pelika O Observer
Vol. 11, No. 01
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Opelika, Alabama
“By local people, for local people.”
Chamber of Commerce seeking volunteers, handmade floats for annual Christmas parade
Photo special to the Opelika Observer
‘First Man’ opens in theaters Friday By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor ‘First Man’ starring Ryan Gosling is set to open in theaters nationwide Friday. The movie is adapted from a book of the same name written by retired Auburn University Professor of History Dr. James Hansen. Published in 2005, Hansen’s book received a strong reception for its historical content and being Armstrong’s first-ever biography. Hundreds of hours interviewing Armstrong, as well as his family, friends
and colleagues, went into his efforts of compiling a story that is so deeply woven into the fabric of America. Universal Pictures purchased the film rights to the book in 2007. After years of searching for the right visionary, Academy Award winning filmmaker Damian Chazelle was chosen to transform the story into a Hollywood masterpiece. As the film’s co-producer, Hansen worked closely with screenwriter Josh Singer throughout the screenwriting process, an experienced See Movie, page A6
Opelika Sportsplex to host annual fall festival Oct. 30 By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Opelika’s Parks and Recreation Department and the Sportsplex are partnering together to host the beloved annual “Fall Festival and Children’s Carnival” Oct. 30 from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Nearly 1,500 people attended last year’s event, an occasion that provides parents and children with a family-friendly environment to play and enjoy the festivities, according OPR Public Relation Coordinator Laura Leigh Chesser. “This event is a safe alternative to trick-ortreating. It’s a great place to come, all fenced-in, well-lit, everything all in one spot, and there’s (plenty) for the kids to
do while they’re there,” Chesser said. There will be multiple booths offering children candy and games, a designated toddler area, hayrides, inflatables and more. Opelika High School mascots Ope and Lika will be in attendance along with members of the AuburnOpelika Stormtroopers group. Admission is free, but games require tickets, which cost 25 cents each. For $10, parents can purchase wristbands for their children for unlimited access to games and hayrides. Parents can also purchase their own wristband for $1 to accompany their children on the hayrides. See Festival, page A12
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor The Opelika Chamber of Commerce is actively seeking participants, sponsors and volunteers for this
committed to help and only eight floats have been entered into the parade to date with only nine days left until the registration deadline Oct. 19. Earlier this year,
a press release from the Chamber stated the organization was cancelling the parade and switching to a Christmas tree-lighting ceremony instead. Met See Parade, page A12
7th annual ‘March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction’ set for Nov. 8 Special to the Opelika Observer
One of the area’s most popular charity food events, the seventh annual “March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction,” will return Nov. 8 at 6 p.m. at The Hotel at Auburn University
and Dixon Conference Center. Prominent area chefs will prepare their signatures dishes created exclusively for the evening. A stellar lineup of chefs will be preparing unique dishes from 10 of the area’s most prominent res-
taurant, including A*T, Acre, Amsterdam Cafe, Butcher Paper Barbeque, Lucy’s, Marriott at Grand National, Stinky’s Fish Camp, The Hound, The Waverly Local and Zazu Gastropub. Following the tasting and silent
auction, there will be a spirited live auction featuring once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and the organization’s special “Fund the Mission.” “(The) Signature Chefs Auction is a unique opportunity to experience the diverse culinary talSee Chefs, page A7
Hagans to walk Nevada for annual shoe collection drive By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor
Opelika native and pastor Rick Hagans will embark on his 25th annual walk across the state of Nevada next week to collect shoes for the poor in Mexico. The 450-mile
Index
OPINION.....................................A4 COUNTY NEWS............................A5 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 CALENDAR................................A10
year’s Christmas parade, which is scheduled for Dec. 1. According to information provided by Chamber President Pam Powers-Smith, seven people have
Hagans journey will begin at Hoover Dam in
SPORTS.......................................B1 LEGALS ......................................B5 RELIGION..............................B13 ENTERTAINMENT......................B14
southeastern Nevada and conclude at Lake Tahoe on the state’s western boundary with California. Nevada marks the 39th state that Hagans will walk since 1993, which all began as a promise he made to a little boy in the im-
poverished town of Reynosa, who was wanting to exchange his toys for a pair of shoes. “I didn’t have any shoes to give him, so I said ‘I’ll come back, and I will bring you some shoes,” Hagan
See Hagans, page A12
pelika O Observer.com
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A2 October 10, 2018
Local civic clubs host Shane Kyles, Opelika Citizen’s Police Academy Jack Galassini as guest speakers Association inviting program graduates
to join and be involved in community Special to the Opelika Observer
Photo special to the Opelika Observer
Thursday's speaker was Shane Kyles of The Way 2 Serve Ministries. Pictured are Eric Canada, Shane Kyles and Russell Bush.
Photo special to the Opelika Observer Thursday's speaker was Jack Galassini of Concerned Citizens Organized for Police Support (cCOPs). Pictured are Jack Galassini and new club president, Bob Harris.
The Opelika Citizens Police Academy Association (CPA) executive committee is inviting graduates of the program to join the association and get involved in the community. The Opelika Police Department’s (OPD) Citizens Police Academy is held each spring. The initial class dates back some 18 years. The eightweek course is an opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the OPD and hear and feel what they face every day. This interactive course gives participants a chance to get to know officers from every area of the OPD. Sessions cover patrol, traffic, investigations (detectives and narcotics), SWAT, K-9 officers and FATS (fire arms training simulator). There is no cost to take the course and upon completion, a graduation event is held. Those who complete the course have the opportunity to join the CPA alumni group. “The Citizens Police
Academy is a tremendous opportunity for residents who are interested in learning more about our police department to do that in an intensive, face-to-face course,” said Opelika Police Chief John McEachern. “They will learn about the duties and assignments and get real insight into law enforcement on a local level. Participants get some of the same training we do and participate in some of the same drills and simulations our officers take part in. They are also invited to sit with our dispatchers at the station and ride along with on-duty officers.” The alumni group works tirelessly to give back to OPD police officers throughout the year. This group was formed two years ago and became an official 501c entity last year. Membership continues to grow. The goal of the alumni association is to help build and promote a strong police and community relationship, and to support and encourage the OPD throughout the year at events like the Fall
Festival, Christmas Parade, Cops on Top, D.A.R.E. Summer Camp and more. The members also feed the officers at a variety of community events such as Opelika High football games and the Victorian Front Porch Tour. McEachern encourages graduates to become part of the CPA association. Joining is easy. Simply visit the city’s website and join as a lifetime member or on a yearly basis. If people are interested in being a part of the 2019 CPA spring class or would like to make a financial donation to the foundation, visit their website. “My team appreciates the support and love that the members show throughout the year,” McEachern said. “It’s nice to see a smiling, familiar face in the crowd during the good and bad. These folks are always there to extend a helpful hand and we are grateful.” For more information, visit www. opelika-al.gov/676/ Opelika-CitizensPolice-AcademyAlumni-A.
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pelika O Observer Dr. Michael Aikens Dr. Michael Manogue becomes joins CVR practice area’s only electrophysiologist
A3
October 10, 2018
Special to the Opelika Observer The Center for Vein Restoration is proud to announce the addition of Dr. Michael L. Aikens to its expanding and esteemed roster of physicians treating venous disease throughout the country. Once opened this month, Aiken's practice in Opelika will be the second CVR location in Alabama alongside Dr. Kenneth Todd’s Dothan-based practice. Aikens comes to CVR after 26 years as a practicing cardiologist. He has been a staple of the Auburn-Opelika area since 2002, most recently as the owner and CEO of Opelika Cardiovascular and Associates, P.C. Aikens became interested in phlebology during his cardiology fellowship at University of Alabama at Birmingham. “What interests me most about venous disease is the
Aikens opportunity I have to improve people’s health and their lives. I can help stop this chronic disease,” Aikens said. Dr. Sanjiv Lakhanpal, CEO; Dr. Khanh Q. Nguyen, Corporate Medical Officer; Ken Abod, CFO and Neil Collier, Chief Operating Officer at CVR, said that they are all pleased to welcome Aikens to the company. “We are honored to be part of this community and serve to improve it,” added Lakhanpal said. Aikens' addition is another example of the practice's dedi-
cation to patient care. His past patients revere him for his impeccable bedside manner and his commitment to their positive health outcomes. “Dr. Aikens and his decades of experience, providing worldclass care to the people of Opelika will enable CVR to further our mission of ‘improve lives in the communities we serve by providing state-of-the-art vascular care in a compassionate and affordable manner,’” Lakhanpal said. Aikens’ accomplishments and accreditations also include: Former Managing Partner, East Alabama Cardiovascular & Associates Recipient, J. Claude Bennett Award for Excellence in Research Member, Association of Black Cardiologists. For more information, call 334-2031232.
By Vanessa Poulson For the Opelika Observer
Michael R. Manogue has joined the team at Pinnacle Cardiovascular Associates at the Bent Creek location in Auburn to become the area’s only cardiac electrophysiologist. After studying at The University of South Alabama College of Medicine, Manogue went on to complete his residency at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center and his fellowships at Emory University in cardiovascular disease and clinical electrophysiology. While at USA, Manogue was awarded the Clyde Huggins Medical Student Research Award and graduated with research honors. After most recently working in Atlanta, he said he is excited to join the team in the Auburn-Opelika area. Seventeen years of education after his high school graduation helped him reach his current position. “I am very excited
Manogue to bring the skills I have learned in fellowship to fill the need for a cardiac electrophysiologist in the Auburn/Opelika area,” Manogue said in an interview with East Alabama Medical Center. “My wife Erica and I can’t wait to raise our family in the area and become a part of the local community.” Manogue’s position itself is unique because cardiologists can help to diagnose and treat heart diseases, such as congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, heart rhythm disorders and heart failure. Electrophysiology specifically studies test the electrical activity of your heart to find where an arrhythmia is
coming from. Previous cardiac electrophysiologists in the area usually commuted from a larger city to do their work. Manogue's presence will help bridge a gap in the health community for Auburn-Opelika and the surrounding areas. “It is incredibly rewarding to use all of the skills and experience that I've gained throughout my training in providing a new level of cardiac care to the area. Every day is a fun challenge, and with each case, I come across a neat nuance to an arrhythmia that helps my job remain endlessly fascinating,” Manogue said. “I'm happy to be here in the East Alabama region to provide that continuity, and I very much enjoy educating my patients on the details of their arrhythmias, because I think it helps them care for themselves better." Manogue will practice at Pinnacle Cardiovascular Associates, which is located at 2375 Champions Blvd. To schedule an appointment, call 334466-4000.
A4 October 10, 2018
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The $93 Club
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the excuses and ratiohanksgiving nalizations that protect and Christmas so many of us from the are just around awful truth. It is easy the corner, the two to pay our taxes, suptimes of the year when port our churches, drop Americans celebrate a coin in the pot outthe bounty they have side the grocery store received. By Hardy Jackson door, and figure that is Only for some, there enough. is no bounty. Unfortunately, it isn’t. Most of you – most of us – have Today there are groups, the modjobs and are doing okay. At times, ern equivalents of those gentlemen we have to trim budgets in places, who visited Scrooge, that are trywe have had to be a little more ing to provide not only the necescareful with what goes out and sities and a little extra to remind what comes in, but when we look those in need that someone cares. at unemployment figures, we take Unfortunately, often this is not comfort in knowing that we are enough. among the working. Fortunately, there is a plan floatHowever, some folks are hurting around that may help. ing. It started during the great recesAnd the hurt becomes more sesion when Carolee Levick Hazard vere as Thanksgiving and Christsaw a woman, Jenni Ware, leave mas approach. her groceries at the checkout line. It is an old story, captured so Ms Hazard caught up with Ms well by Charles Dickens in “A Ware in the parking lot and disChristmas Carol,” the 1843 fable of redemption that makes so many covered that she could not pay for the groceries because she had left of us feel good every December. her wallet at another store. So Ms In it, Dickens tells of a group of men who visited Ebenezer Scrooge Hazard volunteered to put the bill for the groceries -- $207 – on her and told him that “during this festive time of the year . . . it is more credit card. Now as I understand it, there than usually desirable that we should make some slight provision was no guarantee that she would get the money back, but she did, for the poor and destitute, who for shortly a check for $300 arsuffer greatly at the present time. rived with a note telling her to take Many thousands are in want for the extra and do something nice common necessities; hundreds of for herself. thousands are in want of common And that is what she did. But comforts, sir.” instead of a pedicure or some Scrooge’s reply was blunt. “I new shoes, she told the story on can’t afford to make idle people Facebook and announced that she merry.” As far as he was conplanned to match the extra $93 and cerned, he paid taxes to support the welfare system and that was all contribute $186 to the local food bank. The next day, a dozen of her he intended to do. friends had also made $93 pledges. The gentlemen tried to reason The result is the “93 Dollar Club with Scrooge. They told the miser that because the little relief his tax (Google it) which asks people to donate in increments of 93. money provided hardly brought the spirit of Christmas to families The donations have ranged from $9,300 to $.93 (from Hazard’s that were suffering, he and a few others were “endeavouring to raise 9-year old neighbor). So far they have raised nearly $110,000 and a fund to buy the poor some meat funded over 220,000 meals for and drink, and means of warmth” the Second Harvest Food Bank of during the season. But Scrooge Santa Clara and San Mateo Counwas not moved. ties in California. The gentlemen persisted. “We The idea has spread, and now choose this time of year, because it is a time, of all others, when Want there are $93 Clubs on other states and other cities. is keenly felt, and Abundance So take the challenge. Find a rejoices.” club or organize one. Donate what Not that Scrooge cared. And you can – from $.93 on up – to let when he was told that some of the poor would rather die than become them know that you support what they are doing and want to help. wards of the state, his reply rings Scrooge might not have done it, through the ages. but you can. “If they would rather die, they Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson had better do it, and decrease the is Professor Emeritus of History surplus population.” at Jacksonville State University . Now none of us, I hope, would He can be reached at hjackson@ be so callous. However, in his cableone.net. response, Scrooge strips away all
M
y mind is cloudy. I am having a horrible time trying to figure out what to write because I cannot concentrate. Hang on, let me grab a Kleenex. I am looking out of one eye at the moment because the other one is swollen shut. I have a table cluttered with any and all types of holistic and over the counter cold/allergy medications you can imagine. I have used essential oils. I have even tried the old fashioned whiskey with honey and lemon drink. I’m actually sipping on that now. This is my first Autumn out here in the country. It’s 110 degrees, and I’ve got a si-
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Pastime
He seemed satisfied by am listening to baseball this. He pushed my cart, on the radio. Two dogs moving slow. We talked are sleeping around my about players, pitchers, feet. The New York Yankees and scores. are battling the Boston Red And fathers. Sox in the division playoffs. He grew up outside Chances are, you don’t Oberlin, Ohio, listening to care about baseball—and I By Sean Dietrich games with his dad, in the don’t blame you. But this front of a gray Studebaker. column isn’t about baseball. “We used to go for drives,” he said. Tonight, I promised myself I “During the World Series, Dad would wouldn’t write about baseball. Too always fill up his tank, buy me some many people already write about it. Sure, I grew up with baseball. It was jelly beans, we’d just drive, listening to games.” in my drinking water. My father ate, They zipped through hayfields, rural breathed, and read about it. And when parts, small towns. Whiskyville, Amautumn rolled around, I remember herst, and Lorain flew past their winhim listening to October baseball like dows until they hit Lake Eerie. There, some men listened to preaching. they would park, and listen, and watch My father would park his truck in the driveway. We sat in the front seat, boats. He remembers when the Bronx listening to a radio. The sun was high. Crickets whined. My father explained Bombers and the Milwaukee Braves battled in ‘58. He remembers when plays while sipping beer. And I felt Cincinatti lost to the Yanks in ‘60. He like the most important human on the remembers that after Cincinnati’s deplanet. But like I said, this isn’t about base- feat he began crying. He was twelve. “I was so embarrassed I cried in ball. front of my dad,” he said. “Boys I remember the fall evening when didn’t do that back then. But my dad he said, “One day, you’ll listen to just hugged me and said, ‘Don’t cry, these games without me.” Bobby, you win some and you lose And silence filled the truck. His eyes became glassy after he said some.’” The memory means a lot to him. it. Then, he tousled my hair. And I’ll But it is not the memory of a game never forget this: he offered me his we share. It is of men, and heroes, and beer. their proverbs, and their ghosts. To the rest of the world I was a My father has been dead a long child. But that night, in his eyes, I was a man. I held the can with both hands. time, but nothing brings him back to life like the sound of a seventh-inning I took a swig. It tasted like frog urine. crowd. During games, I see him. I I almost gagged. don’t just remember him, nor do I He laughed. “When you’re older, it imagine. He is in my eyes. Right here. won’t taste so bad.” “Dad’s been dead fifty-one years,” I am sipping a beer right now, listening to WCCM 1940 AM radio. The the old man said. “But you never stop thinking about them.” Sox are fighting. I don’t particularly I tipped the man for helping me with care about the Sox, and I care even groceries that I should’ve carried myless for the Yanks. But anxieties are self. Then, he pointed to my hat. high. The championship is riding on “Go Braves,” he said. their shoulders. Thusly, I require anI pointed to his lapel pin. “Go other can of frog pee. Cleveland,” I said. Earlier today, I went to the grocery We shook hands. He hobbled tostore for tonight’s supplies. Namely: ward the store. And in an ironic stroke Chili Cheese Fritos, Stouffer’s Lasaof fate, his gait resembled the man gna, roasted peanuts, and beer. who taught me to swing a bat. The An elderly man was bagging my slight hitch in his get-along. Slight groceries. He had white hair and liver spots. I’m guessing mid-seventies. He bend in his neck. Slight jerkiness to noticed my Braves cap. And I noticed each step. I drove home. I turned on the game. the familiar look on his face when he Then, I opened a can of beer. I know said, “You think the Braves can do it I said I wasn’t going to write about this year?” When all my groceries were bagged, baseball. Oh well. he offered to help me to the car. All You win some and you lose some. bag-boys have to ask this. It’s store Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and policy. novelist, known for his commentary on This man was at least forty years older than me. His skinny arms looked life in the American South. His work has appeared in Southern Living, like they might snap if they carried the Tallahassee Democrat, Southern anything over four pounds. Magazine, Yellowhammer News, the Then I noticed a Cleveland Indians Bitter Southerner, the Mobile Press lapel pin on his apron. Register and he has authored seven So I answered, “Yeah, I could use books. help.”
Feathers or Flowers? except for nus infection. one thing. I We haven’t am living in bought any the midst of pumpkins every beauyet, because tiful stalk I’m not sure of goldthey would withstand By Lucy Winn Fuller enrod and ragweed this Alabama known to heat. We will man. I’m sure of it. most likely have to Nothing makes me wait until a few days before Halloween, like happier than to see the yellow fields of wildusual. I’ve already flowers and the rich made some pumpkin golden hue that makes bread and have all of my favorite Halloween the earth glow with pride. Nothing makes movies pulled out to watch. I’ve dusted off me sneeze more, either. I’ve had sinus my boots that I will problems in the past wear with my favorbut this takes it to a ite jeans and sweater, whole new level. eventually. Welcome Growing up in the to Alabama’s version Auburn-Opelika area of fall. wasn’t exactly country Nothing about this living. Honestly, its year is any different than the years before it not even close.
Excuse me, I have got to grab another tissue and cough drop. Just the other day, Jody and I were driving past this beautiful stretch of land on Elder Rd where there is a large patch of wildflowers. I stopped the car so that I could take some pictures of them. They were intoxicatingly beautiful. If I had to describe my heaven, I would imagine those flowers being there. Black Eyed Susans, Golden Rod, Ragweed… Achoo! If I had just stayed in the car that day I’m sure I would be fine, but I just had to experience the wildflowers firsthand. The moment my feet hit the ground and I began walking
through the ocean of gold, I felt as if I was in a fairytale. I felt as if I was in the scene of a movie where the young maiden runs barefoot through the field of flowers in her white gown, or better yet, rides her white horse (bareback) through the field of yellow goodness, chasing the sun. I quickly remembered who and where I was when my phone rang. Technology can be such a bummer sometimes. I took as many pictures as I could and returned to my car. On the way home I noticed any and all flowers that were growing on the side of the road or scattered through the surround-
ing pastures. I wanted so badly to pick them all and litter my house with them. I have a love of old bottles. One of my favorite things to do with those old bottles is to stuff them with feathers or flowers. I have quite the collection of bird feathers that I have found on our daily hikes. My favorite is my Red Tail Hawk collection. I display each feather proudly in my kitchen window so that I see them at all times. I also love to bring home flowers, Spring through Fall, and display them around our home. I love looking at them and reminiscing over the small memory each See Fuller, page A10
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A5
Around Lee County
October 10, 2018
11th annual ‘Sweet Homes for Leadership Lee County Alabama’ campaign starts today 2018-19 session underway Special to the Opelika Observer Local church pastors and business leaders are uniting together with Alabama Rural Ministry for their 11th Annual Sweet Homes for Alabama campaign beginning Oct. 10. ARM Executive Director Lisa Pierce will live in a makeshift shack for up to six days. Other business leaders will commit to three hours or an overnight stay in another shack next to Pierce’s. The goal is to raise awareness about poverty housing in our local area and throughout Alabama, provide efforts for people to volunteer to help repair homes, and raise $100,000 to help with the cost of materials for repairing these homes. More than 100 area families on the organization’s home-repair list are requesting help. With a housing shortage of 90,000 housing units in Alabama and a declining housing stock with our elderly, the need is always great.
The shacks will be in front of the Auburn University Wesley Foundation, located at 131 S. Gay St. Pierce and shack dwellers will have information about poverty in Alabama, specifically Lee and Macon counties. Auburn University students will also have a display on campus to encourage students to volunteer and give. Children are encouraged to participate too. With a $5 donation, they can paint on part of the shack, learn about home repair needs and service and take their paint brush home. Why shacks and what happens there? Pierce will live in a small shack that is just large enough to fit a twin mattress, which will become her home for several days. She sleeps there and stays in the shack whether rain, shine, hot or cold. People bring her meals and share in them with her. Another shack is set up for people to stay with her for three-four hour blocks
of time to help spread the word. This shack has room for two small mattresses, allowing for others to stay overnight, providing an experience comparable to the struggles that lowincome families face, particularly during stormy weather. ARM is a 501(c)3, faithbased organization that serves families through home repair and children’s ministry. Each year, they repair 20-30 homes for area families. Most of the work includes roof repair, floor repair, and building handicap-accessible features. The families that they serve with tend to be elderly, disabled or single parents. Volunteers complete 95 percent of all the repairs, and they host approximately 1,000 volunteers per year. For more information, visit www.arm-al. org, email Pierce at lisa@ arm-al.org or call 334501-4276. ARM’s Opelika office is located at 200 26th St.
Auburn’s Machen McChesney ranks as one of nation’s largest accounting firms Special to the Opelika Observer In a recent ranking of the nation’s 400 largest accounting firms conducted by INSIDE Public Accounting, Auburn’s Machen McChesney was ranked 356th. Marty Williams, the firm’s managing partner, said he and his staff were humbled by the recognition. “I am very proud of the firm to be part of this list. It is well in line with the firm's growth and client service plan and it is great to see the correlation between the services we offer and value we return to our clients and where we stand on this national list,” Williams said. The 400 selected firms will be listed in
IPA’s October newsletter. This definitive list was developed by gathering information from firms that completed IPA’s Survey and Analysis of Firms. Many professional associations also aided in the search for firms to add to the list. As the profession continues to grow and evolve, IPA will evolve with it. The firm was also recognized in July 2018 by Business Alabama as the 21st largest accounting firm in Alabama. About Machen McChesney: Machen McChesney is a business advisory firm with a history of Returning Value to its individual and business clients through proactive accounting, audit and assurance, business tax and advisory, business
valuation, family and elder care, individual tax planning and consulting and outsourced bookkeeping services. From its headquarters in Auburn, the firm is committed to returning value to its clients throughout Alabama and the United States. Machen McChesney is part of a family of services, including FocusPay Solutions (focuspaysolutions.com) and Wealth Management Services and is a member of the BDO Alliance USA, a nationwide association of independently owned, high-quality local and regional accounting firms. For more information, visit www. machenmcchesney. com. The firm is located at 1820 E. University Drive in Auburn.
BEAUREGARD DRUGS
Photo special to the Opelika Observer Pictured are members of the 2018-19 class of Leadership Lee County at a recent social function. By Vanessa Poulson For the Opelika Observer This fall’s Leadership Lee County class is in full swing. Participants in the class learn valuable and practical skills for the growing world of business and leadership through a variety of different training experiences and team-building exercises. Throughout the course, there is an intense focus on local and state government, nonprofits, the health sector, economic development, agriculture, education, higher education and more. Participants come away with new means of problemsolving, working well with different types of people, leading leaders, and community involvement. Following is a list of this session's participants: Melissa Adams Gina Allen Pete Arnold Ken Busby Charria Campbell Davina Casey Lindsay Crosby Vanessa Darden Blair DeCoux
Rose Fabry Brandon Faircloth Tara Harbison Shane Healey Luanne Helms Christie Hill Dwyaine Jackson Joe Janning Jake Lashley Yvette Lowe Nancy McDonald Cora McGriff Bill McGuire Katie Murray Genia Odom Blake Otwell Matt Persons Brent Poteet Rusty Prewett Kristen Reeder John-Michael Roehm Melanie Roehm Crystal Russell Megan Sumners Applicants for the program are evaluated on a variety of different standards, including the basis of ability, demonstrated an interest in the community and potential for responsible and effective leadership. Those selected for the program not only get to participate in a variety of different courses, but also get to meet various contacts that they may not have otherwise had access to. The class also works on a service
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project before their graduation in May. Service projects vary from year to year, from organizing the first Auburn-Opelika Air Show to renovating the nature trail at the Lee County Youth Development Center or building a playground for the Twin Cedars Child Advocacy Center. Class members have to rise to the challenge of coordinating passions, talents, and resources that each diverse class brings to plan and execute these projects, and even to fund them, to benefit nonprofits and the entire community. Applications for Leadership Lee County are available by May 1 each year and are due by midJuly. The Leadership Lee County website (www.leadershipleecounty.org) and Facebook page can be utilized to find out when the applications are available. The Opelika and Auburn chambers of commerce have this information and publish it each year for those interested in applying.
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pelika O Observer
A6 October 10, 2018
Mayor Gary Fuller provides update to public on status of Commission on Crime and Violence By Mayor Gary Fuller Special to the Opelika Observer
Hello Opelika A quick update from the Commission on Crime and Violence. We’ve had two very productive meetings thus far. The commission is made up of 32 citizens and our goal is to form four subcommittees with eight members on each. The four focus areas are: • Families
Movie,
from A1 he described last week in a Q&A session following a private screening that was arranged for Auburn University students. “Josh had just come off winning an Academy Award for his work on ‘Spotlight,’ so all of a sudden, I realize an acclaimed screenwriter is writing a screenplay based on my book. I was given a chance to review everything, every draft of the script,” Hansen said. “As exciting as it was,
• Youth • Education • Resources We want to begin the process of rebuilding the nuclear family which is the basic social unit consisting of parents and their children living in one household. We cannot legislate good parenting, but we can work on strategies and programs to strengthen the family. Regarding youth, too many children are without parents or others
to teach them right from wrong. How can we engage youth to show them the moral value of hard work and study? We must work with our schools to encourage students to not drop out and to understand the value of a high school education. Our education committee will address these issues. Concerning resources, this covers a variety of entities -Churches, DHR, Boys & Girls Clubs, the Court
system, as well as other agencies. We do not have a quick-fix or overnight solution. It’s going to require a lot of work by committee members and it will take time. We didn’t get like this overnight and we won’t correct it overnight, either. I want to thank all of our committee members for committing their hearts and time to help our community: Derric Baker
getting to be on set every day, it was really stressful for me because I felt a really strong responsibility to Armstrong and the story and keeping it as accurate as possible.” While filming, Hansen added that Chazelle took painstaking efforts to create an experience for viewers that felt authentic and believable. “Instead of a green screen, blue screen or black screen, or blank where a lot of CGI films are made that way, Damian actually had moving imagery of the sky that was all there. And that was all done on a sound-
stage in Atlanta,” Hansen said. “... and how to do all the (filming processes and techniques), it took months and months (of planning) to do that.” Chazelle and his team’s work paid off, as the film has received an abundance of rave reviews from movie critics and groups worldwide. “‘First Man’" is so immersive in its glitchy, hurtling, melting-metal authenticity that it makes a space drama like ‘Apollo 13’ look like a puppet show,” Owen Gleiberman wrote in a review for Variety Magazine. “Astonishing. The
definitive take on a monumental moment in history - without ever losing sight of the man underneath the visor,” reads an excerpt from an article by Empire Online writer Josh Nugent. The film is also trending well with audiencebased movie-scoring sites, with scores of 89 and 83 percent favorability ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic, respec-
Matthew McClammey John McEachern Joey Motley Joseph Murray Dr. Mark Neighbors Patsy Parker Oscar Penn Anthony Pogue Michael Roberts Jack Robinson Eddie Smith Henrietta Snipes Jake Walker Robin Wilson Jimmy Wright. For more information, visit www.opelika-al. gov.
Russell Bush Valerie Canady Kenneth Carter Laura Cooper Chris Nunn Rachel Dennis Tiffany Gibson-Pitts Jeremy Gray Antoine Harvis Dwight Howard Brian Henderson Keith A. Brown Clifford Jones Patsy Jones Bobby Kilgore Leigh Krehling Richard LaGrand Greg Leikvold
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer tively. Check with local the-
aters for availability and showtimes.
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Opelika E vents, Society, & Food
U PC OM I NG EVENT S: • Comedy Competition • 21 acres murder mystery • Alzheimer’s walk • nonprofit summit • March of dime celebrity chef’s dinner
Former personal chef shares recipes for autumn entertaining Ann Cipperly’s
Southern
Hospitality
C
arol Duncan has a love of cooking and can’t remember a time when she wasn’t cooking for herself or family. When she was 40 years old, Duncan took her cooking to a new level by becoming a personal chef and teaching cooking classes. While she is now teaching kitchen safety to restaurant workers for ServSafe, Duncan continues to have a fondness for opening her home for hospitality. Duncan grew up in Auburn where both
sides of her family enjoyed cooking, She has many, wonderful memories surrounding food with her grandparents and also her mother. She learned a great deal about cooking from both of her grandmothers, who lived in south Alabama. Duncan would visit one set of grandparents on their farm, where she sat on the front porch shelling peas with them during summer. There would always be southern favorites for Sunday
dinners, such as fried chicken with vegetables fresh from the garden. Although her paternal grandmother “Mimi” didn’t enjoy cooking as much, she enjoyed making gourmet food creations using marzipan for fun projects at her antebellum home. When Duncan was growing up, she had an Easy Bake Oven and baked cookies and made candy. In high school, she enjoyed cooking for her parents. She never thought
Photo special to the Opelika Observer Carol Duncan was a personal chef for 13 years and taught cooking classes. She is now teaching restaurant workers kitchen safety and sanitation for ServSafe. Carol has a life time long love of cooking. She is sharing favorite recipes for tailgating and entertaining at home.
about being a chef when she was going to school. She graduated from Auburn University in education and received a master’s degree in public administration from the University of South Alabama. After Duncan and her husband, Bobby, married, they lived in several places before returning to the area. When they lived
in Mobile, Duncan learned how to prepare seafood and Cajun/Creole dishes, which have remained favorites. She taught school for several years. When she was 40 years old, Duncan realized she would like to be a chef. Instead of going to culinary school, which would have taken a long time, she attended the United States Personal Chef Institute in
Atlanta, Georgia. The school taught details of the work with some cooking. She was already an excellent cook. She made friends at the personal chef school, and they still get together to cook once in a while. She attended conferences every year and met Alton Brown at one See Recipes, page A9
Association of Christmas Village returns Accredited Investors for 2018 holiday season Monthly Lunch-andLearn
Letts Special to the Opelika Observer The International Association of Accredited Investors (IAAI) held the 5 th meeting of the Auburn-Opelika Chapter Sept. 20 at the Saugahatchee Country Club. During previous lunch-and-learn sessions, a variety of professionals spoke to the attendees on topics including income producing real estate sales and subsequent tax advantaged exchanges, managed futures and hedge funds, oil and gas exploration programs and advanced money management services. The September lunchand-learn concen-
trated in the area of real estate investment trusts (REITs). IAAI was formed in 2016 with the primary purpose of becoming the premier source of valuable information for the accredited investor. Monthly lunch-and-learn meetings are an important source of this valuable information and IAAI never sells or endorses the variety of presenting companies. To learn more about the IAAI Auburn/ Opelika chapter and to receive an invitation to a future lunchand-learn event, contact John Letts at 630-215-6417. There is no charge and lunch is provided.
By Vanessa Poulson For the Opelika Observer
The 2018 Christmas Village is set to return this holiday season with plenty of festive, unique and beautiful gifts sure to please everyone’s wishlist. At the 2018 Christmas Village, shoppers will find more than 50 vendors including locally made furniture and woodworking products, homemade candies, goat milk soaps, boutique clothes,
Chefs,
from A1 ent in the AuburnOpelika area while celebrating and supporting a great cause,” said Event Chair Karen Hughes and Executive Leadership Team members Ryan Edwards and Annie Williams. “We are thrilled and honored to have this gifted group of chefs joining us in our mission to lead the fight for the health of all moms and babies.” Funds raised by the Signature Chefs Auction help support research, lead programs and pro-
handcrafted jewelry, handmade signs and wreaths, etched glass, skin care, locally cut meat and other food products. Participants for this year’s event include Kids Clothes Connection and Take 2 Boutiques. Housed inside of a 28,000 sq. ft. facility, the event will feature handmade Christmas decor, candies, jewelry, skincare and other unique products. After the success of the 2017 Christmas Village event, which featured nearly 35
vide advocacy and education so that every baby can have the best possible start. Today, 1-in-10 babies in the United States is born premature, including 1-in-9 in Alabama, equaling approximately 136 each week. March of Dimes is committed to working to improve the health of every mom and baby. In addition to Gold Sponsor, Real Estate in Auburn, sponsors of note include Silver Sponsors Leonard Peterson & Co., Three-Sixty Real Estate, Auburn Electrical Construction Co., Davis, Bingham, Hudson &
vendors, local residents helped provide the support necessary for 2018 to be put into motion. The event continues to be the best place for shoppers to meet the local artisans and ask questions about the products and the people making them. “The Christmas Village is a unique holiday experience that has such a wide variety of unique and beautiful gifts ... we are your one stop shop for your Christmas list,” said Jennifer Hostetter of the
Buckner, Ryan Edwards Real Estate, Nash Dermatology, Briggs and Stratton, East Alabama Allergy & Asthma/ HydraMed Infusion, Max Credit Union/ Land and Lake Real Estate. Bronze sponsors are J. Smith Lanier & Co., TownePlace Suites, B&B Bartending and media sponsors are the Opelika Observer and OpelikaAuburn News. Tables of 10 for the event are $1,500 and individual tickets for the event are $100 per person. For more information, visit signaturechefs. org/eastalabama or call 334-513-7381. About March of Dimes
Village Event Center. Opening day for the 2018 Christmas Village is Oct. 26 from 3-7 p.m. The other days of operation are Oct. 27 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Oct. 28 from 1:30 5:30 p.m. There is a $3 entrance fee for the event and all proceeds go to help support the Big House Foundation, a nonprofit designed to help children in foster care. The venue is located at 804 Columbus Parkway.
March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. We support research, lead programs and provide advocacy and education so that every baby can have the best possible start. Building on a successful 80-year legacy of impact and innovation , we empower every mom and every family. Visit marchofdimes.org or nacersano.org for more information. Visit shareyourstory.org for support and comfort. Find us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram or Twitter.
pelika O Observer
A8 October 10, 2018
Opelika native receives major nursing award By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor
Opelika native and UAB Hospital’s Chief Nursing Officer Terri Poe was named the recipient of the 2018 “Outstanding Nursing Administrator Acadame or Service Award” from the Alabama State Nurses Association last week. Poe appeared at the 2018
ASNA Annual Convention held last week in Opelika, to receive the award and provide Friday’s key-note address titled “A Personal Leadership Journey.” “Being UAB Hospital’s CNO and doing what I’ve done during my nursing career was never on my radar. I really just wanted to be a rockstar ER nurse my whole life, and I just kept
having more and more opportunities presented which I took and (ultimately) led me to this,” Poe said. Poe’s inspiration to join the medical field stemmed from her background and involvement for her family’s pharmacy as a child and teenager. After high school, Poe followed her dreams of a career in the medical field,
starting as a nursing major at Auburn University before transferring to UAB. Graduating from UAB in 1986, Poe started working in the emergency room of Lloyd Noland Hospital in Fairfield, Alabama. Two jobs and 23 years later, she returned to UAB as Director of Emergency Services. Since returning to Birmingham in 2009, she
completed her doctorate degree in nursing, was hired as the hospital’s CNO and appointed as the assistant dean for nursing practice at UAB’s School of Nursing. As the hospital’s CNO, Poe is responsible for 5,000 employees (3,600 nurses) at the 1,157-bed facility. She said she strives to maintain updated nursing
procedures and ensure that they are upheld throughout the hospital. “I believe that (two of) the best aspects of nursing is the building of long-term relationships and working together in teams to get things done,” Poe said. For more information about the award and ASNA, visit alabamanurses.org/convention/.
‘Feed the Children’ event held Saturday in Auburn
Photo by Feed the Children
Special to the Opelika Observer
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Members of Feed the Children, Nature Made and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lee County partnered to feed and assist 800 area families in need. Families gathered at the Frankie B. King Center in Auburn Oct. 6. Each family was pre-identified based on need by the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lee County. Participating families received a 25-pound box of shelf-stable food such as canned vegetables, macaroni and cheese and
peanut butter, as well as a 15-pound box of essentials including items such as shampoo, razors and toothpaste, and Nature Made vitamins. The provided food and essentials will help families in need of basic materials most people take for granted. During the event, Nature Made had registered dietitians on-site to meet with parents and provide important food and nutrition education. In addition, families enjoyed a community partner fair where they had the opportunity to receive additional information about health, education and
employment resources and support in their area. Through these collaborative efforts, the organizations provide a holistic health and wellness experience by providing long-term support to some of the country’s most vulnerable citizens. “At Nature Made, we believe in the importance of starting healthy habits early in life, and we’re proud to help families and children in our local communities,” said Andrea Theodore, Nature Made's chief marketing officer. “Feed the Children is the perfect partner for us and our initiatives as we provide vital access to nutrition education and help bridge nutrient gaps in families most in need.” “We recognize hunger can’t be fought alone, but by working together, we can provide food and essentials to millions of children and families who live in poverty,” said Travis Arnold, president and chief executive officer of Feed the Children. “Hope for a better future is made possible thanks to our partners at Nature Made.” The event is part of a three-year partnership between Nature Made, a leading national vitamin and supplement brand, and Feed the Children. The organizations are joining forces to fight hunger and make a significant difference in the lives of American families.
pelika O Observer Recipes,
from A7 conference. Duncan was a personal chef for 13 years and also taught cooking classes, including cooking classes for children at Ft. Benning. After she retired as a chef, she taught culinary arts at Auburn High school for three years. For the past two years, Carol has been teaching part-time for ServSafe, a national restaurant association. She teaches restaurant workers kitchen safety and sanitation. She has taught at local restaurants and across the south. This has given her more time with their two grandchildren, Jack, who is three and Gaines who is one year old. The Duncans have three sons, Jay, Will and Miles, who are all married and live in Birmingham. Growing up the sons didn’t have much interest in food, but now they enjoy cooking and dining at the dinner table with their family. Bobby works as vice president of construction for MIHADA. While Carol is still working in the food industry, she has more time for cooking at home and entertaining. These days, she finds having people over is more causal and relaxed. They often dine at a table on the deck. She is sharing recipes for fall entertaining at home and tailgating. “It is always nice to have something you can do ahead of time,” she says, “that you can have in a tin ready to pick up and walk out the door for tailgating.” Blue Cheese Coins is one her easy, makeahead recipes. The mixture is rolled and frozen. When needed, they are simply thawed, sliced and baked. They store well in tins. She has been making the Roasted Stuffed Mushrooms for 20 years. The filling can be prepared ahead and frozen. She will freeze the filling in a plastic bag and flatten it out, so that it will thaw quickly.
Smokey Black Bean and Pumpkin Soup 1 Tbsp. olive oil 30 oz. black beans rinsed, drained 15 oz. tomato diced, drained 1 cup onion, chopped 4 large garlic cloves, minced 2 tsp. cumin or more 1 tsp. smoked paprika Sea salt and freshly cracked pepper 1/4 tsp. chipotle chili powder 15 oz. pumpkin filling, unsweetened puree 4 cups low sodium chicken base 1/4 cup sherry dry 1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar ½ cup cilantro, minced Puree beans and
When they go to the beach or mountains, she will take the frozen filling and purchase mushrooms there. It is one of her favorites. When she was a personal chef, she made the Raisin Bread Pudding with Cranberries and Pecans often for dessert. “Once you put that Warm Butter Bourbon Cream Sauce on top,” she said, “it is heavenly.” Roasted Pork with Plums and a Honey Lemon Sauce is one of her perfect entrées for a fall dinner party. When entertaining, she keeps it simply and will have as much done ahead as possible. She prepares a few dishes, and friends will bring food. Duncan feels entertaining is easy when you are organized. She suggests having your recipes in plastic sheets in a notebook. Before cooking, conduct an inventory to see what you have on hand. She keeps frozen meat and prepared dishes on hand to pull out on hectic days. She shops for the freezer first. When their sons were growing up, she would do a weekly menu. Now that she cooks for two, she plans menus for three days at a time. She has a notebook with menus, and sometimes Bobby will grocery shop. “Staying organized and having a system makes it easier to cook,” Duncan said. “With the pantry organized, I can glance at it to see if anything needs replacing.” Being organized allows her to entertain more. “I love food and love people who love food,” she added. “It seems people who love food have other things in common. My chef friends all love food, dogs, animals and wine. When you have a group of people with so much in common you have a soul connection, Duncan said. “People who love food have a passion for other people who love food. It has been fun connecting with them.” Ann Cipperly can be contacted at recipes@ cipperly.com.
tomatoes with immersion blender or in a regular blender. Leave it slightly chunky. Add olive oil to a large sauce pan and heat slightly. Add onions and sauté without browning them. When they are translucent add garlic cumin, smoked paprika, sea salt, cracked black pepper and chipotle chili powder and sauté for about 1 minute. Stir in bean/tomato puree, canned pumpkin, chicken broth and sherry and balsamic vinegar. Simmer for about 15 minutes, covered. Garnish with cilantro. Serves 4 to 6.
Bar Nuts a la NYC’s Union Square Café 1 ½ cups cashews, unsalted 1 ½ cups pecans, unsalted 1 ½ cups walnuts, unsalted 1 ½ cups hazelnuts, unsalted 6 Tbsp. fresh rosemary leaves, minced 1 Tbsp. cayenne pepper 2 Tbsp. dark brown sugar 2 Tbsp. kosher salt 3 Tbsp. butter Place nuts on a large baking sheet. Toast in a preheated 350 oven until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Rotate pan halfway through. In a small saucepan, melt butter and add rosemary leaves, cayenne, brown sugar and salt. Be careful not to cook this beyond just melting the butter and blending ingredients. Remove nuts from the oven and toss with butter mixture in a bowl. Makes 6 cups nuts. Sun Dried Tomato Pesto for Tortellini 6 oz. oil packed sun dried tomatoes 1/2 cup Romano or Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup fresh basil or 1 Tbsp. dried 2 Tbsp. pine nuts, toasted 3 large garlic cloves 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Tri colored tortellini, cooked Drain sun dried tomatoes and then add all ingredients to food processor and blend. Serve as a dip for tortellini. Makes 2 cups. Note: I buy decorative picks at World Market to use to dip tortellini in pesto. Braised Cabbage with Honeycrisp Apples and Cinnamon 1 1/2 cups onion, sliced into thin rings 6 cups cabbage, sliced thinly 1/3 cup red wine vinegar 2 Tbsp. sugar 2 medium bay leaf 1 tsp. cinnamon 2 medium Honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced Salt and pepper Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion; sauté 5 minutes. Stir in cabbage, vinegar, sugar, bay leaf and cinnamon stick; cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes or until cabbage is tender. Stir in sliced apples, salt and pepper; cover and cook 5 minutes. Discard bay leaves and cinnamon stick. Serves 4 to 6. Raisin Bread Pudding with Cranberries, Pecans and Warm Butter Bourbon Cream Sauce 4 large eggs 1 cup whole milk 1 cup whipping cream 1/4 cup sugar 1 tsp. vanilla 1/4 tsp. salt pinch 8 oz. cinnamon raisin bread 8 pieces day old, Pepperidge Farm, 1/2 inch pieces, one half loaf 1/2 cup cranberries, dehydrated 1/2 cup pecan halves toasted and chopped Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Butter an 8-inch square baking dish. Whisk first 6 ingredients in medium bowl. Place bread, pecans and cranberries in prepared dish. Pour milk mixture over and let stand 5 minutes. Make sure bread is immersed in milk mixture. If possible, refrigerate for 12 hours or overnight. Place bread pudding in large metal baking pan. Add enough hot water to baking pan to come 1 inch up sides of dish with bread pudding. Bake for about 50 minutes or until it is nicely browned on top. Remove dish with bread pudding from water and cool slightly. Cut into squares. Serve bread pudding warm with Bourbon Sauce. Serves 6 to 8. Warm Butter Bourbon Sauce 1/4 cup butter, unsalted 1/2 cup sugar 3 Tbsp. whipping cream 2 Tbsp. bourbon whiskey 1/4 tsp. salt Add all ingredients into a small saucepan and heat until butter is melted and then remove from heat so sauce does not reduce further.
A9 October 10, 2018 Blue Cheese Coins I make several batches at a time and freeze them rolled up in plastic wrap. Then, I thaw them in the refrigerator and slice and bake. 1/2 lb. blue cheese (stilton is good!) 1/2 lb. butter unsalted (2 sticks), at room temperature 1/2 tsp. sea salt 1/2 Tbsp. cayenne 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped, or pecans Preheat oven to 350. Sift dry ingredients. In a mixer, cream butter and cheese. Add dry ingredients and mix to combine. With a spoon fold in nuts and roll into log inside plastic wrap. Refrigerate until firm. To bake: Slice thinly and bake on a cookie sheet for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let cool on racks. Store in tins. Makes about 50. Roasted Mushrooms Stuffed with Bacon, Feta and Cream Cheese 8 oz. bacon 1 cup onion, small dice 10 oz. baby spinach, chopped 4 oz. feta cheese 4 oz. cream cheese room temp 1 tsp. red pepper flakes 2-3 lb. cremini mushrooms about 48, wiped with damp cloth Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper Parchment paper Preheat oven to 375. Cook bacon, drain and crumble. Discard all but 1/4 cup plus 2 teaspoons of bacon fat (add extra virgin olive oil to get this amount if needed). Heat 2 tsp. fat in skillet; sauté onions until tender. Add spinach and sauté until wilted. Mix onions, bacon, spinach, feta, cream cheese and red pepper; season with salt and pepper. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Toss mushrooms with 1/4 cup bacon fat; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place round side down on baking sheet in single layer. Bake until centers fill with liquid, about 15-20 minutes. Spoon filling into mushrooms and bake 10 minutes or until filling is warm. Note: The filling can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen. Spicy Sausage in Puff Pastry with Dijon 1 lb. sausage, 1/2 inch thick (We like a spicy sausage.) 2 puff pastry sheets 2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard 1 large egg mixed with water for egg wash Sillpat (a silicone baking mat) or parchment paper Note: Bake sausage first if it is uncooked. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Unfold puff pastry on a silpat or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut each piece of puff pastry in half lengthwise and brush the top sides with Dijon mustard. Divide sausage into 4 equal pieces. Starting at the long end of the pastry, place 1 piece of sausage on top of mustard and roll it up tightly, overlapping the end by 1/2 inch. Seal the pastry by brushing the edge with water. Cut off the excess pastry. Roll the other 3 pieces of sausage in puff pastry. Place the 4 rolls, seam side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a Sillpat. Brush with egg wash and score each roll diagonally to make 7 equal pieces. Bake 400 for 20-25 minutes until browned. Serve warm. Makes 28 pieces.
Sesame Eggplant Salsa 2 lbs. eggplants 3/4 cup green onions, minced 2 1/3 Tbsp. fresh ginger, minced 2 Tbsp. fresh garlic, minced 1 serrano or Thai chili, minced 3 Tbsp. light brown sugar 2 Tbsp. lemon juice 1 Tbsp. seasoned rice vinegar 1 Tbsp. soy sauce 1 Tbsp. canola oil 1 1/2 Tbsp. dark sesame oil 3/4 cup chopped, peeled tomatoes 3/4 cup cilantro, minced Pita chips Preheat oven to 425. Cut stems off eggplants
and prick well with knife. Place on foil lined baking sheet and roast 20-40 minutes until tender. Allow to cool slightly, then scrape inside with spoon and place into cutting board and chop or puree. Combine green onions, ginger, garlic and chili into a bowl. Combine brown sugar, lemon juice, vinegar and soy sauce. Place a large sauté pan over medium heat and swirl canola to coat pan. Add green onion mixture and sauté until softened without coloring, about 45 seconds Add sugar mixture and bring to simmer, stirring rapidly. Reduce heat and add eggplant puree.
pelika O Observer
A10 October 10, 2018
Community Calendar: Events around town
Ongoing: • Village Friends/Village Values is a nonprofit organization that supports seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older. For info or to schedule a presentation to your group, call 334-209-4641. For the website, Google “village friends village values.” • The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR chapter is appealing for sweaters, jackets, trousers, shirts and socks, women’s clothing, soft soap in individual containers, shaving supplies, disposable razors, denture cleanser, toothpaste and toothbrushes, DVDs, games, books and magazines to take to veterans at the CAVHCS in Tuskegee. The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter regularly visits veterans living in assisted living, the homeless domiciliary and psych (trauma) ward in Tuskegee. Donations are tax deductible and will be much appreciated. Pick up is provided. Please call Linda Shabo at 887-6659 or at 256307-1449. Mondays: • “Gimme A Break” Support Group for parents whose children have autism will be held from 9-11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika. This is a monthly event on the first Monday of each month for parents to connect with each other. • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika. • The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School
Fuller,
from A4 one holds. Sometimes I press them in books or hang them upside down to dry. I guarantee that you could pick almost any book off of my bookshelf and
band room. Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike. • Smiths Station Military Chapter of Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) meets weekly at Mike & Ed’s at 5 p.m. For more information, call 297-5581 or visit www.nonukesforiran.org. • The Lee County Voters League meets the first Monday of every month at St. James Missionary Baptist Church, located at 1335 Auburn St. in Opelika. • The Touched by Suicide Support Group meets the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information, contact Deborah Owen, EAMC’s director of Psychiatric Services at 334-528-4197 or deborahowen@eamc.org. • The fourth Monday of each month a Community Grief Support Group meets from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome. For more information call 826-1899 or 502-0216. • T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support group, meets every Monday night from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Ave., Opelika. For more info contact Mary Johnson, 749-1584. • The Lee County Commission meets the second and last Mondays of each month at the courthouse beginning at 5 p.m. • The Commercial Horticulture Extension Team organizes webinars to
provide quick updates for producers on various topics of interest. Whether you are interested in the proper way to plant fruit trees or have questions in turf management, these webinars cover a wide range of subjects. Webinars are streamed live via Panopto on the last Monday of every month starting in January and ending in November. During the presentation, participants can send questions via email. The webinars also are recorded and stored in the archive on the Beginning Farmer website. Webinar topics include: trap cropping for reducing squash insect pests, cowpea curculio updates, nutsedge control, introduction to potting mixes in ornamental container production, dealing with drought in commercial horticulture crops, and many more. To view the full schedule, please visit www. aces.edu/anr/beginningfarms/webinars.php. Please send questions during the presentations to Ann Chambliss, thameae@auburn.edu. For questions regarding the webinar series or for providing suggestions, please email Dr. Ayanava Majumdar at bugdoctor@auburn.edu. Tuesdays: • Ballroom Dance Classes at the Opelika Sportsplex from 7-8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info call Diane at 749-6320. • A monthly educational program on topics for autism parents, caregivers and teachers will be held on the second Tuesday of each month at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Ave., Opelika from 6-7:30 p.m.
Childcare is provided, but reservations need to be made by contacting Maria Gutierrez at mariag@leecountyautism. com to make sure there are enough volunteers. • The East Alabama Old Car Club meets every first Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Monarch Estates Clubhouse, located at 1550 East University Drive, Auburn. A program of interest to the old car enthusiast is presented. Car ownership is not required. • The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. Meetings are preceded by non-voting work sessions that typically begin about 6:30-6:45 p.m. • Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard. The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6–8 p.m. 8685 AL Highway 51. • A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone dealing with the pain of loss and feeling the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved. The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School. For more information contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-518-9122. • The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday evening from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. For more information visit www.auburncap.org or find the organization on Facebook. • East Alabama Gem & Mineral Society meet the 4th Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m. Meetings are held at the Covington Rec. Center located at 213 Carver Ave. in Opelika. Wednesdays: • The second Wednesday of each month a Community Grief Support Group meets from
open it up to reveal a pressed flower, or even a feather. These wildflowers may be the death of me this year but when I look at them I am happy. I am reminded that I live in a world that isn’t always ugly. I live in a world that isn’t always steel and concrete. I live in a
world that isn’t always political. I am reminded that “my” world is colorful. My world is a field of flowers, a pasture of horses, a cold creek running steadily through the quiet woods. My world is watching the deer outside my kitchen window as I am doing dishes in the afternoon
as Abigail takes her nap. While these flowers may be the death of me, they are the life within me, as well. Its almost time for my next dose of Theraflu. I also need another Kleenex. I may go ahead and make myself another cup of whiskey with lemon and honey. Getting used to new
10-11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 826-1899 or 502-0216. • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts Bingo every Wednesday night at 6 p.m. • Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 - 8 p.m. Thursdays: • American Legion Auxiliary Unit 152 meets the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. at Niffer’s Place, 917 S. Railroad Ave. in Opelika. • The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Support Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@yahoo.com or find them on Facebook. • TNT – Teens N Transition is a monthly program for teens and young adults ages 14 and up. The group uses this time to learn social skills as well as connect with others on the autism spectrum. They have enjoyed cooking, bowling, laser tag, movies and game nights. This event is held the third Thursday of each month. Visit leecountyautism.com for more information. • Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/ Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes. The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants. Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 334-737-5215 or cheri. paradice@gmail.com for more information or luncheon location of the month. • The Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group meets at the Health Resource Center at 6 p.m. the first Thursday of each month. • T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends. Call 334528-1076 for more information. • The Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art holds evening and after-school studio art classes yearround. Open to all skill levels, art supplies are included with the cost of registration. Call 334-
480-2008. • Oct. 13 - The second annual “One Step At a Time 5K/Walk” will be held Oct. 13 on the campus of Loachapoka High School, which is located at 685 Lee Road 61. For more information or to register, email organizer Belinda Jackson at Loachapoka5KWalk@ yahoo.com. • Oct 15 The general election is approaching and the Lee County Voter’s League will conduct a special meeting Oct. 15 (at the usual 6 p.m. start time) to determine League endorsements, to send out announcements, press releases, etc. for voters who want to participate on November 6. League meetings are held at Bethesda Baptist Church; 201 South 4th St. in Opelika. • Oct. 16 - The October meeting of NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will take place at 7 PM on Tuesday, October 16, 2018 at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, 714 East Glenn Avenue in Auburn. NAMI supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy. There will be a time for sharing. The public is invited. EAMC events • Oct. 15 - On Oct. 15, Opelika’s East Alabama Medical Center will hold “An Evening of Remembrance” to observe “Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day” in the hospital’s Memory Garden. There will be a candle-lighting ceremony in remembrance of young lives lost and names of the children will be read aloud. The event is open to the public. •Oct. 2-26 - EAMC is coordinating a community-wide hurricane relief drive for people in North and South Carolina affected by Hurricane Florence. Supplies can be dropped off in a pod in the parking lot of the EAMC Education Center, located at 2027 Pepperell Parkway. People preferring to make a monetary donation may make checks available to the Cornerstone Foundation and put “Flood Relief” in the memo line (all donations are tax deductible). Checks can be mailed to EAMC/ Attn: Lisa Ruffin/2000 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801. For more information, contact Chaplain Laura Eason at laura.eason@ eamc.org, Lisa Ruffin at lisa.ruffin@eamc.org.
things can be challenging and sometimes downright painful, but I know that this sinus infection is only temporary. I’ll be fine again in a few days. In the meantime, I’ve got to rest up and get well. I’ve got feathers to find and wildflowers to pick. On second thought, maybe I’ll just
stick with feathers. Lucy Fuller is a lover of nature, animals, gardening, and old houses. She is a full time mother and wife. She currently resides in Opelika with her husband, two daughters, 3 dogs, and cat. She can be reached at fullalove2017@gmail. com
Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.
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Annual ‘Think Pink Walk’ held in downtown Opelika Saturday
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The annual “Think Pink Walk” was held Saturday in downtown Opelika. Hundreds of people participated to honor the memory of those who have or are battling the disease and raise money for research to ultimately find its cure. Bottom right, Ward 1 Councilwoman Patsy Jones addresses the gathered crowd at the conclusion of the walk.
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Parade,
from A1 with large public outcry on social media, the Chamber reversed its decision in June, a story reported first by the Observer. Because of the Chamber’s nonprofit status and small staff, Powers-Smith said the fate of the parade rests squarely upon Opelika citizens this December. “I truly hope that attendance is better than it’s been in years. I think it would be exciting for the parade entrants to have a crowd to wave to as they drove through downtown,” Powers-Smith said. “Many of the people that were upset about the cancellation self-admitted that they had not attended the parade in years, and I think if we can get that crowd back, it will make a world of difference. People underestimate how important it is to simply attend.” The cost of entering a float, motorcycle or vehicle is $25, with application forms available online or at the Chamber office, which is located at 601 Ave. A. Awards will be presented to the three best handcrafted floats present at the parade. For more information, call 334-745-4861, visit their office or website www.opelikachamber. com.
Hagan,
from A1 said in a 2015 interview with the Observer. And he kept his promise. In his inaugural walk across Alabama, national news outlets picked up the story, helping him collect more than 60,000 pairs of shoes to provide for people in Reynosa and beyond. Twenty-five years later, Hagan said his mission is still the same. Following knee replacement surgery last year, he said he feels more inspired than ever for the walk, including an arduous journey through Nevada’s U.S. Highway 50, commonly referred to as “The Loneliest Highway in America.” Beyond helping the poor through these annual walks is Hagans’ desire to spread the gospel to others and be a light to those in spiritual darkness. “When you’re out there, it’s just you, the highway and the stranger. There’s been so many awesome encounters along the way,” Hagans said. Those interested in following Hagans’ journey and receiving updates can follow his Facebook and Instagram pages titled “Pastor Rick Hagans.” He will also post a link to a blog he said he plans to update frequently. For more information or to donate to Hagans’ cause, visit www.harvestevangelism.org.
Second biannual ‘Auburn-Opelika Gun and Hunting Show’ held last weekend
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The second biannual “Auburn-Opelika Gun and Hunting Show” was held last Saturday at the Village Event Center. More than 135 vendors selling hunting gear and accessories filled the 25,000 sq. ft. facility for the event.
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“There’s definitely an excitement in the air, it’s a festival-type atmosphere. You walk up and you see all the games
lined up all the way up and down the length of two soccer fields,” Chesser said. “Then you smell all the different food vendors and the big inflatables and it just generates that excitement. It’s a fun time, everybody’s dressed up and really gets you in the spirit
of Halloween.” For more information about the event, visit www.opelika-al.gov or like and follow the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department Facebook page. The Sportsplex is located at 1001 Andrews Road.
Opelika Schools & Sports Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports
Beauregard v. Greenville (H) Beulah v. St. James (H) Opelika v. Calera (A) Smiths Station v. Auburn (A)
Special to the Opelika Observer The Opelika High School Cross Country team travelled to Douglasville, Georgia last Saturday to compete in the Alexander/Asics Invitational. Breckin Gould (pictured left) came in 7th place
Opelika volleyball claims region title
T
Oct. 12
OHS’s Breckin Gould places seventh at last Saturday’s Alexander/ Asics Invitational
On the Mark By D. Mark Mitchell
he Opelika High School volleyball team (9-5) won the area championship for the first time in more than 20 years. The Lady Bulldogs earned the title with two wins over Russell County and splitting two games against Benjamin Russell, finishing 3-1 in the area. Opelika will host Park Crossing this Thursday at 4:30 p.m. in the Main Street Gym. Opelika ends the regular season with road matches at Smiths Station (10-17) and Auburn (10-18). BULLDOGS DOMINATE WILDCATS 29-3 The Opelika football team (2-4 overall, 2-1 in region play) dominated Benjamin Russell in Alexander City last Friday night 29-3.
Upcoming Football Games
Opelika’s defense dominated the Wildcats, allowing one field goal while recording 10 tackles for negative yards and sacking the quarterback four times. Opelika’s offense kept the scoreboard operator busy in the first half, scoring 29 points and ending any thoughts of a Benjamin Russell win. Brantan Barnett sprinted 39 yards for a touchdown on the first play from scrimmage. An ensuing successful two-point conversion gave Opelika an 8-0 lead early in the game. After holding the Wildcats to a three-and-out, Cade Blackmon threw a 34-yard TD pass to Jaylen Stinson on the Bulldogs’ second possession to extend their lead. See Opelika, page B3
overall in the varsity girls race. Winston Tufts was the top boys team finisher. The cross country team will compete against Auburn in the Tger Classic Oct. 20. The event will be held at Kiesel Park, which is located at 520 Chadwick Lane in Auburn.
Bullock County spoils Beulah’s undefeated season 20-14 By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor
Beulah’s undefeated season came to an end Friday night, dropping a 20-14 road contest to Bullock County. The Bobcats owned a 14-12 lead with fewer than five minutes remaining in the contest, but fumbled a squib kick on their own 16-yard line to set up the go-ahead, game-winning score for the Hornets. Beulah attempted a
late last-second drive for the win, but turned the ball over on downs at midfield. Star linebacker and running back Caden Dowdell missed his third-straight game, but the offense still managed to generate 259 rushing yards on 36 attempts. Quarterback Lonzie Portis put on a show, rushing 14 times for 181 yards and two touchdowns. Starting running back Chris Person was a workhorse, carrying the ball
14 times for 83 yards. The Bobcats relied little on the pass, as Portis completed only 5-of-11 passes for 24 yards. Quay Johnson finished with two catches for 12 yards to lead all Beulah receivers. Beulah’s defense turned in a strong showing, limiting the Hornets to 219 yards of total offense. Safety Dylan Coleman dominated in the defensive See Bobcats, page B3
Smiths Station slips by Jefferson Davis 23-17 By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Another heart-pumping finish and defensive red-zone stop propelled Smiths Station to a 23-17 victory over Jefferson Davis last Friday night at Panther Stadium, improving to 5-2 overall and 2-1 region play. Tied 17-17 late in the fourth quarter, the Panthers pulled ahead on a powerful 23-yard touchdown run from
D.J. Moffett. Jefferson Davis quarterback Curtis Wilson connected with Reginald Summage twice on the game’s final drive to keep the Volunteers’ hopes of winning alive. Positioned inside of the Panther’s red zone, four-straight incompletions doomed their hopes of a comeback, ending with a severely overthrown Wilson pass to Tavares Womack.
“I can’t tell you how proud I am of these kids, and I tell you what, I had to go the doctor last week and I may have to go again this week because they are about kill me,” joked Smiths Station Coach Mike Glisson after the victory. Both schools posted back-to-back threeand-outs to start the game. On their second drive, sophomore Smiths Station quarterback Corey Minton
piloted the Panthers to the Volunteer 3-yard line, but was stuffed on a keeper on fourth down to end what once had been a promising drive. More missed opportunities from both teams prevailed until early in the second quarter, following several big gashes of the Volunteer defense by Panther running back L.C. Harris. JefSee Panthers, page B3
Photo courtesy of the Smiths Station Athletics Facebook page
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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.
Defensive tackle Eric “EJ” Thomas was named the Opelika Player of the Week. He finished with three tackles for a loss and sack in the Bulldogs’ 29-3 win over Benjamin Russell last Friday night.
IT’S THE OPELIKA WAY.
GO DAWGS! #myOpelika • #beOpelika www.opelika-al.gov 2018 observer
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Senior linebacker and running back Kyran Hall was named the Smiths Station Player of the Week. He was a key contributor in the Panther’s 23-17 win against Jefferson Davis last Friday night at Panther Stadium.
Beulah Player of the Week Senior quarterback Lonzie Portis was named the Beulah Player of the Week. In the Bobcats' 20-14 loss to Bullock County Friday night, he rushed 14 times for 181 yards and two touchdowns and completed 5-of-11 passes for 24 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions.
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Neither team was able to score points in the second half. Opelika worked the clock and played close to the vest to hold its 26-point lead. The Wildcats struggled to get first downs against the overpowering Bulldogs. Opelika’s win combined with Stanhope Elmore beating Wetumpka shakes up the region standings. Stanhope Elmore leads at 3-0, Wetumpka and Opelika are 2-1, Calera and Benjamin Russell is
1-3. OPELIKA at CALERA The Bulldogs travel to Calera for the firstever meeting between the two schools. Calera (1-5 overall, 1-3 in region play) defeated Selma 23-6 last Friday for their first win of the season. Calera is coached by former Alabama quarterback Andrew Zow, who is 14-13 in his third season. Look for the Bulldogs to dominate the Eagles for their second win in a row. If things go according to plan, many players will see playing time Friday night. Calera has been
outscored 181-118 through six games. Pelham, Pell City, Stanhope Elmore, Wetumpka and Bibb County have defeated the Eagles. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Cairns Memorial Stadium in Calera. Fans can listen to the game on WKKR 97.7 Kicker FM or online at www.kickerfm. com. D. Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys State Director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council. See B2 for game photos taken by Observer photojournalist Robert Noles.
B3 October 10, 2018
Bobcats,
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backfield, finishing with seven total tackles. Middle linebacker Justin Hancock and defensive tackles Grant Webb and Benjamin Gardener finished with six, five and four tackles each, respectively.
Panthers,
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ferson Davis bowed its neck defensively in its own red zone to force a 32-yard field goal attempt by Taylor Walker which split the uprights. Late in the second quarter, the Volunteers mustered a scoring drive of their own, relying on consistent throws from Wilson to Womack to advance into scoring position. With 32.3 seconds left in the half, Wilson plunged into the endzone from a yard out to give his team its first lead of the game. Following a fiery halftime speech from Glisson, the Panthers opened the second half with a sense of urgency, scoring on
On special teams, Isaiah Glidewell maintained a 39 yards-per-punt average and Austin Billingsley connected on both of his extra-point attempts. With the loss, the Bobcats fall to 5-1 overall, 3-1 in region play. They return to Bobcat Stadium this Friday to host Montgomery’s St. James High School, who also sports a 5-1 record. Both schools only share
common opponent, Bullock County, whom the Trojans defeated 41-19 in week three. This matchup will go a long way in determining final region standings and playoff seedings come November. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Bobcat Stadium is located directly behind the school, which is located at 4848 Lee Road 270 in Valley.
their first drive with a beautifully woven 16yard TD run by Kyran Hall to extend their lead to 10-7. Another botched offensive series by the Volunteers and short punt gave the Panthers momentum and great field position, relying on a well-balanced dose of runs from Harris and Moffett to move the ball. Moffett capped off the drive with a head-first TD drive from two yards out. The next score came early in the fourth quarter, as Jefferson Davis kicker Juan Cardenas booted a 30yard field goal to cut the Smiths Station lead to seven. Fewer than four minutes later, the Volunteers were able to capitalize and score again following a Panther fumble. Wilson
scored his second TD of the night from three yards out to tie the game 17-17. “That’s a good football team over there. I know their record (1-5 overall) isn’t great, but they’ve dealt with injuries (the whole season),” Glisson said. “There ain’t no easy wins in our region, and it’s a fight every Friday night. We’re going to enjoy this win tonight then come back in here early Monday morning to get ready for Auburn.” The Panthers will travel to Duck Samford Stadium for a pivotal 7 p.m. regional tilt v. the Tigers. Auburn sports a 6-0 record, dominating opponents all season and winning by an average of 26 points-per-game. Duck Samford Stadium is located at 1600 E. University Drive.
Photos courtesy of the Smiths Station Athletics Facebook page
JOIN US FOR THE
Signature Chefs Auction East Alabama WHEN Thursday, November 8, 2018 6:00 pm WHERE Auburn University Hotel & Dixon Conference Center 241 South College Street Auburn, Alabama 36830 FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL, 334.513.7381 SIGNATURECHEFS.ORG/EASTALABAMA
pelika O Observer IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR LEE COUNTY ALABAMA[Domestic Relations Division] IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF JESSICA PIERCE RHINEHART, Plaintiff/Wife v. PHILLIP EVERETT RHINEHART, Defendent/Husband CASE NO. 43-DR-2018900260.00 NOTICE OF DIVORCE ACTION PHILLIP EVERETT RHINEHART, Defendent, whose whereabouts are unknown must answer JESSICA PIERCE RHINEHART, Plaintiff’s Compalint for Divorce and other relief by the 26th day of November 2018, or, thereafter, a judgment by default may be rendered against him in the above-captioned case number 43-DR-2018-900260.00, now pending in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama. DONE this 13th day of September, 2018. MARY B. ROBERSON CIRCUIT COURT LEE COUNTY ALABAMA Legal Run 9/19, 9/26, 10/3, 10/10/18
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RICHARD ALLEN WALKER, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 19th day of September, 2018, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. JOHN G. WALKER Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 9/26, 10/3, & 10/10/18
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of Charles Norman Witte Deceased NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION TO BE PUBLISHED Letters of Administration on said deceased having been granted to HON. SUSAN HUFFSTUTLER, Administrator on this the 17th day of September, 2018, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. BY: James E. Hall, Attorney for Administrator. Legal Run 9/26, 10/3 & 10/10/18
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: BETTY A. JACKSON, Deceased Case No. 2018-B-163 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION WITH THE WILL ANNEXED of said deceased having been granted to Benjamin Parr on the 19th day of September, 2019 by
the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. /s/Benjamin Parr Legal Run -9/26/18, 10/03 & 10/10/18
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Henry Julius Mount, deceased Probate Court, Lee County Case No: 2018-B-168 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of Henry Julius Mount deceased having been granted to Rhonda Kay Mount Thorne and Ricky Darrell Mount on the 21st day of September 2018, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Rhonda Kay Mount Thorne Ricky Darrell Mount Legal Run 9/26, 10/3, & 10/10
In the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama; Hardwood, LLC v. Spriggs, et al.; Case No.: CV-2018-900551.00 NOTICE OF ACTION To: All Defendants herein, whose whereabouts are unknown and which cannot be ascertained after the exercise of reasonable diligence. You are hereby notified that on the 20th day of September, 2018, a complaint to quiet title was filed in the Circuit Court of Lee County, Alabama, and the following are the names of all parties to the action: Hardwood, LLC as Plaintiff; Sara Spriggs and Midland Funding, LLC, as Defendants, whose heirs, executors and/ or administrators, registered agents, successors, and assigns are unknown and cannot be ascertained after the exercise of due diligence, and which are believed to have claimed some right, title, interest or claim in and to the property described as follows: Lot Number 8, Block “A” containing 1.129 acres, in Crescent Subdivision, located in Section 17, Township 18N, Range 27E, Lee County, Alabama. As shown on plat of survey prepared February 4, 1970, by Philip L. Fretwell, Land Surveyor, Ala. Reg. No. 8113, which said plat is recorded in the office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, in the Plat Book 7, at Pages 204 and 205 thereof. All persons having an interest in said lands or any portion thereof, claiming any title thereto or any encumbrance or lien thereon, are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint on or before the expiration of 30 days after the last publication of this notice, or thereafter suffer judgment by default to be rendered against them, it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint. Legal Run 10/3, 10/10 & 10/17
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE ESTATE OF
LEGALS
EDWARD MCCONNELL, DECEASED CASE NO.: 2018-B-192 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take notice that Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to DONNA MCCONNELL HILL, Personal Representative, on the 27th day of September, 2018, by Honorable Bill English, Judge of Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Donna McConnell Legal Run 10/3, 10/10 & 10/17
NOTICE OF ADOPTION PROBATE OF COURT OF LEE COUNTY CASE NO.: 2018-B-041 TO: Corey Lewis or any other Unknown Fathers Address Unknown Please take notice that a Petition for Adoption was filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama by Daniel Reeder and Michelle Reeder on September 18, 2018, for the Adoption of M.C.W. born August 15, 2018 to Amanda Darlene Winslett. A hearing has been set for the 27th day of December, 2018, at 11 o’clock a.m. central time in the Probate Court of Lee County Courthouse, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama. Should you intend to contest this adoption, you must file a written response within thirty (30) days of the date of the last publication herein, with the Clerk of said Probate Court at 215 S. 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama 36801 or appear on the date of the hearing as set above to contest said Petition. Done this 21st day of September, 2018. BILL ENGLISH, Probate Judge. Legal Run 10/3, 10/10, 10/17 & 10/24/2018
IN THE MATTER OF THE CONSERVATORSHIP OF LEWIS WARREN JOHNSON, a non-compos mentis (Jennifer Marie Shumack, Conservator and Legal Guardian) IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Case No.: 2015-A-218 NOTICE OF CONSERVATOR’S SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that Jennifer Marie Shumack, the Conservator of Lewis Warren Johnson, a non compos mentis, has filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, the detailed accounts, vouchers and statements for final settlement of his conservatorship of Lewis Warren Johnson, covering the period from June 30, 2016 through June 30, 2018 and that the 5th day of November, 2018 at 10:00 o'clock a.m. has been appointed as the day for making said partial settlement in this Court and that any person interested therein may appear and contest the same if he sees fit to do so. This the 27th day of September, 2018. BILL ENGLISH JUDGE OF PROBATE Legal Run 10/3, 10/10, & 10/17
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, November 6, 2018,
at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 204 S. 7th Street, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. PURPOSE The purpose of said Public Hearing will be to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend Ordinance Number 124-91 (entitled “Zoning Ordinance of the City of Opelika”) adopted on September 17, 1991. At said Public Hearing all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to the adoption of the following ordinance: ORDINANCE NO. ________ AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. That Ordinance 124-91 entitled “Zoning Ordinance City of Opelika, Alabama”, adopted on September 17, 1991, and the Zoning Map of the City of Opelika provided for and referred to therein, as previously amended and/or modified, be and the same is hereby amended by rezoning or redistricting the parcel of land hereinafter in this section described, so as to change such parcel from one class of district to another class of district as follows, to-wit: From a R-5 District (High Density Residential District) to a C-2, GC-P District (Office/Retail, Gateway Corridor Primary Overlay District), the parcel of land hereinafter described: Beginning at the northwest corner of the southeast quarter of Section 23, Township 19 of Range 26 and run thence north 85 degrees and 30 minutes east 142 feet to the point of beginning of the tract of land to be here described and conveyed and from said last mentioned point of beginning run north 85 degrees and 30 minutes east 490 feet; thence north 19 degrees and 55 minutes west 845 feet; thence north 5 degrees and 30 minutes west 775 ; thence run north 4 degrees and 20 minutes west 1080 feet to the southerly margin of the public highway; thence south 71 degrees and 25 minutes west along said margin of said highway for a distance of 265 feet; thence South 4 degrees and 33 minutes east 2,606 feet to the point of beginning except those areas within the 17.8 acres previously zoned C-2, GC-P. The above-described property contains 17.8 acres, more or less, and is located at 2012 Frederick Road, Opelika, Alabama. Section 2. Any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed. Section 3. This Ordinance shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. WITNESS my hand this the 10 th day of October, 2018. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 10/10/18
NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING CASE NO: 2018-C-001 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition
FRIENDS FAMILY COWORKERS MOTHERS TEACHERS SONS DAUGHTERS NURSES GRANDPARENTS NIECES FATHERS AUNTS UNCLES OPIOID ADDICTION EMPLOYERS COUSINS FAMILY FAMILY DOESN’T CARE NEPHEWS DOCTORS PARENTS FRIENDS WHO IT HURTS. FAMILY COWORKERS MOTHERS
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of Barbara Mae Hand James, Deceased Case No. 2018-B-210 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary having been granted to Fran Cornelia James Murphy, as Executrix of the Estate of Barbara Mae Hand James, deceased, on the 12th day of September, 2018, by the Honorable Bill English. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. FRAN CORNELIA JAMES MURPHY Executrix of the Estate of Barbara Mae Hand James, Deceased Legal 10/10/18, 10/17/18, 10/24/18
NOTICE OF COURT PROCEEDING CASE NO. 2018-C-006 IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA Notice of the filing of Petition for Summary Distribution In the Estate of CLIFFORD EUGENE BAKER, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by Quintina Baker on October 4, 2018, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama, and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 10/10/18
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE: The Estate of Selonzo Centrell Jackson, Deceased Case No. 2018-B-232 TAKE NOTICE that Letters of Administration having been granted to Elisha Moore as Administratrix of the Estate of Selonzo Centrell Jackson, deceased, on the 20th day of September, 2018. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that all persons having claims against the said Estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Elisa Moore, Administratrix of the Estate of Selonzo Centrell Jackson, Deceased Legal Run 10/10/18, 10/17/18 & 10/24/18
CITY OF OPELIKA NOTICE OF PLANNING
COMMISSION MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARINGS TO: RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED CITIZENS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Opelika, Alabama will hold a regular meeting and will be conducting public hearings on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers in the Public Works Administrative Building located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama. The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public comment on the following: A public hearing on a requestby Scott Futch, authorized representative of Auburn Timberlands, Inc., and Hennon King, Jr., property owners, for preliminary and final plat, approval of the Ivy Oaks subdivision consisting of 2 lots accessed at the 6000 block Highway 29 North. A public hearing on a request by James L. McCrory, authorized representative of Jane Sims Coakley & David A. Sims, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the O.C. Sims, First Revision subdivision, consisting of 2 lots at 8830 Highway 29 North. A public hearing on a request by Kathy R. Lynch & James E. Dupree, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Dupree Living Trust Plat No. 1 subdivision, consisting of 2 lots accessed at 6020 Highway169. A public hearing on a request by Ledge Nettles, authorized representative of John M. Coggins & Traci L. Coggins, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Coggins subdivision, consisting of 3 lots accessed at 6032 Lafayette Parkway (U.S. Highway 431 North). A request by Dino McDowell, authorized representative for D.H. McDowell Family LLLP, property owner, for final plat approval of The Reserve at Wyndham Gates, Phase 2 subdivision consisting of 85 lots accessed at Gateway Drive. An agenda item to consider a recommendation to the City Council on the request by Robin Floyd Sanders, property owner, to annex 19.9 acres into the City limits located at the 4100 block Andrews Road. Zoning request, R-1. The following agenda item is included for review as “Other Business” at the October 23rd Planning Commission meeting: A recommendation to City Council to name the new street between Andrews Road and Anderson Road “Sportsplex Parkway.” All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting/ public hearings and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to the Planning Director at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the meeting/public hearings and may be further submitted to the Planning Commission at the meeting/ public hearings. The Planning Commission reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and to make its recommendations accordingly to the City Council. Please contact Lisa McLeod, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-5132 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability. Legal Run 10/10/2018
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for Summary Distribution In the Estate of VICKY LYNN FOSTER, deceased Notice is hereby given that a Petition for Summary Distribution has been filed in the LEE COUNTY Probate Office by DEBRA FOSTER GIELS on October 2, 2018, pursuant to Section 43-2-690, Code of Alabama and that 30 days after the notice of publication hereof and pursuant to law the Court shall be requested to enter an Order directing Summary Distribution of the estate of said decedent. BILL ENGLISH, PROBATE JUDGE Legal Run 10/10/2018
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pelika O Observer
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The University of North Alabama is hosting
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Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Opelika City Council recognize OPR track and field team members
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Investing in our schools
F
By Tom Whatley
riends, You and I know that the future of Alabama is only as strong as our schools are today. Here in Lee, Russell, and Tallapoosa counties, our schools are improving, but we have unique challenges that we must address to provide our future leaders with the best opportunity to succeed. That’s why I keep in constant contact with teachers, parents and administrators to make sure I know what we must do in Montgomery to improve our education system – and when government should just get out of the
way. I’m proud of my work to secure an additional $13 million in education dollars for the nation’s premier Pre-K program here at home. Each year, we have been able to quickly grow this program so that every Alabama family who wants to participate in Pre-K will have the opportunity to do so. This issue will continue to be one of my top priorities. This year, the Alabama Senate approved a $6.6 billion Education Trust Fund for the fiscal year that begins October 1. We also passed and a 2.5 percent pay
raise for teachers and education support personnel. It is the largest education budget since the great recession of 2008. This is a sustainable, fiscally-responsible budget that allows schools to plan for the future. This historic support is needed, as we all know the solution to our educational challenges isn’t simply to throw money at our problems. That’s why I’ve made sure these budgets are targeted and strictly paced to give our teachers and students what they need without wasteSee Whatley, page B11
By Michelle Key Editor Mayor Gary Fuller and the Opelika City Council recognized the Opelika Track and Field team for their fifth consecutive state championship in the Alabama Recreation
and Parks Association State Track and Field Meet held earlier this year. This team of athletes brought home numerous awards, set some new records and had 23 athletes qualify to attend the National State Games in summer 2019.
Also during the meeting, Fuller awarded several employees with service awards. Two employees were awarded for 30 years of service to the city. They are: •Robert Shuman See Council, page B11
Hagan calls for campaign finance reform bill to be first on 2019 agenda Special to the Opelika Observer Mallory Hagan announces her support for reform legislation that will improve transparency and end unlimited secret donations to political campaigns. “Today, I am proud to be one of 107 candidates running for the U.S. House who has committed to returning the power of politics back to the people. This
effort is centered on one simple idea: that government should work for everyday Americans–not special interests.” said Mallory Hagan, candidate for Alabama’s Congressional District 3. “The American people know that Washington is not working for them, and I agree. That’s why I strongly support this reform legislation as the first item of business in the next Congress,
ending Washington’s systemic corruption.” The reform legislation is organized by End Citizens United, a group created after the Citizens United v. FEC Supreme Court decision that allowed for large, secret spending in political elections. The group is focused on reforming political campaigning to ensure transparency and reSee Hagan, page B11
ABOR focuses on voter registration at Alabama’s two, four-year schools, colleges Special to the Opelika Observer The Alabama Board of Registrars’ Offices are required to be available to the people of Alabama who attend Alabama’s numerous two and four-year universities. While many have already completed these trips once this year, at the direction of Secretary Merrill
through his elections director and supervisor of voter registration, registrars have been instructed to return to conduct drives for any students not yet registered to vote or in need of updating their voting information. Registrars have been asked to return to all schools of higher learning (two-year,
four-year, technical schools, trade schools, liberal arts schools, private schools, etc.) in their county no later than Oct. 22. These efforts are a part of Secretary Merrill’s ongoing efforts to ensure each and every eligible U.S. citizen that is a resident of Alabama is a registered voter with a photo ID.
‘Mental Illness Awareness Week’ runs through Saturday Special to the Opelika Observer Local dignitaries gathered earlier this month to proclaim the week of Oct. 7-13, 2018, as "Mental Illness Awareness Week" for Lee County, including the Auburn-Opelika area. Each year since 1983, a growing number of men-
tal health organizations, facilities, and advocates have led the nation in observing a week in October as Mental Illness Awareness Week. Members of coalition organizations ask their local elected officials to co-sponsor Mental Illness Awareness Week resolutions.
Lee County Probate Judge Bill English, Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller, and Auburn Mayor Bill Ham recently signed that proclamation. Pictured are Fuller, Judge English, and East Alabama Mental Health Executive Director Jamie Herren at the official proclamation ceremony.
Photo special to the Opelika Observer
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pelika O Observer Annual health fair at Opelika Sportsplex held last week B10
October 10, 2018
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Hundreds of people attended the annual health fair at the Opelika Sportsplex. Representatives from area health organizations and businesses had tables at the event, which also featured instructional exercise programs for those in attendance.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama announces statewide zero premium Medicare Advantage plan for 2019 Special to the Opelika Observer Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is proud to offer for 2019 a statewide zero premium Medicare Advantage plan, Blue Advantage Complete, which is one of Blue Cross’ Medicare approved PPO Plans. Effective Jan. 1, 2019, Blue Advantage
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The Blue Advantage plans provide access to more than 10,000 doctors, 111 Alabama hospitals, and more than 1400 pharmacies as part of the Blue Advantage network. Members also receive additional valuable health and wellness benefits, including: • Free SilverSneakers® by Tivity Health fitness
membership • AirMed transportation service • 24-Hour Nurse Hotline • Routine eye exams • Routine hearing exams and two hearing aids per year through TruHearing TM • $100 eyewear allowance To be eligible for Blue Advantage, individuals must be an Alabama resident, be entitled to Medicare Part A and enrolled in Medicare Part B. For more information, go to bcbsalmedicare.com. About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has insured Alabamians for 82 years. For more information about Blue Cross, visit AlabamaBlue. com. Connect with them on Facebook, check out their videos on YouTube and follow them on Twitter for more up-to-date information. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
pelika O Observer
City Clerk • Anita Burton - Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library. Capt. Bobby Kilgore was recognized by the Lee County Emergency Managment Agency for his work on the PIO Task Force. In other business, the council: • approved the purchase of nine Recycling Cardboard Trailers for Opelika Environmental Services (OES) in the amount of $21,703.68 • approved expense reports from various departments. • approved to designate city personal property purplus and authorize disposal • approved the purchase of an animal transport van conversion from Mavron, Inc. in the amount not to
Hagan,
from B7 duce the influence of big money in politics. “My campaign has received over 90% of our contributions from individuals, and we do not accept any corporate PAC money. Congressman Rogers’ campaign receives over 60% of his funds from secretly funded corporate PAC contributions. The difference is stark and clearly explains who each candidate will work for in the next Congress. While Rogers has focused on fighting for big businesses for the past 16 years, our communities have suffered with closing small businesses, closing hospitals, stagnant wages, and underfunded schools. It’s no wonder that public trust in government is at an all time low.” said Mallory Hagan. Congressman Rogers gets 62% of his contributions from large PAC contributions while Mallory Hagan’s campaign receives 92% from individual contributions according to open secrets June 30th update. “I am committed to limiting the undue influence of big donors on campaigns, reducing the unchecked power special interest groups have in our government, and creating accountability for our elected officials. If we are going to make government work for the people then we must change the way Washington works for good.” Read the reform letter here: https://reformfirst.org/the-letter/ . The effort is using the hashtag #ReformFirst. Food, Games, Performances, Music, Art, Crafts! Wednesday, Oct. 3 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Thursday, Oct. 4 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Friday, Oct. 5 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Saturday, Oct .6 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Children $10 Seniors $10 Adults $12 Group Rates Available Call (205) 371-2234 or visit moundville.ua.edu for more information.
terbilt 520 RH for OES from Ingram Equipment Co., LLC in the amount of $265,964.33 • approved the refund of $600 opening and closing fees associated with a grave • approved several weed abatement assessments • approved the resolution to Fix Assessment for Demolition for 207 Raintree Street in the amount of $6,386.10 • approved the resolution to Fix Assessment for Demolition for 1106 Magnolia Street in the amount of $6,535.10 • approved a request from Sprint for a Special Use Permit for 3460 US Highway 280 • approved the annual contract with Lee Co. Rabies Officer in the annual amount of $6,000 • approved the annual appropriation contract with Humane Society in the annual amount of $153,911
Whatley,
from B7
fully spending our hard-earned tax dollars. When our students and schools succeed, our communities are more attractive to new industries, better jobs and higher wages. Taking the time to boost our education system lifts us all. With education being the economic engine of this district -- with Auburn University, Troy, Phenix City, Southern Union, Chatta-
• approved the annual appropriation contract with Opelika Industrial Development Authority (OIDA) in the annual amount of $125,000 • approved a special appropriation for the East Alabama Community Ballet in the amount of $1,000 • approved a special appropriation for Lee Co. Young Leaders in the amount of $2,500 • approved a special appropriation for 20Under-40 Program in the amount of $2,500 • approved an Alabama Recycling Fund Grant Agreement with ADEM in the amount of $167,950 • approved an annual appropriation contract with Envsion Opelika Foundation. • approved an ordinance to Amend Zoning Ord & Map, 1500 Block West Point Parkway, R-3 to PUD • approved an ordinance to Amend City Code, Chapter 16, Add
hoochee Valley Community College, Central Alabama Community College, and Seven K-12 schools districts -- making sure it is at the forefront of our fiscal and policy decisions will be my top priority. As always, it’s a pleasure to serve you in the Alabama Senate and I look forward to your vote and support in November. Please call me with any concerns that you have. Thank you! - Tom www.tomwhatleyforsenate.com
Photos special to the Opelika Oberver
October 10, 2018
Photos special to the Opelika Observer Article XVI, Truck Routes • approved an ordinance to Amend City Code, Section 19-1, Offenses Under State Law; Penalties • approved the nomi-
nation of the Honorable John Wesley McCollum, Jr. as a part-time municipal judge. • appointed the Honorable John Wesley McCollum, Jr. as a parttime municipal judge.
Governor Ivey announces new statewide care-management program Special to the Opelika Observer Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey announced on Monday that the federal government has approved a new statewide care-management program to complement and enhance the state’s current system of long-term care services provided to approximately 23,000 Alabama Medicaid recipients. The Integrated Care Network (ICN) program was approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on Sept. 12 to offer more community options for Medicaid long-term care recipients. The ICN program is for Medicaid recipients who live in a nursing facility, or receive services in their homes through Medicaid’s Elderly and Disabled (E&D) waiver or the Alabama Community Transition (ACT) waiver. “This is a significant step in our efforts to transform the delivery of services to Medicaid recipients. My goal remains to ensure that all Alabamians receive high-quality health care, no matter their economic status,” Governor Ivey said. “We will continue to work with CMS to improve our Medicaid system and look for new, innovative ways to bring quality health care to our citizens, especially those in rural Alabama.” Alabama Medicaid Commissioner Stephanie Azar said, “Over the last few years, Medicaid has been working with
FRIENDS FAMILY COWORKERS MOTHERS TEACHERS SONS DAUGHTERS NURSES GRANDPARENTS NIECES FATHERS AUNTS UNCLES OPIOID ADDICTION EMPLOYERS COUSINS FAMILY FAMILY DOESN’T CARE NEPHEWS DOCTORS PARENTS FRIENDS WHO IT HURTS. FAMILY COWORKERS MOTHERS PARENTAL DRUG ABUSE ADDS CHILDREN TO ALABAMA’S FOSTER CARE SYSTEM.
GRANDPARENTS NIECES FATHERS AUNTS UNCLES EMPLOYERS NEIGHBORS COUSINS NEPHEWS FIRST RESPONDERS DOCTORS PARENTS FRIENDS FAMILY COWORKERS MOTHERS TEACHERS SONS DAUGHTERS NURSES GRANDPARENTS NIECES FATHER
24/7 Helpline 844-307-1760 COURAGEFORALL.COM a message of the Alabama Department of Mental Health
the Legislature, CMS and many stakeholders to develop a longterm care program that responds to the needs of these recipients while being sustainable under the state budget. I appreciate the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for approving Alabama’s plan.” Commissioner Azar also praised the efforts of state Senator Greg Reed (R-Jasper), who in 2015 introduced legislation to create the ICN. “Senator Reed has championed the development of this initiative that will not only help Medicaid recipients now but will lay the foundation to meet future needs in the state,” she said. With the ICN program, the state will implement a system of case management, outreach and education, with the long-term goal of increasing the percentage of Medicaid recipients receiving in-home care. Alabama Select Network will administer the program under contract with the agency. The program does not change any Medicaid benefits, but will help recipients learn about and apply for services available to them, such as medication management, support for independent living, or help to manage or prevent illness or accidents. Medicaid recipients and potential recipients can learn more about long-term care services available to them by calling 1-800-243-5463.
BIRMINGHAM, AL
Council, from B7
exceed $25,436 • approved the purchase of one 2019 Chevrolet Express Cargo Van from Donohoo Chevrolet for OES in the amount of $25,686.50 • approved the purchase of 624 Toter 96 Gal Carts form Wastequip for OES in the amount of $33,641.89 • approved the purchase of three Nissan Frontier King Cabs for the Inspection Dept, Revenue Dept. and Public Works from National Auto Fleet Group in the amount of $69,577.59 • approved the purchase of one 2020 Peterbilt 348 for OES from Fitzgerald Peterbilt of Montgomery in the amount of $144,796.28 • approved the Purchase-One 2019 Peterbilt 220 33K for OES from ngram Equipment Co., LLC $163,757.23. • approved the purchase of one 2019 Pe-
B11
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B12 October 10, 2018
OBITUARIES Velma Bryant Mrs. Velma Bryant passed away on Thursday, October 4, 2018 in Valley, AL. A graveside service was held at Garden Hills Cemetery on Wednesday, October 10, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. Reverend Joe Richardson will be officiating. Mrs. Bryant is preceded in death by her parents: Luther and Leona Humphries; husband, Roy Eugene Bryant, Sr., and
Maheswary Nadarajah Mrs. Maheswary Nadarajah passed away peacefully at The Bethany Hospice House in Auburn, Alabama on Saturday September 29th, 2018. Mrs. Maheswary Nadarajah is the beloved wife of Dr. K. Nadarajah (Nada), the beloved mother/mother in law of Shankar and Luisa, beloved mother of Shivani, beloved grandmother of Kris, daughter of late Sivaguru Kanagaratnam and Kamalam, sister of late Sivasundaram and Ganeshalingam, and beloved sister of Dr. Sivalingam, Sivapalan, Sivarajah, Sivanathan,
her son, Roy Eugene Bryant, Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Denise Dunaway (Pete); grandchildren, David, Matthew, and Hunter; daughter-in-law, Maryanne Bryant; grandchildren: Jeff Bryant (Steffani) and Mandy Demick (Scott); great-grandchildren: Elaina, Emily Ann, Brenden, Kaden, and Logan. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directing.
Sivagnanam, Sivakumar, Sivananthan, Sivakanthan, Sivarangan, Sivakaran, Rajeswary, Yogeswary, Lingeswary and Jegatheeswary. May her soul rest in peace. Viewing times were: Date: Saturday October 6th, 2018 Time: 10:00 – 10:30 am CST Prayers, Readings and Eulogy: Date: Saturday October 6th, 2018 Time: 10:30 -11:00 am CST Hindu Religious Rites/ Cremation Ceremony: Date: Saturday October 6th, 2018 Time: 11:00-12:00 pm CST
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Travis Rutherford Potts, Jr Travis Rutherford Potts, Jr, age 47, of Opelika, Alabama, passed away Wednesday, October 3, 2018. Travis was born on March 16, 1971, in Valley, Alabama, to Eddie L. “Bonnie” Patterson and Travis Potts, Sr. Travis was a
William Clint Bruner Funeral services for Mr. Bruner were held at 2:00 p.m., on Sunday, October 7, 2018 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation was held on Saturday October 6, 2018 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Interment followed the funeral service at Garden Hills Cemetery. Reverend Perry Neal officiated. Clint was one of the kindest Alice Saylor Thompson Mrs. Alice Saylor Thompson, age 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at 11:50 a.m. in Opelika at East Alabama Medical Center. Funeral services were held on Friday, October 5, 2018 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation was Thursday, October 4, 2018 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home. Interment followed at
wonderful father, grandfather, son, brother and friend. He is survived by his parents, Travis Potts, Sr., Eddie L. “Bonnie” Patterson, and Ronald and Linda Dewberry; brother, Kris Dewberry; "sis", Lavonia Adams; son, Randy Bullard and his wife and daughter, Christan Bullard and Lilly;
daughter, Kenzie Hull; and her two children: Eva and Matthew; and many beloved nieces, nephews, friends and other family. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home in Opelika, Alabama. Visitation was held Friday, October 5, 2018 from
men I've ever known. I never heard him say an unkind word about anyone. He never forgot a birthday or special occasion and went all out to make it memorable. He loved having friends and family over to enjoy his delicious BBQ. There were so many things he enjoyed such as hunting, fishing, football..especially Auburn football of course. He was known to pull for LSU because his grandfather went there, and he wanted to honor him in some
Hephzibah Cemetery in Opelika. Reverend Phillip Saylor officiated. She was born on The Red Land Farm near Woodland, Georgia on August 6, 1932 to Tressie Ann Waters Saylor and Earnest Franklin Saylor. She was also preceded in death by her sisters: Clara Lou Taylor, Mary Lee Pike, and her brother, Larry Jefferson Saylor. She left this world to find the love of her life, Floyd Jackson (Jack) Thompson to whom
5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m., (central time). Memorial services were held Saturday, October 6, 2018 at 3:00 pm (central time) at Jeffcoat Trant Funeral Home with graveside services following at Garden Hills Cemetery. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.
way. He loved the Marine Corps and joined the reserve unit base in Montgomery when he was 17. Clint's greatest pride and joy was his son, Joe. He would always say, look at my handsome son...I think he's perfect! He is preceded in death by his father, William Preston Bruner. Mr. Bruner is survived by his mother, Marilyn Bruner; son, Joe Bruner; sister and her family, Courtney and Tim Garofalo.
she was married 46 years. “IB”, as her family called her, led a full and happy life. As a child, she would be lowered into wells to clean them out. When she was an adult, she burned the barn down. She had dinner with the cast of “Norma Rae”, and she fought off the man who kicked in her door to rob her, with nothing more than her cane at the age of 86. However, her pride and joy was driving her school bus, retiring at the age of 70. Almost everyone in the Beulah community knew her. Mama left behind a family who loved her with all of their heart. She is survived by her two daughters: Wanda Thompson McCary (Richard) and Shirley Thomp-
son Kelley (Lee Roy); one son, Floyd Jackson (Jackie) Thompson (Wanda); She loved six grandchildren: Gerald Kelley (Charlotte), Karen Kelley Ingram (Billy), Twyla Thompson, Shane Thompson (Beverly), Joshua McCary (Edith), J.P. McCary, and Ricky Pouncey; eight greatgrandchildren: Jessica Core, Piper Ingram, Parker Ingram, Pryce Ingram, Owen Kelley, Jebediah Kelley, Christian McCary, and Gabriel McCary; her sister, Jewel Saylor; brother, Lester Saylor. Also many many nieces and nephews; and two very special friends who were like children to her, Sandra and Randall Willis. Jefcoat-Trant Funeral Home & Crematory directed.
Opelika
Family & R
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eligion
How could we not be?
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rior to the beginning of His ministry, Matthew shares with us two things that happened to Jesus—His baptism and His temptation in the wilderness. These are to be taken together as inaugural and initiatory to His mission. Jesus’ baptism was (among other things), His public manifestation to Israel. John develops this aspect as he tells of the Baptist’s words that “I myself did not know Him, but the reason I came baptizing in water was that He might be revealed to Israel (1:31). And it’s worth noting that Christ didn’t show up at the Jordan in a chauffeured limousine— He traveled (almost certainly on foot) over fifty miles and stood in line with sinners! And what He did at the beginning of His ministry, He did at the end as He
was crucified not before a camera crew, but between two criminals (insurrectionists). In all of this, He was acting as Israel’s savior by identifying with sinners. This was in direct opposition to the behavior of the Jewish leaders who did everything they could to isolate themselves from sinners. When Jesus was baptized the Spirit came upon Him in the form of a dove and God announced from heaven, “This is My Son, Whom I love; with Him I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Jesus is singled out by the Spirit and the Father. If you were there on the banks of the Jordan that day, you knew that beyond the significance of your own response and that of others, was the marking out of this Man in these ways. The same word of mouth that had drawn people
By Bruce Green Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika
out to hear John would resonate again concerning the introduction of Jesus to the nation. From there the He “was led by the Spirit into the wilderness” (4:1). Wilderness or desert in Scripture refers to a place that is uninhabited due to its climate, terrain or animal life (Mark 1:13). It is hostile to life. In such a place He remained without food for forty days. Satan showed up and did his best to get between Jesus and God but unlike his ancestors who expressed their dis-
Church calendar
• Pepperell Baptist Church will hold its 92nd homecoming service Oct. 7. The service will begin at 10:30 a.m. with a message from Rev. Mike Newman. A covereddish meal will follow the service. The church is located at 2702 Second Ave. • Pepperell Baptist is offering a Wednesday evening ministry program from 5:45 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for preschool and elementary Children called “WowWorship on Wednesday.” The evening program of music, Bible messages for children, crafts, fun activities, and snack begins on Sept. 5. Registration forms are filled out on the first evening. Contact Ryno Jones Childrens, Youth Minister, or Beth Pinyerd at
Catch ‘On the Mark’ with D. Mark Mitchell and Jeff Sasser weekday mornings from 7-9 a.m.
ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 1311 Second Ave. #758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta #742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy #749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. #749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. #745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy #749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B #7064421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. #745-6670 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave #742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. #745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd #745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. #745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. #745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. #742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr #749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. #887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika
334-745-3108. • Christian comedian Tim Hawkins will perform at First Baptist Church of Opelika Feb. 7. Besides comedy, Hawkins is known for his songwriting and singing abilities. For more information or ticketing options, visit www.timhawkins.brushfire.com. • Oct. 14 - Sunday Fun Day at Restoration Church. Bring your bikes and ride in with the CMA from Hardee’s on Pepperell Parkway in Opelika at 9:30 a.m. to the church. Invite your friends family. It will be a grand day. Restoration Church is located at 950 Shelton Mill Road in Auburn. Events can be emailed to the Observer at editor@opelikaobserver.com.
314 S. 9th St. #745-6143 First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. #745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact 709 Avenue E #741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. #703-3333 Friendship Missionary Baptist 432 Maple Avenue #742-0105 Greater Peace Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave. #749-9487 Heritage Baptist Church 1103 Glenn St. #363-8943 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 Liberty Baptist Church 2701 West Point Pkwy #749-9632 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. #745-2905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 #334-745-3600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy #745-5340 Pepperell Baptist Church 2702 2nd Ave. #745-3108 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd #749-2773 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Rd 166 #745-0807 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. #745-3224 Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd #741-7770 BUDDHIST Buddha Heart Village 3170 Sandhill Rd. #821-7238
CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. #749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy #742-9721 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St. #745-5181 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. #745-6015 Church of Christ 2660 Cunningham Drive #745-6377 CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd #749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place #7496432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court #745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. #749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. #745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 Opelika, Ala. 36804 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. #826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. #742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A #745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 #745-0460
trust through grumbling, ingratitude and rebellion, Christ places Himself under God’s word, His worship and refused to act presumptuously. As a mature man of thirty He is fully tempted but completely confident in His Father. The wilderness which has worn down a nation, toppled its leader and proven inhospitable to life is unable to bring Him down. Israel has a new king. It is not Herod the Great; it is Jesus the Christ. The nation has a new arc to their history because for One has come out of the wilderness to save them (1:21). It’s tempting to view Matthew 4:12-17 as merely a transitional section and that is certainly one of the functions it serves, but it is so much more than that. While it introduces us to Jesus’ ministry, it also acts as a conclusion to
His initial presentation to Israel through His baptism and temptation. It tells us that out of the wilderness came One who brought light to those “living in the land of the shadow of death” (v. 16). It’s part of a quote from Isaiah 9:1-2. The land humbled by the Assyrians (2 Kings 15:29) would be honored by the Savior who walks out of the wilderness with the life of righteousness dripping off Him. Doesn’t it all make you want to puff out your chest a bit to know Someone like that? Doesn't it fill your heart with a godly pride and make you want to say, “This is our Savior; Whom we love. In Him we are well pleased!” Really, how could we not be? You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: atasteofgracewithbrucegreen.com.
Verse of the Week “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you,”
Isaiah 54:10 Pierce Chapel United Methodist 8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922
Family Life Christian Center 601 S. 7th St. #741-7013 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris Ave. #749-1070 Fellowship Bible Church 2202 Hamilton Rd #749-1445 Ferguson Chapel Church 310 S. 4th St. #745-2913 First Assembly of God Church 510 Simmons St. #749-3722 Garden of Gethsemane Fellowship 915 Old Columbus Rd #745-2686 Grace Heritage Church Opelika #559-0846 Holy Deliverance Church 831 S. Railroad #749-5682 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Living Way Ministries 1100 Old Columbus Rd #749-6241 Move of God Fellowship Church 1119 Old Columbus Rd #741-1006 Connect Church 2900 Waverly Pkwy #749-3916 New Life Christian Center 2051 West Point Pkwy #741-7373 New Life Independent Church 10 Meadowview Estates Trailer 741-9001 Opelika’s First Seventh Day 2011 Columbus Pkwy #737-3222 Power of Praise, Inc. Church 3811 Marvyn Pkwy #745-6136 Shady Grove Christian Church West Point Hwy #745-7770
Fresh Foods...And A Whole Lot More!
603 Pleasant Pleasant Drive 603 Drive Opelika, Opelika, ALAL 36801 749-1333 Mon- Sat7am 7am-8pm Mon-Sat - 8pm Sun12pm 12pm-6pm Sun - 6pm
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B14 October 10, 2018
pelika O Observer
Last week’s answers:
10-3 SCRAMBLER ANSWERS: 1), Secret 2) Feral 3), Tirade 4), Source Solution: Cold Feet
pelika O Observer
B15 October 10, 2018
COMICS
“Sometimes crying or laughing are the only options left, and laughing feels better right now.” ― Veronica Roth, Divergent
pelika O Observer
B16 October 10, 2018
Lee County teens turn in strong showings at 2018 Youth Beef Cattle Show Special to the Opelika Observer
Three Lee County youth turned in strong showings at the 2018 Youth Beef Cattle Show in Montgomery Sept. 30, which was judged by Nebraska resident Barb Ohlrichs. The winners were: Mary Hannah Jewel Thompson - Performance Documented Gullatt, Jewel Thomp- Division Grand Champion Heifer Award son and Victoria Thompson. Following is a list of results from the show: Gullatt - won the Hereford Division Reserve Grand Champion Heifer Award. She is pictured with Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy Parnell. Jewel - won the PerMary Hannah Gullatte - Hereford Division formance Documented Reserve Grand Champion Heifer Award Division Grand Champion Heifer Award. She is pictured with the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Carla Hornady. Victoria - won the Performance Documented Division Reserve Grand Champion Heifer Award. She is pictured with Alabama Farmers Federation President Jimmy ParVictoria Thomspon - Performance Docunell. mented Division Grand Champion Heifer Award
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Encore Rehabilitation-Opelika is proud to introduce you to Regional Director Trip Garner, PT, ATC
PHYSICAL THERAPY & SPORTS MEDICINE Encore Rehabilitation, Inc. is proud to welcome Trip Garner, PT, ATC, as our new Regional Director in the Opelika/Eufaula areas! Trip has been a practicing Clinician for 27 years. He received his Physical Therapy degree from Georgia State University and his Master of Business Administration from Auburn University-Montgomery. In addition to being a licensed Physical Therapist, Trip is also a Certified Athletic Trainer with 19 years of experience. Trip and his wife, Tamera, are the parents of three children and reside in Opelika, Alabama. We are excited to have Trip join our Encore Rehabilitation Team! Encore Rehabilitation-Opelika 3501 Frederick Road, Suite 4 Opelika, Alabama 36801 334-521-6644
Encore Rehabilitation-Eufaula 825 West Washington Street Eufaula, Alabama 36027 334-355-6009
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Tuesday - Saturday 128 Columbus Parkway