Opelika Observer 10-31-2018 E-Edition

pelika O 1 O bserver O A Vol. 11, No. 04

Wednesday, October 31, 2018

Opelika, Alabama

th nniversary

“By local people, for local people.”

Observer celebrates 10 years

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor The Opelika Observer held a party last night

at Collaboration Station to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

Launched Oct. 30, 2008, the newspaper is

still carrying out its mission of providing local news for local people.

Pictured above is the current staff of the Ope-

lika Observer: Front: Michelle Key, Editor/Owner and Morgan Bryce, Associate Editor.

V3 Media Group named ‘Small Chef Bancroft’s ‘Bow & Business of the Quarter’ Arrow’ to open Nov. 5

Photo special to the Opelika Observer

Special to the Opelika Observer The Opelika Chamber is excited to announce that V3 Media Group was selected as

the “Small Business of the Quarter” during the recent Chamber’s Business over Breakfast.

This award is given See Business, page A2

Photo special to the Opelika Observer Special to the its doors Nov 5.

Opelika Observer The new restaurant will be located at “Bow & Arrow”, 1977 E. Samford Ave. David Bancroft’s across the street from Texas-style barbecue Church of the Highrestaurant, will open See Restaurant, page A3

Index

OPINION.....................................A4 COUNTY NEWS............................A5 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 CALENDAR..................................A10

Back (left to right): D. Mark Mitchell, Sports Columnist; Robert Noles, Photojournalist; Rick Lanier, Sports

Writer and Woody Ross and Doug Horn, Marketing.

Photo by Robert Noles.

Opelika ALDI to open in 2019

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

By Michelle Key Editor Shaun O’Keefe, ALDI Jefferson Division Vice President, confirmed to the Observer that a new

LEGALS .....................................A11 POLITICS....................................C1 RELIGION..............................A12 SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY EDITION....D1 SPORTS................................B1 ENTERTAINMENT......................B6

ALDI store will be opening in Opelika in 2019.

“We’re excited to join the community and to be able to bring residents high quality groceries See Aldi’s, page A3

pelika O Observer.com

pelika O Observer

A2 October 31, 2018

2018 Beat Bama Food Drive Message from Mayor Gary Fuller and the Food Bank of East Alabama

By Mayor Gary Fuller Special to the Opelika Observer Each year, as we are well in the throes of football, tailgates and team spirit, there is a group of fine people at Auburn University and the Food Bank of East Alabama working diligently to make sure our neighbors do not go hungry. The Beat Bama Food Drive provides ongoing support to the Food Bank of East Alabama from Oct. 1 through Nov. 15.

Food insecurity does exist in East Alabama, but together we can extend a helping hand and provide comfort to those less fortunate than us. The reality is that 1-in-6 Americans struggle with hunger, and locally, 18 percent of Lee County residents are considered food insecure.

Once again, you can do your part by participating in the Beat Bama Food Drive. No matter which team you pull for

Business, from A1

to a small business quarterly that has gone above and beyond to help their clients, given

in the Iron Bowl, this is a great way for neighbors to help neighbors in a fun, competitive way. There are many methods for which you can donate – from monetary donations to dropping food in barrel locations across town.

You can find more information about helping at www.foodbankofeastalabama. com.

If you drop food into a barrel location, the most needed items are non-perishable foods like canned meats, canned fruits, peanut butter, pasta, etc.

I know that we have folks here in Opelika and Auburn with big hearts. You probably speak with someone who struggles with hunger daily and don’t even know it. It could be a church member, a coworker or even a friend.

Do your part! Come out and show your love for your community.

Join the Beat Bama Food Drive and help tackle hunger. great customer services and shown generosity.

Founded originally as a logistics company in 2004, V3 Media developed freight management software to help automate their own processes.

Special to the Opelika Observer Another food fight is underway as the annual “Beat ‘Bama Food Drive” is underway.

For the last 24 years, Auburn University and the University of Alabama have competed with each other prior to their annual meeting in the Iron Bowl to see who could raise the most food for their local food bank. It began as a relatively smallscale event, but has become one of the largest food drives in the state.

Last year, Alabama took the win with 260,453 pounds of donated foods compared to 232,544 pounds for Auburn.

This year’s competition runs from Oct. 1 - Nov. 16 and promises to be fierce as Auburn looks to claw their way back to victory and After a few years, they sold logistics side of the business, and moved towards web-based software, applications, and development.

Today, they are primarily a digital marketing firm, creat-

but is strongly supported by the local community, with food drives at many local businesses and public schools. A number of local grocery stores help to facilitate community donations by allowing the Food Bank to place barrels in the store lobby during the food drive.

Following is a current list of donation spots in the AuburnOpelika area: · Winn-Dixie on S. College Street in Auburn and Fox Run Parkway in Opelika · Kroger in Au-

Alabama attempts to hold on to last year’s victory. The winner and final results will be announced at the Iron Bowl, which will take place Nov. 24.

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

The competition is primarily a studentorganized activity,

ness offers engaging challenges and opportunities for their team of designers to think through a fully-functional conceptual design that works for mobile devices, desktops, and everything in between.

Their clients range from orthopedic surgeons, nonprofits, and clothing boutiques to large universities, injection molding manufacturers and commercial construction companies.

Each different busi-

ing solutions online and through digital graphics. Typically, they spend the majority of their time in three main areas: website design and development, SEO digital public relations and video production.

burn, Lanett and Opelika · Earth Fare, Auburn · Trust Mark Bank, Auburn · Title Max, Opelika · Food Bank of East Alabama, Auburn · Community Market, Opelika · Multiple locations on Auburn University’s campus For more information about the Food Bank or the Beat ‘Bama Food Drive, visit www.foodbankofeastalabama. com.

WE KNOW HOW TO GET YOU HOME

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pelika Observer

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Phone: 334.749.8003 Fax: 334.749.8009 editor@opelikaobserver.com

Editor: Michelle Key Associate Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Woody Ross, Doug Horn and Emily Key Photographer: Robert Noles

w w w. o p e l i k a o b s e r v e r . c o m 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Marketing mail postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS permit #205 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801

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pelika O Observer

A3 October 31, 2018

Dr. Elliot Knight named as ‘Village Creed News Wire’ ASCA’s executive director will help organizations

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor

Opelika native Dr. Elliot Knight will become the next executive director of the Alabama State Council on the Arts Jan. 1, 2019.

Previously the organization’s deputy director, Knight replaces longtime executive director Albert Head, who is retiring after more than 30 years of serving in that role.

“It’s an honor and privilege to be able to do this. I’ve been fortunate to have a lot of great teachers and mentors, supportive family members and people who realized how invaluable the arts can be and encouraged me down that path,” Knight said.

A 2003 Opelika High School graduate, Knight went on to the University of Alabama, receiving three degrees and a doctorate in interdisciplinary studies.

Before joining ASCA, Knight served as an instructor at his alma mater and helped co-found the “Black Belt 100 Lenses Program” in an effort to teach high school students about photography and the arts.

Part of the orga-

Restaurant, from A1 lands in Auburn.

Bancroft, executive chef and owner of Acre Restaurant, is taking his childhood memories from his Texas upbringing and turning them into flavors with his latest venture. His background, paired with his time on "The Loveliest Village on the Plains led to the name "Bow & Arrow," boasting Texas-style barbecue with a Southern twist.

“I grew up in south Texas, so doing this kind of food isn’t forced for me. This is how I trained myself, this is how I learned to cook,” Bancroft said in an interview with Observer staff in March.

"The number-one thing (on our minds) is the attention to quality and the technique."

Bow & Arrow will look much different than Acre. Guests will walk inside to see homemade tortillas being made and a large fire pit on display, and then will hop in line to be served cafeteriastyle.

Quick and convenient, guests can order meat by the pound with various sides in containers ready to share with friends and family.

A stocked condiment

Knight nization since 2012, Knight is involved in several art-related groups. He is a Blackburn Institute Fellow and a board member on the Montgomery Public Art Commission, Montgomery Art Guild and the University of Alabama Community Affairs Board of Advisors.

As ASCA’s executive director, Knight is charged with carrying out the organization’s legacy of promoting positive art cultures throughout the state, provide grant allocations (with funding provided the Alabama Legislature) to art programs statewide and increase public awareness and appreciation.

Major projects at the beginning of his tenure will include additions and amendments to the

share events, platforms with local media agencies

organization’s five and 10-year plans as well as the planning of programs for Alabama’s upcoming bicentennial celebrations.

Knight said he also credits his rise in rank and overall success to his time spent in the Opelika City Schools system which fostered and instilled in him a desire to pursue his passions.

“Some little bit of encouragement received along the way like I received really can impact someone for the rest of their lives. I hope through our work here at (ASCA), that we can enable artists, teachers and students across the state make those connections, regardless of (career path),” Knight said.

“There is a lot of value to engaging in the arts and we want to continue providing the opportunities for people to do that.”

For more information about ASCA and its list of programs/services offered, visit www. arts.state.al.us.

The organization’s headquarters are located at 3721, 201 Monroe St. in Montgomery.

bar awaits customers at the end of the line featuring Tex-Mex goodies ranging from salsa verde to white sauce. Add a glass of sweet tea or a seasonal margarita, and you’ll be hopping back in line before you know it.

Executive Chef Caleb Fischer has worked with Bancroft at Acre for years and also has deep roots in Texas.

Known for this enchanting cakes and desserts, customers will be in for a treat with Fischer at the helm.

The casual atmosphere of Bow & Arrow will also include a “meat chandelier” over the fire pit, where the butcher will hang sausages and other meats.

Taxidermy is to be expected, as is a local photo wall showcasing individuals and their biggest catches. Ample outdoor seating will be available, making this a great place for groups or teams.

Bancroft and Fischer are known for their victory on the Food Network’s Iron Chef Showdown back in 2017 followed by Fischer’s appearance on the Spring Baking Championship.

For more information about Bow & Arrow, follow them on Facebook or Instagram.

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor This is the third and final installment of a three-part series on how the community can benefit through utilizing the “Village Creed,” an Opelika/Lee County-based public benefit corporation designed to connect individuals and organizations to services, volunteer opportunities and needs present in the Opelika-Auburn area.

Through a new initiative called the “Village Creed News Wire,” organizations utilizing the Village Creed will be able to share their events and postings with local media outlets to reach an even broader audience in their respective communities.

Media organizations like the Opelika Observer are partnering with the platform in this effort, which will provide them with a daily updated feed of newsworthy events and programs in their area that might be of interest to their followers, readers or subscribers.

“This will enable local media organizations to create stories and provide information based upon the good work that’s happening among local organizations.

Those organizations could be churches, nonprofits, (or) schools,” said Village Creed Founder Kermit Farmer.

“Service organizations

ALDI, from A1

at everyday low prices,” O’Keefe said.

ALDI currently operates nearly 1,800 stores in 35 states and according to O’Keefe, there are plans to increase that number to 2,500 by the end of 2022.

Opening 150 new stores in 2017, and an anticipated another 150 by the end of 2018, ALDI is one of the fastest growing retailers in the U.S. “Our sales have doubled in the past five years, and we plan to double them again over the next five years,” O’Keefe added.

ALDI strives to continously improve their stores and will have remodeled nearly 900 stores since 2017 by year’s end.

“We’re investing $1.9

want to be found and they deserve every opportunity for people to connect with them. This will help generate more exposure for their cause and purpose.”

Farmer added that this will benefit local individuals seeking ways to connect and give back to their community.

“Individuals will be able to crack open a newspaper or watch on television and see the opportunities that are out there. We believe stronger connections create stronger communities,” Farmer said. “It helps all involved who want to see community improvements.

We have an amazing community now, and there’s many in this community who are working to improve and strive to make it better.

This gives us one more tool, an aggregate tool, to know who is doing what and to help organizations to be found.”

Perhaps the best feature for individuals utilizing the platform according to Farmer is their ability to search by interest or keyword. When one saves these preferences in their personal profile, this information populates on a pinmap to create a custom user experience. Timely event or story information and links, along with points of contact, will be attached with each posting featured in the Village

billion to remodel and expand more than 1,300 U.S. ALDI stores by the end of 2020,” O’Keefe said. “This is a significant investment in our stores, but it’s really an investment in our shoppers.

We’re evolving to meet their changing tastes and needs, and in return they have made us one of the fastest-growing retailers in the U.S.” The new store is being built on Frederick Road, across from Tiger Town.

Updates on the opening dates will be provided as soon as possible.

According to a press release from the grocery chain last month, ALDI is in the process of implementing online ordering by partnering with InstaCart and has plans for the service to be available for all their current stores nationwide by Thanksgiving.

In other ALDI news,

Creed News Wire. This will enable content producers or reporters to easily reach the correct employee or division within an organization to gather information for news or stories.

“Selecting stories or content to turn into news will be solely up to the media agency. Each news entity will be able to choose the theme or style that’s in keeping with the audience they know and what they think they like to hear about,” Farmer said.

Through a media’s utilization of the news wire, Farmer said that organizations will be able to maintain a stronger presence and voice in their respective communities and that the calendar of events will help individuals to be more aware of needs and services existing in their area.

Farmer and his team are actively implementing this tool in areas affected by Hurricane Michael in portions of Alabama, Florida and Georgia to assist with disaster and recovery relief.

Details are available on the home page of the organization’s website: www. villagecreed.com.

For more information, email kermit@villagecreed. com or visit www.villagecreed.com/about. The agency is based in the Collaboration Station, which is located at 216 S. 8th St. in downtown Opelika.

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

the company was named the 2018 Retailer of the Year by Supermarket News. This award, which ALDI also received in 2015, highlights the grocery retailer’s unwavering commitment to quality, value and setting the standard to exceed shoppers’ expectations.

ALDI History Founded by the Albrecht family, the first ALDI store opened in

1961 in Germany, making ALDI the first discounter in the world. Headquartered in Batavia, Illinois, ALDI now has more than 1,600 stores across 35 states, employs more than 25,000 people and has been steadily growing since opening its first US store in Iowa in 1976. For more information about ALDI, visit their website www.aldi.us.

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pelika O Opinion

A4 October 31, 2018

The Moonshine Triangle worth the risk.

Thus was born and nurtured the underground economy that kept food on many a table up in the moonshine triangle.

The distiller made the hough that could have “shine” and either sold it been written by, and

By Hardy Jackson to local customers (making probably was sung by, himself both the manufacturer folks who lived most anywhere and distributor) or sold it to a in the state. However, it seems to me that middle man, the “bootlegger,” who carried it would have been sung best in the hunk it to the larger urban markets. of Alabama conveniently located to supply Capitalists to the core. three major market centers – Birmingham, One of these entrepreneurs was WilAtlanta and Chattanooga – with a comlie Bass who, with his partner Son Capp, modity that was much in demand. had a still on a creek off the Coosa River.

Whiskey.

When they ran off a batch they waited till Call it the “moonshine triangle.” night then took it down and across to the Now, I could spend a lot of time explainwest side where a truck from Birmingham ing the prohibitionary urges that caused waited. “Me an’ Son’d unload th’ likker,” legal liquor to be unavailable or overly Bass later recalled, “an’ then one of th’ expensive in those cities, but the point is men’d stick some bills in one of our han’s. that there was a need, or at least a desire, It’d be dark, an’ we wouldn’t count it till and scores of Alabamians were ready and we got back to th’ river, but we never was willing to meet it. beat.”

To the untrained eye, the fillers of this Honest men in an illegal business. need appeared to be little more than hardOpinions differ as to just what moonshinscrabble farm folks who (according to one ing was all about. Chamber of Commerce observer) might “plow a little, hunt a little, types, out to promote their communities as fish a little, but mainly passed their time law abiding and progressive, considered on their backsides in the shade of a tree, whiskey makers (and whiskey drinkers) as communing with their hounds and a jug one more obstacle to be overcome. of what, with a fine feeling for words, had Church folk brought down the Bible been named ‘bust-head’.” on the evils of drink, even going so far as But where do you think they got it – that to swear that the water was changed into poetic product? They made it. grape juice at the wedding in Cana. And Manufactured it locally and marketed the Federal Government, which was not it to the three corners of the moonshine well thought of anyway, confirmed its reptriangle. utation as an interferer and intruder when “Shine,” “Shinny,” “likker,” “corn,” it sent word that its agents, “revenoors,” “pop-skull,” “bust-head.” All the same would bust up any still they found. thing and all part of what was an honorable But it didn’t matter. tradition in the hills and hollows. It was a Moonshiners – hunted for in the hollows, way for poor folks to make money. Cotton prayed for in the pulpits, and criticized by was for valley farmers with good bottom good citizens – thumbed their noses at auland. Branch- heads and ridge-runners grew thority just as rural renegades have always corn, which didn’t sell for much unless done. Yet in their own way, they were also you created from it what William Faulkner solid citizens. Swap a coat and tie for the described as “that brown liquor” into which overalls they wore, clean them up a bit, “those fine fierce instants of heart and brain smooth out their language, and it would be and courage and wiliness and speed were hard to tell them from your regular Rotarconcentrated and distilled.” ian.

Only sometimes it wasn’t brown. It was Like any businessman they measured clear, like water, “white lightening,” and cost against gain, took acceptable risks, and you didn’t know what it was until you produced a product which they sold at a drank it. “Smooth as a breeze goin’ down,” fair price and a profit. an authority told an interviewer back in the As for quality control, to keep out the 1930s, “an’ lightnin’ crossed with a hur“rot gut” that threatened their reputation rycane in your stummick.” and the health of their customers, moonAnd as such, it often did damage to shiners judged their product by the tried those “fine fierce instants” Faulkner wrote and true “just right” standard, which was about. Some distillers put in snake heads to explained by an old fellow in Cleburne give it bite, horseshoes and nails for iron, County who was given a pint of “shine” and later, when there were automobiles, by his boss – as a reward for services cost cutters without respect for custom or rendered. Tossing back a swig the worker consumer condensed the steam in radiators pronounced it “jest right.” instead of copper coils and lead poisoned “What do you mean,” the boss asked. the product.

“Well,” came the reply, “if it was any “Moonshine Kills,” the billboard read. better you’d have kept it for yourself. And It did. if it was any worse, I couldn’t of drunk it.”

But, back in prohibition days, back in the Might not pass the FDA, but it worked 1920s and 30s, consumers were not so parjust fine among the folks. ticular. The money was good, and country Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Profesfolks decided that despite politicians who sor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville cited the Constitution, preachers who cited State University. He can be reached at scripture, and guardians of public morals hjackson@cableone.net. who clicked their collective tongues, it was Get you a copper kettle Get you a copper coil Fill it with new, fresh corn mash And nevermore you’ll toil “Copper Kettle” Early American Folk Song

T

In the Chapel

A

woman plays piano, a man pretty day. plays guitar. People sing.

An EpiscopaThe woman next to me is lian chapel. I singing with eyes closed. am seated beside my The bishop roams the friend, Tonye. We are room, whispering with singing along with members of the congregaeighty other people tion. And even though who hold song books.

By Sean Dietrich this is probably supposed Everyone is smiling. to be a reverent moment during the Big, cheesy smiles. service, everyone seems so chipper.

“Would y’all turn to page one Everyone is still smiling and acting forty-one?” the bishop says. very un-Baptist.

This is the first time I recall hearIt’s a little weird. ing the word “y’all” used from a But this weirdness fades when the pulpit. The Deepwater Baptists of bishop gets to me. my youth mostly used King James He winks at me. I’ve never been English. But then, this is not a Baptist winked at in church except when my church. The bishop, for instance, is cousin, Ed Lee, once placed a garter barefoot, wearing shorts and T-shirt. snake in the women’s restrooms. Ed I was not raised anywhere near Lee winked at me from across the an Episcopalian church. In fact, I sanctuary and gave me a thumbs-up. couldn’t even pronounce this word That was a very good Sunday. until I was twenty-four.

But the bishop is doing more than Still, I write about Episcopalians a winking. He is carrying a Styrofoam lot. Not on purpose. I do it because plate with globs of paint on it—a I like them, I guess. And more imfinger-painting palette. He dips his portantly, I do it because I like their thumb into red acrylic color and parties. traces something onto my forehead.

My people did not party. I was “Love you, brother,” he says. And raised around foot-washers who he sounds like he means it. knew all the lyrics to “Battle Hymn He makes his way around the of the Republic,” and tuned into room, touching foreheads. And soon, Lawrence Welk.

I see what’s going on. Everyone has But there is no Lawrence Welk different colored crosses on their here at Camp Beckwith. This place heads. is a primitive lodge in the woods of All hues. All shapes. All people.

Baldwin County where EpiscopaAll kinds. Everyone smiling. lians commune, fish, camp, laugh, We sing. We hold hands a few boil crawfish, and of course, throw more times. We form a single-file shindigs. line and sip wine from a cup. The The noseeums eat your flesh, the man serving me wine tips the glass mosquitoes commit immoral acts too far and spills merlot onto my upon your skin. There’s music, white shirt inadvertently staining it dancing, and a long line outside the with the Blood of the Lamb. I look women’s bathroom. It’s great. like I’ve been stabbed with a pool Camp cabins are filled with couples and families from South Ala- cue.

People snicker at me. A few snort. bama and Northwest Florida. These So help me, snorting in church. are people who use the word “y’all” Then, we sing again. We hear more liberally. They all know each other.

And they all actually like each other. scripture. We say a few words of liturgy. And these people do someWhat kind of church is this? thing to me. They make me feel good Last night, I was on a porch with inside. I don’t know what it is about thirty of them. We sat on rocking them. chairs and lit the woods on fire with When service is over, the bishop laughter. They sipped longneck recites what is called a “benedicbottles and told stories. tion” prayer. Not only, I am told, is Katie told a funny story about her a “benediction” a popular way to presenile granny. One woman talked pare eggs, but it is a formal blessing. about surviving cancer. One man Here’s a small piece of it: leaned backward in his chair and “Go out there, y’all,” he benedicts. began singing “Stayin’ Alive” at the top of his lungs, then paused to break “And love everyone you meet. And I mean everyone.” wind.

And well, I wrote this because I And this morning, I rose early and love Episcopalians, and I’m just trymet my friend Tonye for service. ing to do what he said. Y’all.

The bishop asks us to sit. He Sean Dietrich is a columnist and preaches. I won’t retell his sermon novelist known for his commentary because it’s not only what he says, on life in the American South. His it’s his heartfelt delivery.

He makes me laugh. He makes me work has appeared in Southern Living, the Tallahassee Democrat, think. He uses the word “y’all” at Southern Magazine, Yellowhamleast fourteen times. mer News, the Bitter Southerner, the After the bishop’s brief sermon, he tells us to stand in a circle. Eighty Mobile Press Register and he has authored seven books. folks join hands in the chapel. A

The Day I’m Standing in

H

er name was Gussie Coxwell.

She was the twelfth of thirteen children. She grew up in the South when cotton was king and nobody had much of anything else to show for their years of labor – just cotton and children. She was almost six feet tall, thin but surprisingly strong… picking cotton will do that to you. She had more Native American DNA in her blood than anything else. She became a wife, a mother, and, eventually, a grandmother to nine. I was the youngest of those nine.

My grandmother and I spent many days to-

gether – mostly golden, hot summer days – out in the country. I watched her tend her garden, and I watched her cook.

To this day, I can close my eyes and smell the air that hung over the kitchen table where she would lay out a feast for every meal. This was well before microwaves, and all the dishes were hot… at the same time!

I consider that now, as a microwave aficionado, to be nothing short of a miraculous gift.

There were times, many of them I’m sure, when my endless questions about so many subjects, must have driven her to distraction.

By Wendy Hodge

But she was ever patient and calm. A favorite topic of mine was “Who Was the First To… ?”

I ended that question a thousand different ways.

“Who was the first to wear socks with their shoes?” “Who was the first person to say ‘Bless you’ when someone sneezed?” “Who was the first person who decided to light something on fire and try to smoke it?”

She would answer, sometimes with a laugh but always with a smile, “I’m sure I don’t know, Wendy Lynne.”

My other verbal hobby was to pose questions about the future. “What do you think I’ll look like when I’m 30?” (This seemed about as ancient as I could possibly ever get.) “Do you think people will ever live on the moon?” “Who will be the hundredth president of the United States?”

“Will people still wear socks with their shoes in the year 2100?”

Looking back now, I realize that she must have sensed what I couldn’t fully commu-

nicate even to myself – I want to live forever….

Not out of some inflated sense of self-importance, but because I want to know. Everything. I’m outrageously curious and just plain nosy.

At the height of summer, the year I was 11 years old, my grandmother and I stood in her garden. In my memory, the air itself vibrated and shimmered with heat, and it was a golden light that left a halo around everything that stood still. I don’t remember how long we’d been standing there or how many questions I’d asked. But I do remember how she put

her hand on my arm and locked her pale eyes on mine and said, “Wendy Lynne, today is the only day we’re standing in.

Take a good, long look at it.”

Here I am, 40 years later, still hearing those words, still learning that lesson.

The other day, I was at a friend’s house, discussing a book she has written. We stood at her kitchen table, looking at illustrations and discussing how best to finish this project. She is a whirlwind of entrepreneurship, with so many irons in the fire and more See Hodge, page A8

pelika O Observer

Around Lee County

Smiths Station sees economic boost in 2018; posthumously honors Shirley Bolt for service

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor The City of Smiths Station’s boost in overall economic revenue during the last two years was the focal point of last Tuesday’s city council meeting.

According to statistics provided by the city’s Chief Finance Officer Shelby Branton, the city more than doubled its revenue from last year, jumping from $116,741.64 in September 2017 to $235,000 last month, which does not include additional income from the city’s solid waste department and recently implemented

ad valorem tax. Mayor Bubba Copeland praised the efforts of his city administration and council members for this feat.

“Let those numbers sink in for a moment - through our hard work and efforts and the city administration as a whole, we have doubled our profits in just a year’s time.

We have sought out revenue sources and means to grow out and expand this revenue, and this is thanks to all the effort and time that you the council have put into this,” Copeland said. “Being a businessman, I want you to know how proud I am

of all of ya’ll and for being so open-minded to allow us to negotiate some of these deals.”

With the additional revenue, Copeland proposed that the monies be used toward the betterment of the city’s overall infrastructure.

The council also honored longtime City of Smiths Station Zoning Board of Adjustment member Shirley Bolt through a proclamation and plaque presented to her family who were in attendance at the meeting.

“Please know that her passing will leave a hole in what we represent,” Copeland said to See Smiths, page A8

October 31, 2018

AACT to present six shows of ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ Special to the Opelika Observer

Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer

A5

Auburn Area Community Theatre will present six shows of “To Kill a Mockingbird” Nov. 8-11 and 15-18 at the Jan Dempsey Center in Auburn.

Sponsored by the Alabama 200 Bicentennial Commission, The AACT will bring this story to life based on the book written Alabama native Harper Lee. The novel won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1961 and has been translated into more than 40 languages and has sold more than 40 million copies worldwide. It has served as the basis for an enormously popular motion picture, and was voted as one of the best novels of the 20th century by librarians across the country.

Jean Louise Finch guides readers through this story by sharing her memories of growing up in

Maycomb, Alabama in 1935. Known as “Scout” when she is young girl, she is about to experience dramatic events that will affect the rest of her life.

Scout and her brother, Jem, are being raised by their strong-minded housekeeper, Calpurnia, and their widowed father, Atticus Finch, when the trial of a young black man begins to tear their town apart.

Scout begins to realize that just because society portrays something as being true does not mean that it actually is fact.

Although set in 1935, the thoughtprovoking topics of tolerance and racial injustice resonated with the social upheaval of the 1960s when the book was published, and these topics are still relevant today. This production contains adult topics and offensive language

within a historically accurate context. A gunshot effect will be used during the performance.

Shows on Nov. 8,9,10,15,16 and 17 will begin at 7 p.m. Nov. 11 and 18 will be the matinee shows, with each starting at 2 p.m.

Nov. 8th is “Pay What You Can” night, with ticket prices serving as a donation in any amount. The AACT will also host a talkback conversation with the Show Director Richard Trammell Nov. 15 following the performance (included with your ticket purchase).

Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors.

Call 334-332-0881 or visit www.auburnact.org for ticket purchases and more information. Email info@auburnact.org for group-rate information.

The venue is located at 222 E. Drake Ave.

Auburn University leads $2 million DOE project to maximize U.S. fuel economy Special to the Opelika Observer Auburn University researchers are leading a $2 million U.S. Department of Energy project that promises to improve fuel efficiency and economy.

The project will create a bio-based fuel additive that can be blended with diesel fuel to reduce soot and greenhouse gas emissions and yield cleaner engine operation in coldweather conditions.

Joining as collaborators in the research are Cornell University, the University of Alabama, Virginia Tech and corporate partners Microvi Biotech Inc. and EcoEngineers.

The project is one of 42 totaling $80 million awarded by the DOE to support advanced vehicles technologies research. Approximately $10.1 million of the funding will support six projects, including the one led by Auburn, focusing on the co-optimization of engines and fuels.

“We are developing an integrated bioprocess for efficient butyl acetate (BA) production,” said Yi Wang, principal investigator for the project and assistant professor in the Department of Biosystems Engineering in Auburn University’s College of Agriculture.

“We anticipate that

adding BA to diesel fuel will reduce pollutants and costs associated with meeting environmental regulations.”

Butyl acetate is an organic compound that occurs naturally in various fruits and can be used as a flavoring in the food industry and a feedstock in various other industries. BA can be produced chemically. However, traditional petrochemicalbased BA production is energy consuming and not environmentally friendly, Wang said.

Auburn researchers have developed a customized CRISPR-Cas9 genome engineering system that has resulted in

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an engineered strain with the highest BA production that has ever been reported in a microbial host (a patent has been filed from this work). The process uses a strain of Clostridium—a group of bacteria that thrive in the absence of oxygen—that is known for its ability to produce solvents.

“In this project, we will further enhance BA production through systematic genome engineering,” Wang said. “CRISPR technology has been used by many different labs, but we are one of the pioneering labs who have developed the customized CRISPR system that can be applied to the solven-

togenic clostridial strains, which are notoriously difficult to manipulate genetically.”

The knowledge generated from this research will be highly applicable to other bioprocesses and of broad interest to the scientific community and industry, he added.

“This project represents a complementary and synergistic collaboration between academia and industry,” Wang said. “Such efforts will decrease the cost and time required for developing new biotechnologies.”

The bioprocess development for highefficiency BA production in this project is based on

an innovative technology called MicroNiche Engineering.

“We are excited to be able to utilize our MicroNiche Engineering technology platform as part of this important project to help find better, more sustainable solutions for the transportation industry,” said Fatemeh Shirazi, CEO and CTO of Microvi Biotech Inc. Professor Emeritus Y.Y. Lee from the Chemical Engineering Department at Auburn University will focus on the downstream recovery of BA from the developed bioprocess.

See Fuel, page A8

pelika O Observer

A6 October 31, 2018

Blake E. Brookshire joins Capell & Howard P.C. Special to the Opelika Observer Capell & Howard P.C. is pleased to welcome Attorney Blake E. Brookshire to the firm.

Brookshire graduated from Auburn University with a bachelors degree in political science and received his juris doctorate, summa cum laude, from the University of Mississippi School of Law in spring 2018.

His practice includes primarily general civil defense litigation at both the trial and appellate level and covers various areas of law.

While in school,

Brookshire served as senior articles editor of the Mississippi Sports Law Review and associate editor of the Mississippi Law Journal. Additionally, he was the recipient of the Doc Cottier Award, the KARMA (Kids Against Ridicule Meanness and Aggression) Philanthropy Award for Outstanding Dedication to Community Service, and was named most outstanding member of the Trial Advocacy Board. Blake recently joined the Hugh Maddox Chapter of the American Inns of Court.

He resides in Auburn and is actively

Brookshire involved working with students to prevent bullying in local high schools.

Brookshire and his

Check Out Our New Tiger Town Location Across from Lowe’s, another convenient location to serve our customers

AuburnBank’s Tiger Town Kroger location has moved to a new, full-service location on Frederick Road in front of Lowe’s. Under the leadership of City President Eddie Smith, our new location provides three drive-up windows, a drive-up ATM, a night deposit drop, safe deposit boxes, consumer and commercial loans in addition to all our checking accounts, money market accounts, savings accounts,

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We look forward to serving you at the new Tiger Town Branch.

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wife Lauren, a labor and delivery nurse at East Alabama Medical Center, attend Auburn United Methodist

Church, enjoy cheering for their Auburn Tigers and spending time with their three rescue dogs.

Since 1947, the attorneys of Capell & Howard, P.C. have been providing clients professional expertise coupled with an abiding commitment to client service.

As a full-service provider of legal advice and representation, its attorneys have been recognized across a wide range of practice areas, including 16 attorneys in the 2018 edition of The Best Lawyers in America and five attorneys in the 2018 edition of Super Lawyers. The firm

also has served for many years as the sole Alabama representative in SCG Legal, an international association of law firms with offices in the capital city of each state and many financial centers around the world.

Based in Montgomery, Alabama, and with offices in Auburn-Opelika and Fairhope, the firm’s central location allows for efficient representation throughout the State.

In addition to its in- state client base, the firm serves as Alabama counsel for regional, national, and international companies.

Opelika E vents, Society, & Food Ann Cipperly’s

Southern

Hospitality

Celebrating 10 years of great cooks sharing favorite recipes

A

s the Observer celebrates its 10th anniversary, I have been enjoying looking over articles on featured cooks going back to the first issue of the paper. Opelika has many wonderful cooks, and it has been a joy to sit in homes to hear family stories and gather recipes.

I have been writing about food and features for much longer. I first started writing a food column called Southern Gourmet more than 41 years ago when Millard Grimes hired me to work at the original Opelika paper. The office was located just a couple of blocks from the Observer and is now a vacant lot.

I went on to become the lifestyle and food editor and later entertainment editor as well for 15 years. It was a hectic time writing, taking photos and laying out pages daily. I continued the food column along with others, including travel.

When I heard about the Observer, I had left the newspaper business and was writing for East Alabama Living magazine, which I still do. I had attended a neighborhood coffee and heard Flora Jane and Calvin Rhodes taking about the

new paper starting in Opelika. Since I worked from home for the magazine, which is four issues a year, I felt I had time to write more, especially about my hometown of Opelika that I love very much.

Calvin suggested that I call Charles Whatley, who said they would like for me to write for the paper and sent me to talk to the editor, Jayson Hill. As I talked to Jayson about my newspaper experience, I told him I loved writing about people, history, old houses, restaurants and food. Jayson said he would really like to have a weekly food column and features.

I had to think about what to call the new food column. I didn’t want to call it Southern Gourmet again. I felt I had returned more to my southern roots. Southern Gourmet started as a column combining southern cuisine from my family and gourmet from Don’s New York family that had lived many places, including Europe.

I decided Southern Hospitality reflected my love of home and family sitting around the dinner table sharing good times. My first column was about growing up in

Opelika. I wrote, “These days when I pull out my Mama’s big cast iron skillet from under the stove, I know my heart still clings to good southern style cooking, whether it is a classic dish or a gourmet recipe adapted with the seasonings and flavors of our heritage.

“As I plan menus for family and friends, I know hospitality is not about preparing elaborate meals or being fussy. It is simply sharing good food. The setting may include worn carpet, tattered edged chairs and a few chipped dishes, but a homemade meal shared with friends is a celebration of living well.”

Soon afterwards, I called friends to feature in the column. It was wonderful to see friends I had not seen in a while and to meet new people. I relish hearing people’s stories and gathering recipes that become some of my favorites too.

Some people say they are not interesting and don’t have good recipes, but I feel everyone has a story, and sometimes they have to cook whether they like it or not. There are almost always recipes tucked away from a See Recipes, page A9

Located in Historic Downtown Opelika

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U PC OM I NG EVENT S: • Comedy Competition • Veteran’s Gala • Alzheimer’s walk • March of dime celebrity chef’s dinner •Penny & Sparrow Concert

‘Penny and Sparrow,’ Joy Oladokun to perform in Opelika Nov. 13

Jahnke & Baxter

By Arnecia Walker For the Opelika Observer Opelika’s Cottonseed Studios welcomes the Texas-based band “Penny & Sparrow” and special guest Joy Oladokun to perform at John Emerald Distilling Company Nov. 13 from 7-11 p.m. to promote their latest album “Wendigo.”

The duo, Kyle Jahnke and Andy Baxter created their band in 2011 while at the University of Texas together, and since then have released five studio albums. Wendigo was released in September 2017.

When asked in an interview by AXS.com, Baxter described the theme of the album as the

study of fear.

“Essentially, a lot of the songs on this record meander in and around dark corners of stuff that scare us in this life,” Baxter said.

General admission tickets are available for $20 along with VIP ticket options. The American

soft-folk duo will kickoff the tour Nov. 2 in Utah and conclude Dec. 7 in Texas.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.pennyandsparrow.com. John Emerald Distilling Company is located at 706 N. Railroad Ave.

Oladokun

SSHS to stage ‘It’s Just Another High School’ November 15-17 Special to the Opelika Observer The Smiths Station High School Department of Theatre will stage three shows of “It’s Just Another High School” Nov. 15-17.

Shows will be held at the Smiths Station Junior High School

auditorium. The box office opens at 6:30 p.m. E.S.T. with the performance beginning at 7 p.m.

The play’s premise revolves around a high school theatre group finding a note from their drama teacher saying that he left because none of them had attended

rehearsals. With only a box of old props and scripts, will they manage to pull it off without adult supervision?

Tickets are $7 each.

For more information, call 334-6644070. The school is located at 1100 Lee Road 298.

11 AM - 3 PM Tuesday - Wednesday, Saturday 11 AM - 7 PM Thursday - Friday

pelika O Observer

A8 October 31, 2018

Hodge,

from A4 energy than I have ever been able to conjure up. The two of us stood there, discussing all her business ventures, and then our talk turned to relationships, as it always seems to do when more than one woman is in the same room together.

I heard myself saying, “I can’t wait for the day….” And she echoed that sentence, “It will be so nice when I finally…”

And I heard my grandmother’s voice interrupting… “Today is the only day we’re standing in.”

I shared that with my friend, with complete acknowledgement that I am nowhere near mastering this simple truth. We agreed, the two of us, that we have so much to be thankful for, so much to enjoy and to relish, and that we both need to be reminded to enjoy the moment.

It’s human nature, isn’t

Smiths,

from A5 Bolt’s daughter Marie Griffin. “She was a firecracker. I know that you guys will carry on her legacy.”

“She was always an inspiration to me, she always said what was on her mind and was very respectful in the process. We appreciate her service to the

it, to think ahead… to look to the future…. to long for what is to come.

We speak longingly of ‘‘once we’re done with diapers,’’ ‘‘the day the kids are all in school,’’ ‘‘when they can drive themselves all over town’’ or ‘‘when I get that promotion,’ ‘when we buy that house,’’ ‘‘when I finally retire.’’

But life, our real and only life, happens in the day we’re standing in. It happens right now.

Learning to find the joy in this day, in this moment, is the key to being not just happy but also content. I am convinced of this.

And so, I drive every Saturday, in search of the unexpected and glorious.

I stop and talk to people I’ve never met before in the hopes that they will share their story with me.

I circle the block to hear the end of my favorite song on the radio. I go outside when it rains so that I can truly feel the weather.

Yes, I plan for the

community,” said Place 2 Councilman Morris Jackson.

In other business, the council: • approved the purchase of two recycling bins from the City of Opelika for a total cost of $2. One bin will be placed at the Smiths Station Volunteer Fire Department Station 1 and the other behind the Smiths Station Government Center • heard the financial

future. I look forward to living on the water in a far-away country with my best friend whom I love.

But I also sit across the table and look at his face on a Wednesday night when there isn’t much time and there are a thousand distractions, and I smile and count myself as lucky as I’ve ever been. I haven’t perfected this yet, but I’m learning.

I’m still asking questions, but I am listening to the answers all around me.

Today is the only day I’m standing in. And I am standing with arms outstretched and heart wide open.

Wendy Hodge is an Opelika native, an empty nester and lover of all things Opelika.

She previously had a column titled A Word or Ten, which was featured in the Tennessee Star Journal and is currently awaiting release of her first novel with Harper Collins Publishing Company.

statements for the environmental and general fund budgets for the month of September from Branton.

The Smiths Station City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, with a work session starting at 5:30 p.m. E.S.T. and regular meeting at 6 p.m.

Their meetings are held at the Smiths Station Government Center, which is located at 2336 Lee Road 430.

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Bojangles 2520 Pepperell Pkwy Taco Bell Opelika 2400 Pepperell Park- Score: 95 way Opelika El Rey De Todos

Mexican Grill 1447 Opelika Road Opelika Score: 94 Zaxby’s Restaurant 2089 Frederick Road Opelika Score: 86 La Palma Seafood 203 C. Opelika Road Auburn Score: 66

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Fuel,

from A5 Engineering researchers at Cornell University and the University of Alabama will test diesel fuel blended with BA produced by Auburn researchers. The project goal is to understand how the fuel mix ignites and reacts in diesel engines used in commercial trucks.

Researchers at Cornell will examine more fundamental aspects of blending butyl acetate with diesel fuel in the form of droplets that represent the sub-grid element of a spray used for fuel injection into combustion engines.

“Our studies will elucidate the role of blending BA on burning without the flow and transport complexities found in a combustion engine,” said Professor Thomas Avedisian of Cornell's Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

Of interest are a fuel’s burn rate and propensity to form particulate matter or soot often found in an engine's exhaust stream.

“The data we obtain will have broader applicability that could lead to high fidelity models for predicting in-cylinder performance of BA blends in combustion engines,” Avedisian said.

Different mixes of the fuel—some with more

BA than others—will be investigated using a unique spray diagnostic apparatus developed at the University of Alabama and in UA’s heavyduty diesel engine test platform, one of the few engine test cell facilities in the country.

“Our engine facilities and capabilities complement well with Auburn’s ability to produce the fuel,” said Joshua A. Bittle, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at UA. “We are providing research support from the end-user side,” said Ajay K. Agrawal, the Barfield Endowed Chair professor in mechanical engineering at UA. “We will find out how this fuel mix improves engine emissions and efficiency both inside the engine cylinder and in an actual engine during a typical drive cycle.”

Before a new process such as this can be up-scaled for commercialization, a technoeconomic analysis (TEA) is warranted. Virginia Tech’s role in the project is to conduct a TEA to evaluate the economic practicality of the biofuel being produced, said Haibo Huang, an assistant professor in the Department of Food Science and Technology.

“We will develop comprehensive process models to rigorously calculate chemical, energy and water consumption in the scaled-up process,” Huang said. “Based on this platform data,

we can determine the production cost of BA from the fermentation route and ultimately the economic feasibility of the process at a commercial scale. The outcome of TEA will be used as a guideline for directing future research of BA production from engineered Clostridium and will be vital for the future commercialization of the project.”

Quantifiable reductions in a fuel’s lifecycle emissions is one of the key factors in successful commercialization due to increasingly tighter restrictions on emissions in the transportation sector. The other corporate partner in the research project, EcoEngineers, a renewable energy consulting firm headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, will perform a lifecycle emissions analysis of BA as a bioblendstock for diesel fuel.

“For this project, we will share our carbon analysis expertise to perform GREET (greenhouse gases, regulated emissions and energy use in transportation) lifecycle analysis and provide additional support as needed to quantify the environmental benefits of BA as a bioblendstock,” said Zhichao Wang, agricultural and environmental engineer with EcoEngineers.

The project is an example of Auburn’s strategic partnerships that deliver practical, life-changing solutions to pressing national needs.

pelika O Observer Recipes,

grandmother, aunt or friends. Some of these turn out to be family treasures.

If I don’t have a cook to feature, then I pull out one of my tubs filled with recipes collected and created over the years. I started early creating my own recipes. Sometimes I would make a dish from what was on hand or looked over several versions of a similar recipe to create my own.

When I have a themed article with my recipes, I also like to include recipes from others in the community. If I am writing about cakes, for instance, I will ask people I know who enjoy baking for a recipe. I feel it makes the column more interesting.

Over the years, I have made new friends and try to keep up with how they are doing. I have been heartsick many times when a former cook has become ill. As I look over the articles, I am surprised how many friends I have lost.

A few years ago, I wrote about Nancy Davis, who I had featured years earlier when she had twins. I was sad to learn she was battling cancer.

When we met for the interview, we discovered that we both had appointments at M.D. Anderson during the same week, which was just several weeks away. We planned to meet and pray for each other.

A few days before leaving for Houston, I checked with Nancy and was heartbroken to hear she had become too ill for the trip. It was one of the most difficult journeys to make, causing me to miss her funeral.

Lilli Jackson was another feature cook that I deeply admired. I had written about Lilli at Easter one year for Southern Gourmet and went back to write about her for this column. I saw her

painting a hay bale by the driveway to her home, Sunset Farm. I took a photo of her and Carson laughing and picking vegetables in the garden.

Lilli was one of the most courageous people I have met, and I can’t drive by the farm without tears.

So many other featured cooks gone too soon include Mary Anne Drake, Mary Samford, Lil Tatum, Polly Jernigan, Cordelia Klinner, Pat Humphries, Pete Mitchell, Susan Hopson and others. B.J. Horn wasn’t a featured cook, but she was a great encourager.

As I look over the names, I realize without a miracle, I would be on the list. The only time I have missed writing the column was when I took a leave to have surgery at UAB that turned out to be a very rare stage four cancer.

On the way home, I came down with a life- threatening infection that many people don’t survive, even if they have not had major surgery.

The doctor at UAB, who gave me a prescription for anti-depression pills, sent me to see a cancer doctor, who gave me no hope and another prescription for anti-depression pills.

I will forever be thankful God had another plan.

Eight years later, I am thankful for many things, including being able to live in Opelika and write about the community I love where I grew up.

A special thanks to all the readers who pick up the paper every week and see what their neighbors are sharing.

As you read the articles, I hope the message comes through to appreciate every day and see it as a gift to spend time with your family, to sit around a table together, say grace and treasure each moment together, regardless of what is on the menu.

The following sampling of recipes over the years includes a small excerpt from the articles.

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

Green Salad with Cranberries and Pecans Ann Fuller Ann sets the table the day before with sparkling crystal and china. While in England, she purchased Spode china in a pattern featuring deer, black bear and other wild animals trimmed in lacy brown edging.

Her granddaughters design the place cards and will set them at the dining room table, which seats 12, the kitchen table, a card table in the foyer and a table in the den.

1 cup pecan halves ½ cup extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup red wine vinegar 3 garlic cloves, crushed 3 Tbsp. lemon juice 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. pepper ¼ tsp. dry mustard

8 oz. spring salad mix ½ cup dried cranberries 1 cup crumbled feta cheese Spread pecans in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate lined with wax paper.

Microwave on high for 1 minute and stir.

Microwave for 20 seconds longer, if needed to toast pecans.

Combine olive oil, vinegar, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper and dry mustard in a jar with a tight-fitting lid; seal tightly. Shake to combine.

Toss pecans, salad mix, cranberries and cheese in salad bowl. Add ¼ cup vinaigrette and toss to coat. Taste and add additional dressing if desired.

Serve immediately. Store remaining vinaigrette in refrigerator. Serves 6 to 8.

Baked Raspberry Brie Libba Herring In a picturesque setting amid towering pines and hardwoods over rolling hills, Dr. Ronny and Libba Herring of Opelika celebrate Christmas in the country.

Aromas from the kitchen drift throughout the house. Libba is in the kitchen baking her favorite appetizer, Raspberry Baked Brie, a flavorful,

colorful dish for the holidays, served with green apples and crackers.

1 sheet frozen puff pastry 1 5”- 6” round Brie cheese 3 Tbsp. raspberry preserves ¼ cup sliced almonds Granny Smith apples Crackers Spray cookie sheet with Pam. Thaw puff pastry sheet.

Lay flat on cookie sheet.

from A7

Mother James’ Coffee Cake Dora James Nestled among towering trees in idyllic, country surroundings, the home of Dora James is the setting for the James’ family Christmas. While the house is festively decorated and scrumptious meals are planned, the family’s main tradition and emphasis is sharing and giving to others at Christmas.

1 cup butter 2 cups plus 4 tsp. sugar, divided 2 eggs 1 cup sour cream 1/2 tsp. vanilla 2 cups flour 1 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. salt 1 cup chopped pecans 1 tsp. cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, add 2 cups sugar gradually, beating until very light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla. Fold in the flour, which has been sifted with the baking powder and salt.

Combine the remaining 4 tsp. sugar, pecans and cinnamon. Place 1/3 of batter in well- greased 9-inch tube pan. Sprinkle with 3/4 of pecan mixture. Spoon in remaining 2/3 batter. Sprinkle with remaining pecan mixture. Bake 60 minutes or until well done. Cool on rack.

Yields 10 to 12 servings. Freezes well.

Banana Pudding Trifle Mary Barnes Newman Mary Barnes enjoys stories her parents, Polly and Charlee Jernigan, tell about parties at the first country club. She vividly remembers a dance party at the club when she was in the sixth grade. Sitting in the living room of the historic house, stories from her parents and grandparents of Opelika’s past portray images of carefree days, music, celebrations and good food.

1 1/3 cups sugar ¾ cups flour Pinch of salt 4 cups milk 8 egg yolks 1 tsp. vanilla 5 or 6 bananas 6 Toffee bars, crushed or 8 oz. pkg.

Heath toffee bits Vanilla wafers Topping 2 cups whipping Welcome Lane Chicken Divan Lilli Jackson At the end of a rainy day, Carson is in the garden gathering new potatoes, asparagus, cabbage and baby carrots with the earth still clinging to them.

Afterwards, he will join Lilli by the gazebo filled with flowers. It is their favorite place to unwind at the end of the day and to enjoy glorious sunsets, the reason his grandmother named the setting Sunset Farm. Nearby are dozens of birdhouses with cheerful chirping drifting across the garden.

8 boneless chicken breasts 4 cups chicken broth ½ cup butter 10-12 Tbsp. flour 1 cup whipping cream ½ Parmesan cheese

Center the Brie cheese. Top with raspberry preserves and then almonds. Fold pastry sheet closed.

Bake at 300 degrees for 30 minutes; then increased temperature to 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes until browned. Serve with Granny Smith apple slices and crackers.

Libba uses Dickson’s preserves.

A9 October 31, 2018 Mimi’s Sausage Coffee Cake Mary Samford Although the locations and some of the recipes have changed over the years, Thanksgiving remains a family time for Mary and Yetta with gratitude for country and God’s blessings.

“Sometimes during the day,” says Mary, “we stop and thank God for the blessings He has bestowed on our family and country and for the right to worship according to our belief in God.” 1 lb. sausage ½ cup chopped onion ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese ½ cup grated Swiss cheese 1 egg, beaten ¼ tsp. Tabasco sauce 1½ tsp. salt

2 Tbsp. chopped parsley 2 cups Bisquick baking mix ¾ cup milk ¼ cup mayonnaise 1 egg yolk 1 Tbsp. water Brown sausage and onions; drain. Add next 6 ingredients. Make a batter of Bisquick, milk and mayonnaise. Spread half of batter in 9 by 9 by 2-inch greased pan or a 9 by 13-inch for a thinner cake. Spread sausage mixture over batter; then add remaining batter on top.

Mix egg yolk and water; brush top. Bake at 400 degrees 25-30 minutes or until cake pulls away from side of pan. Cool 5 minutes before slicing. Freezes well Note: Great to freeze ahead for Thanksgiving breakfast.

cream 2 Tbsp. powdered sugar Combine sugar, flour and salt in a saucepan; whisk in milk. Bring to a boil on medium heat whisking constantly.

Remove from heat.

Beat egg yolks; gradually add hot mixture into egg yolks, stirring constantly. Return to burner and boil one minute, continuing to whisk; add vanilla.

Layer one-third vanilla wafers into six cup trifle bowl or four quart baking dish.

Top with one-third bananas, one-third custard and one-third toffee. Repeat layers twice. Spread with topping; sprinkle with toffee. Makes 10-12 servings.

Variation: Can combine ¼ cup bourbon and 2 Tbsp. rum to brush over vanilla wafers.

Andy’s Restaurant Macaroni and Cheese Julia Moreman One of her grandchildren’s favorites is Andy’s Restaurant Macaroni and Cheese. This is a family recipe that was served at Andy’s Restaurant. Dick’s parents owned Andy’s. Dick helped at the restaurant at one time before his sister, Mari Crim, ran the business for many years.

Andy’s was once the most popular restaurant in Ope-

lika, and many will recall attending club lunches and wedding parties there.

1 small box elbow macaroni ½ stick butter 1 egg ½ cup milk 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese Salt and pepper to taste Cook macaroni according to directions on box. Drain and mix with other ingredients. Bake 1 hour at 350 degrees.

Evelyn’s Rolls Katy Melton When Katy married Crawford, they began going to his parents Evelyn and Stanley Melton’s home on Christmas night, which included extended family with 40 or 50 attending.

Christmas dinner at his parents would include Evelyn’s heavenly rolls along with turkey and ham in their spacious home on Geneva Street built in the late 1800s.

The elegant home with its high ceilings would be decorated at Christmas with magnolia leaves, holly along with other fresh greenery.

Evelyn’s Rolls

2/3 cup sugar 2 tsp. salt 1 cup Wesson oil 1 cup milk 2 beaten eggs 2 pkg. yeast 1 cup warm water 5-6 cups flour Scald milk, add to sugar, salt and oil. Add eggs. Dissolve yeast in water, add to cooled milk mixture; add 3 cup flour.

Beat well. Let rise until doubled. Beat down, add 3 cup flour (soft dough). Grease top of dough. Cover in refrigerator overnight. Roll out, Brush with oleo, cut in circles. Fold over. Let rise. Bake 12-15 minutes at 375 degrees.

3-4 Tbsp. white cooking wine 1-2 heads of broccoli, cut up into stalks 2 cups grated extra sharp cheese Cook chicken breasts in salted water. Use the chicken broth and mix with flour, butter, salt and pepper in a saucepan, stirring to blend. Add whipping cream, Parmesan cheese and wine to the thickened broth mixture. Simmer until thickened.

Cook fresh broccoli until tender; drain well.

Place broccoli in casserole dish and cover with half of the sauce.

Place layer of cut-up chicken; cover with remaining sauce.

Place grated cheese on top.

Bake 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Can freeze.

Crawford’s Mother’s Lemon Cheese Cake Lil Tatum In her home on 10 th Street where Lil and Crawford Tatum Sr. have lived since 1954, nearly all of their children, grandchildren and great -grandchildren will gather for Christmas dinner.

While the family has grown over the years, Lil will serve basically the same menu prepared by Crawford’s mother when they were first married.

For many years, Lil prepared the entire Christmas dinner herself. Now she is happy to have help from daughters-in- law Lynn and Sara Jane, and daughter Carol.

1 cup Crisco 2 cups sugar 3 cups sifted flour 3 tsp. baking powder 1 cup milk 7 egg whites, beaten 1 tsp. vanilla Sift flour and baking

powder. Cream sugar and shortening. Add flour mixture alternately with milk until well mixed.

Stir in vanilla and fold in beaten egg whites. Pour into three greased and floured pans.

Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes or until tests done. Cool and frost with Lemon Cheese Icing.

Lemon Cheese Icing 7 egg yolks 3 Tbsp. flour 1½ cups granulated sugar ½ cup lemon juice ¼ cup warm water Rind of 1 lemon, grated ½ stick butter Beat egg yolks well; add flour and sugar that have been sifted together.

Then add lemon juice and water.

After mixing thoroughly, add rind of lemon and butter. Cook in double boiler until thick.

Cool; then ice cake.

Shrimp Remoulade Salad Sherry Freeman Looking over handwritten family recipes from her childhood, Sherry recalls growing up along the Mississippi Gulf coast at Moss Point, Miss., between Mobile and Biloxi. Over the years Sherry has changed how she cooks. She still serves fish often, but these days it is salmon and tilapia.

One of her favorite seafood dishes from childhood is Shrimp Remoulade Salad.

1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 Tbsp. Creole mustard 1 Tbsp. horseradish 1 1/2 tsp. chili sauce 1½ Tbsp. dill pickle relish 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp. capers, finely chopped 1 Tbsp. tarragon vinegar

1/2 tsp. chopped garlic 2 drops Tabasco 4 boiled eggs, crumbled 2 lbs. boiled, shelled shrimp Shredded lettuce Mix first 10 ingredients.

Carefully toss eggs and shrimp. Add sauce and mix until well covered. Serve on beds of lettuce with crackers.

Serves 8.

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A10 October 31, 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 256-307-1449.

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 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

‘TigerTown Scavenger Hunt’ slated for Nov. 17 Special to the Opelika Observer Join us for an exciting Scavenger Hunt through TigerTown for a chance to win prizes, merchandise and gift cards! Simply stop by National Bank of Commerce from 10 a.m - 1 p.m. Nov. 17 to pick up

your contest map. The bank is located at 2443 Enterprise Drive.

A manager at each participating store will validate your contest map.

Return your completed map between the hours of 2-4 p.m to Kinnucan’s located in TigerTown at 2564

Enterprise Drive.

We will draw for winners at 4:15 at Kinnucans.

No purchase is necessary and you do not have to be present to win.

Don’t miss your chance to win amazing prizes from participating TigerTown merchants.

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 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, bowl-

ing, 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 334480-2008.

•Nov 5 - Lee County Voters League will meet at 6 p.m. at Bethesda Baptist Church which is located at 201 South 4th Street in Opelika. They will implement their “Get Out the Vote” efforts for the general election the following day.

• Nov 6 - Election Day - Do your part and go vote • Nov. 7 - The Lee County Master Gardeners meeting will be at the Harris Center, 425 Perry St. in Auburn, Nov. 7 at 12:30 p.m. The public is invited.

During this month’s meeting some of the recipients of the Lee County Master Gardeners Grant Program will speak on how the grants have benefited them in helping the community. Visit LeeMG.org for additional information on the grant program.

Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.

Trick-or-Treat, Salty or Sweet?

Special to the Opelika Observer

BurgerFi is celebrating the spookiest day of the year by offering a free small custard or free small fries to anyone who visits the restaurant

in costume Oct. 31 at participating BurgerFi restaurants nationwide (limit one per guest, no substitutions*.)

BurgerFi is located at 2145 Interstate Drive in Opelika. *One free small

custard or one free small fries per guest in costume. Cannot be combined with any other offer or special, In-store orders only. No phone online or delivery orders. No Purchase necessary.

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A11 October 31, 2018

20th Annual ‘Juried Art Exhibition’ on display through Nov. 20 Special to the Opelika Observer The 20th annual "Juried Art Exhibition" will be on display at the Jan

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF RICHARD BENNIE WORD, Deceased PROBATE COURT LEE COUNTY CASE NO. 2018-B-214 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Take Notice that LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of the Estate of RICHARD BENNIE WORD deceased having been granted to Patricia Word Jones, on the 12th day of September 2018, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama.

Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will barred.

Patricia Word Jones Legal Run 10/17, 10/24 & 10/31/18

IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: MARTHA A. RAY, Deceased Case No.: 2017-A-153 NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that Benjamin H. Parr, Administrator of the Estate of MARTHA A. RAY, deceased, has filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, his accounts, vouchers, and statements for a FINAL SETTLEMENT of the Administration of the Estate of MARTHA A. RAY. A hearing has been set for the 13th day of November, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. in the courtroom of the Lee County Courthouse located at 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama 36801.

Done the 10th day of October, 2018.

Bill English, Probate Judge Legal Run 10/17/18,

Dempsey Community Arts Center through Nov. 20.

Works of 40 local and area artists will be on display in the main gallery. These

10/24/18 & 10/31/18

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY A. SAMFORD, 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 4th day of October, 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.

AUSTILL S. LOTT and KATHERINE S. ALFORD Co-Personal Representatives Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 10/17/18, 10/24/18, 10/31/18

Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Extra Space Storage 1412 Opelika Rd. Auburn Al, 36830 on 11/14/2018 at 2:00 p.m.

Mary Booker Unit# R313 640 N Ross St apt G5 Auburn, AL, 36830 Tables, decorations, books, papers Monisha Smith Unit# D68 217 Camellia Ave Opelika AL 36801

pieces will feature most art mediums except photography.

The exhibition's opening reception was held Oct. 26 to recognize the artists

who submitted pieces.

The Auburn Arts Association mission is to promote arts education, to encourage and support local artists and arts initia-

LEGALS

One bedroom suite, tv, 5 boxes, wine rack Ricardo Wilkerson Unit# 246 321 1st Ave NW Lafayette, AL, 36862 Furniture and boxes Marcus May Unit# B35 1521 Fitzpatrick Ave APT 4A Opelika, AL, 36801 Household furniture Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.

Legal Run 10/24/18 & 10/31/18

IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA; Case No.: 2018-C-002 IN THE ESTATE OF JACQUELYNE P. HORNE, DECEASED Take notice that Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to HERBERT RICHARD HORNE, Jr., Personal Representative, on the 18th day of October, 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.

Legal Run 10/24/18, 10/31/18 & 11/07/18

Letters Testamentary on the estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 15 th day of October, 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.

DOROTHY JEAN COOPER Personal Representative Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 36803-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 10/17, 10/24 & 10/31

NOTICE OF ABANDONED MOTOR VEHICLE SALE To be held on Tuesday, November 20, 2018, at 10 a.m. at Best 4 Less at 2509 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika, AL 36801.

1HGCD5634TA009767 1996 HONDA ACCORD 1HGEG8659RL037399 -

tives, and to foster community interest and participation in the arts.

For more information, call 334-5012963 or visit www.

auburnalabama.org/ arts or www.auburnarts.org. Email auburnartsassn@gmail. com. The facility is located at 222 E. Drake Ave.

1994 HONDA CIVIC 1P3EJ46X4YN171265 - 2000 PLYMOUTH BREEZE 2G4WY55J711140484 2001 BUICK CENTURY

1B7HC13Z71J535798 2001 DODGE RAM 1500 Legal Run 10/24/18 & 10/31/2018

ON-THE-JOB TRAINING PROGRAM LETS YOU EARN WHILE YOU LEARN!

Visit your local Career Center and ask about the On-the-Job Training Program!

Earn a salary while learning a skilled trade

JOBLINK.ALABAMA.GOV Funding provided by the USDOL, ETA, Federal WIOA. An Equal Opportunity Employer/Program.

Auxiliary aids and services available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF OLA J. MCKNIGHT, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALBAMA

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS Looking for Work Caregiver/house cleaning. Excellent references and years of experience.

334-734-1333.

For Rent Horse Farm -3845 Sand Hill Rd., Auburn Lovely setting for this

3 bdrm/1 bath house freshly renovated. Pastures and barn included. $1500.00 per month.

Available now. Call Rice Rentals -334-364-0480 809 2nd Avenue 7000 sq. ft. commercial building for rent or sale. Contact The Brown Agency at 334-745-3584 or visit thebrownagency.

com/rentals/listing/127 Affordable office space Located in downtown Opelika for low traffic business. Utilities included. Two small offices for $395.00 each and 1 large office for $525.00. All are upstairs. Call Rice Rentals at 334-364-0480.

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900 Cutler Ridge Rd., Opelika - 3 bdrm/2 bath with garage and fenced back yard. $1375.00 per month. Call Rice Rentals at 334-364-0480

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In the city of Opelika near EAMC. No smoking and no pets. $850/mo. Call 334887-8022

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Opelika

A12

Family & Religion

October 31, 2018

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

ictionary. com defines virtue signaling as “the action or practice of publicly expressing opinions or sentiments intended to demonstrate one’s good character or the moral correctness of one’s position on a particular issue.”

Although social media has certainly provided the means for this to be done on a larger scale than ever before, there is absolutely nothing new about virtue signaling—it has been around as long as man has.

When a politician or celebrity shows up at homeless shelter or food kitchen for a photo op—they are engaged in virtue signaling. When some-

behaviors. one donates Giving is some money about parat a retail ticipating establishpositively in ment and has the lives of their name others. put on the Praying is wall for all to By Bruce Green see—they are Teaching Minister at about seekvirtue signal- 10th Street Church of ing the reign Christ in Opelika of God in ing. It’s hard our lives not to see a (see v. 10). Fasting five-year old wearing is about focusing on a tee shirt that says, God in some special “Well done Mom and way. (And just for Dad, I’m awesome” the record, Jesus did as virtue signaling on say “When you fast” someone’s part! rather than “If you This is exactly the fast” – v. 16). kind of thing that’s However, Jesus under consideration in Matthew 6:1-18 where brings these things up because they weren’t Jesus talks about being practiced in the giving, praying and right way. All of these fasting. He’s in favor behaviors were being of doing all three used for virtue signalthings because when ing by certain people. done correctly they Giving was beare healthy, helpful

Church calendar

• Pepperell Baptist is offering a Wednesday evening ministry program from 5:45 p.m. to 7 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 334-745-3108.

• Pepperell Baptist Church will hold a Community Trunk or Treat Oct. 31 in their church parking lot. Church members will open up their trunks and share candy and games with the children as they visit each of the decorated

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

trunks. The event will last from 5:30 - 7 p.m. The event is open to the public and whole families are encouraged to come out for a night of wholesome fun. For more information, contact PBC’s children’s/ youth pastor Ryno Jones at 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.

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

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 Sun 12pm-6pm Sun 12pm - 6pm

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

ing done in a highly visible manner so the giver would be “honored by others” (v. 2).

Praying was done in the same way “to be seen by others” (v. 5).

Fasting was done in such a way as to show others they were fasting (v. 16).

Righteousness is a central theme of Jesus’ teaching in the sermon on the mount.

He uses the word 5 times (5:6,10,20, 6:1,33) but almost everything He says in the three chapters deals with the subject.

Righteousness is doing the right thing for the right reason.

The hypocrites (virtue signalers) were doing the right thing for the wrong reason.

In contrast, Jesus

said to “let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (5:16).

This tells us the kind of behavior that God desires—a life lived to His glory. We don’t need bumper stickers, tee shirts or social media posts calling attention to our deeds—just serve in a quiet, simple way and give the glory to God. There’s no need to publicize what we’re doing.

God will make sure whoever needs to see it does. Trust Him. Bruce has written a book on the model pray called Praying in the Reign. It is available through 21st Century Christian.

Verse of the Week

Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established.

Proverbs 16:3 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

pelika O Observer

A13 October 31, 2018

OBITUARIES Betty Mae Townsend 1923 - 2018

George Alvin Andrews 1946 - 2018

Rita C. White 1947 - 2018

Graveside services for Betty Mae Townsend, of Opelika, Alabama was Thursday, October 25, at 2:00 p.m., at Hillview Cemetery in Alexander City, Alabama. Dr. Mike King officiated. Visitation was Thursday from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Mrs. Townsend passed away Tuesday, October 23rd at her home. She was born June 11, 1923 in Alexander City, Alabama. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Opelika, Alabama since the early 1960's.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Mabry Townsend.

She is survived by her daughter, Luanne Townsend, of Opelika, Alabama; son, James Mabry Townsend (Jeanne) of Knoxville, Tennessee; granddaughter, Ashley (Stephen) West of Franklin, Tennessee; great-grandchildren: Eli and Anna West of Franklin, Tennessee. The family thanks Deborah Buckhannon and Alice Bowen for their many years of care and service.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorials to the Alabama Baptist Children’s Home.

Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed. www.jeffcoattrant.com

Mr. George Alvin Andrews, 72, of Auburn passed away Saturday, October 20, 2018 at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika. A funeral service was held at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 at 2:00pm, burial followed at Garden Hills Cemetery. Reverend Patrick Craig will be officiating the service. Visitation was held at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home on Monday, October 22, 2018 from 6:00pm until 8:00pm.

Mr. Andrews was the longtime director of Grifftex Chemical Company in Opelika until its closing, along with West Point Stevens. Mr. Andrews was loved by all, he was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Mr. Andrews is preceded in death by his parents Dr. George Alvin Andrews, Sr., and Mrs. Gladys Culberson Andrews.

Mr. Andrews is survived by his loving wife, Ellen Andrews; daughter, Beverly Sharon Elkins (Sam); grandchildren: Culberson Ann Elkins, and Samuel Elkins; cousin, Eliza Cocke; and special friend Darren Yancy (Rene) Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.

Rita C. White of Opelika, Alabama was born on September 18, 1947 and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on October 26, 2018.

She was 71 years old.

She loved traveling and had traveled extensively over the years with family and friends.

She was a joy to all who knew her and set an example through sickness and shining love for God through all her pain and suffering. Rita retired from Wal-Mart in Opelika. No service is planned per her wishes. She was one of a kind and she traveled her last trip to heaven to be with the Lord.

She is preceded in death by her parents Sis and Thurman Langley and her brother David Langley.

She is survived by son, Tim White, daughter and son-in-law, Tracy and Mickey Hamby, granddaughter, Savannah Hamby and Sister and brother in law, Kay and Jim Rudy. Also nieces and nephews who loved her and long time friend of forty two years Gwen and Lou Kiser.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Colon Cancer Research.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.

Amber Coggin McLeroy 1947-2018 Amber Coggin McLeroy of Opelika, was born in Alexander City, Alabama on April 19, 1947 and passed away at Arbor Springs on October 17, 2018. She was 71 years old.

She was a member of First Baptist Church of Opelika.

She worked and served on the board of The American Red Cross for more than 25 years. She had a heart for service, having worked at the Opelika Housing Authority, Sylvia Word Manor, and Timothy Manor as

Property Manager.

She was preceded in death by her father, Carter Lee Earl Coggin; nephews, Rick and Jim Tankersley.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, William "Bill" McLeroy, Jr.; children, Lee McLeroy (Vickie), April DossMcLeroy (Candi);

grandchildren, Justin McLeroy (Courtney Harris), Chris McLeroy; great grandchildren, Hudson and Sawyer McLeroy; mother, Gertrude Coggin; siblings, Faye Tankersley (Jimmy), Mike Coggin (Carol), Mitch Coggin (Linda); nieces and nephews, Danny, Mike, Brandi,

Wade, and Margaret.

Memorial services were held Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home which Reverend Mitch Coggin officiated.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations to be made to Brantwood Children's

Home in Montgomery, Alabama or Toys for Tots/FOP Lodge 21 in Opelika.

The family would like to thank the Staff at Arbor Springs and Southern Hospice for their love and support shown to us during this time.

Frederick-Dean Funeral Home directed.

Congratulations to the opelika observer

10 years

A14 October 31, 2018

pelika O Observer

Jean Dean RIF’s 2018 ‘Run to Read’ held Saturday at West Ridge Park

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

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Opelika Schools & Sports Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports

Upcoming Football Games

Oct. 26

Beauregard (off) Beulah v. McKenzie (A) Opelika (off) Smiths Station v. Eufaula (A)

TCS varsity boys soccer wins GICAA State Championship

On the Mark

By D. Mark Mitchell

Opelika volleyball’s run ended last week

T

he Opelika High School volleyball team’s season ended in the Super Regionals last week.

The Lady Bulldog’s lost 3-0 to Chelsea at the Multiplex at Crampton Bowl in Montgomery.

The team reached the Super Regional for the first time in more than 10 years. Coach Robin Roberts continues to find ways to build a competitive volleyball program.

Congrats to the Opelika volleyball team.

Opelika beats Vigor 23-22 in OT Opelika (5-4) beat Vigor (8-1) 23-22 in overtime last Friday night at Bulldog Stadium.

Prior to kickoff, Opelika recognized senior members of the band, cheerleaders and football team.

The 5A Wolves entered the game with a stingy defense, allowing fewer than a touchdown per game through seven games.

The 6A Bulldogs entered the game having played a tougher schedule, however.

Opelika struck first, with placekicker Marshall Meyers nailing a 39-yarder with room to spare with 3:02 left in the opening quarter.

Vigor answered with a touchdown after Kyle Walker threw a 33-yard pass to James Jackson.

The Wolves missed the PAT and led by three with 11:25 left in the first half.

On the ensuing possession, Opelika quarterback Cade Blackmon threw a 40-yard pass to Walker Beams for a TD. Coach Speakman went for the two-point conversion instead of the extra point. The conversation failed leaving Opelika with a 9-6 lead.

Opelika blocked a Vigor punt on the ensuing possession, taking over See Opelika, page B3

Special to the Opelika Observer The Trinity Christian School varsity boys soccer team led by Coach Dick Hayley won the GICAA State Championship in Lilburn, Georgia, earlier this month. They defeated top-seeded HALO Wolfpack Oct. 2 to advance to the GICAA State Championship game against Killian Hill Christian School, whom they defeated 2-0.

Beulah rallies to beat Pike Road, will host first-round playoff game

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Stellar play from running back Chris Person and dominant defensive play in the second half helped propel Beulah to a 29-24 victory over Pike Road Friday night.

Trailing 24-14 at halftime, the Bobcats outscored the Patriots 15-0 in the second

Smiths Station eliminated from playoff contention, falls 23-18

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Smiths Station was eliminated from playoff contention last Friday following a heartbreaking 23-18 loss to region foe Prattville.

After falling behind 14-0 to Prattville in the first period, the

Panthers were able to swing the momentum back in their favor, as quarterback Corey Minton connected on a 19-yard touchdown pass to Payton Wiggins early in the second quarter. Kicker Taylor Walker added a field goal minutes later to give the Panthers a four-point deficit going

into halftime.

The only score in the third quarter came on a 25-yard dash from Prattville’s dual-threat quarterback Taair Edwards.

Both teams’ defenses anchored down, forcing multiple three-andouts during the next handful of pos See Panthers, page B4

half to clinch not only their seventh win of the season a but second-place finish in Class 3A Region 3, guaranteeing them the opportunity least one home playoff game.

“We were doing things on offense that were hurting them throughout the game, and we just kind of wore on them there at the end. The home crowd was great too,

because everytime we needed a stand, they got behind us,” said Beulah Coach Cody Flournoy. “I’m so proud to be here.”

Things got off to a shaky start for Beulah, as Pike Road relied heavily on the legs of quarterback Cedric Paymon to move the ball on See Bobcats, page B3

Hornets tackle Tigers 26-21; to host first-round playoff game

By Rick Lanier Opelika Observer D-E-F-E-N-S-E! Beauregard displayed a ton of it, especially late in the fourth quarter when the outcome of their game v. Tallassee was very much uncertain.

A key stop on fourthand-goal from their own one yard line. A crucial sack on thirdand-three to take the

Tigers out of field goal range and force a punt.

Punishing tackles to remind would-be Tallassee receivers that there would be consequences for routes ran over the middle.

Another sack, another stuffed run, play after play, lead change after lead change.

The Hornet’s offense came to play on Senior Night as well, hanging 26 points on

a Tallassee team that had previously allowed only 19 points per game. Quarterbacks Q. Seroyer and Sam Harris combined to go 17of-26 passing for 230 yards, Isaiah McKissic hauled in 10 catches for 143 yards and two touchdowns and running back Ashton Moss shredded the Tiger defense for 91 yards See Hornets, page B4

pelika O Observer

B2 October 31, 2018

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.

Beulah Player of the Week Junior linebacker and running back Chris Person was named the Beulah Player of the Week. In Beulah's 29-24 victory over Pike Road Friday night, he rushed 23 times for 233 yards and two touchdowns.

Defensive back Ty Davis was named the Opelika Player of the Week. In Friday’s 23-22 overtime victory v. Vigor, Davis finished with five tackles and a crucial stop of a Wolves’ two-point conversion attempt.

IT’S THE OPELIKA WAY.

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

Player of the Week brought to you by

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1804 Thomason Dr. Opelika , AL. 36801

Senior linebacker and running back Kyran Hall was named the Smiths Station Player of the Week. Hall turned in a strong showing during Friday’s 23-18 loss to Prattville.

Beauregard Player of the Week Senior wide receiver Isaiah McKissic was named the Beauregard Player of the Week. In Friday’s 26-21 win over Tallassee, McKissic hauled in 10 receptions for 143 yards and two touchdowns.

pelika O Observer Opelika,

from B1

at the Wolves 5-yard line.

Blackmon found Jamius Mitchell in the end zone for 5-yard TD pass. Baker Rostin added the PAT, giving Opelika a 10-point lead at intermission.

The Bulldogs attempted a 43-yard field goal early in the third quarter.

Vigor defenders rushed through, blocking the kick and returning it 43 yards for a touchdown.

The Wolves’ two-point conversion attempt was successful, making the score 16-14 with 8:50 seconds left in the game.

Vigor backed Opelika to its own 4-yard line.

They tied the game after tackling running back Brantan Barnett the end zone for a safety with five minutes left.

Neither team could score, forcing overtime.

Opelika started overtime on offense after losing the coin toss.

Opelika moved the ball to the three-yard line after one play. On second down, Barnett scored a TD. Rowton added the PAT to extend their lead to seven, 23-16.

Vigor answered with a TD on their possession.

Artel Howell caught a 5-yard Pass from Walker.

Down one without a consistent kicker, Vigor chose to go for the twopoint play.

Opelika’s defense stuffed the attempted sweep, preserving the win for Opelika.

Opelika ends the regular on a four-game win streak with an open week before hosting a first round playoff game Nov. 9.

Through nine games, Opelika is averaging 136 passing yards and 198 passing yards per game and has scored 31 touchdowns. The defense has 19 quarterback sacks and three interceptions.

Quarterback Cade Blackmon has completed 97 passes on 158 attempts for 1,070 yards. Brantan Barnett has 138 rushing attempts for 1,057 yards.

Receivers Omar Holloway and Jamius Mitchell have more than 300 yards each for the season.

Jalen Stinson leads the team with 47 tackles. Malachi Tatum has 38 tackles, Tae Demunn 37 tackles and Jaquan Foote with 36 tackles.

Marshall Meyers, Baker Rowton and Stinson have handled the kicking duties.

Meyers, in his first

year of playing football, has been a welcome surprise, making three field goals in the last three games.

Rowland handles the extra points and Stinson is averaging 38 yards a punt.

I️t appears that Opelika will face St Paul’s in the first round of the AHSAA 6A state football playoffs.

St Paul’s is a private member school of the AHSAA. St Paul’s won the 5A State Championship last year in Tuscaloosa.

The new AHSAA competing balance factor, a rule passed this summer, moved St Paul’s up a classification after winning the title.

Coach Steve Mask, in his seventh season, has compiled a 78-16 record including two state championships.

The Saints end their region schedule Friday night against Robertsdale.

More on the Opelika playoff game to come next week.

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

Bobcats,

from B1

designed running plays.

Milking the first sixplus minutes of the first quarter, the Patriots managed to drive inside the Bobcats red zone before turning the ball over on downs at the Beulah 16yard line.

Balanced carries between the phenom running duo of Chris Person and Caden Dowdell helped the Bobcats on their first drive, which Lonzie Portis later capped off with a dazzling 18-yard TD. Austin Billingsley’s extra-point try was no good.

Fifty-seven seconds later, Pike Road’s Curtis Carter took an end around through the teeth of the Beulah defense, sprinting 70 yards for the score and a 7-6 lead.

A bad snap by Beulah set up Pike Road with prime field position in its own territory. Two plays later, Paymon visited the endzone to boost his team’s lead to eight, 14-6.

Powerful running from Person and an eventual 24-yard score cut the deficit to two points, and Kaleb Abney connected with Justin Hancock on a two-point conversion attempt from the swinging gate formation to tie the game.

The Patriots added two more scores, another Carter score and Paymon field goal, to take a 24-14 lead into halftime.

Portis sustained hopes of a Beulah comeback with a scintillating 37-

B3 October 31, 2018 yard TD run, reinspiring the Bobcats faithful and trimming the Patriot lead to six with 10:32 left in the fourth quarter.

Several Pike Road drives were stymied by the Beulah defense, which was led by Dowdell and Hancock, who dominated from their respective linebacker positions.

Another low snap was mishandled by Portis, but Dowdell picked up the loose football and rambled 40 yards to set up the Bobcats with prime field position. Two plays later, Person scored his second TD and gamewinning score to give Beulah a 27-24 lead with 8:03 left to play.

More great defensive play by the Bobcats forced the Patriots to punt, but a high snap over punter Carson Fike’s head rolled out of the left-hand side of the endzone for a safety and a 29-24 Beulah lead.

With fewer than three minutes to go, Beulah’s offense attempted a drive to run out the clock, but fumbled and gave the ball back to the hopeful Patriots. Two huge tackles by Hancock forced the Patriots into a 4th-and-13. A desperation from Paymon to the endzone was intercepted

by Dylan Coleman to seize the victory.

Offensively, Beulah finished with 395 total yards, with 375 coming on the ground. Person accounted for 233 yards on 33 touches and two scores, and Dowdell, Portis and Quay Moreland combined to rush 26 times for 142 yards and

two TDs. Dowdell and Hancock were the heart and soul of the Beulah defense, finishing with 13 and 12 tackles each, respectively. Quin Page and Isaiah Glidewell notched five tackles each.

Glidewell punted twice, maintaining a 30 yards-per-punt average, while Billingsley finished 1-of-3 on extra points.

With the win, the Bobcats move to 7-2 overall, 5-2 in region play. They travel to non-region opponent McKenzie next Friday, who is 1-8 on the season.

Beyond a winning record and playoff berth is the growing sense of community pride for the Beulah football program, a sign that Flournoy said shows that his program is on the right track.

“I’ve been a part of good programs where they expected us to win and over here at Beulah, the community has always been behind us, but the expectations were low. And now that we’re winning, everybody’s behind us, everybody’s showing up,” Flournoy said. “It’s really an electric atmosphere around here and everybody’s having a lot of fun. The guys are doing what we ask them to do, and we’re seeing their hard work pay off.”

Playoff matchups for Beulah and all other area schools will be decided after next Friday’s remaining contests. Kickoff against McKenzie is set for 7 p.m. The school is located at 221 Garland Road.

Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer

Hornets,

from B1

and a touchdown on 10 carries.

On fourth down with 11 with seconds to go in the game, Tallassee had one more shot to win. Trips right, max protect, all go as the hail mary spiraled through the air while receivers and defenders jockeyed for position under it.

As the ball descended carrying the fate of the game with it, one pair of hands rose above the rest – a leaping six-foot, three-inch Isaiah McKissic. Fittingly so, the final catch of the night would be an interception to end the Tigers chances and preserved the win 26-21.

Led by the 20 seniors honored pregame, the Hornets rallied to win five of their last six games of the season to finish with a 5-4 (4-2) record, and completely

turn-around a season many thought had gotten away from them.

“After our third game I challenged our players to make the needed changes to win” said Coach Rob Carter, “and they responded, I love these guys, they never give up.”

Beauregard’s next game will be Nov. 9 at 7 p.m. C.S.T. as the Hornets will host a first round playoff game – opponent is still to be decided.

pelika O Observer Black Belt Community Foundation conducting ‘Throw & Go Contest’ B4

October 31, 2018

Special to the Opeliak Observer For the third year in a row, the Black Belt Community Foundation (BBCF) is conducting its “Throw & Go Contest” – an annual fundraiser created by the BBCF’s Associates to support the Black Belt Leadership Development Program, Young Men and Boys of Color Initiative, the Black Belt Believe and Achieve Education Initiative and the Community Grants Program.

A contest prize for participants is something well-sought after in the state of Alabama, a pair of tickets to the 2018 Iron Bowl (Alabama vs. Auburn football game) to be played at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa Nov. 24.

This pair was given by a donor to BBCF for

the specific purposes of this effort.

BBCF President Felecia Lucky states, ”One of the few things that can compete with Alabama’s love of football is its spirit of giving and helping neighbors. We are excited to launch this successful campaign for the third year in a row. Putting our team spirit to work by investing resources back into our communities is helping to uplift and transform the Black Belt for a bright future,” said BBCF President Felecia Lucky.

How to participate?

Potential participants will be asked to give a $5.00 donation for a ticket which creates an entry for them into the prize drawing. All the tickets will be placed in a container, and one of BBCF’s Board of Directors will be

randomly selected to pull one ticket from the container Nov. 16. The name that is pulled out will be the individual selected to participate in the Black Belt Community Foundation “Throw & Go Contest.” This drawing will be captured by video and shared to the media and public via social media for transparency.

The BBCF Community Associate Program Officer or BBCF President will contact the contestant Nov. 16 immediately followPhoto special to the Opelika Observer ing the drawing. The “LaSonja Richardson, the 2017 Throw & Go contest winner, poses with Community Associate her family and BBCF President Felecia Lucky (far left) as she wins the Program Officer will Iron Bowl tickets prize. schedule the “Throw the BBCF and “Throw for transparency and BBCF Staff Member. & Go Skills Contest” & Go” through www. documentation of the prior to the date of the The 12 yards are symintegrity of the contest. blackbeltfound.org bolic of the number Alabama and Auburn Join our Social For any questions reof counties that are in Football Game.

Media Community lated to Throw & Go, the Black Belt ComFor the “Throw & and follow “Throw & contact Christopher Go Skills Contest,” the munity Foundation’s Go” live updates at: Spencer at the BBCF service area. Again, contestant will have www.facebook.com/ office: 334-874-1126. three tries to complete the skills contest will BBCF2004/.

Find out more about be captured by video a 12- yard pass to a

Former Auburn University women’s golf coach to speak at Opelika Chamber’s Women’s Business Council Nov. 5 at Robert Trent Jones at Grand National Special to the Opelika Observer Former Women’s Golf Head Coach at Auburn University, Kim Evans, will be the featured speaker at the upcoming Women’s Business Council (WBC) Sports Presentation Series. This Opelika Chamber event will be held at the Robert Trent Jones at Grand National on Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Evans coached 21 years as the head coach of Auburn’s women’s golf team.

She is one of the most successful coaches in Auburn University athletics history, leading the program to eight Southeastern Conference championships,

Evans 20 consecutive NCAA Regional appearances, and seven top-10 finishes in 14 NCAA Championship appearances.

Even if you don’t play the game of golf, come and hear this amazing golfer and learn the basics of golf so you can communicate

with your family, friends and colleagues about the sport. This event includes lunch, the presentation, and a golf lesson if you so choose. Golf clubs will be provided for the lesson.

Visit www.opelikachamber.com to register or call 334-745-4861.

The WBC was formed to promote the participation and leadership of women at all levels in the workplace, the community and in government.

The scope of the WBC is to develop programs that provide opportunities for women to learn and network as well as share their expertise with each other and to address the unique issues of women in business.

Panthers,

from B1

sessions.

With 5:22 left in the fourth quarter, trailing 2110, Smiths Station running back L.C. Harris ignited the Panther faithful with a 40-yard run to paydirt.

Minton bowled over Prattville defenders to notch a two-point conversion and trim their opponent’s lead to three.

The Panther offense failed to capitalize on back-to-back stops by its defense, as the second drive was ended on a snap over Minton’s head that rolled out of the endzone for a safety with 35 seconds left to play.

Prattville recovered a Smiths Station attempted onside kick to end both the game and Panther’s postseason hopes to win 23-18.

Despite a sluggish firsthalf performance, the Panthers managed to generate 265 yards of total offense,

with 206 of that total coming on the ground.

Harris led in the rushing department with 19 carries for 120 yards and a score.

Minton was efficient, completing 9-of-16 passes for 59 yards and a TD. Under first-year Coach Mike Glisson, the Panthers have managed to find success again on the gridiron.

With five wins already this season, he exceeds the combined win total of two wins during the last two seasons.

Statistically, the Panthers have improved on both sides of the ball from last year. The offense is up from 3.7 points per game in 2017 to 16.1 in 2018. Smiths Station’s defense is the greatest turnaround, decreasing from 44.7 points per game allowed in 2017 to 20 in 2018.

With the loss, the Panthers fall to 5-4 overall, 2-4 in region play. They travel to Tiger Stadium next Friday in a non-region matchup v.

Eufaula, who also sports a 5-4 overall record.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

C.S.T.

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Volunteer!

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334-528-5923 • www.eamc.org

Contact: Victoria Beasley

Volunteer Coordinator Victoria.Beasley@eamc.org

pelika O Observer

B5 October 31, 2018

Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer Opelika defeated 23-22 Vigor in overtime last Friday night at Bulldog Stadium. Senior running back Brantan Barnett scored the game-winning touchdown on the Bulldog’s overtime possession. The Wolves would score a TD of their own, but failed to convert a two-point conversion, sealing the loss.

With the win, the Bulldogs improved to 5-4 overall and will host a first-round playoff game Nov. 9.

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B6 October 31, 2018

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pelika O Observer

pelika O Observer

B7 October 31, 2018

COMICS

“Sometimes crying or laughing are the only options left, and laughing feels better right now.” ― Veronica Roth, Divergent

Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, October 31, 2018

McGee, Wood vie for Ala. House District 38 McGee

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor

Inside the Statehouse

By Steve Flowers

T

his time two years ago, I was bubbling over with anticipation with expectations that I would have two years of fun following an exciting governor’s race. Well, Ole Robert Bentley spoiled my parade.

Back in the old days, governors could not succeed themselves.

They were governor for one four- year term and then you were out.

That means we had a governor’s race every four years and man

would they be doozies.

We would have 10 candidates, about half of them would be “run for the fun of it” candidates. The most colorful would be Shorty Price.

However, there would be 3 to 4 viable candidates. These handful of bigtime candidates would fight it out for a place in the runoff. It would be for a place in the Democratic runoff.

In bygone days the Democratic Primary nomination was tanta-

mount to election.

Today, it is just the other way around.

Nowadays winning the Republican Primary is tantamount to election in the good ole Heart of Dixie. The more things change the more they stay the same in Alabama politics. Boy, when we change, we really change. We were a one-party state then and we are a one-party state now.

When Kay Ivey won See Flowers, page B11

Nov. 1 last day to apply for absentee ballot Special to the Opelika Observer

The deadline to make application for an absentee ballot is Nov. 1.

As required in the Code of Alabama 1975, all applications must be delivered to the county’s Absentee

Election Manager by Nov. 1.

Voters can make application in person if they prefer and gain access to an absentee ballot that same day. If submitting an application by mail, voters can download and complete the form at alabamavotes.gov.

Subsequently, absentee ballots must be postmarked or hand delivered by Nov. 5 to the Absentee Election Manager’s office in each county. A link to those county offices can be found at sos. alabama.gov/citycounty-lookup/counties.

Helping end corruption in Alabama politics and pushing for Medicaid expansion are major platforms for Valley resident Brian McGee, the Democratic nominee for Alabama House District 38.

This is McGee’s second run for political office. Last year, he ran to fill the vacant U.S. Senate seat once held by Attorney General Jeff Sessions, but later dropped out and endorsed the race’s eventual winner Doug Jones.

“.. .that (run) was done with the hopes of learning about Alabama politics rather than really expecting to get elected. I learned a lot about politics and what I learned has made me very worried about the future of our state and our country,” McGee

said.

McGee faced no Democratic opposition in the District 38 primary, and will face Republican nominee Debbie Wood in the Nov. 6 midterm elections.

Following is a brief background on McGee and overview of his beliefs and platforms that will guide him if elected.

Background Born into a military family, McGee said he “traveled the world” during his childhood.

At 19 years old, he enlisted in the U.S. Army See McGee, page C3

Wood

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Increased career opportunities and improved infrastructure throughout District 38 are just a few of the goals of Chambers County native and House District 83 Republican nominee Debbie Wood.

From 2002-2018, Wood served as a member of the Chambers County Commission before declaring her bid for the open District 38 seat.

She survived the closest election in the state this election season, defeating Republican opponent Todd Rauch by seven total votes in a provisional ballot count ceremony July 24 to verify runoff results.

Following is a brief background on Wood

and overview of her beliefs and platforms if elected.

Background Born in Chambers County, Wood and her family relocated for her father’s construction career to Stewart, which is located near Miami, Florida.

Several years later, her family returned to the area so her father could open his own construction business.

She attended Beulah

High School, starting the school’s first flag corps, and graduated as the school’s salutatorian for the class of 1984.

Wood pursued a career in real estate, and now owns her own agency through Century 21, which is based in Valley.

After the retirement of longtime District 38 Rep. DuWayne Bridges, Wood said she contemplated a run but knew the time was not right.

Isaac Whorton went on to hold the seat for a term and is now running for a seat in the 5th Judicial Circuit.

Initially, District 38 was a three-horse race on the Republican side, with Rauch, Wood and Bryan Murphy all vying for the nomination.

Not receiving a 50-plus See Wood, page C3

Vote for

Richard LaGrand Sr. on Nov. 6 Lee County Commission District 5 Paid for by Friends to Elect Richard LaGrand Sr. - 2900 Watson St. Opelika, AL 36801

A labama Politics

C2 October 31, 2018

Amendment 4 would save Alabama taxpayers millions Special to the Opelika Observer The Alabama Public Policy Foundation (APPF) is educating voters about Amendment 4 on the Nov. 6 general election ballot.

Rosemary Elebash, an APPF board member and state director of the National Federation of Independent Business, said the amendment would save Alabama taxpayers millions of dollars by eliminating costly special elections when a regularly scheduled election is imminent.

“Under current law, the governor must call a special election to fill legislative seats vacated due to death or resignation, even if there are only a few months remaining in the term,” Elebash said. “Each legislative special elec-

tion costs from $90,000 to $900,000 per county, based on the number of voters and polling locations. These sometimes occur when candidates already have qualified for the next general election or when the Legislature is not scheduled to meet again before the end of the term,” Elebash said.

APPF noted money spent on late-term special elections could be used for other services important to Alabama taxpayers. In addition to the cost, Elebash said back-to-back balloting can create confusion for voters.

“In recent years, we’ve seen candidates win special elections and immediately begin campaigning for a regular primary election a month or two later,” Elebash added.

Amendment 4 would allow Alabama Senate and House of Representatives seats to remain open if vacated on or after Oct. 1 of the third year of a fouryear term. The longest a seat would remain vacant would be 14 months. The amendment only applies to legislative seats. The governor would still be required to schedule special elections for vacancies occurring earlier in a term.

Amendment 4 is one of four statewide amendments on the Nov. 6 general election ballot. For more information, visit sos.alabama.gov.

APPF is a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization created to promote educational, social, financial and economic policies to enhance the well-being of Alabama citizens.

pelika Observer O

Mallory Hagan endorsed by ‘Women Under Forty’ PAC Special to the Opelika Observer Mallory Hagan, Candidate for US Congressional District 3, was endorsed recently by the “Women Under 40 PAC” made up of women who support women under forty to increase diversity and representation of women in Congress.

“I am proud to have the endorsement of Women Under Forty and be apart of the thousands of young women running for office this year to have an equal voice in Congress and shifting public policy. The nonpartisan organization is dedicated to helping increase gender equality in the decision making bodies of government and

I am proud to be apart of such a movement to increase diversity and female equality in Congress,” Hagan said.

“This year is the year of the woman and it is essential that we increase our presence in government on Nov. 6.

I will continue to support fellow female candidates and work to expand on the idea to young women around the country that they deserve, just as much as anyone else, a seat at America’s decision making tables.”

“WUFPAC is proud to endorse Mallory for Congress," said WUFPAC President Atalie Ebersole. “Now more than ever it is critical that women have an equal voice in

shaping public policy and electing talented leaders like Mallory will help accomplish this goal.”

WUFPAC is a non-partisan political action committee that supports women forty years of age and under running for public office. The mission of WUFPAC is to “help elect more young women to elected office so that young women have an equal voice in shaping public policy and increasing seniority of women in Congress by electing women at a younger age.”

The PAC was organized in 1999 by a group of young women representing diverse political and geographical backgrounds.

Randy Price announces local, statewide endorsements Special to the Opelika Observer Randy Price, Republican nominee for Alabama Senate District 13, which includes parts of Lee County as well as all of Chambers, Clay, Cleburne and

Randolph counties.

Following is a list of his endorsements: - Alabama Retail Association - Alabama Realtors Association - Business Council of Alabama - National Federation

of Independent Business - Alabama Home Builder’s Association - Alabama Citizens for Life - Alabama Retired State Employees’ Assocation - Alabama Education

T O V

Association -Alabama Farmer’s Federation - Alabama Forestry Association - Alabama Trucker’s Association - Alabama Physical Therapy Association.

“It is humbling and

energizing to receive support from such a wide spectrum of local organizations that know how to move forward in East Alabama and every community statewide,” Price said. “I look forward to working with them as well as our

local leaders and small businesses to grow jobs, fix our roads and cut taxes for hardworking middle-class families.”

For more information on Price and his campaign, visit www. randypriceforsenate. com.

E FO R

DEBBIE WOOD NOVEMBER 6 TH

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 38

• 100% Pro-Life • Defender of our Gun Rights • Job Creation Expert debbiewoodstaterepresentative.com PA I D F O R B Y T H E C A M PA I G N T O E L E C T D E B B I E W O O D

pelika Observer O McGee,

from C1 and went to Officer Candidate School, Ranger and Jungle Warfare schools before his deployment to Vietnam.

A member of the 173rd Airborne Brigade and commanding the 39th Scout Dogs, McGee started as a private, but rose up to the rank of captain following four years of active duty.

Post-military, McGee pursued a career in teaching, working with the Department of Defense school system for 27 years.

He instructed at Fort Benning and abroad in Bahrain, England, Japan and Panama.

McGee and his wife Jacqueline have been married for 48 years, and have two children. He currently resides in Valley.

Platforms Running for office in a state known for high-profile cases of corruption and white-collar crimes, McGee said he wants to help clean up Alabama’s tarnished political image and work to “get money out of politics,” ensuring that elected representatives travel

Flowers,

from C1

the GOP mantle back in June, she essentially won the governor’s race. By the way, she won her Republican Primary impressively, 56 to 44. Ironically, she is poised to win the general election by about the same margin. She will win next Tuesday because she is the Republican nominee.

When Bentley left office early in disgrace, that allowed Ivey to ascend from Lt. Governor to Governor. She was wise and politically savvy enough to not rock the boat.

She has surrounded herself with good people and has run an excellent campaign. As the quasi incumbent she has been able to look very gubernatorial.

Her mature, grandmotherly appearance and demeanor have actually been an asset rather than a deterrent. Most folks who vote are older and look a lot like Ivey.

Ivey has done an exemplary job of not saying anything about pertinent issues or debating. Her handlers knew how to take advantage of incumbency and show her cutting ribbons and kissing babies. Ivey has been around awhile. She

to Montgomery to serve in the best interests of their constituents.

“I am sick and tired of the corruption I have seen in Montgomery. Politicians seem to be bought and paid for in Alabama, and they then vote the way the lobbyists tell them to vote,” McGee said.

“I have a history of service to country and community and when elected you will be hearing a lot from me. I do not plan to stand for the status quo in Montgomery.”

If elected, McGee will lobby for Gov. Kay Ivey to sign Medicaid expansion, which he said will help create 30,000plus jobs and bring $21 billion of federal money to Alabama. “ My opponent and her party are on record for doing away with the Affordable Care Act and protections for folks with pre-existing conditions. They are also in favor of cutting Social Security benefits and programs like CHIP in order to pay for the $2 trillion tax cut they gave to the wealthy,” McGee said. “This is a no brainer, and shouldn’t be a partisan issue.”

McGee also stands cut her political teeth campaigning for the Wallace’s, George and Lurleen. Her subtle message was, “I’m the conservative female Republican candidate.” In the primary, she ran on a platform of saving the Confederate monuments. In the fall, she ran an ad with school children and of course, contrary to the demographics of today’s Alabama classroom, all the school children were little white girls. The Wallace’s would have been proud of Kay. Walt Maddox, the dynamic Democratic nominee for governor, is the best candidate that the Democrats have fielded in more than two decades. He is bright, articulate, energetic, and well qualified having served as Mayor of Tuscaloosa for more than 10 years. He has run an excellent campaign. He has raised good money, primarily from grassroot Alabamians.

However, he is a real card-carrying Democrat. If the polls had shown he was closing in, Ivey’s folks would have played the ace of all race cards.

Maddox supported and voted for Barack Obama. Ivey will beat Maddox because she is the Republican nominee and he is the Democratic nominee.

The two rising

A labama Politics for finding an immediate solution to the ongoing opioid crisis and improving the quality of Alabama’s educational system to benefit both teachers and students.

As an elected representative, McGee said he would be a candid, hard-working and resonating voice for constituents in District 38.

“If you want to see someone willing to speak out on issues and represent the people, you need to vote for me. I am a centrist Democrat who is pro 2nd Amendment but one that believes no secure gun ever hurt a child,” McGee said. I am opposed to abortion but support separation of church and state. Four generations of McGees have fought for this country, serving in WWI, WWII, Vietnam, and the war on terrorism. I believe in service to state and country. Every McGee I mentioned enlisted to help protect this country, and I will fight against all of the forces that we see today trying to tear this country apart.”

For more information on McGee and his campaign, visit www.brianjmcgee. com. political stars in the state, John Merrill and Will Ainsworth will win their races for Secretary of State and Lt. Governor, overwhelmingly.

They will be vying to see which one is the top vote getter on the ballot.

These two may also be vying to be the Republican to take out Doug Jones in 2020. Whoever is the Republican nominee will beat our anomaly Democratic Senator. Mr. Jones sealed his fate by gleefully voting against Brett Kavanaugh’s confirmation. We have essentially ceded our second seat in the Senate to California.

Doug Jones and Dianne Feinstein are in the same boat philosophically and with their voting.

There may be one Democratic surprise next week. Longtime conservative Democratic lawmaker, Johnny Mack Morrow, may pull off an upset victory over a Republican incumbent in a northwest Alabama State Senate race.

Y’all vote Tuesday.

See you next week.

Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist.

His weekly paper appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers.

He served 16-years in the state legislature.

Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers. us.

Wood,

from C1 percent majority, Wood and Rauch were forced into what would later be regarded as a historic runoff election.

Platforms Creating lasting, viable jobs is Woods’ top priority for her constituents. Through improving infrastructure and providing the area’s youth with expanded access to vocational training, she said she believes this will help to solve a major problem within District 38, and in particular, Chambers County.

“A job is capable of giving someone hope, and not only good for the community, but the person. If you’re able to pay your mortgage or your rent, make your car payment and take your kid to McDonald’s, you just feel good about yourself,” Wood said. “And for our kids, it’s not necessarily about how much money they can make, but helping them find what their passion is. Some are more equipped to work with their hands, others with their head. But, we have to make sure that there opportunities through the industries we draw here to find a way to help them want to stay here.”

Improving infrastructure is another important issue for Woods. During

C3 October 31, 2018

her time as a member of the Chambers County commission, she said she helped lead and plan the repaving of some of the area’s worst-kept bridges and roads.

“If we’re going to grow and be a new hub for industries, promoting all kinds of things to happen in the state of Alabama, we have to have good roads and good bridges and they have to be safe.

We have to have a good route of transportation and that is not something that we’ve been focused on,” Wood said.

Wood also wants make improvements to the education system through the hiring of teachers and addition of virtual classroom technologies to address the problematic student-

to-teacher ratios in some of the area schools.

For those still deciding between Wood and her Democratic opponent Brian McGee, she said voters can count on her love for the district that she has called home for most of her life to prevalent in every decision she makes in Montgomery.

“If you’re looking for a candidate that loves our community, that believes Alabama is the best place to live, that believes that we need to do everything we can to educate our children but keep them home, then you need to vote for me,” Wood said.

For more information on Wood and her campaign, visit www.debbiewoodstaterepresentative.com.

NOVEMBER 6 Vote to protect Social Security.

Learn more and pledge to vote at aarp.org/vote

Paid For by AARP

A labama Politics

C4 October 31, 2018

pelika Observer O

Office of Governor Office of Lt. Gov.

Ivey - R

Ainsworth - R

Boyd - D

Maddox - D

State Treasurer

McMillan - R

Attorney General Secretary of State

Siegelman - D

Marshall - R

Merrill - R

Stewart- R #1

Vance Jr. - D

Minor - R #1

Mitchell - R #4

State Civil Appeals Judge Seats 1, 2 & 3

Edwards - R #1

Hanson - R #2

U.S. State Rep. District 3

Hagan - D

Rogers - R

Bryan - R #2

Sellers - R #3

State Criminal Appeals Judge Seats 1, 2 & 3

Associate Justice Ala. Supreme Court Seat 4

Smalley - D #4

Zeigler - R

Joseph - D

Associate Justice AL Supreme Court Seats 1,2 & 3

Chief Justice - Ala. Supreme Court

Parker - R

Milam - D

State Auditor

McCool- R #2

Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries

Pate - R

Moore - R #3

State Senator District 13

Price - R

Cole - R #3

Turner - D

State Senator District 27

Bendinger -D

Whatley - R

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A labama Politics

State Rep. District 38

McGee - D

October 31, 2018

State Rep. District 80

State Rep. District 79

Wood - R

Kling - D

Davis - D

Blackshear - R

Lovvorn - R

State Rep. District 83

State Rep. District 82

Warren - D

Gray - D

State Board of Education

West - R

C5

Holden -R

Dist. Court Judge Lee County Place #2

Jortner -D

Bush - R #2

Public Service Commission Place 1 & 2

Oden - R #1

McClure - D #1

Powell - D #2

Beeker - R #2

Lee County Board of Education Districts 4, 5, 6 & 7

Keel - R #4

Henderson - R #5

Jenkins - R #6

Patterson -D #6

Roberson -R #7

Stringer -D #7

Circuit Clerk

Lee Co. Probate

Lee Co. Sheriff

Lee Co. Coroner

Roberson - R

English - R

Jones - R

Harris - R

C6 October 31, 2018

A labama Politics

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Continued from D5

Lee Co. Commissioner District 5

LaGrand Sr. - D

Lee Co. Commissioner District 2

Lawrence - R

Lee Co. Commissioner District 4

Ham - R

BALLOT STATEMENT FOR STATEWIDE AMENDMENT #2

(1) The text of the statewide ballot measure, including sponsors, cosponsors, and the text of the question that will appear on the statewide ballot: Proposed by: Act 2017-188 (House Bill 98 of the 2017 Regular Legislative Session) Bill Sponsor: Representative Fridy Cosponsors: None “Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, as amended; to declare and otherwise afrm that it is the public policy of this state to recognize and support the sanctity of unborn life and the rights of unborn children, most importantly the right to life in all manners and measures appropriate and lawful; and to provide that the constitution of this state does not protect the right to abortion or require the funding of abortion.

Proposed by Act 2017-188.

This description shall be followed by the following language: Yes ( ) No ( )” (2) A summary of and the text of any implementing legislation directly related to the statewide ballot measure: There is no implementing legislation for this statewide ballot measure.

(3) The placement of the statewide ballot measure on the statewide ballot: This proposed Constitutional Amendment will appear on the Ballot after election of statewide and local ofces and will be the second constitutional amendment for voter consideration. The proposed Constitutional Amendment will be listed as “Statewide Amendment 2”.

(4) A plain language summary of the statewide ballot measure, which shall include, at a minimum, the legal or constitutional authority for its passage, the effect of the statewide ballot measure if it is passed, including its cost and source of funding, and the effect of the statewide ballot measure if it is defeated.

Under current law, the state constitution does not include any language that directly relates to the importance of unborn life or the rights of unborn children, nor does it include any language that directly relates to abortion or the funding of abortions using state funds.

Amendment 2 provides that it would be the public policy of the state to recognize and support the importance of unborn life and the rights of unborn children, including the right to life; and to protect the rights of unborn children. Additionally, the amendment would make clear that the state constitution does not include a right to abortion or require the funding of an abortion using public funds.

The proposed amendment does not identify any specic actions or activities as unlawful. It expresses a public policy that supports broad protections for the rights of unborn children as long as the protections are lawful.

If a majority of voters vote “Yes” on Amendment 2, the public policy of this state will be to support and protect the importance of unborn life and the rights of unborn children. The state constitution would also not include a right to an abortion or to the funding of an abortion using public funds.

If a majority of voters vote “No” on Amendment 2, there would be no language in the state constitution related to the importance of unborn life or protecting the rights of unborn children, or to abortion or the funding of abortions using public funds.

There is no cost for Amendment 2.

The Constitutional authority for passage of Amendment 2 is set forth in Sections 284, 285 and 287 of the State Constitution. These sections outline the way a constitutional amendment may be put to the people of the State for a vote.

BALLOT STATEMENT FOR STATEWIDE AMENDMENT #1

(1) The text of the statewide ballot measure, including sponsors, cosponsors, and the text of the question that will appear on the statewide ballot: Proposed by: Act 2018-389 (Senate Bill 181 of the 2018 Regular Legislative Session) Bill Sponsor: Senator Dial Cosponsors: None “Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, providing for certain religious rights and liberties; authorizing the display of the Ten Commandments on state property and property owned or administrated by a public school or public body; and prohibiting the expenditure of public funds in defense of the constitutionality of this amendment.

Proposed by Act 2018-389.

This description shall be followed by the following language: Yes ( ) No ( )” (2) A summary of and the text of any implementing legislation directly related to the statewide ballot measure: There is no implementing legislation for this statewide ballot measure.

(3) The placement of the statewide ballot measure on the statewide ballot: This proposed Constitutional Amendment will appear on the Ballot after election of statewide and local ofces and will be the rst constitutional amendment for voter consideration. The proposed Constitutional Amendment will be listed as “Statewide Amendment 1”.

(4) A plain language summary of the statewide ballot measure, which shall include, at a minimum, the legal or constitutional authority for its passage, the effect of the statewide ballot measure if it is passed, including its cost and source of funding, and the effect of the statewide ballot measure if it is defeated.

Under current law, the state constitution contains no language related to the display of the Ten Commandments.

Amendment 1 does two things. First, it provides that a person is free to worship God as he or she chooses, and that a person’s religious beliefs will have no effect on his or her civil or political rights. Second, it makes clear that the Ten Commandments may be displayed on public property so long as the display meets constitutional requirements, such as being displayed along with historical or educational items. Amendment 1 also provides that no public funds may be used to defend this amendment in court.

If a majority of voters vote “Yes” on Amendment 1, the state constitution will provide that a person is free to worship God as he or she chooses and that a person’s religious beliefs will have no effect on his or her civil or political rights. It will also provide that the Ten Commandments can be displayed on public property so long as the display meets constitutional requirements, such as being displayed along with historical or educational items.

If a majority of voters vote “No” on Amendment 1, no language related to the display of the Ten Commandments would be included in the state constitution.

There is no cost for Amendment 1. No public funds may be used to defend this amendment in court.

The Constitutional authority for passage of Amendment 1 is set forth in Sections 284, 285 and 287 of the State Constitution. These sections outline the way a constitutional amendment may be put to the people of the State for a vote.

(1) The text of the statewide ballot measure, including sponsors, cosponsors, and the text of the question that will appear on the statewide ballot: Proposed by: Act 2018-132 (Senate Bill 194 of the 2018 Regular Legislative Session) Bill Sponsor: Senator Greg Reed Cosponsors: Senators Waggoner and Allen “Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, relating to the Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama, to specify that the congressional districts from which members are appointed continue to reect those as constituted on January 1, 2018, to remove the State Superintendent of Education from membership, and to delete the requirement that members vacate ofce at the annual meeting of the board following their seventieth birthday.

Proposed by Act 2018-132.

This description shall be followed by the following language: Yes ( ) No ( )” (2) A summary of and the text of any implementing legislation directly related to the statewide ballot measure: There is no implementing legislation for this statewide ballot measure.

(3) The placement of the statewide ballot measure on the statewide ballot: This proposed Constitutional Amendment will appear on the Ballot after election of statewide and local ofces and will be the third constitutional amendment for voter consideration. The proposed Constitutional Amendment will be listed as “Statewide Amendment 3”.

(4) A plain language summary of the statewide ballot measure, which shall include, at a minimum, the legal or constitutional authority for its passage, the effect of the statewide ballot measure if it is passed, including its cost and source of funding, and the effect of the statewide ballot measure if it is defeated.

Under current law, the University of Alabama Board of Trustees is composed of 16 people: three members from the congressional district in which the Tuscaloosa campus is located, two members from each of the other six congressional districts in the state, the Governor, and the State Superintendent of Education. So, if the number of congressional districts in Alabama increased or decreased in the future, the number of trustees would also increase or decrease. Additionally, other than the Governor and the State Superintendent of Education, current law requires a trustee to retire from the board following his or her seventieth birthday.

Amendment 3 does three things. First, it provides that the board will be composed of members from congressional districts as those districts existed on January 1, 2018, meaning any future changes to the number of congressional districts in Alabama would not impact the number of board members. Second, it removes the State Superintendent of Education from automatically having a seat on the board. Third, it allows a trustee to serve after his or her seventieth birthday.

If a majority of voters vote “Yes” on Amendment 3, future changes to the number of congressional districts in Alabama will not impact the number of board members, the State Superintendent of Education will no longer automatically be a member of the board, and trustees will be allowed to serve on the board after their seventieth birthday.

If a majority of voters vote “No” on Amendment 3, future changes to the number of congressional districts in Alabama will impact the number of board members, the State Superintendent of Education will continue to automatically have a seat on the board, and trustees will not be allowed to serve on the board after their seventieth birthday.

There is no cost for Amendment 3.

The Constitutional authority for passage of Amendment 3 is set forth in Sections 284, 285 and 287 of the State Constitution. These sections outline the way a constitutional amendment may be put to the people of the State for a vote.

BALLOT STATEMENT FOR STATEWIDE AMENDMENT #3

(1) The text of the statewide ballot measure, including sponsors, cosponsors, and the text of the question that will appear on the statewide ballot: Proposed by: Act 2018-276 (Senate Bill 15 of the 2018 Regular Legislative Session) Bill Sponsor: Senator Glover Cosponsors: None “Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, to provide that, if a vacancy in either the House of Representatives or the Senate occurs on or after October 1 of the third year of a quadrennium, the seat would remain vacant until a successor is elected at the next succeeding general election.

Proposed by Act 2018-276.

This description shall be followed by the following language: Yes ( ) No ( )” (2) A summary of and the text of any implementing legislation directly related to the statewide ballot measure: There is no implementing legislation for this statewide ballot measure.

(3) The placement of the statewide ballot measure on the statewide ballot: This proposed Constitutional Amendment will appear on the Ballot after election of statewide and local ofces and will be the fourth constitutional amendment for voter consideration. The proposed Constitutional Amendment will be listed as “Statewide Amendment 4”.

(4) A plain language summary of the statewide ballot measure, which shall include, at a minimum, the legal or constitutional authority for its passage, the effect of the statewide ballot measure if it is passed, including its cost and source of funding, and the effect of the statewide ballot measure if it is defeated.

Under current law, members of the state legislature are elected to fouryear terms of ofce that begin and end on Election Day in November.

This four-year period is known as a quadrennium. When a person who was elected to serve in the state legislature is unable to complete his or her term, a vacancy is created. When this vacancy occurs, the Governor is required to schedule a special election. The winner of the special election lls the vacancy for the rest of the term.

Amendment 4 provides that when a vacancy occurs in the state legislature on or after October 1 of year three of the four-year term, the seat will remain vacant until the next general election, which occurs in November of the fourth year of the term. The Governor would no longer have the power to schedule a special election to ll a vacancy in these circumstances, and public funds that would have been spent on the special election would be saved.

If a majority of voters vote “Yes” on Amendment 4, state legislative seats that become vacant within the nal 14 months of the four-year term of ofce will remain vacant until the general election.

If a majority of voters vote “No” on Amendment 4, the Governor will continue to be required to schedule a special election whenever a vacancy occurs in the state legislature.

There is no cost for Amendment 4.

The Constitutional authority for passage of Amendment 4 is set forth in Sections 284, 285 and 287 of the State Constitution. These sections outline the way a constitutional amendment may be put to the people of the State for a vote.

BALLOT STATEMENT FOR STATEWIDE AMENDMENT #4

SA MPLE BALLOT

A labama Politics

C8 October 31, 2018

pelika Observer O

City of Opelika, CCOPS recognize four local law enforcement officers Thursday Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The City of Opelika and CCOPS held a ceremony last Thursday to honor four local law enforcement officers for their sacrifice and service. Pictured far left: Deputy Jeff Sauerwine, Lee County Sheriff’s Office; Trooper Christopher B. Williams of the State Troopers Office; Sgt. Reid Chambers, Auburn Police Department and Sgt. Craig Vickers, Opelika Police Department. Left, CCOPS founder Jack Gallasini addresses the audience at City Hall Thursday.

MUSIC

• ENTERTAINMENT • HONORING OUR VETS

CITY OF OPELIKA

VETERANS BREAKFAST & WWI ARMISTICE CELEBRATION

Saturday, November 10, 2018 VETERANS BREAKFAST • 8 - 9:45 a.m.

Niffers at the Tracks {917 S. Railroad Ave, Opelika} (Free to all Veterans and their families)

MAIN EVENT: VETERANS & WWI CELEBRATION • 10 a.m. • PUBLIC INVITED Courthouse Square {215 South 9th Street, Opelika} Speaker: Dr. Marty Olliff, “Armistice Day and Commemoration of the Great War” Live Entertainment: Opelika Ovations & New American Freedom Train Band

New American Freedom Train Band led by Army Veteran and Nashville recording artist Tim Maggart

Special Guest: Auburn University Southeastern Raptor Center, Golden Eagle “Aurea”

VETERANS RECEPTION • 11:30 a.m.

Museum of East Alabama {121 South 9th Street, Opelika} Military Displays & Refreshments

BRING A CHAIR OR BLANKET If it rains, the event will be moved to First Baptist Church {The 3:16 Center), 301 S. 8th Street.

For more information, call 334.705.5136.

www.opelika-al.gov

www.aotourism.com

pelika 1OYears O Observer in the making Wednesday, October 31, 2018

Vol. 11, No. 03

“By local people, for local people.”

Morgan Bryce named editor of Observer

Bryce

By Michelle Key Editor The Opelika Observer announced the promotion of Morgan Bryce to the position of Editor during their 10th anniversary celebration last night.

Bryce began his tenure with the Observer in May of 2016 as an intern from Auburn University. Bryce graduated from Auburn with a bachelor’s degree in journalism in June of that year.

Following graduation, Bryce married his sweetheart, Jessi Corser, and upon the return from his honeymoon, he started a full-time job with the Observer as a staff reporter. He and his wife live in Smiths Station.

He was promoted to associate editor in December 2017 when the Observer underwent ownership changes.

During the last 11 months, Bryce has been crucial to the continued develop-

ment of the Observer. He has shown great skill in managing the internship program, has spent countless hours expanding the sports and local government coverage.

“As the associate editor of the Observer, I am in a unique position to assist both in content production and the newspaper’s design, roles that I enjoy. My personal goal each week is to leave an indelible impression on our readers through each piece of content I produce and how it is presented,” Bryce said.

“Seeing someone sit down and read our paper is one of the most satisfying feelings in the world for me, and makes me feel that I am making a difference. I look forward to continuing to serve our community in my new role as editor. It is an See Staff, page D7

The Opelika Observer: 10 years in the making

By Michelle Key Editor In 2008, a group of Opelika business men and women realized that there was a need for a newspaper that would focus on the events and people of Opelika.

The original owners were: Stephen Benson Homer “Buddy” Bruce James Collins IV John Robert Dudley Dennis Hamlet Doug Horn Ronnie Justice Roger Justice Charles Lawler Roy McClure Flora Jane Rhodes

John Rice Henry Stern Leroy Stewart William Trant Charles Whatley Kay Wiley Fred Wood and William Young.

They formed a partnership and quickly started putting together the necessary components.

Timeline: 2008-2009 Jayson Hill was hired to be the first editor and was tasked with launching the first edition.

With an associate editor and some students from Auburn University, Hill published the first edition

on Oct. 30, 2008.

D. Mark Mitchell was hired to write a sports column named “On the Mark” and Ann Cipperly was asked to write a weekly food column which she named “Southern Hospitality.”

Cliff McCollum was hired as a stringer in Nov. 2009-2010 Lisa Salsman served as editor from November 2009 until early 2011.

McCollum continued as a columnist until January 2010 and then he took on the role of city reporter.

2011-2016 In early Fred Woods took on the responsibilities

as editor and McColloum was named News Editor.

Woods served diligently in this endeavor until his retirement in 2017. “The Observer filled a real need for local news for Opelikans and the surrounding communities,” Woods said. “It was satisfying to be a part of this and to inform newcomers to the area about our town’s history.”

Alison James was hired as an assistant to McCollum and Woods in 2013, and took on the role of associate editor upon McCollum’s departure to work in Baldwin County See Timeline, page D7

Observer’s first-ever editor Jayson Hill reflects on newspaper’s beginnings

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor In mid-September 2008, Opelika native Jayson Hill joined a cause to help launch a newspaper dedicated to local community news, a publication that later came to be known as the Opelika Observer.

With years of experience in public relations, Hill was asked

by Charles Whatley on behalf of the paper’s management team to become the newspaper’s first-ever editor.

In a span of six weeks, the Observer was

“It feels really good. When I look back, I can tell myself that I did one thing that is still going on today.”

Jayson Hill transformed from a concept into a tangible publication, with the first issue releasing Oct. 30, 2008.

“During that six weeks, I was busy buying equipment, software and everything that we needed to get started, along with negotiating the deals and finding a

printshop that met our needs. Basically, everything you have to do to get a new business, or newspaper in this case, started,” Hill said.

Along with assistant editor Tess Hollis, small sales team and assistance from several Auburn University students, Hill said the

Hill paper saw slow-butsure growth in spite of Opelika and the rest of the world being in the midst of the worldwide “Great Recesssion” in 2008 and 2009.

See Hill, page D2

2008: A look-back

By Vanessa Poulson For the Opelika Observer

2008 was a big year in the United States and across the globe. Not only was the internet rapidly beginning to take off and change the way people communicate, but new trends and themes that are still impacting the United States to this day were just beginning to come to fruition.

In honor of the Opelika Observer's 10th birthday, let’s take a look back at some of the other 2008 trends and historical events that also occurred a decade ago.

Barack Obama makes history

Illinois native and Sen. Barack Obama won the United States of America presidential race v. Republican John McCain to became the first-ever African American President of the United States.

The ‘Twilight” Saga hits movie theatres The Twilight saga brought to life Stephenie Meyer's fantasy romance novels in late 2008, as crazed fans became hypnotized by Robert Pattinson's and Kristen Stewart's portrayals of Edward and Bella.

Though the movie did not fare well with critics, it eventually scored four sequel movies to follow the original.

See Reflections, page D6

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D2 October 31, 2018

Letter from the editor: ‘Looking forward’

C

elebrating anniversaries, birthdays and other special dates is important. It is a time to look back, reflect on the positive things, contemplate the negative and look forward toward the future.

The Observer staff has spent a considerable amount of time during the past several weeks, months even, looking back, listening to some of the people that were involved in the creation of the ‘Opelika Observer’ 10 years ago.

I was not a part of that special group of people, but I sure have learned a lot from many of them. I have heard many stories, funny ones, serious ones, happy ones and sad ones. It is these events that have been written

Hill, from D1

With a small staff, Hill juggled the responsibilities of budgeting, building relationships in the community, cultivating sources, laying out the newspaper and seeking out newsworthy material.

down and preserved among the pages of the last 520 editions of the Observer that have led us to where we are today.

January 2018 marked a significant change for the men and women that had led the Observer since its inception.

Their decision to step away from the newspaper business was a decision that changed my life and my future.

It has been their unwavering support, friendship and guidance that has helped me bring the Observer to this significant anniversary date.

Ten years.

For many military men and women, 10 years signifies the halfway mark to military retirement. Schools often celebrate their high school days with

reunions every 10 years.

I started with the Observer four years ago as the office administrator. I had no idea what the future would hold for me, or just how important this local newspaper would come to mean to me. I have fallen in love with not only the Opelika Observer, but the people of Opelika and Lee County.

I cherish the opportunity to serve my neighbors, my friends.

I want to share in your moments both happy and sad, serious and funny. That is what local papers with a local focus do. They share in the lives of the people that they interact with on a regular basis.

As stated previously, we have spent a lot of time looking back

“We were always focused on whatever stories were local and thought would be of interest to our readers,” Hill said.

After a year with the Observer, Hill departed and several months later was hired to be the director of communications and marketing for Auburn University Libraries, where he remains today.

As the Observer celebrates its 10th anniversary, Hill said he is proud to see something he helped start still be in existence and serve a purpose in keeping the community informed.

“It feels really good.

When I look back, I can tell myself that I did one thing that is still going on today,” Hill said.

and that is important because we learn from looking back at history.

We continue to look back and learn. But, we are also looking forward toward the future.

Looking forward and making plans to ensure that the Observer remains a vital part of the lives of the community we call home.

All organizations go through growing pains, and changes never happen without a range of emotions. Change is hard. But, change is sometimes needed in order to grow and to thrive.

I am incredibly grateful for the individuals that laid the cornerstone, the foundation of the Observer. Without these individuals, the Observer would not even be in existence.

For nine years, they

too underwent various changes.

It has been my goal as the new editor, the owner, to continue to provide the quality services that they gave our community for so long.

Service to our community will continue to be my goal here at the Observer. Yes, we have changed, a little, but we still have a passion for the people of Opelika, but we also desire to serve our entire community which encompasses all of Lee County.

We will continue to change in small ways, to grow, to stay fresh in a market that many say is dying. We are striving to prove them wrong. Newspapers still have an important role in communities, especially small communities like ours.

Our focus will continue to be on local people, local businesses and local events. Our goal will continue to be to share the news and events that build up our community and our people.

I want you to know that we are here, we will be here to walk with you, through the good times and the bad times, through the sunshine and the storms. We celebrate weddings, babies and birthdays with you. We mourn your losses with you. We are excited to share your successes on the ball fields and in the boardrooms.

I’m looking forward to the future, and it is my hope that you, our readers, will look forward with me.

Michelle Key Editor/Owner

Opelika Observer THANK YOU FOR SERVING OUR COMMUNITY FOR

10 YEARS Mayor Gary Fuller

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D3 October 31, 2018

10 years later, Auburn University students, interns still partner with Opelika Observer

By Michelle Key Editor

One of the front page articles in the first edition of the Observer detailed how students from Auburn University were an inportant part in launching the paper. Ten

years later, the Observer still benefits from this relationship with the university.

In 2018, the Observer has had the privilege of working with six interns from Auburn, and one from Pennsylvania State University:

Spring Semester: Kendyll Hollingsworth and Lawton Vallely.

Summer Semester: Morgan Murphy, Anna Riley and SavannahVickers.

Fall Semester: Vanessa Poulson from Penn State and

Arnecia Walker.

Each of these students have shown great promise as journalists and writers.

All of these interns were under the tutelage of Associate Editor Morgan Bryce.

“Starting with the

Observer as an Auburn University (journalism) intern myself, I have a way of relating to them and helping them prepare for this experience. Besides getting to know them and work with them, I take a lot of satisfaction in seeing

them employ the knowledge I’ve passed on and put that to use in their writing,” Bryce said.

The first two columns below are reflections from Poulson and Walker on their interships with the Observer. Their interships ended last week.

Arnecia Walker: Learning the Vanessa Poulson: Internship provided ins and outs of journalism unique experiences, opportunities

I

started my internship with the Opelika Observer in August of this year. As a communication major with a minor in leadership studies, I was very excited to learn the ins and outs of journalism, but instead I gained so much more.

The Opelika Observer is ran by two full-time employees: Michelle Key, editor and Morgan Bryce, associate editor.

Some, me included, may think that publishing a paper is easy, because all you have to do is write, but I soon learned it takes much more than that.

Michelle and Morgan are dedicated to the Observer and the community. They maintain positive relationships with the entire community and are very passionate about their work.

It was an honor to learn from them. As I conclude my internship, I am walking away with a new perspective

2

By Arnecia Walker

and love for the city of Opelika, especially the downtown area.

I have made new friends and learned so much about the city that I did not know about. I am grateful that I was able to experience new things, enhance my writing skills and learn the process of maintaining a quality community paper.

Graduating from Auburn University in December is a bittersweet feeling, but knowing that I have built relationships with those behind the Opelika Observer makes me very happy, and I know that I will be able to apply my experience to my future endeavors.

018 has been a year of change for me. I moved all the way across the country, from Michigan to Alabama, and began working here at The Opelika Observer.

As a student at Penn State University and hailing from Florida originally, I had never really lived in the deep south before.

Though Florida is “technically” in the southern part of the United States, the experiences I have had in Florida and Alabama have been drastically different.

While working here at The Opelika Observer, I have had the pleasure of meeting a variety of different people that come from all different kinds of backgrounds and livelihoods. This has helped to open up a brand new world of perspective for me.

I have spent most

Defining Opelika

By Cliff McCollum For the Opelika Observer

Has the Opelika Observer really been around for a decade now? It doesn’t seem possible, but here we are.

For six of those years, I was blessed to serve in a variety of roles at the paper, from stringer to columnist to news editor and I loved each and every minute of it.

Apparently, because of that tenure, I’m allowed a column in this week’s anniversary edition, so, if you will, dear readers, indulge me a line or two.

The Observer’s greatest strength has always been right there on the front page for you - it’s a paper “for local people, by local people.”

If you want to know what’s going on around this city or Lee County, it’s going to be right here between these pages. It’s not national news or AP wire stories from who knows where - it’s stories and profiles about folks right here at home written and photographed by your friends and neighbors.

It’s how the Bulldogs did last Friday night.

It’s the latest new store or expansion coming to downtown Opelika.

It’s a review of the goings-on from a city council meeting or the county commission.

It’s a Robert Noles photo, a D. Mark Mitchell sports blurb or an Ann Cipperly recipe profile.

It’s Opelika - always has been and always will be.

This paper was born from a desire to cover our area the way it should be covered, to not have the important things for our community’s paper be decided on by corporate bigwigs who’ve never even been to our city.

Hard-hitting stories and feel-good features both carry equal weight here - it’s just about making sure you, the readers, are informed about everything going on here.

Over the years, many folks have come and gone from this wonderful paper to go on to new places and newer things, myself included.

I credit my time at the Observer with immersing me in how to be a community journalist - how to cover meetings, investigative stories, features, major events and everything in between. The Observer always gives a great crash course in how to be a oneman show when it comes to coverage.

And the results speak for themselves - the solid base I got here at the Observer led me to where I am now, a managing editor of four weekly newspapers down here in Baldwin County and a recipient of 14 first place Alabama Press Association awards.

If you love this community, continue to support this paper. It’s important for communities like Opelika to have a resource like this, a voice that will always be there to spur, to question, to challenge, to enjoy and to love our Opelika.

Some things just define Opelika, like the railroad track downtown or a Mrs. Story’s footlong chili dog.

I submit to you, dear readers, that this paper should also be one of those things - a source of pride for all our residents who live and thrive in this place we call home.

Congratulations to the Observer for ten amazing years - and here’s to many, many more.

Cliff McCollum is an Opelika native and Observer alumnus. He is now a resident of Fairhope and managing editor of Gulf Coast Media’s four weekly newspapers in Baldwin County.

of my life living in Orlando, which is a much larger city than Opelika. I have never really lived in a small town before, and through this internship, I have really gotten to see what life By Vanessa Poulson is like for people on I have learned, and the opposite end of an an important lesson urbanized culture. that each of us can I have learned about take and apply in our things that I would daily lives is that there have never come will be always more across in a big city, than one way to look like farming, agriculat things. Journalture, local fairs, true ism as an industry is southern food and just about exploring all how real southern hos- the intimate sides of a pitality is, especially story and understandhere in Auburn and ing the facts, feelings, Opelika. and motivations of the You never really subject in all their difknow just how small ferent lights. and large the world As people outside of can feel when you the journalistic world, live in a place so far we can do the same removed from a lot of thing with our own the rest of the world. It belief systems. There can be one of the best are rights and wrongs, moments of peace that goods and bads, and you will ever have in powerful things inside your life. each and every one of Something I think us and in others can

teach us new things.

We shouldn’t close ourselves off to that.

As I continue onwards with my writing journey, I know that the experiences I had in Opelika will be some that stand out for their unique features from the rest of my life so far. I encourage everyone to remember to look beyond their own perspectives, embrace the power of differences between people, and remember that the way you have lived your life and your own system of beliefs is not the only one that exists.

I believe it can be summed up best by Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird: “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view…until you climb in his skin and walk around in it.”

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D4 October 31, 2018

Local civic organizations conduct meetings, strive to enrich their communities

Special to the Opelika Observer Opelika Sportsplex and Aquatics Center manager John Huling, left, was a recent guest of the Opelika Lions Club where he gave a general update of current activities and events occurring at the Sportsplex, and new programs in the works for the coming months. For a schedule of events and membership opportunites, call the Sportsplex at 334-705-5560 or go online at https://www.opelika-al.gov/391/Opelika-Sportsplex-Aquatics-Center. Mr. Huling was introduced by Lion Jim Allen, right.

Special to the Opelika Observer Kent Wright, a member of the Tennessee Valley Civil War Round Table, spoke at Thursday's Kiwanis Club of Opelika meeting about the role of the pirate-like militia, "privateers," in the Civil War. Pictured are Kent Wright and Bob Harris.

Wright spoke the Kiwanis Club of Opelika on Thursday about the role of privateers leading up to and during the Civil War. Privateers are civilians who plunder at sea for profit. They are different from pirates in that they are sanctioned by a government at war (although there was quite a dispute between the Union and the Confederacy whether they were privateers or pirates since the Union did not recognize the Confederacy as a nation).

These privateers not only forced President Lincoln's hand leading to the beginning of the war, but they also pulled resources away from the war once it began.

Special to the Opelika Observer Above, Sarah McMillian, secretary of the People of Action for Community Enrichment, shows off a pink blanket she sewed to promote October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

PACE is an organization that exists to reward community benefiting organizations including the Boys and Girls Club, local Department of Human Resources, East Alabama Food Bank, March of Dimes and more. During the month of October, the group sends care packages to local cancer centers and hospitals. George Echols currently serves as the president of PACE.

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Special to the Opelika Observer Lynne Boucher reviewed changes made in the federal tax law which affect individuals and businesses with the Opelika Rotary Club. Boucher is a Certified Public Accountant with the Jackson Thornton firm. The law reduced my tax rates, but also removed a number of deductions. The promised tax simplification wasn’t delivered in the final bill, although many individual taxpayers will no longer need to use the tedious itemization schedules. Pictured from left to right: Nate Kastner, club president and Boucher.

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D5 October 31, 2018

Union Thanksgiving Service of the Lee County Interdenominational Alliance to be held Nov. 18

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor

Members and pastors of all Lee County churches are welcome to attend the annual “Union Thanksgiving Service of the Lee County Interdenominational Alliance” Nov. 18

at 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Opelika.

Held for more than 20-plus years, the service will feature a message by Pastor Antoine Harvis, who works as a staff member of Global Impact Church and is the director of the Opelika-based non-

profit “Dad’s League.”

The service’s location rotates yearly between First Baptist Church and Greater Peace Baptist Church.

Choirs from both host churches, including the Auburn-Opelika Korean Church, will provide music and Pastor Noah

Kiser of First Presbyterian Church will lead a special prayer for Lee County Peace officers.

Portion of the service will be done in Korean and Spanish to reflect the area’s growth in diversity.

Event coordinator Henry Lewis Smith,

pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Auburn, said the service is a great way for the community to gather together in thankfulness and unity to praise God for His blessings.

“This annual time of pausing to give thanks of our Almighty God

has grown tremendously in the last several years.

It is now the one time in our community in which Christians from many congregations come together,” Smith said.

First Baptist Church is located at 301 S. 8th St. in downtown Opelika.

Downtown Holiday Open House Nov. 4

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor Downtown Opelika merchants will

provide patrons with a first glimpse of their Christmas gifts and offerings during the annual “Holiday

All Aboard at Southern Crossing Holiday Open House Sunday November 4th 12pm- 5pm

Open House” event Nov. 4 from noon - 5 p.m.

Organized by Opelika Main Street

members, the annual event is a great way for shoppers to know what their options are downtown, according to Taylor Made Designs Owner Taylor Sumrall.

“The open house serves as a preview for all our customers to come out and kind of see the first reveal of the holidays in downtown Opelika.

All of the stores are fully decorated and stocked with stocking stuffers and the gifts you need for everyone on your list. It kicks off the first round of the holiday

join us for Free holiday gift wrapping, door prize games snacks and refreshments!

season for those that do all (their shopping) before Thanksgiving and gets us all ready for the season.”

Merchants’ shops will also be full of Christmas cheer, as various stores will be serving beverages and snacks, holding door prize giveaways, offering free gift wrapping and more.

Following is a current list of participating vendors, which is subject to change until the day of the event: - All Aboard by Southern Crossing

- Coveted Closet - Fringe - Fringe Kid’s - The Gallery on Railroad - Gatherings by Judy and Paula - Heritage Gifts and Gourmet - Maria Jewelers - Oliver Henry - Southern Crossing - Studio 3:19 - Taylor Made Designs.

For more information, like and follow Opelika Main Street’s social media pages or visit www. opelikamainstreet. org.

Visit Maria Jewelers on Nov. 4 during Holiday Open House and receive a free $50 gift certificate.

815 S. Railroad Ave Historic Downtown Opelika

Please join Southern Crossing for our annual Holiday Open House

Sunday November 4th 12pm-5pm 813 S. Railroad Ave Historic Downtown Opelika

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE NOV. 4 804 n. railroad avenue

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D6 October 31, 2018

Downtown Opelika becomes hub for business, food, entertainment, shopping in last decade

By Morgan Bryce Associate Editor In the 10 years since the Observer’s founding in 2008, downtown Opelika has undergone a renaissance, and has become a hub for business, entertainment, food and drink, shopping and most importantly, community.

City Hall and the Lee County Courthouse serve

as political epicenters, and as the meeting places for the Opelika City Council and Lee County Commission. At those locations, citizens can purchase building or business permits or renew license plates and pay for property taxes.

Events are held in downtown on a frequent basis. Traditional events like Opelika Main Street’s

“On the Tracks,” “Christmas in a Railroad Town” and the Chamber of Commerce’s annual Christmas Parade still draw large crowds.

Live music has become a staple of downtown Opelika events. Through Cottonseed Studios, Eighth and Rail, Irish Bred Pub, Jefferson’s and 10,000 Hz Records, established and up-and-

coming acts from a gamut of genres are coming to perform, most notably St. Paul and the Broken Bones during August’s third annual “concourse/ south” arts and music festival.

Downtown Opelika’s culinary scene offers a wide scope of cuisines and offerings to patrons. There are a number of casual, sit-down restaurants as

Timeline, from D1

in 2014.

J and Virgina Stern, took their father’s place as co-owners of the Observer when their father passed away in July 2014.

Rebekah Martin was hired in 2014 as a reporter and became the associate editor after James took a position in North Alabama in May 2016.

I was hired as the office administrator in October 2014.

2016-2017 Martin served as associate editor to Woods until November 2017 when she moved to Hartselle, Alabama.

It was under Woods editorship that some of the

tillery, Red Clay Brewery well as fine-dining esand the soon-to-be opened tablishments offering the Resting Pulse Brewery perfect place for a night serve wine, spirits, craft out or special occasion.

Earlier this year, Mama beer and more.

Shopping is readily Mocha’s Coffee Emavailable in downtown porium expanded from - antiques, clothing, Auburn to Opelika and joins Side Track Coffee as furniture, home decor and more. a place where people can Opelika native Richard satisfy their caffeine cravPatton is leading two ings. Ampersand Wine Bar (the area’s only wine bar), John Emerald DisSee Downtown, page D7 successful changes that are still in place today occurred. With the assistance of the owner’s management team, of which Woods was a member, and an industry consultant, a decision was made in 2016 to lower the cost of the subscription price and to distribute the paper at no cost in the newspaper boxes in the community.

In March 2016, the paper also changed the distribution date from Fridays to Wednesdays which has been a popular change with readers.

Charlie Ray, an Opelika native and businessman, joined the Observer as a co-owner in 2016.

2017-Current In 2017, the remaining owners made the decision that it was time for them to step away from the

Observer as owners. They offered the employees the opportunity to purchase the business and I said yes.

I became editor Aug. 1, 2017, working under the guidence of Woods and the rest of the managment team. I finalized the purchase of the Observer at the end of December 2017.

Woods said that he felt like they had turned the paper over to good hands.

“The Observer continues to build upon what we set out to do,” Woods said.

Morgan Bryce was named the associate editor in January 2018 and has been instrumental in the growth of the paper since that time. He has managed the internship program and editorial content.

Bryce was named editor and will serve in that capacity starting next week.

It’s 1595, and brothers Nick and Nigel Bottoms are desperately tr ying to write a hit play.

Would music and dancing help beat Will Shakespeare at his own game?

thursday November 15th, 2018 the oPeLIKa CeNter For the PerFormING arts To purchase tickets, call 334.749.8105 or visit eastalabamaar ts.org

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exciting time to be a part of the Opelika Observer.”

New Members The Observer also introduced Rick Lanier as a new member of the team.

Lanier joined the Observer as a sports writer in late August to assist with coverage of local area high

school football.

Lanier is a retired U. S. Navy Warrant Officer who joined the military after graduating from Opelika High School.

He moved back to Opelika in 2008.

“I’ve always enjoyed storytelling through words, and being around those who are really good at it. I’m extremely grateful that I have the opportunity to experience all of that at

Reflections, from D1 Stock Market Crash By the end of 2008, the Dow was down 34 percent, closing at 8,816.62. It reached its low of 7,552 on Nov. 20, a 46-percent decline from its October 2007 high of 14,164. On Oct. 3, the Senate passed the $700 billion bailout bill, now called the Troubled Asset Relief Program.

Apple introduces the new ultra-thin MacBook Air Notebook Apple introduces the public to the new ultra-thin MacBook Air notebook that is less than an inch thick and turns on the moment the moment its lid is opened.

YouTube Explosion 2008 was certainly a huge year for YouTube, with major internet stars like FRED, SMOSH, Ray William Johnson, Jenna Marbles and College Humor bursting on to the

the Observer,” Lanier said.

Although Robert Noles is not new to the Observer, it was announced that he will be involed in the Observer in the greater capacity of photo journalist/staff reporter following his retirement from the City of Opelika.

Noles has worked for the city for the last 18 years, and joined the Observer as a freelance pho-

scene.

Dance Craze While today’s youth may be ruled by dances like “flossing” from viral video games like Fortnite, 2008 was a year for Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” dance and “Soulja Boy.” Revelations about Stonehenge It is discovered by scientists that Stonehenge is older than originally thought, by nearly 500 years. It was likely erected in 3000 B.C and suspected to have been used as a healing site.

Britney Spears makes her comeback After a difficult year in 2007, Britney Spears came back strong at the 2008 MTV Music Video Awards, taking home three awards for her album "Circus."

Beijing hosts the 2008 Olympics The opening ceremony took place at 8:08 p.m. on Aug. 8 and helped foster a boom in infrastructure and bring in a

D7 October 31, 2018

Lanier tographer in 2009.

“It has been a joy to photograph our community over the years. To see the

truckload of revenue from tourism.

High School Musical 3 heads for the big screen After the roaring success of the first two movies, High School Musical fans across the world rejoiced as the series' third installments headed to the silver screen.

Other interesting comparisons: Overall prices have gone up 32 percent from 2008 to 2018.

2008: Average new car: $27,958 Cost of a gallon of gas $3.39 A gallon of milk: $3.22 Russet potatoes: .88 cents a pound Dozen eggs: $1.29 2018: Average new car: $21,815 Cost of a gallon of gas: $2.68 A gallon of milk: $3.15 Russet potatoes: $1.12 a pound Dozen eggs: $2.32.

parents and kids, once their picture has been published in the Opelika Observer, bring them happiness and makes me feel great,” Noles said.

“Now I am seeing the children grow over the years from the Christmas Parade, to the Parks and Recreation Easter egg hunt, to being seniors playing sports, band, plays, clubs andother school actives. I am looking forward to

Downtown,

from D6

major construction projects in downtown - an entertainment hub in the historic Cotton Warehouse District along First Avenue and first phase of the Southside subdivision, which includes the construction of seven homes along Eighth Street and Avenue D. With a downtown brimming full of activity and life, two Opelika dignitaries shared their thoughts on the developments and how they have benefited the city as a whole.

“I’m pleased with the growth and positive changes in Historic Downtown Opelika over the past 10 years. I’m most excited about the new entrepreneurs now doing business downtown,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller.

“These smart, hardworking folks have made a substantial investment and expect to make a good return on that investment. Our

Noles continuing filling the Opelika Observer with pictures of the current events and people around town.”

best days are ahead of us, especially downtown. I can’t wait to see what it looks and feels like five or 10 years from now.”

As the former director of Opelika Main Street and now president of the Opelika Chamber of Commerce, Pam Powers-Smith said she believes the changes have helped the city find its true identity along the way.

“Our downtown has changed so much it’s almost hard to believe. What I think is interesting is that along the way we’ve found our personality,” PowersSmith said. “It wasn’t just simply businesses coming and going – during all of that adaptation was the foundation of creating what it was going to be and what it has become. I hope all Opelika citizens are just as proud, and I hope they love it and visit it every day.”

For more information or to learn more about downtown businesses or events, visit www. opelika-al.gov/, www.opelikachamber.com and www.opelikamainstreet.org.

“Thanks for being our neighbor for the last 10 years.”

Informing the public is a fundamental freedom and a tremendous responsibility. AuburnBank would like to congratulate the Opelika Observer in the continuance of this most important endeavor to serve the citizens of Lee County.

Best wishes for your continued success.

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