10-07-2020 E-edition

Vol. 13, No. 1

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

pelika Observer O

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Opelika's Municipal Election is over and the winners are:

ALLEN WARD 1

By Opelika Observer Staff Opelika’s Municipal elections wrapped up Tuesday night with three candidates emerging as the victors of their respective races. These results are unofficial and will be canvassed and made official during a meeting next week at noon on Oct. 13.

Ward 1 – George

LOFTON WARD 3 Allen v. Jamie Lowe George Allen won the seat for Ward 1, beating out his opponent Jamie Lowe. Allen, with 162 absentee votes, earned a total of 404 votes, while Lowe had 320.

Allen, who has served on several local committees and foundations outlined his Ward 1 goals during his campaign: jobs for citizens, eradicating poverty and

future. I just want to get to work and get to know the other people on the council and work for a better Opelika, especially Ward 1.”

Allen is currently a fundraising member for the J.W. Darden Foundation, a member of the Lee County Voters League and Youth Organization,

Area pumpkin patches are open for business

By Will Fairless Associate Editor Rocky Top Pumpkin Patch The Farm at Rocky Top, located in Salem, about 15 minutes from downtown Opelika, has just opened “Rocky Top Pumpkin Patch” for the fourth year. At a venue that also does weddings and an annual Christmas celebration, the pumpkin patch is See PUMPKIN, page A3

Opelika Police Department launches new 'Together, Opelika' campaign

By Will Fairless Associate Editor

RAUCH WARD 5

homelessness and education for children of the city.

“The first order of business is to thank the people of Ward 1 for their support,” Allen said. “It was a hard fight, but I was able to develop a dream team, and we worked hard and were able to be successful. I’d like to thank Jamie for a hard race run as well and wish him luck in the

Opelika, Alabama

See ELECTION page A5

City of Opelika to host diversity and inclusion sessions

The Opelika Police Department announced at a press conference Tuesday morning, that it has launched its 'Together, Opelika' campaign.

“The new campaign is being introduced with three primary goals,” the release said. · “To Lower Crime And Increase Community Engagement · To Build Community Trust in our police department in a time when people are exposed to mostly negative interactions with law enforcement on the news and social media · To Establish Genuine Relationships between the Opelika Police Department and the community · To Encourage Community Support For Our Officers by humanizing the badge – we want to show the

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MAYOR FULLER community that each officer is someone’s brother/sister, father/ mother, son/daughter.”

OPD will be implementing and creating new ways for the city to push out and receive information, the release said. The police department has new social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram all @opelikapd and on Youtube at OpelikaCityGov), a website that will soon be revamped (opelikapd. org) and an app that is in development now.

See OPD, page A2 we

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JOIN US!

Opelika Listening sessions

Courtesy of the City of Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller and the Opelika City Council would like to invite all Opelikians to a listening session to discuss issues related to diversity and inclusion. The Photo submitted by Christyne Klingensmith

See DIVERSITY, page A3

Join The City of Opelika to discuss issues related to diversity and inclusion.

LISTENING SESSIONS

OPELIKA MUNICIPAL COURTROOM • 5 - 7 P.M. 300 Martin Luther King BLVD. Ward 4 – Tuesday, October 13 Ward 2 – Thursday, October 15 Ward 1 – Tuesday, October 27 Ward 3 – Thursday, October 29 Ward 5 – Thursday, November 5 Diversity and inclusion are important to the success of any community. Your voice matters. Please plan to take part in this meaningful discussion. Moderator will ask questions to engage residents in a thoughtful and productive community conversation.

Questions, contact City of Opelika, Community Relations Officer, Leigh Krehling, lkrehling@opelika-al.gov.

Moderated by Leadership Empowerment Strategies

Index OPINION. . . . . . . . . . . A4

SPORTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . B1

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY.A7

POLITICS . . . . . . . . . . . . B9

RELIGION. . . . . . . . . . . A13

CLASSIFIEDS . . . . . . . .

COMICS. . . . . . . . . . . . A16

PUBLIC NOTICES. . . . . . . B11

B11

Thank you Opelika!

We are so grateful for your support!

Todd & Ali Rauch

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

A2 October 07, 2020

Opelika Chamber Honors First Responders Courtesy of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce

The Opelika Chamber of Commerce considers it a privilege to honor our First Responders with an annual breakfast. The event, held on Sept.

25 at Saugahatchee Country Club honored members of the Opelika Fire Department, EAMC’s Emergency Medical Services and the Lee County Emergency Management Agency.

By definition, a first responder is an employee of an emergency service who is likely to be among the first people to arrive at and assist at the scene of an

emergency, such as an accident, natural disaster or terrorist attack. Typically this includes police officers, firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians.

“We are so very fortunate to have highly skilled and certified first responders in Opelika and Lee County that spend tireless hours keeping us safe and saving lives,” said Opelika Chamber President Ali Rauch. “Today’s breakfast is just a small token of the appreciation we have for our first responders, and we encourage you to show your gratitude by telling them how

much you appreciate their sacrifice and service.”

The annual First

Responder’s Breakfast is one of 100plus events and programs that the Opelika Chamber puts on each year to help achieve its mission. This event was sponsored by Opelika Sportsplex & Aquatics Center, Renasant Bank, BBVA, Christie Ray Hill State Farm Insurance and the East Alabama Medical Center. If businesses are interested in being a part of the 2021 First Responders Break-

fast, they can reach out to Membership Director Jill Robinson at jrobinson@ opelikachamber. com.

About the Opelika Chamber of Commerce Founded in 1941, the Opelika Chamber has been serving the Opelika business community for more than 75 years. Under the leadership of Ali Rauch, the president and CEO, a staff of four works diligently to be the

OPD >>

citizens to participate by inviting police into their neighborhoods, creating dialogue with them and sharing ideas. The new app will make it easier for citizens to uphold their end of this bargain.

“Our police department is already doing great things, but we can always be better,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller.

“It’s time for us to start sharing what we are doing with the public and working with citizens to determine better ways to engage with them.”

The police department also announced the hiring of a new Community Relations Specialist, Allison Duke.

“The new Community Relations/Special Services Division is focused on engaging with citizens of Opelika, improving cultural relations and

FROM A1

Captain Shane Healey said that the campaign is designed to build trust and relationships between the community and the police department. The department is trying to improve how it relates to the community, namely by getting out of police cars and engaging with people on their turf,” he said.

“We know that patrolling neighborhoods is not enough,” Healey said.

He added that although he knows it’s not necessarily natural or comfortable for people to go to the police department (thus the department’s focus on interacting out in the community), Together, Opelika is not a oneway street. He asked for

pelika Observer

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

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

www.opelikaobserver.com

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

CORRECTIONS

prominent, focal business organization supporting economic growth while sustaining a better quality of life for the community through multiple partnerships. The Opelika Chamber of Commerce promotes and fosters economic and business success, maximizes member investment, while enhancing the community.

ALLISON DUKE

strengthening employee relations,” another press release from the city said.

“We are proud to welcome Allison to the team and have her help to bridge the gap between our police department and the community,” Healey said. “She comes to us with many years of experience in communications and community engagement and we look forward to her developing strong relationships in the community.”

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A3 October 07, 2020

State of Local Emergency lifted

By Hannah Lester hlester@opelikaobserver.com

Auburn City Council met for a special called meeting Thursday and announced that the State of Local Emergency, which placed restrictions on bars, has been lifted.

PUMPKIN

>>

FROM A1

open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday in October.

The pumpkin patch has tons of activities, including a wagon ride, an animal petting barn, inflatables, a child-size train, “Hay Bale Mountain,” duck races, tug of war, a zip line for children and giant yard games.

“Some adults think a pumpkin patch is just for kids, but we have something for all ages to do,” said Jan Lawrence, one of the owners of Rocky Top. Among those adult activities are the Pony Express, which is racing on adult-size bouncy horses, tether ball (so popular last year that they added another) and mazes that can get the best of anyone, regardless of age.

The concessions stand offers hamburgers, hotdogs, BBQ, roasted corn and loaded baked potatoes. Salem Sno Balls will be at the farm with its 20 flavors of snow cones, Triple J Farms will be selling honey from the hives on Rocky Top and Laurie’s Apples will be selling gourmet apples. Last

DIVERSITY >>

FROM A1

city will be hosting one for each ward in the coming weeks.

Each will be from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Opelika Municipal Courtroom, and will be held on the following dates: · Ward 4 – Tuesday, Oct. 13 · Ward 2 – Thursday, Oct.15 · Ward 1 – Tuesday, Oct. 27 · Ward 3 – Thursday, Oct. 29 · Ward 5 – Thursday, Nov. 5 “Diversity and

The restriction was put in place on Aug. 28 after there was a high influx of patrons in downtown bars.

The State of Local Emergency specified that bar patrons must be seated in order to be served alcohol.

Although two local bars closed voluntarily, the State of Local Emergency allowed bars to remain open, despite restrictions, council members said at the meeting on Aug. 28.

The council met on

but not least, without Opelika Farmers Market’s contributions, Rocky Top would just be a bunch of fall fun; the farmers market will make it a pumpkin patch.

“The perfect day at the patch of course is beautiful fall weather with plenty of sunshine, laughter in the air and smiles on the faces of both young and old,” Lawrence said.

Smiles might also be spotted on the faces of the Country Crows, scarecrow-type figures that can be seen all over the farm doing anything from getting married to making moonshine.

Yet another source of smiles on the farm is the pets that will be brought out by several humane societies.

This year, continuing Rocky Top’s tradition of getting pets adopted during its events, the Lee County Humane Society, Macon County Humane Society, and Animal Health Center and Woof Rescue will be at the pumpkin patch with pets available for adoption.

“We are very excited to be able to offer a place where family and friends can come and enjoy the country and just spend time togeth-

er. We take pride in being able to give them that,” Lawrence said.

For more information about Rocky Top, visit its website (rockytoppumpkinpatch.com).

inclusion are important to the success of any community,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller. “Your voice matters. Please plan to take part in this meaningful discussion.

Looking closely at diversity will help us to achieve core public values such as equality, fairness, impartiality and inclusiveness.”

Each session will be moderated by the Leadership Empowerment Strategies. The moderator will ask questions to engage residents in a thoughtful and productive community conversa-

tion.

Masks are mandatory and social distancing will be enforced. Seating will be limited. Those unable to attend in person can watch the listening session live on the city’s YouTube

KNOW your status MANAGE your health LIVE your best life

Thursday, one day after Gov. Kay Ivey held her press conference, to lift the State of Local Emergency.

The Alabama Beverage Control Board also announced early this week that its restrictions on bars have been

lifted as well. Bars can now serve alcohol past 11 p.m.

“The ABC Board also passed an emergency order requiring ABC licensed businesses to require face coverings, maintain social distancing, admit no more

than 50% occupancy and other regulations to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” the city release said. “The ABC Board will be strictly enforcing its new order.”

Farmer in the Dell Famer in the Dell, a pumpkin patch in Auburn, grows its own pumpkins on the property, which allows visitors to cut their selections off the vine themselves.

Usually, the patch has field trips that have farm-related lessons for children, but those have been cancelled this year as a result of COVID-19.

“A perfect day at the farm in my opinion Photo submitted by Julie Wright

Photo submitted by Kristen Mayes

Channel. (Go to www. opelika-al.gov and click on the YouTube Channel button.)

For questions, contact city of Opelika Community Relations Officer Leigh Krehling at lkrehling@ opelika-al.gov.

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thinking as a customer and not the owner would be, my family would visit, we would have lots of time together in a relaxed environment enjoying creation and as our moto goes ‘make memories that last a lifetime’,” Marie Foshee, the owner of Farmer in the Dell, wrote in an email to the Observer.

All of the patch’s equipment will be

wiped down with disinfectant, and it asks that visitors wear masks on their hayride and when standing in lines. “Other than that, we want them to feel freedom and breath in fresh air,” Foshee said.

The Farmer in the Dell is open most days in October; its full calendar and other information can be found on the patch’s website (auburnpumpkinpatch. com).

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A4 October 07, 2020

T

oday, as what has been called the “silly season” is going full swing, as legislative bodies are passing laws willy-nilly, as candidates and their supporters are promising great things if they win and disaster if they don’t, two words come to mind: typical and ironic.

(You were thinking other words, weren’t you? Shame, shame.)

Loyal readers of this column will recall that Southerners use the term “typical” to suggest something you would expect but you don’t necessarily approve of. As revealed in this conversation: “Willard was gonna cook ribs for us but had

I

was raised in a small, country church in Little Texas, Alabama. “Where exactly is that?” people ask. “Well it’s just outside of town, over the hill, down a dirt road, across the paved highway and just beyond the outdoor tabernacle on your right.”

And there you’ll find Union Christian Church.

A palace of sorts, where I met Jesus every week from the time I was a baby until I married at 24. Except for my childhood home, there is not a place in my soul that holds more treasure than this church, jewels of silver and gold forever stored in my heart that can never be taken from me.

Union was filled with white-headed, southern ladies and their kind country husbands. It was loaded with smiles and hugs and hymns and candy. The spread of casseroles for Sunday fellowship was close to a hundred and the delight in my existence as a child of God was never overlooked.

I went to church with women called Mrs. Betty, Aunt Fan, Mama Joy,

M

URRAY, Utah.—John works at a Nissan dealership in the service department. A customer called and said they had a big problem.

John explains, “I took a call from a very distraught lady this morning, stating their new kitten had gotten stuck behind the dash in their car.”

So, drawing upon his years of automotive customer service insight, John suggested that the woman “Bring it in.”

In the garage, three technicians began disassembling her dashboard with tools and flashlights.

Which is not an easy job. They removed the

Alabama all over again trouble getting the charcoal going so he threw some gas on it and burned off his eyebrows and the ribs too.”

“Now ain’t that just typical.”

“Irony,” on the other hand, is a little more slippery, for it involves an action that one would expect to go in one direction and, whoop, it turns around and goes the other.

Alabama politics typically drips with irony.

Consider. Once upon a time our legislators revisited the state’s anti-obscenity law. It was passed back in 1998 at the behest of a representative from Madison County who discovered women dancing naked up there and asked the

By Hardy Jackson legislature to put a stop to it. (How did he make this discovery? As we say in South Alabama, “some swamps don’t need draining.”).

Seeing this as a great chance to go on record for morality, our legislators decided to outlaw unclothed choreography in the rest of the state as

well. Then, just in case some pervert wanted to watch that sort of thing on film they added a clause that put a crimp in the distribution of X-rated videos.

Now if they had stopped there, you probably never would have heard another thing about it, but they didn’t. At the last minute, someone decided that while they were doing all that criminalizing they might as well strike sin another blow, so they outlawed the sale of SEX TOYS! We are not talking Ken and Barbie unrobed, no sir. The bill made it illegal to sell “any device designed or marketed as useful primarily for the stimula-

tion of human genitals.”

(Never let it be said that moral crusaders can’t get graphic when they have to.)

Who wouldn’t want to protect the public from that?

So, it passed.

And everybody was happy, right?

Well, no. It seems that folks from a company that called itself, with a fine feeling for words, “Saucy Ladies,” went to court. You see, what our legislators consider sex toys are “marital aids” to saucy ladies. And besides, the company claimed these devices are used in the privacy of one’s own home, where the government has no business going.

Little Texas to Sardis

Pauline and Bernice.

They all loved me and they all wore bright pink lipstick. Mrs. Betty wore scarves around her neck.

Aunt Fan was known for her caramel cake, and Pauline was gentle, always accompanied by her jolly husband George. Mama Joy was the Mother Theresa of Union, and Bernice was one of her best friends.

My father sang in the tiny choir and I sat with my sister and mother every Sunday, squashed into wooden pews, covered in green velvet cloth. Little Mrs. Margie sat next to us. I believe she was under five feet tall and she had her very own foot stool that never left its spot beneath the pew.

Mrs. Rosa and Harold sat just behind us and they would often invite me to sit with them.

Rosa and Harold always made me feel warm and loved. This was the thing at Union; I was always invited to be part of something greater and beyond my expectation.

My older brother Joe sat in the very front row by himself. I can still see the back of his head facing the preacher. I do

not know if I longed to sit with him or if maybe I was just keeping tabs on everyone, for I noticed the entire church in attendance. Everyone was always there.

Always.

At least that’s how I remember it.

You do not know the impact something small and subtle has on your life until one day it’s missing. One day, when you least expect it, a connection you felt forever will be gone. And oddly, you won’t even know what it is.

It’s kind of like when you stop picking up children to hold. You don’t know when it happens or document it, but after a certain number of days, you think to yourself, “Shep hasn’t asked me to pick him up…” Then you see and know that time has moved on, and that connection you once had is gone.

I began to feel this emptiness about 10 weeks after the beginning of quarantine life.

When churches closed, our Sundays were spent relaxing on porch swings, cooking breakfast and planting seeds

for summer harvest. We often went to the river to play or hung out at our pond. This was wonderful and all, but after a while, Sunday showed up missing. The day was still there, but it wasn’t the Sunday I knew.

I wanted my Sunday back. I wanted a pew and hymns and smiles and Jesus.

Out of nowhere one Sunday morning, the husband said, “Everybody get up. We’re gettin’ dressed today and we’re going to church!”

The kids began their usual inquisitive riot while I sat in bed sipping coffee wondering, “Where in the world is this man taking us?”

We all did as we were told. We ate breakfast and shimmied all over the house with a little pep and thrill like Christmas morning.

(We were going to meet Jesus, so to speak.)

Shep put on his favorite blazer and I was filled with the spirit as I donned my favorite summer gown of blue and white. The Farmer placed his Fedora on his head, picked up his bible and off we set to an unknown place called

Sardis.

We pulled up to a white church just south of the Lake Martin

By Bradley Robertson community. The parking lot held about 10 cars and we each had to wear a mask to enter.

We were greeted on the front porch by the only person there my husband knew, Pastor Steve. I had never met the man before, but Isaac remembered him from his youth.

Now how in the world my husband connected with this man from long ago and ended up here on this day is nothing short of divine intervention. Walking into Sardis was like stepping

The state, not wishing to appear soft on the sex toy scourge, fought back. And lost.

The court ruled that the relationship between a person and his or her “aid” was not for regulating and told Alabama to rewrite the law.

Alabama, of course, appealed.

OK, lets run through this again. Legislators, upset with something going on in Madison County, outlawed it there and everywhere else, even though it might not have been going on everywhere else. All this ends up in court and guess what?

Alabama loses. And guess what else? Alabama appeals.

Ain’t that just typical?

right back into my Little Texas church.

Greetings and smiles, which could be felt and seen beneath masks.

Wooden pews and red hymnals. Light shining in front doors and beaming through windows. I felt a peace and spirit that had not been brought before me in months. I knew not a soul but felt right at home.

“Is this what heaven may feel like?” I ask myself today. Will it be like entering the unknown yet feeling that it is the perfect place to be. Could this be a hint of the Kingdom of God? This Sardis?

“Come. Have a seat right here. Rest. No need to do anything at all.

Just be here…”

I cry now to sit and think about it. Are we perhaps so busy to fix and do more that we have missed the simplicity of Holy Love?

Oh, let’s not miss it dear friends. Let us please not miss it. God says it only takes a mustard seed. It is that one, tiny seed of faith and hope that delivers love into the world, and that love is peace.

Good stereo, the glovebox, and components of the AC unit. Finally, after a lot of work, one of the guys announced, “We have a tail!”

Applause.

Technicians shined lights into the deep crevices of the vehicle until one man rolled his sleeves up and said, “Okay. I’m going in.”

And anyone who has ever retrieved a sharpclawed domesticated creature from a tight space such as, say, a set of box springs at your inlaws’ house, knows what an ordeal it is.

Imagine, several burly auto mechanics who often eat undercooked

By Sean Dietrich red meat for supper and wash it down with Anheuser Busch products, trying to coax a kitty out of hiding. The men used very high-pitched baby voices and said things like, “Come here, cutie wootie. C’mon, you can

do it. Come on, cutie wootie.”

Finally, a gray kitten emerged and an entire auto garage cheered. One of the mechanics even held the cat to his face and kissed her, saying, quote:

“She’s such a cutie wootie. Yes she is. Yes she is.”

Afterward, the large men had their pictures taken with the kitten.

John reports, “In my job, you never know what can happen.”

VICTORIA, Au.— Three brothers in Australia won the lottery yesterday. They’ve been playing the same numbers faithfully for 40 years.

It takes a lot of determination to play a game of chance for that long.

Especially one that has left you empty handed for decades. It takes even more persistence to play the same losing numbers.

“I don’t remember why we chose these numbers exactly,” says one brother. “All I know is that 40 years ago we each wrote down numbers and selected a ticket to play.

We’ve been playing ever since.”

Those numbers, in case you need some good luck, are: 28, 7, 36, 1, 42, 22, 14, 11.

The jackpot was $400,000. And I, for one, vote that the three brothers go to Disney World.

TAYLORSVILLE, N.C.—Jeannie Wilson found a two-headed snake in her sunroom and captured it. She was fasSee DIETRICH, page A5

A5 October 07, 2020

Opelika power services receives national commendations for electric restoration efforts in reponse to hurricane Laura and hurricane Sally Courtesy of Opelika Power Services

Opelika Power Services (OPS) has received national commendations from the American Public Power Association (APPA) for its support in electric power restoration efforts in Vinton, Louisiana, and Robertsdale, Alabama.

On Aug. 27, 2020, OPS sent a six-man crew to assist Vinton, which suffered widespread outages as a re-

ELECTION >>

FROM A1

a member of the Reactivation Committee for the Lee County Branch of the NAACP, he serves at Covington recreation and more.

Lowe offered the following statement: “We fought hard. Mr. Allen’s team fought hard as well. It was a very crowded field to begin with, so making it to the runoff—I’m content with that. I want to wish Mr. Allen as much luck—I know he’s not gonna need it; he’s going to be an excellent public serviceman. I’ll be here, just like I was beforehand, at every city council meeting I can make.”

Ward 3 – Michael Carter v. Robert Lofton Robert Lofton beat Michael Carter in the contested Ward 3 race.

Lofton earned 312 votes against Carter’s 188.

Lofton comes to the city council position as a retired citizen of Opelika who has said he will give his full attention to the city.

“Thank you to everybody who worked really really hard,” Lofton said.

JACKSON >>

FROM A4

‘Course it is.

But is it ironic? Not yet, but I’m getting there.

While all this appealing was going on, and lawyers were getting rich, our legislature set to reconsidering the an-

DIETRICH>>

FROM A4

cinated with the creature.

Personally, I hate snakes. In fact, I can hardly write this without getting lightheaded.

But anyway, Jeannie wasn’t sure whether she was seeing things correctly at first. The baby rat snake was about 12 inches long with two heads growing side by side. The left head was more dominant. But snake-wise, everything else seemed to be in order. Both mouths contained forked tongues, and all four eyes looked Satanic.

sult of Hurricane Laura.

The crew was led

by Rusty Hornsby and consisted of Corey Burke, Taylor Simmons, Justin Adams, Jake Wilson and Joe Hodnett and worked until Sept. 7 repairing distribution lines.

According to Hornsby, they repaired all the distribution lines before the transmission lines to the community had been restored. Transmission service was restored a few days after their departure and the “We had a lot of people who worked to help me get to this position. I’ll do my very best not to let them down. That’s my promise. I’d like to say to Michael Carter— Michael ran a really good race, he worked really hard, and it was, I thought, a good race, and I appreciate the way he handled the whole situation.”

Carter told the Observer: “I would like to first thank my supporters, family, and more importantly God for supporting me during this campaign. I am proud of the clean and honest campaign that we ran.

While today’s results are not what we desired, my passion to serve this city has not ceased. I look forward to what the future holds. I wish Mr. Lofton well as he steps into his new role as Ward 3 Councilman.”

community was able to receive power.

On Sept. 18, 2020, OPS sent another sixman crew to assist Robertsdale, which suffered widespread outages as a result of Hurricane Sally.

This crew, led by Zack Hester, consisted of Taylor Simmons, Wesley Ballard, Jacob Adams, Kyle Gray and Jake Wilson. Hester stated, “This is the hardest I have worked on a storm. We replaced a great deal of

poles and big wire the entire time we were in Robertsdale.” Other crew members echoed his statement. The crew left Robertsdale on Sept. 22 and went to assist Riviera Utilities in Foley, Alabama, until Sept. 26.

“Opelika Power Services is very proud to be able to assist other communities during power outage events like these two hurricanes. We are grateful to the Mayor and City Council of Opelika for

allowing us to send our team to assist other communities when they need help. Our team loves to help our neighbors when they need help because we never know when we may need it,” said Derek Lee, Director of Opelika Power Services.

“These commendations go to our lineman who worked hard to assist these communities and families to get their power back on while spending time away from their family and

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

community.”

Opelika Power Services participates in the American Public Power Association’s Mutual Aid Network, which coordinates with utilities and authorities during widespread power outages.

For more information on Opelika Power Services and its commitment to mutual aid, visit www.opelikapower.com or www.

PublicPower.org/MutualAid.w

Smiths Station since 1965, when he was 10 years old. He has been married to Susan Lansdon for 47 years; they have four children and seven grandchildren.

“I’ll do my best to represent the people of Smiths Station as Council member for Place 3, with common sense, in a fair and ethical manner,” Lansdon said. “I want to thank each and every one of you for your support and your vote. A special thank you to all who participated in my campaign. I look forward to working “together” with Mayor Copeland, the council and [the] citizens of Smiths Station.”

Adkins offered the following statement to Lansdon: “I would like to congratulate Mr. Landson on a great election. I got to know him while campaigning. He will be a great addition to our wonderful city. We will continue to partner up on future goals and programs to bring forth.

I’m thankful for this opportunity. I will continue being a pillar of the community, and a voice for [the] old and young. I hope to bridge the gap.”

Ward 5 – David Canon v. Todd Rauch Todd Rauch won Opelika’s City Council runoff election for Ward 5. Out of 1051 votes cast in Ward 5, Rauch received 61.3% of the votes while incumbent David Canon received 38.7%.

“I’m really proud of the citizens in Ward 5 for going out there, being a part of the process and voting for a second time, six weeks after they voted the first time,” Rauch said. “It gives me a lot of hope because I want everyone in Ward 5 to feel like they’re represented, I want them to feel like they’re part of the process and the government.”

Todd thanked Canon for his many years of service.

“I want to thank councilman Canon and his wife, Ann Canon, for everything that they’ve done for decades in the city of Opelika and Ward 5,” Rauch said. “I appreciate all their service, and we’re planning on continuing, building on, the

lineage that they left.”

Rauch, an Auburn University graduate, currently serves as vice president of the Community Foundation of East Alabama.

Canon issued the following statement: “Thanks to the people of Opelika for allowing me to serve this wonderful community for over 10 years as a member of the Opelika city council, the Opelika planning commission and Lee Russell council governments. I would like to congratulate Todd Rauch for his victory over me in the runoff election tonight. I wish him nothing but the best.”

Smiths Station - Place 3 Karmarcus Adkins v.

Steve Lansdon

The city of Smiths Station also held a runoff election for the Place 3 Seat on their city council. Steve Lansdon is the unofficial winner of the runoff election. Lansdon carried 106 votes to Kamarcus Adkins’s 66 votes. A special ceremony will be held Oct. 13 at noon Eastern time to canvass and finalize the results.

Lansdon has lived in

ti-obscenity law, which is pretty much unenforceable with the sex toy/marital aid clause in it.

So, you would think that legislators would solve the problem by taking one of those big old black magic markers and crossing out the offending section, leaving

the rest intact.

Not in Alabama.

When a representative from Birmingham proposed simply taking the ban out of the bill, a majority of our legislators, not wanting the folks back home to think they approved of such, voted to keep those things illegal. They also,

in effect, voted to keep the court case going and the court cost rising.

But if it’s in the name of public decency it’s OK, I guess.

Typical again. But where is the irony?

Be patient.

So what happened?

Nothing. A federal judge told us we couldn’t

have an anti-obscenity law that includes a toy/ aid prohibition. We passed one anyway.

But we can’t enforce it because the judge told us we couldn’t.

So passing this anti-obscenity law leaves Alabama without an anti-obscenity law.

Isn’t that ironic?

Ain’t that just typical?

Alabama all over again.

Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is professor emeritus of history at Jacksonville State University. He can be reached at hhjackson43@gmail. com.

The first thing Jeannie did was call her son-inlaw. She told him, “Hey, I’m not crazy… He’s got two heads.”

When her son-in-law arrived, the young man thoroughly inspected the reptile. He must have sensed the historical context of this occasion, because he remarked, “He does have two heads, don’t he?”

She named the snake Double Trouble. Jeannie and her new friend became celebrities almost overnight. They even made it on the local news, where Jeannie, who looks like a sweet woman, was shown with

a snake slithering up her bare arms. She wore a smile that seemed to say, “Isn’t he a cutie wootie?”

I think I’m going to be sick.

Jeannie turned the snake over to experts at the Catawba Science Center, who promise to give it a permanent home. This way, schoolchildren can see the world’s rarest snake and experience for themselves the Fifth Circle of Hell.

TEWKSBURY, Mass.—Police officer Eric Hanley saw something in a McDonald’s parking lot. It was small, black-and-white and

furry.

“And there was a something on its head,” said one local guy. “The thing was just running in circles.”

The lump of fur was a skunk with a 16-ounce paper cup stuck on its head. And the animal was in distress.

Officer Hanley’s training kicked in. He approached the skunk cautiously, and asked for proof of insurance. The animal was wandering blindly in circles, tail held high, ready to release the Odor of Death.

When Hanley saw his chance, he acted. He crouched into a navy

SEAL stance, yanked the paper cup from the skunk’s head, then leapt backward, achieving an incredible distance of nearly 17 feet.

The skunk scurried into the woods. A good time was had by all.

One local onlooker remarked, “Sure makes you feel grateful, knowing they’re out there, doing their jobs. The police, I mean. Not the skunks.”

While I write this, the news is blaring in the other room. There are reports of murders, destruction and illness galore. It is enough to make a grown man weep.

But this world is more than the horror you see in the headlines. Sure, it’s a mess. But it’s more than death, hatred, riots, fires, hurricanes, diseases and angry people in three-piece suits.

People are good. I don’t care what you’ve heard. Ours is a planet full of exceptional people. Those who, even though they’re dog tired and overworked, will gladly give up precious hours to rescue a kitten from a peril. If for no other reason than because she is a cutie wootie.

Yes she is.

LANSDON

A6 October 07, 2020

Opelika family’s life changes after wish granted

By Will Fairless Associate Editor

Exton Black is an Opelika child whose life recently had some of its constraints lifted.

“Exton has all the extra: extra machines, extra chromosomes, extra attitude,” his mother, Savannah, said.

Exton has Down Syndrome and a respiratory condition that requires his being on a ventilator and oxygen 24/7. The machinery his unique group of diagnoses requires limits how far the Blacks can go on trips. “[The machines] are huge, and they are loud, and they are not travel-friendly,” Savannah said. “ The Make-A-Wish Foundation had to do some extra work to grant a wish of Exton’s.

Because he is nonverbal, his case presented the added preliminary challenge of discovering what his wish was.

“Make-A-Wish is very prepared for stuff like that. They’re really helpful for people who have a nonverbal child,” Savannah said.

Based on all of the signs from Exton and testimony from other families who had made the same wish, the Blacks asked for and received a camper that could accommodate more medical supplies for Exton. This extra storage makes trips much safer and extends the Black family’s traveling range.

“It’s a game changer. This is the gift that never ends,” Savannah said. “In the camper, we can take three times as much.”

Before the camper, Savannah would have to get prescriptions for all of the machines Exton needs, call ahead to pharmacies in the destination area to make sure they could fill those atypical prescriptions, familiarize herself with the route to the nearest hospital, make

sure there was a hospital that could accommodate Exton, and the list goes on.

“We’re so excited to say, ‘We’re just gonna pack up and go,’ just like a regular family.

We’re really tickled about it; we’re just shocked. We’re overwhelmed with the love everyone has shown us,” Savannah said.

Savannah has worked with Down Syndrome Alabama on a project that aims to increase awareness of the disorder and the people who

live with it. She applied for a proclamation day, got in touch with the Opelika mayor’s office and attended a city council meeting. Opelika recognized Oct. 1 as Down Syndrome Day. “If each city proclaims that October 1 is Down Syndrome Awareness Day and October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, that’s just more people who will be aware of Down syndrome and that individuals with Down syn-

drome are more alike than different,” said Kelly Peoples, executive director of Down Syndrome Alabama.

So far, official proclamations have been made in Alabaster, Auburn, Hoover, Mountain Brook, Opelika, Pelham, Trussville, Valley and Vestavia Hills.

To learn more about Down Syndrome Alabama, visit the organization’s website (downsyndromealabama.org).

Opelika E vents, Society, & Food

UPCOMING EVENTS OTC Presents: The Addams Family Oct. 16, 17, 23 & 24 at 7 p.m.

Oct. 17 & 24 at 2 p.m.

Busy mom Angela George balances two businesses with family life Ann Cipperly

Southern

Hospitality

A

ngela George is a busy mother of three children balancing family time with owning two businesses: O Town Ice Cream Shop on Second Avenue in Opelika and at Midtown in Auburn, with her husband Chris. The COVID-19 pandemic has made operating a business more complicated and stressful, as well as changing family life. Angela went back to her roots of cooking meals from scratch at home.

The Georges opened the first O Town Ice Cream Shop on a cold January day in 2016 in downtown Opelika on Railroad Avenue.

In 2018, the business moved to Second

Avenue. The second location at Midtown opened this summer.

Along with ice cream, a lunch menu is offered with sandwiches and a soup of the day.

When Angela was 15 years old, her family moved from West Warwick, R.I. to Opelika in order for her mother, Amanda Venafro, to accept a physical therapist position. The family was immediately smitten with the area.

“Little did we know that Alabama would become our home base,” Angela said. “We loved it.”

When Angela graduated from Opelika High School, she received a theater scholarship to Southern Union. A week before classes

started, Angela began to feel like she was going in the wrong direction.

Her mother suggested she attend the Montgomery Massage School, saying it would only take seven months.

It would allow her to have a skill to work part-time if she decided to go to college.

After graduating, Angela enjoyed the work, contracting with local day spas.

When she met Chris, it was love at first sight.

Chris was a co-owner of APR until 2008.

He went to work at IMGlive and was a DJ and MC at NASCAR and live events for Coca Cola.

When Angela’s mother passed away suddenly in 2012, it was

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Angela George is a busy mom balancing family life and two businesses, O Town Ice Cream Shop in Opelika and at Midtown in Auburn. Angela is pictured with her husband Chris and their three children, Sophia, Stella and Samuel.

a difficult time. Chris, who is from Atlanta, had a job opportunity in Atlanta. They decided to make the move with their three children, Sophia, Stella and Samuel.

“When we got there,” Angela said. "We

realized how much we loved Opelika. I told God if there was any way to get us back, I would embrace the community.”

While she missed Opelika, Angela is thankful for the time

in Atlanta as it led her to know she wanted to open an ice cream shop.

On weekends the family visited historic districts around Atlanta and found ice cream shops for the children.

See CIPPERLY, page A9

Gogue Performing Arts Center to Auburn and Opelika parks and present GPAC LIVE: Alabama Artists recreation departments announce Series beginning in October adjusted Halloween events Free livestream concerts to feature John Paul White, Elley Duhé and Eric Essix

Courtesy of the Gogue

The Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center at Auburn University will livestream a series of three virtual concerts by some of Alabama’s most renowned and

talented musicians this fall.

Featuring performances by John Paul White, Elley Duhé and Eric Essix, the GPAC LIVE: Alabama Artists Series is the Gogue Center’s latest

virtual programming initiative to bring live performing arts events directly to audiences in the comfort of their homes.

All three concerts will be broadcast live See ARTS, page A12

Does the election have you concerned?

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William Cole Operations Manager

By Will Fairless Associated Editor The Opelika Parks and Recreation Department announced at the end of September these changes to the following events: Fall Movie in the Park (formerly Eerie Express) Friday, Oct. 9

No have train rides around the park.

No concessions. Visitors must bring their own food/beverages.

Family circles will be marked (6 feet apart from each other); families must stay in their circles unless visiting the restroom.

Masks are not required unless you are standing

within 6 feet of a person outside of your household. Opelika Parks and Recreation recommends bringing a mask to protect yourself and others while walking through the park and visiting the restroom.

Fright Night at the Villa Friday, Oct. 16 See HALLOWEEN, page A9

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A9 October 07, 2020

HALLOWEEN>>

FROM A7

No concessions. Visitors must bring their own food/ beverages.

Family circles will be marked (6 feet apart from each other); families must stay in their circles unless visiting the restroom.

Masks are not required unless you are standing within 6 feet of a person outside of your household.

We recommend bringing a mask to protect yourself and others while walking through the park and visiting the restroom.

Great Pumpkin Splash Friday, Oct. 16 Registration will be limited.

Lifeguards will direct the flow of traffic to ensure social distancing is adhered to at all times.

Children will take turns entering the pool and picking pumpkins.

Children waiting to enter the pool will be spaced 6 feet apart on the bleachers and on the pool deck.

Pumpkin decorating will take place in the bleachers, 6 feet apart.

No free swim following.

Locker rooms are CLOSED. Lifeguards and staff will be on hand to provide continuous cleaning of high touch surfaces.

Tour de Fright Friday, Oct. 30 Bike lights will be given out as you enter the parking lot. Please fasten them to your bike at your vehicle.

Upon arrival please unload your bikes and follow directional signs to the trail.

Please give others space on the trail.

CIPPERLY>>

FROM A7

One weekend they visited Covington, Georgia, where they discovered a handsome ice cream shop with rocking chairs outside.

Angela knew then she wanted to return to Opelika and open an ice cream shop.

“Within a month,” she said, "The gates opened for us to move back.” Angela and the children returned to Opelika in July 2013, and Chris came back in October.

In the spring of 2015, Angela and Chris met with the creamery and asked if they could name their chocolate ice cream Choo Choo Chocolate and the banana ice Chunky Monkey Park, sharing the history of the names.

“The creamery thought it was a brilliant idea to embrace the community with ice cream," Angela said. “They have been wonderful to us and have let us create custom flavors.”

To test the Opelika market for ice cream, they started with a cart. The first outing was a Main Street

Please only go around the trail one time.

No check in table. No apple cider.

The Auburn Parks and Recreation department released the following statement in September: “Are you ready for a spooky Halloween parade?

In order to adhere to COVID-19 guidelines, the City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Department will host a Drive Thru Trick or Treat in lieu of Downtown Trick or Treat this year. Grab your best costumes and all members of your household. The event will take place on Oct. 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Auburn Parks and Recreation Complex (235 Opelika Road). We are asking that members of the same household ride together.

“Participants must arrive in their vehicles at the Drake Avenue entrance and will then be directed around the Auburn Parks and Recreation Complex to get treats from City of Auburn employees, firefighters and members of the community. We are encouraging participants to dress up in their best Halloween costumes and decorate their vehicles in the spookiest way."

“The week before the event, a map and directions will be posted on the City of Auburn website, Facebook and Instagram (@ CityofAuburnAl). Individuals must remain in their vehicles at all times for this FREE outside public event."

For more information regarding this event, contact Sarah Cook at scook@ aubuarnalabama.org or 334-501-2948.”

First Friday event.

The Red Clay Brewing Company allowed them to place the cart outside their business where they made root beer floats.

“The community saw how hard Chris was working pushing that cart around on hot days and being at the farmers’ market every week,” Angela said. “Our kids would be playing in the fountain.”

The Georges talked to the owner of a building on Railroad Avenue in downtown Opelika that was being restored.

They had a vision of how it should look.

They spent many nights working at the shop to get it ready.

O Town Ice Cream opened its doors Jan. 24, 2016, with more than 340 people walking in the door in four hours.

Over time, though, the overhead in the downtown location became a struggle.

In the summer of 2017, Angela and Chris drove past the former location of Bubba’s Medicine Shoppe on Second Avenue and thought it looked promising as a new site for their ice cream business.

They discussed the

idea with the owners, Jeff Jerkins and Craig Davis, who were also selling Italian ice and had a food truck.

Angela thought since they had the O Town shop and a cart, they could merge the Scoops Real Italian Ice and become one business to serve the community. Jeff and Craig became their partners.

The building was gutted and remodeled. Before they opened, Angela asked a teacher at Morris Avenue School to have her students draw pictures of where they think the monkeys went after they left the monkey park. The children were creative in their painting with monkeys in space, eating ice cream at the courthouse and playing football. She only had 13 spots for the artwork, which was laminated and framed.

Angela and Chris moved the large photo of the train at the park from the previous location to cover one wall. The tables were handmade, while the booths were refurbished from an old Captain D’s.

O Town opened at its new location in January 2018. New

ice cream flavors were added, as well as sundaes, featuring brownies with a choice of ice cream.

The lunch menu was expanded.

When COVID-19 hit, everything changed. “People realized that we have a drive through,” she said, "And I think that helped save our business. It got a lot of people coming out since we did no-contact, social distance business.

It was something to take your kids to do for a treat during this uncertain time.”

Angela’s massage work was put on hold. Chris did the grocery shopping.

“The virus ran us back to our roots, having to use what we had at home,” Angela said. “When the kids were home, she went back to old ways of cooking. We realized how much we went out to dinner because we were so busy and did a lot of take out.

“We joked around about it, and said it was ‘Pantry Surprise.’”

Angela stocked up on canned beans and vegetables, along with 10-pound bags of all-purpose flour and self-rising flour.

She began making homemade biscuit, and taught Samuel how to make them.

“We have a flour bowl now,” she said.

“The downfall of it is how much weight we have gained. Everyone wants homemade biscuits.”

Chris has been grilling at home, cooking pork chops, chicken and steak to have enough to last a few days.

Angela prepares spaghetti and meatballs often, which is Samuel’s favorite meal. Along with Italian dishes, she has been cooking a lot of Mexican. Her mother was Mexican and would make tortillas. Angela finds Mexican food has layers of flavors and is filling.

Casseroles have been comfort food that will feed everyone for two days.

“If you have corn, beans and pasta in your pantry,” she said, "you can always come up with some dishes. You can use Rotel on pasta. If you have tortillas and beans, you can make nachos.

“We have been baking dump cakes on Sundays. Keep cake mix, canned pineapple and canned

fruit pie filling in the pantry for making an easy dessert.”

Currently at O Town in Opelika, the drive through is open and people can come inside to order.

They have not resumed indoor dining because the area for dining is small. They put all the tables outside. People can dine at tables under the pavilion or at the rocking chairs. They also have picnic tables with new umbrellas.

Along with ice cream, they are still serving lunch and have started back the soup of the day.

The children are back in school.

Sophia is a student at Opelika High School, Stella is an 8th grader at the middle school, and Samuel attends Morris Avenue School.

Angela is thankful to call Opelika home.

“After the community pulled together for the storm victims,” she said. "I remembered why God has us in Opelika. We love this community. We want to live here and raise our children here. It has been an experience that sometimes doors close to open doors that are better.”

A10 October 07, 2020

RECIPES MANDA’S MIGAS 4 corn tortillas cut into 1-inch strips 2-3 eggs 3 Tbsp. oil Pat of butter Heat oil in frying pan.

Put in cut corn tortillas and flip around until barely brown and lightly toasted. Remove from heat.

Mix eggs together.

Put pan back on heat and pour eggs in with tortillas.

Remove from heat when desired egg consistency is achieved.

Remove from pan and serve from pan. Add salt and pepper to taste.

You can also add salsa, cheese, cooked chorizo, peppers and onions. I like mine plain!

RAVIOLI AND FRESH SPINACH BAKE Two 10-oz. pkg. fresh cheese ravioli (found in refrigerated section of grocery store) 4 cups fresh baby spinach 24 oz. jar vodka pasta sauce 5 oz. jar pesto 2 cups grated mozzarella Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Cook pasta in boiling water for slightly less time than stated on the package directions.

Drain and place in a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish. Top with the spinach.

Pour vodka sauce over spinach and pasta.

Dot pesto all over the sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella on top. Bake until the sauce is bubbling and edges are brown, about 25 minutes, then serve.

CHICKEN ENCHILADA CASSEROLE 1 Tbsp. olive oil 1 medium white onion, peeled and diced 1 large red bell pepper, cored and diced 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles 2 (15 oz.) cans beans, rinsed and drained (I used one can pinto, one can black beans.)

1 (8 oz.) can whole kernel corn, drained

3 cups (about 1.5 lb.) shredded or diced cooked chicken 3 cups red enchilada sauce, homemade or store-bought, divided 12 corn tortillas, halved 3 cups shredded Monterrey Jack or Mexican blend cheese Toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, diced red onion, thinly sliced green onion and/or diced avocado Heat oven to 375.

Mist a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray; set aside.

Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat.

Add onion and bell pepper and sauté for 6 to 7 minutes, or until softened. Stir in diced green chiles, beans, corn, chicken and 2 cups enchilada sauce, and stir to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.

Pour about 1/2 cup of the remaining enchilada sauce in baking dish and spread until the bottom of the dish is evenly coated. Top with a layer of about 8 tortilla halves, so that the entire dish is covered.

Top evenly with 1/3 of the chicken mixture, followed by 1/3 of the cheese.

Repeat with another layer of tortillas, chicken mixture, and cheese, followed by a final layer of tortillas, chicken mixture, remaining 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce and cheese.

Cover the pan with aluminum foil, then bake for 20 minutes.

Remove pan and remove aluminum foil. Bake for 10 more minutes, until cheese is thoroughly melted.

Remove from oven and serve warm, garnished with your desired toppings.

EASY BOLOGNESE SAUCE FOR PASTA 1/2 cup olive Oil 1 1/2 cups grated carrots 1 large red onion, diced

2 lbs. ground beef 2 Tbsp. dried oregano 2 Tbsp. dried basil flakes 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste 5 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup (to 2 cups) red wine 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire 2 cans (28 oz.) whole tomatoes 1 cup milk Salt and pepper, to taste Fresh Parmesan cheese Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium heat.

Add grated carrots and onions and cook for a few minutes. Make a well in the center of mixture, then add ground beef. Cook for a few minutes until brown, gradually stirring it into the carrot mixture.

Add oregano and basil. When the meat is browned and combined with other ingredients, make another well. Add tomato paste and heat. Add garlic and stir to combine.

Make a well in the center of the mixture and add red wine. Stir together. Add Worcestershire and stir. Add canned tomatoes. Finally, pour in milk, stir and let simmer for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Serve with pasta and a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese.

Makes 8 servings.

GLUTEN FREE EGGPLANT PARMESAN 1 ½ cups gluten-free breadcrumbs (such as Hodgson Mill®) 1 eggplant, peeled into long strips 1/4inch thick 2 eggs, beaten ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided 2 Tbsp. olive oil 1 (16 oz.) jar spaghetti sauce, divided 1 (8 oz.) pkg. shredded mozzarella cheese, divided 1 pinch dried basil Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl.

Dip eggplant into eggs; coat with

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

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

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

Stay well friends and thanks for shopping with us!

We wouldnʼt be here without you all!

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

gluten-free breadcrumbs. Place in a single layer on prepared baking sheet; lightly sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 6 minutes; remove from oven. Flip eggplant with a spatula; brush with olive oil.

Bake until golden brown, about 6 minutes. Remove from oven; reduce heat to 350 degrees.

Spread enough spaghetti sauce into a 7 x 11-inch baking pan to cover the bottom; layer on some of the eggplant slices. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over eggplant; top with Parmesan cheese. Repeat layering sauce, eggplant, mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, in this order. Top with basil.

Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden, about 25 minutes.

BLUEBERRY DUMP CAKE I keep a variety of pie filling on hand to make this cake.

21-oz. can blueberry pie filling (other fruit pie fillings can be used) 15-oz. can crushed pineapple 1 (18 oz.) box white cake mix 1 1/2 sticks butter Ice cream or whipped cream to top cake Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Dump the blueberry pie filling and crushed pineapple into a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Stir together. Sprinkle cake mix over top of pie filling and pineapple. Slice butter into Tbsp. and distribute evenly over top of the cake mix.

Bake until the tops are brown and bubbly for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until top is brown and bubbly. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream, if

desired.

FAVORITE FRIED GREEN TOMATOES 2 large eggs 2 Tbsp. water 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup yellow cornmeal Sea salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste 2 pounds green tomatoes, sliced 1 cup canola oil for frying, or as needed Line a baking sheet with waxed paper.

Beat eggs and water in a shallow bowl. Place flour and cornmeal in 2 separate shallow bowls. Season cornmeal with salt and pepper.

Dip each tomato slice into flour, then dip into egg mixture. Press tomato into cornmeal mixture, shaking off excess. Transfer tomato to prepared baking sheet.

Repeat with remaining tomato slices, arranging tomatoes in a single layer.

Heat about 1/4 inch canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat until oil begins to shimmer. Fry tomatoes in batches until golden and crisp, 3 to 4 minutes per side.

Drain on paper towel-lined plates.

Repeat with remaining tomatoes.

HOMEMADE BISCUITS 4 cups self-rising flour, sifted 1 ½ cups buttermilk ¼ cup Crisco or lard Preheat oven to 500 degrees.

Lightly grease a baking pan or skillet with lard or Crisco.

Fill a sifter with flour, about 4 cups.

Sift flour into a large wide bowl.

Make a well in the middle of the flour with your hand.

Add lard.

Add buttermilk.

Squish the Crisco

and buttermilk together with your fingers until shortening is in small clumps.

Place fingers straight down into the center of the bowl and start making small circles.

Continue to stir, in small circles, while gradually working in flour from the sides of the bowl.

You will work in most of the flour but probably not all it.

Sprinkle dough ball with more flour and fold dough over on top of itself a time or two.

Knead the dough only a few times until it is fairly smooth then shape into a rectangle.

Clean any dough off your hands before proceeding.

Flour both hands prior to starting to shape and form the biscuits.

Use your fingers and pinch off a section of dough just a little larger than a golf ball.

Roll this ball in the palms of your hands to smooth it out using slightly firm pressure at first and then lighter pressure as it becomes a bit sticky again. Try not to overwork the dough at this point.

Drop the ball back in the flour and coat lightly with flour.

Roll the ball in the palm of your hand another second or two and then flatten it like a hamburger patty.

Place the biscuit dough on your greased baking sheet or in a cast iron skillet.

Sides should be touching for a softer biscuit edge or separated one inch for a crispy edge.

Repeat process until the dough is used or your skillet is filled.

Use the back of your fingers and gently press down on each biscuit.

Place the pan of biscuits in the preheated oven and bake 8 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned on top.

Use caution because the pans are hot as you remove the baked biscuits from the oven.

Brush melted butter on top of each biscuit.

Cover biscuits with a clean towel and let rest for a few minutes prior to serving.

Serve while still warm and enjoy.

A11 October 07, 2020

I

Dealing with the Detested

srael detested the manna. That’s what they told God in Numbers 21:5. You remember they had been given the food in response to their grumbling (Exodus 16).

After a while, they became bored with the blessing (Numbers 11), and then they reached the point of detesting it. As with all ungrateful people, they didn’t realize their response was an indictment of them rather than the manna.

So God sent them snakes—poisonous ones.

They had complained about the bread from heaven, so He gave them something from the wilderness. They took issue with the manna that was to preserve their lives, so they experienced the bite of serpents that took the lives of some and left others in great agony and distress (Allen). They

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

Sept. 13, 2020 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon and Lunch will follow Pastor: Dr Gary Walker – Praise and Worship: Doug Long • Church of Christ at Cunningham - meeting at their building at 9:30 a.m. for Bible class, 10:30 a.m. for worship, 5 p.m. for evening worship and 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays.

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

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

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

Wednesday worship is at 6:30 p.m.

Services are streamed live on Facebook– the page is UGBChurch • First Baptist Church Opelika The following are held in-per­son and online on Sundays.

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

confessed their sin to Moses and asked him to pray for them and he did.

God mercifully answered Moses’ prayer—but His answer was unlike anything anyone had anticipated.

He told Moses to fashion a snake out of bronze and put it up on a pole. Whoever looked at the snake would be healed.

Yahweh could have saved Israel any number of ways—the simplest being to just to say the word and it would be done. But He chose to heal them in a highly unique way.

That He did so encourages us to explore His choice in order to gain insight into His ways. For example, looking at a snake on a pole made Israel confront their sin. It would remind them of the bite they had suffered, which would remind them of the complaining that had

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

brought it about. Complaining was something that had plagued them since they left Egypt. They lapsed into it whenever their circumstances became difficult. Looking at the snake was a painful reminder of what they had brought upon themselves.

We've all known that feeling, haven't we?

We also see God’s perfect sense of justice. Complaining is a spiritual toxin. By

sending poisonous snakes to those who had engaged in it, the punishment fit the crime.

Finally, there’s the truth that God saved them through something detestable. Snakes were cursed, unclean and unloved since the time of Genesis 3. That God used them to punish Israel is not surprising. That He chose to use one to save Israel is. The point in the text seems to be that whether it was detested manna or a detested snake, God could use it to work the nation’s salvation. Israel should learn to trust and praise rather than grumble and complain.

But it doesn't stop there.

The snake wasn’t used merely to save Israel, it was used to pre-figure Jesus (John 3:14-15). God used a detestable snake to point people to His Son? He did!

In the first century, the cross was a detestable way to die

(1 Corinthians 1:27-29). It was in the same category as snakes. And God used the death of Jesus on a detested cross to provide the basis for the world to be reconciled to Him. The message from Numbers 21 is that God is with us. He is in control. And He is good—right down to knowing exactly how to deal with the detested.

As we journey through our wilderness, there are things we can find to detest as well. A lot of people put a lot of time and energy into doing just that. This episode teaches us that we are better off focusing on our Father.

He is more powerful than whatever we detest, and He knows exactly how to use it for glory.

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

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

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

"... I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight," declares the LORD.

— Jeremiah 9:24 APOSTOLIC HOLINESS God’s House of Prayers Holiness Church 301 HIghland Ave., Opelika 334-749-9672 True Deliverance Holiness Church 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700 BAPTIST Beulah Baptist Church 5500 Lee Road 270, Valley 334-705-0538 Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 128 East Glenn Ave., Auburn 334-887-8506

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

Church Directory

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

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

Cunningham 2660 Cunningham Dr., Opelika 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St., Opelika 334-745-5181 COMMUNITY OUTREACH Changing Hearts of Destiny Ministry 936 N. Donahue Dr., Auburn 334-502-4700 METHODIST Auburn United Methodist Church 137 South Gay St., Auburn 334-826-8800 Beulah United Methodist

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

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

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

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

A12 October 07, 2020

OBITUARIES Stanley Joseph Zenisek Jr. Stanley Joseph Zenisek Jr. passed away on Sept.

28, 2020 in Opelika, AL. Visitation was held on Oct. 2 from noon until 2 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika, Alabama with funeral services immediately following at 2 p.m., Brother William David Jones officiating.

Stan was born in Chagrin Falls, Ohio to Stanley Joseph Zenisek Sr. and Laura Eileen Lannver of Chagrin Falls. He attended Newbury High School.

He married Priscilla Regina Hall on Sept. 12, 1961 in Crawford, AL. Stan worked in construction and was a natural carpenter. He served in the Ohio State National Guard and the United States Navy where he was a Gunners Mate Third Class. He also did Blueprint Reading and Sketch. Stan enjoyed bowling, fishing, shrimping/crabbing, piddling around, and entertaining with his family and friends.

Stan is preceded in death by his father Stanley Joseph Zenisek Sr. and mother Laura Eileen Lannver. Stan is survived by his beloved wife Priscilla Regina Zenisek, daughter Darlene Gullatte Roberts (Michael), son Stanley Paul Zenisek, daughter Phyllis Kathleen Patterson (Mike), daughter Melinda Regina Zenisek; grandchildren: Steven Randolph (Chelsea), Joseph Randolph, Josh Patterson, Jade Randolph, Ashlee Patterson, Samual Gullatte, Kathryn Gullatte, Finn Adams, Sydney Beville, and Ashlyn Beville; great grandchildren: Hunter Randolph, Maria Gullatte, and Eleanor Randolph; brother Kirk Zenisek, sisters: Sonya Krejci and Charlene Zenisek Pruitt.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to an organization of your choice in his name.

Timothy “Tim” Michael Vallely Timothy “Tim” Michael Vallely, 62, of Birmingham Alabama, passed away on Sept. 27, 2020, at 7:08 a.m., peacefully at Compassus Auburn Bethany House. His wife, Anne Vallely and daughter, Brittany Vallely, cared for him and stood by his side until his very last moments of life.

Tim began making his impact on the world when he was born on Jan. 7, 1958. He was the seventh child of the late Winifred Vincent Allen Vallely and the late Bernard Xavier Vallely. The Vallely family moved from Birmingham to Opelika when Tim was at a very young age, but Tim made Opelika his true home. He worked for his education, earned his dream career, and created a family of three all in Opelika.

Tim was a proud Opelika police officer, who loved his community. He played many parts while working on the force such as D.A.R.E. Officer, S.W.A.T member, and crime prevention officer.

He received his retirement after working 25 years for the department. Tim was also an Auburn University graduate and member of St. Michael Archangel Catholic Church in Auburn—you could always find Tim supporting the tiger’s on game days and was devoted to attending Mass every weekend when he could.

Tim is now reunited with his late family members: his parents, Winnie Vallely and Bernard Vallely; sisters, Loretta Ann Vallely and Carol Ann Shoemaker; and brothers, Hugh Joseph Vallely and Bernard Luke Vallely. Remaining siblings include: sisters, Jerry Barber (Opelika, Alabama) and Mary Badskey (Montgomery, Alabama); and brothers, Dan Vallely (Huntsville, Alabama) and

ARTS

GPAC LIVE series, we can continue to present incredible performances live from our very own stage—all while taking necessary safety and public health measures into consideration.”

Since its pivot to online programming last spring, the Gogue Center has broadcast a variety of performing arts content, from virtual concerts like GPAC LIVE and CMS: Front Row to the center’s interactive Talkback Thursday conversation series airing on Facebook and YouTube. In addition to their live performances at the Gogue Center, all three musicians featured in the Alabama Artists Series will participate in a Talkback Thursday interview before their concert appearance

>>

FROM A7

from the Gogue Center at 7:30 p.m. (Central) on their respective performance dates: White, Thursday, Oct. 29; Duhé, Thursday, Nov. 19; and Essix, Thursday, Dec. 3. Concerts will take place on the Sergio Marentes Stage in the Walter Stanley and Virginia Kathryne Evans Woltosz Theatre. All GPAC LIVE performances are free to view with registration.

“In the era of physical distancing, performing arts venues everywhere have had to innovate in order to share and celebrate the arts with audiences and communities,” said Amy Miller, Gogue Center director of programming and education. “With our

Joe Vallely (Huntsville, Alabama). In addition, Tim was also loved by his many in-laws, nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Tim held many titles and came from a wide-ranging family. However, his nuclear family with his wife and daughter who will always remember him as their Superman. The man who protected and fought for his health for as long as he could.

A visitation and committal service were held on Oct. 3 at Saint Michael’s Church. Visitation started at 12:30 p.m., followed

by Mass at 2 p.m. Rev. MSGR. Michael L. Farmer officiated and Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory is directed.

Interment took place at Garden Hills Cemetery.

with pastors, Bill Bryan, Andrew Bryan, Debbie Bryan officiating. Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery

Symantha “Sam” O’Hara Symantha “Sam” O’Hara of Opelika was born on May 19, 1965 in Opelika and passed away at Bethany House in Auburn on Sept. 30, 2020. She was 55 years old.

She attended Old Path Assembly of God now the Bridge Church. She taught Christian School at Old Path Christian School.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Nettie Joyner Stripling and Sonny Stripling.

She is survived by her loving husband of 33 years, Keith O’Hara; children, Jonathan Stripling (Taylor), Brandi Avila (Jonathan); granddaughter, Jayden Avila; sister, Tammy Musick (Bobby); brother, Sonny Stripling, Jr. as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members.

Visitation was held on Oct. 1, 2020 in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home from 5:00 until 7 p.m.

A Funeral service was held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Oct. 2, 2020 at 11 a.m.

Ronnie Wayne Meyers Ronnie Wayne Meyers passed away on Oct. 2, 2020 after a long and courageous fight against several complications derived from COVID-19.

He was born on July 5, 1948 in Nacona, Texas to Norris and Kleita Meyers.

Ron was a graduate of the University of Texas School of Pharmacy located in Austin, Texas in December 1971 and became a lifelong dedicated Texas Longhorn.

After graduating his first employment as a pharmacist was at Western's Pharmacy in San Angelo, Texas where his son, Jeff, was born. Soon the family moved to the Dallas- Fort Worth metroplex area where he worked as a pharmacist at Skillern’s, Revco, Merck-Medco, and Express Scripts where he was the Lead Pharmacist in Drug Utilization Research until he retired in 2014 after 43 years of practicing pharmacy.

Ron enjoyed landscaping, traveling, playing golf, spending time with the grandchildren, and watching all three grandsons playing different sports including football, soccer, and baseball.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Lynda; his son, Jeff and his daughter-in-law Traci Meyers, and three grandsons Marshall, George, and Jonathan Meyers; his brother Tim Meyers; and his sister Brenda Holden.

Ron has always been very active in his local church serving as a deacon, on the baptism committee, director of several Sunday School classes, and an usher. For the past three years he has enjoyed being a faithful member at First

and present livestreamed K-12 school performances and virtual master classes with Auburn students.

Miller sees the Alabama Artists Series as an excellent way for the Gogue Center to further amplify its commitment to celebrating the incredible artistic diversity found in Alabama’s different geographic regions.

“Just like our Kennedy Center Couch Concert in June, these three upcoming concerts highlight the breadth of musical artistry that exists throughout our state,” Miller said.

White is an acclaimed singer-songwriter who lives in Florence, Alabama.

He has cultivated a two-decade music career in Nashville, first as a solo artist

and from 2008 to 2014 as a member of the Grammy Award-winning duo The Civil Wars. In 2016, White relaunched his solo career with the album “Beulah” and last year released “The Hurting Kind,” a tribute album to the country music of his childhood. He is a co- founder of the Florence/Muscle Shoals-based Single Lock Records label and regularly tours with other Single Lock artists.

Duhé, born near Mobile, grew up on the Gulf Coast in a family of musicians with ties to the New Orleans music scene. Since 2016, she has released a series of singles, including the pop ballad “Happy Now,” as well as the 2018 EP “Dragon Mentality.” Her collaborations include

Baptist Church of Opelika, Alabama where his son, Jeff, is the senior pastor.

Funeral services for Mr. Meyers were held at 11 a.m. Oct. 6, 2020 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home with Dr. Jeff Meyers officiating. Visitation was on Oct. 5, 2020 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home beginning at 6 p.m. A second visitation was held one hour before the service on Tuesday at 10 a.m.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed Donna S. “Ninnie” Griffin Donna S. “Ninnie” Griffin of Oak Bowery, Alabama was born to the late Mellie Louise Woodham and the late Paul Silas Simmons on May 4, 1949 in Phenix City, Alabama and passed into the hands of our Lord on Oct. 3, 2020.

Before retiring, Donna worked in information management systems training and consulting. Prior to this, she worked at Ampex Corp. in Opelika and at Auburn University.

Donna graduated from Opelika High School Class of ’67.

Donna was a devoted wife of 30 years married to Michael L. Griffin. They lived in Oak Bowery, Alabama.

Donna loved nothing more than to spend time providing for her family with unending love and kindness. Donna was passionate about researching family history. She devoted countless hours to genealogy helping family, and friends explore and document their ancestors.

Donna became a member of the UDC as a result of her family history research. Donna loved her country and what the American Flag stood for.

Donna loved her family reunions, taking road trips researching and exploring all along the way. Donna work with Tarro, Cool & Dre and the producer Zedd on “Happy Now.” Essix is a Birmingham-based contemporary jazz artist who has released 25 fulllength albums over a prolific three-decade career. His latest effort, “Songs From The Deep,” contains nine tracks all written, arranged and produced

by Essix that revisit the favorite theme of his Birmingham, Southern roots. For Essix, it is soul-revealing music that continues to chart his journey to reconcile love for his homeland with its tumultuous history.

All GPAC LIVE performances are presented live from the Gogue Center and are free to view with registration.

Each performance begins at 7:30 p.m. (Cen-

and Mike enjoyed spending family time together at their Lake Martin home with their family enjoying lake burgers, floating in the water, and sunset boat cruises. They especially loved vacationing together at their favorite place in Kauai, HI and going to St. Patrick’s Day parades across the country. Donna lived life to the fullest, always putting the wants and needs of others ahead of her own. Donna was talented in many ways and had a very creative mind. Ninnie always seemed to know the right thing to do and was the guiding light for her family. Donna inspired us all to be better people loving and caring for family first and foremost in our daily lives. Although Ninnie has departed this world, her spirit lives on in our daily lives, watching over and loving all of us forever.

Donna was preceded in death by Jerry Alan Simpkins; father-in-law, Francis L. Griffin; and beloved pet dog, Norm.

Donna is survived by her husband of 30 years, Michael L. “Pap” Griffin; sons, Robert Paul Simpkins, and Stephen “Alan” Simpkins; grandchildren, Natalie Simpkins, Mallory Simpkins, Marin Simpkins, Lance Dennis, Rachel Randall (Thomas); beloved pet dog, Ash; mother-in-law, Anne B. Griffin, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members.

Visitation was held on Oct. 6, 2020 in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home from 5 to 7 p.m.

Graveside service will be held at Garden Hills Cemetery on Oct. 7, 2020 at 11 a.m. with Minister Jim Pierce officiating.

Flowers will be accepted or memorial donations be made to: Opelika Grows “O Grows” P.O. Box 165 Opelika, AL 36803 tral). For additional information, contact the Gogue Center box office at 334.844.TIXS (8497) or gpactickets@auburn.edu. To register, visit goguecentertickets.auburn. edu.

GPAC LIVE: Alabama Artists Series John Paul White Thursday, Oct. 29, 2020 7:30 p.m. (Central) Register at aub.ie/ gpaclive-102920 Elley Duhé Thursday, Nov. 19, 2020 7:30 p.m. (Central) Register at aub.ie/ gpaclive-111920 Eric Essix Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020 7:30 p.m. (Central) Register at aub.ie/ gpaclive-120320

A13 October 07, 2020

EAMC cuts ribbon at new cardiovascular center Courtesy of EAMC

Last Friday, EAMC officials held a ribbon cutting at its new Pinnacle Cardiovascular Associates building. EAMC President/CEO Laura Grill, Michael Williams, M.D. and Opelika Mayor Gary

Fuller shared words with those gathered and then the Opelika Chamber of Commerce helped make it official with a ribbon cutting. Pinnacle, which opened a day earlier, has 35,000 square feet and features 24 exam rooms, 12 rooms dedicated to imaging, and office space for 15 providers. The

address for the facility is 2601 Village Professional Drive and their phone number is 334-5285400. Located on the same road, Pinnacle and the Spencer Cancer Center were both designed by Doug McCurry and built by Bailey-Harris Construction.

EAMC resumes limited visitation Courtesy of EAMC On Wednesday, Governor Kay Ivey updated the Safer-at-Home orders for Alabama. Her announcement included a call for hospitals to allow one visitor or caregiver per patient starting October 2, subject to reasonable restrictions. EAMC has established color-coded levels that will be subject to change based on the prevalence of COVID-19 cases in Lee County and/or on the number of patients currently hospitalized with COVID-19. Based on those criteria, EAMC will begin visitation at 12 noon Friday using the “Orange Level” guidelines for nonCOVID patients.

“We’ve had a team working on visitor guidelines for about a

couple of weeks now and planned to phase it in so as to help it go smoothly,” said John Atkinson, EAMC spokesman. “However, the order Wednesday caused us to fast-track the guidelines. We asked that people please read our guidelines carefully so that they understand the restrictions under the current color and what will be required of them based on the area the patient is in. We also ask that people are patient with our staff members during the screening process.”

Atkinson said updates will be provided over the next few days as the hospital works to safely re-start visitation protocols while still involved in the COVID-19 pandemic. He said that changes will likely take place until the process is

running smoothly.

Referring to visitation of patients in the hospital, Atkinson said there are three things that visitors should remember that will speed the screening/check-in process. “A visitor must have a current photo ID so that we can scan them into the system and provide them with a visitor badge,” he said.

“They must also wear a mask upon entry and throughout their visit.

Lastly, the room number of the patient they will be visiting is needed during check-in, so knowing that ahead of time will help prevent a delay.”

Visitors are also reminded that they should not visit if they have any COVID-19 symptoms.

These include: fever (must be less than 99.0 to visit), chills, shortness

Visitation is restricted for patients with COVID-19. Our exceptions are: COMPASSION VISIT

(end of life or special circumstances)

LOCATION

•

These guidelines exist for the safety of our patients, employees, caregivers and community, and may change at our discretion based on changing guidance, internal and external information, and federal and local mandates. Thank you for your understanding.

Each waiting room within EAMC’s campuses and facilities has been evaluated for proper social distancing capabilities. Waiting rooms that have constraints that do not allow for proper social distancing will be closed to visitors.

Following your visit, please “check out” of our screening system in case the patient has a second visitor scheduled to visit them. This can be done through a text message or a monitor.

1 parent / guardian

PASTOR/CLERGY

YELLOW & ORANGE: by request RED: compassion visits only

YELLOW LEVEL

ORANGE LEVEL

RED LEVEL

(5-10% prevalence of COVID-19 cases in Lee County or 20-40 patients with COVID-19)

HOSPITALIZED INPATIENT UNITS

1 visitor at a time 2 total visitors per day(1)

1 visitor per day

CRITICAL CARE / ICU

1 visitor on admission 2 visitors during visiting hours

1 visitor on admission 1 visitor during visiting hours

EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

1 visitor once patient is settled in room.

1 visitor once patient is settled in room.

OUTPATIENT SURGERY

Once patient is settled, 1 visitor may join them in their pre-procedure room. During the procedure, the visitor will return to their car until patient pick up.

Once patient is settled, 1 visitor may join them in their preprocedure room. During the procedure, the visitor will return to their car until patient pick up.

TESTS & PROCEDURES

No visitors unless special assistance is required or recommended by provider.

1 visitor

No visitors unless special assistance is required or recommended by provider.

1 visitor

LABOR AND DELIVERY PEDIATRICS

2 visitors

1 visitor

No visitors unless special assistance is required or compassion visit exception.

No visitors unless special assistance is required or compassion visit exception.

1 visitor

2 parents/guardians

2 parents/guardians

1 parent / guardian

PASTORS/CLERGY

Visitation at patient’s request

Visitation at patient’s request

Compassion visits only

PSYCHIATRY

1 visitor as authorized by care team

No visitors unless authorized by care team

No visitors

• •

VISITOR GUIDELINES:

•

PEDIATRICS

1 visitor

(less than 5% prevalence of COVID19 cases in Lee County or less than 20 patients with COVID-19)

•

• •

LABOR AND DELIVERY

Visitation for NON-COVID Patients ***Visiting hours are 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted***

At EAMC, our mission is high-quality compassionate health care, even during a pandemic. Each day, we work diligently to protect our patients and caregivers from highly contagious diseases such as COVID-19 and influenza. Our goal is a safe and positive patient experience, and that includes allowing visitors whenever possible. Our visitation levels during this time are based on data about how diseases like COVID-19 are spread, including county and state public health information provided by the Alabama Department of Public Health and the CDC.

Upon arrival to EAMC, you will be screened for admission.

If you have a fever of 99.0 or higher (with or without other symptoms) or if you screen positive, you will be denied entry.

Visitors must have a current photo ID (license, etc.) so they can receive a visitor badge.

Visitors must wear a mask at all times. Some visitors may be asked to wear additional personal protective equipment (PPE) like gowns or gloves For people visiting inpatients, knowing the patient’s room number before arrival will help the check-in process go faster.

You will be asked to leave if you do not follow these guidelines.

EAMC-Lanier Nursing Home, Oak Park Nursing Home and the EAMC Skilled Nursing Facility will be reaching out to resident sponsors directly on Friday with the guidelines.

Visitation Levels

INPATIENT SURGERY

• •

after exposure. *These exact guidelines do not apply to long-term care facilities, but they do have a separate set of guidelines that allow for visitation. Staff members at

of breath, fatigue, body aches, headache, new loss of small or taste, sore throat, congestion, runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea.

These symptoms typically appear 2-14 days

(more than 10% prevalence of COVID-19 cases in Lee County or less than 20 patients with COVID19) No visitors unless special assistance is required or compassion visit exception.

No visitors unless special assistance is required or compassion visit exception.

No visitors unless special assistance is required or compassion visit exception.

No visitors unless special assistance is required or compassion visit exception.

All visitors are subject to screening. If a visitor is symptomatic, EAMC has the right to decline visitation at that time. Visitors must wear a mask, have their temperature taken and sanitize their hands. Visitation guidelines are subject to change if safe physical distancing is not possible.

When you cannot visit in person, we encourage virtual visitation using apps such as Facebook or Facetime. Staff will work with you to facilitate virtual visits.

Visitors will be allowed at night when special assistance is needed. ICU visits are at designated times only.

Special assistance - circumstances where a patient’s physician/care team have determined that a visitor is critical to a patient’s physical or emotional well-being.

• The patient’s physician or care team may make compassionate visit exceptions when appropriate (for example, end of life or altered mental status).

• Visitors must remain in designated areas only. Hallway travel is only permitted to and from rooms. Guest meals will be delivered as necessary.

• Visitation for patients with COVID-19 will only be allowed for compassionate exceptions or special assistance. Visitors will be screened in the Main Lobby and escorted to and from the unit. Education and assistance will be provided on appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

• During red level visitor restrictions, visitors may be allowed on non-COVID units based on ability to maintain social distance and proper precautions during visit and when entering and exiting that unit.

(1) Patients are limited to two visitors per day between 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., but only one at a time. Please do not visit a patient unless you have coordinated with the patient and the other visitor.

•

A14 October 07, 2020

COMICS

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

S

S

Oct. 13 - Lee County School Board will meet at 6 p.m.

Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports

Oct. 27 - Opelika City Schools will meet on at 4 p.m.

LaDajah Huguley crowned Homecoming Queen Courtesy of OCS Opelika High School presented its 2020 Homecoming Court

during halftime of the OHS vs. Russell County football game. The Homecoming Court included: Kennedy

On the Mark

By D. Mark Mitchell

Opelika scores 49 points on Russell County

T

he OHS football team (5-2, R-4-0) dominated RCHS (0-2, R-0-1) last Friday night 49-7 in Bulldog Stadium.

The Dawgs scored early and often, building a 49-0 lead at halftime.

The Warriors scored their only points on a 70-yard pass for a TD. The extra point made it 49-7.

Six different players scored for Opelika.

Erik Watts started the scoring with back to back TDs on a 44-yard pass from Finley and a 16-yard run for a score, both in the first quarter. Quarterback Malik Finley threw

back-to-back touchdown passes for touchdowns, a 33-yarder to Grady Bynum and a 60-yard pass to Kaden Cooper.

The last three TD’s came from a 30-yard punt return, a JD Tolbert rush of 8 yards and an 11-yard Jayvontay Conner reception from reserve QB Jackson Bates.

Place kicker Baker Rowton made all seven extra points.

Russell County scored their only points in the game in the third quarter; Quarterback Dammuon Griffey hit Damarious Strong for a See SPORTS , page B5

Courtesy of OHS

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

LaDajah Huguley, pictured above with her father, was crowned OHS Homecoming queen last Friday night during the Dawgs’ game against Russell County.

Brewer-Freshman, McKay Yountz, Sophomore, Phoebe Darcey-Junior, LaDajah Huguley-Senior, Benet Harris-Senior, Meriambi

Stroer-Senior, Lauren Landry-Junior, Aimee AlcantaraFreshman and not pictured, Susannah Couey, Sophomore.

Glenwood maintains perfect record, beat Monroe Academy 49-0

By Wil Crews sportscrews@ opelikaobserver.com

The Glenwood Gators won Friday’s non-conference game against the Monroe Academy Volunteers by a score of 49-0 thanks to big plays and senior running Kyle Robichaux, who

finished with 11 carries for 135 yards and four touchdowns.

The most impressive stat from the night: The Gators outgained the Volunteers by 227 yards (332 to 105) while running 10 fewer plays and having the ball for 11 minutes and 21 seconds less than Monroe Academy. The

Gators also committed no turnovers and forced two turnovers from the Volunteers. The win moves Glenwood to 6-0 and keeps them on top of the Region 1 standings.

The Gators offense had a rare slow start to the game, punting to Monroe Academy after a short opening drive.

However, it didn’t take long to get the unit going. On Glenwood’s second drive of the game, Robichaux would get his first touchdown of the night with a 10-yard TD run. After forcing the third successive punt from the Volunteers, See GLENWOOD, page B5

FACES benefits from recent donation of $15,000 Courtesy of Auburn City Schools

Joe Lovvorn, Alabama House District 79 Representative, presented a check for $15,000 to FACES. These funds will be used to provide continuing enrichment of 30 classroom projects across all 13 campuses within Auburn City Schools.

The Foundation for

Auburn's Continuing Enrichment in Schools (FACES) is a group of community citizens and business partners who have joined together to support Auburn’s K-12 students.

Their mission is to promote innovative opportunities that enrich the educational experiences of all students in Auburn City Schools.

Each year the foundation provides

mini-grants to teachers who provide programming for their students that is not only creative, but also displays and encourages excellent classroom teaching.

Awards of Excellence are presented to the top two grants in memory of Carol Pittard and Diane Wilson.

FACES is also a participating member of the Amazon Smile program. A donation

will be made to the foundation based on a percentage of all purchases made through smile.amazon.com and designated for FACES. This is the easiest way to help. Go to smile.amazon.com to get started.

The Foundation is administered by a board of Auburn community volunteers and is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization.

Pictured (L to R): ACS Superintendent Dr. Cristen Herring, FACES Board President Martee Moseley, Rep. Joe Lovvorn, Auburn Chamber of Commerce President Lolly Steiner and ACS Assistant Superintendent Wes Gordon

B2 October 7, 2020

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

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

Erik Watts, who got Opelika off to a hot start with a receiving touchdown and a rushing touchdown in the first quarter

IT’S THE OPELIKA WAY.

GO DAWGS!

Jay Sinclair -

The senior corner had two punt returns for touchdowns and an interception

of the

Week Congratulations from

Lee Co. Revenue Commissioner Oline Price

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

Opelika 215 S. 9th St. Opelika 334-737-3655

Smiths Station 2366 LR 430 Ste. 140 Smiths Station 334-664-0296

Auburn 1266 Mall Pkwy Auburn 334-737-7298

Beauregard’s Football Player of the Week

#4 TYLER GORDON SENIOR WR/DB WHO RETURNED A KICKOFF 75 YARDS FOR A TOUCHDOWN

Amahri Peabody, who caught three touchdowns, including a toe-tap catch in the corner of the end zone

Sponsored by Goree’s Furniture Express

3797 AL Highway 169, Opelika 334-742-0607

B3 October 7, 2020

Singing In The Rain

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Ecclesiastes 3:1.

I

field trips, having to miss a long-awaited birthday party due to sickness, losing a game, etc., are some of life’s disappointments. They can be big or little, but they still bring sadness and a let-down feeling.

The earlier the better in a child’s life to teach them healthy coping skills as they work through the sad feelings they may have in disappointments. Taking the time to encourage your child early in life to work through difficult situations builds up strength, confidence and contentment in tough situations that they may face in life.

As a teacher and parent, I wanted to share

absolutely love to go to the Early Childhood classroom, rain or shine!

Rain is a natural event that brings much-needed water and nourishment to our earth, but disappointment to a class of preschoolers who want to go outside and play. When I have met a class of disappointed faces after sharing a daily schedule not including outside play, I have used “Singing in the Rain” lesson plans to try to minimize the disappointment. But to be honest with myself as a teacher, I cannot always protect the children I teach from disappointments. Cancelled

B

some helpful tips that I have gleaned over the years from fellow teachers, parents and my own experiences.

1. The first thing I have tried when I have seen young children truly upset with disappointment is to let them know that I understand and feel their pain of sadness. Sitting down face to face with them, spending time with them and letting them talk and express themselves, even through tears and upset, shows empathy and understanding. Time spent with children spells LOVE! 2. One thing that we parents and teachers come to realize is that we cannot control situations or circumstances to prevent from disappointments affecting our children. Personally, I will admit as a teacher I just don’t want the children I teach to experience disappointments.

But we as teachers and parents realize that we have to gently and tenderly guide and direct our children when they are going through disappointments. This requires listening to our children as they express their feelings and identify with their feelings. If there is a disappointment due to

not being able to go on a trip, activity, event, happening, ask your child what they would desire to have happened. This opens up a discussion on how it could be done in a different way.

3. We have to be realistic in knowing that 2020 has been a difficult year with regard to expectations. As families it is so natural to have something to look forward to such as vacation, family gatherings and holidays. We have to admit that it has been hard on children this year with fun social gatherings being cancelled or postponed and usual holiday traditions uncertain. As parents and teachers we have to look at our situations this year. Our expectations should be different. Young children are literal thinkers.

When we say we are going to do something, they take us at our word and build hope and excitement that you and they will be doing what you said. During these uncertain times we have to truly think before we promise our children what we are going to do.

An example of what I am talking about is on Mother’s Day this year I had such high hopes and excitement about flying to see my son in Grand

Rapids, Michigan. With COVID-19 we knew by April that this would be impossible. My heart just sank, but we made the best of the situation

by Zooming together over a Mother’s Day meal. As we ate our meal together by having contact via Zoom, it truly was close to us being together. We as a family are learning to cope in our disappointments.

We are discovering new ways as families and friends to come together. Yes, we miss the touch and hugs, but time spent with our loved ones is a huge hug!

4. With young children you have to learn to plan ahead of time in guiding their expectations. This helps them to cope in their disappointments. Being honest with our children is the best coping skill that we can give them. Yes, this time of having to stay home to maintain health and safety guidelines is hard, but give them hope in knowing that things will be better. Explain to them that a vaccine is being worked on, but we have to practice patience at this time. Too, you and your children can point out things that are going right, such as having more family time together, having more

time to enjoy the beautiful outdoors and having more time for learning new skills and hobbies.

Young children absolutely love to point out happy, positive things!

5. Too, this is the time that we can point our children to the absolute truth of God. The Creator who made them and us is the ONE who keeps His promises. In God’s Word, which is the truth and map for us to live by, point out examples and models of people such as Noah, who obeyed God by building an ark to take care of his family and the animals of the world during the flood to wipe out evil. Children love to hear this story over and over. It gives them hope that after the storm God gives Noah and his family a promise in a rainbow. I love this verse of hope that preschoolers take to heart (Jeremiah 29:11): “For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord.” This verse goes on to say that the Lord has thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

We are all learning to cling on to hope as we live life to the fullest during these different times.

Classroom Observer Beth Pinyerd

A big choice for college students: Front, middle, or back row?

y the time students transition from high school to a college or university, their classroom seating preferences are fully inculcated. But suddenly they are in a room with 150 or more seats, and that’s as shocking as SEC teams having a 10-game regular season.

Well, not THAT shocking, but close.

What if you come from Akron in Hale County, AL? When the classroom is full, you will be with the equivalent of half of the residents of your hometown. (Akron had 356 people as of the 2010 Census.) Don’t let it stop you from making good choices for seats in classes that do not observe assigned seating.

This column is about

By Greg Markley what are thought to be the promises and the faults of sitting at certain places in classrooms. Many of my childhood friends, including one who was in jail and another a successful engineer, sat in the back row. I sat up front as I had near-sightedness—but didn’t have any eyeglasses.

I don’t remember if I was afraid to wear glasses, as it was a stigma then. It could have been that my parents could not afford an ophthalmologist or the glasses, as we were a middle-class family with four kids. I got glasses when I received my driving license in 1974. It was nice to see more vivid colors and details.

According to Paul Adams, Ph.D, a dean at Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre, PA, students who sit in the front row have made an excellent choice. “It’s clear that students tend to do much better in class when they sit close to the front (the closer, the better) because they become more engaged in the class,” Adams

explained.

Since my undergraduate days, I almost always found myself sitting up front. One reason is that I usually read up for the class.

Students who are unprepared for class tend to seek shelter in the farthest back rows.

Another reason is that you can hear the professor better and take accurate notes. You participate more in class discussions and develop better study habits. This invariably leads to higher grades.

Still another reason I prefer the front row, no matter how small or large the class, is that it is a “political” choice.” I know—people in the U.S. Army often told me they like being “away from the

flagpole.” That is, away from a headquarters building where the colonels and sergeants major work. If you are in a class of 60-plus students, you interact with your professor much less.

However, if you are sitting in front and a professor notices you and how dedicated you are, it doesn’t hurt that you have consistently high grades. My undergraduate major is in political science, so I broadly conceive the term “politics”. It is “…a set of activities associated with making group decisions, or other forms of power relations between individuals.” When you sit up front, “what you know” and “who you know” are a good recipe

for success.

“The middle of the classroom is one of the worst places to sit,” wrote Robert Wallace, Ed. D. in 2017 for Creators Syndicate. “In a classroom, a speaker’s eyes tend to go to the front of the room and the back. They don’t look at the center of a room as often or with the same amount of attention. Students who are shy and retiring, timid or have problems paying attention should avoid the middle of a room.”

People who sit in the back of a classroom are stereotyped as trying to avoid attention or as sneaking a peek at their phones. But that does not tell the whole story.

See MARKLEY, page B4

B4 October 7, 2020

ACS Superintendent gives update on Auburn schools

By Will Fairless Associate Editor

The Auburn Chamber of Commerce held a membership forum via Zoom on Sept. 30 and invited Auburn City Schools Superintendent Dr. Cristen Herring for an update on the school system.

Rod Cater introduced the forum by saying, “Two components of the chamber’s mission ar to connect and inform the auburn business community. The membership forums advance these components by providing a platform to connect our stakeholders with our members.”

Herring gave an update on Auburn City Schools. The following are quotes from Herring’s statement during the Zoom call: “On this, our 37th day of school, in what has proven to be very unusual circumstances, I am proud to be with you and to represent Auburn City Schools. In all the

years before, the 37th day of school might not have seemed extraordinary. 37 was no different from 36 or 38 or 134, but this year, in the year of COVID-19, I believe that we are all learning to celebrate what before might have been very easy to overlook.”

“With terrific support of our local community and our business community too, Auburn City Schools is a very special place. With tremendous support of our city council and city leaders, with outstanding leadership provided by our board of education, and with my privilege of working with talented, dedicated colleagues, Auburn City Schools is an amazing place in which to work and learn.”

“We communicate and collaborate with our area partners, including Lee Scott Academy, Opelika City Schools, and the Lee County school system.

Auburn city schools is one of only 8

systems in the state of Alabama to have earned straight A’s on the Alabama State Department of Education’s accountability report card. With rankings and awards that recognize the hard work of our students, teachers, and staff, Auburn City Schools is proud of the high ranking by niche.com and such recent accolades as being named a ‘best community’ for music education.

Our system is one of very few in the state showing growth in Alabama this year.

There are 724 students in the auburn city schools class of 2031.”

Herring displayed a graphic with some figures about the school system, including how the system’s enrollment has grown (an average of 129 more students every year for the past three years) and the following demographic information, labeled “ethnicity of student population:” American Indian/ Alaskan: 0.19% African

American/Black: 11.64% Asian: 23.61% Pacific Islander: 0.07% Hispanic: 6.52% Caucasian/White: 57.97% Herring commended the class of 2020 for their achievements and for graduating in this unprecedented time. She shared the following statistics about the most recent graduating class: 600 graduates 8 National Merit Finalists 8 Commended Scholars 3 National Merit InstitutionalEndowed Scholarship Recipients 6 Presidential Scholar Nominees 195 Total Number of Colleges/ Universities Represented $18.2 Million in Total Scholarships 61% of class awarded scholarships 17 AP Scholars 8 AP Scholars with Honor 30 AP Scholars with Distinction 7 National AP

Scholars In Auburn City Schools at the beginning of the year, 6,313 traditional learning students received face to face instruction, and 2,537 chose to learn remotely.

Herring showed a PowerPoint slide that read, “Preventative measures are in place in Auburn City Schools including the use of facial coverings, social distancing, increased sanitizing by custodial staff, and proper hand hygiene. Cases of COVID-19 have presented themselves within ACS and have been reported to the Alabama Department of Public Health with students and staff being quarantined accordingly.”

“There is no certificate or no trophy that adequately provides recognition our educators deserve. What makes Auburn City Schools so special is indeed our amazing teachers,” Herring said.

MARKLEY

FROM B4

Some students prefer the back because they have a job to be at 20 minutes after class and exiting the room from up front would take them longer. Others might sit in the back so they can discreetly discuss the lecture with friends nearby. That would draw too much attention up front.

“When you sit in the back of the classroom, you have a tendency to get distracted and watch other kids instead of the teacher,” offered Tina Parks, an education major at Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove, PA, in 2017. “There’s also better eye contact with the teacher when you sit in the front row.”

People like me, who sit in the front row in classes, are sometimes called “nerds” or “professor’s favorites.”

That’s true in many cases. But I did get plenty of As. There are also oversimplified images of students who elect to sit in the middle or back of a classroom. After all, it’s your choice that counts, not mine.

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

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

Beulah starts well but falls to Childersburg

By Wil Crews sportscrews@ opelikaobserver.com

CALEB BURTON

(TEAM-HIGH SEVEN TACKLES, ONE FOR LOSS)

On Thursday, The Beulah Bobcats faced off against the Childersburg Tigers, falling 42-14. The loss moves the Bobcats to 0-6, but three of the loses came as forfeits due to the coronavirus.

One fewer day of practice did not appear to affect either team, as the two combined for 482 total yards.

The difference was the passing game.

Beulah completed 5-of-13 passes for 37 yards, while Childersburg completed 7-of-12 for 126 yards. Both teams ran the ball effectively. Beulah finished with 193 yards and scored their only two touchdowns on the ground. Still, Childersburg posted a respectable 166 rushing yards of their own.

Conditions were fair as the game began and Buelah took an early 7-0 lead with a 30-yard rushing TD by Anquavion Holmes.

The Tigers answered on their second drive with a 30-yard TD pass from Cannan Johnson to Elijah Sims. The first quarter ended 7-7.

The next score of the game came for the Tigers on a 63-yard rushing TD

by Xzavion Garrett.

The half ended with both teams trading punts and refusing to give in to the opposition’s offense.

It wasn’t until the second half when Childersburg solidified their dominance and pulled away from the Bobcats.

Buelah opened the scoring in the third quarter with a 1-yard TD run by senior qaurterback Kaleb Abney.

Abney finished with

119 yards rushing to lead the Bobcats.

From there, it was all Childersburg. A fumble recovered and returned for a TD, a 20-yard rushing TD (Garrett’s second of the game), a 6-yard rushing touchdown (Garrett’s third) and a 52-yard passing TD (Johnson’s second) put the game away. Final score: Beulah 14, Childersburg 42.

The Bobcats’ first half play was as well as Beulah have started a game this season. Ultimately, untimely turnovers and a lack of a passing game did the Bobcats in.

The Bobcats now prepare for their home matchup against Reeltown (3-3) of Notasulga, Alabama. The game is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST at 4848 Lee Road 270, Valley, Alabama, 36854.

B5 October 7, 2020

Entomologist to speak at Oct. 14 OLLI Brown Bag Lecture via Facebook Live Courtesy of OLLI

Dr. Michael L. Williams, Professor Emeritus of Entymology, will present “The Monarch Butterfly: America’s Best Known Butterfly” at OLLI’s Alabama Brown Bag Lunch & Lecture Series.

The presentation will be streamed via Facebook Live on OLLI at Auburn’s Facebook page

on Wednesday, Oct. 14 at 12 p.m.

In this presentation, Williams will discuss the history of the Monarch Butterfly including its biology, migration patterns and conservation efforts and will bring you up to date on the current status of Monarch populations.

Williams is Professor Emeritus of Entomology in the Department of

Entomology and Plant Pathology at Auburn University. He served as Chair of the Department from 1999-2006. He retired in 2012. He taught insect identification, insect morphology and landscape entomology and conducted research on the taxonomy of scale insects and management of pests of ornamental plants during his 39 year tenure at

Auburn. He was elected an Honorary Member of the Entomological Society of America in 2011 and remains active in the profession of Entomology.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Auburn University (OLLI at Auburn) hosts its Fall Brown Bag Lunch & Lecture Series from 12 to 1 p.m. via Facebook Live on OLLI

at Auburn’s Facebook page, facebook.com/ OLLIatAuburn. The program begins at 12 p.m.

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 administrative offices and select classes are located at the historic Sunny Slope property,

Beat ‘Bama Food Drive Continues Contributed by The Food Bank of East Alabama

Another “food fight” is underway as the annual Beat ‘Bama Food Drive began on Oct. 1st. For the past 26 years, Auburn University and the University of Alabama have competed with each other prior to the football game to see who could raise the most food for their local food bank. It began as a relatively smallscale event and has grown to become one of the largest food drives in the state.

Last year, Alabama took the win with 278,788 pounds of donated foods compared to 229,361 pounds for Auburn.

This year’s competition runs from Oct. 1st through Nov. 19th and it promises to be fierce

as Auburn fights to bring in the win for the Plains and Tuscaloosa attempts to hold on to it.

Donated food will be used to help the Food Bank’s senior programs, soup kitchens, emergency food pantries, missions and rehabilitation centers that are served by the Food Bank of East Alabama and the West Alabama Food Bank.

You can help! The competition is primarily a student-organized activity, but is strongly supported by the local community, with food drives at many local businesses and public schools.

Also a number of local grocery stores help to facilitate community donations by allowing the Food Bank to place barrels in the store lobby during the food drive.

Locations of

collection barrels (updated regularly): Winn-Dixie on S. College Street, Auburn Kroger, Auburn Food Bank of East Alabama, Auburn Community Market, Opelika Numerous locations on Auburn University campus For a list of updated barrel locations, visit www.foodbankofeastalabama.com and click on “News & Events” If you would like more information or would like to schedule an interview, please contact: · Martha Henk, Executive Director of the Food Bank – 334821-9006 or by email at mhenk@foodbankofeastalabama.com · Taylor Pierce, President of the 2020 Beat ‘Bama Food Drive – 251-7768860 or by email at tep0009@auburn.edu

Beauregard announces Homecoming Court Courtesy of Rena’ Peacock

Beauregard High School Homecoming Court is announced. The game will be Friday, October 9, 2020 on Richard L Brown field at 7:00 p.m. The following young ladies have been chosen by their fellow classmates as this year’s Homecoming Court representatives. Seated on the front row, from left to right, are seniors Miracle Prickett, Ansli McDonald and Alexxia Carter. Standing on the second row, from left to right, are sophomores Tanner Rodgers and Erica Lee Harman, juniors Mackenzie Musgrave and Abbie Cook(not pictured) and freshmen Hannah Helms Childers and Ainslie Stowes. Homecoming queen will be crowned during the halftime activities

GLENWOOD>>

FROM B1

Robichaux exploded for a 60-yard rushing TD, giving Glenwood an early 14-0 lead as the first quarter came to a close. Now, it was time for the defense to make an impact on the stat sheet. Jay Sinclair has been electric for the Gators all season; just last week he had a punt return for a touchdown. This week, he practically ended all

hopes Monroe Academy had for a close a game with a 40-yard pick six (as it was called on the field) but it was overturned and marked at the one-yard-line.

Robichaux’s stat line was the beneficiary of the overturned call as he scored a one-yard TD on the ground. The Gators led 21-0 halfway through the second quarter. The next three series went turnover on downs for Monroe Academy, punt by Glenwood and fumble

recovery by Glenwood.

With just about a minute to go in the half, Gator quarterback Jackson Griner connected with receiver A.J Harris on a deep pass that moved the ball from just past half-field to the nine-yard line. The Gators were rolling and threatening once again.

That’s when Griner his junior wide receiver Radonda Beauchamp Jr. for a 4-yard TD pass.

Halftime: Glenwood 28, Monroe Academy 0.

The second half

continued in the season-long dominant fashion with which the Gators have played.

Robichaux and Griner broke out for long runs and Robichaux finished Glenwood’s first drive of the second half with a 7-yard rushing TD. A.J Harris returned a punt for a touchdown for the fourth week in a row. 42-0 Gators. The backups then came into the game and the scoring stalled. However, freshman quarterback

Dallas Crow got his second score in as many games with a 15-yard rushing TD with two minutes left in play. The win is a clear warning sign for other teams in the region and means Glenwood’s record when scoring 40 or more points is 64-4.

Next Friday, Oct. 9, Glenwood have a home conference game against Hooper Academy (4-2). The game is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST at The Swamp.

1031 South College St., Auburn, Alabama.

For more information regarding this event or to learn about becoming a volunteer faculty member, volunteer service sssistant or sponsor, contact Shawnee McKee, OLLI Administrative Support, at 334-844-3146, olli@ auburn.edu or visit OLLI’s website (olliatauburn.org).

SPORTS

>> FROM B1 70-yard TD pass.

OHS gained 222 yards passing and 95 yards rushing for a total of 317 yards.

RCHS rushed due 100 passing yards and negative 36 rushing yards for a total of 64 yards.

Individually, Malik Finley was 5 of 8 for 158 passing yards.

Grady Bynum and Kaden Cooper caught two passes each for 68 and 60 yards, respectively.

Defensively, Octavious Gay led with 4 tackles and Jalen Parker had a total of six tackles, including 5 assists.

Opelika travels to Montgomery’s Crampton Bowl for a rare 11 a.m. kickoff against Robert E Lee. The Generals are 4-3 overall and 3-1 in the Region. Lee is coming off a loss to rival Jeff Davis by a score of 15-20 last week.

Lee lost the opener 26-19 to Daphne then reeled off three straight wins: 19-14 over JD, 25-10 over Eufaula and 21-0 over Sidney Lanier.

Russell County forfeited to Lee, which is the 4th win.

Lee and Opelika are tied in the series with 11 wins and 11 loses for each team.

The Generals’ last win over the Bulldogs occurred in the second round of the playoffs in 1999, 14-3.

OHS has won seven straight and last played Lee in 2013.

Fans should be able to purchase tickets on gofan.co.

The Crampton Bowl is larger than most high school stadiums, which allows people to spread out and social distance.

Masks are required.

You can listen to the game on 97.7 Kicker and online at kickerfm.com.

You can also watch the live stream on the NFHS network at no charge, thanks to the Orthopaedic Clinic sponsoring the broadcast.

B6 October 7, 2020

Auburn University Ag, Forestry students awarded $128,000 in scholarships Courtesy of Alabama Farmers Federation Seventy-six students at Auburn University (AU) received scholarships for the 2020-2021 academic year through various Alabama Farmers Federation groups.

Of the recipients, 54 received the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation (AFAF)

Scholarship. The program is a joint effort between AFAF and county Farmers Federations, which split the funding of the scholarships — $1,250 and $500 respectively.

“We’re proud of these students. They’re hard workers who represent the future of agriculture and farming,” said Alabama Farmers Federation President

Auburn University student Louie Harris of Lee County received a $1,750 scholarship from the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation and the Lee County Farmers Federation. The Auburn native is a freshman studying animal sciences pre-vet.

Jimmy Parnell, who also serves as president of AFAF’s board of directors. “It’s a pleasure to be able to invest in their education through this scholarship program.

We’re confident these young adults will go on to achieve great things in our industry.”

Farmers Federations in Baldwin,

Auburn University student Julia Bush of Lee County received a scholarship from the Lee County Farmers Federation. The Opelika native is a freshman studying agricultural business and economics.

Panthers defeat Jefferson Davis

By Will Fairless Associate Editor Smiths Station got its winning percentage to .500 with a win against Jefferson Davis High School last Friday at Panther Stadium at T.VC Britton Field.

The Panthers’ first drive against the Montgomery high school ended in a rushing touchdown by running back Jhameir Gore. Smiths station would not relinquish the lead for the rest of the game, and Gore would go on to have a huge game against the Volunteers with another touchdown and plenty of yards to go with the pair.

Jefferson Davis’s first drive proved to have been predictive of their night, as it shared the same themes as the visiting team’s game as a whole. Illegal substitution and false start penalties doomed the drive before it began.

Although an option play got a portion of those referee-paced yards back, the Volunteers were unable to rip off a chunk for the first down against Smiths Station.

Smiths station got the ball back after the three-and-out and immediately gained 50 yards on an inside screen pass to Ciannon Williams, who ran behind a wall of Panther linemen before shifting into an extra gear

and outpacing them and everyone but the Jefferson Davis secondary.

Two plays later, Corey Minton threw a touchdown pass to Amahri Peabody, who was running across the middle on a slant route to go up 14-0 (after the PAT from Josh Childs, who ended the night 7-for-7 on extra points) with 5:33 remaining in the first quarter.

Smiths Station would then get the ball back on a short kickoff that went through the hands of a Jefferson Davis player. Gore scored his second rushing touchdown and the Panthers led 21-0 at the end of the first quarter.

There was no scoring for most of the second quarter, as the two teams went back and forth stifling run plays and pressuring the quarterbacks on passing plays. Sloppy special teams play and penalties kept the ball between the red zones until Smiths Station got the ball in the middle of the quarter.

On third and five with just under three minutes left in the half, Smiths Station threw an incomplete pass over the middle.

Panthers fans in the bleachers called pass interference, but there was no consequence on the field. A fourthdown gamble paid off as Williams made a toe-drag catch on the

sideline to extend the drive.

Two plays later, after receiving a pass on the left side of the field, WR Devyn Pearman did some resistance training, churning his legs for extra yards as a fallen Jefferson Davis player hung onto his jersey.

Minton would then throw a feathery pass to the far corner of the endzone, where Peabody was headed just a step ahead of his defender; a toe-tap catch while going out of bounds gave Smiths Station their fourth touchdown of the half with Jefferson Davis still scoreless.

The Minton-Peabody connection would strike again with 7:25 left in the third quarter, almost exactly recreating their first score with another slant.

That would be the last score of Smiths Station’s and the largest gap of the night after Childs nailed the point after to bring it to 350.

Before the players would board the buses, Jefferson Davis scored 14 points on the ground unconventionally, combining two rushing touchdowns and a run to convert after the second.

Smiths Station’s next game will be against Enterprise High School (4-2) on Oct. 9 at 1801 Boll Weevil Circle in Enterprise, Alabama.

Chambers, Chilton, Covington, Dale, Henry, Houston, Lee and Madison counties awarded an additional 21 scholarships. Recipients were also selected for the Mike Henry Memorial Scholarship and the Ronny Donaldson Memorial Scholarship.

Students pursuing degrees in agriculture, forestry or a related

field at AU or Alabama A&M University must apply for the competitive AFAF Scholarship Program. Annually, applications are due Jan. 31. Visit alfafarmers.org/scholarships for more details.

For photos of this year’s recipients, view the scholarship album on the Alabama Farmers Federation Facebook page. For a

Auburn University student Clari Gregson of Lee County received a scholarship from the Lee County Farmers Federation. The Auburn native is a freshman studying pre-forestry.

full list of recipients, visit www.alfafarmers. org/2020-Ag-Foundation-Scholarships.

Not pictured above: Auburn University student Wes Stewart of Lee County received a scholarship from the Lee County Farmers Federation.

The Auburn native is a junior studying wildlife enterprise management.

Auburn University student Julia Lawrence of Lee County received a scholarship from the Lee County Farmers Federation.

The Auburn native is a junior studying poultry science- production.

Southern Christian make strides in the running game, outdone by Pinecrest Academy

By Will Washburn For the Opelika Observer

Southern Christian Patriots played Pinecrest Academy out of Cummings, Georgia last Friday night.

Though the final score was 31-7 both teams played well, putting up many yards on the ground. Senior quarterback Daniel Adams led the Patriots in rushing yards with 61, while Pinecrest had 102

rushing yards as a team.

Southern Cristian’s only touchdown was magnificent. It came from a heavily covered 27-yard pass from backup quarterback Josia Frick.

After being tipped twice by the defence, the pass was caught by senior wide receiver Jackson Washburn and ran in for a touchdown. ”Pinecrest is a very good team and is well coached,” (Lead with the quote

and break it up so you have more quotes) Southern Cristian Academy’s head coach Mike Adams said about his team’s play.

“Unfortunately we had several early defensive breakdowns that led to Pinecrest touchdowns.

I am proud of our guys and proud of their fight.” The Patriots will next play on Oct. 9 against East Central at 7:00 p.m. in Trussville, Alabama.

Beauregard falls to Tallassee Rick Lanier Opelika Observer

The truth is the Hornets did not play well enough for the entire game to win. As has been the case this season, a lack of experience at key positions required the coaching staff to play several Hornets on both sides of the ball.

As has also been the case, and especially by the end of each game, two-way players become fatigued, make mistakes and miss assignments.

Unfortunately this past Friday night was no different.

Perhaps a little more troubling is the appearance of what seems to be a recurring pattern of untimely turnovers and penalties emerging.

At the very least, the Hornet’s seem to be taking one step forward and two steps back, on both sides of the ball.

It’s an issue Head Coach Rob Carter addressed post-game – “we shot ourselves in the foot tonight…” and “obviously the penalties got us tonight.”

In fairness, this is a young Hornet team who is getting better, show no signs of panic from either the players or coaches, and in each game, demonstrate flashes of what the Hornets are capable of.

Trailing 7-0 after fumbling away their first possession only 56 seconds into the game, QB Gavin Prickett connected with WR/DB Keyshon Tolefree for a

72-yard touchdown pass to tie the score at 7-7 on the Hornet’s second possession.

Then, out of a Wildcat formation, Tallassee found some early success on a 12-play drive deep into Beauregard territory. Just when it looked like the Tigers would score, the superb play from Hornet defenders RB/DE Trent Jones, WR/DB Keyshon Tolefree and OL/DL Eston Harris stymied the drive and forced the Tigers to turn the ball over on downs at the Hornet 5 yard line.

Both teams traded possessions into the second quarter, until the Tigers were able to add a field goal to See BEAUREGARD page B13

B7 October 7, 2020

B8 October 7, 2020

Opelika scores 49 points on Homecoming night

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics

B9

October 7, 2020

Wednesday, October 7, 2020

The Story of the Dixiecrats and 1948 Truman Election

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he year 1948 was an interesting and momentous year in southern politics. World War II had just ended. The king of American politics, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, had passed away in Warm Springs, Georgia.

FDR had reigned omnipotently as president from 1932-1945. His vice president was an obscure, peculiar looking Missourian named Harry Truman. Truman had been a haberdasher in Independence, Missouri, who had gone broke selling men’s clothing. The legendary St. Louis Pendergrass political machine took Harry in and made him a U.S. Senator.

Harry was a backbencher in the senate, to say the least. FDR plucked him out of the Senate and made him his running mate. FDR won the 1944 election overwhelmingly. Americans never un-elect presidents in the midst of a war; “You never change horses in the middle of the stream.” Truman settled into his obscurity as vice president. He would often quote another vice president, John Nance Garner, a tough-talking Texan who would say the office of vice president is about as useless as a warm bucket of spit.

FDR did not even tell Truman about our scientists working on a project to create the nuclear bomb. However, it fell to Harry to drop those bombs on Japan, which ended World War II. Another famous Texas politician, Sam Rayburn, was Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. Mr. Sam ruled the House with an iron hand, craftily shepherding FDR’s New Deal legislation through Congress. Mr. Sam had a private office tucked away in the basement of the Capitol. It was right under the House Chamber.

Mr. Sam Rayburn, the Speaker, would also refer to himself as the Chairman of the Board of Education.

He would invite aspiring congressmen to join him every afternoon at 3 p.m. for a Board of Education meeting. His cubbyhole Board of Education would only hold about 1218 members. Therefore, you knew you had arrived when you received

Auburn City Manager James Buston set to retire in January

By Hannah Lester hlester@opelikaobserver.com

STEVE FLOWERS one of Mr. Sam’s invitations to his 3 o’clock board meeting. Mr. Sam would promptly look at his watch at 3, adjourn Congress, and stroll downstairs to his Board of Education meeting, where they would enjoy Bourbon and branchwater.

Since Harry really had nothing much to do as Vice President, Mr. Sam extended him a standing invitation to his board meeting. Harry was a regular as they enjoyed their good Kentucky Bourbon and Texas branchwater.

One April afternoon in 1945, Mr. Sam, Harry and a dozen Congressmen had about three or four libations under their belts when the Secret Service came in and whisked Harry away to the White House. FDR had died in Georgia and Harry was sworn in as President. I am not saying Harry was inebriated. However, he was probably a little dizzy as he unexpectedly became President of the United States.

Harry Truman was elected in an upset as President in 1948. He won despite the departure of the Deep South, which had been loyally Democratic. The South split off from the Democratic Party and voted for the Dixiecrat ticket led by South Carolina’s Strom Thurmond.

This split in the Southern Democratic ranks was due to the race issue. Truman had espoused and promoted a Civil Rights Bill.

See FLOWERS, page B10

Auburn City Manager James Buston III will retire on Jan. 31, 2021, the city of Auburn announced Thursday evening.

“My time here has been a wonderful journey, and I hope to have made a meaningful contribution to making Auburn a better place for all who live, work, visit and study here,” Buston said in a release from the city of Auburn.

Buston began his service with the city of Auburn in 1996 and was appointed to the city manager position in 2017.

One of Buston’s first undertakings with the city of Auburn was to create the first Information Technology Department, the release said.

Buston was a master of science graduate of Auburn University and served as a Peace Corps volunteer before starting with the city of Auburn.

Buston also served as a U.S. Technical Advisor for Latin American Affairs in Honduras, was the Vice President in charge of software development for the Intermark Corporation and a technology group chairman for the R.U.R. Group.

Buston’s extensive history led him to a career with 25 years in the city of Auburn. However, during his

BUSTON time with the city, Buston was also studying and graduated from the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. He also graduated from the Leading, Educating and Developing program through the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service at the University of Virginia.

His time studying did not hinder his work for the Loveliest Village on The Plains. In fact, residents of Auburn rated satisfaction in numerous areas of See BUSTON, page B10

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JOIN US!

Opelika Listening sessions

Join The City of Opelika to discuss issues related to

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• Drive Thru Only • Regular Operating Hours • Please Call Ahead on Refills to Avoid Wait

334-364-9993 | 334-364-9997 7667 Alabama Hwy 51, Suite A, Opelika www.beauregarddrugs.com Mon-Fri 8am–6pm | Sat 9am–12pm | Sunday Closed

diversity and inclusion OPELIKA MUNICIPAL COURTROOM • 5 - 7 P.M. 300 Martin Luther King BLVD. Ward 4 – Tuesday, October 13 Ward 2 – Thursday, October 15 Ward 1 – Tuesday, October 27 Ward 3 – Thursday, October 29 Ward 5 – Thursday, November 5 Diversity and inclusion are important to the success of any community. Your voice matters. Please plan to take part in this meaningful discussion. Moderator will ask questions to engage residents in a thoughtful and productive community conversation.

Questions, contact City of Opelika, Community Relations Officer, Leigh Krehling, lkrehling@opelika-al.gov.

Moderated by Leadership Empowerment Strategies

B10 October 7, 2020

Lee county opportunities for absentee voting for the 2020 general election

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bsentee ballot applications are available online at https://www. sos.alabama.gov/ alabama-votes/voter/ absentee-voting or at AlabamaVotes. gov. Paper copies are available in the Lee County Courthouse or county satellite offices in Auburn and Smiths Station. Voters can call the Absentee Election Office at (334) 737-3490 to request an application and one will be mailed to them.

The deadline for applying for an absentee ballot is Thursday, October 29, 2020.

Completed applications for absentee ballots may be delivered in person to the Absentee Election Manager Mr. James Majors or sent through the US Mail to PO Box 1616, Opelika, AL 36803. Only the voter themselves can return their own absentee application; no one can

return another person’s application. Those that are mailed in should be sent with one application per envelope.

Even applications from a husband and wife that live in the same household must be returned separately, whether by mail or in person. Failure to do so will result in the application(s) being returned and the process delayed.

The Absentee Election Manager’s Office in the Lee County Courthouse will be open Monday through Friday from now until the election from 8:30am until 4:30pm Central Time. In addition, it will remain open until 6:00pm on all Tuesdays and Thursdays in the month of October.

The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot is close of business Thursday, October 29, and the deadline to postmark or return

a ballot in person is close of business Monday, November 2.

The Absentee Office is seeing a steady stream of voters in the Courthouse and wait times can range from 10 minutes to as long as an hour. Those wait times are expected to greatly increase as we get closer to Election Day. You are encouraged to use the US Mail option if at all possible. The office can process 4 or 5 mailedin absentee requests in the same amount of time it takes to process one absentee voter in person. If you have concerns about mail delivery or counting of absentee ballots, in-person voting at the polls on Election Day may be your most reassuring experience. Absentee ballots do not arrive until about 55 days prior to the election, and they arrived September 9. By that time, the absentee office had already received over a

thousand applications.

The absentee office is currently experiencing a large number of walk-in voters and is receiving hundreds of mailed applications per day. There are 8-10 assistants working during office hours, as well as nights and weekends to process the mail and handle in-person absentee voting. Your patience is appreciated.

There are several valid reasons for absentee voting: those that expect to be out of their county of permanent residence on Election Day. those that have a physical illness or infirmity that make them unable to vote in person.

Those that have a physical illness or infirmity that, coupled with age and/or disability, make them unable to access their polling place because they cannot stand for any length of time, walk

unassisted, see, hear or speak.

Those that have a required workplace shift which includes at least 10 hours that coincide with the 7:00am to 7:00pm polling hours.

Students at educational institutions outside their county of permanent residence.

Members/spouses/ dependents of those in the US Armed Forces serving outside their county of permanent residence.

Those appointed as elections officials in polling places other than where they vote.

Those that are caregivers of family members that are confined at home.

Those incarcerated in jail or prison that have not been convicted of a felony involving moral turpitude.

Additionally, the Absentee Election Manager will offer complete absentee services in person at the following three

locations on the following Saturdays from 9:00am until 1:00pm Central Time: Saturday, October 10, 2020 Smiths Station City Hall Annex Probate Office 2336 Lee Road 430, Smiths Station Saturday, October 17, 2020 Auburn Courthouse Annex Probate Office 1240 Mall Parkway, Auburn Saturday, October 24, 2020 Lee County Absentee Election Office Lee County Courthouse, 215 S Ninth St, Opelika Exercise your right to vote, and thank you for participating in our democracy, especially during this pandemic.

Please keep yourself and others as safe as you can.

Sincerely, Bill English, Probate Judge James Majors, Absentee Election Manager

FLOWERS>>

Democratic ticket and agenda. They were New Deal Democrats.

Economic issues drove the engine. That all changed in 1948 when race trumped economics.

That same year, Dr. V. O. Key wrote a book titled “Southern Politics

in the State and Nation.”

Dr. Key’s book became the premier textbook for students of southern politics. It is so renowned and enduring that it is the bible of southern political theory. I use the textbook when I teach Southern Politics now.

It is used at Vanderbilt,

Emory, Tennessee, Georgia and the University of Alabama, to name a few. Dr. Key first wrote his textbook in 1948. It was updated and revised in 1984.

In Dr. Key’s epistle, he outlines a profound theory called “Friends and Neighbors” politics,

which has a profound and prevalent presence in southern politics. It is very pronounced in Alabama politics. As is the theory that more people will vote against someone than for someone. This rule will play out in the presidential contest in three weeks.

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 can be reached at www.steveflowers.us.

expanded their existing operations.”

Before Buston took over as city manager, he served for 11 years as both the assistant city manager and chief information officer.

“The city of Auburn’s employees form a strong, high-performing organization with a well-deserved reputation for outstanding achievement and I was honored to lead some of the finest and most dedicated public servants in the nation,” Buston said.

Buston took over as

city manager in 2017 and soon after revamped Auburn’s city departments into business units, which not only benefited the city but the biennial budgets as well, the release said.

“This reorganization enhanced teamwork and communication throughout the organization by coordinating departments and programs to improve growth management, customer service, the city’s efficiency, the community’s appearance and the quality of

city infrastructure,” the release said.

Buston’s biennial budgets placed $53.9 million in capital projects but kept the ending fund balance over 25% and the personnel costs below 50%.

His work with budgets was put to a test when the coronavirus pandemic hit the city of Auburn, along with the nation, in March.

“In that time, he led the city’s management team through the biennial budget process, providing support and

recommendations to ensure the city’s continued financial stability through uncertain times,” the release said.

“Through it all, Buston maintained a commitment to the safety and wellbeing of residents and city employees as well as the continued provision of quality city services.”

Buston continued his work as city manager as the city placed state of local emergencies into effect, the council met remotely and the pandemic continued to

sweep the nation.

“I’m beyond thankful that Jim was here to provide a steady hand of experience at a time when we had a new Mayor, six new Council members and three key retirements of long-serving department heads,” said Auburn Mayor Ron Anders. “I will miss his counsel. The city of Auburn is better for his years of dedication to providing the best quality city services possible.”

FROM B9

The South revolted.

Thus, 1948 was a pivotal year in Alabama and Southern politics.

The previous decades had seen the South and Southern congressmen ardently support the

BUSTON>>

FROM B9

government higher than the national average, including value received for tax dollars and fees and satisfaction with Auburn’s customer service, the release said.

“During Buston’s tenure as city manager, over 1,150 new jobs were announced in Auburn’s industrial sector, and seven new companies located in Auburn,” the release said. “Another 32 Auburn companies

B11 October 7, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICES ORDINANCE NO. 024-20 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA BY AMENDING SECTION 2.2 “DEFENITIONS” TO ADD A DEFINITION OF THE TERM “ALTERNATIVE FINANCIAL SERVICE PROVIDERS; TO AMEND SECTION 7.3C “USE CATEGORIES” TO PROVIDE FOR ZONING DISTRICTS WHERE “ALTERNATIVE FINANCIAL SERVICE PROVIDERS” ARE ALLOWED BY CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT; TO ADD NEW SUBSECTION 8.28.2 “ALTERNATIVE FINANCIAL SERVICE PROVIDERS” TO PROVIDE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS AND DISPERSAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALTERNATIVE FINANCIAL SERVICE PROVIDERS; PROVIDIDNG A REPEALER CLAUSE; PPROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE WHEREAS, the alternative financial services industry is a loose term for non-bank entities providing some type of financial service; including, but not limited to, payday advance lenders, check cashing companies, pawn brokers, title pawn lenders, and rent – to – own businesses; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Title 5 of the Code of Alabama, certain rules and regulations

governing alternative financial service providers have been established which regulate payday advance lenders, pawn brokers, title pledge lenders, check cashing companies, deferred presentment services and other similar uses which are considered as non-banking institutions; and WHEREAS, alternative financial services have grown at a rapid rate in the City of Opelika and are concentrated along the major thoroughfares of Opelika; and WHEREAS, a two-tiered system in financial services has emerged in the United States in recent years, with one featuring products distributed by banks, saving and loan associations, credit unions and mortgage companies and the other featuring alternative, higher cost services offered by payday lenders, check cashers, and pawn brokers; and WHEREAS, alternative financial service providers are disproportionately located in minority, low-income neighborhoods and tend to cluster in neighborhoods with a high share of minority and low-income residents; and WHEREAS, minority and lower-income families are more likely to use alternative financial services; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to reduce the concentration of alternative financial service providers in

Alabama Code Title 5, Chapter 18. Alabama Small Loan Act, (b) required to be likened under Alabama Code Title 5, Chapter 18A, Deferred Presentment Services Act, (c) are required to be licensed under Alabama Code Title 5, Chapter 19A, Alabama Pawnshop Act, (d) check cashers where checks, money orders or similar instruments are cashed or negotiated and said services exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the gross dollar value of business, (e) any combination of Alternative Financial Services which include, but are not limited to, “Pawn Brokers”, “Title Pledge Lenders”, “Deferred Presentment Services” and/or “Non-Bank Check Cashiers” as described above. This use does not include establishments licensed by an appropriate state or federal agency as a bank, savings and loan association, or credit union, industrial loan and thrift offices, insurance premium finance companies, or mortgage companies.

Section 3. Amendment of Section 7.3C of the Zoning Ordinance. That section 7.3C “Use Categories” of the Zoning Ordinance is hereby further amended to provide for “Alternative Financial Service Providers” in the matrix table and the pertinent portion of the table be and the same is hereby amended to read as follows:

minority, low-income areas and enhance economic development within said areas by promoting business diversity in the offering of goods and services in those areas; and WHERAS, alternative financial lending practices often have an unreasonable adverse effect upon the elderly and the economically disadvantaged citizens of Opelika.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. Adoption of recitals: That the foregoing recitals and findings in the preambles and each of them, are hereby adopted and are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in full.

Section 2. Amendment of Section 2.2 of the Zoning Ordinance: That section 2.2 “DEFINITIONS” of Ordinance Number 124-91 (entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika”) adopted on September 17, 1991, as amended (hereinafter referred to as “Zoning Ordinance” or “Zoning Code”) is further amended to add the following definition of the term “Alternative Financial Service Providers”: Section 2.2 Definitions Alternative Financial Service Providers: shall mean establishments that are: (a) required to be licensed under

USES COMMERCIAL

DISTRICTS R-1 R-1A R-2 R-3 R-4 R-4M R-5 R-5M C-1 C-2 C-3 M-1 M-2 I-1 GC-P GC-S

Alternative Financial Service Providers

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Section 4. Amendment to Section VIII of Zoning Ordinance. That Section VIII, “GENERAL REGULATIONS”, of the Zoning Ordinance is hereby amended by adding a new subsection to be numbered 8.28.2, which said subsection shall read as follows: “Section 8.28.1 Alternative Financial Service Providers A. Purpose and Intent The purpose and intent of this section is to regulate the continued growth and development of alternative financial service providers within the City of Opelika. This use includes establishments that provide deferred or payday loans, pawn shops, title loans, and non-bank check cashing. Studies have found that these uses tend to locate in lower income neighborhoods. In many instances, these uses cluster together which can have negative effects on surrounding properties.

B. Use Standards and Dispersal Requirements 1. Alternative financial service providers are prohibited unless the proposed use is located more than 2,500 feet from another financial service provider.

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The separation distances shall be measured in a straight line from property line of the proposed alternative financial services provider to the property line of the existing alternative service provider.

2. Alternative financial service providers are prohibited unless the proposed use is located more than 200 feet from any property used primarily for a single-family residence. The separation distances shall be measured in a straight line from property line of the alternative financial service provider to the property line of the residential use.

3. If located at least 2,500 feet from another alternative financial service provider, this use is permitted by conditional use permit (“CUP”) only.

4. Any outdoor display areas of pawned items must be designated during the CUP approval and is required to meet all applicable design guidelines.

5. A nonconforming alternative financial service provider in existence prior to approval of this amendment, may relocate on the same parcel or within the same shopping center that it

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currently exists without obtaining a CUP provided the nonconforming alternative financial service provider has not been terminated as provided in Section 8-20, Non-conforming Uses and Non- conforming Structures of the zoning ordinance and the use complies with all other applicable regulations.

Section 5. Severability. If any section, clause, provision or portion of this Ordinance shall be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, said holding shall not affect any other section, clause, provision or portion of this Ordinance, which is not in or of itself invalid or unconstitutional.

Section 6. Repeal of Conflicting Ordinances. Any ordinance or parts thereof in conflict with the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.

Section 7. Effective Date.

This ordinance shall take effect and be enforced immediately upon its adoption and publication as required by law.

Section 8. Publication. The City Clerk is directed to publish

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a synopsis of this ordinance in a newspaper of general circulation published in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama pursuant to Section 11-45-8(b)(2), Code of Alabama, (1975) as amended.

Section 9. Codification.

Codification of this Ordinance in the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika, Alabama, is hereby authorized and directed.

ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 6th day of October, 2020. /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 7th day of October, 2020. /s/Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 7th day of October, 2020. /s/Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/Russell A. Jones CITY CLERK Legal Run 10/07/2020

NOTICE OF CIVIL LAWSUIT IN UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE MIDDLE DISTRICT OF ALABAMA TO: SLOCUMB LAW FIRM, LLC AND MICHAEL W. SLOCUMB This is to notify you that Civil Action No. 3:18-cv00145, entitled Eugene Scalia, Secretary of Labor, United States Department of Labor v.

Slocumb Law Firm, LLC and Michael W. Slocumb is currently pending in United States District Court for the Middle District of Alabama. Claims against the Defendants include the allegations that Defendants violated provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, as amended, 29 U.S.C. § 201, et. seq., by failing to compensate employees working over 40 hours in a workweek at a rate of at least one and one-half times the employees’ regular rate and for failing to comply with the recordkeeping requirements of said Act. The Complaint seeks back wages and an equal amount in liquidated damages for each affected employee for a period of two years prior to the filing of the lawsuit until final judgment of this matter, and further seeks injunctive relief against future violations of said Act. You are hereby notified that you are required to answer the claims against you within thirty (30) days of the last publication of this notice.

The last date of publication of this notice will be October XX, 2020. Failing to answer or plead in response could result in the entry of a default judgment against Defendants for the relief sought.

Jeremy K. Fisher JEREMY K. FISHER Senior Trial Attorney United States Department of Labor 61 Forsyth St. SW, Room 7T10 Atlanta, GA 30303 Legal Run 09/23/20, 09/30/20, 10/07/20 & 10/14/20 --------------IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY JANE HUMPHRIES, Deceased PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2020-356 Letters testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 17th day of September, 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

M. Clayton Humphries, Jr., Executor Legal Run 09/23/20, 09/30/20 & 10/07/20 --------------Victoria Rodgers, whose whereabouts is unknown, must answer David Toxey, Jr.’s Petition for Modification of Custody and other relief by October 16, 2020, or thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against her in Case

No. DR-2009-476.02, Circuit Court of Lee County.

Done this 13th day of September, 2020 MARY B. ROBERSON, Clerk of the Circuit Court of Lee County Shane Neese 501 Geneva Street Opelika, AL 36801 Attorney for David Toxey Jr. Legal Notice 09/23/20, 09/30/20, 10/07/20 & 10/14/20 -------------LEGAL NOTICE In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Sports Turf Company DBA Sports Track Company, Inc. Contractor, has complete the Contract for Project 19-14 Beulah Park construction at 11099 Lee Road 379, Valley, AL 36854, County of Lee, For Lee County, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Sports Turf Company, Inc. 1487 Black Dirt Road Whitesburg, GA 30185 Legal Run 09/23/20, 09/30/20, 10/07/20 & 10/14/20 ________ IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF: THE ESTATE OF RICKEY EARL CARROLL, deceased.

Case No.: 2020-360 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Terry Carroll on the 17th day of September, 2020 by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred.

TERRY CARROLL Bill English, Probate Judge Legal Run 09/23/20, 09/30/20 & 10/07/20 ________ NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF JOHN NGUYEN, Deceased PROBATE COURT, LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2020-355 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENT ARY of the Estate of JOHN NGUYEN are hereby granted to Toan Nguyen, on the 18th day of September, 2020, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

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

TOAN NGUYEN Legal Run 09/30, 10/07 & 10/14/2020

PUBLIC NOTICES, See page B13

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS ADS HELP WANTED HCV Specialist The Opelika Housing Authority (OHA) has a fulltime opening for Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Specialist. Successful candidate would process new applications for the HCV program, when open.

Conduct annual re-examinations in accordance with

established procedures. Enter information in computer and process new admissions or recertification, including verifying income and other data in accordance with established procedures and regulations. Maintain electronic files and records.

Receive information from residents, verify, and make interim adjustments based on the information. Sched-

ule appointments for annual re-examinations, generate appointment letters and conduct interviews. Take appropriate action based on information received.

Associate Degree in business or related field plus 2 years of work experience that involved dealing with the public and using a computer, or an equivalent combination of education

and experience. Experience in Housing Choice Voucher Program or HUD housing, preferred.

For further details, job description can be found at www.opelikaha.org.

Interested applicants must submit a completed Employment Application with qualifications to ravery@ opelikaha.org or to Human Resources, Opelika Housing

Authority, 1706 Toomer Street, Opelika, AL or mail to P.O. Box 786, Opelika, AL 36803-0786. Applications accepted until the position is filled. (Please No Telephone Calls).

HELP WANTED: Mechanical Engineer- Position available in Opelika, AL. Seek one with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical

Engineering and 2 year experience as Mechanical or Process Engineer in the manufacturing industry.

Duties include operating and developing manufacturing machines and systems; conducting optimal systems maintenance and operations, etc. Mail resume with cover letter to “KOAM, LLC” at 2401 Industrial Blvd, Suite 2, Opelika, AL 36801.

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B12 October 7, 2020

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Play online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/

B13 October 7, 2020

Sen. Jones applauds passage of CBTPA Courtesy of Sen. Jones Press Office

U.S. Sen. Doug Jones recently announced that last week, the Senate passed the House of Representatives version of his bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA) until 2030. Under the agreement, Caribbean businesses are incentivized to use American textiles – many of which are made in Alabama – during production.

“This trade agreement has been crucial for our economy, both in Alabama and across the country.

Reauthorizing this deal is important to ensure that markets are available for Alabama’s cotton growers and textile producers, who were already facing hard times in the global trade landscape even before the COVID pandemic began. We need to do everything we can to support our businesses during thesechallenging

economic times,” Jones said.

The CBTPA is a trade agreement that provides duty-free access for certain textile goods from 23 Caribbean countries that are made with U.S. yarns, fabrics, and threads. Many companies in Alabama, including those in the cotton industry, benefit from this agreement.

Preferences under the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act extended by this bill were enacted by Congress in

2000 and extended in 2010. Without reauthorization, the legislation would have expired.

The legislation was also sponsored by Sens. Marco Rubio of Florida and Ben Cardin of Maryland.

Congresswoman Terri Sewell of Alabama is the lead sponsor in the House of Representatives, where the bill passed unanimously. The legislation now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

JONES

Mrs. Betsy Jordan named Lee County 4-H SET 5- Volunteer of the Year

Courtesy of Lee County 4-H

Betsy Jordan was selected as the SET 5 Volunteer of the Year for 2020. Set 5 is made up of 11 counties within the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

There are 7 total SETs within the state. SET 5 includes the following 11 counties: Cleburne, Calhoun, Talladega, Clay, Randolph, Coosa, Tallapoosa, Chambers, Russell, Macon and Lee. There was one volunteer chosen from each of the eleven SETs in the state.

Jordan first started volunteering 14 years ago with 4-H through a school club at Richland Elementary in Auburn

City Schools. Jennifer Mesman, a teacher at the school, had vision to start a junior gardening club and a 4-H Cloverbud club at the school. That teacher knew that Jordan was a Master Gardener so she contacted Jordan to help coordinate and construct the garden.

Over the years, Jordan has helped with the development of three gardens which included Grandma’s gardens of vegetables, herbs and an orchard. A butterfly garden was additionally added as a memorial garden in memory of the loss of a special needs student from the school. Betsy designed and built the gardens. She raised mon-

ey and support to fulfill this dream of the garden project while she helped organize community resources to carry out this project. These gardens, and the Cloverbud group, are still in existence today. Each year this club focuses on a new agricultural project or farming technique such as crop rotation and more. At one point, one third of the school’s population was in this afterschool 4-H gardening program.

Jordan moved to create the 4-H History Seekers Community Club eight years ago after her oldest daughter moved to the middle school. This community club continues to focus on topics of

interest and studies from a historical and current concept perspective.

The 4-H meetings were, and still continue, to be held at Pioneer Park in Loachapoka. This 4-H club has continued with more gardening projects like the sweet potato project, established a Native American garden of beans, corn and squash, Chick Chain, a bee hive project, and more.

Through their efforts and harvests they have donated a little more than $10,000 to our local food bank. They also created a fund raising opportunity in celebration of the Bicentennial and to give back to the Historical Society in appreciation of

the use of their buildings for 4-H club meetings.

They have gifted the Historical Society more than $10,000 as well through the theatrical dinner over a three year period.

When Deborah Stewart, the Lee County 4-H Agent, met Jordan nearly six years ago, she knew Jordan was a gifted volunteer. Stewart has witnessed Jordan’s love for learning and the youth in our community. Jordan stated she loves how 4-H contributes to youth development and the versatility of 4-H clubs where children can make it their own. In addition, She likes how it can be beneficial for any child to participate, regardless of

their background. In her free time, Jordan enjoys gardening, going to the mountains, cooking, photography and traveling.

Needless to say, Jordan is a life changer and a pillar of the community.

She has touched not only countless youth in Lee County but their families and all who participate in projects she works on. In Jordan’s humble words, “I am just a simple volunteer with lots of extra time”.

Jordan is anything but a simple volunteer. The program is blessed and forever grateful for the impact she has made, and continues to offer, to Lee County 4-Hers and families.

custody of R.P.M. was vested with Lee County DHR on 05/18/2020. Any unknown father(s) must answer the Petition to Terminate Parental Rights filed in the Family Court of Lee Co., AL by Lee Co DHR, within fourteen (14) days from the last date of publication of this notice, or a final judgment may be rendered in the Family Court of Lee Co., AL terminating your parental rights and possibly

result in place said children for adoption.

Mary Roberson, CIRCUIT CLERK Lee County Justice Center 2311 Gateway Dr. Opelika, AL 36801 Hon. Margaret A. Mayfield Attorney for Lee County DHR P.O. Box 809 Opelika, AL 36801 (334) 745-0333 Legal Run 10/7/20, 10/14/20, 10/21/20 & 10/28/20

two more times to make the final score 57-20.

The Hornets remain confident as they prepare for Homecoming 2020. “We still control our own destiny” said Head Coach Rob Carter, “our guys will be ready to play on Homecoming.”

With the win, Tallassee improves to

2-4 overall and 2-1 in conference play, while Beauregard slipped to 2-5 overall and 1-3 in conference play.

Beauregard host the Sylacauga Aggies on Oct. 9, for Homecoming.

Beauregard High School is located at Alabama Highway 50 in Opelika.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. CST.

PUBLIC NOTICES FROM B11 _____ IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE CONSERVATORSHIP OF MARTHA NELL STRINGER. An Incapacitated Person CASE NO.: 2014-A-072 NOTICE OF PARTIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that

BEAUREGARD>>

FROM B6

re-take the lead 10-7. On Beauregard’s next series of downs, the Tigers intercepted QB Gavin Prickett’s pass and returned it to the Hornet 44 yard line. Back in the Wildcat formation, the Tigers scored again, but missed a 2-point conversion to increase their lead to 16-7.

After another Beauregard punt, Tallassee put together a 14-play drive, aided by a Hornet penalty, and scored but missed another two point conversion to make the score 22-7. Then, as quick as lightning, Beauregard’s WR/DB Tyler Gordon stung the Tigers as he took the kickoff and raced 75-yards for the touchdown to cut the lead to 22-14 at halftime.

To open the second half in quick fashion, the Tigers returned

Athera Kimble, Conservator of Martha Nell Stringer, an incapacitated person, has filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, her accounts, vouchers and statements for a Partial Settlement of the Conservatorship of Martha Nell Stringer covering the period from November 21, 2015 through August 20, 2020. A hearing has been set for the 27th day of October, 2020 at 1 o’clock

p.m. central time in the Court Room of the Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama.

CIRCUIT COURT OF LEE

COUNTY, AL FAMILY COURT DIVISION: JUVENILE IN THE MATTER OF: K.T.M. (05/16/2019) R.P.M. (05/13/2020) – minor children JU-2020-019.02: JU-2020-134.02 NOTICE TO: Any unknown father(s) of the minor children listed above. Custody of the minor child K.T.M was vested with Lee County DHR on 02/19/2020 and

the kickoff to the Beauregard 8-yard line.

One play later and the Tigers had stretched their lead to 29-14.

After an unsuccessful on-sides kick attempt by the Tigers, Beauregard offense set up shop on their own 46-yard line, but were forced to punt after only three plays. Two plays and

another Hornet penalty later, and Tallassee had scored again to make the score 36-14 with nine minutes to go in the third quarter.

The Tigers then attempted another onsides kick, this time recovering it and forcing the tired Hornet defense back on the field where the Tigers scored

again to run the score to 43-14.

To their credit, the Hornets continued to battle, as they always do. They managed to put together an impressive drive of their own, scoring on a QB draw to make it 43-20, but in the end, a tired Hornet defense just couldn’t stop the Tigers who scored

Done this the 29 day of September 2020.

BILL ENGLISH Judge of Probate Legal Run 10/07/20, 10/14/20 & 10/21/20 ____

4184 Lee Road 146 Suite C, Auburn hivenutrition2020@gmail.com 334-750-2439

Offering loaded teas, healthy shakes and speciality drinks

B14 October 7, 2020

Opelika Rotary help maintain 100 Saucer Magnolias

Photo courtesy of Opelika Rotary

A few weekends ago, members of Opelika Rotary club joined together at Evergreen cemetery to tend to the 100 Saucer Magnolia trees we planted in 2019 in celebration of our club’s centennial year.

Kiwansis Club of Opelika names new officers

Photo courtesy of Kiwansis Club of Opelika

The newest officers of the Kiwansis Club of Opelika were announced recently. New officers are: President Mary Roberson, Vice President Anthony Terling, Treasurer Tiffany Simmons, and Secretary Robert Elliott. They also named their newest board members: Dianne Brennan, Christi Gibson and Matthew Lewis.

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

334-745-4618

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

This week’s puzzle answers: