pelika Observer O
Vol. 12, No. 06
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2019
Opelika, Alabama
“By local people, for local people.”
City of Opelika holds Veteran’s Day Celebration on Monday
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer By Morgan Bryce Editor Gratitude was the main theme of this
year’s Veterans Day ceremony hosted by the city of Opelika on Monday. In his opening remarks, Mayor
Gary Fuller scanned the gathered crowd of military heroes and thanked them all for their service and
contribution to preserving freedom and liberty for all AmeriSee Veterans, page A3
Hallmark Channel brings early Christmas joy for Beauregard families affected by March tornado By Morgan Bryce Editor
launched initiative titled “Hometown
Through a recently
See Hallmark, page A2
Opelika’s historic Ward Funeral New gym ‘Workout Anytime Opelika’ opening at 501 2nd Ave. in early December Home demolished last week By Morgan Bryce Editor Wanting to get a head start on some New Year’s resolutions like weight loss and leading a healthier lifestyle? Look no further than Workout Anytime Opelika, a new gym slated to open in early December. Located at 501 2nd Ave., the gym is owned and operated by Swaziland native Andrew Cawood, who currently resides in Atlanta. Cawood has an extensive background in physical fitness, running track and field at The Citadel, an NCAA Division I program based in Charleston,
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
South Carolina. In Atlanta, he is actively involved in a local CrossFit group and is a member of the city’s running and triathlon communities. With his passion for physical fitness and experience operating a triathlon-coaching program, Cawood said he saw the AuburnOpelika area as a perfect place to pursue
his vision by opening his own business. “I love the (area) and there are no gyms (there) that I choose. I wanted to bring a great gym to this area,” Cawood said. Workout Anytime will feature brand-new exercise equipment, hydro-massage chairs, tanning beds and weight-lifting maSee Gym, page A2
Index
OPINION.....................................A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 RELIGION..............................A13 CALENDAR..................................A14
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
By Morgan Bryce Editor Opelika’s historic Ward Funeral Home was torn down last Wednesday, marking the end of a structure that had been in
COMICS.....................................A16 SPORTS..................................B1 PUBLIC NOTICES..........................B10 POLITICS...................................B13
existence for nearly 150 years. Amidst pleas from property owner Maurice Ward at an Oct. 1 Opelika City Council meeting, the council voted unanimously to approve
a bid from AAA General Contractors Inc. to demolish the home. That decision came after three previous discussions of demolishing the home during the last See Ward, page A3
pelika O Observer.com
What’s Up? www.doughornroofing.com • 334-744-5246
pelika O Observer
A2 Nov. 13, 2019
Lee County Humane Society needs Opelika Chamber of Commerce, community’s help to begin offering East Alabama Medical Center to host inaugural ‘Sno*pelika’ event free cat and dog adoptions Special to the Opelika Observer The Lee County Humane Society is currently at maximum capacity and needs help clearing the shelter! The shelter needs the community’s help to raise $15,000 by the end of Nov. 15 in order to offer free adoptions for the very first time during this two-day event. It costs the shelter nearly $100 to provide care and medically treat each animal that comes through our doors. That cost increases the longer the animal stays in the shelter’s care. We need your help to sponsor the adoption costs of the 159 adoption-ready animals living in our shelter right now! Many of those animals have become long-
Gym, from A1 chines. Fitness classes will be taught at the facility. Cawood said enrollment is $1, with
term residents and they are more than ready to find their forever home. All cat adoptions include: ● spay/neuter ● physical exam ● FVRCP vaccine ● FIV/FeLV test ● deworming ● microchip ● free t-shirt ● free veterinary visit within 7 days of adoption All dog adoptions include: ● spay/neuter ● physical exam ● DHPP vaccine ● Bordatella vaccine ● Heartworm test and preventative deworming ● microchip ● free t-shirt and ● free veterinary visit within 7 days of adoption Every dollar raised will count towards Bark Bowl, a friendly fundraising
competition between Lee County Humane Society and Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter during the month of November. For every dollar raised, the humane society is one step closer to winning the 2019 Bark Bowl title. To reach the shelter’s goal of becoming the 2019 champion, LCHS has a calendar packed full of community events and there is something for everyone. To see the full list, visit their calendar on www.leecountyhumane.org. For more information or to donate directly to the Bark Bowl fundraiser or call 334-821-3222 to speak with LCHS staff. LCHS is open for adoptions from 12 to 5 p.m. All available pets can be viewed online at www. leecountyhumane.org/adopt.
membership packages of $15 (basic) and $25 (premium) available. “We hope to have 1,500 members in presales, grow from there and make ourselves part of the community. We are really excited about helping everyone be their best
selves starting in the new year,” Cawood said. For more information or updates on the business’s opening and finalized hours of operation, like and follow their Facebook page or visit www. workoutanytime.com.
“Our Mission is Your Health”
Beauregard Drugs We do wellness screenings for local & state employees. Call 334-364-9993 for details p 334-364-9993 | f 334-364-9997 7667 Alabama Hwy 51, Ste. A, Opelika www.beauregarddrugs.com
Dec. 4 in downtown Opelika Special to the Opelika Observer Opelika doesn’t get a lot of snow at Christmas until now. The Sno*pelika Christmas Festival and Tree lighting is the newest Christmas celebration to hit Courthouse Square in downtown Opelika. Presented by East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC) and hosted by the Opelika Chamber of Commerce, this spectacular snowy event will usher in the Christmas Season on Dec. 4 from 5 to 8
Hallmark, from A1 Christmas,” the Hallmark Channel was able to bring a little dose of Christmas joy to the Beauregard community on Saturday. Part of a television special that will air later this year, the day started with a special luncheon for March 3 tornado survivors, first responders and volunteers
p.m. The festival will begin at Courthouse Square and end with the lighting of the beautiful Christmas tree located on Railroad Avenue. Guests are invited to dress up their pets and participate in a reindog parade just for man’s best friend as well as an inflatable snow globe and slide for children. Church choirs will perform and compete for the best Christmas music while a Giving Back Sleigh will be available for attendees to place items in
for local children in need. There will be giveaways and more from EAMC and the night will finish with a lighting of Opelika’s official Christmas tree. For more information on Sno*pelika, visit www.opelikachamber.com, the Chamber’s Facebook page or call chamber program and events manager Mackenzie Kayler at 334-7455861. For more information on Christmas events in Opelika, visit www.opelikachristmas.com.
from Beauregard and Smiths Station at Providence Baptist Church’s West Campus. That was followed by a special gathering inside the church’s sanctuary. Later that evening, guests and the Beauregard community were invited to attend a ceremony for the lighting of a 26foot artificial tree. At the request of Hallmark officials, no photos or video from the event can
be released until the program has aired in December. Earlier this year, Hallmark announced it was funding the construction of home’s for three Beauregard families to go along with the 15 built by the Chattahoochee Fuller Center. The reveal of those three homes to families will be included in the special. For more information, visit www. hallmarkdrama.com.
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pelika Observer
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w w w. o p e l i k a o b s e r v e r . c o m 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801
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CORRECTIONS The Opelika Observer will correct any errors, omissions or inaccuracies deemed to be substantive. Corrections may be requested by contacting the Editor at (334) 749-8003.
pelika O Observer
A3 Nov. 13, 2019
Goodwill recruiting volunteers for tax season; volunteers needed to provide free tax-prep services to community Special to the Opelika Observer Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers, Inc. is in need of volunteers to support its free tax preparation services offered to the community. Each year, Goodwill provides free tax preparation services to the community through a partnership with the IRS. The program, known as VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), recruits and trains volunteers to prepare free tax returns for households that earn fewer than
Veterans, from A1 can citizens. “Some people forget Veterans Day altogether, but that’s certainly not true in our community,” Fuller said. “Veterans are our heroes and should never be forgotten. I think it’s important for us to pass down veterans stories from generation to generation so they will forever be remembered.” Following Fuller’s remarks, members of Opelika High School’s choir delivered a rousing A capella rendition of the National Anthem. and Ward 4 Councilman Eddie Smith led the crowd by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. This year’s ceremony featured two guest speakers, Opelika native and Army Col. Richard Pelham and Marine Col. Chris Richie, who spoke on a central theme and message of “Veterans: Why We Serve - Past, Present and Future.” Richie, Marine Corps advisor to Air University, awardwinning author and
Ward, from A1 eight years and granting Ward time needed to begin restoring the home, which had been abandoned for nearly 30 years. More than 60 comments were left on an Observer Facebook post last week about the home’s demolition, which saw mixed emotions from users. Some, including Kelly Broom Cox, favored the demolition, saying that she was “so glad the city is committed to cleaning up!” Others, like Bill
$54,000 annually. Volunteers commit to a minimum of 30 hours between January and April, all while gaining valuable work experience, becoming certified in tax law and helping taxpayers in the community. If you are a college student and are required to complete volunteer hours, this is a great opportunity to volunteer, learn a skill and build your resume. Volunteers are needed at the Goodwill career centers in Midtown Columbus, Newnan, Opelika and Phenix City. Vol-
unteer opportunities include intake/greeter and tax preparers. Volunteers are also required to complete tax preparer training and certification before tax season begins. Training sessions can be found at www.goodwillsr. org/vitavolunteer, where those interested can register and sign up to be a VITA volunteer. Individuals interested in volunteering are also invited to attend the VITA Volunteer Information Session on Nov.21 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Midtown Career Center off of
Macon Road. Goodwill has offered free tax prep for the community through the VITA program for ten years. So far in 2019, 3,950 individuals and families have received free tax services, which has generated a $10 million economic impact. For more information on the free tax services offered by Goodwill please visit, www.goodwillsr.org/vita. Individuals who are interested in becoming a VITA volunteer or have further questions can email Goodwill at volunteers@
gwisr.org, contact our Financial Services Department at 706256-1837 or attend the VITA information session on Nov. 21. About Goodwill Southern Rivers: Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers (GoodwillSR) is one of 158 independent, community- based Goodwill nonprofits across the United States and Canada. Headquartered in Columbus, GoodwillSR serves 50 counties throughout East Alabama and West Georgia. We provide employment readiness
training, computer access, educational assistance, skills workshops and more to spur job placement and economic stability in the communities we serve. They can provide these and other programs thanks to the continued donations of giving patrons. They use the revenue generated in GoodwillSR stores to fund the majority of their community services. For more information about Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers, visit www.goodwillsr. org.
respected key-note speaker, took the podium first and explained to the audience the “who, how and why” of veterans and their service. “All veterans, ever since the Revolutionary War, carry that warrior spirit. They have understood that the blessing of liberty is worthy any sacrifice they can offer, up to and including their own lives,” Richie said. “Veterans secured our (lives) from the battlefield of Saratoga, Vera Cruz, Bellau Wood, Midway Island, Chosin Reservoir ... and Kabul.” Near the end of his speech, Richie shared a brief synopsis of his path to military service, which started with his grandfather, Eugene. Serving as a company commander in the Phillipines in December 1941, Eugene fought and served there until April 1942 when the country fell to the Japanese. While evading capture, he injured by a grenade and was bayoneted while stumbling during the Bataan Death March. Eugene served 42 months as a prisoner-of-war until his
liberation. After the war, Eugene returned home, married and started a family, having six children. Richie said he decided as a 12-yearold boy to join the military after he witnessed the gratitude shown to his grandparents during a Veterans Day service at Fort Rucker. “At one point, a general walked by and saluted my grandfather. (My grandfather) was in civilian clothes and retired, so I was confused and perplexed and asked one of my uncles why,” Richie said. “He told me, ‘son, your grandfather is a hero. At that moment, I knew I was going to serve my country.” Pelham started off his speech by thanking the city for hosting the event and reminding the audience about the true meaning of the holiday. “We’re here today to honor our heroes, to remember their achievements, their courage and their dedication and to say thank you for your sacrifices,” Pelham said. Later, he asked
each veteran present, including retired Command Sgt. Maj. and Medal of Honor recipient Bennie Adkins, to stand and be recognized with applause from the audience. “The service members we honor today come from all walks of life, but they share several fundamental qualities: they possess courage, pride, determination, selflessness, dedication to duty and integrity. All of those qualities are needed to serve something larger than one’s self,” Pelham said. According to a press release submitted by the city of Opelika preceding this event, Pelham is “a U.S. Army Officer assigned to the faculty of the United States Air Force Air War College at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery. He is in the Department of Leadership and Warfighting, where he teaches strategic leadership and the profession of arms, future concepts in air power and theater strategy and campaigning. His awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Award),
the Army Meritorious Service Medal (3rd Award), the Army Commendation Medal (4th Award), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star and the NATO Non-Article 5 Medal, along with various other awards.” “I’m now (almost) 36 years removed from that young 18-year-old, and don’t regret a day of service to this great country,” Pelham said. “I’ve been fortunate to have some great (comrades and mentors) who taught me how to be a leader, and for that, I am forever grateful.” The service concluded with the unveiling of a cenotaph outside City Hall dedicated to the late Opelika native and Private First Class Charlie Giddens. On a service flyer provided by the city, Giddens was being kept as a prisoner during World War II. During that time, judges could offer military service as alternative sentencing for inmates. According to Giddens’ obituary, “he was a lifetime resi-
dent of Lee County. He was well-known and had many friends. He passed away at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Tuskegee.” Giddens’ grave marker was found at the historic Ward Funeral Home earlier this year by California native Jeff Hamilton, who was visiting his daughter and WLTZ reporter Marlena Mumma. Opelika historian Edna Ward helped research and compile information for the city’s report on Giddens. Following the service, the Museum of East Alabama hosted a reception for all veterans present at the service. About Veterans Day, taken from www.military.com “This holiday started as a day to reflect upon the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and was originally called ‘Armistice Day.’ It fell on Nov. 11 because that is the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. However, in 1954, the holiday was changed to “Veterans Day” in order to account for all veterans in all wars.”
Mount, saw the home’s demolition as the loss of yet another structure of historical significance to the city. “Sad day (for Opelika). What a beautiful old place,” Mount said. According to the few records that exist pertaining to the structure’s history, the house was built in 1870 and originally lived in by Dr. Eugene Lindsey and his wife. Lindsey, an African American physician from LaGrange, owned and operated Lindsey’s Drugstore and Soda Fountain on Ninth Street, one of the few places
where black citizens could sit and socialize while waiting for their prescriptions to be filled. He was contemporaries with Drs. W.F. Clark, James W. Darden and Frank Steele. Later, the structure was turned into a funeral home, which it was best known for housing. The Ward family still operates a funeral home which serves the Valley area. The Observer attempted to reach out to Ward and his family for more information about the home’s history and significance, but declined to comment for this article.
pelika O Opinion
A4 Nov. 13, 2019
Games
T
he Alabama-LSU game is on. Half the jerseys in this sports bar are Alabama-crimson. The other half are purple, worn by people who shout “GO TIGERS!” I am wearing a crimson T-shirt, sitting at the bar, meeting my wife here for dinner tonight. She is running a little late. There is some trash talk going on between opposing teams. Nothing too off-color. This is a game day tradition between LSU and Alabama fans. These two sets of fans are vicious enemies. Today, it’s mostly just middle-aged guys doing the tough talking. There are no cuss words being used because most middleaged guys are dads and have already started speaking fluent four-year-old. Take my friend, John. He often uses the word “potty” in daily conversation. He will use even use this word if he is, for instance, at a monster truck rally. There is an old man at the bar beside me, an LSU fan. He is old. Reserved. Wearing purple. He drinks gin and tonic. He and the bartender start talking about LSU. She’s in a purple jersey, too. She is from Louisiana and she even sings a little of the LSU fight song,
B
“Hey Fightin’ Tigers.” “Hey fightin’ Tigers, “Fight all the way, “Hey fightin’ Tigers, “Win the game today…” I have known all kinds of fans in my time. LSU fans are a different breed. I once dated a girl from Baton Rouge. She was so passionate about her school that it’s a wonder she’s not in jail on assault charges. She and her mother and her sisters would often burst into singing the LSU fight song at the most bizarre moments. It didn’t matter if they were cooking spaghetti, or at a Junior League meeting. When the mood hit, they would sing “Hey Fightin’ Tigers” and then headbutt whoever dared oppose them. Ask me how I know this. Alabama fans aren’t that way. We are tame. We don’t headbutt our enemies. Sure, we might shoot potato guns at our opponents’ windshields during a fourth-quarter tailgate brawl. But we don’t headbutt.
See Dietrich, page A6
M
y daughter is a junior at Auburn University. She is young and beautiful and sweet. And she is at risk because there are people in this world who are living, breathing, walking nightmares. They prowl city streets. Not just big city streets. They prowl our streets. My daughter sent me this text today: “You know that convenience store where Aniah Blanchard was last seen? I go in there all the time. That could have been me, Mom.” I sat at my desk and let that sink in, and the pit of my stomach knotted up with fear. The kind of fear that makes breathing almost impossible. I could picture her putting gas in her Nissan and buying a Kit Kat and never coming home again. And that few moments was but an infinitesimal glimpse of what Aniah’s parents are living with every single moment of their days. Aniah Blanchard. Her face is on websites and billboards. Her story is on everyone’s lips. And her name has been uttered in prayer by people who never knew her but who have
By Wendy Hodge
waited and hoped for her safe return. She is a part of our community. She is a daughter and a sister and a friend and a student. And she is a lifetime of memories and stories and smiles that only her family can measure. And now we know who took her away. He has a name, but I will not speak it here. Not in the same space as Aniah’s name. We’ve seen his face. We’ve looked into those eyes. We’ve read his rap sheet – the list of evil that is his history. And now the noise is deafening as we all try to make sense of how and why. Conversations at work and around weekend bonfires and during football games has centered around what has happened and what is to come. Please do me this courtesy: I don’t want to hear about his disadvantaged childhood. I don’t want to hear about his socioeconom-
ic status or his financial hardships. I don’t want to hear about his political relevance or the color of his skin. And I certainly don’t want to hear how the system failed him. What I do want to hear is that he will finally be held responsible, completely and solely responsible, for the unimaginable things he has done. He has stolen an irreplaceable life. He has gutted his victim’s families as surely as if he held a knife to their hearts. He has taken the emotions of our entire state and turned them inside out. He has sparked fear and worry and dread. and now it is time for anger. But make no mistake – my anger begins and ends with the soulless individual who made decision after decision to show no mercy, to spread evil at will, and to disregard other people’s lives as if they meant nothing. Did the adults in this criminal’s life fail him when he was young? Maybe. I have no idea. Is our system broken? Yes, it is. How many times should a person be allowed to attempt to harm another person before they are See Hodge, page A6
A historian proves his or her worth
ack in 2007, the Associated Press sent out an article about an Alabama university that had a dress code. Which university is not the point. I’ll get to the point shortly. I am part of a profession that wants you to believe that if you study the past you will see mistakes made in the past and avoid them in the future. Which is why I am so proud of what happened at the university in question. The administration drew up a dress code for students, and when I saw how they planned to enforce it, I saw a
L
By Sean Dietrich
The old man sips his drink and watches the game. Whenever LSU scores, he and the bartender headbutt me. No. I am only kidding. They only smirk at me. But I can tell that they want to headbutt. The place starts to get out of control, further into the game. Alabama is behind, and anyone who happens to be wearing purple is ordering another round. But the old man is not like that. He is not saying much. He’s just watching. I start a conversation with him. “Are you from Lousinana?” I ask. “No,” he says. “Birmingham, but my daughter went to LSU.” “Oh? Where’s she live now?” “Well… She’s uh…” He shifts on his stool. “She’s no longer living.” There’s another play on the screen. People cheer. He doesn’t say anything. He’s too lost in thought. The bartender asks if he wants another gin. He says no. He just wants some tonic water. We toast to our health. We clink glasses. He says, “Did you go to the University of Alabama? Over in Tuscaloosa?” “No. Community col-
In the Dark
historian’s handiwork. Historians know a lot about dressing and codes. Back in the 60s, both were hot issues. The Vietnam War was raging. Campuses were in turmoil. There were radicals and riots and all sorts of unsavory people running. Administrators believed they could pick out those folks by the way they dressed. So, with one of those leaps of administrative logic that makes sense only to college administrators, college administrators concluded that unsavory people would stop doing unsavory things
if they dressed savory. So, they drew up dress codes that outlawed clothes that might reflect radical tendencies or inspire such tendencies in those who, as yet, were undecided to which tendencies they might give in. (For sheer stupidity, consider that the south Florida college where I taught. Its administrators prohibited, among other things, the wearing of shorts to class. South Florida, hotter than five kinds of hell, the guys in pants and the girls in knee-length skirts and dresses.) But those were troubled times and administrators hoped that
By Hardy Jackson a dress code would hold back the tide of unwanted change and prove a barrier between the civilized and those who would destroy all that was happy and holy. As any historian will tell you, it didn’t work. Soon, shorts were the least of their worries. Mini and micromini skirts were the rage, as were hip-hug-
ging pants, bare midriffs and see-through shirts – that that was just on the guys. Although the code was on the books, enforcement proved impossible. Students simply ignored it. Administrators tried to keep up a good front, tried to tell kids what should and should not be worn, but to little avail. No sooner was one style outlawed than another rose to take its place. The hippielook morphed into the disco-look which was discarded for the preppie-look which was rejected for the grunge-look except
by those who went for the Goth-look or the hoochie-mama-look. College code creators simply gave up. Now it is all history. And what can we learn from it? We can learn that fashions change and there is not a thing college administrators can do about it. (Evidence also suggests that the best way to be assured that students will wear what you want them to wear is to tell them not to, but taking that approach could always backfire. Students aren’t as dumb as they seem in class.) See Jackson, page A6
Art & Nature Conservancy | Brandywine
eaves of gold, line the trail along Brandywine. At the end of their descent, rich blackened soil laces these mosaics. They form a yellow brick road, through the balmy current toward the millstone. Quiet footsteps lead fruitful meditation, as I retrace many a master’s path. I gaze across the river basin. Stark light casts ember glow o’er a meadow filled with kneehigh grasses. Trees bow to the autumn breeze, as a storm passes briskly. The dewy air blankets shrubs and herbaceous borders; rendering moister visible on thatched rooftops and museum façade. I pass a cherry tree, its fruit in
full bloom. On my way toward the entryway, I discover the local artisan’s promenade. Quilts, and wooden crafted goods fill the marketplace, inviting all to browse, appreciate and treasure hunt. A tremendous array of Hudson River School paintings are exhibited in the museum’s New Acquisitions Gallery. I’m thrilled to find myself amid a discussion over the artist’s varying styles, approach to light, along with colour. The work of La Farge enthralls me most, and Martin Johnson Heade’s --Salt Marsh evokes extensive contemplation. This being my initial visit
By Sarah West to Chadds Ford, I take my time. I pause for luncheon at the café and savor an early afternoon tea before venturing into the nature-scape. This trip corresponds with my studies at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, and poetically ties together my relationship with parklands and
nature conservancy. The sunlight strengthens, and I explore the many pathways near Kuerner Farm and the creekside banks. I find an alcove along a tranquil pathway and begin en plein air oil sketches, representational of the day and place. There is much ponder in a state of mind as earthly as this. My thoughts are filled with history, prolific artworks and a grand sense of presence. The fording naturescape is sharp, calm and composed. I feel, I am able to grasp a clearer understanding of Wyeth’s work, when seen where he lived. General Washington’s headquarters is located only a
stone’s throw away, at Brandywine Battlefield (the site of the army’s 1777 encampment.) Howard Pyle’s Painter’s Folly and the Wyeth studios are nearby also. The painted image of Andrew’s nude, the Virgin, stays with me still. Wyeth’s illustrations harken back to a time of illuminated stories on paper. There is venerate tone towards heritage; it is common and deeply rooted, a strength derived from the land and works surface. Stand in one place for any length of time and you’ll find your own roots reflection in the work of those who forged paths before you. West serves the
Opelika Observer as a contributing columnist, with written works of cultural arts relevance and prose. She is a preservation and conservation advocate, activist and visual artist of American Illustration with a focus on regional narrative painting. She is the founder of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, a center for cultural arts, Smiths Station’s premier fine-arts destination. She mentors students of every age through weekly classes at her studio located in the heart of Smiths Station. To learn more about her work and activism, visit www. thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com.
pelika O Observer
A5 Nov. 13, 2019
Alabama Judicial Assistants Association group donates $2,500 to MEND to meet needs of March 3 tornado survivors Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Pictured left to right: Mary Roberson, Lee County Circuit Clerk; Jessica Ventiere, Lee County Chief Assistant District Attorney; Brenda Cowhick, President of the Alabama Judicial Assistant’s Association and judicial assistant to Circuit Judge Jake Walker; Donna Moreman, judicial assistant to Circuit Judge Chris Hughes; Dora Freeman, judicial assistant to Circuit Judge Mike Fellows; Jennifer Margeson, judicial assistant to Circuit Judge Mike Fellows; Connie Majors, judicial assistant to District Judge Russell Bush; and Denisa Bell, administrative assistant in the Court Administrator’s Office. Not pictured Stephanie Jones, Judicial Assistant to District Judge Steven Speakman.
pelika O Opinion Lauren Johnston Duncan of J&M Bookstore releases first published book ‘Made to Create’ A6
Nov. 13, 2019
By Bradley Robertson For the Opelika Observer “I am a little pencil, in the hands of a writing God, who is sending a love letter to the world.” -Mother Teresa I found this quote years ago and fell in love with it. The imagery of God holding me, as if a pencil, and moving me through my day is life giving. I see a picture of us together, writing our story. Our local pastor recently preached a sermon on these endearing words, evoking a new joy and direction in me. One that is more about the lives of other people and not so much about me. You see, we are a pencil held by God, writing our own story, but also writing the story of the people we reach in our day to day life. Lauren Johnston Duncan is an Auburn native. Not only raised here in Auburn, but practically speaking, Duncan was raised at J&M Bookstore, where her family has been working since 1953. Duncan is most recognized by her big smile, blond hair and colorful sense of style. And although her family roots are buried in Auburn tradition and business, Duncan has
Dietrich, from A4 lege. Niceville.” “Nothing wrong with community college. Tried to get my daughter to go to a community college. I was selfish, I wanted her close by.” There’s a story here, but he’s not telling it. And I don’t have the right to ask. So I don’t. We just watch the game. No more talking. Soon, my wife has arrived. I leave the old man. My wife and I watch the game from a two-top table. I order a hamburger. She orders a salad. We cheer when Alabama makes good plays.
Jackson, from A4
paved her own path locally and beyond in the beautiful world of srt. After having graduated from Auburn University and UAB, Duncan has taught art as far away as Ghana and back here to Auburn in local schools. Today, she teaches art to any child who wants to create and has brought her artistry and passion into her family business at J&M Bookstore through tee-shirts, prints and her own fun, vibrant way of life. Duncan recently created her favorite piece of work yet, her very first published book, “Made to Create,” a colorful, inspiring devotion geared towards young girls, ages 8-12. My young daughter and I were able to get a copy recently and the book is magical. It’s filled with bright colors and artistry, whimsy details, fun and interactive designs and a sweet layout of scripture, leadership and love for young hearts and minds. “This book is years in the making,” Duncan said. “It is my heart and soul and I’m just so very proud of it.” The book is written as a devotion but in the style of a journal. Duncan says she knew she wanted it to be interactive and silly, having easy crafts and And when the middleaged LSU fans begin to make vulgar comments about our boys in red, my wife and I make remarks about their mothers. It’s all in good fun, you understand. My wife didn’t even bring her potato gun tonight. Throughout the game, I have to go potty a few times. I see the old man in the bathroom once. He’s at the sink, washing his face, staring at his reflection. My first thought is that he’s had too many gins, but he’s as sober as a Pentecostal. It’s not the gin. “You okay?” I ask. “Great.” “You sure?” He nods. What else can I do? I leave him and rejoin my
Which brings me back to what went on at the unnamed Alabama university. There, folks in
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“Painting is how the Lord spoke to my soul during that time. Being able to paint and create, paint my prayers, paint my scriptures, changed my perspective,” Duncan said. “It helped me to hear the Lord in a different way and I want to share that with people.” Duncan originally sent a children’s book to her publishing house, Tyndale. They liked it, but suggested she create something geared towards older children. The making of this book, was not even in the plans for Duncan. However, Made to Create came to life and she was able to go to Chicago recently and meet the large team of people that helped to make this possible. “Hundreds of people put this book together. And when I got there, I saw my book cover hanging
writing to make it individual and unique to each girl that reads it. “When I was creating this book I thought, ‘What are the things I want these girls to have written on their hearts?’ And what I want is for them to realize, through the Lords word, that they are fully known and perfectly loved. I want it to help them know their own unique gifts. I want these girls to realize whatever that gift is, it’s from the Lord and that’s what makes them perfectly and uniquely made,” Duncan said. The book is inspired by Duncan’s own past and hardships she has faced both personally and with her husband through infertility. Her art brought her peace and hope in the suffering. Today, her desire is to share the joy she found through creating.
wife. But I watch him all night. He claps for touchdowns. He high-fives the waitress. He orders gumbo and a sandwich. And when LSU beats Alabama like a rented redheaded step-mule, he applauds, then pays his tip and leaves. I congratulate him before he goes. “It was a good game,” he says. “It really was.” “Are you sure you’re okay?” I ask one more time. Now I’m borderlining on being annoying. “I’m fine,” he says. And I know he’s lying. After we pay our bill, we head to our vehicle. Louisiana fans are celebrating in the parking lot. I am carrying half a hamburger in a Styro-
foam box. I don’t know what’s happened to me at this stage of life. When I was young, I used to be able to eat two hamburgers and finish the day like a jackrabbit on Mountain Dew. Now I take leftovers home. I see the man by his car. He’s leaning against his hood. Looking upward at the night sky. Arms crossed. I am disappointed that Alabama lost, of course. In fact, it kills me. I wish my boys in crimson would have won. Especially this game. But for the old man’s sake, and for his late daughter’s, just this once: Go Tigers. Dietrich is a columnist, and novelist, known for his commentary on life in the American South.
charge told students that the dress code was designed “to improve the image of the campus and to help students learn what to wear in the workplace after graduation.” Noble goals. Goals which I personally endorse. I do believe that colleges have a responsibility to tell students that the chance of a decent company hiring someone who walks into an inter-
view dressed Goth or Grunge or some-such is nil, none, nada. But colleges also need to realize that to tell them they can’t is to dare some to try. So let them. And when the company doesn’t hire them, word will get around. (If the company hires them anyway, then they are the company’s problem, not the university’s.) Which is where historians come in.
up next to a Francine Rivers book,” Duncan said. “I just thought that was really cool. I was asked to paint and speak in front of an audience of their executives. It was overwhelming.” The goal now for Duncan is to get her book into the hands of young girls everywhere. “When I was young, I wanted to be a missionary and I thought I had to be a doctor to do that. But as an adult, I realized that the Lord can use art as ministry,” Duncan said. “And If art can be used as kingdom work too, then that means anything can be kingdom work.” “The Lord is creating a story in these young girls. A story unique to them. And when these girls face hard things, they will have something to go back to,” Duncan added. “God is in all
things. He is true and He is still real.” Duncan says she has learned a lot about slowing down and having patience in the making of this book. She gives all the credit to Tyndale and to the Lord for creating something way beyond her imagination. “The Lord can do more than we can think or imagine. This book is better than I would have imagined,” Duncan said. “It’s bigger than I would have imagined. It’s even for bigger people. It’s just incredible. The Lord made this happen and I’m just grateful he wanted to use my ‘pencil.’” You can purchase ‘Made to Create’ locally at J&M Bookstore or nationwide at Amazon, Books-AMillion and Tyndale online. The bookstore is located at 115 S. College St.
Hodge, locked away until and unless a trial proves them innocent. The logical answer is clear. But our country doesn’t work that way. And the consequences are devastating. However, let’s not forget the reality. Let’s not skim over where the blame lies. This sorry excuse for a human being is an adult and has been for years. He has had free will to do good or to do evil. And he has chosen evil every step of the way. People will speak of compassion and forgiveness, as they should. But let’s not make the mistake of confusing compassion
for a lack of consequences. Let’s not assume forgiveness means assigning blame to others for the deeds this man’s hands have done. There is a place for living, walking, breathing nightmares – locked away from the light and from every other living person. Let’s put this man there and leave him to find his redemption in the dark. 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.
Although unnamed university wants students to make a better appearance in class and at job fairs, apparently someone reminded code writers of what happened to codes in the past. That someone, no doubt, was a historian. And code writers, considering what they were told, let it be known that they will enforce their code with “gentle encouragement” rather than
“strict edict.” Which is to say they won’t enforce it at all. Which is just what any historian worth his or her salt would advise – and one there probably did. Once again, we historians prove our worth. Jackson taught history at Jacksonville State University and is an op-ed and editorial writer for The Star. He can be reached at hjackson@jsu.edu.
from A4
Opelika E vents, Society, & Food
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
• Nov. 13 - The Color Purple, The Musical at the OPAC • Nov. 16 - James Spann visits the Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library • Nov. 21 - SZLACHETCKA and Sarah Aili at The Sound Wall • Nov. 23 - Red Clay Highway Gravel Grinder
Plan menus, get organized for Thanksgiving weekend Ann Cipperly’s
Southern
Hospitality
W
ith Thanksgiving a couple of weeks away and Auburn having three home games in a row this month, take time to plan menus and get organized to enjoy spending time with family and friends. Getting organized and preparing some dishes ahead will prevent being stuck in the kitchen with a stack of pots and pans while everyone else is having a good time. While the holidays can be happy times for some, there are many in our community with broken hearts from losing loved ones and others who are trying to rebuild their homes from the
freeze well. Be sure they are properly wrapped. Wait until the dish is cool or chill first. Once the dish is cold, cover the top with plastic wrap and then completely cover the dish, top and bottom with heavy-duty foil, sealing the ends tightly. I find it is easy to double recipes to have one with dinner and the other one for the freezer. Include a spinach, corn or sweet potato casserole on your dinner menu. Double the recipe and freeze the other one for Thanksgiving or to share. Sometimes I will bake a pan of sweet potatoes to serve with dinner and use
tornadoes. Plan ahead to prepare extra to share with those who are hurting this season to show that we are thinking of them, praying and love them. To get organized, go through your recipes and select family favorites to prepare and make a detailed grocery list. Pick some recipes that can be prepared ahead of time and frozen. I know this can be difficult when you work, but try making a dish to freeze while preparing dinner or pick a weekend afternoon to cook and freeze dishes. Casseroles, breads, dressing and cake layers
Ellis Paul returning to AuburnOpelika area on Dec. 1, will perform at The Sound Wall Special to the Opelika Observer Ellis Paul returns to the area for the first time in almost 20 years on Dec. 1, a collaboration between Auburn’s Sundilla Concert Series and The Sound Wall in Opelika. The show will take place on Dec. 1 at The Sound Wall (located at 605 Ave. B, across the street from Auburn Bank). A troubadour, a singer/songwriter, a folky, and a storyteller --all are fair labels for Paul, but they do not quite suffice. Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Woody Guthrie and
Paul James Taylor are listed among his influences, and their spirits seem to occasionally grace his work. With an acoustic guitar in hand, he weaves intimate, provocative and romantic tales of lives that were obviously
witnessed by a mosttalented voyeur. Based in Massachusetts, Paul has been called the quintessential Boston songwriter more than a few times and has garnered the
Photo by Ann Cipperly Baked Cheese Torta is a colorful and delectable appetizer to prepare ahead to serve before Thanksgiving dinner. The cheesy spread is topped with peppers, green onions, sliced olives and chopped tomatoes. The torta is also tasty to serve for tailgating at one of the upcoming Auburn Tigers football games.
the leftovers to assemble a casserole to freeze. Years ago when my parents were living, I would have the entire family for Thanksgiving and Christmas, which was about 36 or more people. I would prepare the cornbread dressing, vegetable casseroles, breads and some desserts ahead and freeze. Other desserts would be made a day or two ahead. I would have everything cooked ahead except for
the turkey. I got tired of making the gravy at the last minute, so I started baking a smaller turkey the day before. I made gravy with the drippings and stock made from boiling the giblets with onions and celery. On Thanksgiving, the gravy was ready and just needed to be reheated. This also assured there would be plenty of meat if the 20-plus pound turkey was not enough. Leftovers are always great for sand-
wiches too. The Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes will save a lot of last minute preparation. The potatoes can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Friends have told me that it freezes well. Along with the turkey, southern cornbread dressing is a star attraction at the Thanksgiving dinner. While some families See Cipperly, page A11
Drew, Ellie Holcomb to perform at The Gogue Center in Auburn on Feb. 27, 2020 Special to the Opelika Observer Make your way to the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center for an evening with Drew and Ellie Holcomb on Feb. 27 from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Drew and Ellie Holcomb are a husband and wife Americana duo from Nashville, Tennessee. Shortly after their marriage in 2006, the couple began touring together with Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors.
Ellie and Drew Holcomb The band has supported many national touring acts including Ryan Adams, The Avett Brothers, Don Henley and Willie Nelson. Ellie is no longer
a touring member of The Neighbors and has found success in a solo career as a Christian singer-songwriter. Her albums As Sure As The Sun and Red See Holcombs, page A9
See Paul, page A8
Book your Holiday Party with us! We offer full service off site catering, delivery or pick up options for events, and private dining events at our Opelika location.
Visit our website niffersplace.com/catering for private dining room requests and event menus, or contact cater@niffersplace.com.
Monday-Saturday 11 AM - 8 PM
pelika O Observer Guitar wizard Alvin Youngblood Hart visiting Waverly’s Standard Deluxe on Nov. 22 A8
Nov. 13, 2019
Special to the Opelika Observer Enjoy an evening with Alvin Youngblood Hart at Waverly’s Standard Deluxe on Nov. 22. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. at the venue’s “Little House.” Known as a “musician’s musician,” Hart’s praises have been sung by everyone from Bob Dylan to guitar gods Eric Clapton and Mick Taylor. He was born in Oakland, California in 1963 to a family
Paul, from A7 recognition and awards to back up that claim, including a shelf full of Boston Music Awards. Since coming onto the scene in 1993 with his independent debut, “Say Something,” he hasn’t slowed or weakened as a performer or a writer. Spending two-thirds of most years on the road has helped Paul perfect both crafts, with a lot
of post-WWII Mississippi transplants. He started playing the guitar in 1977. In addition to his vast musical repertoire, Hart is also an electronics technician, a talent he picked up after seven years of active-duty service in the U.S. Coast Guard. His knack for quick thinking repairs on the road has earned him nicknames such as “The Garage Guerrilla” or “The Rock N Roll MacGyver” from fellow musicians. After two decades
on the road, Hart continues to delight audiences worldwide, whether as a solo performer or with his well-loved band Alvin Youngblood Hart’s Muscle Theory. The show is a bring-your-own-beer event. However, no glass is allowed in the venue. Tickets are $22 and must be purchased online at www.standarddeluxe.com. No physical tickets will be mailed, so guests must select “Will Call” in the shipping
of practice on-stage and a lot of people whose stories he retells in song. In fact, his 1994 album “Stories” proved enchanting enough to secure him a deal with Rounder Records and a national following of dedicated fans. Many albums have followed; earlier this year “The Storyteller’s Suitcase” became number 20. Paul’s songs have also been heard in movies, movies that you just might have seen, such as “Me, Myself and Irene”
Hart information at checkout. For more informa-
(starring Jim Carrey), “Shallow Hal (starring Jack Black and Gwyneth Paltrow) and “Hall Pass” (starring Owen Wilson). Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is invited to bring their favorite food or beverage. Showtime is set for 7 p.m. A limited number of advance tickets can be purchased for $20 each online at www.sundillamusic.com. Admission will be $25 at the door.
Rebecca Rice Cell: 334-703-0801 rebecca@johnrice.info
tion, visit the venue’s website or call 334826-6423. The venue
is located at 1015 Mayberry Ave. in downtown Waverly.
pelika O Observer
A9 Nov. 13, 2019
Red Clay Brewing Company organizing bike-racing event on Nov. 23 Special to the Opelika Observer Get your biking gear ready for the Red Clay Highway Gravel Grinder on Nov. 23 for the second race in Jo Dirt Racing’s “Southern Brewery and Distillery Tour.” The race will start and end at the Red Clay Brewing Company in Opelika. Participants have the choice between a 30 and 60-mile route.
Participants will recieve: -a race shirt -a custom finisher growler -a free beer (if 21 and over) -race-branded beer available -post-race food -custom awards -a raffle ticket for sponsor swag and -the chance to win a series raffle prize. For more information or to register, visit www.bikereg. com/red-clay-high-
way. Participants can pick up their packets on Nov. 22 at the brewery and are invited to stay for some fun brews and live music. To learn more about the brewery, like and follow its social media pages or visit www.redclaybrewingcompany.com. It is located at 704 N. Railroad Ave. in downtown Opelika.
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
The Ten Tenor’s ‘Home for the Auburn, Opelika mayors gather Holidays’ performance slated and read proclamations to kick off ‘Farm City Week’ on Tuesday for Dec. 10 in Opelika Special to the Opelika Observer The Ten Tenors “Home for the Holidays” performance at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts will be Dec. 10 at 7:30 p.m. Count on The Ten Tenors to sleigh-ride audiences through a musical winter wonderland that captures the heart of the holidays for the whole family. With festive favorites and modern holiday hits, patrons will want to bundle up and get to their seats on time for one of the Arts Association of East Alabama’s alltime audience favorites returning to the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts.
The Ten Tenors The Ten Tenors have headlined more that 2,000 concerts around the world, sold more than 3.5 million concert tickets and become renowned for their dynamic, choreographed performances and skillful ability to seamlessly transition from operatic arias to soulful ballads through to chart-topping pop
and rock songs. Tickets range in price from $20 to $130 and can be purchased via www. eastalabamaarts.org. The venue is located within Opelika High School at 1700 Lafayette Parkway. For more information, call 334-7498105 or visit the organization’s website.
Dylan LeBlanc to visit Waverly’s Standard Deluxe on Dec. 11 Special to the Opelika Observer
Enjoy a show by Dylan LeBlanc at the Standard Deluxe on Dece. 11. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Little House. LeBlanc is a singer-songwriter from Muscle Shoals. After a rough stint in his early twenties, he enlisted the help of long-time friend Ben Tanner of FAME studios for help in "writing a new life for himself." In 2015, he released “Cautionary Tale,” the first album in this new stage of his life and career. That same year, he toured with
Holcombs, from A7 Sea Road have both topped the iTunes Christian chart. Drew
LeBlanc British singer George Ezra before embarking on his own solo tour throughout the South, Midwest and New England. His newest album, “Renegade,” was released in June of this year. “‘Renegade’ is about people I grew up with. When Katrina happened, all these kids were coming in from New Orleans and they Holcomb still tours nationally with Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors and their most recent album, Dragons, is their most critically acclaimed release yet. An Evening with Drew and Ellie
were all like gangsters, straight off the street. I ran with people like that. Those were my friends and I always got along really well with them,” LeBlanc said in a Rolling Stone interview. The concert is a bring-your-own-beer event. No glass is allowed in the venue. Tickets are $15 and must be purchased online via www.standarddeluxe.com. No phsyical tickets will be mailed, so guests must select "Will Call" in the shipping information at checkout. To learn more about LeBlanc, visit www. dylanleblanc.com.
Holcomb is a special engagement event, allowing the Holcombs to collaborate once again. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased via goguecentertickets.auburn.edu.
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The annual “Farm-City Breakfast” was held Tuesday morning at the Lee County Extension Office, which serves as a kickoff for FarmCity Week. Citizens, farmers and local dignitaries were all in attendance.
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pelika Observer O
A10 Nov. 13, 2019
Miss Alabama USA and Miss Alabama Teen USA to be grand Marshals at Opelika Christmas Parade scheduled for Dec. 7 Special to the Opelika Observer Kelly Hutchinson, Miss Alabama USA and Kate Watts, Miss Alabama Teen USA, will be the Grand Marshals for the 2019 Opelika Christmas Parade. Sponsored by Allstate-Prewett Insurance Group, the parade will begin at 10 a.m. in downtown Opelika on Dec. 7 with a weather date of Dec. 8 at 3 p.m. The Opelika Christmas parade is one of the first of many Christmas events in Opelika. This year’s theme is a celebration of Alabama’s
Bicentennial. Each float will take on the spirit of Christmas of a bygone era spanning two centuries. While the Christmas Parade Committee suggests that people arrive early for the best parking, there will be special parking available on South Railroad Avenue between 8th and 9th Streets for people with disabilities. Parking permits can be picked up Dec. 2 to 5 directly at the Chamber office, which is located at 601 Ave. A. The parade route will start at the Lee County Courthouse
and end at the corner of 2nd and 7th Avenue. The parade will follow 9th street up and turn right onto South Railroad Avenue, then turning right onto 8th Avenue. The procession will head forward, and then make a left onto Avenue B and a left at 7th Street towards the parade end point. For more information on the parade, contact Parade Coordinator Vivian Anthony at 334-745-4861 or visit www.opelikachamber.com. For more information on Christmas events in Opelika, visit www. opelikachristmas.com.
24th annual ‘Cookie Walk’ on Dec. 7 at Grace United Methodist Church to benefit the Auburn-Opelika Habitat for Humanity By Morgan Bryce Editor More than 30,000 cookies will be available for purchase during the 24th annual "Cookie Walk" to benefit the Auburn-Opelika Habitat for Humanity on Dec. 7 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Grace Unit-
ed Methodist Church. The event is hosted and sponsored by the WeHelp Coalition of Churches, an Auburn-Opelika area nonprofit consisting of 12 churches that help constructs affordable housing for those in need and is a primary sponsor of the local
habitat. According to Executive Director Mark Grantham, the event helps generate enough funding each year to help construct one new home, with proceeds from this year's Cookie Walk going to cover the cost of Home #69 which is projected to be
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built early next year. "Each year, this group helps us raise tens of thousands of dollars through cookie sales, then they'll turn around and be the builder on one of these houses. These cookies build homes," Grantham said. "We're thankful for the partnership with them and it's a nice way to enjoy an early kickoff the holiday season." Grantham estimated that each year's Cookie Walk attendance can range from hundreds to more than 1,000
Across from Lowe’s, another convenient location to serve our customers
AuburnBank’s Tiger Town Kroger location has
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer visitors, who often purchase an amount of cookies equivalent to
an entire ton. In addition to cookies, there will be free coffee and cookies available for visitors, live entertainment, photo opportunities with Santa and raffle drawing to win a handmade quilt by members of the Cotton Boll Quilt Guild, with tickets costing $2 for one or $5 for three. For more information, call 334-7452123, like and follow their Facebook page or visit www.auburnopelikahabitat.org. The event venue is located at 915 E. Glenn Ave. in Auburn.
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pelika O Observer Cipperly, from A7 prepare their grandmother’s dressing recipe, Dee Dee Harper’s grandmother Nonnie’s recipe for cornbread dressing was lost among hundreds of her handwritten family recipes. Some of the recipes call for proportions such as “fresh churned butter the size of a hen’s egg.” While many families
Recipes Baked Cheese Torta Sally McCormick Three 8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened 3 eggs 1½ cups grated Cheddar cheese 4 oz. can chopped green chilies, drained 1 cup sour cream Toppings: Chopped yellow, orange or red pepper Sliced green onions Chopped tomatoes Sliced ripe olive Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Beat cream cheese and eggs at medium speed until well blended. Mix in shredded cheese and chilies. Pour into a greased spring-form pan. Bake 40 minutes or until top is puffed. Spread sour cream over top. When cool, loosen torta from rim of pan and refrigerate. Top with assorted toppings; chill until ready to serve with crackers or in wedges. Nonnie’s Cornbread Dressing Dee Dee Harper Southern Cornbread Can prepare day ahead. Cornbread ½ cup fat ((bacon drippings are the old southern way, but real butter or vegetable oil will work) 2 cups plain cornmeal ½ cup flour ½ Tbsp. sugar ½ Tbsp. baking powder 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. baking soda 2 cups buttermilk 2 eggs, lightly beaten 2 Tbsp. melted butter Preheat oven to 450°. Put fat into seasoned 9-inch cast iron skillet; place in oven. Heat until oil is very hot but not smoking; remove pan from oven. In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and baking soda. Stir in the eggs. Gradually add buttermilk by ½ cups until consistency of thick cake batter. Add half of fat from skillet, stirring only until just mixed. Pour batter into hot skillet (with fat) and return to the oven. Reduce temperature to 400°. Bake until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into center will come out clean. Invert cornbread onto a large plate and cut into wedges. Dressing 9 or 10-inch cast iron pan of Southern Cornbread or can use pkg. mix ½ loaf white bread 1-2 large sweet onions, chopped 3-4 stalks celery, chopped (use tops too) Chicken stock- from fresh stewed bone-in
A11 Nov. 13, 2019
rely on grandma’s dressing recipe, Harper’s grandmother Nonnie’s recipe for cornbread dressing was lost for years among the hundreds of handwritten family recipes. Some recipes are nearly 200 years old and call for proportions such as “fresh churned butter the size of a hen’s egg.” Harper is sharing the recipe and the various options for making the dressing, as well as her recipe for Rosemary Turkey. To assure a roast turkey
is moist, let it rest 15 to 30 minutes, depending on size, before carving. Otherwise, all the juices will run out, making it dry. Green beans are a popular side for Thanksgiving. When Janet Bartlett was church hostess at Trinity United Methodist Church, one of her most popular dishes was her Sweet and Sour Green Beans. They are embellished with bacon and onions and slowly roasted for an hour, then refrigerated overnight and
reheated when ready to serve. Along with having menus, grocery lists and recipes together, get dishes and table linens ready. Polish silver if you are using any. Don’t forget to check spices to be sure they are not outdated. Organize the pantry to have ingredients easy to find, and be sure you are not running low on sugar, flour, baking powder (use aluminum free), baking soda and other staples. When planning center-
pieces, look to the autumn landscape in glorious hues of gold, orange and crimson. Gather an array of natural materials along with pumpkins, pears, apples, nuts and other seasonal elements for creating a stunning Thanksgiving table. Provide a soft glow for dining with an assortment of candles in hurricane shades and votives in sparkling crystal holders. Following are recipes from some of the area’s good cooks. You may want
to select a few of these tried and true favorite recipes for your menu this year. With so many heartbreaking losses in our community, Thanksgiving is a time to reflect and set priorities for spending more time with family, as we realize every day is a gift. What is on the menu is not as important as being with family and friends around the table, holding hands while giving thanks. Cipperly can be reached at recipes@cipperly.com.
chicken with skin is best Butter or chicken fat Salt, pepper and poultry seasoning to taste Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Tear cornbread into bite sized pieces; cube and lightly toast white bread and add to cornbread. Sauté onions and celery in a small amount of butter or chicken fat until limp and add to bread mixture. Add chicken stock and stir until liquid is absorbed but not mushy. Add salt, pepper and poultry seasoning to taste. Bake in open roaster for 1 to 1½ hours, stirring often. Dressing is done when top is lightly toasted and all liquid absorbed. Serves at least 12 hungry guests. Oyster Dressing Add one pint of shucked oysters and liquid the last 30 minutes of cooking time. Dee Dee’s Options Add into mixture before baking any or all of the following ( but not with oysters.) ½-1 lb. roll sausage, fried and thoroughly drained 1-2 cored apples, chopped ½ cup golden raisins
Bacon (to taste), fried crisp and crumbled Sauce: ½ cup vinegar ½ cup sugar 3 Tbsp. bacon fat* Layer beans with onions and bacon (in amounts desired); repeat layers. Pour sauce over beans. Cover and bake in a preheated 325 degree oven for 1 hour. Refrigerate overnight and reheat to serve. Easy to double or triple. *If you have health concerns, vegetable or olive oil can be substituted.
or thigh and roast based on weight, according to wrapping directions. Allow to rest for 15 minutes or longer, depending on size, before slicing to allow juices to set.
½ cup dried cranberries Fresh pear slices Boil apple cider in heavy, large saucepan until reduced to ½ cup, about 25 minutes (watch closely as it will burn quickly just before it is ready). It will be thick and syrupy. Transfer to medium bowl and chill until cold. Add vinegar, onion, mustard and poppy seeds. Gradually whisk in olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss greens, cheese, pecans, and fruits in bowl with enough dressing to coat. Dressing makes enough for several salads and keeps well in refrigerator.
ous amount of sugar. Repeat with a second layer using plenty of butter and sugar. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes, basting with melted syrup every 10 minutes.
Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes 5 lbs. potatoes (Yukon Gold are great) 1 cup sour cream 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened 2 tsp. salt or to taste Black pepper or white pepper to taste, optional ½ stick or more butter Peel and cook potatoes; drain well. While potatoes are cooking, beat sour cream and cream cheese until fluffy. Mash potatoes with butter and then gradually add hot mashed potatoes to cream mixture; beat until fluffy. Add seasonings to taste. Spoon into greased casserole dish. Store in refrigerator until ready to bake. Can be made a day or two ahead. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes or until thoroughly hot. Sweet and Sour Green Beans Popular dish from former church hostess Janet Bartlett 3 cans cut green beans, drained Chopped onion to taste
Fresh Cranberry Relish Jenny Clary 1 large orange, quartered with peel 1 lb. cranberries 1 ½ cups white sugar ½ cup apricot preserves 8 oz. can crushed pineapple, drained 2 Tbsp. lemon juice Finely chop orange in a food processor. Combine cranberries and sugar in a heavy saucepan. Cook and stir over medium heat until cranberries begin to pop, about 10 minutes. Transfer cranberries to a bowl; add apricot preserves and mix until melted. Stir in pineapple, lemon juice and chopped orange. Chill until ready to serve. Rosemary Turkey Dee Dee Harper Whole, fresh hen turkey 1 stick unsalted butter, 1/2 melted 8-10 fresh clipped sprigs of rosemary, about 4-inches long Salt and pepper Wash and prep turkey, saving giblets for gravy and dressing. Pat very dry. With very sharp paring knife, cut slits between skin and meat. Make 2 incisions in each thigh, 3 on each side of the breast, and elsewhere as you like. Incisions should be only as wide as the width of your knife, about 3 inches long under skin. Slide in a sprig of rosemary as far as possible and ½ pat of butter into each incision. Salt and pepper the outside of the turkey and cavity thoroughly. Place bird in roasting pan on rack. Drizzle melted butter over bird, especially breast. (Butter will likely congeal on contact.) Roast breast side up. Insert thermometer in meatiest part of breast
Pumpkin Crunch Pam Hope 15-16 oz. can solid pack pumpkin 3 eggs 1½ cups sugar 12 oz. can evaporated milk 4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice ½ tsp. salt 1 pkg. yellow cake mix 1 cup chopped pecans 1 cup melted butter Whipped topping Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease bottom of 9 x 13 pan. Combine pumpkin, eggs, sugar, evaporated milk, pumpkin pie spice and salt in a large bowl. Pour into pan. Sprinkle cake mix evenly over top. Top with pecans. Drizzle with melted butter. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until golden. Serve with whipped topping. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows Joan King Dilworth 6 cups cooked fresh sweet potatoes 2 cups sugar 1 cup butter or margarine 2 eggs ½ cup milk 1 tsp. salt 2 tsp. vanilla Miniature or regular marshmallows Beat warm sweet potatoes and remaining ingredients except marshmallows until smooth. Pour into greased 3-quart baking dish. May prepare ahead and refrigerate overnight. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes; add marshmallows and bake an additional five minutes. Autumn Salad with Pears, Pecans and Apple Cider Dressing Dressing Jenny Jenkins 4 cups apple cider ¼ cup apple cider vinegar 2 Tbsp. grated onion 2 Tbsp. Dijon mustard 1 Tbsp. poppy seeds 1 cup extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper Salad Two 5 oz. bags mixed salad greens 12 oz. soft goat cheese, crumbled 1½ cups pecans or walnuts
Fresh Apple Cake with Brown Sugar Icing Sara Jane Tatum 1 cup cooking oil 2 cups sugar 3 eggs, well beaten 2 ½ cups plain flour 1 tsp. baking soda 2 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. vanilla 3 cups chopped, peeled Red Delicious apples 1 cup chopped pecans Cream the oil, sugar, and eggs well. Add vanilla. Sift dry ingredients together and blend into creamed mixture. Fold in pecans and apples. Pour into a well-greased Bundt pan and bake at 3250 for 45 minutes. Remove cake from pan and cool. Ice with Brown Sugar Icing. Brown Sugar Icing 1 cup light brown sugar ½ cup butter ¼ cup evaporated milk 1 tsp. vanilla Bring first 3 ingredients to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat immediately and stir in vanilla. Beat with a spoon until the icing is cool. Pour over the cake. Candied Yams Joan King Dilworth 6 to 8 large red sweet potatoes, baked slowly 2-3 hours Butter Sugar Grease a 3-quart casserole. Slice peeled sweet potatoes in a single layer in pan; slice butter to put on top of potatoes and sprinkle with gener-
Chocolate Pecan Pies Mary Barnes Newman 1 stick butter or margarine, melted 1 cup sugar 1 cup light corn syrup 4 eggs, beaten 3 Tbsp. bourbon, optional 6 oz. pkg. semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 ½ cups chopped pecans Two 9-inch piecrusts Combine butter, sugar, corn syrup, eggs and bourbon. Divide chocolate chips and pecans between the two piecrusts. Pour filling into piecrusts. Bake at 350 degrees in the middle of the oven for 40 to 45 minutes.
Food Ratings Highway 80 Barn Restaurant 25250 U.S. Highway 80 Opelika Score: 100 Outback Steakhouse 2115 Pepperell Parkway Opelika Score:99 Guthrie’s 505 2nd Ave. Opelika Score: 98 Captain D’s 1800 Opelika Road Auburn Score: 97 Backwater BBQ 5330 Lee Road 379 Salem Score: 95 Veggies To Go 1650 S. College St. Auburn Score: 95 China Palace 2450 Alabama Highway 14 Auburn Score: 95 El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant 814 Geneva St. Opelika Score: 91
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Letter to the editor: November is ‘National Hospice and Palliative Care Month’
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ovember is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, and I would like to take this opportunity to encourage our community members to have conversations with their family and doctor about the care that they would want to receive if they were facing a serious illness or one
that is life-limiting in nature. This conversation has many names, advanced care planning or goals of care are just a few. No matter what you call it, the essence of the discussion is what matters. What is your goal if you become ill? Is there a procedure that you would not want to
life, comfort and support to patients and families, they are different. Palliative care focuses on reducing stress, pain and other symptoms of a serious illness while you are getting treatment. Hospice care focuses on alleviating symptoms when aggressive treatment of the
have done? Talk about it, get information and make your wishes known. This is helpful to medical staff so that you can help direct your care. If you are facing a life-limiting illness, there are services to help you: palliative care and hospice care. While both focus on improving quality of
disease is not the goal of care. Comfort is the top priority. Both focus on what makes us whole—mind, body and spirit—and a team helps during this time to support both patient and family. While this time can be difficult, it affirms the belief that it is important to make ev-
ery moment of life as meaningful as possible, from the first days of a life-limiting illness to the last. Patty Baggett Executive Director Compassus Hospice and Palliative Care In partnership with EAMC and Bethany House Auburn, AL
OBITUARIES Mickey L. Kooken A memorial service for Mickey L. Kooken of Opelika, Alabama, was held Nov. 7, at 1 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home in Opelika, AL. Visitation was Thursday at 12 prior to the service. Bill Holmes officiated. Mr. Kooken passed away in his home after a brief illness on Monday, November 4, 2019. He was born November 30, 1952 in Shreveport, Louisiana. Mic was an avid traveler in his early years, served in the Army, enjoyed his love for fishing, huntJohn William McFarland, Sr. John William McFarland, Sr. of Opelika was born to the late Olin and Rosa Morgan McFarland in Auburn, Alabama on July 5, 1936 and passed away at his home on November 11, 2019. He was 83 years old. He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Ann Ridley McFarland; sister, Lee Helms, and brother Marion McFarland. He is survived by his daughter, Beverly Ann Lisle (Wayne); son, John W. "Beau" McFarland, Jr.; granddaughter, Katie Lisle Grizzle (Corey); great grandchildren, Rex Grizzle, Dean Grizzle, and Curtis Grizzle; little buddy, Judson Cherry; brother, Thomas McFarland
Robert A. Meeks Robert A. Meeks of Auburn was born to the late Berry Edward and Kimbrough Adair Meeks on October 12, 1927 and passed away at East Alabama Medical Center on November 11, 2019. He was 92 years old. Mr. Meeks was Charter Member of Grace United Methodist Church in Auburn, and was a 31 year employee of the United States Postal Service. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Elizabeth Anne Segrest Meeks; brothers, Harold Meeks and his wife Jo, and William "Bill" Meeks. He is survived by
ing, cars, and motorcycles. Mic was an electrician at Uniroyal for over thirty years. He is survived by his wife Mary, his parents Mac and Louella Kooken of Opelika, AL, daughter Laurie, aunts, uncle, many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to a charity of choice. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed. To send flowers to Mr. Mickey Lynn Kooken’s family, please visit our floral section.
as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members. Pall Bearers: Wayne Lisle, Corey Grizzle, Gary Phelps, Jeff McFarland, Curtis "Rabbit" Adams, Billy Hollingsworth; Honorary Pall Bearers, Rex Grizzle, and Judson Cherry. Visitation will be held Thursday, November 14, 2019 in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon. Funeral service will be held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home at 12:00 noon Thursday, November 14, 2019 with Reverend Larry Doster officiating. Interment will follow at Garden Hills Cemetery.
his children, Robert E. Meeks (Colleen), Andrew D. Meeks (Gail), and Janet M. Pettus (Dennis); grandchildren, Laura E. Pettus, and Noah F. Meeks; sister-in-law, Sylvia Meeks, as well as 10 nieces, and nephews. Visitation will be held Friday, November 15, 2019 in the Parlor at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home from 12:45 until 1:45 p.m. Funeral service will be held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home Friday, November 15, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Jay Woodall officiating. Interment will follow at Auburn Memorial Park.
To have your loved one’s obituary published in the Opelika Observer, email us at: editor@opelikaobserver.com or call 334-749-8003 End-of-life options, services available to veterans through the VA Special to the Opelika Observer The VA will pay a burial allowance up to $1,500 if the veteran's death is service connected. VA also will pay the cost of transporting the remains of a service-disabled veteran to the national cemetery closest to the home of a deceased that has available gravesites. In such cases, the person who bore the veteran's burial expenses may claim reimbursement from VA. They will pay a $300 burial and funeral expense allowance for veterans who, at time of death, were entitled to receive pension or compensation or would have been entitled to compensation but for receipt of military retirement pay. Eligibility also is established when death occurs in a VA facility or a nursing home with which VA contracted. Additional costs of transportation of the remains may be reimbursed. There is no time limit for filing reimbursement claims of service-connected deaths. In other deaths, claims must be filed within two years after permanent burial or cremation. The VA will pay a $150 plot allowance when the veteran is not buried in a cemetery that is under U.S. Government jurisdiction if the veteran is discharged from active duty because of disability incurred or aggravated in line of duty, if the veteran was in receipt of compensation or pension or would have been in receipt of compensation but for receipt of military retired pay, or if the veteran died
while hospitalized by VA. The plot allowance is not payable solely on wartime service. If the veteran is buried without charge for the cost of a plot or interment in a state-owned cemetery reserved solely for veteran burials, the $150 plot allowance may be paid to the state. Burial expenses paid by the deceased's employer or a state agency will not be reimbursed. Burial Flags The VA provides an American flag to drape the casket of a veteran and to a person entitled to retired military pay. After the funeral service, the flag may be given to the next-ofkin or a close associate. VA also will issue a flag on behalf of a service member who was missing in action and later presumed dead. Flags are issued at VA regional offices, national cemeteries and post offices. Burial in National Cemeteries VA Cemeteries Burial benefits in a VA national cemetery include the gravesite, opening and closing of the grave and perpetual care. Many national cemeteries have columbaria for the inurnment of cremated remains or special gravesites for the burial of cremated remains. Headstones and markers and their placement are provided at the government's expense. Veterans and armed forces members who die on active duty are eligible for burial in one of VA's 114 national cemeteries. An eligible veteran must have been discharged or separated from active duty under honorable or general
conditions and have completed the required period of service. Persons entitled to retired pay as a result of 20 years creditable service with a reserve component are eligible. A U.S. citizen who served in the armed forces of a government allied with the United States in a war also may be eligible. Spouses and minor children of eligible veterans and of armed forces members also may be buried in a national cemetery. A surviving spouse of an eligible veteran who married a nonveteran, and whose remarriage was teminated by death or divorce, is eligible for burial in a national cemetery. Gravesites in national cemeteries cannot be reserved. Funeral directors or others making burial arrangements must apply at the time of death. Reservations made under previous programs are honored. The National Cemetery System normally does not conduct burials on weekends. A weekend caller, however, will be directed to on eof three strategically located VA cemetery offices that remain open during weekends to schedule burials at the cemetery of the caller's choice during the following week. Headstones and Markers VA provides headstones and markers for the unmarked graves of veterans anywhere in the world and for eligible dependents of veterans buried in national, state veteran or military cemeteries. Flat bronze, flat granite, flat marble, upright granite and upright
marble types are available to mark the grave in a style consistent with the place of burial. Niche markers also are available to mark columbaria used for inurnment of cremated remains. Headstones and markers are inscribed with the name of the deceased, the years of birth and death, and branch of service. Optional items that also may be inscribed at VA expense are: military grade, rank or rate; war service such as World War II; months and days of birth and death; an emblem reflecting one's beliefs; valor awards and the Purple Heart. Additional items may be inscribed at private expense. When burial is in a national, state veteran or military cemetery, the headstone marker is ordered through the cemetery, inscription, shipping and placement can be obtained from the cemetery. When burial occurs in a cemetery other than a national, military post or state veterans cemetery, the headstone marker must be applied for from VA. It is shipped at government expense. VA, however, does not pay the cost of placing the headstone or marker on the grave. To apply, one must complete VA form 40-1330 and forward it to Director, Office of Memorial Programs (403A), National Cemetery System, Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC 20420. Forms and assistance are available at VA application by calling the director of the Office of Memorial Programs at 1-800-6976947.
F Place your ad here! Email: editor@opelika observer.com Call: 334-749-8003
Hunley Group Lambert Transfer & Storage An Interstate Agent for North American Van Lines 1102 Fox Trail Opelika, AL 36803 745-5706
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n 2 Corinthians 8 and 9, we have a minister to the Gentiles raising funds for Jewish people. That might sound a little strange to us, but it is totally consistent with the biblical principle that we are people first and everything else (all of the adjectives we choose to describe ourselves) is a distant second. That was a truth that needed hearing (and heeding) in the first century and it is no different today. There’s quite a bit of back story in regard to the contribution that Paul gathers from the predominantly Gentile churches for the people of Jerusalem. While Paul and Barnabas were working with the church at Antioch, a prophet named Agabus came up from Jerusalem and predicted that “a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world”
Opelika
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Caring and committed
(Acts 11:28). The Antioch church, which had been started and sustained to a large degree by the church in Jerusalem, responded by sending financial relief through Paul and Barnabas (v. 29-30). Sometime later, the Paul and Barnabas traveled back to Jerusalem. This time, the circumstances weren’t as pleasant. They went there to investigate what the Jerusalem’s church was teaching in regard to the Jewish covenant. Were they teaching that it was something to be bound on Gentile disciples? They learned they were not. Moreover, all agreed that Paul and Barnabas would continue to reach out to the Gentiles and Peter, James and John would reach out to the Jews (Galatians 2:9). These three apostles requested that Paul and Barnabas “remem-
• Pepperell Baptist’s youth program meets on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 7 p.m. This is an evening of prayer, Bible Study and discussion. For more information, contact youth and children’s pastor Ryno Jones at 334-7453108. • Nov. 17 - Lakeview Baptist Church will host Dr. Danny Akin for a “Doctrine of Christ Seminar” Nov. 17. For more informa-
Catch ‘On the Mark’ with D. Mark Mitchell and Jeff Sasser weekday mornings from 7-9 a.m.
Nov. 13, 2019
eligion
By Bruce Green Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika
ber the poor” (v. 10). In the context, this probably has special reference to the poor of Jerusalem. Finally, there’s the incident that occurs at Antioch sometime later. Peter came to Antioch and was eating with the Gentiles (Galatians 2:12). “Eating” in the text is more than consuming food—it is to be understood in the fellowship sense of “you are who you eat with.” That said, Peter was eating with Gentiles disciples who were not observing Jewish dietary laws (why would they?).
Church calendar
ANGLICAN Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd 2312 Center Drive Unit D #758-6749 ASSEMBLY OF GOD Bridge Church 1000 Lee Road 263, Cusseta #742-0144 AME Mount Zion AME Church West Point Hwy #749-3916 St. Luke AME Church 1308 Auburn St. #749-1690 St. Paul AME Church 713 Powledge Ave. #745-6279 Thompson Chapel AME Zion 187 Columbus Pkwy #749-8676 BAPTIST Abundant Life Baptist Church 1220 Fox Run Ave. Suite B #7064421464 Airview Baptist Church 2301 Airport Rd. #745-6670 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave #742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. #745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd #745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. #745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. #745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. #742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr #749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. #887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika
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rate apostle (he wasn’t one of the Twelve, he couldn’t get along with Peter, Barnabas or John Mark, and had no base of operations). It also possibly explains why they have been dragging their heels in regard to the contribution (8:10-11). Whatever might be the case, this much is clear—Paul didn’t back off from his commitment to the people of Jerusalem one bit. Though he was labeled by some there as a traitor and a renegade (see Acts 21:21ff), he remained completely dedicated to their welfare. That more than anything explains why we have a minister to the Gentiles raising money for the people of Jerusalem. May his tribe increase! You can find more of Bruce’s writings at his website: atasteofgracewithbrucegreen. com.
Verse of the Week
tion, call 334-8877094. • Dec. 6 - First Baptist Church Opelika will be holding a “Parent’s Evening Out” for parents of children with disabilities. To register or for more information, call 334-7455715. The church is located at 301 S. 8th St. 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
But then something happened. James and some others came to Antioch and Peter suddenly stopped eating with the Gentile believers. Paul rebuked him for his hypocrisy, and we’re told that even Barnabas was led astray (v. 13). Not long after this, Paul and Barnabas part ways (Acts 15:36ff). Luke tells us the issue had to do with John Mark, but I know of no reason why we have to take that as the only reason for their splitting. It’s possible that the incident at Antioch also weighed in on their decision. It’s also possible that the church in Antioch was swayed by the people from Jerusalem so that they sided with Barnabas and Paul was left without a sponsoring church. All of this helps explain why the Corinthians would have viewed Paul as something of a second-
CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. #749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy #742-9721 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St. #745-5181 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. #745-6015 Church of Christ 2660 Cunningham Drive CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd #749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place #7496432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court #745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. #749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. #745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 Opelika, Ala. 36804 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. #826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. #742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A #745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 #745-0460 Pierce Chapel United Methodist
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9 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
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A14 Nov. 13, 2019
Community Calendar: Events around town
• Nov. 18 - Hull Properties / Auburn Mall Pop Ups - Ribbon Cutting
Ongoing: • Village Friends/Village Values is a nonprofit organization that supports seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes as they grow older. For info or to schedule a presentation to your group, call 334-2094641. For the website, Google “village friends village values.” • The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR chapter is appealing for sweaters, jackets, trousers, shirts and socks, women’s clothing, soft soap in individual containers, shaving supplies, disposable razors, denture cleanser, toothpaste and toothbrushes, DVDs, games, books and magazines to take to veterans at the CAVHCS in Tuskegee. The Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter regularly visits veterans living in assisted living, the homeless domiciliary and psych (trauma) ward in Tuskegee. Donations are tax deductible and will be much appreciated. Pick up is provided. Please call Linda Shabo at 8876659 or at 256-3071449. Mondays: • The Lee County Voters League meets the first Mondays of the month at 6 p.m.
at Bethesda Baptist Church located at 201 S. 4th St. Opelika • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary meets the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at 910 West Point Parkway in Opelika. • The Opelika Community Band practices from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Auburn High School band room. Everyone is welcome, amateurs and professionals alike. • The Touched by Suicide Support Group meets the first Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information, contact Deborah Owen, EAMC’s director of Psychiatric Services at deborahowen@ eamc.org. • The fourth Monday of each month, a community grief support group meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary; everyone is welcome. For more information, call 8261899 or 502-0216. • T.O.P.S (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight loss support group, meets every Monday from 5:30 to
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 com-
mercial 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 to 8 p.m. every Tuesday. Instructor is Cody Wayne Foote. For more info, call Diane at 749-6320. • The East Alabama Old Car Club meets every first Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Monarch Estates Clubhouse, located at 1550 East University Drive, Auburn. A program of interest to the old car enthusiast is presented. Car ownership is not required. • The Opelika City Council meets the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. Meetings are preceded by nonvoting work sessions that typically begin between 6 and 6:45 p.m. • Every second Tuesday, a country, gospel and bluegrass music jam session is held at Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Beauregard. The event is free and open to the public. Those who play an instrument should bring it and plan to join in. The jam session is held from 6 to 8 p.m. 8685 Alabama Highway 51. • A Grief Support Group meets at Oak Bowery United Methodist Church Tuesdays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. for anyone
Upcoming Events • Nov. 12 at 5 p.m. - Kids eat for 99 cents at Niffer’s • Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. - Brains and Brews Trivia at Red Clay Brewing • Nov. 12 at 5 p.m. - Burger Night with half-pounder burgers and a side for $6.99 at Niffer’s • Nov. 12 at 5 p.m. - Wine Down Wednesday at The Bottling Plant Event Center • Nov. 13: Build your own burger and side starting at $5 at La Cantina • Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. - Trivia Night at
Niffer’s • Nov. 14 at 5 p.m. - Fajita Night at The Bottling Plant • Nov. 13 - The Color Purple, The Musical at the OPAC • Nov. 15 at 9 p.m. - The Mix Tape at The Corner Bar • Nov. 16 at 9 a.m. - James Spann visits the Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library • Nov. 16 at 6 p.m. - “Fire Required: Lessons from Longleaf Pine Ecosystems” talk at Red Clay Brewing • Nov. 17 at 9 a.m. - Gravel Sun-
day at James Bros Bikes • Nov. 19 - The November meeting of NAMI East Alabama, the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), will take place at 7 p.m. on Nov. 19 at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, located at 714 E. Glenn Ave. in Auburn. NAMI supports families dealing with mental illness through mutual support, education and advocacy. There will be a time for sharing. The public is invited.
dealing with the pain of loss and feeling the need for support on their journey as they attempt to bring order and wholeness back into their life. Attendance and participation is strictly voluntary for any and all sessions. There are no fees or charges involved. The church is located on U.S. Highway 431 – eight miles north from Southern Union State Community College and Opelika High School. For more information, contact Bill Parker at 459-0214 or 706-5189122. • The Auburn Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol meets every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Regional Airport. The Civil Air Patrol is a nonprofit organization that is Congressionally chartered to be the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force and focuses on three missions: aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services. For more information visit www.auburncap. org or find the organization on Facebook. • East Alabama Gem & Mineral Society meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m. Meetings are held at the Covington Rec. Center, located at 213 Carver Ave. in Opelika. Wednesdays: • The second Wednesday of each month, a Community Grief Support Group meets from 10 to 11 a.m. at the EAMC Health Resource Center. No reservations are necessary. For more info call 8261899 or 502-0216. • The John Powell American Legion Post 18 and Auxiliary hosts Bingo every
Wednesday at 6 p.m. • Every Wednesday is Wine Down Wednesday at the Bottling Plant Event Center from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays: • American Legion Auxiliary Unit 152 meets the first Thursday of every month at 11 a.m. at Niffer’s Place, 917 S. Railroad Ave. in Opelika. • The Teal Magnolias Gynecological Cancer Support Group meets the second Thursday of every third month at 6 p.m. at EAMC Health Resource Center, 2027 Pepperell Parkway. For more information on the Teal Magnolias, email tealmagnoliasAL@ yahoo.com or find them on Facebook. • Opelika-Auburn Newcomers’ Club provides a variety of programs for the betterment of the Auburn/Opelika community to assist women transitioning into the area or to help women adjust to recent lifestyle changes. The club meets on the third Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon at various local restaurants. Please call or email Cheri Paradice at 334-737-5215 or cheri.paradice@ gmail.com for more information or luncheon location of the month. • T.O.U.C.H. Cancer Support Group meets the third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at EAMC’s Health Resource Center. This is a support group for people living with any type of cancer or their families and friends. Call 334-528-1076 for more information. Email editor@opelikaobserver.com to place your community events.
Lee County Relay for Life group seeking volunteers for coming 2020 events Special to the Opelika Observer Lee County Relay for Life organizers are holding an informational meeting this Thursday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the East Alabama Medical Center’s Education Center, which is located at 2027 Pepperell Parkway. There, more information about the event and how people can help or volunteer will be discussed. Cancer doesn’t take a break and neither do Lee County residents who are fighting for a cure. Lee County’s main event
is April 17, 2020, but teams are already working to ensure that residents have the resources they need to fight cancer. It is never too late to find out how one or one’s business can be involved! Find out more online at www.relayforlife.org/ leeal or on Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/leecountyrelay/ or by contacting event co-chairs Randy Causey at 334703-6621, Debra Causey at 334-703-5188 or ACS Community Development Manager Kalyn Frederick 334-538-9508.
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City of Opelika holds Veterans Day services, honors area veterans
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The city of Opelika honored area veterans on Monday. The day started off with a breakfast at Niffer’s in downtown Opelika, followed by a service in front of City Hall and special reception following at the Museum of East Alabama. “Some people forget Veterans Day altogether, but that’s certainly not true in our community. Veterans are our heroes and should never be forgotten. I think it’s important for us to pass down veterans stories from generation to generation so they will forever be remembered,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller during his address at Monday’s service.
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Cookie Walk Time Dec. 7, 2019
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You are cordially invited to share some of your Fabulous Baked Goodies at the The 24th Annual Cookie Walk
The Cookie Walk is an annual Fund Raiser sponsored by
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If you would like to volunteer with set up on Friday, Dec. 6 or Event day Dec. 7, please, email mark.a.grantham310@gmail.com
We would Love to feature your Delectable Sweets along with an array of Beautifully decorated Christmas Cookies donated by neighbors throughout our community. Please contact me should you like to join in the FUN and Festivities for this very worthy cause… Please deliver Handmade Cookies to ~
Grace United Methodist Church ( Auburn, 915 E. Glenn Ave., next to KROGER )
For more information Deliveries on: Friday, Dec. 6th pm pm and details visit www. (around back in kitchen / fellowship hall) auburnopelikahabitat.org Questions ? …Please contact: Donna Roberts and Auburn Opelika Cookie Walk Committee Chairperson Habitat for cell: 334.329.4879 Humanity on Facebook.
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COMICS
“Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it.” ― Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables
Opelika Schools & Sports Inside • opelika schools • lee county schools • community sports
Lee County Board of Education will meet Nov. 12 6 p.m. at the Central Office 2410 Society Hill Road Opelika, AL 36804-4830 Friday’s Football Schedule Opelika v. St. Paul’s @ 7 p.m. Auburn at McGill-Toolen @ 7 p.m.
Trinity Christian School places third in national soccer tournament in October
On the Mark By D. Mark Mitchell
Opelika High School’s Breckin Gould places ninth in state cross country meet
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pelika High School freshman Breckin Gould finished ninth in the AHSAA State Cross Country Meet in Oakville’s Indian Mounds Park. Gould ran the 5,000 meters in 19:47.82 to lead all Opelika runners in the meet. The remaining girls finished as follows, Paola Torres (51st), Jhenny Hoover (134th), Jul’ecia Beard (155th) and Susan Gaston (158th). The boys were led by Chas Brewer’s 25th-place finish with a time of 17:13.64. The remaining team’s results were: Michael Hart (116th), Evan Goodman (138th), Alberto Cordova (141st), Winston Tufts (166th), Ben Estes (202nd), Jake Walters (209th), Kadiri Gates (218th) and Zalen Shaw finished (229th). Congratulations to all participating in the State Meet. BULLDOGS SMASH YELLOW JACKETS 48-20, ADVANCE IN PLAYOFFS Opelika High football team defeated
McAdory 48-20 last Friday in first round of the AHSAA football playoffs. The Bulldogs fell behind 14-0 with 11 minutes left in the first half before scoring 42-straight points to pull away. The Yellow Jackets took advantage of a few turnovers to score the game’s first two touchdowns. The Bulldogs settled down and dominated the remaining two and half quarters. Erik Watts led the Bulldogs offensively, rushing for 198 yards and scoring four touchdowns. Will Beams caught a pass from Jamius Mitchell (his second TD pass in the game) for one yard and a TD. Stinson returned a fumble three yards for a score and Malik Finley ran two yards for the last score of the game. Baker Rowton made 7-of-8 PAT. Opelika advances to the second of the AHSAA playoffs and will host St. Paul’s Friday night at Bulldog Stadium, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. See Sports, page B5
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Special to the Opelika Observer Trinity Christian School would like to thank all the generous supporters who sponsored their varsity boys soccer team for the National Association of Christian Athletes Soccer Tournament in Dayton, Tennessee on Oct. 22 to 26. Led by coaches Dick Hayley and Coach Calvin Kinney, Trinity won third place in Division III. Back row left to right: Sawyer Waldrep, Ezra Creel, Caleb Van Horn, Daniel Shropshire, Josh Dean, James Middleton, Coach Calvin Kinney, Gabe Frazier, Ben Livingston, Chase Tucker and Ethan Kyles. Front row left to right: Grey Hayley, Gabriel Boone, Caleb Dean, Zach
Rumfelt, Curt Johnson, Coach Dick Hayley, David Kuykendall, Clay
Odom, Graham Mason and Gabriel Caballero. Senior Clay Odom
was named to the AllTournament Team for his performance.
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Opelika uses 42-0 run to beat McAdory 48-20 last Friday
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Auburn University to host ‘South’s BEST Robotics Competition Dec. 7 and 8
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.
Special to the Opelika Observer The South’s BEST Robotics Competition will be Dec. 7 and 8 at Auburn University. BEST stands for Boosting Engineering Science and Technology, and is a national program with fifty local competition sites in eighteen states. It is administered by BEST Inc., a 501c3 non-profit organization, that sets curriculum and competition standards. The mission of BEST is to inspire students to pursue careers
in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through participation in a competitive robotics program that fosters knowledge, teamwork, and communication. A major tenet of the program is that it is free to schools; there is no cost for robotics materials nor to enter a team. Each year, middle and high school student teams are tasked with building a robot to compete against other schools in that year’s challenge. Each challenge is based on
an educational model. The robotics competition is a high-energy sports-like environment but good sportsmanship is essential. Student-driven robots compete against the challenges of the game, not other robots. Each year’s game theme and playing field is revealed in mid-September. Teams are given six weeks to design and build their robot before entering their local competition. For more information, visit www.southsbest.org.
Junior running back Eric Watts was selected as the Opelika Player of the Week. In Friday’s 48-20 win over McAdory, he rushed for 198 yards on 12 carries for three touchdowns.
IT’S THE OPELIKA WAY.
GO DAWGS! #myOpelika • #beOpelika www.opelika-al.gov 2018 observer
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
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‘Loosen Up, Lighten Up Day’ is Nov. 14
Beth Pinyerd
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uring this autumn season with school, after-school functions, holiday activities, etc., we get so busy that we don’t take time to stop and relax as families. Tomorrow, Nov. 14, is “Loosen up, Lighten Up Day.” The purpose of this day is to remind folks of the benefits of laughter. I have covered the benefits of laughter with older people in
an earlier article but this article focuses on the benefits of laughter in children. I love to rock babies in the church nursery and see them smile and hear them just plain old laugh with a gleam in their eyes! They smile and cry in order to communicate with us, but laughter is another avenue of infant communication. As an early childhood teacher, I love
to hear the sound of children genuinely giggle and laugh. Their sweet, innocent laughter is contagious! It is the best medicine for children and adults. Laughter lifts our depressed moods and eases stress. A chuckle or hearty laugh seems to provide a promotion for good self esteem in children. When children can find humor in their mistakes just by “Laughing it off” then this triggers confidence to try again! From the first simple smile at 1 to 3 months, to social smiles at 4 months, laughing at being tickled at 6 months, to laughing at playing “peek-a-boo” at 8 months, laughter starts early in our lives. Children ages 1, 2 and 3 begin to express themselves verbally, so they begin
to laugh at playing with words! To we parents and teachers, it might sound “silly” in our adult world, but remember, this is a child’s language and social development. By age 4, a child is able to understand, verbalize and laugh at simple jokes like “Knock, Knock, who’s there?” I love to see the different cultures in our community preschool classes. In teaching children from different countries, laughter seems to be a universal language in trying to communicate. Some of the benefits of laughter are when a child is happy and expresses laughter, they experience security which helps them sleep well. Reading bedside stories can make them laugh, reduce anxious thoughts and stimulate good sleep.
A good laugh when teaching young children makes them more mentally alert to the lesson being taught, as well as encouraging creativity. With young children who experience separation anxiety when going to preschool, daycare or other places, laughing with your child before separating from them will help in the transition from parent to teacher or caregiver. It gives them a positive start in their day! A good laugh helps our bodies overall. Reap the benefits of “Loosen up, Lighten up Day” by having a good laugh wherever you are! Beth Pinyerd has taught young children in the Early Childhood Classroom for 34 years as well as outreaching to the elderly in intergenerational settings. She
has taught and outreached in the schools in the Opelika Community and Baldwin County Community. She holds a master’s degree in early childhood education as well as a bachelor’s degree in family and child development both from Auburn University. Her husband is the late Carl Pinyerd and she has one son, Gus Pinyerd who has taught her so much about learning. Classroom Observer is here to serve the community in sharing the wonderful teaching programs in our local public schools, private schools, and homeschools. The column is provided to enrich the education of our children, youth, and families. Classroom Observer welcomes educational news, school news, pictures, and events by e-mailing her at donnapinyerd@att.net.
A note to Gen. Z and Millennials: Sharp turns are in your future
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ven “experts” in periodization, that is, dividing a subject into historical eras for analysis, disagree on when Generation Z began or when the Millennial era ended. I accept that Generation Z began in the late 1990s and ended in the 2010s. Millennials started as a generational term in 1980 and stopped by the late 1990s. Arguments are bubbling up on what to call the next generation. My ideas of the Post-Starbucks or Post-Red Bull Generation have not caught on. Most undergraduate college and university students today are in Generation Z. A smaller percentage of Millennial students are also pursuing their first degrees. For both set of students, having at least one practical minor, such as in Spanish or business, is a sound idea. If you combine a job that pays you
enough by your standards, but that you enjoy because it mimics one of your hobbies, your post-college work life is very likely to please you. According to MyMajors.com, it might hurt your chances if potential employers notice you have a lot of majors and minors. You may be regarded as unfocused and fickle and the employer may ask why you didn’t just get a master’s degree instead of a second bachelor’s degree or a string of unrelated courses. “Job shadowing” is a way to see firsthand what jobs are really like. On visits, students can find out from employees how they got a job in that field. The website says, “there are many paths to most careers, just as there are many careers to be had from one major.” I am impressed that so many students are not cynical due
By Greg Markley to college bills and uncertainty about their later lives. Below, I offer observations on two of my friends who made very poor choices and two others who crafted nice lives for themselves despite tough conditions. As Isaac Bashevis Singer, the Polish-American who won a Nobel Prize for Literature, wrote: “A story to me means a plot where there is some surprise. Because that is how life is - full of surprises.” I was bewildered when two of my friends with college degrees greatly disappointed me.
The first was an engineer who lived in a rich village in New England. Police arrested him and his son for possession of child pornography. The father said he only kept the materials to someday confront his son, but both served a year and are now on the Sexual Offender list. He was so close to my family that he gave a eulogy at my brother’s funeral. Some people really shock us! As for my second college friend, I was perplexed with the bad news that my former Ph. D. art professor lost a civil case. She was accused of selling fake art and the case made The New York Times. She paid $468,000 plus damages and attorney’s fees to the owner she bamboozled. Despite the big errors of these two, I am delighted that two other friends of mine—both college grads—faced
Looking Ahead. We share with our neighbors a common goal—the health, education and well-being of people statewide. Poarch provides over 9,000 jobs to Alabamians, pays millions in state taxes each year, and makes charitable contributions reaching nearly $9 million annually. We are proud to be a partner in Alabama’s progress.
tough circumstances but with aplomb and grace made the best of it. Generation Z and Millennials will very likely face tough challenges too; personally and professionally. May this never mean legal problems for any of you! In the late 1970s, I was close friends with Margaret, who was co-editor of our college newspaper with me. I also knew her friend Donald and attended their wedding in 1978. Both achieved what they dreamed of as undergrads. Meg became a writer and poet and Don was a professor of engineering. They had to make choices they didn’t anticipate in college: He made tenure and this compelled them to stay in the cold and remote city they disliked. Many Alabamians say they will never decide to live in a cold area—but be prepared for complex choices.
Now my friends are in their 70s with health issues. Still, they enjoy retirement. They have a son in a distant city with his wife and two kids. My friends aim to move closer to see their grandchildren grow up. “Life is like an onion; you peel off one layer at a time and sometimes you weep, “said Carl Sandburg (1878 – 1967) a famous American poet and author. Gen Z and Millennials will face an array of triumphs and tragedies, surprises and regrets, and more. Keep your friends handy, but only the best ones - not those who become criminals or art thieves. Greg Markley has lived in Lee County for 18 of the last 23 years. An award-winning journalist, he has master’s degrees in education and history. He has taught as an adjunct in Georgia and Alabama.
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“This project was supported by Subgrant #16-VA-VS-076 awarded by the Law Enforcement / Traffic Safety Division of ADECA and the U.S. Department of Justice.” The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/program/exhibition are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice or grant-making component.”
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Local woman pinned by Christian Women’s Job Corps of Lee County Special to the Opelika Observer “Before coming to CWJC, I felt like I had no direction. I didn’t know what I wanted to do. All I knew before coming was how to turn on a computer.” That was participant Amy Butler before completing nine weeks of classes at Christian Women’s Job Corps. After Butler saw a billboard for CWJC, she contacted Director Neeley Caldwell to see if the local ministry designed to help women in need was a fit for her. Butler was accepted into the program and began her classes in Computers, Communications, Budgeting, Health and Wholeness, Leadership Fundamentals, I Can, I Will, I Did, Living from the Inside Out, Career Direction, Money Smart, Bible Study and more. At Butler’s pinning ceremony on Nov. 7,
she expressed very different sentiments. “Now, I can go to different sites on the computer. I can calculate on Excel and do headings and columns, add and do formulas. In Word, I can keyboard, use bullet points, and I can set up a page correctly,” Butler said. As a participant, Butler was “guided” by volunteer, instructor and Board Member Toddy Savage who worked with Amy weekly on making an “Action Board.” Together, they established and monitored personal and career goals identifying specific steps or “actions” to be taken as they worked toward reaching those goals. On pinning day, Butler reflected on her experience at CWJC, “As the days progressed, I learned some new things about myself: I learned that I enjoy speaking in front of
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer people and have good eye contact. I am thankful for the love and compassion that everyone has shown me. I will be better
able to rejoin the work world now because I’m more confident in myself and with the skills CWJC has provided me. I am grateful to be
NOW OPEN
a graduate of Christian Women’s Job Corps,” Butler said. For more information on becoming a participant, volunteer, or
supporter of Christian Women’s Job Corps® of Lee County, contact Caldwell at 334-8210591, 334-524-5529 or neeley@cwjclc.com.
Indoor shooting range is open to the public
2195 FIRST AVENUE • OPELIKA
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Opelika Crush teams enjoy successful 2019 season
Photos submitted to the Opelika Observer Pictured are the Opelika Crush U15 and U19 teams, which both turned in strong showings this season. In a press release submitted by the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department earlier this month, the Crush a record six teams qualify for championship tournaments in their respective divisions, emerging with five finalists and two overall champions. The U15 boys and girls squads finished as finalists in their respective divisions; the U19 boys defeated the Tuscaloosa Soccer Club in the final, winning 4-1; the U16 boys fell 3-0 to the Shoals Soccer Club in the final; the U19 boys won the championship game 1-0 over Madison, Alabama’s River City United squad and the U19 girls, who finished third in their respective tournament with a consolation victory over the Briarwood Soccer Club.
Opelika Parks and Rec’s trampoline and tumbling team turns in strong showing at state tourney Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Pictured left are members of the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department’s Trampoline and Tumbling team that competed recently at the 2019 Merino Cup held in Huntsville. According to information provided by the Merino Trampoline Gymnastics Academy, which served as the event host, the tournament was open to all USA Gymnastics Member Clubs. Several Opelika team members, pictured left, finished with mulitple medals and represented the city well. For more information about OPR and the programs it offers the community, visit www.opelikaal.gov/341/Parks-Recreation.
Sports, from B1 OPELIKA v. ST PAUL’S Opelika will host St. Paul’s High School Friday night in the second round of the AHSAA Class 6A State football playoffs. The Saints (8-3) defeated Sidney Lanier 20-6 last week, setting up a repeat of last year’s second-round game. The Bulldogs won 38-20 in the only meeting between the two schools. The two teams have no common opponents, the Saints lost their opening of the season to UMS– Wright 18-13. Their other two losses were to Saraland (28-20) and Daphne (53-42). They have scored 341 points and allowed 250 points. St. Paul’s is a 5A team playing in the 6A classification because of the implementation of the “competitivebalance factor.” This is a formula adopted by the AHSAA Board several years ago in an effort to balance
the field with private schools playing in the AHSAA. If the Saints lose, they will return to the 5A classification next year. St. Paul’s is coached by Steve Mask, who has compiled an incredible 87-20 record in eight years, including a state title in 2014. Opelika appears to have the better team on paper and the schedules could be deemed equal except for Auburn and Central, two good 7A teams on the schedule. Fans can buy tickets for $8 each at Bubba’s Medicine Shop and Victory Design until noon Friday. The OHS ticket office opens at 5 p.m. Fans can listen to the Opelika v. St. Paul’s game on 97.7 Kicker FM, online at kickerfm.com and on the iHeartRadio App. GIRLS BASKETBALL OPENS 1-2 The OHS girls basketball team played in the Hazel Green “Tip-off classic” last weekend at Hazel Green. The Lady Bulldogs finished 1-2, beating Tuscaloosa County and losing to Hazel Green
and G.W. Carver. Opelika opened with a 90-77 loss to Carver. Claire Worth scored 28 points, LaDajah Hughley scored 16 points while Kaitlyn Bryant, Ananda Hughley and Haley Sanders added 11 points apiece. The girls beat Tuscaloosa County 64-40 in the second game. Hughley scored 19 points to lead Opelika, La’Dajah added 14 points and Haley Sanders scored 11 points. Defending state champion Hazel Green beat OHS 4526 in the final game. Hughley scored nine points to lead the team. The OHS boys and girls basketball teams play at Beauregard on Nov. 7, with the girls starting play at 5 p.m. FRESHMAN BASKETBALL The Opelika Freshman basketball team lost a 50-49 heartbreaker to Eufaula 50-49 last week. Isaiah Knight scored a game-high 22 points and teammate Jayvontay Conner and Ja Carr scored 14 and 12 points each, respectively. AHSAA SUPER 7 NEWS
According to sources, the Alabama High School Athletic Association will make a major announcement concerning the future of the Super 7 Football Championship on Nov. 13. The Super 7 Championship has been rotating between Jordan-Hare Stadium and Bryant Denny Stadium for the last 10 years. The current contract expires after the 2020 Super 7 in Tuscaloosa. The AHSAA will announce a new agreement will include Birmingham’s Protective Stadium along with Bryant-Denny and Jordan-Hare stadiums. The cities of Auburn and Opelika, Auburn University and Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau joined the City of Tuscaloosa, the Tuscaloosa Sports Council and the University of Alabama formed a team 12 years ago in an effort to lure the Super 6 championship to our stadiums. The AHSAA announced the change to leave Legion Field in 2009. The new agreement will cover 12 years with an option after
year six to re-evaluate cost and other unknowns at this time. The Super 7 will be at Jordan-Hare Stadium in 2022, 2026, 2028 and 2032. BryantDenny will host 2023, 2025, 2029 and 2031. Birmingham will host 2021, 2024, 2027 and 2030. The Super 7 championship will not be hosted by the team hosting the Iron Bowl and this is two fewer rotations for Tuscaloosa and Auburn-Opelika. This year’s Super 7 will be held in Jordan-Hare Sta-
dium Dec. 4 to 6. The Unified Game will kick off the event at 3:30 p.m. on Dec. 4 followed by the 7A championship game. On Dec. 5, the 3A championship game will be played at 11 a.m., 1A at 3 p.m. and 5A at 7 p.m. On Dec. 6, 4A will play at 11 a.m., 2A at 3 p.m. and 6A at 7 p.m. D. Mark Mitchell is sports director for iHeart Media, Alabama Dixie Boys State Director and vice president of the A-O Sports Council.
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Southern Union to celebrate homecoming festivities on Nov. 16 at Wadley campus Special to the Opelika Observer Southern Union State Community College invites alumni and friends of the college to join in its homecoming festivities on Nov. 16. The Bison basketball teams will take on Wallace-Selma
with the ladies tipping off at 2 p.m. followed by the men at 4 p.m. A highlight of the afternoon will be the presentation of the homecoming court and crowning of the homecoming queen which will take place during halftime of the men’s game. Mem-
bers of the homecoming court are: Tori Brown (Wadley), Maggie Edwards (Woodland), A’niah Ford (Alexander City), Hannah Peoples (Childersburg), Kylee Ray (Wedowee) and Madelynn Sheppard (Wedowee). For the first time, Southern Union will
crown a homecoming king at the festivities. Candidates for king are: Corey Adams (Valley), Tucker Allen (Woodland), Samuel Leva (Lanett), Jake Lipham (Ashland), Oliver Mills (Valley) and Billy Turner (Wedowee). The queen and king
will be chosen by popular vote among the students. Homecoming is sponsored by the SU Student Government Association. Numerous activities and Spirit Days are planned for the week prior to the game. The Southern Union Alumni Association
and Student Government Association encourage all active alumni, former students, and friends of the college to join in this year’s homecoming festivities. For more information, visit www.suscc. edu. The Wadley campus is located at 750 Roberts St.
Tommy Tuberville visits Tickets now on sale for Auburn Kiwanis last week Southern Union's annual Christmas concert Dec. 3 through 6 Special to the Opelika Observer It’s the most wonderful time of year at Southern Union State Community College, as the music department prepares for its annual Christmas concert Dec. 3 through 6. Shows will be held in Brazeal Auditorium on the Wadley Campus at 7 p.m. each night. As always,
the show will feature holiday favorites and dazzling dance and light displays. Advanced concert tickets may be purchased at a cost of $10 by contacting the Southern Union Business Office at 256395-2211, extension 5113. Tickets may be purchased with a credit card, check or cash, but all tickets must be paid for at the
time of purchase. Southern Union State Community College is the second oldest two-year college in the state and is one of a select few community colleges to offer a comprehensive program in the fine arts. For more information, visit www.suscc. edu. The school is located at 750 Roberts St.
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Pictured left to right are Cecil Yarbrough (program coordinator), Coach Tommy Tuberville (speaker) and Walter Northcutt (President of the Kiwanis Club of Auburn).
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Opelika Middle School hosts Veterans Day program, guest speaker Commander Timothy Aja last week
Photos submitted to the Opelika Observer
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Beauregard High School’s AP Physics class participated in ‘pumpkin chunkin’ contest’ last Friday
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Photos submitted to the Opelika Observer Beauregard’s AP Physics class participated in a "pumpkin chunkin’ contest" Friday to determine who could launch a pumpkin the greatest distance. The students worked in teams and could design and build catapults or trebuchets. The project studied the transfer of energy and projectile motion. Lazenby Farms graciously donated pumpkins for the event and Krispy Kreme provided certificates to the winners. This was a record-breaking year with a 204-foot launch by the winning team consisting of senior class members Charles Gilmer, Noah Gooden and Joseph Perrella.
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Set Your Mind on Island Time.
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B10 Nov. 13, 2019
PUBLIC NOTICES IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN RE ESTATE OF: MAMIE KOON, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT LETTERS TESTAMENTARY of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 25th day of October 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness my hand, and dated this the 24th day of October, 2019. CRAWFORD S. MELTON, Executor Legal Run 10/30, 11/06 & 11/13/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF VONCILE BIRCHFIELD, An Adult in need of a Conservator. Case No.: 2016-B-014 NOTICE OF PARTIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that Stephen Ray Birchfield, Conservator of Voncile Birchfield, an incapacitated person, has filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, his accounts, vouchers and statements for a Partial Settlement of the Conservatorship of Voncile Birchfield. A hearing has been set for the 12th day of December 2019, at 10:00 a.m., Central Time, in the Court Room of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama. Done this the 31st day of October, 2019. Bill English, Judge of Probate Legal Run 11/06/19, 11/13/19 & 11/20/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF TEDDY RAY BIRCHFIELD, An Adult in need of a Conservator. Case No.: 2016-B-013 NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that Stephen Ray Birchfield, Conservator of Teddy Ray Birchfield, an incapacitated person, has filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, his accounts, vouchers and statements for a Final Settlement of the Conservatorship of Teddy Ray Birchfield. A hearing has been set for the 10th day of December , 2019, at _11:00 a.m., Central Time, in the Court Room of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama. Done this the 30th day of October 2019. Bill English, Judge of Probate Legal Run 11/06/19, 11/13/19 & 11/20/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA STATE OF ALABAMA COUNTY OF LEE IN RE: The Matter of FLYNNE OWEN MITCHELL Case No.: 2009-A-107 NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that Thomas C. Mitchell, Conservator of Flynne Owen Mitchell, an incapacitated person, has filed in the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, his accounts, vouchers and statements for a Final Settlement of the Conser-
vatorship of Flynne Owen Mitchell. A hearing has been set for the 12th day of December 2019, at 1:00 p.m., Central Time, in the Court Room of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, 215 South 9th Street, Opelika, Alabama. Done this the 31st day of October, 2019. Bill English, Judge of Probate Legal Run 11/06/19, 11/13/19 & 11/20/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT FOR LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: BAYARD RODNEY BECK, SR., Deceased Case No.: 2019-C-038 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to Susan T. Beck, Personal Representative on the 25th day of October 2019, 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. Susan T. Beck Legal Run 10./30, 11/06 & 11/13/19
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF SYLVESTER ROBINSON, JR, DECEASED PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY Take Notice that LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said deceased having been granted to Steven Lee Robinson on the 24th day of October, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims againts said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Steven Lee Robinson Legal Run 11/06, 11/13 and 11/20/19
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Opelika will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 204 S. 7th Street, Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. PURPOSE The purpose of said Public Hearing will be to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the Development Plan for Wyndham PUD. The Development Plan for Wyndham PUD was approved by the City Council as required by Section 8.18(n) of the Zoning Ordinance. At said Public Hearing all who desire to be heard shall have the opportunity to speak for or in opposition to the adoption of the following ordinance: ORDINANCE NO. ______ AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR WYNDHAM PUD BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. Findings. The City Council has determined and hereby finds and declares that the following facts are true and correct: “(a) Wyndham Properties, LLC heretofore submitted to the City a Development Plan for a planned unit development (“PUD”) entitled “Wyndham PUD” consisting of approximate-
ly 640 acres. (b) Pursuant to Ordinance 109-05, adopted on June 8, 2005, the City Council approved said Development Plan for Wyndham PUD and amended the official Zoning Map of the City to designate the zoning classification of PUD for approximately 640 acres (c) Wyndham PUD is a mixed-use development located south of Hall Avenue, west of Marvyn Parkway and east of Society Hill Road. (d) Wyndham PUD has been partially developed with an industrial area on Wyndham Industrial Drive and two (2) residential sections consisting of 416 lots. (e) Opelika Gateway Properties, LLC, has heretofore submitted to the City a proposed Amended Development Plan for the area of Wyndham PUD located south of Gateway Drive and west of Marvyn Parkway. (f) The Amended Development Plan provides for single-family homes, townhomes, apartments, commercial uses and over 115 acres of open space. (g) Amenities offered to residents include a swimming pool with pavilion, a dog park, play areas and large open space areas. (h) The Planning Commission of the City of Opelika heretofore conducted a public hearing on the proposed Amended Development Plan. (i) The Planning Commission recommended approval of the Amended Development Plan for Wyndham PUD. (j) It is advisable and in the interest of the City and in the public interest that the Amended Development Plan be approved. Section 2. Approval of the Amended Development Plan. The Amended Development Plan for Wyndham PUD as submitted for review is hereby approved and confirmed as required by Section 8.18(n) of the Zoning Ordinance of the City. Section 3. Retention of copies of the Amended Development Plan. Copies of the Amended Development Plan shall be maintained in the offices of the City Clerk, City Planner, City Engineer, and Building Official and shall be open for public inspection. Section 4. Repealer. Any ordinance or part thereof in conflict with provisions of this Ordinance be and the same are hereby repealed. Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption, approval and publication as required by law. Section 6. Publication. This Ordinance shall be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. Copies of the Amended Development Plan are open for public inspection in the offices of the Planning Department and the City Clerk. All interested persons are invited to attend the public hearing and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matter may be mailed to the City Clerk at P.O. Box 390, Opelika, AL 36803 at any time prior to the public hearing and may be further submitted to the City Council at the meeting and the public hearing. Please contact Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-2083 two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to any disability. WITNESS my hand this the 13th day of November, 2019. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA
Legal Run 11/13/2019
CITY OF OPELIKA NOTICE OF PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARINGS TO: RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA AND ALL OTHER INTERESTED CITIZENS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Opelika, Alabama will hold a regular meeting and will be conducting public hearings on Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. in the Commission Chambers in the Public Works Administrative Building located at 700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama. A Planning Commission work session begins at 2:30 PM. The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public comment on the following: 1. A public hearing on a request by James L. McCrory, authorized representative of John D. Harris, CJCF, LLC, property owner, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Likins First Revision SD, A Resubdivsion of Lot 1-C-1 and Lot 4-A, Block J, Byrd Land subdivision, 3 lots at 708 Avenue D. 2. A public hearing on a request by James L. McCrory, authorized representative of Ernest T, Jean W. and Curtis Whatley, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Whatley Boys subdivision, 2 lots at 7787 Highway 51. 3. A public hearing on a request by Harris Gray, LLC, authorized representative of H. M. Prather, property owner, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Beulah Water Authority subdivision consisting of 2 lots accessed at Lee Road 266. 4. A public hearing on a request by Arthur R. Nettles, authorized representative of C. Thomas Brunson, property owner, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Exit 64 subdivision consisting of one lot at the corner of Anderson Road & West Point Parkway. 5. A public hearing on a request by Arthur R. Nettles, authorized representative of Jim Parker Hotel Group, LLC, property owners, for preliminary and final plat approval of the Opelika Marketplace Development subdivision consisting of 4 lots accessed from Parkway Way. 6. A public hearing on a request by Blake Rice, authorized representative of Pyramid Financial Trust, LLC, property owners, for preliminary plat approval of The Park subdivision consisting of 74 lots at McCoy Street & East Johnson Avenue. 7. A public hearing on a request by Blake Rice, authorized representative for Pyramid Financial Trust, LLC, property owners, for conditional use approval for a 30-unit townhouse development (The Park Townhomes) accessed from East Johnson Avenue. 8. A public hearing on a request by Blake Rice, authorized representative for One Voice Shelter Coalition, Inc., property owners, to amend the conditional use approval for Northridge Project-transitional housing at 801 Morris Avenue: Modify site plan to allow parking on rightof-way. 9. A public hearing on a request by David A. Slocum, authorized representative for J & G Properties, LLC, property owners, for conditional use approval for climate control mini warehouses (410 units) accessed from the 3500 block of Birmingham Highway.
10. A public hearing on a request by Randy Brown and Mike Maher, authorized representative for Cannon Gate Homeowners Association Inc., property owners, for major revisions to the Cannon Gate PUD (Planning Unit Development) Master Plan accessed from Oak Bowery Road and Blackhawk Drive. The revisions concern converting 6.4 acres designated as common area to private ownership. Following the public hearing, the Planning Commission will consider a recommendation to the City Council. 11. (a) A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a request by Bolt Engineering, Inc., authorized representative for Kyle S. Drake, Jr. Living Trust, property owner, to rezone 150 acres accessed at 2015 South Uniroyal Road from a R-1 zoning district to a PUD zoning district. (Tabled at the October 22 nd PC Meeting.) (b) An agenda item related to the rezoning request concerns an amendment to the Future Land Use Map for the 150 acres at 2015 South Uniroyal Road from a low density residential to a planned unit development. If the Planning Commission votes to send a positive recommendation to the City Council to rezone the property, then approval of said amendments to the Future Land Use map is recommended. (Tabled at the October 22 nd PC Meeting.) 12. (a) A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on a request by Ben Jordan c/o Southern Union Community College, authorized representative for J. R. Dudley, property owner, to rezone 3 acres accessed from Dickson Street from a R-3 zoning district to a I-1 zoning district. (Tabled at the October 22 nd PC Meeting.) (b) An agenda item related to the rezoning request concerns an amendment to the Future Land Use Map for the 3 acres accessed from Dickson Street from a low-density residential use to an institutional use. If the Planning Commission votes to send a positive recommendation to the City Council to rezone the property, then approval of said amendments to the Future Land Use map is recommended. (Tabled at the October 22 nd PC Meeting.) 13. A public hearing to consider a recommendation to the City Council on proposed text amendments to the Zoning Ordinance: Amend Section IX Sign Regulations; sub-sections: Section 9.5 General Provisions for Signs, Section 9.10 Sign Permits, Section 9.12 Miscellaneous Provisions, Schedule A Tabled at the October 22 nd PC Meeting. 14. The following agenda items are included as “Other Business” at the November 19th Planning Commission meeting: a. The Planning Commission will review the By-Laws of the Planning Commission to determine if amendments to the Bylaws are necessary. b. Barrett-Simpson, Inc/ Blake Rice, Lafayette Parkway & Freeman Avenue, R-4, GC-S, Condominiums – 22 dwelling units. Conditional use approval will expire on January 28, 2020; Requesting extension of Conditional use approval for six months to July 28, 2020. All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting/public hearings and be heard. Written comments concerning the above matters may be mailed to the Planning Director at
700 Fox Trail, Opelika, Alabama 36801 at any time prior to the meeting/public hearings and may be further submitted to the Planning Commission at the meeting/public hearings. The Planning Commission reserves the right to modify or alter any of the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and to make its recommendations accordingly to the City Council. Please contact Kevin Rice, the City’s ADA Coordinator, at 334-705-5132 at least two (2) working days prior to the meeting if you require special accommodations due to a disability. PLANNING DIRECTOR Legal Run 11/13/19
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF NORA LEE JONES, DECEASED. IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA TO: TERESA JONES BRIEDENBACH NOTICE: On the 23rd day of September, 2019, a certain writing, purporting to be the Will of NORA LEE JONES was filed in my office for Probate by JOSEPH JONES and the 17th day of December, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. was appointed a day for hearing thereof at which time you can appear and contest the same, if you see proper. Given under my hand, the 6th day of November, 2019. Bill English JUDGE OF PROBATE Robert H. Pettey Samford & Denson, LLP P.O. Box 2345 Opelika, AL 3683-2345 (334) 745-3504 Legal Run 11/13, 11/20 & 11/27/19
NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE WHEREAS, default has been made in the terms of the mortgage executed on the 26 th day of February, 2016, by Bennie Lee Edwards, a single man, and Benny Edwards, Jr., a single man, as mortgagors in favor of H. M. Prather, as mortgagee, as recorded in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama, in Mortgage Book No. 4192, at Page 906, and said default continuing, the mortgagee, under power of sale contained in said mortgage will sell at auction for cash to the highest bidder on the steps of the Lee County Courthouse in Opelika, Alabama on Friday, the 20th day of December, 2019, during the legal hours of sale, the following described real estate embraced in said mortgage, situated in Lee County, Alabama, to-wit: “Lot 11, BUDDY ROLL ESTATES, FIRST REVISION, A REDIVISION OF LOTS 11, 12, 13 and 17 OF BUDDY ROLL ESTATES, according to and as shown by that certain map or plat of record in Town Plat Book 18, at Page 82, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama.” THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD ON AN "AS IS, WHERE IS" BASIS, SUBJECT TO ANY EASEMENTS, ENCUMBRANCES, AND EXCEPTIONS REFLECTED IN THE MORTGAGE AND THOSE CONTAINED IN THE RECORDS OF THE OFFICE OF THE JUDGE OF PROBATE OF THE COUNTY WHERE THE ABOVE-
See Legals, page B11
Wednesday, Nov. 20th & Thursday, Nov. 21st, 2019 • 9am
pelika O Observer
1042 Holland Ave • Philadelphia, Mississippi 39350
Day 1: Selling Dump Trucks, Truck Tractors, Specialty Trucks, Trailers, Farm Tractors, 1-ton Trucks, Pickups, Vehicles, Attachments, Misc. Day 2: Selling Dozers, Excavators, Motor Graders, Off Road Trucks, Rubber-tired Loaders, Loader Backhoes, Skid Steers, Compaction Eq., Forklifts, Logging Eq., Service Trucks, Fuel/Lube Trucks & More
Deanco Auction 601-656-9768
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Nov. 13, 2019
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1042 Holland Ave (PO Box 1248) • Philadelphia, Mississippi 39350 Auctioneer: Donnie W Dean, #733, MSGL #835 10% Buyers Premium on the first $4500 of each lot and then a 1% buyers premium and the remaining balance of each lot.
HUGE 2-DAY PUBLIC AUCTION Huge Contractors Equipment & Truck Auction
Wednesday, Nov. 20th & Thurs., Nov. 21st, 2019 • 9am 1042 Holland Ave • Philadelphia, Mississippi 39350
Day 1: Selling Dump Trucks, Truck Tractors, Specialty Trucks, Trailers, Farm Tractors, 1-ton Trucks, Pickups, Vehicles, Attachments, Misc. Day 2: Selling Dozers, Excavators, Motor Graders, Off Road Trucks, Rubber-tired Loaders, Loader Backhoes, Skid Steers, Compaction Eq., Forklifts, Logging Eq., Fuel/Lube Trucks & More
Deanco Auction 601-656-9768 www.deancoauction.com 1042 Holland Ave (PO Box 1248) • Philadelphia, Mississippi 39350 Auctioneer: Donnie W Dean, #733, MSGL #835 10% Buyers Premium on the first $4500 of each lot and then a 1% buyers premium and the remaining balance of each lot.
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Opelika, AL 36801 Legal Run 11/13, 11/20 & Notices, 11/27/19 from B10 DESCRIBED PROPERTY IS SITUATED. THIS PROPERTY WILL BE SOLD WITHOUT WARRANTY OR RECOURSE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED AS TO TITLE, USE AND/OR ENJOYMENT AND WILL BE SOLD SUBJECT TO THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION OF ALL PARTIES ENTITLED THERETO. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. Said sale is made for the purpose of foreclosing of said mortgage, paying the mortgage debt, the costs and expenses of foreclosure, including a reasonable attorney’s fee. Mortgagee reserves the right to bid on the subject property. Said mortgage is a first mortgage and is not junior to another mortgage of record. Said sale is also subject to unpaid taxes or assessments whether of record or not. H. M. Prather, Mortgagee J. Brandon Rice Attorney for Mortgagee 830 Avenue A, Suite A
B11
OTICE OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE UTILITIES BOARD OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the regular November 2019 meeting of the board of directors of The Utilities Board of the City of Opelika will be held on November 21, 2019 beginning at 2:00 PM, in the board room of the Administrative Building located in the W. Warner Williams Water Resource Park, 4055 Water Street, Opelika, Alabama. The meeting agenda will be posted as specified in State law. This is further to advise that the regular scheduled meeting of the Board for November 25, 2019 has been cancelled. DATED this the 28th day of October, 2019. Herbert Slaughter SECRETARY OF THE UTILITIES BOARD OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 11/13/2019
NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE UTILITIES BOARD OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA
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NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the regular December 2019 meeting of the board of directors of The Utilities Board of the City of Opelika will be held on December 16, 2019 beginning at 3:00 PM, in the board room of the Administrative Building located in the W. Warner Williams Water Resource Park, 4055 Water Street, Opelika, Alabama. The meeting agenda will be posted as specified in State law. This is further to advise that the regular scheduled meeting of the Board for December 23, 2019 has been cancelled. DATED this the 28th day of October, 2019. Herbert Slaughter SECRETARY OF THE UTILIYIES BOARD OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 11/13/2019
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT COURT OF PROBATE ESTATE OF JUDY H. REEVES A/K/A JUDITH VONCILE REEVES Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 24th day of October 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred.
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Witness my hand, and dated this the 24th day of October, 2019. JAMES E. REEVES, III Legal Run 10/30, 11/06 & 11/13/19 NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF ROBERT JOSEPH CURTIN, Deceased PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION WITH THE WILL ANNEXED of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 4th day of November, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Probate Judge of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby require to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Melanie Dynese Hill, Administrator Legal Run 11/13, 11/20 & 11/27/19
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF BILLIE WISENER-MEIGS COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 6th day of November, 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, ntoice is hereby given that all persons
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) Public Hearing December 2, 2019 Public Notice The City of Opelika will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, December 2, 2019 at 4:00 p.m., in the Planning Commission Chambers at the Public Works Facility to discuss the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) activity and progress for the end of the year Consolidated Annual Performance Report (CAPER) for program year 2018: October 1, 2018 through September 30, 2019. Discussion about the program and how it benefited Low-Moderate income families in the City of Opelika will be heard and discussed; A Public Hearing will also be held to discuss proposed Amendments to the CDBG Annual Action Plans for PY2017 and PY2018. The proposed amendments will include reallocation of $21,904.87 from PY2017 in unspent funds from Emergency Home Repairs, Homeownership Loan Program, Public Facility, and $4,013.70 from PY2018 from Administration PY2018 budgeted programs. A copy of the CAPER will be available for public review and comment beginning November 22, 2019 at Public Works, City Hall (Mayor’s office) and the Cooper Memorial Library. Copies of the CAPER may be obtained at the public hearing or by contacting the Planning Department. Public participation and comment are invited either in writing or in person and will be accepted for a minimum of fifteen (15) days with the comment period ending on December 16, 2019. Comments may be sent to: Community Development CAPER Citizen Comment 700 Fox Trail Opelika, AL 36801 Or lthrift@opelika-al.gov “In Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Opelika will make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. If you need special assistance to participate, please contact the ADA Coordinator 72 hours prior to the meeting at (334)705-2083.”
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having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness my hand, and dated this the 6th day of November, 2019. DELL HILYER CORLEY Legal Run 10/30, 11/06 & 11/13/19
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GLADYS MOORE, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE NO. 2019-B-090 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF ESTATE Letters of Administration on the Estate of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the 5th day of November, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate of said county, in said State, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby require to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Dwight Lee Moore, Administrator of the Estate of Gladys Moore, deceased Legal Run 11/13, 11/20 & 11/27/19
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOANN BENNETT EDGAR, DECEASED IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA CASE No. 2019- C-053 NOTICE TO CREDITORS TAKE NOTICE that Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to John C. Edgar, Jr., on the 7th day of November ,2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, Alabama. Notice is hereby given
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that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within the time allowed by law or the same will be barred. John C. Edgar, Jr., Executor Legal Run 11/13, 11/20 & 11/27/19
PUBLIC NOTICE: Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliates doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) are proposing to build a 199-foot Monopole Telecommunications Tower. Anticipated lighting application is medium intensity dual red/white strobes. The site location is 1530 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Lee County, AL 36830 (32° 36’ 25.445” North and 85° 26’ 58.254” West). The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Antenna Structure Registration (ASR, Form 854) filing number is A1145917. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS – Interested persons may review the application (www.fcc. gov/asr/applications) by entering the filing number. Environmental concerns may be raised by filing a Request for Environmental Review (www.fcc.gov/asr/ environmentalrequest) and online filings are strongly encouraged. The mailing address to file a paper copy is: FCC Requests for Environmental Review, Attn: Ramon Williams, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554. HISTORIC PROPERTIES EFFECTS • Public comments regarding potential effects on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to:L King, Terracon, 2105 Newpoint Place, Suite 600, Lawrenceville, GA 30043; 770-623-0755;Lauren. King@terracon.com. Legal Run 11/13/2019
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pelika Observer O
B12 Nov. 13, 2019
Like crossword puzzles? Sudoku? Play online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/
This week’s Scramblers Answers: 1. Rabble; 2. Insight; 3. Modest; 4. Median - Today’s Word: ADMITTED
Even Exchange Answers 1. Stack, Shack 2. Wander, Wonder 3. Otter, Utter 4. Plank, Plant 5. Stream, Streak
6. Poster, Potter 7. Scout, Shout 8.Realty, Really 9. Right, Tight 10. Touch, Tough
Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2019
Inside the Statehouse City Clerk R.G. ‘Bob’ Shuman
State Legislature not very good stepping stone
E
arly speculation on the 2020 U.S. Senate race had State Sen. Del Marsh listed as a potential GOP aspirant. He had considered making a plunge into the special election contest for Jeff Sessions’ seat in 2017, but opted out. Most astute observers never thought he would ultimately pull the trigger then, or this year. Unlike others, who have run and won statewide, Marsh is essentially unknown outside of the Capitol and is known only around his Anniston state senate district. His best asset was probably that he had his own money to spend rather than his state senate influence. His name appeared on a Mason-Dixon poll conducted in April with other potential candidates, including Roy Moore, Bradley Byrne, Mo Brooks and Gary Palmer. The name identification of these four ranged from 90% for Moore to 40% for Palmer. Marsh had three-percent name identification. Soon after, he said that he was not going to run. It was a wise decision. He could not have won, and if he could, he would not be as powerful as he is in his current position. As President Pro Tem of the Alabama State Senate, he is very influential. In fact, he has more influence over public policy in his current post than he would as a freshman U.S. senator, especially a 64-year old freshman. Senator Marsh’s abysmal name identification number is no surprise. My observation over the years is that legislators and state senators, re-
By Steve Flowers gardless of how powerful they are in Montgomery, are unknown statewide. The bottom line is the Legislature is not a good stepping stone to higher elected office, especially the U.S. Senate. A very similar scenario to Marsh’s occurred years ago. Then Speaker of the House Seth Hammett of Andalusia was contemplating running for governor. Like Marsh, Hammett’s role as Speaker made him the most powerful of all 140 House and Senate members. He was well liked and very respected among his legislative colleagues. He was and still is beloved in his native Covington County. Well, Hammett’s first due diligence was to conduct a benchmark poll. He commissioned one of the best pollsters in the South and awaited the results. When it came back, the mild-mannered, respected speaker of the Alabama House had three-percent name identification. Hammett’s potential opponent, Lt. Governor Lucy Baxley, had 78% name ID. Seth chose not to run for governor but remain as Speaker. My good friend, Mac McArthur, has been the head of the Alabama State Employees Association for more than two
decades. Not many folks know this, but McArthur is a lawyer and was a prosecutor as a young man. He also was director of the State Ethics Commission for a few years before moving to his current post at ASEA. McArthur had political aspirations as a young prosecutor. He really wanted to be Alabama’s attorney general. While he was ethics chairman, he was planning to run for attorney general. Like Hammett, McArthurs’s first step was to get a benchmark name identification poll. He hired the best pollster in the state. McArthur was confident that he had some significant name identification because he had just gotten some good statewide publicity for some highprofile prosecutions as ethics chairman. The pollster called McArthur soon after the poll and said, “Come on over.” McArthur rushed over to his office and anxiously awaited the results. His pollster began by telling him he had good news. McArthur’s despondent reply was, “the only thing good I see in that is I can run through Winn Dixie butt naked and nobody will know who I am.” Alabama’s greatest and most legendary political icon, George C. Wallace, knew the importance of name identification. During Wallace’s early years the place to stay for all legislators and powerbrokers was the old Exchange Hotel in downtown Montgomery. Wallace would of course stay there during the legislative sessions See Flowers, page B14
Located in Historic Downtown Opelika
334-745-4618
announces retirement via letter at last Tuesday’s council meeting By Morgan Bryce Editor Opelika City Clerk R.G. “Bob” Shuman’s announced his retirement from the city of Opelika via a letter read aloud by Council President Eddie Smith during last Tuesday’s meeting. In the message, Shuman thanked current and previous council members and city administration as well as Opelika’s citizenry for helping make his nearly 32-year career so memorable, which
Shuman will end effective March 1, 2020. “It has been my honor to (serve you all) for almost 32 years. It has been quite a journey with many great memories. Over the
years, the city of Opelika has been blessed with elected officials that always made decisions in the best interests of the city. The leadership of Opelika is in great hands and I look forward to watching the city of Opelika grow and prosper in the future.” In the regular meeting, Jennifer Morgan of Luxury Exposure Events announced that Ward 1 Councilwoman Patsy Jones will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award See Council, page B14
Gov. Kay Ivey announces record number of foster-care adoptions
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Special to the Opelika Observer Gov. Kay Ivey announced last Thursday that, yet again, Alabama reported a record num-
ber of foster care adoptions. In Fiscal Year 2019, there were 731 foster care adoptions, which is an all-time record for the state. That is up from the previous
year’s record of 727 adoptions. The governor celebrated this news with Alabama families and See Ivey, page B14
pelika O Observer
B14 Nov. 13, 2019
ICER discriminates against people with rare diseases By Randall Rutta Special to the Opelika Observer FDA officials approved a record number of rare disease treatments last year. One groundbreaking medicine treats an inherited bone condition that causes intense pain and immobility. Another treats Fabry disease, a genetic condition that can lead to kidney failure or stroke. Breakthroughs like these offer hope to 30 million Americans living with rare diseases. But there’s still a long way to go. Scientists estimate there are 7,000 rare diseases, each of which afflicts fewer than 200,000 people. The majority of these ailments -- 95% -- lack a single approved treatment. Unfortunately, one prominent healthcare nonprofit could undermine research into rare diseases. The group, the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER), analyzes the “cost-effectiveness” of many new FDA-approved drugs, including treatments for rare diseases. Because it relies on flawed
Flowers, from B13 as a young legislator from Barbour County. It was a hotbed of politics and many a political deal was consummated on the premises of the
assumptions, ICER mostly concludes that rare disease treatments aren’t worth the price. ICER hopes that health insurers will use its findings to decide which medicines to cover. If the group’s message - rare disease treatments aren’t worth it - wins the day, drug companies may well stop researching and developing rare disease treatments. And millions of Americans would lose access to life-changing therapies. ICER analyzes drugs’ cost-effectiveness using a metric called a “quality adjusted life year.” A QALY quantifies the cost of providing a patient with 12 additional months of perfect health. Imagine a healthy woman has an incurable -- but dormant -- genetic disease that will kill her almost instantly once it’s activated. If a treatment could delay activation by one year and it costs $30,000, then ICER would say the treatment costs $30,000 per QALY. This metric effectively discriminates against
the elderly, persons with chronic conditions and other sicknesses and people living with disabilities. ICER’s position is that these individuals aren’t in perfect health to begin with. So, the group doesn’t count an additional 12 months of life expectancy as a full QALY. For example, our hypothetical treatment for a genetic disease might still extend a 90-year-old infirm patient’s life by one year, but ICER might count the gain as only 0.5 QALY, due to the perceived lower quality of his/her life. As a result, that same $30,000 treatment would cost $60,000 on a QALY-adjusted basis -- potentially blocking access and affordability for patients. Rare disease drugs are expensive for a reason. It can take more than a decade and $2.6 billion to bring a new medicine to patients. Few experimental compounds even make it out of the lab. Pharmaceutical companies have to charge enough to earn back their development costs. For
common conditions that afflict millions of patients, companies might only need to charge a few dollars per pill to recoup their development costs. By contrast, rare diseases affect just 200,000 people at most. So companies need to generate far more revenue per patient just to break even. Rare disease treatments also tend to be fragile, largemolecule drugs that require numerous manufacturing, shipping, and storage precautions -f urther inflating costs. ICER largely disregards these differences. The group evaluates rare disease drugs using roughly the same costeffectiveness thresholds it uses for traditional, mass market medicines. Given this rigged scale, it’s no wonder that rare disease treatments score poorly. Scientists are developing more than 560 medicines to treat rare diseases. That research will likely come to a halt -- causing patients to lose access to lifesaving drugs -- if insurers fail to recognize the faults in ICER’s reasoning.
Exchange. Wallace would pay the bellhop a tip every day to walk through the lobby and sing out loudly, “George Wallace, calling George Wallace.” Wallace would use the same gimmick at the University of Alabama
football games in the Fall. He would get the PA announcer to call out his name, “Calling George Wallace.” Name identification is a vital ingredient for success in politics. The Master of Alabama politics knew this fact of political life.
See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.
Council, from B13 during this Friday’s “Little Red Dress Soiree” at Montgomery’s BMW dealership. She is one of 30 women across Alabama who will receive recognitions for her contributions to her city and community. The council also approved a total of $75,000 to help fund the Super 7 Football Championships that will be played at Jordan-Hare Stadium in early December. Projections from the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau in past years indicate that the games help generate several million dollars in revenue, a significant boost for the local economy. In other business, the council approved: -a request for a temporary street closure for the Opelika Chamber of Commerce’s Sno-pelika event on Dec. 4 -the awarding of bids to the city’s engineering department for a robotic total station, purchase of three 2020 SUVs equivalent to Chevy Tahoes for the Opelika Police Department and transformer repair for Opelika Power Services -approved Mayor Gary Fuller to designate city personal property as surplus and authorize its disposal -approved a weed
Duffy Stewart - REALTOR Ivey, from B13 1810 E. Glenn Ave. Suite 130 Auburn, AL 36830 Cell 334-444-8041 Office 334-826-1010 Fax 334-826-1049 duffystewartrealtor@gmail.com www.BHHSPreferredAuburn.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affliates, LLC
their adopted children. “As Alabama sets another positive record, it is a privilege and truly special for me to spend time with adoptive parents and children who now have their forever home,” Governor Ivey said. “To our foster families, adoption professionals, the Department of Human Resources, and most importantly, to the families who have chosen to bless many children with a forever and loving home – thank you! By providing a forever home, you are forever changing the life of a child, as well as your own.” In FY2019, 69% of children who left foster
This week’s puzzle answers:
abatement assessment for 814 Donald Ave. -approved the purchase of hardware and software and camera storage upgrades for the city’s IT department from Tyler Technologies, Inc. and one 2020 Chevy Tahoe for OPD -approved a refunding of $50,255.72 to Opelika City Schools for overpayments on ad valorem taxes -renewal of an agreement with Kucera, a company that handles aerial photographic and specialized mapping services for the cities of Auburn and Opelika, Lee County and Auburn University -approved appropriation contracts of $6,000 and $50,000 for the Employer’s Child Alliance and Arts Association of East Alabama, respectively, and -approved a special appropriation of $2,500 for the Lee County Young Leaders program. The Opelika City Council meets regularly on the first and third Tuesday of each month, with work sessions starting between 6 and 6:45 p.m. followed by their regular meeting at 7 p.m. Meetings are held in the council chambers within City Hall, which is located at 204 S. 7th St. Their next meeting is scheduled for Nov. 18. For more information, call 334-705-5150 or visit www.opelika-al. gov. care, went home to family members or their parent(s). While most children in the state’s foster care system do return to their parents, there are still children seeking an adoptive family. “We are excited to have set an adoption record for the second consecutive year,” Alabama Department of Human Resources Commissioner Nancy Buckner added. “I am extremely appreciative of our partners in the adoption process without whose help this would not have been possible, especially the adopting parents who have given our foster children forever families.” Currently, there are 299 children in Alabama’s foster care system looking for their forever homes.