pelika Observer O
Vol. 12, No. 07
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019
Opelika, Alabama
“By local people, for local people.”
New community garden installed this Pamela Driver hired as weekend at the Lee County Youth supervisor of Covington Development Center’s satellite location Recreation Center
Driver Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer By Morgan Bryce Editor Chilly temperatures and muddy ground did
not deter the horde of volunteers gathered at a satellite location of the Lee County Youth Development Center
at 1312 Spring Drive on Saturday morning for the installation of a new community garden.
Harvest Evangelism looking to distribute more than 2,000 meals this Thanksgiving By Morgan Bryce Editor Harvest Evangelism is needing the community’s help to distribute more than 2,000 meals to people in need this Thanksgiving. This tradition was started more than 30 years ago, but has seen major growth during the last 25 years, according to Harvest Evangelism founder Rick Hagans. Starting at 7 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning under a large tent at Harvest Thrift Store, Hagans and volunteers will gather to package, deliver and distribute meals to local families, blue-collar workers, senior citizens with fixed incomes and others who might go without a home-cooked meal that day.
In a recent press release from Auburn University, Compound See O Grows, page A3
Special to the Opelika Observer Pamela Driver was named as the new Covington Recreation Center supervisor last week. She replaces Patrice Lipscomb, who was hired to replace Tommie Agee as assistant director of Opelika Parks and Recreation.
Almost Anything offering a cash reward of up to $2,500 for tips, information on Oct. 3 burglary
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
“If someone thinks they need a meal, we take them one and don’t ask questions. Even if they don’t truly need it, we use it as an opportunity to tell them
about Jesus,” Hagans said. In order to reach their goal, Hagans said they are still seeking donations and See Meal, page A2
Index
OPINION.....................................A4 SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY..............A7 RELIGION..............................A13 CALENDAR..................................A14
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
By Morgan Bryce Editor Almost Anything of downtown Opelika is offering a cash re-
COMICS.....................................A16 SPORTS..................................B1 PUBLIC NOTICES..........................B10 POLITICS...................................B13
ward of up to $2,500 for any information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of the person or individuals who
burglarized the store on the morning of Oct. 23. According to See Burglary, page A3
pelika O Observer.com
What’s Up? www.doughornroofing.com • 334-744-5246
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A2 Nov. 20, 2019
Greater Peace to host annual ‘Union Thanksgiving Service’ on Nov. 24 By Morgan Bryce Editor Christians and pastors from churches of all denominations across Lee County are invited to the annual “Union Thanksgiving Service” on Nov. 24, starting at 6 p.m at Opelika’s Greater Peace Baptist Church. The event is hosted by the Lee County Minister’s Alliance, and rotates between Greater Peace and First Baptist Church of Opelika. Choirs from Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and the Auburn-Opelika Korean Church will perform, followed by a sermon from keynote speaker Jerry Scott Bradshaw, pastor of Covenenant Presbyterian Church in Auburn.
Meal, from A1 volunteers. Food donations can be dropped off at the thrift
Jerry Bradshaw and family “Our hope is that the people who attend will see the unity and diversity of the body of Christ in this part of the world. There’s so much diversity in the denominations, doctrine and races who attend, but
we all have the same belief in the same mighty God,” said Tom Tippett, pastor of the Church at Opelika. For more information, call 334-749-9487. The church is located at 650 Jeter Ave.
store, which is located at 2540 Pepperell Parkway. Those interested in volunteering can speak with Harvest Evangelism staff by calling 334-742-0777. “We hope everyone that receives a meal will feel
full, but also feel a spirit of peace, love and a part of a community that shows the love that Jesus has for them,” Hagans said. For more information, visit www.harvestevangelism.org.
“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
Small Business Saturday returns to downtown Opelika on Nov. 30 Special to the Opelika Observer The annual “Small Business Saturday” returns to historic Downtown Opelika on Nov. 30. This event, which traditionally falls after Black Friday, encourages residents to shop local and support Opelika’s small businesses. Opelika Main Street is encouraging residents to take time Saturday to shop and dine at the dozens of locally owned businesses that call historic Downtown Opelika home. This event is a great way to kick off the holiday shopping season while burning off calories from Thursday’s turkey dinner. Most downtown shops and restaurants will be open their normal hours, with many offering special deals and savings as
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer part of the event. Live jazz music will also be played that morning. For more information about this or other downtown events, visit opelikamainstreet.org or follow Opelika Main Street on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. About Opelika Main Street: Opelika Main Street helps Opelika thrive
by promoting small businesses through exciting events, projects and social media engagement. Founded in the 1980s, Main Street has helped assist in the revitalization of historic downtown Opelika through facade grants beatification projects and various community events. For more information, visit opelikamainstreet.org.
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pelika Observer
Publisher: Michelle Key Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Doug Horn and Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Sports Writers: Rick Lanier and Michelle@opelikaobserver.com D. Mark Mitchell
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w w w. o p e l i k a o b s e r v e r . c o m 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801
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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.
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A3 Nov. 20, 2019
USPS news releases on ‘Santa Mail’ and holiday mail volume/shipping deadlines Special to the Opelika Observer Santa Claus is imaginary? Not as far as your child is concerned — and the United States Postal Service can help you prove he’s real when your child gets a personalized letter from the big guy — complete with a North Pole postmark. Follow these steps to ensure your children get a response letter from Santa: 1. Have your child write a letter to Santa and place it in an envelope addressed to: Santa Claus, North Pole. 2. Later, when alone, open the envelope and write a personalized response. To save paper, write the response on the back of the original letter. 3. Insert the response letter into an envelope and address it to the child. 4. Add the return address: SANTA, NORTH POLE to the envelope. 5. Affix a first-class mail stamp, such as a new Winter Berries Forever stamp, to the envelope. 6. Place the complete envelope into a larger envelope - preferably a priority mail flat rate envelope — with appropriate postage and address it to: North Pole Postmark Postmaster 4141 Postmark
O Grows, from A1 Solutions, Inc. of Carlsbad, California announced that it was planning to invest $500,000 in the university’s College of Education. The Lee County Youth Development Center received approximately $40,000 of the $500,000 donation, with O Grows contributing to the garden installation. The new garden was finished Monday morning and will complement the existing community garden behind the Southside Center for the Arts in Opelika. O Grows Executive Director Dr. Sean Forbes said the gift will be of tremendous benefit to both his organization and the LCYDC. “With their operations thousands of miles away, CSI’s investment in the youths residing at LCYDC and their neighbors is a
Drive Anchorage, AK 99530-9998 Greetings from the North Pole Post Office must be received by the Anchorage, Alaska Postmaster no later than December 13. Santa’s helpers at the Postal service will take care of the rest. Holiday planning The U.S. postal service is ready to deliver more than 28 million packages per day between Dec.16 to 21, and will average 20.5 million packages per day through the remainder of the year. With a projected 800 million package deliveries between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, the Postal service delivers more packages to homes than any other shipper. The postal service will expand Sunday delivery beginning Nov. 24 to locations with high package volumes. USPS already delivers packages on Sundays in most major cities, and anticipates delivering more than eight million packages on Sundays in December. Mail carriers will also deliver packages for an additional fee on Christmas Day in select locations. The postal service plans for peak holiday season all year. This includes making sure the right equipment is available to sort, process and deliver the expected mail and package volumes.
model of altruistic corporate giving,” Forbes said in the press release. “The gift also speaks to CSI’s commitment to their educational outreach program, the Farmacy Initiative. The initiative promotes community-based food production, cooking and nutrition.” Duante Stanton, director of the College of Education’s Office of Development, greeted and welcomed everyone in attendance, followed by short statements from other project leaders present, including Compound Solutions President Kimberly Sickinger, LCYDC Executive Director Laura Cooper and Forbes. “This is a passion project for us as well, and we install similar gardens for youth in San Diego. It’s very emotional to be involved and install gardens and have the opportunity to see children learn how to garden and cultivate,” Sick-
Seasonal workers are hired when and where needed, and technology has been expanded to enhance package tracking throughout the USPS processing and transportation networks. Busiest mailing and delivery days The postal service’s busiest time of the season peaks two weeks before Christmas, when much last- minute shopping starts. Customer traffic is expected to increase beginning Dec. 9, while the week of Dec. 16 is expected to be the busiest time for mailing, shipping and delivery. Additionally, the postal service predicts that nearly 2.5 billion pieces of firstclass mail, including greeting cards, will be processed and delivered the week of Dec. 16. Skip the trip and ship online Consumers can use usps.com to ship their packages and save trips to the post office. The postal service anticipates Dec. 16 will be the busiest day online with more than 8.5 million consumers predicted to visit usps. com for help shipping holiday gifts. Nearly 105 million consumers are predicted to visit usps.com between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. The postal service estimates nearly 400,000 consumers will use the “Click-
inger said. “We know that those here from O Grows and Compound (Solutions) wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for a passion for children. We thank you all and look forward to what you’re bringing to us and our agency as a whole,” Cooper said. “Doing work through O Grows has been the greatest experience of my life. My lovely wife Susan has been the motivation for almost everything I do, and we’re excited and grateful for the opportunity to do this,” Forbes said. For more information about Compound Solutions, Inc., visit www. compoundsolutions.com. To learn more about the efforts and missions of the LCYDC and O Grows, visit www.lcydc.org and www.auburn.edu/ academic/education/opelgro/. For more photos turn to B7.
N-Ship” feature and other online services Dec. 16 to order free priority mail boxes, print shipping labels, purchase postage and request free next-day package pickup. 2019 Holiday shipping deadlines The postal service recommends the following mailing and shipping deadlines for expected delivery by Dec. 25 to Air/Army Post Office/Fleet Post Office/Diplomatic Post Office and domestic addresses*: Dec. 9 - APO/FPO/ DPO (ZIP Code 093 only) Priority Mail and First-Class Mail Dec. 11 - APO/FPO/ DPO (all other ZIP Codes) Priority Mail and First-Class Mail Dec. 14 - USPS Retail Ground Dec. 18 - APO/ FPO/DPO (except ZIP Code 093) USPS Priority Mail Express Dec. 20 - First-Class Mail (including greeting cards) Dec. 20 - First-Class packages (up to 15.99 ounces) Dec. 21 - Priority Mail Dec. 23 - Priority Mail Express* Alaska Dec. 18 - Alaska to mainland First-Class Mail Dec. 19 - Alaska to mainland Priority Mail Dec. 21 - Alaska to mainland Priority Mail Express Hawaii Dec. 19 - Hawaii to
Burglary, from A1 owner Aaron Bushey, cameras showed only one unidentifiable person wearing a mask and gloves, but there could be more who were involved. They were able to avoid triggering the motion detectors of the store’s alarm system and spent nearly 35 minutes inside the store, from 12:10 to 12:45 a.m. The burglar broke into an area behind the store, attached a metal beam to the back of a vehicle and smashed the back door frame, which led to cracking of an interior wall that nearly caused the building to collapse.
mainland priority mail and first-class mail Dec. 21 - Hawaii to mainland Priority Mail Express *Not a guarantee, unless otherwise noted. Dates are for estimated delivery before Dec. 25. Actual delivery date may vary depending on origin, destination, post office acceptance date and time and other conditions. Some restrictions apply. For priority mail wxpress shipments mailed Dec. 21 to 25, the money-back guarantee applies only if the shipment was not delivered, or delivery was not attempted, within two business days. Delivering for the military and overseas The postal service also processes mail for overseas Department of Defense (DOD) and Department of State (DOS) recipients. The DOD measures mail volumes in pounds not pieces, and USPS expects to process more than 15 million pounds of mail for DOD and DOS recipients between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. More tips for a successful holiday mailing and shipping season: • Use free priority mail flat rate boxes. They are available at local post offices or online at usps.com/
Nearly $50,000 in merchandise was stolen, including coins and currency, jewelry, knives, watches and other accessories that hadn’t been put in the store’s safe the previous evening. Bushey said most of those items will be “easibly identifiable” because of “personalized engravings, serial numbers and rarity” and that most are posted in a photo gallery on Facebook. Although internal and external surveillance videos have been submitted to local law enforcement, Bushey added that there will be additional cash rewards for individuals who help locate missing inventory or help return various
free boxes. • Make it easy with Click-N-Ship. You can create shipping labels and pay for postage online at usps.com/ship. • Schedule a free package pickup when the carrier delivers your mail. It’s free regardless of the number of packages. Or, pickups can be scheduled at usps. com/pickup. • New this year, mail and packages weighing more than 10 ounces and/or are more than a half-inch think using stamps as postage cannot be dropped into a collection box or left for a carrier to pick up. Instead, take them to a window clerk at a post office. Click-NShip customers are unaffected by this change. Additional news and information, including all domestic, international and military mailing and shipping deadlines, can be found on the postal service holiday newsroom at usps. com/holidaynews. The postal service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations. The postal service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations. rare pieces taken during the burglary. Those with tips or information are asked to contact Bushey via email or phone at almostanythingreward@ gmail.com and 334741-0808 during normal business hours or call the Opelika Police Department’s Secret Witness Hotline at 334745-8665. He added that “tips eligible for a reward will be assigned a case number that callers will need in order to claim a reward once the payment criteria has been met.” To learn more about Almost Anything, like and follow their social media pages or visit www.almostanythingopelika.com.
Photos submitted to the Opelika Observer
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A4 Nov. 20, 2019
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Columbus
t’s a rainy night in Georgia. I have an interview on the local evening news. This is a monumental occasion. My mother called to make sure I was wearing clean underwear. The last time I was in Columbus, I was in college. I was wearing clean underwear then, too. I was an adult student, traveling with a bunch of 18-year-old music students on a school trip. That weekend, I saw some of the world’s most accomplished pianists perform in concert. And it was great. I was a different person back then. Back then, I had this ridiculous idea that I was going to be a pianist one day. I wish someone would’ve told me life doesn’t happen how you plan, no matter what kind of underpants you wear. Anyway, being on the news is a big deal. I have only been on the news twice before. The first time, I was helping judge a barbecue competition. Me and my friend Buck were interviewed on a local channel. There were cameras with blinking lights, teleprompters, camera-
men giving hand signals and a makeup lady kept powdering my face and saying, “I’ve never seen so much oil on one godforsaken forehead.” And the interview basically went like this: “So, tell us about the upcoming event, Sean.” “Uhhhh…” “Sean, what can people expect at this event?” “I uhhhh...” “Back to you, Terry.” The other time I was on the news was when my cousin accidentally stole a luxury sedan. His elderly father-in-law had forgotten that he’d agreed to let us borrow his Buick for a road trip. He reported the car as stolen. We got pulled over in Tennessee. After much confusion with local law enforcement officials, we all had a good laugh about it. And I can say one thing about the upstanding penal system in Tennessee, they serve delicious hamburger
steaks. But, getting back to Columbus. Tonight’s news interview is about the one-man show I’m about to do. Which only proves how desperate modern media is for material. The reporter, Mya, and I are in my dressing room, standing before a camera. Mya goes to great pains to get me positioned. She is constantly telling me to “step forward,” “slide to the left,” “slide to the right,” “Cha-Cha real smooth.” Then, Mya touches her earpiece and says, “We’re on in five...” Four. Three. Two. Suddenly. A bright light from the camera. It blinds me. We are not talking about a tiny pinlight. We’re talking about a combat aircraft landing signal aimed at my face. Mya says, “We’re here with Sean Dietrich. Tell us a little bit about yourself, Sean.” And I choke. I clear my throat. I blink at the light. This is what is known in the entertainment industry as dead air. “Uhhhh…” I remark. See Dietrich, page A6
Do you mean by birth or by choice?
L
ast week, I visited my birth state of Rhode Island, nicknamed “The Ocean State.” (That name is not insulting like the old “Little Rhody.” After all, six U.S. states have a smaller population.) At a professional hockey game, my brother’s friends learned I have lived in the South for decades. One of them challenged me with this statement: “Do you consider yourself a Southerner or Northerner?” In this sectionally and politically polarized era, perhaps I could have deflected the question by saying “I haven’t really decided” or “Both have strengths and weaknesses.” Still, that would be dishonest. So, I said “a Southerner because of the very friendly people and the great weather.” That may have stopped them from throwing a hockey puck at me, as the temperature in Providence, Rhode Island was sub-freezing
a bill? No way! Having lived my first 25 years in the North, and traveled widely in both the North and South, I suspect I would not get 24 hours to pay my bill but by an occasional sympathetic Northern clerk. A key reason, besides the weather that I prefer the South is its being friendly to military personnel without reservation. I have certainly seen patriotic and compassionate Northerners, but not as many as the South. Maybe the multitudes of residents in Northern cities, added to a lot of bad weather, and other factors, that cause this. (Caution: defining “patriotism” is different for different folks.) “It goes back to the old European concept in an agrarian society that the first son takes the land, the second becomes the warrior, and the third is a cleric,” said the late Marine Lt. Gen. Bernard Trainor, a military
By Greg Markley and in Opelika, it was in the high 40s. It was 30 years ago this week that I began to notice the graciousness of many Alabamians. In fact, I had driven alone into Anniston for my Fort McClellan assignment when I stopped at a supermarket for supplies. After all the driving, I forgot to get more cash or even to visit an ATM. I said, oops, I am $6 short. The clerk said,” Don’t worry: You can come tomorrow and pay it off.” Would store clerks in Northern cities, even ones the size of Anniston (about 25,000) tell a stranger - albeit one in an Army uniform— to leave without paying
See Markley, page A6
Which one of you ate Blitzen?
I
am a dog lover. And the dogs I love most (at the present) are Libby-the-Lab, Willow-the-Lab and Bothe-Lab. Libby is the senior Lab. She is the family dog. Bo is our son’s lab. He lived with his boy in Auburn until the lad graduated. Then he came to live with us, live with the Jacksons, “Bo Jackson,” get it? Willow, the youngest, is our daughter’s dog and like her girl, runs full-tilt-boogie or crashes. There is no neutral gear. Libby is black. Bo is yellow. Willow is chocolate. We have the trifecta.
T
By Sean Dietrich
Southerner or Northerner?
They are good dogs. So we are comfortable with leaving them loose in the house when we are gone for an hour or so. There is a “doggie door” which lets them into a fenced yard, so they can “potty” or just lay in the sun. Doggie paradise. Or so it would seem to me. When we are gone overnight we have left them with a dog “sitter” who comes to the house, checks on them, feeds them, plays with them and puts them to bed when day is done. Never a problem. My wife’s family holds
an annual Christmas reunion. Complete with enough food to feed a regiment for a year. The location rotates between the siblings and one year we gathered in Franklin, Tennessee. Hearing that we would be gone for three days (two nights) our neighbors volunteered to handle the lab-sitting duties. Then, just before we left, I began to feel uneasy. You see, we had decorated the house. Yes, decorated. My lovely wife takes a backseat to no one when it comes to Christmas
By Hardy Jackson decorations. Soon after December arrives, she festoons the house with greenery and seasonal accessories. There is a tree trimmed with ornaments from top to bottom. Here and there and everywhere are pictures of our kids at various ages, sitting in Santa’s lap, looking apprehensive, or (once in
the case of my daughter) screaming her head off. And the statuary - large and small, secular and religious, tastefully arranged on tables, on the mantle, and hanging in various places around and about. Look, but better not touch. Especially if you are a dog. But, our dogs had done very well. When we were out shopping for an hour or so, we returned to find everything in place. So, it seemed reasonable to assume that if we were gone longer everything would be okay. And just in case, there
were neighbors to feed, water, walk and entertain them. What could go wrong? So, off we went. The family gathering had hardly begun when my wife gets a text from one of the neighbors. “I suspected something was amiss,” she wrote, “when I saw the Christmas tree skirt out in the yard.” She went inside to find that one of the three (or two, or maybe all three) had taken the skirt that was around the base of the tree, dragged it through the doggie-door, See Jackson, page A6
Daisy Town | Historic Wonderland
he late afternoon sun trickles down from high above. It bathes the canopies and blankets thickets with dewy light. Here, the honeysuckle blooms. Balmy air, a curtained mist, is suspend between I and a distant cabin. Only remnants of what once was, history claims the past retreat of a fisherman. I first walked Daisy Town two weeks ago. This small community established between the mouths of Bearwallow Branch and Jakes Creek can be found by venturing further southeast from Elkmont. O’er the years, I’ve read tales of Daisy Town, Elkmont and the historic hotel. History documents a railroad was built there for the Little River Lumber Company in 1908. In the
early 1900’s, they, along with many other logging operations, ravaged the wilderness that would become Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Because of conservation efforts by some locals and many of the era’s leading men, nature has been given a chance to reclaim places once stolen. From logging township to favored retreat, Elkmont has seen many things. As I walk her paths, I sense two centuries of relentless activity. Between the mountains Blanket and Meigs, families came from Knoxville to escape the city’s oppressing summer heat. Some settled at Daisy Town. Other’s migrated deeper into the forest along Jakes Creek towards Cucumber Gap. Today, slender power-
By Sarah West lines still cast ode to the early years of electricity. The backroads decay, as each rain washes away bits of the old paved roadways. Natural paths return, and in years to come, that is all that will remain. I walk the single lane of Daisy Town. Cottages line the path to the Appalachian Club. I visit many of their front porches, and peek through the thin paned glass, imagining past era’s for this resort.
I set out towards Jakes Gap and find myself enraptured by the sights, smells and sounds still found amid homes along Society Hill. Window frames, porch steps, wooden siding all slope and sway with the earth’s natural current. Luminous mosses, thick as carpet cover stone walls and trees that have fallen. The laurel is especially happy here. In this valley, her leaves stretch and reach out like expanded fingers. Unlike those of the upper elevations, who droop towards their stem like umbrellas. Here, in late spring, they are filled with blossoms. A short distance above this settlement are stone steps, which lead to Wonderland. Climb the staircase, and find the well. At first glance a well, and at second,
a fountain bejeweled around its rim; the Quartz laced boarder is still there. Old pictures piece it all together. Behind the fountain, once stood the hotel called Wonderland. They say, cause of the fire was highly suspect. The hotel annex had recently been named a historic landmark, and preservation efforts were underway. Her gaze cast towards views of Blanket Mountain, which in 2016, she burned to the ground. Only remnants remain. I followed the old road down from Wonderland. Through the trees to my right rests Elkmont Cemetery and just below, history paints for me the train depot. Sarah West serves the Opelika Observer as a contributing columnist, with written works of cultural arts relevance and
prose. She is the founder of the Sarah West Gallery of Fine Art, A center for cultural arts, Smiths Station’s premier fine arts destination. She is the appointed official artist to the city of Smiths Station, a Lee County syndicated columnist, the director of her art center’s Cultural Arts Outreach Initiative, which partners with local schools to make the arts accessible to all. She also serves a chief curator to the City of Smiths Station, City Hall Art Galleries. She is a founding member of the Smith Station Historic Commission. She mentors art students of every age through weekly classes at her studio located in the heart of Smiths Station, Alabama. To learn more about her work and activism visit, www.thesarahwestgalleryoffineart.com.
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A5 Nov. 20, 2019
Gov. Kay Ivey’s Chief of Staff Jo Bonner speaks to the Opelika Kiwanis Club on Nov. 14 Photo special to the Opelika Observer Jo Bonner, Gov. Kay Ivey’s chief of staff was theguest speaker at the Nov. 14 Kiwanis Club meeting. Pictured from left to right are Tom Whatley, Jo Bonner and Bob Harris.
Dec. 10 at 7:30 p.m. Opelika Center for the Performing Arts For tickets call 334-749-8105 or visit eastalabamaarts.org
pelika O Opinion An American in Cuba | Third Lens Ministries A6
Nov. 20, 2019
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ering of faith here, it is open for all the world to see. The children are in the front row, hands raised and dancing in honor and praise of what is before them. Smiles and laughter and the most precious Spanish speaking voices one can hear. It is nothing like church in Lee County, yet it is the same. A gathering of people, in a holy place to worship the one who holds their life. When I sat down for the last time with Pastor Enrique before leaving the Island, I asked of him, “What is it you need that we can help you with?” His small team of members looked at one another, trying to figure out how to answer. I was thinking it must be something big or extravagant. “We need a hot glue gun,” Enrique said. “We need crayons and a little paint for the children. We need maybe a nice book to give our newly-weds about love and faith. We need needles and thread for the sewing machine for our senior women’s class.” “Do you have crafting supplies?” he asked. “We have a children’s curriculum but nothing for them to do.” I quickly ask if they have any children’s bibles or picture bibles. He asks in Spanish the same question to the Children’s director. She looks at me and smiles with bright
’ve prayed many things over the years. Things for my family, my friends and people I don’t even know. I have learned as I’ve grown older, I must not forget about myself. For God too loves me just as much as “the least of these.” I tend to think quite wildly and dream a little larger than I should. Perhaps this is something God set inside of me, to possibly be a beacon for someone or something. Maybe it’s the Lord’s will and the Lord’s way to use my “dreams and visons” for good and purpose. I honestly have no clue most of the time what I’m getting into, but strangely, I feel led to go. I often wonder why. Why do I dream up these things? Why do I have no hesitation? Why am I so eager to get up and go on mission? Am I blind? Or maybe just willing. A couple years ago, I began to pray things for myself like, “Lord, I’ll do anything for you.” “Lord, I want to dance through this beautiful life you’ve given me.” “Dear God, give me passion and give me truth.” “Dear Lord, I want to share stories of your people.” And lastly, “Lord, show me the people who need to see you.” And so, I ended up in Cuba. It’s no coincidence at all, not even odd. It was mapped out from the beginning. I was asked to go to
Cuba by a nonprofit organization, Third Lens Ministries. Third Lens’ mission is to design and build environments of healing, empowerment and redemption. They bridge ministry to construction and design. They take on projects locally, and all over the world in places such as Cuba, Ecuador, Haiti, Hondura, Kenya and Uganda. Director of operations for Third Lens Ministries is Auburn native Brain O’Neil. O’Neil saw a small disconnect between the stories and impact Third Lens is having around the world, to the donors and people of interest that support and serve its mission. My mission while in Cuba was to walk the path of impact that Third Lens Ministries is carrying out in Cuba and then to tell the stories of the lives and people it touches. So, without hesitation, and with my husband along as my escort, we boarded a plane bound for Havana, Cuba. The people I met, the things my eyes got to see and the voices of the Cuban people will tell stories for months to come. I could honestly write an entire book. But I will start in one central place, a pastor, in a small town, on a tiny island, sitting with me in the upper room of his church. His name is Pastor Enrique. He is an ordained Methodist pastor and is leading
Dietrich,
Mya tells me to break a leg. I suspect she truly means it. For several years I have been doing my one-man show with only a guitar. Usually, I play a song, tell a story, play another song, etc. That’s pretty much it. Then, I say goodnight, whereupon audience members go to the ticket booth and demand a refund. But tonight, here at the amphitheater, I found a grand piano backstage before the show. On a whim, I asked the sound guy if he’d let me play the thing for the performance. He said sure. He rolled it center stage and locked the wheels in place. For the show, I end up playing several songs which I have not played in many years. And I tell the story of
how once upon a time I took a bus to Columbus to watch concert pianists play. And I am sort of taken by the irony of this moment. I almost feel foolish about it. When I finish the show, my hands are hurting because they are out of shape. We go back to our hotel room, I collapse on the bed. I turn on the television. The news is on. There I am. A big dork on TV. My hair is in need of cutting. My beard needs a trim. I look like a starvation victim on diuretics in the harsh glow of the camera lights. My wife and I count how many times I say “Uhhhhh….” Nineteen times. I turn off the television. I stare out my hotel room at the lights of Columbus. And I think
about how much life has changed me. It’s softened me in some places, toughened me in others. I have spent three quarters of my life being lost and confused. The other quarter was spent horsing around. I look horrible on television. And I am not a great pianist. But, by God, I am wearing clean underwear. And that has to count for something. Sean Dietrich is a columnist, and novelist, known for his commentary on life in the American South. His work has appeared in Southern Living, the Tallahassee Democrat, Southern Magazine, Yellowhammer News, the Bitter Southerner, the Mobile Press Register and he has authored seven books.
from the ornaments that fell from the tree when they stripped off the skirt. Displaying a certain respect for objects with some religious significance, they put most of their energy in stripping from the lower branches of the tree a little drummer boy, one of the three
ships that came sailing in on Christmas day, and others that were hanging low. And Blitzen. Hanging from a hook were Santa’s reindeer. Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, etc., etc. At the end, closest to the ground, was Blitzen. Blitzen was gone.
And when I asked “who ate Blitzen?” All I got were innocent stares. Labs. Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson is Professor Emeritus of History at Jacksonville State University. He can be reached at hjackson@ cableone.net.
from A4 And while I stammer, Mya just smiles at the camera until the muscles in her neck are poking out and a single bead of sweat rolls down her temple. “Uhhhh...” I add. After the interview, I get my picture taken with Mya. We pose for a selfie. Mya informs me that I am not a good selfie-picture-taker. To take a proper selfie you have to hold your cellphone camera at a high angle. If you hold the camera too low, everyone in the photograph comes out looking like overweight members of the Lollipop Guild. After selfies, someone knocks on the door and says, “It’s showtime.”
Jackson, from A4 and after a romp, deposited it near the hole they had dug. Then they went back into the house and began picking and choosing
By Bradley Robertson hundreds of people in Patria and Gerona, Cuba to a fuller way of life. He is a jolly and happy man. He laughs a lot and has a fun demeanor about him that’s attractive to the locals, those searching for something better. With the assistance of Third Lens Ministries, his congregation has a brand-new church that celebrated its first anniversary this past Sunday. The church from ground up cost nearly $30,000 USD. It is full every Sunday. Overflowing actually. Its members are passionate and full of life. Almost all of these people get to church by foot, bicycle or a horse-drawn buggy. There are children, elderly, teenagers, young adults and seniors. They smile and they sing with joy in a way that is not often seen here in the US. They hold nothing back. Their filling of the holy spirit is clearly visible. No need to wonder if they are Christians. You see it on them. The way their eyes light up and the way they hug and kiss one another. They way they pray with humble and earnest hearts out loud. There is no cov-
eyes. “No,” she said. “The children sure would love that.” I am in awe in my seat, on the verge of tears. Everyday simple items. Yet unattainable and nowhere to get them here in Petria, Cuba. It occurred to me that their goal and mission is praise and worship and prayer and loving people. The extra to-do to serve and love others with things and activities is on the back burner. They love and serve face to face. With passion and a realness that’s hard to find. I found it and I saw it. The last thing they asked for was the purchase of the building next door with the hopes of using it for a children’s school and maybe youths as well. I asked him to give me a dollar amount. “It is for sale for 6,000 CSC. It has been for sale for over year.” I calculate this to American money; the building would cost just under $7,000 in US currency. These requests are small, mindless endeavors to our American people. Simplicity.
Smallness. Faith and goodness pouring from their hearts. All in joy and gratitude. Expecting nothing but hopeful for their future. I know for certain that God is in all things and God goes before all things. They will have a children’s Sunday school, I see it and believe it. I see children painting pictures of Jesus in watercolor and I see them reading Spanish picture bibles, giggling and smiling and asking questions, just as my little Shep does at our home in the evening. This is Cuba. A pastor loving his people and reaching out to better serve those who need to be loved. This is Third Lens Ministries, connecting those that have much to pour their gifts and talents into those that have little. Robertson is a local mother, wife and creative. She’s an Auburn University graduate, loves good food and getting outside with her family. Bradley enjoys feature writing, as well as southern culture and lifestyle writing.
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
Markley, from A4 affairs writer for The New York Times. He was describing the ethos that hits the American South hard, to have a son or daughter join the military, especially when there are several siblings. Northerners who live in the South while attending Auburn University or Southern Union often get a favorable view of the patriotic people here. Southerners are fond of symbols such as martial music, military parades and especially the U.S. flag. I applaud the diversity in students and employees of our two local postsecondary institutions. Many of them find good jobs and a great way of life in Lee County or elsewhere in Alabama. My brothers’ friend who posed the question of North v. South said something about how hateful former Alabama Gov. George Wallace was in the 1960s. That’s true but that old racial strife doesn’t deter me from saying I am an Alabamian. The state is still portrayed in TV shows and movies as
backward and full of bigots of every stripe. All states have a checkered history in some way. But Hollywood goes out of its way to make Alabama look bad. That must cease. Portraying the state as it was in the 1950s, etc. is all right as far as history goes. But the state’s progress from the north, Huntsville (NASA, etc.) to the south, Mobile (Navy projects, and more) is amazing. To be an Alabamian and see its economic explosion is wonderful. This story should get out because it is true and exciting. In just one month, Alabama will celebrate 200 years (on Dec. 14). As I walk the streets and drive the highways throughout our state, and despite a Northern birth and accent, I think back to a question I posed back in 1990, my second year in Alabama: “Which is warmer, Alabama’s weather, or its people?” That’s a tough one, indeed. 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.
Opelika E vents, Society, & Food
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
• Nov. 21 - SZLACHETCKA and Sarah Aili at The Sound Wall • Nov. 23 - Red Clay Highway Gravel Grinder • Nov. 30 - Small Business Saturday • Dec. 4 - Sno*pelika
Thanksgiving is family time for Duncans with music, good food Ann Cipperly’s
Southern
Hospitality
T
hanksgiving is filled with family activities for Kelli and Chris Duncan, as they gather with family for a time of being grateful, singing songs together and savoring good homemade meals. The festivities begin the week before with a Thanksgiving potluck supper at their church, then a special service Sunday. Thanksgiving is celebrated with family Thursday and Friday. The week is capped Sunday with their annual Festival of Lessons and Carols service on the first Sunday of Advent. Pastor Duncan is the minister of Trinity Pres-
After the Duncans lived in Birmingham for a couple of years, Chris received a position as assistant pastor from Trinity in 2000. He was called as senior pastor in 2006. “It was really a blessing,” Kelli said. “I never thought the Lord would bring us here and to this church. The girls have been able to grow up near their grandparents.” Kelli is thankful she was near her grandparents growing up, especially for the holidays. Her family would visit her maternal grandparents’ home in Phenix City for Thanksgiving and then go
byterian Church. Both Chris and Kelli grew up in Opelika. When Kelli was growing up, she attended Trinity Presbyterian, where her father still plays the piano and organ. She also attended Trinity Christian School where their daughters, Georgia, 16, and Clara, 14, now attend school. Kelli and Chris married after she graduated from Auburn University. Chris graduated from Auburn University and Beeson Divinity School at Samford University in Birmingham. He also received a doctoral degree in American history at Auburn.
Lucy’s Chef Brian Paolina named winner of ‘Alabama Gulf Seafood Chef of the Month’ for November Special to the Opelika Observer The Alabama Seafood Marketing Commission announced last week that Chef Brian Paolina of Lucy’s in Auburn has been named as November’s “Alabama Gulf Seafood Chef of the Month.” Alabama Gulf Seafood honors chefs statewide each month for their commitment to providing customers with the finest culinary options using seafood sourced from Alabama waters. “To me, what’s
Paolina most important about sourcing locally is having the privilege of seeing your product grow from start to finish, meeting the farmer who made it all possible and hearing their story,”
Paolina said. “Knowing that your guest is tasting something so fresh and grown just miles down the road helps you build a relationship with the community and the
Photo by Ann Cipperly Pastor Chris Duncan and his wife Kelli start early celebrating Thanksgiving with special events at their church. Thanksgiving weekend is a joyous time, kicking off the holiday season with family. Kelli is sharing favorite traditional recipes her family prepares every year, while Chris is sharing his grilled turkey recipe.
to Abbeville to spend the weekend with her father’s family. After the Duncans were married and Kelli’s mom passed away, they began going to her father’s home in Opelika for Thanksgiving lunch. Starting this year, Kelli and her cousin will rotate hosting Thanksgiving at their homes. Every year family members bring the same dish for Thanksgiving lunch. Kelli is sharing the traditional
family recipes. Chris will cook the turkey, while Kelli prepares dressing and the hash brown casserole. Kelli will prepare some dishes ahead. She will cook the cornbread for the dressing and freeze, as well as the casserole. Over the years, Chris has cooked the turkey using various methods, but they prefer the grilled turkey. The recipe he is sharing uses indirect heat. He has also smoked and fried
turkeys, but it was a great deal of trouble. Sometimes he will use a salt brine for the turkey. Although it takes a lot of space in the refrigerator, it produces a tender turkey. While the turkey is cooking, they watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving parade on television. When the family gets together at Thanksgiving and Christmas, they will sing See Cipperly, page A11
‘Where Y’at’ performing trad jazz at The Sound Wall on Nov. 22 Special to the Opelika Observer On Nov. 22, the band Where Y’at, led by tuba player Stephen Kunzer, will perform a ticketed concert at The Sound Wall, which is located at 605 Ave. B in Opelika. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. followed by the show at 7 p.m. This is a bringyour-own-beer event. Tickets can be purchased online for $20 at thesoundwallopelika.com with a $2.85 processing fee.
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Pictured is Stephen Kunzer who leads the band Where Y’at, performing a ticketed show Friday night at The Sound Wall. Band leader Stephen Kunzer says his group’s music calls forth styles of traditional New Orleans jazz bands and draws from influences like
spirituals, blues, ragtime, funk, R&B and soul. Most of the music on Friday’s concert will be pop See Sound Wall, page A9
See Paolina, page A8
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pelika O Observer
A8 Nov. 20, 2019
Arizona-based rock group returns to Auburn-Opelika on Dec. 19 for ‘A Winter’s Evening with Ryanhood’ Special to the Opelika Observer
Fresh off acclaimed appearances at The Sundilla Concert Series and the Opelika Songwriters Festival, Arizona duo Ryanhood return to town Dec. 19 for “A Winter’s Evening with Ryanhood” at Pebble Hill. Ryanhood got their first break more than a decade ago as street-performers at Boston’s Quincy Market. It was there that Ryan Green and Cameron Hood were spotted by a college booking agent and thrust into the college touring scene, where Campus Activities
Paolina, from A7 farmers.” Additionally, Paolina’s recipe Charred Gulf Oysters with Pimento Cheese, which includes locallyharvested oysters, was named Alabama Gulf Seafood Recipe of the
Magazine would soon name them “one of the most requested acts by college buyers all across the country.” The two first met in high school, where they were separated not just by a grade (Hood being a year older) but by a respectful rivalry between their two rock bands. Hood and Green would face off annually in the Battle Of The Bands, and although Hood’s band would ultimately win two out of the three competitions, Green managed to impress him and the rest of the school with his abilities on the guitar, which would ultimate-
ly earn him a scholarship to Boston’s prestigious Berklee College of Music. Cameron enrolled as an art student at the University of Arizona, and they started what they would call “a long-distance musical relationship,” mailing each other minidiscs of new song ideas and getting together during academic breaks to rehearse and perform. Within weeks of graduating college, Hood took a leap of faith and moved to Boston to join Ryan. Determined to make a living as musicians, Ryanhood became full-time street per-
formers at Boston’s historic Quincy Market where they developed a rapport with audiences that has become a hallmark of their shows. They soon took this high-energy, highly-
interactive streetperformers approach to the college market, where they quickly became one of the most popular bands on the circuit, playing upwards of 130 college dates a year.
They would go on to tour with Jason Mraz, record an album with Grammywinning producer Ross Hogarth, share stages with the likes of Train, and even
Month. Paolina was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, and took his first job in the restaurant industry at age 17. He later attended culinary school at the Art Institute of California, relocating afterward to Auburn where he opened Lucy’s. Lucy’s is known as a modern American neighborhood eatery
where locally sourced food is made and served from the heart. In-house Alabama Gulf Seafood menu options include various seafood and oyster dishes from the Gulf of Mexico. Referring to what makes Alabama Gulf Seafood special, Paolina said, “The Gulf of Mexico has over 4,500 species of seafood,
and Alabama alone has around 150 — with over 100 species considered globally rare. The warm water and high salinity levels give our seafood a distinct, sweet and earthier flavor not found anywhere else.” For more information on Alabama Gulf Seafood, visit EatAlabamaSeafood.com. ABOUT THE ALA-
BAMA SEAFOOD MARKETING COMMISSION Established by stateappointed executive order in March 2011, the Alabama Seafood Marketing Commission (ASMC) was created to help provide advice, oversight, management and encouragement to the marketing of Alabama seafood. Led by Chris Blankenship,
commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the ASMC is composed of volunteer, governorappointed members including fishermen, processors, charter boat operators, retailers, restaurant owners and others both directly and indirectly related to the Alabama seafood industry.
Rebecca Rice Cell: 334-703-0801 rebecca@johnrice.info
Ryanhood
See Ryanhood, page A9
pelika O Observer
A9 Nov. 20, 2019
Find the perfect Christmas gift at Hyundai of Auburn’s sixth-annual ‘Christmas Bazaar’ Dec. 5 through 7 Special to the Opelika Observer Hyundai of Auburn’s sixth annual “Christmas Bazaar” will be held Dec. 5 through 7. The event will feature three days of shopping and include the following vendors: • Sweet Cheeks and the Garden of Eatin’ - Barbara Johnston • 31 Bags - Ashley Mayo
Sound Wall, from A7 tunes from the 1920s and 30s played in a traditional New Orleans jazz style, often called “trad jazz.” The show will include songs like “Sweet Georgia Brown,” “When You’re Smiling,” “Just a Closer Walk with Thee,” “All of Me” and “Dinah.” In addition to pop tunes, Kunzer said a lot of traditional New Orleans music comes from seedier origins. In New Orleans there was a tradition called second line where bars and brothels would hire brass bands to march through the streets. People would follow the bands to the plac-
Ryanhood, from A8 get tweeted about by Ellen DeGeneres. Ryanhood has collectively performed more than 800 shows in 45 U.S. states, where their cross-generational sound has been equally at home in colleges, coffeehouses, concert halls, churches and living rooms. And now, 15
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es of business. “The band would go in the front door and out the back,” he said. Kunzer is a lecturer of music at Auburn University. As an undergrad at the University of Arizona, he attended a masterclass with bassist Ben Jaffe, whose father Allan Jaffe founded the New Orleans Preservation Hall band. Kunzer said Jaffe was emphatic that the traditional music of New Orleans not be called Dixieland. The seasoned bassist considered Dixieland to be the racist version of the music of his heritage and that those bands took what was happening in New Orleans and packaged it for profit. “It was much more formalized and arranged than the raw
Gail Saia • Papparazzi Jewelry - Stephanie Holloway • Perfectly Posh Jan Holland • Scentsy - Patricia Cook and • Yoli Products Candi Beck. There will be doorprize drawings each night of the event. For more information, call 334-3210777. The dealership is located at 823 Opelika Road.
stuff they were doing in New Orleans,” Kunzer said. “The origin of it was people just getting together playing music,” he said, adding that this more spontaneous spirit is the direction he’s trying to go with Where Y’at. Though classically trained as a tubist, Kunzer said he was inspired to play jazz by his teachers, Kelly Thomas and later, Sam Pilafian. They encouraged him that the tuba was used in the very beginning when jazz was formed in the early 20th century. “You gotta get back to your roots,” Kunzer said. Pilafian was a particular influence on Kunzer. “If there was like a Mount Rushmore of tuba players, he was front and center
years after their street start, Ryanhood’s star is still on the rise as they were named “Best Group/Duo” in the 2014 International Acoustic Music Awards (IAMAs). Admission will be $20 at the door, but $15 advance tickets are available at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee and online at www.sundillamusic.com. The venue is located at 101 S. Debardeleben St.
Located in Historic Downtown Opelika
334-745-4618
Photo special to the Opelika Observer
on it,” Kunzer said. in 1991, Pilafian released a duo CD called “Travelin’ Light” which Kunzer said inspired him to start his first trad band, the Olive Street Stompers. On stage will be founder Stephen Kunzer on tuba with Matt Wood on trombone and Patrick McCurry on saxophone, xAndy Martin on drums, Marie Robertson on vocals and Patrick Bruce on guitar. Kunzer lists his roles as solo artist, chamber musician, educator, clinician, freelance musician and orchestral musician. He previously served on the faculty at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas and Oklahoma State University. Kunzer has per-
formed with orchestras and other large groups as well as the acclaimed Dallas Brass Quintet, and is an International Artist and Clinician for Eastman Music Company. The Sound Wall is a full-service recording studio and music venue located in downtown Opelika. Owners Rob and Jen Slocumb double as the internationally known folk/rock duo, Martha’s Trouble. “We’ve created a true listening-room experience for our shows,” Rob said. Most of the venue’s programming includes touring singersongwriters as well as supper club events. He says the idea
for a jazz series came from clubs like Snug Harbor in New Orleans and the Village Vanguard in New York City where the music takes center stage. “It’s that sweet spot between concert hall and social club.” On Wednesday at 7 p.m., The Sound Wall is presenting Opelika Songwriters Night at John Emerald Distillery. On Thursday, touring and acclaimed performing artist SZLACHETKA with Nashville singer-songwriter Sarah Aili will perform at The Sound Wall. Those interested can find more information online at thesoundwallopelika. com or call 334-5753477.
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pelika Observer O
A10 Nov. 20, 2019
James Spann held Book-signing event at Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library Saturday
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Pictured above is Clay Williford and his family with Spann after getting their books signed. Williford was one of the event organizers.
By Opelika Observer Staff Beloved television personality and Alabama weatherman James Spann visited Opelika’s Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library last Saturday Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer to conduct a booksigning ceremony for copies of his recently released autobiography “Weathering Life.” The autobiography chronicles Spann’s
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life growing up in a single-mother household in Tuscaloosa, his journey to becoming one of Alabama’s and the Southeast’s most beloved and well-known meteorologists, and the April 27, 2011 tornado outbreak that ultimately motivated him to write this memoir. “I have never considered my life that interesting, but I now know many people
come from similar struggles, and deal with the same issues and ghosts from life events, both current and past. I hope people are encouraged when they read the book, and understand you can live out your dream despite challenging circumstances,” Spann said about the book’s contents. Lee County Emergency Agency PIO Rita Smith joined Spann at the event, manning a weatherpreparedness table and gave away several NOAA weather radios. Pictured bottom left is West Forest student Thaniel Hinz with his mother and Spann. Copies of Spann’s book can be purchased for $19.95 online at www.jamesspannbook.com. Spann currently serves as the chief meteorologist for Birmingham’s WBMA, an ABC affiliate.
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pelika O Observer Cipperly, from A7 hymns before the blessing is said for the meal. After dinner, Kelli’s father plays the piano, and they sing choir music and other favorite songs. It is a happy time with all of Kelli’s cousins singing. Chris’ brother comes from Orlando, Florida for Thanksgiving. The Duncans will go to Chris’
Recipes Chris Duncan’s Grilled Turkey Roast Turkey 2 sticks salted butter 1 clove garlic 1 Tbsp. rosemary 1 Tbsp. thyme 2 tsp. sage Preheat the grill to about 325-350 degrees. Remove all the giblets from inside the bird. Wash and rinse the turkey, then pat it dry completely with paper towels. Tuck the wings under the back and tie the legs together with twine so everything cooks evenly. Mix 2 sticks salted butter, 1 clove minced garlic, 1 Tbsp. rosemary, 1 Tbsp. thyme and 2 tsp. sage together in a bowl. Rub the herbed butter all over the outside of the turkey until all the skin is covered. Place a round disposable aluminum pan on the grill to catch the drippings and shield direct heat. Place the turkey on three big balls of aluminum foil to raise it up off the pan and allow the fat to drip but not get inside the grill. Roast the turkey for about 4 and a half hours, until it has an internal temperature of 165 degrees and the skin is brown and crispy. Cook it for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound. Once you reach an internal temp of 165 degrees, remove turkey from grill and allow to sit for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. Potato Casserole 1 (2 lb.) pkg. frozen hash brown potatoes 16 oz. carton sour cream 1 can cream of chicken soup 1/2 cup chopped onion or 1 Tbsp. onion powder 2 cups grated cheese, divided Mix all ingredients together in 9 x 13 dish (reserving 1 cup cheese for top). Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes - 1 hour. Lura New’s Cornbread Dressing 6 cups cornbread (mix in food processor) 3 cups white bread or cooked canned biscuits (mix in food processor) 1 ½ cups finely chopped onion 3/4 cup finely chopped celery 2 quarts chicken broth 1 can cream of chicken soup 4 eggs (beat before adding)
mother’s and step-father’s house, Lura and Bill New, for Thanksgiving supper. Kelli is sharing Lura’s dressing recipe that was her mother’s recipe that is prepared every Thanksgiving. On Friday for lunch, the Duncans get together with Chris’ father and step-mom, Mary Kathryn and Mike Duncan, at their home. “We get to see everybody at Thanksgiving,” Kelli said, “and we enjoy that.”
Saturday is a big day too with the Auburn-Alabama game, and sometimes they attend the game with their daughters. Thanksgiving weekend is also the time they start decorating for the Christmas season. Celebrating Thanksgiving starts early for the Duncans. The week before Thanksgiving their church provides turkey, ham, dressing and rolls for the Wednesday night supper, while members bring a side
dish. Church service on Sunday has a Thanksgiving theme with music. Thanksgiving is also celebrated at Trinity School, which goes through the 12th grade. They have nearly 250 students with 34 churches represented in the student body. Georgia and Clara enjoy attending. They have just finished volleyball season and are starting soccer. “Thanksgiving is such a special time with family, music and food,” Chris
Poultry seasoning to taste (taste before you add eggs) Mix all ingredients together (should be soupy). Bake at 400 degrees for about 1 hour.
toes and green chilies (Rotel) Heat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a shallow 2 quart baking dish. Bring 2 cups water and the milk to boil in large saucepan. Add salt, then slowly add grits and return to a boil, stirring constantly 1 minute. Reduce heat, cover and cook 3 minutes. Add stick of butter; stir until melted. Cover and cook 3 to 5 minutes until thick and creamy. Remove from heat; set aside. Melt remaining 1 Tbsp. butter in a skillet; add scallions and sauté 1 minute. Add to grits along with the garlic powder and 1 ½ cups cheese. Stir until cheese melts. Add tomatoes; mix well. Pour into baking dish. Bake 40 minutes, sprinkling with rest of cheese for last 5 minutes baking time.
3 oz. cream cheese, room temperature ½ cup peanut butter 1 cup powdered sugar 1 (12 oz.) carton Cool Whip, divided Chopped peanuts, optional Cream together cream cheese and sugar. Add peanut butter and cream well. Stir in 2/3 Cool Whip and put into pie shell. Put remaining Cool Whip on top of pie and garnish with chopped peanuts (optional).
Pop’s Cornbread You will need a round cast iron skillet. Over time, the skillet will season. Use the skillet only for cornbread, or it will pick up flavors from anything else (like fish or bacon). Never wash the skillet; just wipe it with a damp cloth and store it with a light coat of grease on the inside to prevent rusting. After it is seasoned, you will not need to oil it to store. 2 cups. buttermilk cornmeal mix (Martha White self-rising) 3 Tbsp. vegetable oil (about ¼ cup) 1 egg Buttermilk (about half quart, but you have to eyeball it) Preheat the vegetable oil in cast iron skillet in oven at 450 degrees. In a bowl, mix egg, cornmeal and buttermilk to pancake batter consistency. Add oil from preheated pan into mix and stir. Pour all the mixture back into skillet. Bake at 450 degrees for 15-20. Cornbread is done when you insert and remove toothpick with no residue. Dump cornbread upside down onto plate and serve. Corn Casserole 1 stick butter 1 can whole kernel corn (slightly drained) 1 can cream style corn 1 box Jiffy corn muffin mix 1 stick butter 2 eggs Melt butter in casserole dish. Add both cans of corn, muffin mix, and eggs. Mix well and bake at 375 degrees for 30-45 minutes. Tomato Grits 1 ¼ cups milk 1 tsp. salt 1 cup quick cooking grits 1 stick (1/2 cup) plus 1 Tbsp. butter 1/3 cup thinly sliced scallions ¼ tsp. garlic powder 2 ½ cups (10 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese 1 can diced toma-
Baked Rice 1 onion (chopped and sautéed in 1 stick butter or olive oil) 1 cup converted rice poured in a 9 x 13 pan with 2 cans of beef consommé Add onion to rice. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Chocolate Heaven 1st Layer: 1 cup chopped pecans 2 cups flour 2 sticks melted butter Mix pecans and flour with butter. Pat into the bottom of a 9 x 13 baking pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 15 minutes. Let cool. 2nd Layer: 1 cup powdered sugar 1 cup Cool Whip 3 oz. cream cheese, room temperature Mix together and spread over crust. 3rd Layer: 3 small boxes Jell-O Instant Chocolate Pudding 4 ½ cups milk Mix together as directed on package. Spread pudding over cream cheese mixture. 4th Layer: Spread remainder of 12 oz. container of Cool Whip over pudding. Store in refrigerator until ready to serve. Creamy Peanut Butter Pie 1 graham cracker pie crust
Grandmother Akin’s Pecan Pie 1 ¼ cups sugar ½ cup light corn syrup ¼ cup butter or margarine 3 eggs, slightly beaten 1 cup pecans 1 tsp. vanilla 9-inch unbaked pie shell (not a deep dish) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine sugar, corn syrup and butter in saucepan. Bring to boil on high, stirring constantly until butter is melted. Remove from heat. Gradually add hot syrup to beaten eggs, stirring constantly. Add pecans to first mixture and cool to lukewarm. Add vanilla to filling. Pour filling into pie shell and bake for 40-45 minutes. Grandmother Duncan’s Sausage Pinwheels Great for breakfast or brunch! 2 ¼ cups Bisquick 2/3 cup milk 1 lb. hot sausage 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese Heat oven to 400 degrees. Create dough with Bisquick mix and milk. Split dough in two. On wax paper, roll out each section of dough. Make each one as wide as a cookie sheet as possible. Spread out sausage (uncooked) evenly on both sections of dough. It spreads easier if you microwave sausage for 20-30 seconds. Sprinkle cheese all over each one. With each section, start on one side and roll toward the other, creating a large log shape. Wrap each one in wax paper and place in freezer for 15-20 minutes before slicing. Slice into ½ inch pieces.
A11 Nov. 20, 2019 said. “It is important to set aside a time to purposely give thanks to God for all the ways He has blessed us, to count those blessings and not take them for granted.” Kelli echoed those thoughts. “It’s a great time to be with family and to remember all the things we have to be thankful about. It is also fun, too, because it is the start of the holiday season. We get to see everybody at Thanksgiving and look forward to seeing them at
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Chicken-Beef Casserole This chicken recipe is great for Sundays to pop in the oven before heading out for church! 1 jar dried beef (rinsed and patted dry) Bacon (1-2 strips per breast) 2 cans golden mushroom soup ½ pint sour cream (or a whole pint if you like!) 8 chicken breasts (or sometimes I use chicken tenderloins and wrap 1 piece of bacon around each one) Line 9 x 13 pan with dried beef. Wrap chicken with bacon and put in pan. Mix together golden mushroom soup and sour cream and then pour on top of chicken breasts. Cook at 200 degrees for 4 hours (or 250 for 3 hours); cover with foil if it’s starting to brown too early. Makes 8 servings. Chocolate Éclair Dessert 2 individual pkgs. graham crackers (1 16 oz. pkg) 2 (3 oz.) pkgs. instant vanilla pudding mix 3 cups milk 1 (8 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed 1 (16 oz.) pkg. prepared chocolate frosting Line the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch pan with graham crackers. In a large bowl, combine pudding mix and milk. Stir well. Stir in whipped topping to pudding mixture. Spread half of mixture over graham cracker layer. Top with another layer of graham crackers and the remaining pudding. Top with a final layer of graham crackers. Microwave chocolate frosting 45 seconds-1 minute (until runny) and pour over graham crackers. Refrigerate until serving. Crock Pot Mac and Cheese 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
Christmas.” Since Thanksgiving is late this year, on Sunday morning after Thanksgiving their church will hold their annual Lessons and Carols service. The Christmas story is read, and the Chancel and Chapel choirs present special music with an orchestra. The church will also hold a candlelight service at 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Ann Cipperly can be reached at recipes@cipperly.com.
4 Tbsp. butter 2 ½ cups grated sharp cheddar cheese 1/2 cup sour cream 1 (10 ¾ oz.) can condensed cheddar cheese soup 1/2 tsp. salt 1 cup whole milk 1/2 tsp. dry mustard 1/2 tsp. black pepper Boil the macaroni in water for 6 minutes. Drain. Pour into crock pot along with butter and mix until butter melts. Combine all other ingredients and cook on low for 2 ½ hours, stirring occasionally. Serves 4 to 6. Brown Sugar Bacon Smokies 1 pkg. mini “smokies” sausages 1 regular size pkg. bacon 1 cup light brown sugar, packed Cut bacon into thirds. Wrap each sausage with a piece of cut bacon, securing with toothpick. Sprinkle with brown sugar. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.
Food Ratings Starbuck’s Coffee 2056 Interstate Drive Opelika Score: 100 Cook-Out Restaurant 2168 Interstate Drive Opelika Score: 99 The Steak Factory 1413 Frederick Road Opelika Score: 98 Firehouse Subs 1907 S. College St. Auburn Score: 98 Tailgate Grille 3050 Alabama Highway 14 Auburn Score: 96 The Corner Market 850 MLK Drive Auburn Score: 93
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‘Joyful Expectation’ of Advent Special to the Opelika Observer People of all faiths are invited to a morning of prayer, reflection and discussion on “Joyful Expectation: An Advent Blessing” at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Auburn on Dec. 10. The morning will
include a brunch and will conclude at noon. There is no charge for the program or brunch, but donations will be accepted. All are invited to come early to 8 a.m. mass. The presenter will be Sister Gail Lambert, MSBT. Sister Gail has many years’ experience leading prayer
retreats and workshops. She currently serves as Charism Resource Leader and a spiritual director and retreat leader at Blessed Trinity Shrine Retreat in Holy Trinity, Alabama. Sister Gail also has served as a professional social worker, campus minister, pastoral minister and spiri-
tual guide throughout the United States and Jamaica, West Indies. For more information or to preregister, contact Marie Ruggiero at 334-704-3125. Babysitting will be provided and people must preregister by Dec. 5. Otherwise, preregistration is appreciated but not required.
Lambert
OBITUARIES Laurie Southers Williams Laurie Southers Williams joined her father, Bill Southers, in heaven on Nov. 11, 2019. Laurie was born and raised in Opelika, Alabama and was an avid Auburn fan. She led a colorful life filled with adventures. She was always smiling, even when faced with adversity. To know her was to be her friend, as she never met a stranger. Throughout her journey with cancer, she was able to comfort and lead numerous other people through the ups and downs of treatment and in turn touched an immeasurable amount of lives. Laurie had an extensive list of friends and was a mother to four children and three grandchildren Angela Ingram Barreto Funeral services for Ms. Angela Ingram Barreto of Opelika were Nov. 19, 2019, at 11 a.m. at JeffcoatTrant Funeral Home. Burial was in Garden Hills Cemetery. The reverend Tommy Ray officiated. Visitation was Nov 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home. Ms. Barreto, who died Friday, Nov. 15, 2019, at East Alabama Medical Center was born May 12, 1965, in Montgomery. She was an extraordinary mother, sister, daughter, friend, and care taker. Many described John 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 Nov. 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
to whom she was the biggest cheerleader. Though her family and friends are mourning the loss of such an incredible human, heaven is certainly rejoicing as she returns home. She is survived by her husband, Warner, her children, Lindsey Colvin (Robert Colvin), Adam Pickren, Maggie Williams, and Bo Williams, her mother, Doris Southers, her three grandchildren, Junah Leigh, Evie, and Rhett, as well as countless close friends and loved ones. Visitation was at First United Methodist Church in Opelika, at 10 o’clock in the morning on Nov. 15 with the memorial service immediately following at 11. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home directed. her as joyful, hilarious, hardworking, and selfless. Her smile could light up the room and was contagious to those around her. Her charming presence was illuminating and will never be forgotten. Her career in nursing allowed her to do things she enjoyed most, take care of others and shop. She is survived by her parents Charles and Annette Ingram; daughters: Bethany Barreto (Mitchell Birchfield), and Lauren Barreto; son, Hunter Barreto, and brother Jeffery Ingram. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed. buddy, Judson Cherry; brother, Thomas McFarland 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 was held Nov. 14, 2019 in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home from 11 a.m. until noon. A funeral service was held in the Chapel at Frederick-Dean Funeral Home noon on Nov. 14, 2019 with Reverend Larry Doster officiating. Interment followed at Garden Hills Cemetery.
Leonard (Len) McCoy Brasher Leonard (Len) McCoy Brasher age 79 of Opelika, Al 36801 a long time fisherman and an avid Opelika Bulldog and for sure a lifelong Alabama fan, was caught up by the Fisher of Men on Nov. 13, 2019. Leonard was born in Brighton, Alabama on August 27, 1940. He was the middle son of Spencer McCoy Brasher and Elsie C. Brasher. Leonard grew up in Lipscomb, Alabama. He graduated from Jones Valley High School in 1958 having attended 12 years of school without ever missing a day. He worked for some 14 years for Coca-Cola in Birmingham where he was awarded Distinguished Salesman of the Year for 1975. He also Billy Ray Chance Mr. Billy Ray Chance, 80, of Opelika, passed away Nov 12 at his residence. His funeral service was at 11 a.m., on Nov. 16 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Chapel, with visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. on Nov. 15. Burial was in Garden Hills Cemetery. Mr. Chance was preceded in death by his son Billy Ray Chance Jr.; mother Vera Chance; father Milton Chance; Mary Adaline Stephens Mims On Nov.11, 2019 Mary Adaline Stephens Mims went to be with her Lord & Savior. She will be missed by many here on earth but has now rejoined with so many more family and friends who preceded her in going home to the Lord, especially her husband Douglas Mims and her daughter, Regina (Gina) Dawn Mims. She is leaving behind many family and friends. Her daughter Paula Mims Bracewell and husband Robert Bracewell and their family. Her most beloved granddaughter, Beth Allison Gibson and Scott
worked in sales for Budweiser for 7 years after leaving Coca-Cola. Following his time with Budweiser, he moved to Tallahasse, Florida where he lived on Lake Miccosukee and guided out of the Holiday Inn for several years and also worked for Hill-Brooks Coffee. In the early 80’s Leonard moved to Houston, Texas where he continued to work in the Coffee Service Business. In 1989, shortly after the loss of his father, he returned to Alabama and came to Opelika where his mom and two brothers resided. In Opelika he met his parent’s neighbor, a young single mom with 3 boys, fell in love with her and asked for her hand in marriage. They were married on Feb. 12, 1990 and Leonard became an Opelikan by choice.
The memories of the past almost thirty years are many and precious as Leonard and Louise watch her boys grow to manhood and Len by the Grace of God was able to reconnect and renew relationships with his three sons and the many childhood friends he left behind in Lipscomb. For some 17 years he worked and supported the OHS Spirit of the South Marching Band and the Opelika Sports Booster Club. On Friday evenings he would also be found with his very special friend, Michael Melnick, working the back gate at Bulldog Stadium. For the past several years he has dealt with numerous health issues that slowed this full of energy guy down. These past six months he has eluded the Fisher of Men and let go of the line a number of times
but Praise the Lord, the Fisher of Men never gives up and as of this past Wednesday Leonard Brasher is home with the Lord. Survivors include his wife, Louise Story Brasher, his three sons Leslie Brasher Agro of South Carolina, Christopher Layne Brasher of Tennessee, and Nikolas Len Brasher of Texas, his three bonus sons Kip Walker, Kris Walker (Tori), Kurt Walker (Heather), grandchildren Ashley Shannon Agro, Leslie Bryan Agro, Sawyer Thomas Agro, Corbett Walker, Jaeden Walker, Rylee Walker, Brena Walker, Maggie Walker, Mary Louise Walker, Samuel Walker, Thomas Walker. He was preceded in death by his mom, his dad and his two brothers, Leland and L.J. Papa Len, we loved you but God loved you more.
brothers: Wayne Chance, Bernard Chance; and wife Shirley Waller Chance. He is survived by his wife: Geraldine Quinton Chance; daughters: Connie Chance Smith (Ronald) of Ormond Beach, Florida, Beverly Chance Rowell (Greg) of Melbourne, Florida; grandchildren: Sarah Smith Underwood (Ryan) of Savannah, Georgia, Aaron Smith of Ormond Beach, Florida, Asheton Rowell of
Melbourne, Florida; and by a number of beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. Billy Ray Chance was a lifelong resident of Opelika, Alabama. He was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church where he served in the Carpenter’s for Christ Ministry, and was instrumental in founding a Laotian Children’s Ministry with his late wife Shirley Waller Chance. He was also a past member of
the Lion’s Club of Opelika, and a member of the Morning Roundtable at Susie K’s. As a young man he played farm league baseball and was an avid lifelong Atlanta Braves fan as well as an Auburn Tigers fan. He is also known as “Uncle Bill” to many biological children as well as non-biological children throughout the Auburn Opelika area. Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home and Crematory directed.
Gibson, their children Joey, Jack and John. Amanda Bracewell Gallatin and husband Brandon Gallatin and their children Scout and Pepper. Matthew Bracewell and fiance’ Andrea Morabito. Her son Dwayne Douglas Mims and wife Regina Mims and their children and grandchildren, Justin Mims, Jessee Mims and children Madison, Matthew, and Ryleigh, Maegan Short and daughter Harper, Brittany Short, Summer McBride and son Jayden, Savannah McBride and children Carson, Blakley, and Alaya. Mary grew up in Magee, MS. She was born on August
20, 1933 and was the youngest of 5 children to Charlie Odus and Mattie May Butler Stephens. She attended Mississippi Southern College (now University of Southern Mississippi) and obtained a Bachelors degree in Secretarial Science in 1954. She met her husband of 62 years at Southern. He preceded her in death on November 16, 2016. They are now together again, worshipping God together as they did for so many years here on earth. The family would like to recognize and thank some of the special caregivers who helped in the care of Mary over the past 6 years. Paula
Taylor of Cleveland, Georgia, Niki Rougier of Opelika, Alabama, Sha’Quinta Marshall, Yvette Johnson, Shyanna James, Sha’Neece Hill all of Arbors Springs Health and Rehab, and a very special friend and prayer warrior, Pam Harris of Pine Mountain, Georgia. Visitation was held Nov. 14, 2019 in the Parlor at FrederickDean Funeral Home from 6 to 8 p.m. A funeral service was held in the Chapel at FrederickDean Funeral Home Nov. 16, 2019 at 10 a.m. followed by a graveside service at Elmwood Cemetery in Birmingham, Alabama at 3:00 p.m.
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Nov. 20, 2019
eligion
God’s holiness and our hope
saiah felt undone in God’s presence (Isaiah 6) and that’s not a terrible thing. If the biblical witness teaches us anything, it is that while God is wholly approachable through Jesus, He is nonetheless holy, and we neglect this truth to our spiritual detriment. God’s holiness is often misunderstood. It is equated with purity and God is viewed as a distant, detached, intolerant deity who can’t have anything to do with us due to our sinfulness. (You have to ignore a massive amount of Scripture to end up with such a small view of God). For the tender-hearted, this kind of think-
ing can be crushing. No one needs to tell them that they sin and fall short of the glory of God—they know that! What they need is assurance that despite their selfdespised waywardness there is hope for them. And there is. God’s holiness is our hope. God’s holiness is His wholeness. He is complete and transcendent in every way. He is what we aren’t because we are fragmented and broken by sin. He is, as the song says, perfect in power, in love in purity. Rather than thinking about God’s holiness as a single attribute (like kindness or an-
By Bruce Green Teaching Minister at 10th Street Church of Christ in Opelika
ger), we need to view it as the composite of His character. His love is whole, His justice is perfect, His grace and mercy are complete. Holiness is the rainbow of God’s perfect attributes. Because God is holy, He will always do what is right, good and true. In the world’s ever-shifting sands of morality, God is the rock that doesn’t move.
Church calendar
• Pepperell Baptist’s youth program meets on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 7 p.m. This is an evening of prayer, Bible Study and discussion. For more information, contact youth and children’s pastor Ryno Jones at 334-7453108. • Dec. 1 - Trinity United Methodist Church’s “Hanging of the Greens” service will be held Dec. 1 and begin at 4 p.m. • Dec. 6 - First Baptist Church Opelika will be holding a “Parent’s Evening Out” for parents of children
Catch ‘On the Mark’ with D. Mark Mitchell and Jeff Sasser weekday mornings from 7-9 a.m.
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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. #444-5148 Antioch Baptist Church 605 W. East Morton Ave #742-0696 Bethesda Baptist Church 201 S. 4th St. #745-7528 Bethel Baptist Church Hwy. 29 Sasser Rd #745-4865 Central Baptist Church 1611 2nd Ave. #745-2482 Community Baptist Church 154 N. 16th St. #745-6552 Cornerstone Missionary Baptist 500 N. Railroad Ave. #742-2008 Eastview Baptist Church 1208 Spring Dr #749-9595 Farmville Baptist Church 3607 Alabama Hwy N. #887-7361 First Baptist Church of Opelika
314 S. 9th St. #745-6143 First Baptist Church 301 S. 8th St. #745-5715 First Baptist Church Impact 709 Avenue E #741-0624 First Freewill Baptist Church 103 19th St. #703-3333 Friendship Missionary Baptist 432 Maple Avenue #742-0105 Greater Peace Baptist Church 650 Jeter Ave. #749-9487 Heritage Baptist Church 1103 Glenn St. #363-8943 High Hope Baptist Church 227 Lee Road 673 Liberty Baptist Church 2701 West Point Pkwy #749-9632 Love Freewill Baptist Church 1113 Frederick Ave. #745-2905 Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1098 Lee Road 155 #334-745-3600 Northside Baptist Church 3001 Lafayette Hwy #745-5340 Pepperell Baptist Church 2702 2nd Ave. #745-3108 Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Uniroyal Rd #749-2773 Providence Baptist Church 2807 Lee Rd 166 #745-0807 Purpose Baptist Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #704-0302 St. James Baptist Church 1335 Auburn St. #745-3224 Union Grove Missionary Baptist 908 Huguley Rd #741-7770 BUDDHIST Buddha Heart Village 3170 Sandhill Rd. #821-7238
we build on. He won’t enable us, coddle us, humor us or insult us with “the soft bigotry of low expectations” (Michael Gerson). He will call us to be what He is - holy. God’s holiness is our hope because this is precisely what we need. What we really need isn’t the latest upgrade, the coolest app, the trendiest clothing, another selfie, another trip, or more likes—we need a holy God who can make us whole. The truth is, if God isn’t holy, then we have no hope. Bruce has written an entry level book on Revelation called The Thrill of Hope. It is available through Amazon.
Verse of the Week
with disabilities. To register or for more information, call 334745-5715. The church is located at 301 S. 8th St. • Dec. 8, 15, 18, 20 and 24 - First Baptist Church of Opelika will be holding a number of Christmasthemed performances and services to celebrate and welcome in the holiday season. For more information, call 334-745-5715 or visit www.fbcopelika. com. Events can be emailed to the Observer at editor@opelikaobserver. com.
God doesn’t correspond with the truth— He is the truth. God doesn’t submit Himself to what is right because it doesn’t exist independently of Him. What is right is what corresponds with His character. But how does all of this give us hope? It’s quite simple. Because God is who He is, when He tells us we can draw near to Him through the sacrifice of His Son, we have absolutely no doubts. When He offers us forgiveness and life, we know He’s not playing games. When He tells us He loves us, we understand it’s the real thing. This “hard side” of God is what
“David also said to Solomon his son, ‘Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the Lord is finished.’”
1 Chronicles 28:20
CATHOLIC St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1000 4th Ave. #749-8359 CHURCH OF CHRIST Church of Christ 2215 Marvyn Pkwy #742-9721 10th Street Church of Christ 500 N. 10th St. #745-5181 Southside Church of Christ 405 Carver Ave. #745-6015 Church of Christ 2660 Cunningham Drive CHURCH OF GOD Airview Church of God 3015 Old Opelika Rd #749-9112 Church of God 114 17th Place #7496432 Tabernacle Church of God 3 Oak Court #745-7979 CHURCH OF NAZARENE Opelika Church of Nazarene 1500 Bruce Ave. #749-1302 EPISCOPAL Emmanuel Episcopal Church 800 1st Ave. #745-2054 HOLINESS Eastside Emmanuel Holiness Church 86 Lee Road 186 Opelika, Ala. 36804 JEWISH Beth Shalom Congregation 134 S. Cary Dr. #826-1050 LATTERDAY SAINTS Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints 510 Groce St. #742-9981 METHODIST First United Methodist Church of Opelika 702 Avenue A #745-7604 Hopewell United Methodist 1993 Lee Rd 136 #745-0460 Pierce Chapel United Methodist
8685 AL Hwy. 51 #749-4469 Pepperell United Methodist 200 26th St. #745-9334 Trinity United Methodist Church 800 Second Ave. #745-2632 Wesley Memorial United Methodist 2506 Marvyn Pkwy #745-2841 PENTECOSTAL Full Gospel Pentecostal Church Hwy. 29, PO Box 1691 #741-8675 Gateway Community Church 2715 Frederick Rd #745-6926 PRESBYTERIAN First Presbyterian Church of Opelika 900 2nd Ave. #745-3421 Trinity Presbyterian Church 1010 India Rd #745-4889 SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist 1808 S. Long St. #749-3151 NON-DENOMINATIONAL Apostolic Holiness Church 610 Canton St. #749-6759 Auburn Opelika Korean Church 1800 Rocky Brook Rd #749-5386 Beauregard Full Gospel Revival 2089 Lee Road 42 #745-0455 Christ Church International 1311 2nd Ave. #745-0832 Church of the Harvest 2520 Society Hill Rd #745-2247 Church at Opelika 1901 Waverly Pkwy #705-0505 East Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Emmanuel Temple of Deliverance 207 S. Railroad Ave. #745-6430 Faith Alliance Church 3211 Waverly Pkwy #749-9516 Faith Christian Center 600 S. 8th St. Faith Church 3920 Marvyn Pkwy #707-3922 Family Life Christian Center
601 S. 7th St. #741-7013 Father’s House Christian Fellowship 214 Morris Ave. #749-1070 Fellowship Bible Church 2202 Hamilton Rd #749-1445 Ferguson Chapel Church 310 S. 4th St. #745-2913 First Assembly of God Church 510 Simmons St. #749-3722 Garden of Gethsemane Fellowship 915 Old Columbus Rd #745-2686 Grace Heritage Church Opelika #559-0846 Holy Deliverance Church 831 S. Railroad #749-5682 Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 1250 McCoy St. #737-1488 Living Way Ministries 1100 Old Columbus Rd #749-6241 Move of God Fellowship Church 1119 Old Columbus Rd #741-1006 Connect Church 2900 Waverly Pkwy #749-3916 New Life Christian Center 2051 West Point Pkwy #741-7373 New Life Independent Church 10 Meadowview Estates Trailer 741-9001 Opelika’s First Seventh Day 2011 Columbus Pkwy #737-3222 Power of Praise, Inc. Church 3811 Marvyn Pkwy #745-6136 Shady Grove Christian Church West Point Hwy #745-7770
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A14 Nov. 20, 2019
Community Calendar: Events around town
• Nov. 20 - Magnificent Trip to Spain Informational Meeting at noon • Nov. 21 - Maximize Your Membership Workshop at 8:15 a.m.
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-
Upcoming Events • Nov. 19 at 5 p.m. - Kids eat for 99 cents at Niffer’s • Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. - Brains and Brews Trivia at Red Clay Brewing •Nov. 19 at 5 p.m. - Burger Night with half-pounder burgers and a side for $6.99 at Niffer’s • Nov. 19 at 5 p.m. - Wine Down Wednesday at The Bottling Plant Event Center • 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. • Nov. 20: Build your own burger and side starting at $5 at La Cantina • Nov. 20 at 7 p.m. - Trivia Night at Niffer’s • Nov. 22 at 9 p.m. - The Mix Tape at The Corner Bar
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
The Gogue Performing Arts Center presents Baby Shark Live! April 22; Tickets go on sale Nov. 22 Special to the Opelika Observer The Gogue Center will present Baby Shark Live! at the Woltosz Theatre on April 22, 2020! Get ready to take an adventure with Baby Shark as he joins up with his
friend Pinkfong to sing and dance through some of your favorite new and classic songs. This one-of-a-kind concert experience will have fans of all ages dancing in the aisles. Tickets go on sale to the general public this Nov. 22 at 10 a.m.
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.
Gospel Singing to be held Nov. 23 to benefit Taylor Osborn
Special to the Opelika Observer A benefit concert filled with gospel music will be held on Nov. 23 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the Pepperell Methodist Church which is located at 200 26th St. in Opelika. The concert is being held by the HOPE organization and proceeds will be used to help purchase a wheelchair accesible van for Taylor Os-
born. Tickets are $5 and children under 12 can attend for free. Groups performing include: - Alicia McLeod - Mortar Creek Redemption Company - Seekers Quartet - Tina Marie - William D. Harry Also during the event, the group will be selling “Share the Love” t-shirts for $15. For more information call 334-7401991.
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Auburn-Opelika Elks Lodge #1834 honors veterans with luncheon on Nov. 13
Photos and story by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer The Auburn-Opelika Elks Lodge #1834 welcomed veterans on Nov. 13 for a luncheon to honor to those that have served the nation. The Elks invited veterans with a special invitation going out to the Tuskegee VA Hospital and local retirement homes. Nearly 80 veterans attended the luncheon, which featured barbecue. They were recognized for their service by mayors Ron Anders and Gary Fuller. After the meal there was fellowship as the veterans visited and spoke of the service days and karaoke. As they were leaving, they were given a gift bag to show appreciation for their service to the country. The local Elks Lodge has held this event on an annual basis plus many other events throughout the year for veterans. One service is providing leather gloves to all veterans, which are worn by the veterans to protect their hands as they use their wheelchairs.
Safely thawing your holiday turkey By Victoria Dee Special to the Opelika Observer Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and the star of the holiday table is the turkey. Before it makes its way to the table, your turkey must be properly thawed and prepared. Depending on the size of the bird, the process could take anywhere from several hours to several days to thaw completely. An Alabama Extension professional offer tips on thawing your turkey this holiday season. “Though you do not have to thaw the turkey prior to cooking it, it will take about 50 percent longer to cook from frozen state than when completely defrosted,” said Bridgette Brannon, an Alabama Extension regional food safety agent. Thawing in the Microwave When thawing a turkey in the microwave, it is important to refer to the manual. This will tell you what size turkey will fit in your microwave, minutes per pound required for that bird and the power level to use to fully thaw it. Microwave the turkey breast side down on a microwavesafe dish on defrost for one-fourth of the suggested thawing time. Check for warm areas, such as tips and wings, and shield them.
The turkey should then be moved breast side up, and defrosting should continue for another one-fourth of the time before rotating again and finishing the defrosting process. “Upon thawing a turkey in the microwave, it should be cooked immediately,” Brannon said. Thawing in the Refrigerator According to Brannon, the safest way to thaw a turkey is in the refrigerator. A turkey being thawed in the refrigerator should be kept in its packaging. This prevents cross-contamination with other items that it may come into contact with. The bird should be placed on a pan on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. Allow 24 hours of thawing time for every four to five pounds of turkey. “You can keep the turkey in the refrigerator for up to two days if thawed correctly. If you are refreezing it, this must be done within two days of thawing,” Brannon said. Food Safety Brannon warns cooks to beware of the temperature danger zone when thawing frozen turkeys. This zone is between 41 and 135 degrees Fahrenheit. In this zone, patho-
gens can grow very quickly. For this reason, the turkey should not be thawed at room temperature. It is important to ensure that it is thawed correctly under temperature control. Brannon offers the following tips to ensure food safety when preparing your turkey this holiday season. • Ensure that the turkey is thawed at the proper temperature. • Everything that comes in contact with the turkey should be washed in warm, soapy water. • After the turkey is thawed and prior to cooking it, the giblets should be removed from the cavity and cooked separately. • When preparing the turkey, do not cook it at a temperature lower than 325 degrees. • It is recommended to cook the stuffing in a pan separate from the turkey, not inside of the bird’s cavity. • The turkey and dressing must be cooked to a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. When testing the temperature of the bird, check several spots to ensure that the bird is cooked evenly throughout. These spots should include the innermost part of the thigh and wing, as well as the thickest part of the breast.
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A16 Nov. 20, 2019
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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
Friday’s Football Schedule Opelika at Hueytown @ 7 p.m. Auburn at Central @ 7 p.m.
Rep. Jeremy Gray presents community service grants to Opelika City Schools
On the Mark By D. Mark Mitchell
Opelika defeats St. Paul’s, travels to Hueytown Friday
T
he Opelika High School football team beat St. Paul’s 20-10 in the second round of the AHSAA 6A State Playoffs last Friday at Bulldog Stadium. The two teams battled in the cold on a wet turf in front of a small but faithful crowd. Both teams went scoreless in the first quarter, but the Saints took the lead on a 34-yard TD run by Reggie Bracy with 11:29 left in the second quarter. St Paul’s tried to add three points to the lead, attempting a short field goal on the last play of the first half. Jaylen Stinson blocked the kick, picked up the football and returned it 70 yards for the Opelika touchdown as time expired in the second quarter. The ensuing PAT was no good, leaving St. Paul’s with a 7-6 lead at halftime. The Saints added a 34-yard field goal by Grayson Miles to extend their lead to 10-6 with 3:49 left in the third quarter. The Bulldogs took the lead after Eric Watts scored on a one-yard run and Rowton added the PAT to make the score 13-10, with nine
seconds left in the third quarter. Opelika’s defense held St. Paul’s to fewer than 90 yards of offense in the second half which allowed the comeback and win. Watts scored his second TD of the game on a one-yard run with three minutes left in the game. Rowton added his second PAT to give Opelika a 20-10 lead and final score. The Bulldogs travel to Hueytown Friday night in the quarterfinal round of the AHSAA playoffs. The Golden Gophers enter with an 11-1 record, including playoff wins over Selma 44-24 and Eufaula 56-49 in overtime last Friday night. Hueytown defeated the following teams in the regular season: Homewood 32-19, Helena 32-24, Hillcrest Tuscaloosa 39-17, Brookwood 48-6, Cullman 33-16, Northridge 42-14, Bessemer City 56-7, McAdory 34-20 and Paul Bryant 38-21. The Golden Gophers’ only loss happened in a 7-0 Week 10 loss to Briarwood. Hueytown features See Sports, page B5
Photos submitted to the Opelika Observer Gray presented Southview Primary, Jeter Primary, West Forest Intermediate and Carver Primary principals with community service grants on Oct. 17. Pictured with Gray and Jeter Primary students from left to right are: Mary Salmon, Southview Primary Principal; David Carpenter, Jeter Primary principal, Pam Fourtenbary, West Forest principal and Joe Ross, Carver Primary principal.
Rep. Jeremy Gray presented Opelika High School with a community service grant to be disbursed to OHS Athletics,the Opelika Learning Center and OHS Career Tech. Pictured with Gray from left to right: Katie Murray, OCS Secondary Curriculum Coordinator and Career Tech Director; Mandi Edwards, OHS Career Tech Department Head; Mike Pugh, OHS Athletic Director and Tony Hoyett-Assistant Principal of the OLC.
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Opelika relies on defense, special teams to edge St. Paul’s 20-10 Friday
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
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.
Senior Opelika High School swimmer signs scholarship with Arkansas last week
Senior defensive end Kani Kellum was selected as the Opelika Player of the Week. In Friday’s 20-10 win over St. Paul’s, he finished with a seven tackles, sack and two tackles for a loss.
IT’S THE OPELIKA WAY.
GO DAWGS! #myOpelika • #beOpelika www.opelika-al.gov 2018 observer
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer Opelika High School senior Bradi Jones officially inked her swimming scholarship with the University of Arkansas in a signing ceremony Wednesday morning. Pictured front row left to right: Billy Jones (father), Bradi Jones and Karen Jones (mother). Second row left to right: Mandy Johnson, Brodie Jones-brother, Railey Jones (sister) and McKay Yountz (cousin). Third row left to right: Tyler McGill (city of Opelika’s swim coach), Adrian Yountz (uncle), Sandy Yountz (grandmother), Taylor Jones (brother), Karen Bush (OHS Swim Team Sponsor) and Mike Pugh (OHS athletic director).
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Thankfulness is a family affair!
Beth Pinyerd
R
ight after Halloween and harvest festivals, it seems like Christmas just busts into the commercial world! Wait! Where is Thanksgiving? As parents and teachers, how can we preserve Thanksgiving in the hearts of our children for now and in the future? Reflections upon the year, and having hope for the future, establish gratitude and thankfulness for families in order to provide a valuable Thanksgiving lesson for our children to learn. We
have a whole week to take teachable moments as Thanksgiving approaches. “Lest you Forget” is a way to connect our Thanksgiving celebration to the first harvest feast and celebration that brought the Pilgrims and Native Americans together. This special time of looking back at history can be enhanced by reading books to your children. There are valuable resources with pictures that you can share with
your children about the first Thanksgiving. This is a good time to share of your own family history and traditions. Children love to hear stories of when their parents and grandparents were children having Thanksgiving. Children love to write and draw things they are thankful for. Give your child simple post-it notes to write or draw what they are thankful for. These can be posted on the refrigerator, doors, walls, mirrors, etc. to remind families how blessed they are. Children love to do hand turkeys with fingers as the feathers. On each feather, the children can write and draw what they are thankful for. We don’t have to look very far to give and share with a person in need. I have a next-door neighbor who is a mother of two young boys who look for ways to help others. When I drive up with groceries or heavy book
bags, these two boys help me unload my trunk to take heavy bags into my home. This truly encourages me and warms my heart. Opening a door for an older person or helping a person who is disabled by rolling a grocery cart for them when they enter a store are simple acts of kindness that mean so much. These are simple acts of kindness and life lessons that are easy for a child to learn and children feel the happiness and joy of helping someone else. As parents, caregivers, and teachers of young children, it is so important to begin teaching children manners at his age. When serving snacks to 3-year-olds, I love to hear them say thank you. When asking for something, teaching a young child to say “please” as well as saying “I’m sorry” when doing something wrong is instilling good manners into a child’s life.
Manners help so much in interactions with others. As parents and teachers, we are the best model a child has in understanding gratitude. Being thankful for the big and little things in life by verbally expressing this is a simple act that will bring joy and happiness for your child to model and understand. Being conscious to thank your child for the little things they do for you encourages them to want to help more. As Thanksgiving approaches, be sure to include your children in family projects. Having them help you with simple tasks in meal preparation as well as outreaching to others creates a lot of Thanksgiving togetherness as a family. During the Thanksgiving holidays next week, be sure to stop and be thankful for God’s many blessings. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving! 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 Opelika and Baldwin County. She holds a master’s degree in early childhood education as well as a bachelor’s degree in family and child development, both from Auburn University. Her husband is the late Carl Pinyerd and she has one son, Gus Pinyerd who has taught her so much about learning. The Classroom Observer is here to serve the community in sharing the wonderful teaching programs in our local public schools, private schools, and homeschools. The column is provided to enrich the education of our children, youth and families. Classroom Observer welcomes educational news, school news, pictures and events by e-mailing her at donnapinyerd@charter.net.
AHSAA announces 2021-2032 sites for Super 7 Alabama’s state high school championships create a new three-venue rotation starting in 2021 Special to the Opelika Observer The future of the AHSAA’s Super 7 State High School Football Championships has been set for the years 2021-2032, pending final approvals in process from the AHSAA and community partners. The new structure continues the tradition of using the state’s premier football venues as the backdrop for student-athletes in all seven AHSAA classifications to compete for their football state title each year. “It is with great pride that we announce the continuation of Super 7 for 2021-2032 and our partnership with the communities of Auburn-Opelika, Tuscaloosa, and now Birmingham,” said AHSAA’s Executive Director Steve Savarese. “The communities of AuburnOpelika and Tuscaloosa helped the AHSAA take this event to a new level in 2009 and created the standard of excellence for hosting that is unmatched across high school athletics. The AHSAA is grateful for Auburn-Opelika and Tuscaloosa embracing a new idea to include Birmingham in the rotation which will now provide three high quality venues for our member schools to showcase their football programs at the end of each season.”
The 2021 event will begin the new threecommunity rotation as the newly constructed Protective Life Stadium in downtown Birmingham will host its first Super 7 Dec. 1 to 3, 2021 and following years in 2024, 2027 and 2030. The 2021 event will mark the return of the state high school football championships to Birmingham for the first time since 2008, when Birmingham last hosted the event in its Super 6 format at historic Legion Field, where the championships were played from 1996 to 2008. Legion Field also was host to the large-school championship game from 1971 to 1995. “We are pleased to see the AHSAA Super 7 return to the city where it began more than 20 years ago,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin. “The Super 7 showcases the best of high school athletics in Alabama, and Birmingham is excited to be a host city once again. As a progressive city focused on building a better future for our young people, we look forward to working closely with the AHSAA to celebrate championship-caliber high school sports for years to come.” Auburn University’s Jordan-Hare Stadium and the cities of Auburn and Opelika will follow as
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hosts in 2022 as well as 2026, 2028 and 2032. “I am pleased that our city council voted on Nov. 5 to continue partnering alongside the city of Auburn and Auburn University to utilize Jordan-Hare Stadium to host the AHSAA Super 7 in 2022 and future years. The city of Opelika takes great pride in celebrating high school athletics in all of our local schools and that extends to hosting other communities from around the state when it is their turn to try and win a championship trophy,” said Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller. At Auburn, participating schools from across the state take part in rich Auburn game day traditions including the Tiger Walk and pre-game eagle flight in conjunction with each state championship game. “Following the completion of our final approval processes, the city of Auburn is excited to continue the great tradition of hosting this major event for our state inside Jordan-
Hare Stadium in 2022 and beyond. Together with our partners locally including Auburn University and the city of Opelika, we will work tirelessly each year to welcome these amazing student-athletes, coaches, schools and their fans in to our community to celebrate their amazing seasons and crown new state champions,” said Auburn Mayor Ron Anders. Tuscaloosa and the University of Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium will take its place in the 2021 to 2032 rotation hosting in 2023, 2025, 2029 and 2031. As a host,
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Alabama’s legendary teams and coaches are on display during the Walk of Champions as each team arrives at Super 7 in addition to the major stadium renovations scheduled to begin following the 2019 season. Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox echoed his sentiments about the new rotation plan. “High school sports offer a unique place where life lessons are taught, the spirit of competition is cultivated, and the will to work towards excellence is engrained,” Maddox said. “The city of Tusca-
loosa and the University of Alabama have always been synonymous with great football and striving towards excellence, and we want to continue that tradition by offering the opportunity for our youth across the state to continue to come to our city to play in the same arena as some of the greats who have come before them. Tuscaloosa has been a host of the Super 6 since 2009, and we want to continue to be a part of the Super 7 in our state in future years.” See AHSAA, page B6
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‘Jason Witten Collegiate Man Of The Year’ announces Auburn’s Derrick Brown as semifinalist for third-annual award
Award to honor exemplary leadership by a college player Special to the Opelika Observer The semifinalists for the third annual Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year were announced last week, a group that includes 20 of the nation’s top leaders in college football, including Auburn’s Derrick Brown. Compiled by a subset of the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Selection Committee, the semifinalists have all demonstrated a record of leadership by exhibiting exceptional courage, integrity and sportsmanship both on and off the field. Seventeen seniors and three juniors make up the list. Among conferences,
the ACC, Big 12 and SEC led the way with four selections each, while the Big Ten had three. The Pac-12 and American Athletic Conference each had two and the Mountain West also had one semifinalist. Three finalists will be named for the award on Dec. 16. The winner will be announced at the award ceremony on Feb. 18, 2020 at The Star in Frisco, Texas. Last year, Wisconsin’s D’Cota Dixon won the award. The inaugural Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year was presented to Shaquem Griffin of UCF in 2017. The award, presented by Albertsons and Tom Thumb, is the
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first college football honor to focus primarily on a player’s leadership, both on and off the field. Leadership is a term synonymous with Jason Witten, who, in addition to becoming one of the best tight ends in the history of the sport and the Cowboys’ all-time leading receiver, has served as one of football’s most prominent role models during his 16-year pro career. In addition to winning the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2012, Witten also received the Bart Starr Award, Pro Football Weekly’s Humanitarian of the Year Award, Home Depot NFL Neighborhood MVP and the Bob Lilly Award, among many others. All of those honors have recognized his work in the community, achievements on the field and dedication to his teammates and family. “It’s my honor to announce this impressive group of student-athletes as semifinalists for the third annual Collegiate Man of the Year,” Witten said. “All of these young men are shining examples of what makes college football great. They have demonstrated exceptional character and leadership, often while overcoming
Photo by Todd van Emst/Auburn University Athletics large challenges. They are great representatives for the game of football, and I commend all nominees for getting to this point.” The winner of the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year will also receive a $10,000 contribution in his name to his school’s athletic scholarship fund. The contribution will be made by Jason Witten’s SCORE Foundation, the official charity of Jason and his wife Michelle. The SCORE Foundation, founded in 2007, has positively impacted tens of thousands of children and families
in Texas and Tennessee during the last 12 years. The foundation operates its nationally-recognized SCOREkeepers program, which places trained male mentors on staff to work with children at family violence shelters, at nine shelters in the two states. Derrick Brown, Auburn (Sr., Defensive Lineman) One of the nation’s top defensive players, Brown was a finalist for last year’s Man of the Year award. He is a not only a force on the field, but an incredible leader off the field as well. He is
a member of the SEC Academic Honor Roll and a member of the SEC Student- Athlete Leadership Council for football. He serves as Auburn SAAC vice-president and has done Christian-based mission work in the Dominican Republic and also spent time building homes in Montgomery and Auburn with his church. Brown has been heavily involved with other community projects like Angel Trees, Toys for Tots, campus Student-Athlete Day, the Beat Bama food drive, Halloween Trunk or Treat and SAAC clothing drive.
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Lee-Scott anglers Hagan Marlin and Dylan Ingram reel in big haul at Lake Eufaula Tournament Special to the Opelika Observer
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer
Sports, from B1 one of the top running backs in the Alabama in Roydell Williams (a University of Alabama commit) and an offense that scored 454 points while allowing only 224 points on defense. On the other hand, Opelika scored 351 points but only allowed 182 yards. The Bulldogs have the better defense but Hueytown may have a slight edge in offense. Opelika has played the tougher schedule and has been in this type of game for many years. Look for the playoff experience and the consistent winning program of Opelika to pay dividends. The Bulldogs cannot have turnovers or big plays against the defense. The winner advanc-
es to play the winner of Park Crossing/ Spanish Fort on the road. Fans can listen to Hueytown v. Opelika Friday at 6:30 p.m. on WKKR 97.7 Kicker FM and online at kickerfm.com. OPELIKA BASKETBALL Opelika’s boys basketball team opened the season with a 79-76 loss at Beauregard last week. The Hornets led 20-15 after the first quarter, 39-32 at halftime, and 57-47 after the third quarter. Opelika outscored Beauregard 29-22 in the fourth quarter, tying the game with fewer than 30 seconds in the game. The Hornets nailed a three-pointer at the buzzer to beat Opelika by three points. Rashaad Frye led Opelika with a game-high 24 points, Brandon Howard scored 19, Grady Bynum notched 13 and Ja Carr added 12.
The boys played Carver in the opener of the newly renovated Mainstreet Gym inside Opelika. The game was not over by press time. The Lady Bulldogs’ basketball team (3-) blew out Beauregard 63-15 behind 16 points from Haley Sanders and Kaitlyn Bryant’s 13 points. The Lady Bulldogs also beat Hardaway of Columbus 62-44 last weekend behind 21 points from Claire Worth, 17 from Haley Sanders and 12 from Kaitlyn Bryant. Opelika lost 61-42 to Carrollton High (Georgia) but Sanders continued her hot shooting, scoring 15 points while Ananda Hughley added 10 points. ELECTRONIC BILLBOARD You may have noticed the electronic billboard next to Tom Bryan’s State Farm office and Jack’s restaurant advertising Opelika
On Nov. 15, Lee-Scott Academy anglers Hagan Marlin and Dylan Ingram, reeled in the big one (in more ways than one), on WSAT’s final tournament of the season at Lake Eufaula. Marlin and Ingram’s tournament weekend started with a prefishing/safety day that was windy, raining and in the 40s while they were on the water. They stayed strong through the adverse conditions and developed their plan. On tournament day, they landed their first fish before 8 a.m. A little over an hour later, they reeled in a 6.45 pound Eufaula toad. They spent the rest of their time trying different spots and while they caught more than 10 fish, only those first two met the limit of 14 inches or more. As they weighed in and watched the remainder of the competi-
High School football. According to OCS Public Relations Coordinator Becky Brown, the billboard was rented to advertise different aspects of Opelika City Schools including the OHTS’s performance
tion weigh in, they were a bundle of nerves. There was a lot riding on this tournament. Going into this tournament, they were in the lead for Angler of the Year title by three points. They knew that this was the second-place contender’s home lake. Marlin and Ingram finished in ninth place, with a total weight of 8.42 pounds. This gave them four top-10 finishes for the four tournaments on this trail. They won “Big Fish” with their 6.45 pounder. With only these two fish, they managed to stay on top and win “Angler Of the Year” awards for the Wiregrass Student Angler Trail. For more information about the Wiregrass Student Angler Trail, like and follow the organization’s Facebook page. To learn more about LeeScott Academy, visit www. lee-scott.org. The school is located at 1601 Academy Drive in Auburn.
of Annie earlier this fall and Opelika football. The board will feature advertisement for upcoming Christmas concerts by OCS students. She also stated the billboard will change throughout the year in hopes
of promoting Opelika City Schools. 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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Character Word of the Month Gratitude • n. the feeling of being thankful or grateful.
Program your thermostat to 68° or lower.
Set ceiling fans to run clockwise in winter.
For more ways to save by making your home more energy efficient, visit AlabamaPower.com/tips.
© 2019 Alabama Power Company
Raise your blinds to let the sun help heat your home.
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B6 Nov. 20, 2019
Auburn falls to the Georgia Bulldogs 21- 14 at Jordan-Hare Stadium Saturday Despite a 14-point fourth quarter, Auburn fell short of a comeback victory against Georgia in the 124th edition of “The Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry” Saturday. The Auburn defense limited Georgia’s offense to 251 total yards, but allowed them to score on each trip inside their own 40-yard line. Seth Williams led the way for Auburn offensively with 13 receptions for 121 yards. Another major storyline of the game was the sideline injury to University of Georgia student intern Chamberlain Smith, who was injured in a collision with Bulldog running back Brian Herrien. She was transported to East Alabama Medical Center and was later released. Smith said in a social media post that she plans to return to work for Georgia’s game Saturday v. Texas A&M.
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
AHSAA, from B3 Savarese thanked all three cities for their enthusiastic commitment to the AHSAA’s Super 7 Football Championship experience for its member schools.
“On behalf of our more than 400 member high schools and approximately 150,000 student-athletes this association serves, I want to sincerely thank the community partners who have pledged their support to make this idea a reality including the City of Tuscaloosa, Tusca-
loosa County, Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports, the University of Alabama, the City of Auburn, the City of Opelika, the AuburnOpelika Tourism Bureau, Auburn University, the City of Birmingham, the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and the BJCC. This
event not only highlights our football student-athletes and coaches, but provides an opportunity for members of bands, spirit programs, and the entire communities that these schools represent to be showcased annually at our state’s most iconic venues for which the AHSAA is truly grateful,” Savarese
said. ABOUT THE ALABAMA HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION: The Alabama High School Athletic Association, founded in 1921, is a private agency organized by its member schools to control and promote their
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 7:30 P.M. 334.844.TIXS (8497) GOGUECENTER.AUBURN.EDU
athletic programs. The purpose of the AHSAA is to regulate, coordinate and promote the interscholastic athletic programs among its member schools, which include public, private and parochial institutions. For more information on the AHSAA, visit www. ahsaa.com.
pelika Observer O
B7 Nov. 20, 2019
O Grows staff, volunteers installed new community garden at Lee County Youth Development Center’s satellite location last Saturday
Photos by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer
Cookie Walk Time Dec. 7, 2019
Auburn Opelika
8am-1pm
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
“WeHelp Coalition” to Benefit Habitat
for Humanity
We would Love to feature your Delectable Sweets along with an array of Beautifully decorated Christmas Cookies donated by neighbors throughout our community.
If you would like to volunteer with set up on Friday, Dec. 6 or Event day Dec. 7, please, email mark.a.grantham 310@gmail.com
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 )
Deliveries on: Friday, Dec. 6th,
2pm – 7pm
(around back in kitchen / fellowship hall)
Questions ? …Please contact: Donna Roberts Cookie Walk Committee Chairperson
cell: 334.329.4879
~ Thank you for your continued support ~
For more information and details visit www. auburnopelikahabitat.org and Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity on Facebook.
B8 Nov. 20, 2019
pelika Observer O
Beauregard stuns Opelika with last-minute score to win 79-76
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Wednesday, December 4th, 2019 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM Courthouse Square Reindog Parade • Inflatable Snowglobe Giving Back Sleigh • Inflatable Slide School Performances • Food Vendors Church Choir Competition • Artificial Snow Giveaways & More from EAMC *Official Tree Lighting*
pelika Observer O Lady Bulldogs decimate Beauregard 63-15 on the road last Thursday
B9
Nov. 20, 2019
Photos by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
pelika O Observer
B10 Nov. 20, 2019
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer
Auburn University celebrates Tommie Agee’s induction into Alabama Sports Hall of Fame last Saturday during Georgia game
PUBLIC NOTICES 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 Conservatorship 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
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
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-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 Opelika,
AL 36801 Legal Run 11/13, 11/20 & 11/27/19 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 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 11/13, 11/20 & 11/27
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 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
SYNOPSIS OF ZONING NOTICE 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, to consider the adoption of an ordinance to amend the Development Plan for Wyndham PUD. The owner, Opelika Gateway Properties,
LLC has heretofore submitted to the City Council a proposed Amended Development Plan for the area of Wyndham PUD located south of Gateway Drive and west of Marvyn Parkway. The Amended Development Plan provides for single-family homes, townhomes, apartments, commercial uses and over 115 acres of open space. Copies of the Amended Development Plan are open for public inspection in the offices of the Planning Department and the City Clerk. Public Notice of this public hearing with insertion of the proposed ordinance was first published on November 13 th , 2019 in the Opelika Observer. This notice is given pursuant to Section 11-52-78 Code of Alabama (1975). 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. THIS NOTICE is given under my hand this the 20th day of November, 2019. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA Legal Run 11/20/19
Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Department Plymouth Division Docket No. PL19W0297WD Summons By Publication and Mailing Winy Gomes, Plaintiff Demarcus Moore, Defendant To the above named Defendant: A Complaint has been presented to this Court by the Plaintiff, Winy Gomes, seeking custody and permission to apply for a passport for the parties minor child, Arya Divany Gomes. You are required to serve upon Winy Gomes - plaintiff - whose address is 37 Litchfield Terrace, Brockton, MA 02302 your answer on or before December 30, 2019. If you fail to do so, the court will proceed to the hearing and adjudication of this action. You are also required to file a copy of your answer in the office of the Register of this Court at Plymouth. Witness, Edward G. Boyle, III, Esquire, First Justice of said Court at Plymouth, this 28th day of October, 2019. Matthew J. McDonough, Register of Probate and Family Court Legal Run 11/20/19
ORDINANCE NO. 026-19 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 16-369 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA, RELATED TO PARKING REGULATIONS FOR DISABLED INDIVIDUALS WHEREAS, pursuant to Ordinance No. 117-14, adopted on June 7, 2014, the City Council adopted parking regulations for disabled persons, the provisions of which have been codified as Section 16-369 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Opelika (the “City Code”); and WHEREAS, the City Council deems it necessary to amend Section 16-369 of the City Code to bring it into compliance with §32-6-233.1 of the Code of Alabama (1975, as amended); and WHEREAS, City staff has recommended amendments to Section 16-369 of the City Code; and WHEREAS, the City Council
finds that the regulations herein adopted protect the health, safety and welfare of the general public. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council (the “Council”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama (the “City”) as follows: Section 1. Amendment. That Section 16-369 of the Code of Ordinances (the “Code”) of the City of Opelika, Alabama, is hereby amended to read as follows: Sec. 16-369 Parking Regulations for Disabled Individuals (a) Definitions. Whenever in this section the following items are used, they shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this subsection: “Access Aisle” shall mean the hash-marked or cross-striped space that is five feet or eight feet wide that is directly next to the assessible parking space. “Access aisle” also has the same definition as contained within the 2010 Accessible Design Standards within the ADA. Accessible Parking” shall mean parking spaces or areas designated and intended for persons with disabilities who have legally obtained handicapped plates, placards or decals and includes handicapped or disabled parking spaces or areas. The cross hatch area abutting an accessible parking space shall, for the purposes of this section, be considered part of the accessible parking space. “City” shall mean the City of Opelika, Alabama. “Distinctive Decal” shall mean license plate decal and special identification placard displaying the international symbol of access thereby designating the driver of a vehicle or a passenger as being a handicapped person and which are issued by the Judge of Probate, License Commissioner or other authorized issuing authority of the state or any foreign state. “Individual with long-term disability” shall have the meaning as ascribed in §32-6-230(1), Code of Alabama. “Individual with a temporary disability” shall have the meaning as ascribed in §32-6230(2), Code of Alabama. “Motor Vehicle” shall have the meaning as ascribed in §32-11.1(32), Code of Alabama. “Vehicle” shall have the meaning as ascribed in §32-1-1.1(82), Code of Alabama. (b) Designation of public parking spaces for persons with disabilities. The City Engineer is hereby authorized and directed to set aside a reasonable number of parking places within the central business district and in public parking areas to be used exclusively for the parking of motor vehicles transporting persons with disabilities. (c) Designation of spaces in privately owned parking lots. Businesses and privately owned facilities that provide goods or services have a continuing ADA obligation to remove barriers to access in private parking lots. The owners of said businesses and facilities are authorized, in accordance with ADA regulations, to designate certain parking spaces in privately owned parking lots to be used for the parking of motor vehicles transporting persons with disabilities. The regulations require compliance with the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design, outlining minimum accessibility requirements for buildings and facilities. The parking spaces so designated shall be subject to the same regulations as provided in this section. The cost of the sign and/or installation to designate such spaces for the disabled in privately owned parking lots shall be borne by the owner. (d) Markings and Signs. Each parking space reserved for disabled individuals shall be clearly and conspicuously marked by a sign bearing the international wheelchair symbol. Installation of the sign shall meet the requirements set out in the State Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Any sign describing a special access parking or park-
ing space may contain on the sign or attached to the sign the amount of the fine for a parking violation for a first offense pursuant to subsection (h). (e) Parking for Disabled Persons. Disabled persons to whom distinctive license plates, decals or placards are issued shall be allowed to park in parking spaces designated for disabled persons. This section does not permit disabled persons to park in zones where stopping, standing or parking is either prohibited or time limited to all vehicles, or which are reserved for special types of vehicles, nor will these provisions apply where there is a local ordinance prohibiting parking during heavy traffic periods or where parking will clearly present a traffic hazard. (f) Prohibited acts. (1) It shall be unlawful for any person who does not have a distinctive special long-term access or long-term disability access license plate or placard or temporary disability placard as provided in §32-6231, Code of Alabama, or who is not transporting a passenger who has a distinctive special long-term access or long-term disability access license plate or placard or temporary disability placard as provided in §32-6231 to park a motor vehicle in a public parking place designated for individuals with disabilities or in a parking space designated for individuals with disabilities at any place of public accommodations, any business or legal entity engaged in interstate commerce or which is subject to any federal or state laws requiring access by individuals with disabilities, any amusement facility or resort or other place to which the general public is invited or solicited, even though located on private property. (2) It shall be unlawful for any person to park a vehicle on access aisles next to an accessible parking space. (3) It shall be unlawful for any person who is not a disabled individual to willfully and falsely represent himself as a disabled person to obtain the distinctive license plate and/or decal or placard or to misuse or abuse the parking privilege protected by this section, or to own a vehicle bearing distinctive license plate and/or decals when not entitled. (4) In any prosecution charging a violation of this section, proof that the vehicle described in the summons or parking ticket was parked in violation of this section, together with proof that the defendant was at the time the registered owner of the vehicle, shall constitute prime facie evidence that the registered owner of the vehicle was the person who committed the violation. (g) Enforcement. This section may be enforced by any law enforcement officer who has successfully complied with the minimum standards for police officers as set forth in §36-21-46, Code of Alabama, including, but not limited to, municipal law enforcement officers, sheriffs, deputy sheriffs and Alabama State Troopers. Any law enforcement officer enforcing this section may ask for verification that either the driver or passenger of the parked vehicle is the lawful holder of a distinctive special long-term access or long-term disability access license plate or placard or temporary disability placard. (h) Penalties. (1) Any person violating this section shall, upon conviction, notwithstanding any other penalty provision which may be authorized or employed, be fined fifty dollars ($50.00) for the first offense, two hundred dollars ($200.00) for the second offense and five hundred dollars ($500.00) for the third or any subsequent offense. In addition, for the second or any subsequent offense under this section, the person shall be ordered by the court to perform a minimum of forty (40) hours of either of the following forms of com-
See Notices, page B11
pelika O Observer
B11 Nov. 20, 2019
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Notices, from B10 munity service: (i) Community service for a nonprofit organization that serves the disabled community or serves persons who have a disabling disease; or (ii) Any other community service that may sensitize the person to the needs and obstacles faced daily by persons who have disabilities. (2) Municipal law enforcement officers, sheriffs, deputy sheriffs and Alabama State Troopers are authorized to have vehicles illegally parked in accessible parking spaces designated for disabled persons towed away and impounded at the owner’s expense. (i) Pari Materia. This section shall be held in pari materia with all other provisions of law relating to special access parking or disability access parking violations. Section 2. Severability Clause. Severability is intended throughout and within the provisions of this section. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this ordinance is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, said holding shall not affect the remaining portions of this ordinance. Section 3. Full Force and Effect. With the exception of the amendment made herein, all other sections and portions of the City Code shall remain in full force and effect. Section 4. Repealer Clause. All former ordinances or parts thereof conflicting or inconsistent with the provisions of this ordinance are repealed. Section 5. Effective Date. This ordinance shall become effective and enforced immediately upon its passage
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and publication as required by law. Section 16-369, as amended herein, shall be codified in the Code of Ordinances of the City of Opelika, Alabama. Section 6. Publication. The City Clerk of the City of Opelika, Alabama is hereby authorized and directed to cause this Ordinance to be published one (1) time in a newspaper of general circulation published in the City of Opelika, Lee County, Alabama. ADOPTED AND APPROVED this the 18 th day of November, 2019. /s/ Eddie Smith PRESIDENT OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OPELIKA, ALABAMA ATTEST: /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK TRANSMITTED TO MAYOR on this the 19th day of November, 2019. /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK ACTION BY MAYOR APPROVED this the 19th day of November, 2019. /s/ Gary Fuller MAYOR ATTEST: /s/ R. G. Shuman CITY CLERK Legal Run 11/20/19
In accordance with ALA. CODE § 10A-1-9.22 (2010 Repl.), notice is hereby given that Guardian Anesthesia Service P.C. (the “Corporation”), was dissolved on November 8th, 2019 by the filing of Articles of Dissolution in the office of the Judge of Probate of Lee County, Alabama. Any persons with claims against the Corporation should send written notice to Anna Funderburk Buckner, 1859 Ogletree Road, Auburn, Alabama 36830. Such claim should set forth the name of the claimant, the address and telephone number of the claimant, the nature of the claim,
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including, but not limited to, all facts supporting the claim and the date such claim arose. Any claim against the Corporation will be barred unless a proceeding to enforce the claim is commenced within two years after the publication of this notice. Legal Run 11/20/19
clothing Akin McQueen Unit# H106 4344 patty lane Pinson,AL,35126 boxes,bags,tables,chairs Thera Charvieve Brooks Unit# D67 840 Twinforks Ave Auburn,AL,36830 boxes,bags,lamps,small furniture Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Legal Run 11/20 & 11/27/19
Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Extra Space Storage 1242 North Dean Road. Auburn AL, 36830 on 12/9/2019 at 1:30 p.m. John Toney Jr Unit# 47 820 N. Gay Street Auburn, AL,36830 king bed, couch, recline, household items, tv, dresser Thera Charvieve Brooks Unit# 510 840 Twinforks Ave Auburn, AL,36830 Couch, chairs, dining set, queen bed, dresser, full bed, dresser, boxes 15, household items Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Legal Run 11/20 & 11/27/19
Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at the location indicated: Extra Space Storage, 1412 Opelika Road, Auburn AL 36830 on 12/09/2019 at 2:00 p.m. Gwendolyn Reeves Heard Unit# A13 1999 Sara Street Auburn,AL,36832 boxes,totes,couches,furniture,
STATE OF ALABAMA CASE NO. 2019-C-62 LEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT ESTATE OF JAMES GORDON BURDETTE, DECEASED NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Letters Testamentary of said James Gordon Burdette, deceased, having been granted to Kristopher Michael Burdette, this 12th day of November, 2019, by the Honorable Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by the law or the same will be barred. Kristopher Michael Burdette, Personal Representative Jeffery A. Hilyer Attorney at Law 334-745-2564 P.O. Box 30 Opelika, Alabama 36803-0030 Legal Run 11/20, 11/27 & 12/04/19
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT ESTATE OF GEORGE A. WELDON COURT OF PROBATE Letters Testamentary of said deceased having been granted to the undersigned on the 14th day of November, 2019, by the Hon. Bill English, Judge of the Probate Court of Lee County, notice is hereby given that all persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the same within time allowed by law or the same will be barred. Witness my hand, and dated this the 14th day of November, 2019. DANNY TYLER WELDON Legal Run 11/20, 11/27 & 12/04/19
IN THE PROBATE COURT OF LEE COUNTY, ALABAMA
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Case No. 2017-A-0235 IN THE MATTER OF: THOMAS J. MITCHELL, JR., An Adult in need of a Conservator. NOTICE OF PARTIAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that Thomas C. Mitchell, Conservator of Thomas J. Mitchell, Jr., 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 Thomas J. Mitchell, Jr. A hearing has been set for the 124h day of December, 2019, at 3:00 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 18th day of November, 2019. Bill English, Judge of Probate Legal Run 11/20, 11/27 & 12/04/19
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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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Like crossword puzzles? Sudoku? Play online at www.opelikaobserver.com/puzzles/
This week’s Scramblers Answers: 1. Order 2. Invent 3. Energy 4. Entire - Today’s Word: INVENTORY
Even Exchange Answers 1. Outfit, Outwit 2. Draft, Drift 3. Menial, Mental 4. Liner, Linen 5. Topic, Tonic
6. Gomez, Gomer 7. Search, Starch 8.Flame, Flake 9. Lotion, Potion 10. Grand, Gland
Opelika, L ee County & A labama Politics Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019
Inside the Statehouse Smiths Station City Council votes John McMillan – a good man as state treasurer to make all city parks tobacco-free
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labama is in good hands with John McMillan. A good man is in the job of State Treasurer of Alabama for the third straight quadrennium. Young Boozer served two successive four-year terms from 2010 to 2018. Mr. Boozer did an excellent job as treasurer. He was perfect for the job. He had been a successful banker. He ran for and did the job for the right reason, not for political gain or prestige, but to do a good job as Alabama’s treasurer. Some folks thought Boozer would make a good choice for higher statewide office. However, he and his wife, Sally, opted to enjoy a relaxed life. McMillan is now doing the job of state treasurer for the very same reason. He, too, could go to the house and enjoy his life but he wants to serve the state he loves. Before being elected state treasurer, he served two consecutive successful fouryear terms as commissioner of agriculture and industries for Alabama from 2010 to 2018. The jobs of agriculture commissioner and treasurer, like all state constitutional offices, are term limited for two four-year terms. McMillan and his wife Kathryn will eventually return to Baldwin County. His family roots run deep in Baldwin County soil. His family were some of the original settlers of the area
By Steve Flowers before the Civil War. They have been in the timber business around Bay Minette for close to a century. Interestingly, Congressman Bradley Byrne, who currently represents Baldwin County, has deep roots in Baldwin County. His folks settled on the Eastern Shore around Fairhope before Alabama was a state in 1819. In fact, McMillan and Byrne are cousins. McMillan grew up in the rural community of Stockton near Bay Minette in Baldwin. He grew up in the county when it was primarily agricultural and was known as Alabama’s potatogrowing county. He graduated from Baldwin County High School. He must have been a pretty good student because after high school he attended and graduated from the prestigious Rhodes College in Memphis where he earned a B.A. in economics. McMillan was appointed to the Baldwin County Commission by Gov. Albert Brewer. After serving on the county commission, McMillan
was elected to the state legislature. He served two terms in the House of Representatives. After the legislature, he was chosen to head the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. During his time as commissioner of conservation, McMillan was instrumental in the creation of the Alabama Trust Fund which preserves revenue from offshore oil and gas leases. He then spent 20 successful years as executive vice president of the Alabama Forestry Association. He was elected agriculture commissioner in 2010 and reelected in 2014. As agriculture commissioner, he oversaw one of the largest departments of state government. He served as president of the Southern Association of State Departments of Agriculture and also on the National Board of Agriculture departments. As is fitting for a former conservation director, McMillan loves hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities. However, he mostly loves his family. He and Kathryn have two sons, William and Murphy. They also have two grandchildren. His most famous relative is his twin brother, Steve McMillan. Rep. Steve McMillan took his twin’s seat in the house from Baldwin County in 1980 when See Flowers, page B14
By Morgan Bryce Editor All parks and athletic facilities within the Smiths Station city limits will be tobaccofree after an ordinance passed by the Smiths Station City Council during their meeting last Tuesday. Those guilty of violating the ordinance will be asked to dispose or refrain from using their tobacco products on first offense. Continued violation will result in being asked to leave the park or facility. “Before, there was smoking and to-
Photo by Morgan Bryce/Opelika Observer bacco use allowed in designated areas, which has resulted in problems and is the reason behind drawing up and passing this ordinance. I hate that is has come to
this, but it has gotten out of control,” said Mayor F.L. “Bubba” Copeland. The council also heard and approved a See Smiths, page B14
Lee County Commission votes to accept EMA Director Kathy Carson’s resignation during last meeting By Opelika Observer Staff The Lee County Commission accepted the resignation letter of Lee County EMA Director Kathy Carson during Tuesday’s meeting. Carson was placed on administrative leave with pay at the end of October, with no specifics given because there was an ongoing investigation at the time, according to County Administrator Roger Rendleman. Her resignation was brought up near the end of the meeting by Commission Chairman and Lee
Photo by Robert Noles/Opelika Observer County Probate Judge Bill English, with the commission voting to accept her resignation. She will receive a severance package.
Following the meeting, Rendleman explained that the investigation was delving into See LCC, page B14
Opelika City Council recognizes November as Epilepsy Awareness Month, issues proclamation By Michelle Key Publisher Mayor Gary Fuller and the Opelika City Council presented a proclammation to Janatuka and Jaevian Holmes recognizing November as Epilsepsy Awareness Month. Jaevian, Janatuka’s 16-year- old son, has epilepsy. Following the meeting, Janatuka distrubuted flyers with information on seizure first aid. Important things to do in the event of a seizure include: - staying with the
person and to start timing the seizure - move the person away from harmful objects in order to keep them safe - turn the person onto their side if they are not awake or aware - do not put anything in their mouth - do not restrain - call 911 if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, if the person is having difficulty breathing, if the seizure occurs in water, if the person is injured, pregnant or sick, if the person does not return to their
Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer usual state of being and if this is the first time they have had a seizure. Also during the meeting, the council voted to susupend the rules of two readings
and voted to amend the city’s handicap parking ordinance after the first reading. According to a press release provided by the city, the purpose of the proposed ordinance is to
bring the city code into compliance with the recent changes to state law. The new ordinance will give police officers the expanded power and authority to enforce handicap parking regulations on private property. Primary changes to the ordinance include: 1. Mandatory minimum fines of $50 for the first offense, $200 for the second offense and $500 for the third or subsequent offense. 2. Mandatory community service of 40 hours for the second and subsequent of-
fense. 3. Authorizing police officers to have vehicles illegally parked in parking spaces designated for disabled persons towed away and impounded at the owner’s expense, even though the parking space is located on private property. 4. Making it unlawful for a person to park a vehicle in the hashmarked or cross-striped space that is directly next to an accessible space designated for the parking of vehicles transporting persons See Opelika, page B14
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Opelika, from B13 with disabilities. In other business, the council: • received the October 2019 monthly building report from City Administrator Joey Motley. According to Motley, there was $14,555,844.70 in building permits issued during the first month of the fiscal year • approved a contract with VSP Vision Care for vision care insurance for city employees • approved the repair of voltage regulators for Opelika Power Services • approved the purchase of one 2020 F-550 Cab and chassis with aerial device from Altec for $135,326 • approved the expense reports from various departments • approved the purchase of two zeroturn mowers for the Parks and Recreation department for a total purchase price of $21,067.88 • approved the purchase of one 2019 ford F-150 Supercab for the public works department for a price of $24,890 • approved the purchase of 624 Toter 96-gallon EVR II carts for the environmental services department the carts will cost the city $31,905.48 • approved the pur-
chase of one Kubota tractor for the public works department at $51,949.74 • approved the purchase of one 2019 Pac-Mac Knuckleboom for the Environmental Services Department - the net cost of the equipment will be $82,950.64 after a $55,000 trade-in allowance • approved the purchase of live-action software and a 3-year maintanence contract totalling $255,937.79 for the IT department • approved a special use permit with Verizon at 269 Lee Road 711 • nominated and approved Rush Denson to fill a vacant position on the Historic Preservation Commission, with his term expiring Aug. 19, 2020 • voted to designate city personal property surplus and to authorize the disposal of said property • voted to designate the controllor for EMMA reporting requirements The Opelika City Council meetings on the first and third Tuesday nights of every month unless otherwise posted. Work sessions begin between 6 and 6:45 p.m. with regular meetings beginning at 7 p.m. Meetings are held at City Hall which is located at 214 7th St. in downtown Opelika. The next scheduled meeting will be Dec. 3.
Smiths, from B13 request for a specialuse permit for modifications to Verizon equipment on an existing cell-phone tower at 31 Grace Road from David Andrews of the Center for Municipal Services.
LCC, from B13 the purchasing of a Polaris all-terrain vehicle worth nearly $25,000 that was purchased with grant money without being properly bid in accordance to state bid laws. Responsibility for paying for the vehicle now falls solely on the county. “It was presented to the commission to be paid by a grant. The concern would be having that item be in question or (up) for a federal review,” Rendleman said. “When we were doing our review, some questions came up about some decisions that were made, not only during the purchase, but after. We looked into it further, and it became very apparent to the commission that we needed to address some issues
“They will remove six antennas from their part of the tower, two from each sector, and replace them with new ones. This will be a capacity upgrade,” Andrews said. In other business, the council: • approved minutes from the Oct. 22 meeting • approved a re-
scheduling of the Dec. 24 regular meeting to Dec. 23 • held a first reading for changes to the city’s business license ordinance. The council will be able to vote on this ordinance at their next meeting on Nov. 24. The Smiths Station City Council meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of each
month, with a work session beginning at 5:30 p.m. E.S.T. and regular meeting at 6 p.m. E.S.T. Their meetings are held in the council chambers of the Smiths Station Government Center which is located at 2336 Lee Road 430. For more information, visit smithsstational.gov or call 334-297-8771.
as far as how things were being handled.” Carson issued a public statement on Wednesday morning, saying how much she enjoyed her role with Lee County EMA the last 10 years and that the future of the organization is on solid footing moving forward. “I appreciate the opportunity I have been afforded to serve the citizens and (first) responders of this community as the Emergency Management Agency Director for the past ten years. Lee County is graced with an amazing group of professionals in Law Enforcement, Fire, EMS/Medical, public works, Auburn University and SUSCC. It has been my privilege to work with each of these individuals and agencies. 2019 has been a tough year for our community but I trust our citizens are in capable hands,
even as I move on to other opportunities.” In other business the commission voted: • to approve the minutes of the commission meeting held Oct. 28 • to ratify and approve claims and procurement card transactions from October • held the first reading of one opening on the Lee County Recreation Board for District 4 - Houston Black has submitted a citizen’s interest form for this position • held a second reading one opening on Beulah Utilities District Board and voted to approve James Majors • heard from fomer commissioner John Andrew Harris. Christopher Davis and Oscar Penn regarding an issue with a Windover Mobile Home Park in Auburn. Several residents from the park
attended the meeting. Commissioner Richard LaGrand offered to attempt to make contact with the owner of the park to discuss the situation • to renew the county engineer’s contract for a term ending May 31, 2025 • to authorize the chairman to sign a letter of intent to apply for the 2020 Rebuild Alabama Act Annual Grant Program to help fund a resurfacing a portion of Lee Road 188 and • discussed and approved several appropriations for the 2020 fiscal year budget. County commission meetings are normally held at 5 p.m. on the second and last Monday nights of every month. Meetings are held in the commission chambers on the second floor of the courthouse annex. One should enter the annex through the entrance on the 10th Street side of the building.
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from B13 John was appointed Conservation Director. Steve has served with distinction in that Baldwin County House seat for more than 38 years. He has been elected to nine four-year terms. Steve is only superseded in Alabama history for legislative longevity by Pete Turnham, Alvin Holmes, Ron Johnson and James Buskey. You can bet your bottom dollar that your money will be safe with John as Treasurer. However, that has not always been the case with treasurers in Alabama history. In
This week’s puzzle answers:
March 1887, Alabama State Treasurer Issac “Honest Ike” Vincent, absconded with more than $225,000 in State funds and fled the state. This was quite a sum of money in 1887. Our fugitive state treasurer was arrested on a train in Big Sandy, Texas and returned to Alabama for trial. Vincent was tried and convicted of embezzlement and sentenced to 15 years in the state penitentiary. 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.