

By Wil Crews SportsCrews@opelikaobserver.com

1. Bo Nix Quarterback:

Photos courtesy of AU Athletics

If you look up sophomore slump in the dictionary, a picture of Baker Mayfield will appear. For second year Auburn players, they will aim to build on their freshman campaign and avoid the unfortunate association with the former Oklahoma Sooner quarterback.

SEC Freshman of the Year Bo Nix leads the way for the Tigers’ sophomore standouts, but there are a number of other young talents who will get game time for Auburn this season.

Here are three sophomores who can make a big impact for the Tigers in 2020.

Nix won the starting job in the spring of his first season on the plains, beating out the highly touted, dual-threat quarterback Joey Gatewood. Gatewood has since transferred to Kentucky and Nix is the clear starter for Auburn in 2020. Last season, he threw for 2,542 yard and 16 touchdowns – both Auburn freshman records. He also showcased his versatility, rushing for 313 yards and seven more scores

on the ground. Nix led the Tigers to a 9-4 record and, in case you forgot, a legendary 4845 win over Alabama in the Iron Bowl. If circumstances were normal, it wouldn’t be shocking if Nix never lost a game in Jordan-Hare Stadium again. He has already shown his potential in a multitude of games; his best coming against Mississippi State in week 5 when Nix completed 76.2% of his passes for 335 yards and two touchdowns. He also ran the ball seven times for 56 yards and another score. Still, he had his freshman moments.

Most noticeably in Death Valley against Florida and LSU. Nix completed just over 42% of his throws and had one interception with negative

16 yards rushing in Death Valley. The Tigers will need more consistency from Nix in 2020, especially on the road. The last quarterback to start for Auburn in three consecutive seasons was Brandon Cox from 2005-07. He beat Alabama all three years. It’s easy to imagine Nix relishing in similar success and potentially becoming the fourth Heisman Trophy winner in program history.

2. Owen Pappoe Inside Linebacker:

Coming out of high school in 2018, Pappoe was the top-rated inside linebacker in the country. That reputation was put to the test immediately as he started every game for the Tigers as a freshman in 2019.

He played well, finishing sixth on the team in tackles with 49. Pappoe’s twitter handle is “TheFreak,” and is an accurate alias for the athletic 6-foot-1, 222-pound linebacker. Another year learning Kevin Steele’s defense and gaining mentorship for K.J. “Downhill” Britt can only benefit the former High School Under Armour All American. Before linebacker Chandler Wooten announced he would forgo the season due to

COVID-19 concerns, Lindy’s Sports ranked Auburn’s 2020 linebacker group the best in the SEC. Pappoe and company will lead the revamped Tigers’ defense and should be more than prepared to make up for Wooten’s lost production.

3. DJ Williams Running Back:

Boobie Whitlow led Auburn in carries and yards in both 2018 and 2019. Williams is the man in line for the starting job See SOPHOMORES, page B5

B4 September 9, 2020

Alabama broadband providers ready to connect students for fall semester ABC for Students program will help students connect to the internet for home-based learning Courtesy of Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative

Gov. Kay Ivey has announced a plan to help students afford internet access, and Alabama’s broadband providers are ready to support these efforts.

The Alabama Broadband Connectivity for Students program, or ABC for Students, set aside $100 million in federal CARES Act money to cover the cost of internet service for eligible students.

“We’re proud to work alongside the governor to connect more of our unserved families,” said Fred Johnson, CEO of Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative in Rainsville, Alabama.

“This is an effective use of the CARES Act monies to have an immediate impact on Alabama families.”

The funds will be distributed as vouchers to Alabama households with students who qualify for free or reduced-price school lunches.

“Independent and cooperatively owned broadband companies connect many of Alabama’s hometowns and rural communities, and we, unfortunately, see many homes that struggle to afford service,” said Evelyn Causey, CEO of Hayneville Telephone Company in Hayneville, Alabama.

HORNETS >> FROM B1 one. Talladega’s experienced offense was big, fast and well balanced, however the Hornets were up for the challenge.

Linebackers Trent Jones, Landon Hodges and Justin Smith stood out in the defensive effort, however the entire swarm played toe-to-toe; matching strength with strength and speed with speed for most of

SPORTS >> FROM B1 spoiled the Tigers’ first region game, winning 25-10 in Montgomery’s Crampton Bowl.

EHS has scored 98 points while allowing 68 points in three games, while OHS has scored 52 points while yielding 43 points in two games.

The Tigers finished 9-3 last year, losing in the second round of the 6A playoffs 56-49 to Hueytown in overtime.

Fans can purchase tickets online at www.

“The ABC for Students program gets help to those families when it’s most needed.”

The pandemic that abruptly ended the 2019-2020 school year has continued to destabilize communities and families. School districts across Alabama are struggling with a mix of in-person and at-home learning, creating challenges for students and teachers alike.

“This is why we built a fiber network,” said Daniel Martin, CEO of NHTC in New Hope, Alabama. “Alabama’s broadband providers have long understood the growing importance of connectivity, and the pandemic has magnified the need for broadband in every home.”

Households with a student enrolled in the National School Lunch Program will receive the internet vouchers in the mail from the state of Alabama in the coming days. With these vouchers will come a list of broadband providers in their area who have agreed to participate in the program.

“From there, it’s easy,” said Teresa Rich, CEO of Mon-Cre Telephone Cooperative, in Ramer, Alabama.

“Simply reach out to one of us on the list. If we have service available to your home, we will accept your voucher and get you connected to our reliable broadband network.”

The independent and

cooperatively owned broadband providers participating in the program include: • Ardmore Telephone Company • Farmers Telecommunications Cooperative • Hayneville Telephone Company • Millry Telephone Company • Mon-Cre Telephone Cooperative • New Hope Telephone Cooperative • Pine Belt Telephone Company • TEC Cherokee • TEC Roanoke • Windstream Communications “Despite the upheavals in our lives during the past few months and at least into the near future, children must be able to continue their classroom instruction,” Ivey said.

“This funding will expand internet access to allow more students to access distance learning while creating smaller classes in schools that provide those options and will also ensure their safety during the pandemic.

While I respect those districts that have elected to use remote learning, I fear that a slide will come by keeping our kids at home. These funds will bridge the gap until all students can get back into the classroom as soon as possible.”

Participating independent and cooperatively owned broadband providers are members of the Telecommunications Association of the Southeast.

the night. Barring two missed assignments, Beauregard’s defense played well enough to win the game, and by far the best they have played all season so far.

Overall, there were an awful lot of positives to come from this game, more answers than questions.

It was clear to everyone that Beauregard was well prepared, highly spirited and came to win as they took the field against

a more experienced Talladega team. They put themselves in a position to win the game, they had their chance, coming up a little short in the end – this time.

Beauregard travels to Elmore County Friday, Sept. 11, 2020 to take on the Holtville Bulldogs.

Bulldog stadium is located at 10425 Holtville Rd, Deatsville, AL 36022, kick-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST.

gofan.co by searching “Opelika High.” The cost is $8 per ticke with a $1 surcharge for each.

As of earlier in the week, tickets were available.

Opelika and Eufaula can be heard on WKKR 97.7 Kicker fm, online at kickerfm.com. The live stream of the game is free, thanks to the Orthopaedic Clinic.

Go online to www.nfhsnetwork.com, set up an account and search Opelika High. You will be directed to the game page. Make sure you choose OPELIKA PRODUCTION or you will be asked to pay.

Most Alabama High schools live stream most sporting events, including football. If you choose the wrong school, a fee will be requested.

OCS: STUDENTS MUST ATTEND CLASS IN-PERSON OR NO EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Opelika City School Superintendent Mark Neighbors confirmed to me that all OCS students must attend class in person if they want to play sports or participate in extracurricular activities.

Homeschooled students

Happy Hour Rotary Stuffs Backpacks for Kids

Photos courtesy of Happy Hour Rotary

Last week, Opelika’s Happy Hour Rotary Club members packed 600 bags in less than an hour! This is one of our favorite service projects to be a part of each year, and we are thankful for everyone at the Food Bank of East Alabama for working tirelessly to ensure food insecure children in our area get fed each weekend.

Like the last two years, we will sponsor students at both Southview Primary in Opelika and Ogletree Elementary in Auburn

are allowed by law to dual enroll and play sports or participate in activities.

Neighbors, replying to my inquiry, stated, “[OCS] cannot ask what reasons parents chose virtual learning, and common sense is that families made the choice not to send their children to school for reasons regarding health of their child or family members.

We certainly respect and support that decision.

Likewise, it would not make sense to open other school activities to virtual students that would expose them to potential

health issues.”

Opelika School System receives money based on all students enrolled, virtually and traditionally. Alabama State Superintendent Dr Eric Mackey asked school systems to be flexible during the 2020-21 school year due to COVID-19. The rule from Superintendent Neighbors prevented numerous students from being in the marching band, among other sports and activities during the school year.

By contrast, Auburn City Schools allows students to participate in

sports and activities if they choose either virtual or traditional.

The decision to allow students to participate in school activities if they choose virtual learning is up to local school systems.

Neighbors’s statement appears to paint a broad brush on parents who choose virtual learning, instead of looking at each parent’s situation.

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

B5 September 9, 2020

Auburn Tigers prepare for start of season

Big Kat Bryant (1) vs Alec Jackson (65) in W Drill

Seth Williams (18)

Todd Van Emst/AU Athletics

Todd Van Emst/AU Athletics

SUSCC PHYSICAL SCIENCE COURSE RECEIVES CERTIFICATION FOR COURSE DESIGN QUALITY Courtesy of SUSCC

Southern Union State Community College (SUSCC) science instructor Phillip Vernon earned the Quality Matters (QM) Certification Mark for his Physical Science course following a rigorous review process.

The QM Certification Mark is the internationally recognized symbol of online and blended course design quality and represents an ongoing commitment to creating learning environments that provide learners with a clear pathway to success.

The certification is the result of Vernon’s dedication to

SUSCC Science Instructor Phillip Vernon earned the QM Certification for his Physical Science Class.

continuous improvement and innovation.

The course is now listed on the QM directory of certified courses.

“The Quality Matters Official Review provided the opportunity to ref lect on this course and examine it from the

learner perspective,” said Dr. Linda North, dean of academics at SUSCC. “From accessibility to learner engagement to assessments, the review used internationally-recognized standards and best practices to examine critical course components related to the learner experience and ultimately learner success.”

Southern Union is the second oldest two-year college in the state of Alabama, with campuses in Wadley, Opelika and Valley, and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associates degrees.

Todd Van Emst/AU Athletics

Todd Van Emst/AU Athletics

Bo Nix (10) and Grant Loy (14)

Todd Van Emst/AU Athletics

Caylin Newton (23)

Zakoby McClain (9) and Owen Pappoe (0)

Derick Hall (29) vs Brenden Coffey (55)

SOPHOMORES >> FROM B3 with Whitlow gone.

However, It won’t be easy. Williams is part of a crowded backfield that features two highly touted freshman runners in Mark-Anthony Richards and Tank Bigsby. Shaun Shivers can change the game with one snap and has every right to be clamoring for carries. Harold Joiner is down on the depth chart but will expect snaps as he played well in a pass blocking and receiving role in 2019. All of the running backs have different strengths but Williams is solid everywhere – indicated by his 4.6 yards-per-carry average. It wouldn’t be surprising if Bigsby surpasses him in total carries by years’ end, but if he doesn’t, Williams will have

made the leap from solid to spectacular.

Honorable Mentions:

1. Derrick Hall Buck: Last season, Hall served primarily as the backup to eventual second round pick Marlon Davidson. He saw consistent playing time however, finishing with 13 tackles, 1.5 for loss. Those numbers are hardly impressive but the Tigers had two standout playmakers on the defensive line in Davidson and Derrick Brown. Hall has big time potential and will be one of the many defensive linemen Kevin Steele employs in an attempt to retain the disruptive ability of last year’s unit.

2. Nehemiah Pritchett - Defensive Back: The second starting defensive back position is up for grabs. Pritchett appears the closest

Todd Van Emst/AU Athletics

to claiming it. The 6-foot-1, 177-pound corner played in six games his freshman season but failed to have much of an impact. He will have a leg up on his competition as JUCO transfer Marco Domio does not yet know Kevin Steele’s system, and Senior Devan Barrett is a converted offensive player.

3. Jaren Handy - Defensive Line: Like Hall, Handy has the potential the step up for the Tigers in 2020. The 6-foot-5, 252-pound lineman looks the part of dominant SEC defensive end. He saw action in seven games in 2019, making seven tackles. He will most likely backup Big Kat Bryant but expect Handy to get a look in.

For Auburn’s defense to remain elite, somebody not named after an oversized feline has to step up and Handy could be that guy.

B6 September 9, 2020

ASMS OPENS ADMISSIONS APPLICATIONS

Courtesy of ASMS

The Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) has opened their admissions application for the 2021-2022 school year. ASMS is Alabama’s only fully public and residential high school for sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science and the humanities.

ASMS draws students from all 67 counties in Alabama and gives students greater access to quality education, academic opportunities and leadership development.

Therefore, applying to ASMS is free and tuition, room and board are free.

Current 9th and 10th graders in the state

of Alabama are eligible to apply for this admissions cycle.

“Being accepted to ASMS is a prestigious honor. We have a competitive application process that considers the whole st udent. At the same time, any st udent who is interested should apply. St udents enter ASMS with var ying levels of academic foundations, but they leave ASMS excelling on ever y level, inside and outside the classroom,” said Director of ASMS Admissions and Outreach Ken Robinson.

ASMS is for students who are ready for an accelerated learning environment that challenges them to maximize their potential.

ASMS is set apart by

its academic rigor, residential learning environment, leadership opportunities and research focus for students.

Through experiential learning in laboratories, innovation spaces and the community, ASMS students grow to a higher level of knowledge and skill compared to their peers. ASMS has a transformative effect on student success and pushes students to be the very best version of themselves.

This fall ASMS is hosting webinar information sessions for interested prospective students and families. More information is available on our website. Apply now or learn more at (asms. net/) and (asms.net/ admissions.)

PANTHERS >> FROM B1 again. The first touchdown of the game went to Central’s Joseph McKay on the ensuing one-yard run. The Panther defense was jumping no more. They would remain similarly floored for the duration of the game. After a nearly eight-minute opening drive, Central lead 7-0 with 4:18 left in the first quarter.

Although the Panther defense originally appeared confident, the same could not be said for the Smiths Station offense. After a nice kickoff return to the 34-yard-line, the Panthers only managed to go backwards. Three plays later, a punt; and Central had the ball again.

From there, the first half would continue in a blur of dominating play – on both sides of the ball – from the Red Devils. Set up by some sharp passing plays, Central’s Zion Morris carried the ball three yards into the end zone for the second score of the game; 14-0 Central.

After intercepting

Smiths QB Cory Minton, Central’s Trey Miles rushed into the end zone; 21-0 Central.

The following possession was Smiths’ best effort the first half, but the Panthers were thwarted in the red zone on a fourth down attempt of their own. The Panthers’ next possession, backed up against their own goal line, a fumbled ball was recovered in the end zone by Central; 280 Red Devils. After managing only 39 rushing yards with zero completions and three turnovers in the first half, the Panthers headed into the locker room looking for answers. Halftime.

Finally.

The Panthers’ play improved in the second half but they were unable to ever threaten the Red Devil’s lead.

Central’s Trey Miles got his second rushing touchdown of the game with 0:01 left in the third quarter and Smiths’ Minton scored on a 15-yard run with 5:15 to go in the fourth.

Final score: Central 35 - Smiths Station 7.

In total, the Panthers

had four turnovers, two of which led to Central scores. On a positive note, the Panthers managed to score their first points against the Red Devils since 2017 and Minton led the way on offense with over 100 yards rushing and the Panther’s only touchdown. Seven Red Devils finished with double digit rushing yards as starting running back Zion Morris led the way.

The game was more of an indictment on Central’s quality than Smiths Station lack of it. The Panthers were undersized, out-experienced and overshadowed for the second week in a row.

However, a few different bounces of the ball and it could have been a much closer ball game. There’s room to build.

Central moves to 1-2 after a difficult early season schedule.

Smiths Station also moves to 1-2 and will look for their first regional win in 2020 at home against Prattville next week. The game is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 13 at 7 p.m. at Panther Stadium.

B7 September 9, 2020

Opelika shreds the poets 42 - 6

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

B8 September 9, 2020

Opelika’s Spirit of the South takes the field

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics

B9

September 9, 2020

Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Inside the Statehouse Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller discusses 1960 Presidential Race Marked beginning of Television as Premier Political Medium

T

he 1960 Presidential Race between Richard Nixon and John Kennedy is considered by many political historians to be a landmark presidential contest. This race for the White House, exactly 60 years ago, marked a pivotal change in presidential election politics when the advent of television became the premier medium for political candidates.

John Kennedy was a 42-year-old, charismatic, democratic senator from Massachusetts. Richard Nixon was a veteran politico who was vice president under the popular war hero President and General Dwight “Ike” Eisenhower.

The presidential debate between Democrat Kennedy and Republican Nixon was to be televised nationwide.

This was the first televised presidential debate. Television was a new phenomenon.

STEVE FLOWERS Kennedy understood the importance of the debate and the new medium of television. He took a full week off the campaign trail and went See FLOWERS, page B13

LEE COUNTY COMMISSIONER ELECTED TO STATEWIDE ASSOCIATION LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE Robert Ham selected for ACCA leadership position Courtesy of ACCA

Lee County Commissioner Robert Ham has been elected

to serve as a member of the 2020-2021 Legislative Committee of the Association of County Commissions

of Alabama (ACCA), the statewide association representing See ROBERT HAM, page B10

the importance of the census

By Michelle Key Publisher

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller made a plea for residents of Opelika to complete their 2020 Census during the Sept. 1 city council meeting.

“We’re asking that [each of you] ask 10 Opelika residents if they have been counted and explain to them the importance of it,” Fuller said. “Our goal

is to reach 85%.”

Street Repair: Several homeowners and residents who live between North 2nd Street and North 3rd Street spoke to the council during the meeting, requesting that the city help repair a gravel road that the city created years ago when the railroad bridge was created on 2nd Avenue, effectively eliminating the 2nd Avenue access to those

residences.

“There is a lot of water runoff there,” Sid homeowner Darrell Oliver. “The runoff is so great. It comes down that hill, there is a storm drain, and when [the water] hits that storm drain, a lot of that gravel that is there clogs that up.

When it does, the whole backyard is a lake.”

See FULLER, page B10

Smiths Station approved funding for The Junction

By Hannah Lester hlester@opelikaobserver.com

The city of Smiths Station recently opened a new entertainment venue for the city, The Junction. The Junction is located right next to the government center.

During the City Council meeting on Aug. 27, the council approved several resolutions relating to The Junction.

Firstly, the council approved a resolution

for the purchase of a concession trailer and equipment for The Junction. This concession trailer, purchased for $14,900, will be run by an employee who already handles concessions for other Smiths Station concessions, such as the baseball and softball fields, along with a new employee, said Mayor Bubba Copeland.

The equipment was purchased for $4,000.

Secondly, the council

approved a resolution for funding for The Junction for $150,000.

“I’m sure you guys can see by the grand opening and by the events and by the number of people that are calling … to book this thing that it’s very popular,” Copeland said.

Mural: The council approved a resolution to fund the Smiths Station mural for See JUNCTION, page B10

City budgets provide COLA, retirement benefits and higher police salaries

By Hannah Lester hlester@opelikaobserver.com

The Aubur n City Council approved an amendment to its mid-biennial budget for the cur rent Fiscal Year during its Tuesday night

meeting as well approved the Fiscal Year 2021 and Fiscal Year 2022 biennial budget.

Ward 4 Councilmember Brett Smith asked city manager Jim Buston to explain what benef its

the city would receive from the biennial budget for Fiscal Year 2021 and 2022.

One of the items that will come from the Fiscal Year 2021 See BUDGETS, page B10

B10 September 9, 2020

Rogers Signs Police Pledge Courtesy of Rep. Mike Rogers

Representative Mike Rogers (AL03) signed Heritage Action’s Police Pledge, a pledge committing to voting against all legislative efforts to “defund the police.” After signing the pledge, Rep. Rogers issued the following statement: “Across our country, there is a growing anti-police sentiment by Democrat politicians. While it may be popular to be anti-police with liberal and Socialists, I will never turn my back on our heroes in law enforcement. Our police forces work day and night to protect the folks of Alabama’s Third District, and that’s why I was proud to sign Heritage Action’s pledge to protect them,” Rogers said.

“Though Democrats in Washington want to dismantle law enforcement and leave Americans at risk, I pledge to oppose any and all legislation that

BUDGETS >> FROM B9 and 2022 budgets is that Tier II employees will now be Tier I employees so they will receive better retirement, Smith said. This item was passed earlier in the consent agenda by the council.

“The Tier I employee receives a better retirement from RSA than does the Tier II employee,” Buston said.

"They are able to get more money in their check per month

ROGERS would defund the police.”

Heritage Action’s Police Pledge can be found here.

Rogers serves as Ranking Member on the Committee on Homeland Security and a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee.

when they retire.

They are also able to use their unused sick leave. This is really, it doesn’t sound like a big benef it but it is a great benef it, if you are a good steward of sick leave during your time with the city and you accumulated some excess sick leave, you can act ually use that sick leave towards retirement time.”

The budget also increases Aubur n police off icer salaries, which will hopef ully help with recr uitment, Buston said.

Additionally, the budget allows for a Cost-of-Living Adjustment.

“One of the things that was brought up early on in the COVID pandemic was our employees come to work ever y day,” the city manager said. “Those that picked up the garbage, those that, as you’ve heard me say before, those that purif ied the water, those that treated the sewage and they came to work.

“There was never See BUDGETS, page B13

FULLER >> FROM B9 Oliver expressed his gratitude for work that the city has done in the past but expressed his concerns about the condition of the road and requested any help that the city is able to give.

Forest Miller, a tenant of one of the residences, expressed his concerns that emergency vehicles might not be able to access the homes on that street due to the poor condition.

“Recently, I had a house fire, my kitchen was on fire, and luckily I was able to get it out by myself but my concern at this point I don’t think EMS could get to my house,” Miller said. “If you can do anything, I would appreciate it.”

In other business, the council: - approved a request for temporary street closure at N. 8th Street on Sept. 26 - approved a request from East Alabama Medical Center for a temporary street closure on Dec. 4 - approved an on-premise wine and beer alcohol license request by Hage LLC DBA Dough Pizzeria - approved an off-premise retail wine and beer

alcohol License request by Shirin 2020 Inc. DBA Neighborhood Market - approved a Restaurant Retail Liquor and on-premise wine and beer alcohol license request by El Patron Mexican Grill LLC DBA EL Patron Mexican Grill - approved a contract bid for the TAPAATA19 (916) 1st Avenue TAP Project - approved a resolution to designate city personal property as surplus and authorized the disposal of the property - approved the purchase of a 3-year contract for Microsoft software and maintenance - approved the purchase of a new Schwarze A9 Monsoon Mechanical Sweeper for the public works department for over $288,000.

- approved a resolution to authorize annual excess loss insurance contract with Lloyds Insurance Company - approved a special appropriation for Opelika Main Street for 2020 Christmas in a Railroad Town event with each council member giving $250 of their discretionary funds for a total of $1,250 - approved a

resolution to provide Tier I Benefits to Tier II Plan members - voted to approve an ordinance to amend Zoning Ordinance Section 2.2, 7.3 and to add Section 8.28, 8.28.1 - voted to approve an ordinance to amend Zoning and Ordinance Map to rezone 21.9 Acres located at 3001 Hi Pack Drive to a planned unit development - voted to suspend the rules requiring two readings and subsequently voted to approve an ordinance to set the date of Oct. 6, 2020 for the Run-Off Municipal Election - Purchase Schwarze A9 Monsoon Mechanical Sweeper - PW. - Authorize Annual Excess Loss Insurance Contract with Lloyds Insurance Company.

- Special Appropriation for Main Street, Christmas in a Railroad Town.

“In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at (334)705-2083.”

ROBERT HAM >> FROM B9

JUNCTION >> FROM B9 $16,000. Work on the mural will begin in October, Copeland said.

“This will be a great, great addition to the city,” he said.

“Students will love it, seniors will love it.

When it’s completed you’ll be like, ‘that’s really cool.’”

Other Business: - The council amended the ordinance to

establish a public works department - The council approved a resolution for an application for transfer of license for Matter of Taste.

- The council approved the purchase of public works equipment.

- The council approved the purchase of a security system.

- The council approved a resolution for funding for the Smiths Station Nature Trail.

- The council

approved a resolution for funding for a swing park.

- The council approved a resolution for funding for a public works facility.

- The council approved a resolution to establish a cultural activities chart of accounts.

- The council also heard a reading of the financial statements for the general fund budget for July and approved the budget.

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B11 September 9, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICES SYNOPSIS OF ORDINANCE NO. 020-20 OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA, AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE REGULATION OF SMALL BOX DISCOUNT STORES NOTICE is hereby given that on September 1, 2020, the City Council of the City of Opelika, Alabama, adopted Ordinance No.

020-20. The purpose of this Ordinance is to amend Section 2.2, Section 7.3C and Section VIII of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika (the “Zoning Ordinance”) relating to the regulation of small box discount stores.

Ordinance No. 02020 amends the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika, Alabama in the following respects: 1. Section 2.2 “definitions” is amended by

3. Section VIII is amended by adding a new subsection to be numbered 8.28.1 “Small Box Discount Stores”. The new subsection provides development standards for small box discount stores, including, but not limited to, separation requirements that the proposed location is located at least 5,250 feet from any other small box discount store and at least 200 feet from any property used primarily for a single-family residence.

Ordinance No. 020-20

was introduced by the City Council on August 18, 2020, and adopted on September 1, 2020.

The effective date of the Ordinance is the date of publication of this synopsis. The Ordinance relates to planning and zoning and affects all properties within the City limits of the City of Opelika, Alabama. A copy of the full text of the Ordinance may be obtained from the office of the City Clerk at City Hall, 204 South 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA FAMILY COURT DIVISION: DOMESTIC RELATIONS IN RE THE MARRIAGE OF: ANDREW BELL vs.

THOMASINA BELL, Defendant.

Civil Action Number DR2017-900408 NOTICE OF DIVORCE ACTION THOMASINA BELL, Defendant, whose whereabouts is unknown, must answer ANDREW BELL’S complaint for divorce and other relief by October 30, 2020, or thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against her in Case No. DR2017- 900408, Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Done the 4th day of September, 2020.

Mary Roberson, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Lee County. /s/ Margaret Y. Brown Margaret Y. Brown 214 North College Street Auburn, Alabama 36830 (334) 821-6944 Attorney for Plaintiff Legal Run 09/09/20, 09/16/20, 09/23/20 & 09/30/20 --------------Notice to General Contractors Bids for Beulah Park – Concession & Restroom Building Valley, Alabama

The Beulah Athletic Park Concession and Restroom building will be located at 11099 Lee Road 379, Valley, AL 36854. The new site development will include a concrete plaza and sidewalks, combined restroom and concession building, septic field, landscaping, and site furnishings. Site work generally includes clearing and grubbing of approximately 1 acre, light grading, connecting to existing utilities, paving, and landscaping.

All bidders are encouraged to inspect existing conditions at the site at 11099 Lee Road 379, Valley, AL 36854. Consideration of existing conditions is crucial in submitting a responsible bid. Contact Lee County Parks and Recreation Manager Ryan Norris at (334) 737-3606 to arrange for entry to the site. All Questions are due by 4PM CST on Wednesday, September 23, 2020 to Foresite Group at GSbids@fg-inc.net or by phone at 770-368-1399.

Sealed bids must be received in the Lee County Commission Office in the County Courthouse at 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama 36801 by 2:00 PM CST on Wednesday, October 7, 2020.

Bid documents will be available for review in the Lee County Commission Office or can be obtained from Auburn Reprographics starting Wednesday, September 9, 2020. (Bidders

adding the definitions of the following words, terms or phrases: “consumer shopping goods”, “grocery store”, and “small box discount store.”

2. Current section 7.3C “Use categories” is amended to provide for “consumer shopping goods”, “grocery stores”, and “small box discount store” in the matrix table and the portion of the matrix table is amended to read as follows:

the State of Alabama. The awarded business entity must provide documentation of enrollment in the E-Verify program. The business must participate in the E-Verify program for the length of the contract.

Lee County Commission: Consultant Project Manager: Roger H Rendleman Anthony Pappas County Administrator (770) 368 -1399 Legal Run 09/09/20 & 09/16/20

Auctioneer: Donnie W Dean, #733 MS Gallery Lic. #835F

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zoning district.

6. Approve dates for the November and December Planning Commission Meetings due to holidays.

Suggestion: Tuesday, November 17th and Tuesday, December 15th.

All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting/ public hearings and be heard.

Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to the Planning Director at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the meeting/public hearings and may be further submitted to the Planning Commission at the meeting/ public hearings.

The Planning Commission reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and to make its recommendations accordingly to the City Council.

Please contact Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-5132 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability.

PLANNING DIRECTOR Legal Run 09/09/2020

--------------CITY OF OPELIKA NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARINGS TO: RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED CITIZENS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Opelika, Alabama will hold --------------a regular meeting and will be NOTICE OF APPOINTconducting public hearings on Tuesday, September 22, MENT 2020 at 3:00 p.m. in the ESTATE OF SANDIE L. Meeting Chamber at Opelika MCCALL Municipal Court located at COURT OF PROBATE 300 MLK Boulevard, OpeLetters Testamentary of said deceased having been lika, Alabama. A Planning granted to the undersigned Commission work session on the 2nd day of September, will be held at 2:40 pm 2020, y the Hon. Bill English before the regular meeting. ,Judge of the Probate Court The purpose of the public of Lee County, notice is here hearings is to receive public by given that all persons comment on the following: having claims against said 1. A public hearing on a reestate are hereby required to quest by The Register Rivers, present the same within time LLC, authorized representaallowed by law or the same tive for Souvanh & Pat Chanwill be barred. thongphio property owners, This Notice is given in Witness my hand, and dated for preliminary plat approval accordance with Section this the 2nd day of Septemof The Lakes at Anderson 11-45-8(b)(2), Code of AlRoad Phase subdivision plat ber, 2020.

--------------abama, (1975) as amendconsisting of 10 lots accessed IN THE PROBATE COURT RICHARD A. SHELBY ed. This section allows from Anderson Road.

Legal Run 09/09/20, OF LEE COUNTY, ALA2. A public hearing on 09/16/20 & 09/23/2020 BAMA the publication of zoning a request by Hartbrook IN RE: THE ESTATE OF and planning ordinances in Opelika, LLC, authorized --------------BILLY W. BRATTON synopsis (summary) form. representative for David E. NOTICE OF COURT PROA/K/A BILLY WILLIAM THIS NOTICE is given Goolsby, property owner, for CEEDING BRATTON, DECEASED. under my hand this the 9th preliminary plat approval of CASE NO. 2020-333 CASE NO.:2020-315 day of September, 2020. the Academy Drive & VetIN THE PROBATE COURT NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF LEE COUNTY, ALAerans Parkway Townhomes TAKE NOTICE THAT /s/ Russell A. Jones| subdivision plat consisting BAMA Letters of Testamentary were CITY CLERK OF THE of 59 lots accessed from the Notice of the filing of Petigranted to John W. Bratton, CITY OF OPELIKA, northwest corner of Academy as Executor the Estate of tion for Summary DistribuALABAMA Drive and Veterans Parkway tion Billy W. Bratton a/k/a Billy Legal Run 09/09/2020 Anderson Road.

In the Estate of JAMES EDWilliam Bratton, deceased, 3. A public hearing on a reWARD BOYETT, deceased on the 25th day of August, Notice is hereby given that a quest by Hartbrook Opelika, 2020, by the Hon. Bill have the option to purchase a petition for Summary DistriLLC, authorized representaEnglish.

CD in pdf format to read or bution has been filed in the tive for David E. Goolsby, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVprint the drawings and specLEE COUNTY Probate Ofproperty owner, for condiEN that all persons having ifications. Adobe Acrobat fice by Addie Ruth Boyett on tional use approval of a 59 claims against the said Estate reader software is required to September 2, 2020 pursuant unit townhome development are hereby required to presread and print electronic bid to Section 43-2-690, Code accessed at the northwest ent the same within the time documents). Bid Documents of Alabama and that 30 days corner of Academy Drive allowed by law or the same may be viewed online by after the notice of publication and Veterans Parkway. will be barred. going to: www.auburnrepro. hereof and pursuant to law 4a. An agenda item to conJohn W. Bratton com and selecting Digital the Court shall be requested sider a recommendation to Legal Run 09/02/20, Plan Room. to enter an Order directing the City Council on a request 09/09/20 & 09/16/20 Options for obtaining Bid Summary Distribution of the

by Michael T. Johnson, Documents are as follows: estate of said decedent. authorized representative for --------------Electronic (CD): BILL ENGLISH/PROBATE Barbara Van Hooser, properIN THE PROBATE COURT Make check payable to JUDGE ty owner to annex 38.3 acres OF LEE COUNTY, ALAAuburn Reprographics & Legal Run 09/09/2020 into the City limits located at BAMA Supply in the amount of the 3001 Columbus Road; an IN RE:THE ESTATE OF $25. This amount is non-re--------------R-3 zone is requested.

TERRY WAYNE SKINfundable. Shipping arNOTICE OF COURT PRO4b. A public hearing to NER, DECEASED. rangements shall be by the consider a recommendation CEEDING TAKE NOTICE that Letters Contractor. to the City Council on the reCASE NO: 2020-337 Testamentary having been Hardcopy: IN THE PROBATE COURT quest by Michael T. Johnson, granted to Frances Susan Contact Auburn ReprographOF LEE COUNTY, ALAauthorized representative for Skinner, as Executrix of the ics, 660 North Dean Road, Barbara Van Hooser, properBAMA Estate of Terry Wayne SkinAuburn, AL 36830; Notice of the filing of Petity owner, to zone 38.3 acres ner, deceased, on the 20th (334) 501-8235; Attn: Greg annexed into the City limits tion for Summary Distribuday of August, 2020, by the Sellers; (E-mail greg@auaccessed at 3001 Columbus tion Honorable Bill English. burnrepro.com) to obtain bid Road to a R-3 (low density In the Estate of WILLIAM NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVdocuments. Hardcopy sets residential) zoning district.

HENRY WOODRUFF, EN that all persons having are non-refundable.

4c. A public hearing on a redeceased claims against the Estate are A Bid Bond of 5% of the bid Notice is hereby given that quest by Michael T. Johnson, hereby required to present the up to $10,000. in accordance a Petition for Summary authorized representative for same within the time allowed with the laws of the State of Distribution has been filed in Barbara Van Hooser, properby law or the same be barred.

Alabama will be required the LEE COUNTY Probate ty owner, for preliminary plat Frances Susan Skinner, with submission of the PUBLIC bid. A AUCTION Office by Ava Lagail Beaty HUGE approval2-DAY of Highway 280 Executrix Of the Estate PUBLIC AUCTION HUGE 2-DAY Performance of 100% Woodruff subdivision plat consisting HugeBond Contractors Equipment & Truck Auction on September 4, of Terry Wayne Skinner, Huge Contractors Equipment & Truck Auction and Payment Bond of 50% thpursuant to Section 2020 of 107 lots accessed at 3001 Deceased Wednesday, Sept.

16 & Wednesday, September 16th & will be required from the suc- 43-2-690, Code of Alabama Columbus Parkway.

Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney th th Thursday, Sept. 17 and • 9that am 30 days after the cessful bidder in accordance 5. A public hearingThursday, to conat Sept.

Law, PC17 • 9am 1042laws Hollandof Avethe (PO State Box 1248) with the of• Philadelphia, noticeMSof39350 publication hereof sider a recommendation 1042to Holland AvePO • Philadelphia, Box 308Mississippi 39350 Alabama.

Day 1: Selling Dump Trucks, Truckand Tractors, pursuant to law the Court the City Council a request Day 1: Selling Dump Trucks,on Truck Tractors, Specialty Trucks, Opelika, ALTrailers, 36803Farm As a condition for Trucks, award,Trailers, Farm Specialty shallTractors be requested to enter

by Joseph Long,Pickups, Inc., Vehicles,334-745-7033 Tractors, 1-tonP.Trucks, Attachments, Misc. the business entity and its Eq., Support an Order property owner, to rezone Day 2: Selling Construction Eq., directing Summary Legal RunTrucks, 08/26/20, Day 2: Selling Dozers, Excavators, Motor Graders, Off Road Rubber-tired subcontractors shall Distribution 89.5 acres accessed at the Logging Eq.,not Service & Fuel/Lube Trucks of the estate of 09/02/20, Eq., 09/09/20 Loaders, Loader Backhoes, Skid Steers, Compaction Forklifts, Logging knowingly employ or hire  said decedent.

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B12 September 9, 2020

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B13 September 9, 2020

FLOWERS >> FROM B9 to the Kennedy compound in Hyannis Port and studied and prepared and was rested and tanned.

Nixon, on the other hand, campaigned nonstop, 18 hours a day up until the telecast.

He was tired-looking and suffering from painful phlebitis. When he arrived at the NBC studios for the debate, he bumped his bad leg on the car door, and it flared up the phlebitis.

He was in severe pain when he took the stage.

However, the worst things he did were failing to shave and refusing makeup. He had a heavy five o’clock shadow. In fact, he had not shaved since five o’clock that morning.

He appeared tired and haggard. It made him look very sinister. He glared menacingly into the camera and at Kennedy. In short, he was awful.

Nixon was used to radio, and in fact those who listened to the debate on radio thought Nixon won. However, those

who watched on TV thought differently.

Kennedy was tanned, relaxed, smiling and was handsome and charismatic. Kennedy won the election that night. The televised debate was the key.

Therefore, 1960 marks the beginning of television being the way and means to victory in an election.

Folks, I am here to tell you it has not changed. Television is still the medium that drives the vote. It has been rumored and stated as fact that social media has taken over.

But it has not yet.

There is a known fact in politics that older people vote. That has not changed. It is folks my age, 60 or over, who vote and elect people.

Young people under 40 simply do not vote.

They really do not have time to vote in that stage of life. The typical under-40 American is trying to raise a family, build a career and get children to soccer games or dance class after an eight-hour workday and then get dinner on the table.

There are very few 25-year-old millennials

who vote. They get their information off social media, but it does not translate into voting. Most of them are not even registered, know where they go to get registered or much less where their polling place is. We older people still watch TV and we vote.

This fact is confirmed as I peruse and study the campaign finance filings of the candidates running for office in Alabama this year. All the major winning candidates for all the viable and primary races for U.S. Senate or Congress spent the bulk of their campaign money on television.

Looking back at the 1960 Presidential Race and comparing it to this year’s contest reveals a stark transition in presidential politics.

The electoral college system at that time had 40 states in play and 10 states that were safe Republican or Democratic enclaves.

Today, it is just the opposite. There are 40 states that are predetermined to be safely solid either Republican states or Democratic states.

You might say the hay is in the barn in at least 40 of our United States.

If Mickey Mouse were the Republican nominee, he could carry Alabama, as I often say; and if Donald Duck were the Democratic candidate, he would carry California.

Our country is divided politically like never before along partisan lines. It is almost 50/50.

Therefore, the key to victory is inspiring and firing up your base to vote.

If enthusiasm is any indication, then the needle is moving toward Donald Trump and the Republicans, although the addition of Senator Kamala Harris to the Democratic ticket may enthuse African American female voters, who are the base of the Democratic Party.

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. steveflowers.us.

BUDGETS >> FROM B10 any question. And there was, at one time, it was brought up that we should reward those employees. And I fully agreed, but I would rather, I said at the time, I’d rather give them a COLA if we could afford it. And that is in this budget and we were able to afford it.”

Fiscal Year 2020: Throughout a budget’s course, things often change. The council adjusted the f inal total of the budget for the current Fiscal Year ending on Sept. 30.

“The proposed budget document for f iscal 2021 and 2022 includes an adjusted budget for f iscal 2020,” said an e-packet document from Buston.

“As is customar y at the end of a biennium, adjustments are made to the second year’s budget to better project ending f und

balance. This provides a more accurate projected f und balance to star t the new biennium.”

Revenue increased by over $1.2 million and expendit ures decreased by over $6.9 million. This left the budget with an overall increase of over $8.2 million.

Other Business: - The council approved two beverage alcohol licenses.

- The council approved a contract with the Alabama Power Company for underground lighting at Dinius Park for over $20,700.

- The council approved a resurfacing project with JLD Enter prises, LLC for over $132,000.

- The council approved a contract with Ozark Striping Company for $250,000.

- The council approved an ordinance for a working capital loan interest subsidy program with Aubur nBan k.

PUBLIC NOTICES FROM B11 --------------IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA FAMILY COURT DIVISION: DOMESTIC RELATIONS IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF: DEANNE PRESTRIDGE, Vs. CHARLES EUGENE PRESTRIDGE Defendant.

Civil Action Number DR-2019-900053 NOTICE OF DIVORCE ACTION CHARLES EUGENE PRESTRIDGE, Defendant, whose whereabouts is unknown, must answer DEANNE PRESTRIDGE’S complaint for divorce and other relief by October 23, 2020, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against her in Case No DR2019-900053, Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Done the 31st day of August, 2020.

Mary B. Roberson, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Lee County. /s/ Margaret Y. Brown__ Margaret Y. Brown 214 North College Street Auburn, Alabama 36830 (334) 821-6944 Attorney for Plaintiff Legal Run 09/02/2020, 09/09/2020, 09/16/2020 & 09/23/2020 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA In the Matter of: Wilma West, an alleged incapacitated person TO: Colette Bias, Aaliya West and any other interested party: Lee County DHR has filed a Petition to appoint a

Legal Guardian for the person of Wilma West.

It is ordered that the 6th day of October, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. be appointed a day on which to hear such petition, at the Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th St. Opelika, AL at which time all persons interested can appear and contest the said petition if they deem it proper. Done this the 8th day of September, 2020.

Bill English Probate Judge Margaret A. Mayfield Attorney for Lee County DHR Post Office Box 809 Opelika, AL 36803 (334) 745-0333 09/09/20, 09/16/20 & 09/23/20 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA In the Matter of: Dorothy Jones, an incapacitated person TO: JAMES POWER: Lee County DHR has filed a Petition for removal of current Legal Guardian of Dorothy Jones and to appoint a substitute Guardian. It is ordered that the 6th day of October, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. be appointed a day on which to hear such petition, at the Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th St. Opelika, AL at which time all persons interested can appear and contest the said petition if they deem it proper. Done this the 8th day of September 2020.

Bill English Probate Judge Margaret A. Mayfield Attorney for Lee County DHR Post Office Box 809 Opelika, AL 36803 (334) 745-0333 Legal Run 09/09/20, 09/16/20 & 09/23/20

--------------NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF GRADY OGLE, DECEASED PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2020-276 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of GRADY OGLE deceased having been granted to James Ogle, on the 10th day of August, 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 said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

James Ogle Legal Run 08/26/20, 09/02/20 & 09/09/20 --------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EDWARD LEON WHITMAN, Deceased PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2020-140 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to KATHLEEN WHITMAN, the 12th day of August, 2020 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate, Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given than all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Attorney for Petitioner: J. Matthew Williams ESQ. The Anderson Law Firm, LLC

7515 Halcyon Pointe Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Personal Representative Kathleen Whitman 341 Lee Road Opelika, AL 36804 Legal Run 08/26/20, 09/02/20 & 09/09/20 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IJN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF NANCY ANN NASH, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2020-281 NOTICE OF HEARING Please take notice that on the 7th day of October, 2020 at 10:00 a.m., a hearing will take place at the Lee County Courthouse, located at 215 S. 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama 36801 on the Petition to Probate Estate of Nancy Ann Nash, filed by Terry Taylor through his attorney, Ben C. Hand at which time you may appear and contest the same if you see proper to do so.

A copy of this Order shall be mailed or otherwise delivered to the parties and counsel of record.

DONE this the 12th day of August, 2020.

Hon. Bill English, Probate Judge Lee County, Alabama Legal Run 08/26/20, 09/02/20 & 09/09/20 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JIMMY L. ALDRIDGE, Deceased.

CASE NO. 2020-291 NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary, having been granted to Troy Aldridge, as Executor of the Estate of Jimmy L. Aldridge, de-

ceased, on the 12th day of August, 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate 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.

Troy Aldridge Executor of the Estate of Jimmy L. Aldridge, deceased Legal Run 08/26/20, 09/02/20 & 09/09/20 --------------IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: THE ESTATE OF MARTIN ALLEN ROMANISHAN, DECEASED. CASE NO. 2020-302 NOTICE TO CREDITIORS TAKE NOTICE THAT Letters of Testamentary were granted to Levi Romanishan, as Executor the Estate of Martin Allen Romanishan , deceased, on the 14th day of August, 2020, by the Hon. Bill English NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

Legal Run 08/26/20, 09/02/20 & 09/09/20 --------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF NATALIE S. JONES, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No: 2020-282 Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 10th day of August, 2020, by the

Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

SUSAN JONES MCGWIER Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 368032345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 08/26/20, 09/02/20 & 09/09/20 --------------STATE OF ALABAMA IN THE PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2020-306 RE: ESTATE OF DAVID EDWARD JOHNSON, DECEASED: NOTICE OF PUBLICATION Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 17 th day of August, 2020, by the 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.

Sharon Johnson, Executor Claud E. (Skip) McCoy, Jr., Esq. Attorney for Executor Johnson, Caldwell & McCoy, LLC 117 North Lanier Avenue, Suite 201 Lanett, Alabama 36863 (334) 644-1171 Legal Run 08/26/20, 09/02/20 & 09/09/20

B14 September 9, 2020

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

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

This week’s puzzle answers: