Vol. 11, No. 52
pelika Observer O Wednesday, Oct. 02, 2019
“By local people, for local people.”
Opelika, Alabama
Photo by Michelle Key/Publisher Opelika native Lei Robison signed copies of her book “Mill Village” Sunday afternoon at O Town. Copies of the book are available on Amazon.com. A second event is in the works.
One Voice Shelter Coalition, other local Volunteers groups help open temporary housing are needed for shelter in Opelika for area women ‘Shine Prom’ By Natalie Salvatore For the Opelika Observer
Shine Prom, a prom for teenagers and adults with special needs, is returning on Oct. 16 for its third time. Lori Fuller, the event’s main orga-
Photo and report submitted by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Last Friday, local dignitaries and representatives from the One Voice Shelter Coalition and other groups held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Northbridge Shelter. The shelter will provide temporary housing for up to 14 women that are having difficulties in provide housing for themselves. This will help meet a dire community need according to information provided by the Lee-Russell Council of Governments, which shows that nearly 100 women have recently applied for temporary housing. During a woman’s stay at the shelter, One Voice will offer classes with vital information on living a better life and ways to find a permanent living situation. One Voice representatives Jean Causey and Selena Daniel thanked the crowd and expressed gratitude to Beulah’s Friends of the Community group, First United Methodist Church of Opelika, John Rice Realty and the Scott Foundation for helping them secure the building for the coalition. “It was one of the most helpful events for the area and for those suffering, it will be able to give some relief. And hopefully, a better life so they can become a productive citizen. Everything we do here is to honor Christ,” Daniel said. Also in attendance at the ceremony was Will Graham from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association based in Charlotte, North Carolina, who was in town to address a local ministerial association that evening. For more information, to donate or to volunteer, send emails to jcausey@lrocg.com or daniel1@mindspring.com.
Find authentic Hispanic cuisine, grocery items at Opelika's Fiesta Supermarket By Morgan Bryce Editor Enjoy authentic, handmade Mexican cuisine or shop through an entire grocery store filled with baked goods, fruit, meat and snacks found primarily in Central or South America at Opelika’s Fiesta Supermarket, located at 1904 Pepperell Parkway. Opened July 26, the store is owned and operated by Jesus Santillanes and managed by his sister Maricela Rodriguez. Santillanes has more than 15 years of experience in the food business, and helped start the Durango location on Dean Road and La Plaza Taqueria Y Carniceria before opening Fiesta. The space that now houses Fiesta was used as a furniture store and
nizer, said it is a magical evening for everyone in the community to watch the guests enjoy a prom made exclusively for them. It is a time when everyone comes together to support this great cause. The prom guests See Prom, page A3
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Grand-opening celebration for new Tiger Town Chicken Salad Chick location to be held Oct. 9
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
most recently as a dogtraining academy, but had sat vacant for several years. Santillanes said he had seen the property on several visits to Opelika and saw its potential to house his combined taqueria, grocery store concept. After acquiring the property
early last summer, he said the renovations and improvements took nearly a year and a half to complete. Fiesta is replete with brightly painted walls and art representative of Hispanic culture with soft but upbeat Latin See Fiesta, page A2
Index
OPINION.....................................A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 RELIGION..............................A13 CALENDAR..................................A14
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
By Morgan Bryce Editor Fans of the internationally famous Chicken
COMICS.....................................A16 SPORTS..................................B1 PUBLIC NOTICES..........................B12 POLITICS...................................B15
Salad Chick in Opelika can rejoice with the grand opening of a new store front in Tiger Town on Oct. 9, begin-
ning at 10 a.m. The celebration will kick off a week’s See Restaurant, page A2
pelika O Observer.com
What’s Up? www.doughornroofing.com • 334-744-5246
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Prom, from A1 have a night of fun ahead of them, which includes a hair and makeup session, a corsage or boutonniere, a limousine ride, red carpet treatment, access to a photo booth, food, dancing and music. Although some volunteer areas have already been filled, the event still needs buddy volunteers. In this role, volunteers ages 13 and older will serve as a buddy for a special needs guest. They will stay with the guest the entire evening and help them with the night’s festivities, such as dancing, playing games and having fun. “The Shine Prom was a magical night for me and for all of the other participants and their buddies as well. It was so rewarding to see so many happy faces,” said Nann Ogletree, a past Shine Prom buddy. “I had as much fun as my sweet buddy, Jared. Whoever came up with the idea of having a Shine Prom is brilliant!” First-time buddies must
attend a mandatory buddy training session preceding the event. Volunteers may attend either the Oct. 10 session from 7 to 7:45 p.m., or the Oct. 13 session from 5 to 5:45 p.m. “I would definitely encourage others to volunteer to be a buddy! It would be one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself and for your community,” Ogletree said. “It was an unforgettable experience for me, and I definitely want to do it again!” Shine Prom is not just for kids. Guests must be at least 13 years old to attend the prom. However, the event hosts special needs guests from all over East Alabama with an age range of 13 to 80 years old. Therefore, Fuller said the event really needs adult buddy volunteers as well. “We couldn’t do this event if we didn’t have the volunteers. We appreciate the excitement that our community shows and supports for this event,” Fuller said. Shine Prom currently has nearly 130 guests registered, but still has
plenty of room for more. Fuller encourages anyone in the community that has a special needs family member, friend or someone they know that would love to attend Shine Prom to consider signing up. Registration for both volunteers and guests is open now via the event’s website, shineprom.com. This free event will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. Guests and volunteers are welcome to wear whatever attire they wish, whether that be prom appropriate or casual attire. The prom attire partners for the event are The Mint Julep Boutique and Gabrielle’s Formals & Events, offering affordable prices for everyone involved. Chick-Fil-A in Tiger Town, Hidden Lakes in Opelika, the Opelika SportsPlex and the Hudson Family Foundation all sponsor the event. Shine Prom will be held at the Opelika SportsPlex, located at 1001 Andrews Road. For more information, visit the event’s website or contact Fuller at 334-559-4940 or shineprom19@gmail. com.
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Pictured left to right are: Tim Hudson, Jared Key, Nann Ogletree and Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller. Hudson and Fuller welcomed Key and Ogletree as they arrived to the red-carpeted entrance via limousine.
Restaurant, from A1 worth of grand-opening festivities, according to the company’s director of marketing Ali Rauch. This will mark the second storefront that the restaurant chain has had in Opelika after briefly operating a storefront at The Shoppes at Midtown on Frederick Road. Construction began in May on the Tiger Town location and was finished within the last few weeks. Located in the heart of Tiger Town, Rauch said the company is excited about expanding into “its sister city” from its home location in Auburn. “We know that Opelika is truly its own community and is full of people who are perfect and wonderful Chicken Salad Chick guests but maybe don’t want to
Fiesta, from A1 music playing in the background. On the left-hand side of Fiesta is its taqueria, offering a number of classic Mexican dishes including gorditas, tacos and tostadas, among several others. Rodriguez said dishes are handmade and hold a deep meaning for her and her brother. "A lot of the dishes here, our mom gave us the recipes for. We really like the tamales we make for example, but they still don't taste as good as hers," Rodriguez said laughingly. "We take a lot of pride
travel all the way into Auburn to get their fix. So, to be able to serve thousands of guests in a convenient location that has a drive-thru in the center of Tiger Town is a monumental thing for us,” Rauch said. There will be a jointribbon cutting ceremony prior to the start of the celebration, as well as a check presentation to the EAMC Foundation with proceeds from a private, invite-only gathering that will take place in the two days before the grand opening. Following is a full itinerary of the store’s grand-opening festivities, with all entry guidelines and requirements posted on the event’s Facebook page, “Tiger Town Grand Opening Celebration”: Oct. 9 - The first 100 guests at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. will be eligible to receive free chicken salad for a year (equivalent to one free large
Quick Chick sandwich). All guests who dine-in or go through the drive thru who are not among the first 100 visitors will receive a raffle ticket and be among 10 winners drawn to receive the same prize Oct. 10 - The first 100 guests at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. will be able to receive a free, stainless steel Chicken Salad Chick tumbler with the purchase of a Chick Trio Oct. 11 - The first 100 guests will receive a free Chicken Salad Chick snapback hat with the purchase of a Chick Trio Oct. 12 - The first 100 guests who purchase two large Quick Chicks will receive a free Chicken Salad Chick tote bag. For more information, like and follow the company’s social media pages or visit www. chickensaladchick.com. The new Opelika store will be located at 2776 Enterprise Drive.
in what we cook ... prepare and serve here." The right-hand side of the business houses the grocery store, which boasts imported goods mostly from Mexico and Guatemala. In addition to the wellstocked grocery and produce aisles, there is a baked goods section, meat and seafood department and deep freezers stocked with soft drink and tortillas, among other items. Santillanes said a number of his customers consider the shop "a home away from home," and that he is always working with his customers to ensure that his store is stocked with desirable items. "I had a lady in here
from Peru who was asking if I could supply certain snacks and other items like peppers here that could be found in Peru. I have people from (other places) ask too and I'll talk with my suppliers to see about getting that in the store," Santillanes said. "I really enjoy hearing customers say how much they enjoy the food, and we've been getting good reviews online since we opened which is really good." Currently, Fiesta's hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Monday. For more information, call 334-203-1311 or like and follow the business's Facebook page.
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Publisher: Michelle Key Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Doug Horn and Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Sports Writers: Rick Lanier and Michelle@opelikaobserver.com D. Mark Mitchell
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w w w. o p e l i k a o b s e r v e r . c o m 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801
CORRECTIONS The Opelika Observer will correct any errors, omissions or inaccuracies deemed to be substantive. Corrections may be requested by contacting the Editor at (334) 749-8003.
By Kelly Daniel For the Opelika Observer
pelika O Observer October Mental Health Observances
The first weeks of October include important awareness observances for mental health. Mental Health Awareness Week runs from Oct. 6 until Oct. 12, and World Mental Health Day takes place on Oct. 10. The upcoming observances seek to promote education about the importance of mental health support and treatment. The Importance of Treating Mental Illness Just like any other organ in the body, the brain can experience
dysfunction, with mental illness being a broad category for many brain disorders, including anxiety disorders, major depression and schizophrenia. As Mental Health America states on its website, “Mental illnesses may be caused by a reaction to environmental stresses, genetic factors, biochemical imbalances or a combination of these.” The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) explains on its website that 1-in-5 Americans experience mental illness each year, while 1-in-25 experience serious mental illness. The Risk of Suicide
While the psychological distress and life disruptions brought about by mental illness cause significant harm, perhaps the most tragic outcome of untreated mental illness is suicide. According to the CDC, Alabama had the 24th highest suicide rate in the nation in 2017. Additionally, a report by Mental Health America found that the prevalence of suicidal thoughts has increased during the last year. As the World Health Organization states on their web page on suicide prevention, “Suicides and suicide attempts have a ripple effect that impacts on
families, friends, colleagues, communities, and societies.” Mentally ill people who die by suicide are, at the time of the act, unable to see the high value of their lives and the great sadness caused by their deaths. However, with treatment, individuals experiencing suicidal ideation can overcome these thoughts and feelings of worthlessness and go on to live fulfilling lives. People struggling with thoughts of suicide should call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline at 1-800-2738255 for help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Effectiveness of
Treatment A source of optimism for mental health is the fact that current treatments, which include medication and counseling, have a high success rate. East Alabama Mental Health states on their website that “the vast majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives.” Research supports the assertion of the effectiveness of mental health treatment. In a 2015 article on mental health treatments, The National Institute of Mental Health found that 75% of individuals treated for schizophrenia improve during a
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10-year period, with many improving sooner. The article also reported that counseling has also been found to be effective in treating depression and anxiety disorders. The same article also explains that even those with severe depression not responding to medication still have treatment options, including ECT, which was found to have an 85% success rate in severe depression after other options were unsuccessful. Unique Challenges to Treating Mental Health Conditions While mental illnesses See Health, page A5
Fifth annual 'East Alabama Walk to Upcoming annual ‘Health Fair and Festival’ free to the public End Alzheimer's' to be held on Auburn University's campus Oct. 20 By Natalie Salvatore For the Opelika Observer
By Morgan Bryce Editor The fifth annual "East Alabama Walk to End Alzheimer's" will take place at Auburn University on Oct. 20. Coordinated by Taylor Wagnon of the Alabama branch of the Alzheimer's Association, the event serves as a fundraiser for an organization that "is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research."
The two-mile walk will take place along a route that runs through the green space area adjacent to Jordan-Hare Stadium. It will weave around parts of the stadium as well as the Student Center. Instead of a registration fee, participating individuals are asked to help fundraise by themselves or in groups. As of Friday, 29 teams and 342 combined participants had helped raise $42,670 of their $55,000 goal. Those unable to register
in advance can do so on the day of the event, starting at 1 p.m. After a kickoff ceremony, the walk is scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. To register, visit act.alz.org/site/TR/ Walk2019/ALAlabama. For more information, call Wagnon at 205-379-8065, ext. 8322, email her at twagnon@alz.org or like and follow the "East Central Alabama Walk to End Alzheimer's" Facebook page.
New location for this year’s ‘Think Pink Walk’ By Natalie Salvatore For the Opelika Observer For the last 14 years, the East Alabama Medical Center Foundation has hosted an annual Think Pink Walk to bring awareness to breast cancer. This event honors those lost to the disease and celebrates those who have survived. This year’s walk, set for Oct. 19, will be held at the new Spencer Cancer Center instead of its usual location at Courthouse Square in downtown Opelika. Karen Calton, the event
coordinator, said the walk has a big impact on the community. It always draws a lot of breast cancer survivors, as well as families and friends, as they all become one to give back. “It brings us together for fun and fellowship to be able to celebrate our survivors and remember those we have lost,” Calton said. “We are excited about having the event here and being able to show off our new center.” The event will start at 9 a.m. and go on until approximately 11:30 a.m. or noon. There will be music
by DJ Oz, dancing, Drive-By Tacos’ food truck, as well as coffee supplied by One Bike Coffee. A breast cancer celebration walk will also take place after the event around the cancer center. Registration is day-ofevent only. The fee is $15, which includes an event T-shirt. The cancer center is located at 2501 Village Professional Parkway in Opelika. For more information, contact Calton at karen.calton@eamc.org or visit Think Pink Opelika’s Facebook page.
Low Vision Support Group expanding, growing its presence in the Auburn-Opelika area Special to the Opelika Observer The Low Vision Support Group, an outreach of the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Service, is seeing steady growth each meeting. The group is overseen by vision rehabilitation specialist Shiquita Fulton and volunteer coordinator Beth Pinyerd. Following are some updates on the group
and its latest developments: - East Alabama Medical Center dietician Marilyn Howard visits and educates members on foods that lend to good eye health - Corporal Pam Revel and Deputy Amanda Young from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office have presented informative programs for group members. They spoke on the importance of
individuals with low vision to stay in contact with family or friends on a regular basis for safety reasons as well as the Yellow Dot program, a statewide initiative “designed to assist Alabama citizens and first responders in the event of an automobile crash or other medical emergency involving the participant’s vehicle See Vision, page A5
On Oct. 12, True Deliverance Holiness Church of Auburn will host the 15th “Annual Community Resource Fair and Fall Festival.” This free event brings awareness to the community of available resources. Sutricia Johnson, event chairperson and Faith community nurse, said that this year, they have extended the event to a more family-oriented resource fair and fall festival. Prior to the event, there will be a fun run. “The main driver of the event is that everything is free, so people can come out, have health screenings, learn about what’s available in our community free of charge, and have fun,” Johnson said. Starting at 9 a.m. and ending at 1 p.m., the event includes other services, such as free food, games, music, door prizes and inflatables. This year, the fair is also holding a Stress Busters break out session at 10:30 a.m. Led by
Sedena Stewart-Scott, this session will help guests learn how to combat stress in everyday life. The event’s target is to have 20 donors, who are welcome to attend, get information and enjoy the festivities going on. They would appreciate if the community wanted to come out and help them reach this goal. “We look to do bigger and better every year, and just try to bring out those hidden gems in our community, these resources that are available,” Johnson said. For more information, call the church’s main line at 334-502-4700, or call Johnson at 334-744-3069 with questions. Pastored by Senior Pastor Dr. Nolan T. Torbert, the church is located at 936 N. Donahue Drive. The following agencies are to be represented: -2020 Census Bureau -Apothecary -Auburn University School of Pharmacy -Children’s Rehab Services -CHIP Clinic - (Auburn
University and VCOM) -Compassus Hospice -Crisis Center of Russell County – Domestic Violence -EAMC - Diabetes and Nutrition Center - cooking demo -EAMC Cardiac Rehab -EAMC Home Care -Family Resource Center Opelika -Free clothing giveaway and silent auction (Anthony and Nakia Yancey Scholarship Fund) -Free flu and pneumonia vaccinations for those who qualify - East Alabama Health Plus Fitness Center -Lee County Sheriff Dept -Lee-Russell Area Agency on Aging -Life South Bloodmobile -Estate Planning - Harris funeral Home -P.A.C.E. -Prostate Screenings -Rehab Alabama -Synergy Home Care -Unity Wellness - HIV testing -Village Friends and -Viva Medicare HMO/ Care Network.
AGENCIES REPRESENTED:
OCTOBER 12, 2019 9:00AM-1:00PM Health-Wellness & Education Ministries Present:
FREE ANNUAL COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR & FALL FESTIVAL Dr. Nolan T. Torbert, Senior Pastor Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in good health, just as your soul prospers. 3 John 1:2
Free Flu and pneumonia vaccinations for those who qualify (EAMC) EAMC Cardiac Rehab HealthPlus Fitness Center Life South Bloodmobile Estate Planning– Harris funeral Home Auburn University School of Pharmacy ****Free Clothing Giveaway**** And Silent Auction Anthony And Nakia Yancey Scholarship Fund Lee-Russell Area Agency on Aging Unity Wellness– HIV testing EAMC– Diabetes and Nutrition Center– cooking demo EAMC Home Care Compassus Hospice Viva Medicare HMO/ Care Network CHIP Clinic- (Auburn University and VCOM) Lee County Sheriff Dept Village Friends Family Resource Center-Opelika Children’s Rehab Services P.A.C.E Crisis Center of Russell CountyDomestic Violence Rehab Alabama 2020 Census Bureau Synergy Home Care Prostate Screenings FREE FOOD, GAMES, INFLATABLES, COTTON CANDY, FUNNEL CAKES, MUSIC and DOOR PRIZES! Much More!!
TRUE DELIVERANCE HOLINESS CHURCH 936 N. Donahue Drive Auburn, AL 334-502-4700
Break Out Session: 10:30 am- Stress Busters!! How to combat stress in your life! Sedena Stewart- Scott B.S, M.S
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O
nce upon a time, butter, eggs and bacon were considered health food. Our grandparents’ generation believed them to be the “Holy Breakfast Trinity.” Old-timers believed that farm eggs, pork bellies and hand-churned butter were the keys to longevity and happiness. And I don’t mean this ironically. I mean that these men and women actually believed this. So did their medical professionals. Long ago, I remember when my grandfather visited his longtime family doctor—a cross between Fred Mertz and Methuselah. The old doc would finish each exam by shining a light into my grandfather’s ear canal and saying, “Hey, I can see daylight on the other side.” Then they would laugh, fire up a couple Lucky Strikes and tell dirty jokes. You had to love these men. They were from another generation. They worked hard, polished their car engines, wore extremely highwaisted pants, used Old Spice and ate bacon. As a younger man, my grandfather would visit the butcher on payday and buy a huge pork slab. Bacon was so vital back then that he would buy it before he spent money on anything else important, such as the mortgage or beer. Keep in mind, this was before the days of standardized testing and cellphones. Back when kids were still walking to school, uphill, 40 miles, both ways, crossing rivers full of alligators and doing their homework on the backs of shovel blades with charcoal. So just to briefly recap what our grandparents believed: Bacon, butter and
Bacon
By Sean Dietrich eggs: good. Communism and rock ‘n’ roll: evil. High-waisted men’s pants: sexy. But somewhere along the way, nutrition experts changed their tune. They started claiming that bacon, butter, egg yolks and pretty much anything that tasted good would kill you. This was in every magazine, newspaper and morning talk show. Soon, food companies were manufacturing bland, fat-free products that weren’t fit for thinning paint. We had fat-free American cheese slices that tasted like singleply Charmin. We had a liquid, cholesterol-free egg substitute that resembled putrefied snot. And don’t forget turkey bacon. Turkey. If the Good Lord would have wanted a turkey to become bacon, he wouldn’t have given us Jimmy Dean. Regular people everywhere were changing to fat-free diets. People like my father-in-law stopped eating real butter. He began using low-cholesterol butter substitute that came in a spray bottle. At each family supper, after the prayer, dinner guests would be forced to butter their biscuits by spraying yellow hairspray all over their food. Around every corner was another expert telling us not to eat eggs, but to eat some exotic “superfood,” even though the superfood happened to look like a pile of beetle larva. Quinoa, I’m looking at you.
Pretty soon the only permissible things to eat were peanuts, chicken and Pez. But, even that belief didn’t last. Because it wasn’t long before the experts said PEANUTS were bad for you because they were high in phytic acid— which strips your body of minerals. So, no more peanuts. But oh well. At least we still had chicken. Good old chicken. Nothing could ever be wrong with chicken. WAIT! SCRATCH THAT! Suddenly, news channels were telling us about salmonella outbreaks in the poultry industry every few days. It was such a big deal that nightly news anchors ended their broadcasts by saying things like: “I’m Dan Rather, and whatever you do, don’t eat chicken or you will go blind.” Today, things haven’t gotten much better. It doesn’t seem like experts can agree on what to eat. Once, at a dinner party, I saw three doctors get into a heated disagreement over the subject of diet and nutrition. Keep in mind, these were actual practicing doctors who drove actual Lexuses. One doctor claimed that a high-fat, highcholesterol diet with low carbohydrates was best. Another recommended low-fat vegetarianism. The third doctor was actually a chiropractor and went around trying to crack everyone’s neck. But he drove a Chevette. My cousin’s family just converted to veganism. His wife believes that the human body should not consume animal products. Also she has recently joined a multilevel marketing company and holds meetings in her den See Dietrich, page A5
I
Horsing Around
love talking to folks. More importantly, I love listening to folks. I talk extensively in my motivational talks about the importance of listening. There are a variety of reasons to do so. One, it’s the polite and courteous thing to do. It’s that simple. Listen. Secondly, you may learn something—regardless of the party, you will learn. Lastly, they may say something funny. Humor is funny. Literally. And, humor can get us through even the most difficult situations. But for any of this to happen, we have to be willing talk to people, which is something I have a gift for, whether I know them or not. In this case, I knew the guy, although it had been a long time. Lucy and I stopped at the feed store to get some hay for her horses. Her horses. Not mine. My love for horses stopped and ended the day I fell off one. It wasn’t pretty. I was a bloody mess. I was only eight years old, and that concrete next to the front door at K-Mart was hard. As we pulled up, I saw a gentleman that I thought was a guy that I knew, but other than a brief encounter following his mother’s funeral a couple of years ago, I had not seen him in well more than 30 years. Still, I was pretty sure it was him and approached him to say hello. As I got closer, I saw his name on his work uniform. It was, indeed, him. He was getting horse feed,
By Jody Fuller too. He comes from a great, country family. I mean “collard green county” and I love them all dearly. We’re actually distant cousins. “Cuddins” to them. Of course. I’m cuddins with just about everybody in these parts. He’s a mechanic— a very good mechanic; however, in the mid-80’s he lost a thumb in an accident. I’d always assumed it was related to his occupation. I mean, accidents happen. Things happen. Ask Forrest Gump. It happens. Boy, was I wrong regarding the events involving the loss of his thumb! I don’t think I’ve ever been so excited to be wrong. He was, dare I say, horsing around. As stated, the last time I saw him was at his mom’s funeral, which is not exactly the time and place to talk about a severed thumb. After several minutes of catching up, I looked down and saw his hand. It looked perfectly fine, sans the thumb. It didn’t seem to faze him. We were cutting up, so I just flat out asked him what happened. I’m 11 years younger than he is, so I don’t know if I was ever privy to the information. I prefaced my question by telling him that I’d
recently written an article about a man with a missing index finger who liked to have fun with his nub. He got a kick out of it. “I lost mine skiing,” he said. I cut him off and told him that I never knew he was a skier. He just didn’t appear to be the skiing type, be it on the water or on the slopes. “Wait. I’m not done,” he shot back, with a big, ole collard green eating grin on his face. “It was 1985. I was skiing... behind a threewheeler ... on a dirt road.” I’ve never even heard of such shenanigans, yet, somehow, I could see him skiing on a dirt road. A. Dirt. Road. Another friend, probably a cousin too who is younger than I am, was pulling him on this fateful day when they somehow got a little too close to a tree. I won’t go into the humorous, yet graphic details — it’s not needed — but we were both laughing so hard. He said it was getting dark, so they just left it on the ground. His mother had to go back and find it in the dark. I took a giant step backwards so he wouldn’t punch me and then said, “That’s about the redneckiest thing I’ve ever heard in my life.” He agreed, so we laughed even harder. He even state that he’s a better mechanic minus the thumb on one hand, because he’s able to get his hand in places where others can’t—talk See Fuller, page A5
‘It’s right there in the Constitution!’ Oh, really? Have you even read it?
C
onstitution Week in Opelika was Sept. 17-23. It celebrated that founding document in its 232nd year. Mayor Gary Fuller and representatives from the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution honored that amazingly durable official paper. Sadly, many Americans do not take time throughout the year to study and appreciate the U.S. Constitution. Plenty of U.S. citizens picture this great document as a bulky bundle. Others see it as relatively small. To gauge its size in a format we all are familiar with, I typed up the entire Constitution. This includes the Preamble, seven Articles, and all 27 ratified Amendments. Was it 93 pages, eight pages or what? Drumroll - it came out to 16 typed
pages. That’s all! “Don’t interfere with anything in the Constitution. That must be maintained, for it is the only safeguard of our liberties,” said Abraham Lincoln, considered by most Americans to be our best president. A widely admired Supreme Court justice of our time, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, once commented that, “We have the oldest written constitution still in force in the world, and it starts out with three words, ‘We, the people.’” But where is the genuine constitutionalist? Nobody seems to be consistent in his or her analysis. Politicians call journalists “Enemies of the People,” because they see them as biased. Perhaps a small number of these journalists may be partisan, grandstand-
By Greg Markley
ing or unfair. Yet, they are protected by the 1st Amendment to investigate and write as they see fit. A person may be 100% for the 2nd Amendment, and very knowledgeable about issues or court cases that involve gun- owner rights. Yet, this same person has a problem with the 4th Amendment, since search and seizure has been widened under the U.S.A Patriot Act. Other people get upset with the provisions of the 6th Amendment (Rights of Accused Persons in Criminal Cases). How can they call themselves consti-
tutional purists when they fiercely oppose one or more amendments? When Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was captured by American troops in December 2003, I discussed the good news with friends. Several of them said, “Kill the bastard.” I was the only one there who said, “No, that would send the wrong signal that the U.S. was ruthless and doesn’t care about the rule of law or our own Constitution. Let’s go through the full legal process—then Kill the bastard.” They liked that plan! Then there are suggested amendments that don’t get that far towards being part of the Constitution. The most recent legislative attempt to propose a Flag Desecration Amendment failed in the U.S. Senate by
one vote on June 27, 2006. In June 2019, Sen. Steve Daines, Republican of Montana, sought revisions of the previously unsuccessful amendment language and that may advance the legislation somewhat. However, sponsors of the Flag Desecration Amendment must know it is unlikely to become part of the U.S. Constitution. It still has considerable hurdles to being enacted. Yet, many politicians in Washington keep on supporting the proposed amendment. Why? Is it just for show, or to pander to a voter base? For some politicians, it may be. But probably not most of them. Still, the pursuit of this amendment endures as a voterpleasing concept. The 1st Amendment and legal challenges against flag-burning
clearly describe desecration of the flag as protected “free expression.” Another often submitted constitutional change is the Balanced-Budget Amendment. This is a nice-sounding idea, but for different reasons, members of the right and the left have issues with it. Yet, they gain political points just for supporting it. About 15 years ago, an AUM professor told a class that once she asked her military students at Maxwell AFB if they had ever read the full Constitution. I recall that only 4-of-25 students said yes, they had. As military personnel, they were paid to protect the ideals embodied in that founding document, but they had never read it. Interesting! See Markley, page A5
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A5 Oct. 02, 2019
Goodwill To Hold Career and Resource Fair centered on diversity and inclusion Special to the Opelika Observer In the spirit of celebrating and recognizing diversity in the workplace, Goodwill will be holding the “Working Together Career and Community Resource Fair” on Oct. 10 at the Goodwill
Community Campus in Columbus. The months of September and October put a spotlight on diversity and inclusion with Hispanic Heritage Month running from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, National Diversity Week the first full week of October and
National Disability Employment Awareness Month during the whole month of October. Helping people to find sustainable employment is an essential part of GoodwillSR’s mission of “Developing People, Building Communi-
ties and Changing Lives.” GoodwillSR hosts multiple job fairs and provides free career readiness and job placement programs throughout the year to help people in East Alabama and West Georgia find work. The event will be held Oct. 10 from 10
a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Goodwill Community Campus, which is located at 2601 Cross Country Drive in Columbus. Job seekers should come dressed for success and ready to interview with multiple copies of their resume in-hand. Individuals are
Opelika Chamber of Commerce holds breakfast for first responders Friday
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer The Opelika Chamber had the priviledge of honoring our First Responders at their annual breakfast on Sept. 27. Thanks so much to the sponsors of this valued event. Special thanks to many children at Trinity Christian Academy and Opelika City Schools, as well as citizens, for writing "thank you" notes to these brave men and women. Presenting sponsors were East Alabama Medical Center, Renasant Bank, Huntingdon College, Opelika Sportsplex and Aquatics Center. Supporting sponsors were Baxter International, Hanwha, Pharmavite LLC, Spectrum Reach and Trinity Christian Academy.
Health, from A3 are highly treatable, many people do not receive the treatment they need. Nationally, more than half of people with mental illnesses did not receive treatment during the last year, according to the same MHA report referenced earlier. In Alabama, 474,000 adults with a mental illness did not receive treatment in the past year, out of the 737,000 Alabamian adults with a mental illness, according to the same report. A significant challenge to treatment is stigma, as is described by NAMI on the page of their Stigma Free Me program. Because of the false beliefs that mental illness is caused by weakness or a lack of character, or out of fear of judgement from those who hold these beliefs, many individuals do not seek help, despite the welldocumented nature of mental illnesses as brain disorders that are comparable to other physiological diseases.
Fuller, from A4 about your silver lining! “LUCY!!!! Come
Serious Mental Illness and the Phenomenon of Anosognosia Another challenge that occurs in many of the most severe cases of mental illness is the inability of the patient to comprehend that they need help. Many people with serious mental illnesses experience anosognosia, a condition that blocks self-awareness, leading to an inability of patients to recognize that something is wrong, as is explained on NAMI’s website. Dr. Dennis Shannon, who serves as president of NAMI of East Alabama and is a professor with the College of Agriculture at Auburn University, said that he has seen the stress experienced by families who find themselves unable to help a loved one suffering from a serious mental illness. Anosognosia presents a barrier to treatment because, except for in cases where a legal agreement is already in place, families often cannot compel a loved one to enter treatment unless the loved one makes a clear threat to harm either him or herself, or somebody
else. Shannon said that while any bystander is considered morally bound to help a stranger having a heart attack, not even close family members can help in many cases of serious mental illness. NAMI explains that when an individual has already experienced a mental health crisis, that individual may wish to draft a psychiatric advanced directive, enabling family members to make important health decisions in a future crisis. How to Seek Help For anyone who is struggling or considering seeking treatment, East Alabama Mental Health has a hotline available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for emergencies that may also be used during business hours for non-emergencies, at 800- 8150630 or 334-742-2877. NAMI also has a helpline that is available from Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or by email info@nami.org. The two main facilities in Opelika are East Alabama Mental Health Center, lo-
cated at 2506 Lambert Ave. and is reachable at 334- 742-2700, and East Alabama Psychiatric Services, which is located at 2740 Village Professional Dr. in Opelika. Rivertown Psychiatry offers walk-in visits and is located at 2123 Executive Park Dr. in Opelika. How to Get Involved For more information on World Mental Health Day, visit www. who.int/mental_health/ world-mental-healthday/en/. To learn more about Mental Health Awareness Week, visit www. nami.org/get-involved/ awareness-events/mental-illness-awarenessweek. To become involved locally, Shannon said that the East Alabama chapter of NAMI always encourages new members to join. He explained that as membership increases, the local chapter can provide more programs and educational meetings. NAMI of East Alabama meets at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce at 714 E. Glenn Ave. on the third Tuesday of each month.
here. Come hear.” I yelled. “You gotta hear this!” The next day, I had to take the hay back and ran into two older gentlemen. That’s a whole ‘nother story, but it started like
this. “What kind of horses does your wife have?” one asked. “A black one and a grey one,” I said. Go talk to and listen to a stranger today. Trust me. Why? Go re-
read the first paragraph. Jody Fuller is a comic, a speaker, and a soldier. He can be reached at jody@jodyfuller.com. For more information, please visit www.jodyfuller. com.
Dietrich, from A4 every Friday. Bring a casserole. Another friend (a sports physician) believes the “paleo diet” is the way to go. He explains that Paleo is based on the carnivorous diet that stone-age humans ate during the Paleolithic era, back when the average life expectancy of a male was 22 years. My friend Tyler went gluten-free last month. He says he feels great and has more energy. We visited his house for dinner. His wife served us pasta made of mung bean curds. And I’ll be honest, sometimes I get so confused. Should I eat bacon or not? Are egg yolks going to kill me? What’s the word on potted meat? For answers, I turned to an old retired doctor. He is a sweet elderly
Markley, from A4 Perhaps Theodor Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss, said it best: “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” That translated for us means if you read the 16 typed
also encouraged to visit our career centers and take advantage of our free career readiness classes that include resume building, interview skills and many other skills workshops. For more information please contact the Midtown Career Center at 706-256-1837.
Vision, from A3 Leisa Askew with the Lee-Russell Council of Government’s Area Agency on Aging spoke on the services her organization offers area seniors. The group’s next monthly meeting is on Oct. 15 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the EAMC Education Center, located at 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information, call Fulton at 334705-2024 (office) or send emails to shiquita.fulton@ rehab.alabama.gov or Pinyerd at donnapinyerd@charter. net.
man with deep lines in his face. I trust him because he smells like Old Spice, and he wears his pants a little high on the waist. I asked him what his opinion was about everything. “Oh,” he said, “I’ve seen lots of trends, but I’m old, I’ve seen a lot. Do you know what I’ve found the best health practice to be?” “Be happy, be nice, use moderation, and eat whatever the hell you want.” Then he shined a light in my ear canal and said, “Hey, I can see daylight on the other side.” Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and novelist, known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Southern Living, the Tallahassee Democrat, Southern Magazine, Yellowhammer News, the Bitter Southerner, the Mobile Press Register and he has authored seven books.
pages of the U.S. Constitution, you will know it much better. And you will be a better citizen, not just during Constitution Week, but all year. Greg Markley has lived in Lee County for 18 of the past 23 years. An awardwinning journalist, he has masters’s degrees in education and history. He has taught as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama.
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A6 Oct. 02, 2019
Red Clay Brewing wins Best Cider award at ‘Crush Wine & Food Festival’ last week
Getting to know your watershed Special to the Opelika Observer Next time you’re driving through downtown, or on one of Opelika’s many backroads, take a second to look at the landscape around you. Did you ever think about what happens when rain falls on parking lots and roads? Or where that heavy rain drains to after a hard storm? When it comes to water quality and watersheds, there is an often inconspicuous story going on around us. Once you’ve learned how to see it, however, you can also easily see how to make a difference.
We all live in a watershed, and if you live in Opelika, you may actually live in the Pepperell Branch Watershed, which encompasses most of downtown Opelika. A watershed is a geographically defined area of land through which rainwater drains by flowing across, through, or under the soil surface to a common low point, typically a stream, river, lake or ocean. That means that most of the water flowing over the City of Opelika is also draining to a central low point - that low point is the Pepperell Branch. Most of you are probably familiar
with Pepperell - it’s a small waterbody that feeds into Saugahatchee Creek just downstream of where the city gets most of its drinking water supply. Did you know that the Pepperell Branch is almost seven miles long, and that the water from roughly 14 square miles in Opelika drains to Pepperell Branch? You may have seen an image of a watershed on some signs around town recently created by the Pepperell Branch Watershed Partnership. Next time, take a closer look to see the parts of a watershed and how they function.
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer The top medal-winning wineries in Alabama were honored in an awards ceremony at the Crush Wine & Food Festival held recently at Big Spring Park in Huntsville. Opelika’s Red Clay Brewing brought home three awards: gold for their Lakeside Murder Creek Cider, silver for the Lakeside Cider and bronze for their 3 Ravens Cider.
Career Discovery 2019 CAREER EXPO
October 3 - 4, 2019
Image submitted to the Opelika Observer
A fun, educational, hands-on experience! A chance to get an overview of career opportunities available in the area, showcased in 11 career clusters!
Agriculture
Architecture & Construction
Communications & Information Technology
Education & Training
Hospitality, Tourism & Recreation
Manufacturing
Automotive Manufacturing
Healthcare
HABITAT Around the
T
Public Service
Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
Energy & Utilities
Open to all 8th grade students in Region 5. (public, private, home school, etc. in Autauga, Bullock, Chambers, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Montgomery, Perry, Russell, and Tallapoosa counties.)
Hosted on the Opelika campus of:
Southern Union State Community College
HEART THURSDAY
OCTOBER 10, 2019 Saugahatchee Country Club 3800 Bent Creek Road
6–9 PM
October 3- 4, 2019
Catered by Club Chef Cash Bar and Piano Music Fantastic Auction
Thank You to our Platinum Sponsors!
TICKETS $50
Tickets available at www.auburnopelikahabitat.org 334-745-2123 or any Habitat Board Member Presenting Sponsor For more information, visit:
www.career-discovery.org
Opelika E vents, Society, & Food
CALENDAR OF EVENTS: • Oct. 1-5 - 73rd annual Lee County Fair • Oct. 12 and 13 - East Alabama Gun and Hunting Show • Oct. 19 - On the Tracks • Oct. 19 - 48th annual ‘Pioneer Day’ in Loachapoka • Oct. 25 - 3rd annual AuburnOpelika Wine Trail
Bake a fresh batch of cookies for after school snacks Ann Cipperly’s
Southern
Hospitality
W
ith a tint of color in trees around town, fall will soon be on its way with cooler temperatures. It has been a hot summer, and cooler temperatures will be a welcome relief. When the temperature turns cooler, fill the house with the sweet aroma of cookies fresh from the oven. Cookies are a popular after-school treat with a tall glass of milk. When my children were growing up, cookies were their favorite after-school snack. It seemed the cookies were disappearing faster than I could bake them. No
surprise, since their Dad was grabbing a handful as well. One of my sons, who is now in missile defense, still prefers cookies for dessert over cakes and pies. When we visit, I know he will enjoy a batch of cookies more than any other baked goods. While I was looking over my files of cookie recipes, it brought back many memories of baking for my children. Chocolate chip and peanut butter cookies were favorites. They also liked a No-Bake Cookie made with cocoa, milk, butter, oatmeal and peanut butter.
Timing was key for this cookie, as over boiling Photo by Ann Cipperly would make them too hard, Homemade cookies are a popular after-school treat to serve with tall glasses of milk. and undercooking made a Bake a batch or two this week for after-school snacks or to share with friends and sticky cookie. neighbors. The easiest cookies of all desserts as well as cookAvenue in downtown Ope- Her mother served banana to prepare have only three ies. If you enjoyed getting pudding for dessert on lika. She served lunch and ingredients. Easy Peanut cookies from Martha when Sundays after church. catered. It was a wonderful Butter Cookies combine she had the bakery, you When Martha was about place to have lunch. peanut butter, sugar and will want to clip and save Martha closed the restau- 8 years old, she began an egg. Kids love to make her cookie recipes. helping her mother make rant in 2001 and did other these, and with no flour it Later, Martha sold the banana pudding. jobs before returning to keeps clean up to a miniSweet Shoppe, and it had She learned to make downtown with Venable’s mum. another owner before more desserts while in Sweet Shoppe on 9th In the cookie files, I closing. Street. While she was bak- high school. After Martha found several cookie I saw Martha last spring married she began cooking, she was still catering. recipes from Martha Venat the Campus Club Tea. ing more, which led her Martha was born and able when she opened the She was busy helping to helping Ursula Higgins raised in Little Texas Sweet Shoppe in downcaterer Billy Lee, but she cater. town Opelika. Martha first in Macon County. Her At the Sweet Shoppe, mother and both grandopened Venable’s RestauMartha offered assorted mothers were good cooks. rant in 1993 on Railroad See Cipperly, page A11
Annual cemetery tour on Oct. 17 and 18 The Kingdom Choir to perform illuminates Auburn's rich heritage, past in Opelika Oct. 20 at OPAC By Morgan Bryce Editor
By Morgan Bryce Editor
Relive Auburn’s rich past during the Auburn Heritage Association’s “Pine Hill Cemetery Lantern Tour” on Oct. 17 and 18. According to the association’s president Mary Norman, the event started in 1996 and has been held annually since 2004. The tour serves as both a fundraiser and a way to raise awareness on the importance of historic preservation.
The Arts Association of East Alabama is hosting "The Kingdom Choir" from southern England in concert at
the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts on Oct. 20. Conducted and led by Director Karen Gibson, the choir made its presence felt on the international
stage during Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's royal wedding last year with a rendition of the Ben E. King classic "Stand By See Choir, page A8
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Amanda Bain shares a story with the audience during a previous year’s tour of Pine Hill Cemetery. Norman said the monies raised during the two days of the event are used for improvements
and maintenance in both Pine Hill and Pinetucket See Tour, page A8
The Kingdom Choir
Monday-Saturday 11 AM - 8 PM
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A8 Oct. 02, 2019
The Red Oak Farm in Lafayette to open this weekend By Morgan Bryce Editor Enjoy finding a path out of a corn maze shaped like the state of Alabama, interacting with barnyard animals or finding the perfect pumpkin at The Red Oak Farm, a new fallfun destination opening Oct. 5 in Lafayette. Owned by James and Natalie Gilbert, the farm is situated on more than 200 acres of clear-cut land purchased by the couple in late 2017. James said he and Natalie have taken their girls to other corn mazes across the Southeast, and that they inspired him to create a similar concept at his farm. “There’s been a few of them around here, but nothing over the
top like we’ve been to. I said to myself, ‘if a man built one of these from scratch, he could do pretty well at it,’” James said. “After 18 months of hard work getting this land ready ... it’s great to be so close to opening.” Though the farm will primarily be used for James and his father Travis’s cattle business “Gilbert Land and Cattle,” he said he plans to grow and expand the farm’s activities each fall, particularly after his retirement from the Auburn Fire Department within the next three years. The month of October will serve as a “time to get the word out about the farm,” according to James. The front portion of the land, 25 to 30 acres in size, will be used for
this fall’s activities on the farm. In addition to other aforementioned activities will be a swing set (with seats made from red oaks found on the farm), slide, miniature corn crib and stack of hay bales known as "hay mountain." There are multiple places across the property that James said will serve as great "photo opportunity" spots. Refreshments including soda and water will be sold at the farm, and James said he is in the process of finalizing food options for the venue. Underneath the farm's barn and pavilion will be picnic tables for families to sit and eat and enjoy the fall weather. Pumpkins will also be for sale on a trailer underneath the
Photos submitted to the Opelika Observer barn. "We hope our customer base grows with us ... whether that's one, five or 15 years from now. I want it to be a tradition that parents bring their kids to each year and make lots of lasting memories," James said.
Red Oak will be open each weekend during the month of October, with hours of 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 1 to 6 p.m. on Sundays. On opening weekend, teachers will receive free admission with proper ID. Three weeks
later, the same offer will be extended to first responders and law enforcement officers. For more information or updates, call 334-750-0894 or visit www.theredoakfarm. com. The farm is located at 6268 County Road 83.
Tour, from A7
by 1,500 luminaries and view the cemetery's beauty as well as interact with actors in period costumes who portray various individuals who are buried at Pine Hill. Lisa Ditchkoff, owner and operator of downtown Opelika's Bottling Plant Event Center, said she has participated for the last eight years portraying different characters and enjoys bringing history to life. "It's a little creepy being in a dark cemetery at the graveside of the (deceased) person ... but it's a fun event that supports a great cause," Ditchkoff said. Norman added that the event has become an established tradition and something people look forward to throughout the year.
"We have a lot of people on our Facebook page that want to know when it is. After people go through it for the first time, I hear a lot of them (say) I didn't know this or I didn't know that about that," Norman said. "We have a very loyal following and a lot of repeats." Parking is available at East Samford School, and there are trolleys available for those with accessibility issues. Tickets are $10 at the gate and $5 for high school or Auburn University students. For more information, like and follow the group's Facebook page or visit www.auburnheritageassoc.org. The cemetery is located at 111 Armstrong St. in Auburn.
North American tour promoting their latest album, also titled "Stand By Me." In an album review printed in The Guardian, a daily British newspaper, the writer
wrote that the recording shows their wide array of influences and their adeptness to transform well-known hits like Coldplay's "Fix You" into an almost unrecognizable but still beautiful piece. Tickets can be purchased online through www.seatadvisor.com. They range in price from $20 to $130. Showtime is set for 7:30 p.m. For more information, like and follow the East Alabama Art Association's Facebook page or visit www.eastalabamaarts. org. The venue is located inside of Opelika High School at 1700 Lafayette Parkway.
cemeteries. Norman explained that Pine Hill Cemetery specifically was founded in 1837 by Judge John Harper, widely known as the city of Auburn’s founder. After gifting the six acres to the city he helped create, his son was the first person to be buried there. It is the oldest cemetery in the city and is the burial place of several Auburn University presidents and well-known residents with historical significance. Each tour is nearly 90 minutes in length. Norman said visitors will be led by their guides along a path illuminated
Choir, from A7 Me." The choir is currently on its first sold-out
Be sure to visit the following merchants during the event
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A10 Oct. 02, 2019
The Brook and The Bluff to release new album, perform in Opelika on Oct. 25 Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer The Brook and The Bluff have announced their debut full-length album, “First Place,” coming out Oct. 25. So far, they have shared smooth single "Shelby" off the album and the enchanting video for "Hallways," with more to come soon. With vocal harmonies reminiscent of bands like Rex Orange County and Hippo Campus, what began as a duo of Alec Bolton and Joseph Settine transformed into the dynamic live act with John Canada and Fred Lankford filling out the band. The Brook and The Bluff’s first EP was widely successful - charting on Spotify's US and Canada Viral 50 Playlists (7.2 million total artist Spotify streams) and selling out shows across the country. Along with the album, the band recently announced a national tour including stops at the Moon River Music Festival in Chattanooga, Austin, Nashville, Los Angeles and more. Their Opelika show will begin at 7 p.m. at The Railyard in downtown.
The Brook and The Bluff
Americana folk artist Amy Speace to make Sundilla debut on Oct. 4 Special to the Opelika Observer Acclaimed American folk artist Amy Speace will make her long-overdue Sundilla Concert Series debut on Oct. 4. Speace’s music has an ethereal and timeless feel, according to music critics. “She has one of the richest and loveliest voices in the genre and her songs are
luxuriously smart,” wrote journalist Craig Havighurst, host of Nashville’s “Music City Roots.” “She’s profoundly personal yet also a bit mythic.” Since Speace’s discovery in 2006 by folk-pop icon Judy Collins, who signed her to her own imprint Wildflower Records, she has been heralded as one of the leading voices of the new generation of American
folk singers. Her song “The Weight of the World” was named as the fourth-best folk song of the last decade. Her songs have been recorded by Judy Collins, Red Molly, Memphis Hall of Fame bluesman Sid Selvidge and many others. Amy has been featured on NPR’s “All Things Considered” and “Marketplace” and has
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Speace appeared four times on “Mountain Stage,” as well as many folk
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festivals around the world. Showtime at the
Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship is 7:30 p.m., and fans can get advance tickets for just $15 at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee and online at sundillamusic. com. Admission at the door will be $20. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available at the show, and the audience is welcome to bring their own favorite food or beverage. For more information, go to www. sundillamusic.com. The venue is located at 450 E. Thach Ave.
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pelika O Observer Cipperly, from A7 had a couple of minutes for a hug and a quick catch-up. Barbara Arrington also enjoys baking cookies and
Recipes Yummy Oatmeal Cookies with Craisins, White Chocolate and Walnuts Ginelle Weissinger 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar 1 cup brown sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla Cream butter with sugars; add eggs and vanilla, beating well. 2 cups all-purpose flour 1½ tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. salt Combine flour, cinnamon, soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture. 3 cups oatmeal 1 cup chopped walnuts 1½ cups Craisins 1½ cups white chocolate chips Stir in above ingredients. Drop by spoonful onto cookie sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for about 12 minutes. Amy’s Lemon Gems 3/4 cup butter, softened ½ cup powdered sugar 1 Tbsp. grated lemon peel 1 cup all-purpose flour ½ cup cornstarch ¼ cup colored nonpareils or colored sugar Lemon Icing: 1 cup powdered sugar 2 Tbsp. lemon juice ½ tsp. grated lemon peel In a small bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in lemon peel. Combine flour and cornstarch; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until easy to handle. Shape into a 1¾ inch diameter roll; roll in nonpareils or sugar. Wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours or until firm. Unwrap and cut in ¼ inch slices. Place 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 9-11 minutes or until set and edges are lightly browned. Cool for 1 minute before removing to wire racks to cool completely. In a small bowl, combine icing ingredients. Spread over cookies. Peanut Butter Cookies Martha Venable 1 cup sugar 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup crunchy peanut butter 1 Tbsp. buttermilk 2 eggs 1 tsp. baking soda 2 cups flour Mix together first 6 ingredients. Whisk together flour and baking soda; add to first mixture. Shape into small balls, then press flat with a fork. Bake for 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Easy Brownies Martha Venable 1 cup butter 3/4 cup cocoa 1/4 cup vegetable oil 2 cup sugar 2 tsp. vanilla 4 eggs 1 1/3 cup self-rising
makes them to share with her Sunday school class. She bakes three batches for class members to savor with a cup of coffee before the lesson begins in the Thomas Samford Sunday School class. When Arrington was growing up in Beaumont,
flour 1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray an 8 or 9- inch square pan or brush with oil. Dust lightly with a little cocoa or flour and tap out excess. In a medium pan, melt butter. Stir in cocoa and oil. Remove pan from heat and cool for 15 minutes. In a bowl, combine sugar and vanilla. Beat in eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in flour and remaining ingredients (do not over mix to avoid tough brownies). Spread evenly in prepared pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until center springs back when touched lightly with fingertip. Cool completely on wire rack before cutting into squares. Peanut Butter Brownies Barbara Arrington 3 eggs 1 cup butter, melted 2 tsp. vanilla extract 2 cups sugar 1¼ cups all-purpose flour ¾ cup baking cocoa ½ tsp. baking powder ¼ tsp. salt 1 cup milk chocolate chips Filling: 2 pkg. (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened ½ cup creamy peanut butter ¼ cup sugar 1 egg 2 tsp. 2% milk In a large bowl, beat eggs, butter and vanilla until smooth. Combine dry ingredients; gradually add to egg mixture. Stir in chocolate chips. Set aside 1 cup for topping. Spread remaining batter into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan. In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, peanut butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and milk on low just until combined. Carefully spread over batter. Drop reserved batter by tablespoonfuls over filling. Cut through batter with a knife to swirl. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean (do not over bake). Cool on a wire rack. Chill until serving. Makes 3 dozen. Chocolate Chip Cookies Barbara Arrington 2 cups all-purpose flour 2½ cups uncooked oats, finely ground ½ tsp. salt 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar 1 cup brown sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla extract 2 cups (12 oz.) semisweet chocolate chips 4 oz. milk chocolate bar, grated 1½ cups chopped
Texas, her mother taught her to cook, but she was more interested in baking desserts, starting with pies. Barbara remembers her father could never decide what kind of pie he liked the best, so he would have a slice of each one. Her tips for successfully
nuts (optional) Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line cookie sheets with parchment. In a medium bowl whisk together flour, finely ground oats, salt, baking powder and baking soda until well blended; set aside. In a large bowl with an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, and vanilla extract until creamy. Stir in flour mixture just until incorporated. Do not over mix. Stir in remaining ingredients. Make golf-ball size cookies and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared cookie sheets. Flatten slightly with bottom of glass until they are about ½ inch thick. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until cookies are golden around edges but still soft on top. Makes about 60 cookies. Blondies Martha Venable ½ cup butter, melted 1 cup tightly packed dark brown sugar 1 egg, lightly beaten 1 tsp. vanilla ½ tsp. baking powder 1/8 tsp. baking soda Pinch of salt 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/3 cup butterscotch chips Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Lightly butter and flour an 8 by 8-inch pan. Whisk together the melted butter and sugar in a bowl. Add the egg and vanilla extract and whisk. Add the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt, mix it all together. Add the butterscotch chips or other mix-ins. Pour into the pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool. Cut into squares and serve. No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies 1/3 cup butter or margarine 1/3 cup cocoa 2 cups sugar 1 small can evaporated milk 2 cups quick cooking oatmeal ½ cup peanut butter 1 tsp. vanilla In a medium sized saucepan, melt butter; add cocoa, sugar and milk. Bring to a boil over medium to medium high heat. Boil for 3 to 4 minutes or until a soft ball is formed when dropped into a cup of cold water. Remove from heat. Add oatmeal, stirring well. Stir in peanut butter and vanilla. Drop by teaspoons onto greased waxed or foil sheets. Cool. For a fancier cookie, drop by teaspoons into greased mini muffin cups and top each with a pecan
baking cookies include lining baking pans with parchment paper to prevent cookies from sticking. When combining flour, baking powder and salt, she fluffs the mixture together with a whisk. She uses unsalted butter and keeps the cookie
half. Pecan Sticks Martha Venable 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar 2 cup flour 3 tsp. cinnamon 1 cup chopped pecans 1 egg, separated Cream butter and sugar. Add egg yolk. Sift together flour and cinnamon, then add to creamed ingredients. Pat mixture into a greased 9 by 13-inch pan, then brush the egg white over top of the mixture. Sprinkle the pecans, pressing them slightly down into mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Let cool before cutting into bars. Easy Peanut Butter Cookies 1 cup peanut butter, smooth or crunchy 1 cup sugar 1 egg Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium sized bowl, mix peanut butter and sugar. Add egg and blend well. Drop by teaspoons onto greased cookie sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Ruth’s Pecan Toffee Chip Cookies 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened ½ cup granulated sugar 1/3 cup packed lightbrown sugar 1 large egg ½ tsp. vanilla 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. salt 1 ½ cups toffee chips 1 cup chopped pecans, optional Preheat the oven to 350°. In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine butter and sugars; beat until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla. In a medium bowl, mix flours, baking soda and salt until combined. Stir in toffee chips and nuts. Drop cookies onto greased cookie sheets. Bake until golden about 10 to 12 minutes. Pecan Snickerdoodles Barbara Arrington 2½ cups all-purpose flour 1 cup finely chopped pecans 2 tsp. cream of tartar 1 tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. salt 1 cup (2 sticks) butter or margarine, slightly softened 1¾ cups sugar, divided 2 eggs 1 tsp. ground cinnamon Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix flour, pecans, cream of tartar, baking soda and salt in large bowl; set aside. Beat butter and 1½ cups of the sugar in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add eggs; beat until
A11 Oct. 02, 2019 dough in the refrigerator between baking batches. Arrington is Mayor Gary Fuller’s administrative assistant. A few other good cooks are also sharing their favorite cookie recipes. When the kids come home from school this
well blended. Add dry ingredients; beat on low speed until well mixed. Form dough into 1-inch balls. Mix remaining ¼ cup sugar and cinnamon. Roll balls in cinnamon sugar. Place 2 inches apart on baking sheets. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on baking sheets 1 minute. Remove to wire racks; cool completely. Makes about 6 dozen. Oatmeal Cranberry Spice Cookies Martha Venable 1½ cups flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. salt 2 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. allspice 2 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla 3/4 cup shortening 3/4 cup brown sugar 3/4 cup white sugar 1½ cups whole oats 1½ cups dried cranberries Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In medium bowl sift flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and all spice. In separate large bowl, cream together shortening, brown sugar, and white sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla. Combine well. Add flour mixture to wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Then add oats, cranberries and chocolate if you so desire. Use 1/4 cup and scoop onto cookie sheet. You should get about 6 per sheet. Bake for at least 8 minutes but most likely will bake for 12 depending on your oven. Double Chocolate Cookies 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. salt 1 cup sugar 1 cup packed brown sugar ½ cup butter or margarine, softened 2 eggs 2 Tbsp. milk 1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheet with aluminum foil shiny side up. Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt; set aside. Cream sugars and butter. Beat in eggs, milk and vanilla until well combined. Stir in flour mixture just until blended. Add chocolate chips. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto ungreased foil lined baking sheet. Bake 12 to 14 minutes. Cool
week, have plenty of cold milk on hand and a fresh batch of cookies waiting. If there aren’t any children in the house, bake cookies for a fall treat to share with friends. Ann Cipperly can be reached at recipes@cipperly.com.
on wire rack completely before peeling foil from cookies. Makes about 4 dozen. Surprise Cookies 1 and 1/2 cups butter or margarine, softened 3/4 cup sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 and 1/2 cups chopped nuts, optional 14 oz pkg. milk chocolate candy kisses Confectioners’ sugar 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 Tbsp. shortening In large bowl, beat butter, sugar and vanilla until light and fluffy. Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup; level off. Add flour and nuts; beat at low speed until well blended. Cover; refrigerate at least one hour for easier handling. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Shape scant tablespoonful dough around each candy kiss, covering completely. Roll in hands to form ball. Place on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake at 375 for 8 to 12 minutes or until set and bottom edges are light golden brown. Cool 1 minute; remove from cookie sheets. Cool completely. Lightly sprinkle cooled cookies with powdered sugar. In small saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate chips and shortening, stirring until smooth. (Can melt in microwave.) Drizzle over each cookie. Makes about 6 dozen cookies.
Food Ratings Side Track Coffee 817 S. Railroad Ave. Opelika Score: 100 Red Clay Brewing Company 704 N. Railroad Ave. Opelika Score: 100 Arby’s 2411 Gateway Drive Opelika Score: 100 Chipotle 2125 Interstate Drive Opelika Score: 99 Niffer’s at the Tracks 917 S. Railroad Ave. Opelika Score: 99 Moe’s Southwest Grill 2574 Enterprise Drive Opelika Score: 99 Wendy’s 1002 2nd Ave. Opelika Score: 99 Full Moon BBQ 2494 Enterprise Drive Opelika Score: 98
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A12 Oct. 02, 2019
Guiding your child to share and care By Beth Pinyerd For the Opelika Observer
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uke 10:27 - “He answered: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and, Love your neighbor as yourself.’” What a wonderful world we would have if everyone took the time to share what they have with others! To meet the needs of others with food, material items or time are lessons that we need to teach our young children. In working with young children, we must realize that it is very hard for them to share. We have to guide them by being a good role model on sharing. As
you sit down, play and interact with your child, role play with them situations of sharing. Praise and encourage your child when they share. All children are born unique and special; some children will share without being asked or taught this. But for most children, sharing is very hard. Much of a very young child's identity is locked into what they have such as a teddy bear or doll. Looking at developmental stages of children, toddlers, twos and threes think more of their needs, whereas children at age 4 begin to really understand what it means to share. Children who are 6, 7 and 8 learn the importance of sharing and cooperating with other children. As a teacher of young children, I'd like to
share some methods I've used and learned from the classroom as well as from other teachers and resources: 1. There are so many good books about sharing. Our local librarians would be glad to help you find books, videos or DVDS on sharing. 2. Demonstrate sharing and generosity by example. Take the time to let your young child share. It may be cutting in half a piece of fruit with your young child. Tell your child they are a star if they share it with you. 3. With your preschooler, point out and discuss other people's needs such as mom, dad, siblings and people in the neighborhood. In making gifts for parents with young children a child might say their favorite color is a certain
By Beth Pinyerd
one. Ask them what their parents' favorite color is in making their parents a gift. The same can go for food - they may say I like cheese pizza, but ask them to think what mom or dad may like, such as pepperoni pizza, in which they would need to learn to share other people's favorites. 4. Praise children when they share with other people in the family. Hug, verbally encourage and let them know that you are
happy when they share. According to their age, if older children still haven't learned to share as they should, such as keeping all the toys to themselves, it is important that the parents show they disapprove of selfishness. Don't be too harsh, but positively start guiding your young child in steps of sharing. 5. In working with your child in sharing their toys with friends, consider separating their toys. In teaching them to share step-by-step, your child may have some of their favorite toys you might consider putting up in order to avoid arguments. Ask your child to decide upon toys they would like to share in playing together. 6. It's neat to sit back and watch little ones learn to share between
each other. Children can learn from their peers on how to share. They learn the key word “compromise." 7. Children can also have the character traits of love, kindness and patience which young children express in many ways as they interact with each other. A craft lesson I love to do with children is to make helping hands. These helping hands can be pulled like coupons to help you on a busy day. And it teaches your child responsibility, as well as sharing and caring. It's so wonderful to step back and watch your young child share on his own. Parents, you are very special to take extra time to teach your child to share. When we share, it shows we care.
OBITUARIES Richard Thomas Landreth
Mary Bishop Still Mary Bishop Still, 94, of Opelika, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Thursday, September 26, 2019 at Arbor Springs Health and Rehab. A funeral service was held Saturday, September 28, 2019, at 11:00 A.M. at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home and Crematory. Visitation was held prior to the service beginning at 10:00 A.M. Mrs. Still worked along side her husband Dewey Still running their business Still Service Station for over 40 years. She was well respected and developed many longlasting friendships in and around the Opelika area. She was a long time member of First Baptist Church of Opelika which she loved very much. She is preceded in
death by her parents Father John Thomas Bishop and Mother Annie Esther Bishop, Son-in-law Rick Fussell, Grandson Clay McBurney, Great Grandson Justin McBurney. She is survived by her husband of 77 years Dewey Still; her children Faye (Bobby) McBurney; Angie Fussell; Anita (Frank ) Cox; six grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; one great-greatgrandchild. Mary was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister; she will be greatly missed. Family has requested in lieu of flower donations be made to Alzheimer’s Association or First Baptist Church Opelika Building Fund in memory of Mary Bishop Still.
On Thursday, September 26, 2019 Richard Thomas Landreth, loving husband and father of 3 children, passed away at the age of 59. Tommy was born on April 2, 1960 to John Thomas and Celia Landreth in Valley, Alabama . He worked at West Point Stevens for 30 years, retired. Returned to work at Hanwah manufacturing for 9 years. On November 27th, 1982 he married the love of his life Adis Regina Tillis. They raised 3 children Heather, Justin and Alyssa. Tommy had a passion for his family. He was known for his quick wit, his infectious smile, and his kind and compassionate spirit. He loved capturing special moments on his old disposable wind up cameras.
He was a country boy who loved horses, dogs and working in the yard planting flowers. He could turn junk into treasure he had an eye for details. Tommy was preceded in death by his father, John Thomas, and his mother, Celia. He is survived by his wife Regina, his 3 children and Spouses, Heather and Jonathan, Justin and Brianna, Alyssa and Nick. His 5 grandchildren Hannah, Alex, Andrew Kal-El, Chloe and Cooper. His brother John, sister Cathy, and several cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles. He’s now home. A memorial service was held at The Bridge Church, Saturday, September 28, 2019 at 11:00 a.m.
Jean Marie Lacey Jean Marie Lacey of Opelika was born to the late Charlie and Margaret Cain on April 30, 1932 and passed away at Arbor Springs on September 24, 2019. She was 87 years old. A memorial service was held Thursday, September 26, 2019 in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home at 5:00 p.m. Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.
To have your loved one’s obituary published in the Opelika Observer, email editor@ opelikaobserver.com or call 334-749-8003
George “Pooker” Ellington Robertson Funeral services for George “Pooker” Ellington Robertson were held on Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at the sanctuary in the First United Methodist Church of Opelika. Graveside service will follow at Oak Bowery Cemetery. A visitation followed the graveside service at the Robertson Family cabin in Oak Bowery. George “Pooker” Ellington Robertson, Jr., 76 years old of Gold Hill, AL, passed away at his home on Sunday, September 22, 2019. George was born March 17, 1943 to George Ellington Robertson and Josephine Summers Robertson. At some point in George’s childhood, he was given the name “Pooker” although he was never able to tell anyone
why. Pooker was a lifelong resident of Gold Hill, Alabama. He attended Chambers County Schools. Pooker regularly got in trouble with his mother for leaving perfectly good pairs of shoes on the bus in favor of going to school barefoot. He graduated from Lafayette High School in 1961, where he served as class president. Pooker took this responsibility seriously and hosted reunions for his class annually up until a few years ago. He went on to graduate from Auburn University in Animal Husbandry. Pooker was a country boy who grew into a country gentleman and a successful farmer. He was a rural mail carrier for the US Postal Service
(Lafayette route) for over 20 years. He ran a cattle farm and grew vegetables and roses. His roses were well known to many in the community who were ill or needed arrangements to brighten their homes. As a member of the Opelika First United Methodist Church, Pooker regularly provided flowers from his garden for the sanctuary. He always had a rose on his suit lapel.Pooker was active in the Alabama Cattleman’s Association, Alabama Soil and Water Conservation Committee, and on the board for the Farmer’s Service Agency. He received numerous awards for his work as a farmer, including being a finalist in the Chambers County Farm/ City Award and the 2003 Governor’s Conser-
vationist of the Year Award by the Alabama Wildlife Federation. Pooker loved Alabama politics and enjoyed getting to know many political leaders within the state over the years. Everyone admired Pooker. He served on the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles under Governor Fob James. Most importantly, Pooker will be remembered as a beloved uncle to his nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. He was a selfless family man and a good father even though he did not have children of his own. He loved being involved in helping his nephews on the farm. He regularly drove his great-nieces and nephews to school and
was engaged in their growing lives. He was always present to talk and dispense wisdom to his non-farming nieces and nephews as well. He was proud of the generations that followed him. Aside from his family, Pooker took great pleasure in mentoring those interested in farming and living the country life. He offered respite for many generations of Auburn University football players to come to his farm to hunt, fish or just relax. He kept watch over his community and was a loyal steward to his land. Pooker is survived by his brother Joe Rawles Robertson (Betty) of Gold Hill, nieces and nephews Daniel Sayre Robertson, Jr. (Sherie) of Auburn, Rebecca
Robertson (Peter Skrdla) of Devon, Pennsylvania, Anna Robertson Bennett (Gabe) of Sautee Nacoochee, Georgia, Joe “Jody” Rawles Robertson, Jr. (Jennifer) of Lafayette, George Isaac Robertson (Bradley) of Gold Hill. 13 great nieces and nephews. Pooker was predeceased by his brother, Daniel Sayre Robertson (Teryl) of Auburn. Pooker enjoyed being a paternal figure in the lives of Race Cannon and Peter Barrios and remained close to them from childhood into adulthood. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to First United Methodist Church of Opelika (702 Avenue A, Opelika, Alabama 36801) Frederick- Dean Funeral Home directed.
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Opelika
amily &
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A13 Oct. 02, 2019
eligion
The triumph of the broken and burdened
B
ut thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession. (2 Corinthians 2:14). This clearly seems to be an allusion to the Roman Triumph. It was the military version of the parades that cities give today for their team when they win the Super Bowl, World Cup or some other important athletic event. When a general won a notable military campaign they were rewarded with a Triumph. They would ride in a chariot surrounded by their soldiers who carried the plunder and prisoners captured in battle. There were priests waving their censers of incense. It was the aroma of life to the Romans and the aroma of death to the prisoners who were on their way to be executed. It’s a picture that works and the Corinthians would have been familiar with it. Yet as obvious as this all appears to be, I think there is a procession that better suits Paul’s purposes for what he wants
to say and how he wants to say it. I think he has in mind God’s triumphal procession in Psalm 68. The psalm celebrates Yahweh’s victory march from Egypt to Sinai to Jerusalem (v. 6-7, 24-25). He is spoken of as “a father to the fatherless, defender of widows” (v. 5). He sets prisoners free (v. 6). All of this reflects the redemptive nature of Paul’s ministry much better than a Roman Triumph would. More to the point, God leading Israel out of Egypt also fits Paul’s personal situation quite well. His travel may have seemed as haphazard as Israel’s to the Corinthians (see 1:12ff), but God was leading him as surely as He led Israel. Even more, by introducing Israel (and Moses), he sets up a comparison between himself and Moses and the Corinthians and Israel. Once Paul has introduced God leading Israel (and Moses) through the wilderness, it’s not difficult to see as McGuiggan suggests, the rebellion of
By Bruce Green Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika
Korah and company in the background as well (Numbers 16). Korah and 250 men accused Moses of lording his authority over them (v. 3)—the same thing the Corinthians had accused Paul of doing (2 Corinthians 1:24). These men were told by Moses to bring censers filled with incense and burning coals the next day to the tent of meeting. They did this and fire came out and consumed them, while their families were swallowed up by the earth. The next day Israel grumbled about what had happened and a plague came upon them until Aaron took his censer, went into the midst of the people and “made atone-
ment for them” (v. 47). Put it all together and you have people who opposed Moses carrying censers with the aroma of death, while that same aroma in Aaron’s censer brought life. Paul is saying that as with Moses, he is led by God to spread the aroma that is life to some and death to others—depending on their response to his message. It’s as powerful as it is subtle. It resonates even more when you consider that Paul is competing with self- proclaimed “superapostles” (2 Corinthians 11:5,13, 12:11). They knew nothing of weakness, meekness or suffering—they were above all of that. They were the first century version of the health, wealth and prosperity gospel. All they claimed to know was one success after another. In other words, they were very much the Roman Triumph rather than being part of the procession led by God that cared for orphans and widows and knew hardship, suffer-
Church calendar
• Pepperell Baptist’s youth program meets on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 7 p.m. This is an evening of prayer, Bible Study and discussion. For more information, contact youth and children’s pastor Ryno Jones if you need more information at 334745-3108. • Oct. 6 - Airview Baptist Church’s
homecoming service will begin at 10:30 a.m., featuring a message from Wayne Henderson and special music. A food fellowship will follow the service. The church is located at 2301 Airport Road. • Oct. 6 - Pepperell Baptist Church is celebrating 93 years of serving the Lord as a church. The church was estab-
ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 2312 Center Drive Unit D #758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta #742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy #749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. #749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. #745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy #749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B #7064421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. #745-6670 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave #742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. #745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd #745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. #745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. #745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. #742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr #749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. #887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika
314 S. 9th St. #745-6143 First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. #745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact 709 Avenue E #741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. #703-3333 Friendship Missionary Baptist 432 Maple Avenue #742-0105 Greater Peace Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave. #749-9487 Heritage Baptist Church 1103 Glenn St. #363-8943 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 Liberty Baptist Church 2701 West Point Pkwy #749-9632 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. #745-2905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 #334-745-3600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy #745-5340 Pepperell Baptist Church 2702 2nd Ave. #745-3108 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd #749-2773 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Rd 166 #745-0807 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. #745-3224 Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd #741-7770 BUDDHIST Buddha Heart Village 3170 Sandhill Rd. #821-7238
ing and weakness. In this light, the Roman Triumph becomes a parody of the true procession of God. All of this speaks to our expectations of how God will lead us. In our lesser moments, we would like him to lead us in a way that works out to . . . well, unending health, wealth and prosperity. In our better moments, we know that’s as inauthentic of a gospel now as it was in the first century. Like Israel and Paul, we are part of God’s triumphal procession through the wilderness. There will be both wonder and hardship, joy and suffering, and probably more than a few things that won’t fit neatly into any category. But there will always also be the presence of God, His power in our weakness and the promise of a future. It is the triumph of the broken and burdened. Bruce has written an entry level book on Revelation called The Thrill of Hope. It is available through Amazon.
lished in 1926 and has been serving the community in teaching God’s word to people and families. The Homecoming service goes from 10:30 a.m. to noon with a fellowship covered dish lunch following. Ken Vickery, a previous pastor at Pepperell Baptist, will be bringing the homecoming message. Gary Morgan,
a previous worship leader at Pepperell Baptist Church, will be leading the homecoming service in praise and worship. The church is located at 2702 Second Ave. in Opelika. The phone number is 334-745-3108. Mike Newman is the pastor of the church. • Oct. 12 - The David Phelps Family
Band will perform at First Baptist Church Opelika beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets range in cost from $25 to $50 and can be purchased online at www.ticketbud. com. The church is located at 301 S. 8th St.
CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. #749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy #742-9721 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St. #745-5181 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. #745-6015 Church of Christ 2660 Cunningham Drive CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd #749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place #7496432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court #745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. #749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. #745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 Opelika, Ala. 36804 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. #826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. #742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A #745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 #745-0460 Pierce Chapel United Methodist
8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922 Family Life Christian Center
601 S. 7th St. #741-7013 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris Ave. #749-1070 Fellowship Bible Church 2202 Hamilton Rd #749-1445 Ferguson Chapel Church 310 S. 4th St. #745-2913 First Assembly of God Church 510 Simmons St. #749-3722 Garden of Gethsemane Fellowship 915 Old Columbus Rd #745-2686 Grace Heritage Church Opelika #559-0846 Holy Deliverance Church 831 S. Railroad #749-5682 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Living Way Ministries 1100 Old Columbus Rd #749-6241 Move of God Fellowship Church 1119 Old Columbus Rd #741-1006 Connect Church 2900 Waverly Pkwy #749-3916 New Life Christian Center 2051 West Point Pkwy #741-7373 New Life Independent Church 10 Meadowview Estates Trailer 741-9001 Opelika’s First Seventh Day 2011 Columbus Pkwy #737-3222 Power of Praise, Inc. Church 3811 Marvyn Pkwy #745-6136 Shady Grove Christian Church West Point Hwy #745-7770
Events can be emailed to the Observer at editor@opelikaobserver.com.
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pelika Observer O
A14 Oct. 02, 2019
Community Calendar: Events around town
• Oct. 1 - 4 p.m. - Ribbon Cutting at Lee County Fair • Oct. 8 - 10 a.m. Ribbon Cutting at City Church • Oct. 9 - 8 a.m. - Connections • Oct. 16 - 7:30 a.m. - Business Over Breakfast
Ongoing: • Village Friends/ Village Values is a nonprofit organization that supports seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older. For info or to schedule a presentation to your group, call 334-2094641. For the website, Google “village friends village values.” • The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR chapter is appealing for sweaters, jackets, trousers, shirts and socks, women’s clothing, soft soap in individual containers, shaving supplies, disposable razors, denture cleanser, toothpaste and toothbrushes, DVDs, games, books and magazines to take to veterans at the CAVHCS in Tuskegee. The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter regularly visits veterans living in assisted living, the homeless domiciliary and psych (trauma) ward in Tuskegee. Donations are tax deductible and will be much appreciated. Pick up is provided. Please call Linda Shabo at 8876659 or at 256-3071449. Mondays: • The Lee County Voters League meets the first Mondays of the month at 6 p.m.
at Bethesda Baptist Church located at 201 S. 4th St. Opelika • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika. • The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School band room. Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike. • The Touched by Suicide Support Group meets the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information, contact Deborah Owen, EAMC’s director of Psychiatric Services at deborahowen@ eamc.org. • The fourth Monday of each month, a community grief support group meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome. For more information, call 8261899 or 502-0216. • T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support group, meets every Monday night from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the
Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika. For more info contact Mary Johnson, 7491584. • The Lee County Commission meets the second and last Mondays of each month at the courthouse beginning at 5 p.m. • The Commercial Horticulture Extension Team organizes webinars to provide quick updates for producers on various topics of interest. Whether you are interested in the proper way to plant fruit trees or have questions in turf management, these webinars cover a wide range of subjects. Webinars are streamed live via Panopto on the last Monday of every month starting in January and ending in November. During the presentation, participants can send questions via email. The webinars also are recorded and stored in the archive on the Beginning Farmer website. Webinar topics include: trap cropping for reducing squash insect pests, cowpea curculio updates, nutsedge control, introduction to potting mixes in ornamental container production, dealing with drought in commercial horticulture
Upcoming Events • Oct. 1 at 5 p,m. Kids eat for 99 cents at Niffers • Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. - Brains and Brews Trivia at Red Clay Brewing • Oct. 1 at 10 p.m.Drinking Across America filming at John Emerald Distilling • Oct. 2 - 12:30 p.m. - The Lee County Master Gardeners will meet at the Harris Center, which is located at 425 Perry St. in Auburn. The public is invited. The speaker is Dr. Bill Deutsch, author of the book ‘Alabama Rivers: A Celebration and Challenge’. His presentation will focus on the rivers that are in the Lee County area. There will be a book signing directly after the meeting. For more informa-
tion, visit LeeMG.org. • Oct. 2 at 5 p.m. Burger Night with halfpounder burgers and a side for $6.99 at Niffers • Oct. 2 at 5 p.m. Wine Down Wednesday at The Bottling Plant Event Center • Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. Trivia Night at Niffers • Oct. 4 - Josh Purgason Live on the Patio at La Cantina at 7 p.m. • Oct. 4 - Kipyn Martin at The Sound Wall at 7 p.m. • Oct. 4 - The Mix Tape at The Corner Bar at 9 p.m. • Oct. 5 - All Aboard’s First Birthday Party at All Aboard at 10 a.m. • Oct. 6 - Gravel Sunday at James Bros. Bikes • Oct 7 at 5 p.m.Dollar Beer Night at Niffers
• Oct. 7 - The Lee County Voters League’s next meeting will be on Oct. 7 at Bethesda Baptist church which is located at 201 S. 4th St. in Opelika. President Bickerstaff will address voter suppression issues and get out the vote efforts. • Oct. 19 - Standing Rock Fish Fry and Bake Sale from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. CST at the Dodgen Home, 3155 County Road 278, in Standing Rock, Alabama. Catfish fillets, coleslaw, hush puppies, french fries. Plates are $10. For tickets call Sharon Dodgen Spriggs at 706-333-8559 or Marie Leak at 706-586-0252. Proceeds benefit Standing Rock Community Club Building Project.
crops and many more. To view the full schedule, please visit www.aces.edu/anr/ beginningfarms/webinars.php. Please send questions during the presentations to Ann Chambliss, thameae@ auburn.edu. For questions regarding the webinar series or for providing suggestions, please email Dr. Ayanava Majumdar at bugdoctor@auburn. edu. Tuesdays: • Ballroom Dance Classes at the Opelika Sportsplex from 7 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info, call Diane at 749-6320. • The East Alabama Old Car Club meets every first Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Monarch Estates Clubhouse, located at 1550 East University Drive, Auburn. A program of interest to the old car enthusiast is presented. Car ownership is not required. • The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. Meetings are preceded by nonvoting work sessions that typically begin between 6 and 6:45 p.m. • Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard. The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6 to 8 p.m. 8685 AL Highway 51. • A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone dealing with the pain
of loss and feeling the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved. The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School. For more information, contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-5189122. • The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. For more information visit www.auburncap.org or find the organization on Facebook. • East Alabama Gem & Mineral Society meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m. Meetings are held at the Covington Rec. Center, located at 213 Carver Ave. in Opelika. Wednesdays: • The second Wednesday of each month, a Community Grief Support Group meets from 10 to 11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 8261899 or 502-0216. • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts Bingo every
Wednesday night at 6 p.m. • Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays: • American Legion Auxiliary Unit 152 meets the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. at Niffer’s Place, 917 S. Railroad Ave. in Opelika. • The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Support Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@yahoo. com or find them on Facebook. • Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes. The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants. Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 334737-5215 or cheri. paradice@gmail.com for more information or luncheon location of the month. • T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends. Call 334-528-1076 for more information. Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.
Standing Rock Fish Fry and Bake Sale slated for Oct. 19 Special to the Opelika Observer
“The Standing Rock Fish Fry and Bake Sale” is set for Oct. 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Dodgen Home, located at 3155 County Road 278 in Standing Rock, Alabama. Fish Plates are $10 and consist of catfish fillets, french fries, hush puppies, coleslaw, lemons, pickles, onions and tartar sauce on the side. This is a kidfriendly event and a great time to see old friends, make new friends, and hear some live music. If you are short on time, no worries. A drive-through pickup line will be set up
so you can get your plate to go and not leave your vehicle. For tickets, call Sharon Dodgen Spriggs at 706-3338559, Marie Leak at 706-586-0252, or see a committee member - Nannette Brooks, Rick, Suzanne and Shannon
Dewberry, Bonnie & Johnny Mac Dodgen, Neal Hudson, Randy Hudson, Benji and Margie Johnson, Fred Johnson, Billy Joe and Beth Pike or George Wilder. Proceeds will benefit the Standing Rock Community Building Project.
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
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Bottling Plant Event Center adds new chef, expands business model By Morgan Bryce Editor
Through the culinary creations of her new, recently hired chef Jimmy Stinson, The Bottling Plant Event Center owner Lisa Ditchkoff is working to expand her venue’s dining choices and overall business model. Stinson, the former owner and operator of The Creole and Seafood Shack in Auburn, joins The Bottling Plant after a two-year stint with Stinky’s Fish Camp on South College Street, which abruptly closed for business recently. He has decades of experience in the food business, working in both fine-dining restaurants and chain fast-food establishments. Ditchkoff said she has long been a personal friend as well as fan of Stinson’s cooking, which is mostly based in the Cajun and Creole cuisines. “His food by far is the best Creole food I’ve had anywhere around here. Jimmy and I had been plan-
ning for him to train me on his creole-style cooking, but hiring him as our chef is even better,” Ditchkoff said. During the last year and a half, Ditchkoff said she has had an increased role cooking in the kitchen, helping prepare food for major events to maintain a consistent level of quality expected among her clientele. With Stinson on board, she will continue to help in the kitchen but will be able to focus on other aspects involved with the daily operation of her business. “I spend so much time doing all of the food ordering and picking up orders from the farmer’s markets he is going to alleviate that. He’s excited ... he’s done a lot of off-site catering and he knows his proportions better (than I do),” Ditchkoff said. Stinson’s presence will also help expand Ditchkoff’s new venture into off-site catering for special events and functions. Together, they have been
working to revamp and expand existing menus and fully cobble together this new part of the business. “We’ve had a number of requests to do off-site catering, and all of this just kind of happened without me planning to do it,” Ditchkoff said. “My bank was meeting with their board for about nine to 10 months, and I kept pushing different types of food on them to try, food that they never would’ve ordered like baby-back ribs or pulled chicken. The president kept asking for to-go boxes every time and board members were telling me it was the best food they ever had ... something that really set all this into motion.” Those interested in having The Bottling Plant cater are asked to call and place their orders at least one week in advance. The public can sample some of Stinson’s cooking at a “Taste of N’awlins” on Oct. 10 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at The Bottling Plant Event Center. Tickets
will cost $20 each, which includes tax and gratuity. Menu items will include collard green egg rolls, corn casserole, crawfish etouffee, gumbo and Stinson’s beloved red beans and rice. DJ Big Sexy from Alexander City will provide the music that evening. When asked about his new role, Stinson said he is excited for the opportunity to place his signature stamp on the venue’s dining options and expose people to the beauty and spice of Cajun and Creole cooking. “Something I’ve learned a lot in life is that it’s not about me, it’s about who you help along the way. I’m looking forward to a lot of these new ventures, including catering and revitalized menus,” Stinson said. “If we can keep that going, this place will bloom.” For more information about the venue, call 334705-5466 or visit www. bottlingplanteventcenter. com. The venue is located at 614 N. Railroad Ave. in downtown Opelika.
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Steve Murray speaks at recent March of Dimes representatives Opelika Kiwanis Club meeting visit Auburn Kiwanis Club
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Steve Murray with the Alabama Department of Archives and History spoke to the Kiwanis Club of Opelika about their history, their facility in Montgomery, as well as things that are going on around the state for Alabama's Bicentennial celebration. For information about the bicentennial, visit alabama200.org. For more information about Kiwanis’s initiatives, visit opelikakiwanis.org. Pictured are John Rice, Steve Murray and Bob Harris.
Opelika Lions Club donates $1,000 to Way2Serve Ministries to assist with home recovery, repairs in Beauregard
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Shane Kyles, center, “Way 2 Serve” ministries founder and creative director, was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club. The group has been involved in helping rebuild and repair Beauregard homes damaged or destroyed in the March 3rd tornado. The Opelika Lions partnered with some out-ofstate Lions clubs to present the group with a check for $1,000 to help with their projects. Lion President Glenn Stokes, left, presented the check after an introduction by Lion Gayron Davis, right.
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Pictured from left to right are Kiwanis Club of Auburn President Golden Jenkins, Director Brittany Cedergren and Program Coordinator Linda Gross. Cedergren spoke to members on maternal child health on behalf of of the March of Dimes.
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COMICS
“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.” ― Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
Opelika Schools & Sports Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports
School Board Meetings • Oct. 8 at 6 p.m. Lee County Board of Education Meeting at 2410 Society Hill Road • Oct. 22 at 4 p.m. Opelika City Schools Board of Education Meeting at 300 Simmons St.
OHTS presents ANNIE
On the Mark By D. Mark Mitchell
Opelika Middle, High schools hosted annual meet Saturday
T
he Opelika Middle and High school cross country teams hosted the annual “Opelika Invitational” last Saturday at the SportsPlex. A total of 16 schools participated in the meet, including middle school mixed, and the boys and girls varsity teams. Central High won the girls meet with an average time of 22:33.47, followed by Auburn, Beauregard, Dothan and Booker T. Washington. Opelika’s Breckin Gould continues to lead the Lady Bulldog
runners, finishing second with a time of 20:36.46. Phaola Torres placed sixth and Jhenny Hoover finished 26th. The boys meet was dominated by Auburn High, which placed five runners in the top- 11. Central, Stanhope Elmore, Smiths Station and Opelika rounded out the top-5. The Opelika boys were led by Chas Baker, who finished seventh (18:08.31), Michael Hart (21st), Winston Tufts (41st) Evan Goodman (53rd), Kadri Gates See Sports, page B5
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Turn to B2 for more photos of the Opelika High School Theatre Society’s fall production of Annie, which was three shows left on Oct. 3, 5 and 6.
Montgomery Catholic defeats Beauregard 41-12, Hornets now 0-6 By Morgan Bryce Editor Montgomery Catholic handed Beauregard its sixth loss of the season Friday night, handily defeating the Hornets 41-12. Both teams played an even first half,
Smiths Station drops 20-17 heartbreaker to Stanhope Elmore last Friday night By Morgan Bryce Editor Smiths Station's road trip to Stanhope Elmore ended in a heartbreaking fashion Friday night, allowing the Mustangs to score 17 unanswered points and win on a 27-
yard field goal as time expired. The Panthers led 17-3 at halftime, with the two touchdowns coming from a 58-yard scoopand-score by senior linebacker Zane Faulk and one-yard sneak for a score by junior quarter-
back Corey Minton. Halftime would not only mark the end of the first half but also the end of Smiths Station's scoring for the night. Stanhope Elmore didn't panic when they took the opening second-half See Smiths, page B5
with Beauregard trailing 20-12 at halftime. However, a myriad of missed opportunities and penalties saw the Hornets be outscored 21-0 in the second half by the undefeated Knights squad. With the loss, the Hornets fall to 0-6
overall this season, joining the school's 1989 team for the last previous 0-6 start. Beauregard will host Harris County this Friday at Hornet Stadium. The Tigers are fresh off a 62-42 road victory over Northside High School of Columbus.
The teams have met four previous times and currently share a tie in the series. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. C.S.T. Hornet Stadium is directly behind Beauregard High School, which is located at 7343 Alabama Highway 51.
Sani-Freeze Dairy Bar honored last week in Auburn Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer The Sani-Freeze was honored with a Historic Marker in downtown Auburn on the corner of Glenn and South College last week by the Auburn Heritage Foundation. O Town trademarked the Sani-Freeze name with the permission of the Hunt family, Sani-Freeze’s original owners, several years ago. O Town owners Chris and Angela George said they value and appreciate the Hunts’s friendship and for allowing them to carry on the name and use it for special events.
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Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Beauregard Player of the Week
Junior offensive and defensive lineman Ethan Smith was selected as the Beauregard Player of the Week. He played the majority of snaps on both sides of the ball during Friday’s 41-12 road loss to Montgomery Catholic. Senior linebacker Zane Faulk was selected as the Smiths Station Player of the Week. In Friday’s 20-17 loss at Stanhope Elmore, he returned a fumble for a touchdown.
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Teaching and making an eternal difference
Beth Pinyerd
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ou will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out. - Deuteronomy 28:6 I know we can all remember and know those special teachers who made an eternal difference in our lives for the better. Their classrooms always welcomed their students as a “home of academic, social and emotional learning.” They always remembered our names and they took time to genuinely make a difference in our lives.
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Whether early childhood, elementary, middle school or high school, these teachers have a mission of believing the best, hoping for the best and encouraging their students. In order to do this, teachers have the goal of being knowledgeable and up-todate on the subjects they are teaching. We remember those teachers who captured our attention in topics they knew so well. They are humble and real as they put their students first. As students, we wanted to
participate. Our community is so blessed to have outstanding educators who are passionate about teaching and love to work with students! Classroom Observer has reflected upon qualities of educators who touched my life and for those educators who continue to touch lives. Patience is truly a quality of an educator who loves to teach. Students have different learning styles and ways of learning whether it be visual, auditory, physical or reflective. The pace of learning also has to be assessed because each student is different. Happiness, joy and a good personality make learning attractive to students. Teachers are called to do more than just teach academics - they are called to make a genuine impact on the lives of their students as they grow in character, wisdom and persistence.
Flexibility is a necessary ingredient in teaching. As educators, we prompt and require students to learn. Students will ask different questions which teachers must address. Because classrooms are made up of many different personalities, a variety of situations may arise which teachers have to address. Creative ideas and spontaneity support different learning needs. Passion for teaching requires multi-tasking and energy, more than any profession I know. A teacher is meeting the ongoing learning needs of people. Teachers have to accomplish so much in a day in covering lessons, curriculum and students’ needs. The organization of teaching aids, materials and forms is a focus quality in meeting the learning needs of students. In the busyness of the classroom, a teacher has to be a
good listener and communicator. This is truly an “art” which requires patience and flexibility. Classroom policies have to be set in place for learning to be an ongoing process. Teaching is truly a challenge! But the love, hugs, tears and joy of students and each classroom day make it all worth it. I would like to dedicate this article to the happy memory of my husband, Carl Pinyerd, who loved to share knowledge no matter how busy he was as a scientist. He took time with many of his students to develop science fair projects, which won several students scholarships to college from Swaziland, Africa and in Alabama. Like so many teachers, he made an eternal legacy by spending time with junior high and high school students which spells LOVE. Pinyerd has taught young children in the early childhood class-
room for 34 years, as well as outreaching to the elderly in intergenerational settings. She has taught and outreached in the schools in Opelika and Baldwin County. She holds a master’s degree in early childhood education as well as a bachelor’s degree in family and child development both from Auburn University. Her husband is the late Carl Pinyerd, and she has one son, Gus Pinyerd, who has taught her so much about learning. Classroom Observer is here to serve the community in sharing the wonderful teaching programs in our local public schools, private schools and homeschools. The column is provided to enrich the education of our children, youth and families. Classroom Observer welcomes educational news, school news, pictures and events by e-mailing her at donnapinyerd@charter. net.
Art education in Smiths Station Schools
’m sitting in a board room discussing the needs of students at elementary schools in our local community. The host of our meeting turns to me to say, “by the way, this endeavor is historic, as nothing like this has ever been made available for our students in this particular area.” I take a deep breath. For a moment, I’m sentimental. I gather my composure as I know there is a great work that must be done. In the days to follow I would be anxious, excited and deeply concerned in our efforts to make these opportunities the very best for elementary students in the Smiths Station area. At the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, a center for cultural arts history, we have endeavored to find ways to make culturally enriching educational opportunities accessible to students at their schools. Understanding the importance of exposure to the arts during childhood development has long been a cause close to our hearts, and with an art center deeply rooted in the core of our community, enabled us to take this pursuit seriously. Since spring 2019, the gallery has worked closely in collaboration with local educators and state government leaders to develop ways to make cultural and fine arts education consistently available to area school students. This fall, the gallery will debut the ART IN
By Sarah West SCHOOLS programs, the first of which has been made possible through the office of Alabama State Rep. Debbie Wood. In recognition of the value and importance of arts in education, Wood presented West Smiths Station Elementary School with a grant funding ART IN
SCHOOLS | Seasonal Art Classes for Pre-K to 5th Grade. Upon a presentation made by the representative for District 38, this program debuted for more than 700 students and faculty at WSSES on Sept. 23rd and 24th. Each season, students of WSSES will receive continued fine art education through classes hosted at their school. In the coming weeks, additional news regarding arts in education will follow. Sarah West serves the Opelika Observer as a contributing columnist, with written works of Cultural Arts relevance and prose. She is a preserva-
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tion and conservation advocate, activist and visual artist of American Illustration with a focus on regional narrative painting. She is the founder of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A Center for Cultural Arts, Smiths Station’s premier fine arts destination. She is the appointed official artist to the city of Smiths Station, a Lee County syndi-
cated columnist and the director of her art center’s Cultural Arts Outreach Initiative, which partners with local schools to make the arts accessible to all. She also serves a chief curator to the City of Smiths Station, City Hall Art Galleries. She is a founding member of the Smiths Station Historic Commission. She is a member of the Women’s Philanthropy
Board- Cary Center, Auburn University College of Human Science. She is an elected member of the Society of Illustrators- NYC. She mentors art students of every age through weekly classes at her studio located in the heart of Smiths Station, Alabama. To learn more about her work and activism, visit www.thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com.
YOUR DESTINATION for CONTINUED FINE ARTS EDUCATION STUDIO CLASSES | DRAWING, PAINTING & MORE for ALL AGES www.thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com
Character Word of the Month Responsibility • n. The quality or state of being responsible
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Opelika cross country team hosts annual ‘Opelika Invitational’ last Saturday at Opelika Sportsplex
Photos special to the Opelika Observer
Auburn University students score $123,500 in Farmers Federation scholarships Special to the Opelika Observer By Marlee Moore The Alabama Farmers Federation invested in the future of the state’s No. 1 industry by awarding 80 Auburn University (AU) students from 55 counties with $123,500 in scholarships. Students, who are pursuing degrees in agriculture, forestry or related programs, were recognized during a scholarship reception Sept. 23 at Ham Wilson Livestock Arena. “It’s a pleasure of our organization to give back to you,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell, an Auburn agricultural economics graduate, as he addressed the recipients. “Auburn was an integral part of forming the Alabama Farmers Federation in 1921, and we’re committed to investing in Auburn students. We’re working to provide for the
next generation of leaders, who will make a huge difference for Alabama and agriculture.” The Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation contributed $1,250 for each county federation providing $500. Fifty-five students received the $1,750 scholarships. Some counties fully fund additional scholarships. They are Baldwin, Chilton, Covington, Dale, Henry, Houston, Jefferson, Lee and Madison counties. The R.W. Donaldson Endowed Scholarship, named after a longtime Cullman County Farmers Federation member and cattleman, was also awarded to Rusty Yancy. Cherokee County Farmers Federation President John Bert East told students he appreciated their interest in agriculture, a $70 billion industry in Alabama. “It makes us proud that we can help you financial-
ly and see you mature and be successful,” East said, who is a cattle and row crop farmer from Centre. “This is an investment in Alfa’s future and your future.” Recipients included Greene County’s Cal Logan. The senior from Eutaw thanked the county and state organizations for support — through scholarships and relationshipbuilding. “It’s a great honor to be awarded this scholarship and represent the Farmers Federation,” Logan said. “Being a part of the Alfa Farmers community has allowed me to meet great people and be a part of great things, in addition to easing the financial burden of my education.” As the parents of scholarship recipient Noah Runyan, Russ and Linda Runyan shared their thanks for Auburn, the Farmers Federation and scholastic efforts from
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Auburn University students Jack Slay, James Dowdell, Julia Lawrence, Sedrick Mack and Walker Davidson of Lee County each received $1,750 scholarships from the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation and Lee County Farmers Federation. They were recognized at the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Scholarship Reception at the Ham Wilson Livestock Arena in Auburn on Sept. 23. Slay of Opelika is a senior in crop and soil science, while Mack of Smiths Station is also a senior in crop and soil science. Dowdell, Lawrence and Davidson are all of Auburn. Dowdell is a senior in agricultural business and economics, Lawrence is a sophomore in poultry science and Davidson is a junior in agricultural business and economics. From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Slay, Dowdell, Mack, Davidson, Lee County Farmers Federation President Jamie Lazenby, Federation District 7 Director Joe Lambrecht and Federation Southeast Area Vice President George Jeffcoat. Not pictured is recipient Lawrence.
their three children. “We’re proud, thankful, grateful and blessed – not just financially but because our children have the desire to apply
NOW OPEN
for honors like this and achieve their dreams,” Linda said. Russ echoed his wife’s sentiment. “I thank the county
chapters and state level for paying it forward, investing in young men and women who will be in our field for years to come,” he said.
Indoor shooting range is open to the public
2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA
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The Oaks School’s middle school team earns second victory of the season Thursday night Special to the Opelika Observer Middle School The Oaks Middle School team improved to 2-3 overall after defeating Ezekiel Academy 8-6. Quarterback J.D. Dallas completed 1-of-3 passes, including a successful twopoint conversion. On the ground was where the Oaks found success. Jayden McKee ran five times for 39 yards and the Oaks' only score. Dallas also had a big night on the ground, finishing with 49
Sports, from B1 (55th), Benjamin Estes (60th), Jake Walters (62nd), Zalen Shaw (64th), Trey White (67th), Jack O’Quinn (75th), Walker Norrell (97th) and Landon Grace (98th). The middle school teams competed together in the last of the three races. Connor Mullins finished seventh to lead Opelika Middle School. Peyton Weston was a close eighth, Sam Kemp (15th) Aiden Stephens (26th) Amari Bynum placed (31th), Ben Bell (35th), Zane Sexton (37th) Mason McCullough (48th) and Cooper Phurrough (51st). Leslie Duran finished third to lead the Opelika Middle School Lady Bulldogs. Jullicia Beard (12th), Carlie Moates (15th), Mary Evans Cooper (16th), Su-
Smiths, from B1 kickoff. A wellbalanced offense marched down the field and ended with a one-yard sneak for a score by Mustangs quarterback Andrew Rines. The Mustangs would tack on another score later in the quarter to
yards on six carries. Defensively, middle linebacker Noah Childree led with seven tackles, a sack and a quarterback hurry. Defensive end Jagger Scott finished with four tackles, two sacks and two hurries, middle linebacker Carter Scott notched four tackles and defensive end Landon Childree contributed four tackles. The Oaks will face off against Central Christian in Sharpsburg, Georgia on Oct. 3. Varsity Coach Alvin McCormick
and his Oaks team lost at Rock Springs Academy 42-8 Friday night. Jaxxon Scott threw completing 6-of-12 passes for 87 yards and two interceptions. His favorite target was Ryan Decker, who turned short passes into big gains. Decker had two catches for 50 yards. Some big plays were called back due to penalties at critical points during the first half. On the ground, Lane Starling racked up 18 tough yards on four carries. Scott scored The Oaks' only
touchdown, carrying the ball 18 times for 74 yards during the game. Defensively, Scott had nine tackles, two sacks and a blocked punt. Starling added eight tackles and Silas Frick had seven tackles. Daniel Adams had an interception late in the game that sparked The Oaks' only score. Decker found some special team's success, finishing with 84 yards on five kickoff returns. The Oaks, now 3-3 overall, will face New Life in Millbrook, Georgia next week.
san Gaston (18th), Violett Alcorn (20th), Heidi Perealta (26th), Anita Duncan (30th), Kiley Brooks (31st), Jada Frazier (36th) Jasmine Jordan (40th), Ellie Kendrick (42nd), Kaitlyn Brown (44th), Allyson Cole (49th) and Chyanne Eufracio (50th). The Opelika Invitational helps fund the cross country teams at the middle and high schools. The teams are preparing for the sectional meet and state in October. OHS FOOTBALL Opelika (4-1 overall, 2-0 in region play) will host region foe Benjamin Russell Friday night at Bulldog Stadium in the annual “Pink Out.” The Wildcats, 3-3 overall and 0-2 in region play, beat Chilton County 55-7 last Friday. Benjamin Russell beat Beauregard 31-0 and Demopolis 17-8 while losing to Central Clay County 38-14, Stanhope Elmore 12-7 and
Selma 28-0. This is the 74th meeting between the Opelika and Benjamin Russell, with the Wildcats holding a slim 37-33-3 edge in the series. Selma is the only common opponent thus far, with both teams shutting out the Saints. Opelika and Stanhope Elmore are tied for the region lead with 2-0 records. A win by the Bulldogs moves them one step closer to locking down the region championship. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Bulldog Stadium. Tickets are on sell at Bubba’s Medicine Shop and Victory Design. The game is a “PINK OUT” in honor of those with breast cancer. Opelika’s final three region teams, Benjamin Russell (33), Stanhope Elmore (5-1) and Calera (14), have not played a schedule as tough as the Bulldogs have played. The topheavy schedule will
help Opelika down the stretch. The playoff picture will clear up during the next four weeks. it is important Opelika stay away from having to travel to Mobile. It appears that Saraland is the one of the best teams in class 6A down south. Opelika has a few more “W’s” to record before worrying Saraland or the playoffs. VOLLEYBALL The Opelika volleyball team has won seven of the last nine matches, including wins over Central, Smiths Station and Handley. The girls improved to 8-6 and will host Beauregard on Wednesday (1-2) at 4:30 p.m. FRESHMAN TEAM The Central High School (Phenix City) freshman football team defeated the Opelika High School freshman team 22-15 on Wayne Trawick Field at GarrettHarrison Stadium on Monday night.
tie the game 17-17. Late in the fourth quarter, Smiths Station kicker Taylor Walker pulled a 41yard field-goal attempt that would have given his team the lead. Stanhope Elmore's senior running back Tra Duncan put the team on his shoulders, helping sustain a drive deep into Panther territory to set up their game-winning field
goal attempt. Mustangs senior kicker Dylan Presciti, a member of the school's soccer team, booted a 27-yard field goal through the middle of the uprights to clinch the victory, sending Smiths Station packing with their fourth-consecutive loss. Smiths Station falls to 2-4 overall, 0-3 in region play. The
Panthers will travel to Montgomery's Cramton Bowl on Thursday night to face the Jefferson Davis Volunteers, who are 1-4 overall and are coming off a 17-13 victory over Sidney Lanier. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. E.S.T. Panther Stadium is behind Smiths Station Baptiast Church, which is located at 2460 Lee Road 430.
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Both teams scored first-half touchdowns, however, Central led 8-7 at halftime after converting a 2-point play instead of going for the PAT. The Freshman Red Devils added a TD in the third quarter but missed the two-point conversation, leading 14-7. Opelika’s Tremael Almacen scores a TD with four minutes left in the game. The Bulldogs took a 1514 lead after George Meyers caught a pass from Bryce Speakman on the two-point conversion. Central answered with a TD to win 2215. Opelika returns home next Monday for a 5:30 p.m. start against Wetumpka at Bulldog Stadium. PRAYER PRIOR TO OPELIKA GAMES
Opelika’s game against Benjamin Russell Friday night will be the second game at Bulldog Stadium since Opelika City Schools announced that pregame prayer over the public address system is not allowed. Members of the OHS student body prayed at the last home game during the moment of silence. I commend the students who exercised their “RIGHT” to pray! Friday night, I urge all in attendance to be quiet during the moment of silence! Listen during the moment of silence, you will hear prayer. D. Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys State Director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council.
1 OUT OF 10 ELDERLY PERSONS AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES ARE BEING: Abused, Neglected or Exploited If you suspect this is happening to someone you know, please report it to Adult Protective Services by contacting your local DHR office or calling the
ADULT ABUSE HOTLINE at 1-800-458-7214
HELP STOP THE ABUSE
IF YOU SEE IT, REPORT IT
Adolescent students not up-to-date on required and ACIP recommended vaccine may be offered those during a school-based vaccine clinic or by a pharmacist
Thereʼs no excuse for For more information on current vaccine recommendations and scheduling, please scan the QR code for the Back to School flyer or visit www.alabamapublichealth.gov/immunization.
ELDER ABUSE
“This project was supported by Subgrant #16-VA-VS-076 awarded by the Law Enforcement / Traffic Safety Division of ADECA and the U.S. Department of Justice.” The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or grant-making component.”
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Opelika volleyball teams beat Smiths Station last Wednesday
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
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OLLI to host Sloss Furnace’s Education Coordinator Ty Malugani on Oct. 9 Special to the Opelika Observer Ty Malugani, education coordinator for Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, will present “The Role of Convict Labor in Birmingham Industry” at OLLI’s Oct. 9 Alabama Bicentennial Brown Bag Lunch and Lecture Series. The story of Alabama’s convict lease system, in effect from 1866 to 1928, is an
infamous chapter in the state’s history. Installed as a new form of slavery, convict labor serves as the perfect example of Southern entrepreneurs attempting to create a New South economy while holding on to the Old South’s ideas on race and labor relations. The role of convict labor in Birmingham helped build Birmingham’s fledgling industrial economy and shows that forced
labor in the South did not actually end in 1865. Malugani has served as the Education Coordinator at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark for two and a half years. Malugani has both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Auburn University (OLLI at Auburn)
hosts its Alabama Bicentennial Brown Bag Lunch and Lecture Series from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts and Humanities, also known as Pebble Hill, which is located at 101 S. Debardeleben St. in Auburn. Lunch begins at 11:45 a.m. and participants shoud bring their own meal. Coffee, tea and water will be provided. The
program begins at 12:15 p.m. The series is made possible by a grant from the Alabama Bicentennial Commission and is cosponsored by the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts and Humanities. The program is open to the public at no charge. OLLI at Auburn is a program of the Office of the Vice President for University Outreach at Auburn University. OLLI’s
administrative offices and select classes are located at the historic Sunny Slope property located at 1031 S. College St. For more information regarding this event or to learn about becoming a volunteer faculty member, volunteer service assistant or sponsor, call Shawnee McKee, OLLI Administrative Support, at 334-8443146 email at olli@ auburn.edu or visit www.olliatauburn.org.
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Lee-Scott Academy defeats Pike Liberal Arts 52-21 in homecoming contest Friday
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Lee-Scott Academy defeated Pike Liberal Arts 52-21 last Friday for homecoming, moving to 3-3 overall, 1-0 in region play. Senior Olivia Zellner, accompanied by her father, was crowned homecoming queen.
Auburn smashes Mississippi State 56-23 on Saturday; moves to 5-0 overall, 2-0 in the SEC By Jeff Shearer AuburnTigers.com A touchdown on the Tigers’ first offensive play set the tone Saturday in No. 7 Auburn’s 56-23 dismantling of Mississippi State last Saturday at sold-out Jordan-Hare Stadium. “Our fans were electric, really got in the game, helped us,” said Auburn coach Gus Malzahn. “Our special teams and our defense gave the
offense some short fields and they capitalized with some touchdowns and really gave us some momentum.” Bo Nix completed 16-of-21 passes for 335 yards and two touchdowns, adding 56 rushing yards and a TD. His performance earned him recognition as a Manning Award Star of the Week. “I’m really proud of our team,” Malzahn added. “We had a big emotional win last week
on the road and it would have been really easy to let up. It would have been real easy to maybe look forward to the next game, and our guys didn’t do that and they played their best football game as a team to date tonight. Really good team win.” Auburn will seek to improve to 3-0 in the SEC when the Tigers play at Florida next Saturday at 2:30 p.m. in a battle of unbeatens.
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
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Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama to offer more than $3.2 million in scholarships to VCOM during next six years Special to the Opelika Observer Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama (Blue Cross) is proud to announce an important initiative to further expand access to primary care physicians and improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare for their members and Alabamians. According to the Alabama Rural Health Association, 54 of Alabama’s 56 rural counties are entirely or partially classified as primary care shortage areas. There are 4.1 primary care physicians per 10,000 population in Alabama’s rural counties compared to 7.9 for urban residents. Thousands of Alabamians lack access to primary care doctors. In addition,
these 54 rural counties are also classified as mental healthcare shortage areas. To help meet this need, Blue Cross is investing in the future of its Primary Care Physician Network by making available $3.2 million in scholarships during a six-year period to the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM). The scholarship opportunity is for medical students agreeing to practice as primary care or behavioral health physicians in an underserved area of Alabama. “Providing Alabamians access to high quality healthcare continues to be one of our top priorities,” said Tim Vines, president and CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.
“Having access to primary healthcare results in lower healthcare spending and improved health outcomes. Partnering with VCOM further validates our longterm commitment to providing Alabamians access to the healthcare they need and deserve,” Vines said. “We are so excited about the investment that Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has made in future physicians to care for rural and medically underserved populations in the state,” said VCOM-Auburn Campus Dean. “The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Scholars Program will produce 42 new physicians to serve in Alabama over the next six years.”
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“These future physicians will serve to improve the quality of life and improve health outcomes in so many families across Alabama,” Palmarozzi added. “Access to highquality health care is very important,” said VCOM President and Provost Dixie TookeRawlins. “Partnering with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama will help the college to provide primary care services to more people living in medically underserved areas of the state. I am most grateful to Blue Cross for its foresight of and understanding about the importance of encouraging students to return to practice medicine in medically and underserved areas of the state. To
meet our mission, we recruit students from, and train students in, rural and medically underserved areas with the intent that they will return to these areas when they complete their medical residency. This generous commitment by Blue Cross will greatly enrich VCOM’s scholarship program, decrease student debt and enable many of our students to fulfill the college’s mission of returning our graduates to rural and medically underserved areas in Alabama.” Blue Cross remains dedicated to working with providers by setting a new standard of support and collaboration with the physician community. This collaboration is beneficial
for our members and Alabamians allowing them more convenient access to quality healthcare in their communities. Blue Cross remains focused on ensuring their members continue to have access to quality, affordable healthcare. About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has insured Alabamians for more than 83 years. Blue Cross offers coverage plans to corporations, individuals and the senior market. For more information about Blue Cross, visit AlabamaBlue. com. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
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SU Foundation readies for ‘A Grave Affair’ Special to the Opelika Observer The cast of characters is set, and the aura of mystery thickens, as people prepare to gather for “A Grave Affair” on Southern Union State Community College’s Wadley campus on Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. The annual fundraiser for the Southern Union Scholarship Fund takes a new twist this year as the evening features a murder mystery in the midst of food, fun and entertainment by the SU Music Department and the Atlanta-based band Velvet Caviar. The mystery’s plot centers on the death of multi-billionaire tycoon Alfred Butterworth, who died from an apparent murder. Although his murder was never solved, it was determined that his estate needed to be
settled. Butterworth left specific instructions that the reading of his will should be a huge gala. Eight of his closest friends and family were the only ones mentioned in his will. And only one of those will inherit his entire estate. With a multi-billion dollar estate at stake, there are sure to be rifts between the possible heirs, so guests will need to be on the lookout for potential excitement at the gala! The cast includes Ann Marie Nix, Alison Osborn, Jean Sims, Tiffany Moore, Jerry Hall, Tim Altork, Trey Rayfield and Greg Dendinger. Community members are invited to purchase tickets to the event at which they will interact with the cast throughout the evening, picking up clues about the various relationships. Then at
the end of the evening, guests will have the chance to submit their guesses for who the murderer is. All proceeds benefit the Southern Union Foundation, specifically to provide dual-enrollment scholarships for high school students in the college’s service area. “The community’s support of this event opens the door to a Southern Union education for many area students,” said Shondae Brown, director of public relations at SUSCC. “Those who attend will be making a difference for our students while having a lot of fun!” Tickets to the event are $60 and can be purchased from cast members or the Foundation Office. Tickets are also available online at www.event-
brite by searching for “A Grave Affair.” For
more information or sponsorship opportu-
nities, call 256-3952211, ext. 5145.
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PUBLIC NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA DOMESTIC RELATIONS DIVISION IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF AMBER LESTER, Plaintiff, vs. JOHN LESTER, Defendant. CASE NO.: DR-2010-39.07 To: John Lester IN THE FAMILY COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA; FAMILY DIVISION DR-2010-39.07 IN RE: AMBER MANDERSON a/k/a AMBER LESTER NOTICE OF PETITION FILED AND SERVICE BY PUBLICATION Notice to: John Lester JOHN LESTER must answer the Petition for Rule Nisi in the Family Court of Lee County, Alabama, on May 10, 2019, by the Honorable Zachary D. Alsobrook for the Petitioner Amber Manderson within fourteen (14) days from the last date of Publication of this notice or a final judgment may be rendered in Case Number DR-201039.07 in the Family Court of Lee County, Alabama. Answer must be filed at: Lee County Justice Center, 2311 Gateway Drive, Opelika, Alabama 36801. ATTORNEY: Honorable Zachary D. Alsobrook 114 North 9th Street Opelika, AL 36801 (334)737-3718 Legal Run 09/18/19, 09/25/19, 10/02/19 & 10/09/19
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING OPELIKA CITY COUNCIL October 16, 2019 7:00 P.M. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN in accordance with §23-4-2, Code of Alabama, 1975, that the City Council of the City of Opelika will conduct a Public Hearing during the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on Tuesday, October 15, 2019, beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Opelika City Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 204 S. 7th Street, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama, to receive the benefit of public input concerning a proposal to vacate a portion of the northerly right-ofway of Waverly Parkway. All persons interested in the proposed vacation are invited to appear at the public hearing and express their views. Written statements or objections may be submitted to the City Clerk prior to the time of the hearing. The portion of the right-ofway of Waverly Parkway proposed to be vacated is more particularly described as follows: A parcel of land lying in Section 9, Township 19 North, Range 26 East, Lee County, Alabama, and being more particularly described as follows: Commencing at the intersection of the East and the Northerly right-of-way of Waverly Parkway following a curve concave to the North having a radius of 7655.26 (chord bears South 83°39’22” West 86.88 feet);
thence Southwesterly along said curve an arc distance of 86.88 feet to a found ½ inch rebar with cap (WALKER) and the POINT OF BEGINNING of parcel herein described; thence continuing along said right-of-way the following courses: South 83°18’35” West 119.46 feet to the beginning of a curve concave to the Southeast having a radius of 1536.40 feet (chord bears South 73°45’09” West 430.96 feet); thence Southwesterly along said curve an arc distance of 432.39’ to a point; thence leaving said rightof-way North 24°18’35” West 185.64 feet to a point located in the centerline of Pepperell Branch; thence leaving said centerline following a curve concave to the North having a radius of 791.35 feet (chord bears South 86°09’10” East 284.56 feet); thence Easterly along said curve an arc distance of 286.12 feet to a point; thence North 83°54’22” East 321.43 feet to a found ½ inch rebar with cap (WALKER); thence South 06°04’17” East 50.00 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING. Containing 1.061 acres, more or less. Being further described according to and as shown by that certain survey or drawing prepared by Seth R. Walker, Registered Surveyor, attached hereto and marked Exhibit “A”. A copy of the Petition to Vacate and the proposed resolution approving the vacation will be available upon request at the office of the City Clerk, 2nd Floor of City Hall, 204 South 7th Street, Opelika, Alabama. Please contact Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-2083 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability. DATED this the 18th day of September, 2019. /s/ R. G. Shuman ROBERT G. SHUMAN, CITY CLERK Legal Run 09/18/19, 09/25/19, 10/02/19 & 10/09/19
PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA TO: KHALIL CRAWFORD AND ANY UNKNOWN FATHERS OF K.G.M. Address Unknown Please take notice that a Petition for Adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by Jacob and Lauren Allen on August 19, 2019 for the Adoption of K.G.M. born on November 24, 2016 being a minor child and being born to Clela McNaughton. A hearing has been set for the 19 th day of November, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. o’clock central time in the Probate Court, Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika. Alabama. Should you intend to contest this adoption, you must file a written response within thirty (30) days of the date of the last publication herein, with the Clerk of said Probate Court, or appear on the date of the hear-
ing as set above to contest said Petition. Done this 30th day August, 2019. /s/Bill English Probate Judge Legal Notice run 09/18/19, 09/25/19, 10/02/19 & 10/09/19
PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA TO: CLELA MCNAUGHTON Address Unknown Please take notice that a Petition for Adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by Jacob and Lauren Allen on August 19, 2019 for the Adoption of K.G.M. born on November 24, 2016 being a minor child and being born to Clela McNaughton. A hearing has been set for the 19 th day of November, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. o’c lock central time in the Probate Court, Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika. Alabama. Should you intend to contest this adoption, you must file a written response within thirty (30) days of the date of the last publication herein, with the Clerk of said Probate Court, or appear on the date of the hearing as set above to contest said Petition. Done this 30th day August, 2019. /s/Bill English Probate Judge Legal Notice run 09/18/19, 09/25/19, 10/02/19 & 10/09/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The estate of LARRY MICHAEL LANGLEY, Deceased , Case No. 2019-B-119 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Stacy Langley, Personal Representative, on the 21st day of Aug., 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Probate Judge of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. /s/ Brandy C. Easlick Brandy C. Easlick Attorney for the Estate 4307 20 th Avenue Valley, Alabama 36854 Legal Notice run 09/18/19, 09/25/19 & 10/02/19
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LOIS W. STEWART, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 11th day of September, 2019, 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
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estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. JOHN MICHAEL STEWART Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Notice run 09/18/19, 09/25/19 & 10/02/19
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL WAYNE HOLMES, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 13th day of September, 2019, 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. JAMES BRUCE HOLMES, Administrator N. Riley Murphy Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Notice run 09/18/19, 09/25/19 & 10/02/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF: THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM S. BEARD, deceased. Case No.: 2018C-117 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to John Beard on the 16th day of September, 2019 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. JOHN BEARD Legal Notice run 09/18/19, 09/25/19 & 10/02/19
Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Extra Space Storage 1412 Opelika Road. Auburn AL, 36830 on 10/14/2019 at 2:00 p.m. King Hutchinson Jr Unit# B21 5020 US HW 29S Auburn,AL,36830 Boxes, totes, small appliances Carol Anita Brown Unit# K132 445 Cross Creek Rd Auburn,AL,36832 Many boxes and plastic totes, small furniture Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Legal Run 09/25/19 & 10/02/19 . Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Extra Space Storage 1242 North Dean Road. Auburn AL, 36830 on Monday, 10/14/2019 at 1:30 p.m. Mary Nolen Unit# 368 P.O. Box 1206 Auburn, AL, 36831 Dresser, desk, boxes, household items Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Legal Run 09/25/19 & 10/02/19
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF HENRY LEE WALTERS, JR. DECEASED PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2019B-146 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Esate of HENRY LEE WALTERS, JR. deceased having been granted to LaSonta Reeves, on the 18th day of September, 2019 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. LaSonta Reeves Legal Run 09/25/19, 10/02/19 & 10/09/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of Richard Eugene Morris, Sr., Deceased Case No. 2018-A-103 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters of Administration of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 6th day of September, 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. LINDA MORRIS JACOBS OF COUNSEL: Jeffrey G. Tickal, Esq. Gullage & Tickal, LLP 511 Geneva Street Opelika, AL 36801 334-737-3733 Legal Run 09/25/19, 10/02/19 & 10/09/19
CASE NO. 2019-B-202 NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF ALABAMA, LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF GENE H. TORBERT, DECEASED Letters Testamentary upon the Last Will and Testament of sadi decedent, having been granted to the undresigned on the 10th day of September, 2019, by the Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said Estate are required to file an itemized and verified statement of such claim in the office of the said Judge of Probate within six months from the above date, or said claim will be barred and payment prohibited. CLEMENT CLAY TORBERT III, EEXECUTOR Legal Run 09/25/19 & 10/02/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of Johnny Clark Parker Deceased, Case Number: 2019-B-116 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration have been granted to Janet Parker as Administrator of the Estate of Johnny Clark Parker deceased, on the 18th day of September, 2019 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. By: Janet Parker Personal Representative of the Estate of Johnny Clark Parker Legal Run 09/25/19, 10/02/19 & 10/09/19
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF JAMES G. KIRK, JR. COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 27th day of September, 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of
the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness my hand, and dated this the 27th day of September, 2019. JAMES G. KIRK, SR. Legal Run 10/02/19, 10/09/19 & 10/16/19
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF PAT S. BROWN COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 27th day of September, 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness my hand, and dated this the 27th day of September, 2019. CHARLES R. BROWN, JR. WILLIAM H. BROWN Legal Run 10/02/19, 10/09/19 & 10/16/19
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF SARA L. HIGGS COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 27th day of September, 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness my hand, and dated this the 27th day of September, 2019. CAROL LAW DUNCAN Legal Run 10/02/19, 10/09/19 & 10/16/19
NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on WEDNESDAY, OCT. 30, 2019, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801. JT8BF28G0X0168685 1999 LEXUS ES300 Legal Run 10.02/19 & 10/09/19
NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on TUESDAY, OCT. 29, 2019, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801. 1FTKR1ED8BPB16492 2011 FORD RANGER Legal Run 10.02/19 & 10/09/19
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA - FAMILY COURT DIVISION: JUVENILE A.N.S. (DOB: 12/01/2004) JU-2014-025.04 NOTICE OF PETITION & SERVICE BY PUBLICATION TO: The unknown father, of A.N.S. bom at Grady Health System, Atlanta, GA on 12/01/2004 to Susan Nicole Stafford and later adopted by S.S. The legal Custody of A.N.S. was vested with Lee County DHR on 03/01/2018. The unknown father must answer the Petition to Terminate his parental rights within 14 days from the last date of Publication of this notice with the Court Clerk located at 2311 Gateway Dr, Opelika, AL 36801 or a final judgment may be rendered in Case JU-2014-025.04 terminating his parental rights and placing said child for adoption. Mary Roberson, CIRCUIT CLERK Hon. Margaret A. Mayfield Attorney for Lee County DHR P.O, Box 809, Opelika, AL 36803 (334)745-0333 Legal Run 10/02/19, 10/09/19, 10/16/19 & 10/23/19
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B13 Oct. 02, 2019
Senator Jones introduces bipartisan bill to improve school safety Legislation would establish an information database on safe school design Special to the Opelika Observer Last week, U.S. Sens. Doug Jones (D-Ala.) and David Perdue (RGa.) introduced the bipartisan School Safety Clearinghouse Act, which would establish a federally funded and housed information clearinghouse detailing best practices for
formed decisions about how to implement this funding. “Children deserve to go to school and learn in a safe environment,” Jones said, who is a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee. “School leaders should always have the resources they need in
school security and design. As a result of the STOP School Violence Act, which Senator Jones cosponsored last year, many school districts now have access to state and federal funding to improve school security. The School Safety Clearinghouse Act would allow districts to make in-
order to protect our children and their teachers. Our bipartisan bill is a smart step to get more information to communities about how they can make their schools as safe as possible.” The clearinghouse would be managed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and include recommenda-
tions from engineers, architects, first responders, building security experts and mental health advocates. It would not advocate for specific technologies or tools, or impose any mandates on school districts. The legislation follows the Federal Commission on School Safety’s December
2018 recommendation of a federal clearinghouse to assess, identify and share information on school security technology and innovation. The School Safety Clearinghouse Act is also cosponsored by Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia) and Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina).
Alabama Cooperative Extension System to host beekeeping course, modernizing beekeeping industry statewide; industrial hemp program registration opens Special to the Opelika Observer Beekeeping is going digital. Beekeepers across the state will have the opportunity to participate in an online beekeeping course series designed for both hobby and small commercial beekeepers. The workshop, conducted by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, will cover several topics of information important to the industry. Tony Glover, Alabama Extension county coordinator in Cullman County, said there are three sessions of the workshop planned. “These webinars are free and accessible to anyone with a computer, tablet or phone that has internet access,” Glover said. Beekeeping Series The hour-long sessions will be on consecutive Tuesday
evenings beginning Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. • Oct. 15: Equipment Tips from an Apiarist - Tammy Horn-Potter, Kentucky state apiarist, will offer equipment tips based on her equipment successes and failures. • Oct. 22: Making More Money With Your Honey - Kevin Burkett, Alabama Extension Farm and Agribusiness Management agent, will discuss ways to maximize profits. • Oct. 29: Honeybee Breeds: Choosing the Right Bee for Your Area - Jack Rowe, Alabama Extension’s beekeeping program lead, will share the pros and cons associated with various honeybee lines. Registration For information or to register for the online beekeeping course, visit the Alabama Extension
website. Allyson Shabel, an Alabama Extension home grounds agent, who also serves on Alabama Extension’s beekeeping program leadership team, said it is important the people pre-register for the course. “Once people preregister, we will be able to provide them with instructions on how to connect to the webinar,” Shabel said. The webinars display through Zoom, a web conferencing service. “People will want to download and install the Zoom software before the meeting to ensure they don’t have any difficulties connecting to the meeting,” Shabel added. Participants can download the free Zoom application from the Zoom website. 2020 Alabama Industrial Hemp Pro-
gram Registration opens Registration for the 2020 Alabama Industrial Hemp Program opens Oct 7. Growers, processors, handlers and universities will have until Nov. 14 to submit applications. Documentation Required Alabama Extension’s Hemp Action Team Leader Dennis Delaney said it is important applicants submit all required documentation as well the application fee. “Everyone must submit a fully completed application, a required criminal background check, and the $200 non-refundable application fee,” Delaney said. “Not submitting all your required documentation could delay or prevent your application from being approved.” Interested growers
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will be able to download application forms and other required materials from the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI). The anticipated dates for accepting hemp applications for the 2020 Hemp Program will be Oct. 7 through Nov. 14. In 2018, the ADAI rolled out a licensing and inspection program for the production of industrial hemp. Delaney emphasizes that the program is highly regulated. “It is important for the public to understand that no one can grow, transport or process hemp without a permit issued by the ADAI,” Delaney said. In 2019, permitted growers planted the first legal crop of industrial hemp in Alabama since World War II. Extension’s Hemp
Action Team Alabama Extension’s Hemp Action team is developing management practices and protocols related to cultivation and in particular insect and disease management for industrial hemp. “The team has identified a number of insects and diseases on hemp in Alabama this year,” said team plant pathologist Kassie Conner. “We do not know yet if all of them are causing economic damage or are merely incidental.” Conner and Delaney said current licensed growers should contact members of the team for help identifying insect pests and diseases. More Information Find more information about the Alabama Extension Hemp Action Team as well as contact information by visiting Alabama Extension online.
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B14 Oct. 02, 2019
Like crossword puzzles? Sudoku? Play online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/
This week’s Scramblers Answers: 1. Credit; 2. Chagrin; 3. Strike; 4. Swerve; TODAY’S WORD: WEIGHT
Even Exchange Answers 1. Waiter, Writer 2. Tense, Terse 3. Former, Farmer 4. Crowd, Crown 5. Venus, Menus
6. Homer, Hover 7. Garnet, Garret 8. Phony, Phone 9. Jacket, Packet 10. Minor, Miner
Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, Oct. 02, 2019
Inside the Statehouse Ribbon-cutting ceremony held
2020 Senate race right around the corner; GOP field is probably set
E
ven though qualifying does not begin until Oct. 8, 2019, the field is probably set for the GOP Primary in March to unseat the anomaly Democrat, Doug Jones, who is sitting in Alabama’s Republican U.S. Senate Seat. First District Congressman Bradley Bryne and Secretary of State John Merrill may be the favorites to lead the field and square off in a runoff. Either of the two will probably win by a 60-40 margin over Jones in November. The wild card in the race is the iconic character, Roy Moore. He should not be underestimated. He could upset the applecart. He is the only GOP candidate that could possibly lose to Jones. However, in the GOP Primary, Moore has a base of support that is very loyal, older and will show up to vote in the primary. My guess is that
By Steve Flowers his base has dwindled to 15% but if there is a low turnout that number becomes accentuated. Moore will not deviate from his message and he will again ride his horse Sassy to vote in Gallant in his native Etowah County. One-time Auburn football coach, Tommy Tuberville, is hard to figure out. He has released polls showing that he is in the lead, but my guess is that he will implode. He has not lived in Alabama for more than a decade and supposedly had a Florida driver’s license
and was registered to vote in Florida when he decided to run. Although, Tuberville’s garnering of the ALFA/Farmer’s Federation endorsement last week is big - this endorsement gives his campaign tremendous credibility. It is a significant and a helpful boost in a statewide Republican Primary. However, it is doubtful that he realizes the importance of the endorsement. A well-known female office holder like Twinkle Cavanaugh could have been a player in this race. However, she chose to run for reelection for Public Service Commission president. The most astute politician in Alabama political history was one George C. Wallace. He was a political genius, especially when it came to Alabama politics. When I was a young legislator, he would invite me down to the Governor’s office to See Flowers, page B16
Federal storm shelter grants now available for Lee County residents By Michelle Key Publisher Lee County EMA Director Kathy Carson notified the county commissioners on Monday night that Lee County was approved for more than $400,000 in grant funds to be used for individual storm shelters. Applications for grants are now available at the EMA offices. The organization will also be holding
a series of public meeting for interested applications with the first one being held Oct. 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Lee County Meeting Center. Commissioner Johnny Lawerence presented a resolution naming Lee County as a Purple Heart County as a way of honoring the many Purple Heart recipients that reside or do business within Lee County. Special placards will be
placed on parking spaces at county offices. Following an executive session, the commission voted to approve a realestate offer on property owned by the county. The property is located on South Railroad Avenue. In other business, the commission: • read a resolution for the Pilot Club’s International Founders Day See LCC, page B16
Located in Historic Downtown Opelika
334-745-4618
Friday for new Opelika Police Department, Municipal Court
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Local dignitaries and officials gathered Friday for a ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new Opelika Municipal Court and Police Department. According to an August interview with OPD Staff Services Capt. Ed Clark, the structure is nearly 38,000 square feet in size. The new courtroom will house more than 200 people and eventually be used for city council and planning commission meetings later this year. On OPD’s side, they will have increased meeting and resting spaces, gym and K-9 facility.
Smiths Station City Council votes to recognize lives of two well-known citizens with installation of pavers in front of Historic Jones Store Museum By Morgan Bryce Editor The Smiths Station City Council voted unanimously to approve the installation of pavers in front of the Historic Jones Store Museum during their regular meeting last Tuesday that would honor two individuals who made lasting contributions to the city. This year's honorees are S.L. Mullin and J.B. Page, who were selected by members of
Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer Smiths Station Historic Preservation Commission. According to Mayor
F.L. "Bubba" Copeland, Mullin was the See Council, page B16
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B16 Oct. 02, 2019
Alabama Farmers Federation announces 2020 endorsements Special to the Opelika Observer The Alabama Farmers Federation’s political action committee, FarmPAC, announced endorsements last week for the March 2020 primary elections. More than 100 federation leaders, including representatives from all 67 counties, gathered in Montgomery to hear from candidates and make endorsement recommendations. Federation President Jimmy Parnell said the meeting is among the most important held by the state’s largest farm organization and aligns with its founding mission. “Alabama Farmers Federation was founded to give farmers a voice in the political process and to advocate for issues important to rural families,” Parnell
said. “Candidates are eager to meet with this group because they understand the value of the FarmPAC endorsement. As representatives of rural communities across this state, these county leaders reflect the values, concerns and hopes of many Alabamians.” Those endorsed by Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer FarmPAC were: From left are FarmPAC Chairman Steve Dunn of • Donald Trump — Conecuh County, FarmPAC-endorsed candidate President Twinkle Cavanaugh and Alabama Farmers Federa• Tommy Tuberville tion President Jimmy Parnell. — U.S. Senate Dunn said the federation Appeals, Place 2 • Brad Mendheim, • Twinkle Cavanaugh, encourages voters to study Alabama Supreme Court, the issues and candidates Alabama Public Service Place 2 prior to the election. Commission President • Bill Thompson, “It’s important for AlaFarmPAC did not Alabama Court of Civil bama voters to be engaged make endorsements in Appeals, Place 1 in the electoral process,” • Matt Fridy, Alabama every race. Endorsements Dunn said. “We encourage approved at Tuesday’s Court of Civil Appeals, members to exercise their meeting will carry through Place 2 right to vote, regardless to the general election. • Mary Windom, Alaof their political preferFarmPAC reserves the opbama Court of Criminal ence, and to consider these tion to make additional enAppeals, Place 1 FarmPAC endorsements dorsements at a later date. • Beth Kellum, AlaFarmPAC Chairman Steve when they go to the polls.” bama Court of Criminal
Auburn, Smiths Station residents visit Mike Rogers
Council, from B15 patriarch of a family whose life in Smiths Station spans five generations and donated tracts of land now in use by Midway, Mt. Olive and Philadelphia Baptist churches. He added that Page worked for more than 40 years as an administrator at Smiths Station High School. "These men and their legacies are part of the foundation of our great city, and these pavers are a way for us to commemorate their contributions and impact on Smiths Station residents for years to come," Copeland said. Standing between representatives from Chattahoochee Valley Community College, Copeland read a proclamation declaring Sept. 22 to 28 as "Adult Literacy Week" in the city. The city also received a donation of a flag from local Woodmen of the World representative Ricky
LCC, from B15 John and Alana Franklin of Auburn visited with Walter and Trudy Johnson of Smiths Station visited Rep. Mike Rogers today at his “Mornings with Mike” with Rep. Mike Rogers today at his “Mornings with event before their tour of the U.S. Capitol. Mike” event before their tour of the U.S. Capitol.
Flowers, from B15 talk politics. The Legislature met in the Capitol in those days and I could just walk down a flight of steps to his suite of offices. He would be holed up back in the private office where I have met with a good many governors over the years. Kay Ivey sits in Wallace’s office today. He would greet me with the same message each time as we sat down for a visit. He really liked to reminisce with his ever-present cigar. In later years, as I sat with other governors, I would often wonder how they got Wallace’s cigar smoke out of that room. He really could not hear well in his later years, so he did most of the talking.
He would cock his head in a certain way and it would signal to me that he was going to impart some sage bit of wisdom. On more than one occasion, he would instill this message: “More people vote against someone than for someone.” He would further elaborate, “To win, you have got to have a boogeyman to run against.” He ran against integration for a decade. However, when black Alabamians began voting, he had to find a new boogeyman. He went back to the old tried-and-true path used by most populist Southern demagogues - he ran against the Big Mules. Big Jim Folsom was better than Wallace at this game. Big Jim never deviated from his message. It was about running against the big mules and big planters. Big Jim
refused to race bait. He was always a true-blue progressive. Well, my advice to these Republican candidates for the 2020 U.S. Senate race is you have the perfect, ideal boogeyman to run against. He is actually your legitimate opponent sitting right in front of you. It’s Doug Jones, stupid. In the Heart of Dixie, in one of, if not the most Republican states in America, you have sitting in your Republican U.S. Senate seat a liberal national Democrat who cozies up to and organizes with and votes with Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Barack Obama. Wallace would have loved that boogeyman and he would not have had to conjure him up one. Man would he have loved to run against Doug
Jones. Therefore, the best course of action for the Republican frontrunners would be to not go negative against each other or any other GOP candidate in the Republican Primary. Consistently focus in and run against Jones and do not talk about your GOP opposition. Take some advice from another pretty good national politician, Ronald Reagan. President Reagan’s advice to fellow Republicans was the 11th Commandment, “Speak no ill of a fellow Republican.” 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.
• EMA’s Rita Smith was recognized for completing the studies required to be desiginated as a Master Public Information Officer, making her only one of two PIO’s in the state to have this designation • announced an opening on the Beulah Utilities District Board • heard from Lee County residents regarding Lee County Highway 3 and asked the commission to make a determination on whether or not the road is a public county road or a private roadway. The commission did not make a determination on this matter during the meeting but plans to research and review information and will readdress the
This week’s puzzle answers:
Thornton to be used for a new flagpole at the Smiths Station Sports Complex. Thornton's organization, along with Flags for Vets, helped gift the flagpole for use at a recently completed field at the facility. In other business, the council: - approved the financial statement for the month of August - approved a motion setting Halloween trick-or-treating festivities from 5:30 to 8 p.m. E.S.T. within city limits - voted to approve Copeland's call for the city's annual audit. The Smiths Station City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, with a work session beginning at 5:30 p.m. E.S.T. and regular meeting at 6 p.m. Their meetings are held within the council chambers of the Smiths Station Government Center, which is located at 2336 Lee Road 430. For more information, call 334-297-8771 or visit www.smithsstational.gov. issue at the next commission meeting. • approved a funding agreement with the City of Opelika for the purposed of building a roundabout at the intersection of Lee Road 54 and Gateway Drive. The county’s cost for the project will be capped at $200,000 • approved preliminary plats for the Magnolia Ridge Subdivision, Phase II and the Haley Woods Subdivision, Phase V and • approved the fiscal year 2020 budget, outside agencies funding agreements and approved annual leave hours based on annual employee evaluations in place of merit raises for FY2020. The county commission’s next meeting will be held on Oct. 14 at 5 p.m. Meetings are held in the commission chambers in the Lee County Courthouse Annex.
Photo by Michelle Key/Puyblisher